Extra Touch Tours

Based in Sioux City, Iowa, Extra Touch Tours operates as a specialized tour operator with a clear focus on personally escorted group travel. Founded in 1994 by Wilfred and Harriet Clevenger, the business maintains its family-run ethos, now managed by their daughter Rhonda and her husband Todd Moss. This company distinguishes itself with a specific service promise encapsulated in its slogan: "We don't send you on vacation. WE TAKE YOU!" This philosophy underpins their entire business model, which is geared towards travelers who prioritize convenience, security, and a communal travel experience over independent, self-planned trips.

Service Model and Offerings

Extra Touch Tours functions primarily by creating and managing complete vacation packages. Their core product is the escorted tours format, where one or both of the owners accompany the group from start to finish. This hands-on approach is their main selling point, aiming to remove the complexities and stresses of travel planning services for their clients. The packages are comprehensive, typically including transportation (often motorcoach for domestic trips), lodging, baggage handling, admission to attractions listed in the itinerary, and the services of local guides. This structure is particularly appealing to a demographic that may be less inclined to manage online bookings, complex logistics, or navigating unfamiliar destinations alone.

The range of destinations is broad, covering both domestic and international locations. Their offerings show a mix of classic American bus tours to destinations like Alaska, as well as international cruises and land tours to places such as Costa Rica, Switzerland, and the Mediterranean. The company partners with established cruise lines like Princess Cruises and Emerald Cruises for their sea-based journeys, leveraging the infrastructure of larger providers while adding their layer of personal hosting. This hybrid approach allows them to offer complex international itineraries without needing a massive operational footprint.

The Positive Aspects: The "Extra Touch"

The primary advantage of traveling with this agency is the high level of personal involvement from the owners. Todd and Rhonda Moss are not just administrators; they are the tour hosts. Todd's background as an architect is noted as bringing a unique perspective to the historical and cultural aspects of the destinations. This direct owner involvement fosters a strong sense of accountability and a personal relationship with travelers, a factor repeatedly highlighted in their business philosophy. For many, especially solo travelers or those new to international travel, having a familiar, responsible party present throughout the journey is a significant benefit.

• All-Inclusive Convenience: The structure of their all-inclusive packages simplifies the travel process immensely. Clients pay a single price that covers the majority of their expenses, eliminating the need to coordinate separate bookings for hotels, transport, and tours. This is a major draw for those seeking a hassle-free experience.
• Social Environment: As a provider of group travel, the company facilitates a social atmosphere. Travelers share experiences with like-minded individuals, often forming friendships during the trip. This communal aspect is a core part of the appeal for their target audience, which often includes retirees and adults in the 50-75 age range.
• Curated Itineraries: The itineraries are pre-planned to include key highlights and sightseeing tours. This saves travelers countless hours of research and ensures they experience the most significant attractions at each stop. The inclusion of local step-on guides further enriches the experience with specialized knowledge.

Points for Consideration: Potential Drawbacks

While the escorted tour model offers many benefits, it also comes with inherent limitations that may not suit every traveler. Objectivity requires acknowledging these aspects so potential customers can make an informed decision.

• Pace and Flexibility: Group tours operate on a fixed schedule. Itineraries are often packed to maximize sightseeing opportunities, which can result in early start times and a brisk pace. There is limited room for spontaneity or lingering in a place that particularly interests an individual. While the company mentions there is time to relax or pursue personal interests, the fundamental structure is predetermined.
• Group Dynamics: The social aspect of group travel can be a double-edged sword. While many enjoy the camaraderie, a negative experience with other group members can impact the overall enjoyment of the trip. Travelers must be comfortable sharing their vacation experience with a diverse set of personalities.
• Cost Comparison: The upfront cost of an escorted tour can appear higher than booking a trip independently. The price reflects the convenience of having all arrangements made, the cost of the tour hosts, and the logistical overhead. A budget-conscious traveler willing to invest significant time in planning could likely arrange a similar trip for less. However, it is important to factor in the value of the included services, such as baggage handling and guided tours, when making a comparison.
• Business Structure and Accreditation: The company maintains a deliberately small, hands-on structure, which is a key part of its appeal. However, prospective clients should note that Extra Touch Tours is not an accredited business with the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and the BBB states it does not have sufficient information to issue a rating. This is not inherently negative, as many small businesses do not pursue accreditation, but it is a point of information for consumers who rely on BBB ratings for assurance.
• Cancellation Policies: As is standard in the industry, their cancellation policies require careful review. Deposits are noted as non-refundable, and all cancellation requests must be made in writing. The company strongly recommends the purchase of travel protection, which is a crucial consideration for anyone booking a high-value trip, as unforeseen circumstances could lead to financial loss without it.

Recent Developments and Business Direction

Recently, Extra Touch Tours announced a partnership with Allied Tour & Travel, another family-owned business. According to the company, this collaboration is intended to expand the number of available tours and allow the Mosses more personal time, while assuring customers that the core experience—the name, logo, and personally hosted tours—will remain unchanged. This move suggests a strategy for sustainable growth, allowing them to offer a wider variety of customized trips and destinations without diluting their core value proposition of personal service.

Conclusion

Extra Touch Tours is a niche travel agency that has carved out a specific identity in the tourism market. It is not a booking agent for the independent traveler but a dedicated tour operator for those who value structure, service, and a shared experience. The ideal customer is someone who wants to see the world without the burden of planning and prefers the security and companionship of a group led by experienced hosts. The strengths of the company lie in its family-run, high-touch service model. The potential drawbacks are those inherent to the escorted tour format itself: a lack of flexibility and a structured pace. For travelers in Siouxland and beyond whose preferences align with this model, Extra Touch Tours offers a well-defined and personable option for their travel needs.