Casas Cantabricas

Association of Independent Tour Operators

Casas Cantabricas is a member of AITO, the Association of Independent Tour Operators. Established in 1976, the AITO symbol has become the hallmark of good holidays from specialist tour operators. All AITO companies are fully bonded and governed by AITO's independent dispute settlement service, which means you are in safe hands when you book with an AITO member.

The common aim of AITO members is to provide an attractive alternative to mass-market holidays, combining high standards backed up with a more knowledgeable personal and caring service.

The new responsible tourism initiative being developed by AITO through its member companies aims to highlight the environmental, cultural and community impacts of tourism. It encourages tour-operating companies to develop initiatives to respect and foster culture, protect environment and ensure that benefits from tourism reach the local economy. Casas Cantabricas strongly supports this programme.

Rural tourism provides an increasingly important source of income in our regions, while agriculture continues to receive reduced support. We have always worked directly with our local property owners and with local businesses, from restaurants and shops through to builders and plumbers.

We provide as much information as possible on our areas and produce a regularly updated "Good Food" guide to many of the smaller local village restaurants throughout the region.

AITO is an association of small to medium sized tour operating companies, all independent of the vertically integrated groups within the industry.

Accurate Brochures

All members ensure that their brochures clearly and accurately describe the holidays and services offered.

Professional Service

All members are committed to high standards of personal service, maintained by the thorough training of employees.

Product Improvements

All members listen to their customers and welcome suggestions for improving standards. All customers receive a post-holiday questionnaire.

Financial Security

AITO takes care to ensure that all members comply with current UK Government Regulations regarding the protection of clients' money.

Exclusive Membership

AITO has strict membership criteria, which must be satisfied before new companies are allowed to join. All members must adhere to a rigorous Code of Business Practice, which governs their operational conduct.

Responsible Tourism

All members are committed to AITO's responsible tourism guidelines which recognise the tour operator's social and environmental responsibilities.

FINALLY, in the unlikely event that a dispute between an AITO member and customer cannot be resolved amicably, AITO's low-cost Independent Dispute Settlement Service may be called upon by either side to bring the matter to a speedy and binding conclusion.

THE ASSOCIATION OF INDEPENDENT TOUR OPERATORS