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Preservation Over Pictures: Why Protecting Heritage Sites Matters More Than Ever
🇲🇽 Latest Update — Nohoch Mul pyramid at Cobá archaeological site Reopened (But With Mixed Emotions). As I read the announcement, I felt conflicting emotions. On one hand, yes, it’s incredible to offer travelers the chance to climb and admire a jungle-covered pyramid from the top. On the other hand, these monuments were never built as tourist attractions.
Ray Gudrups
3 days ago5 min read


The Travel Industry Has a Quality Problem. Nobody Wants to Admit It
The travel industry has a quality problem — and it’s getting worse. Not because people don’t care. Not because agencies aren’t trying.
But because so many operators are building products on foundations that are weak, generic, or unverified.
And the pressure to keep up with trends, compete on price, and produce itineraries quickly is only making the problem louder.
Ray Gudrups
6 days ago4 min read


Why 2026–2035 Could Be the Golden Era for Niche Travel Agencies
“Everything-for-everyone” agencies are being overtaken by leaner, more specialized competitors.
But one segment is entering its most powerful decade yet:
Niche travel agencies.Small to medium operators with specific expertise, cultural depth, and hyper-relevant offers.
And the data is clear: 2026–2035 is shaping up to be a golden era for niche travel agencies. Here is why.
Ray Gudrups
Dec 34 min read


5 Mexico Tour Planning Mistakes Agencies Make (And How to Avoid Them)
consulting, and helping agencies build itineraries across dozens of Mexican regions, I see the same mistakes repeated again and again—especially by small and medium-size travel companies expanding internationally.
Here are the five biggest “Mexico tour planning mistakes” agencies make
Ray Gudrups
Dec 23 min read


Could Machu Picchu Lose Its Status? Why It is at Risk — And What It Means for Global Tourism
UNESCO has repeatedly warned Peru that Machu Picchu risks being added to the “World Heritage in Danger” list — the final step before losing its protected status.
The question is no longer if the site is at risk. The question is how close we are to crossing the line.
Let’s break down why this is happening, what could come next, and what Machu Picchu tells us about the future of global tourism.
Ray Gudrups
Nov 273 min read


Mexico local tourism costs: Why Remote Travel Is Pricier—But Worth It
After years of guiding travelers through Mexico—both the polished, world-famous hotspots and the hidden, rural corners—I've learned one truth: running tours in Tulum or Cancún is one thing. Running tours in remote, local communities is an entirely different operation.
And the difference isn’t just about vibe or atmosphere—it’s about cost, logistics, responsibility, and the kind of travel you want to provide.
Let me explain from firsthand experience.
Ray Gudrups
Nov 183 min read


Black Friday for Tour Operators: How to Create Irresistible Offers That Don't Hurt Your Margins
For travel brands—agencies, operators, guides—it's a golden opportunity to boost bookings, raise visibility, and lock in clients early. But mismanaged, it can erode margins, attract bargain hunters, and devalue your product. Here’s how to run strong Black Friday tour offers that sell smart—not cheap.
Ray Gudrups
Oct 164 min read


Case Study: How International Agencies Use Local Guides Partnership Scaled by Partnering with Local Mexican Guides
In Mexico’s competitive travel market, the difference between a tour and an unforgettable experience often comes down to one thing—local insight. Two international agencies, Viajero Mexico and Rutopía, have demonstrated how working hand-in-hand with local Mexican guides can become a long-term growth engine, driving both business scale and cultural authenticity.
Their success stories highlight what many B2B travel entrepreneurs still underestimate: partnering with local exper
Ray Gudrups
Oct 163 min read


Finding Reliable Local Partners: A Consultant’s Guide to Mexico’s Regional Networks
Why Reliable Local Partners Are Vital for Mexico Tour Operators
If you're building or scaling tour offerings in Mexico, especially outside the coastal hotspots, nothing matters more than solid local partners. They’re the bridges to logistics, culture, authenticity, and sustainable operations. Without them, tours can fall apart — delays, misunderstandings, and reputational hits are very real risks.
Ray Gudrups
Oct 165 min read
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