Mentor, Ohio – Rustic Pathways, the global leader in student travel, is proud to announce it has been named America’s Best Group Tour Operator 2025 by the prestigious International Travel Awards. This recognition underscores Rustic Pathways’ commitment to delivering transformative, educational, and unforgettable travel experiences for students worldwide.
The International Travel Awards are regarded as one of the most respected accolades in the tourism and hospitality industry. Each year, more than 5,000 leading brands from across the Americas, Europe, Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and Oceania compete, with only the very best recognized. Rustic Pathways’ win highlights its dedication to exceptional service, innovative programming, and meaningful student engagement.
“Being named America’s Best Group Tour Operator is a tremendous honor,” said Kayla Anzalone, Director of Marketing at Rustic Pathways. “This award reflects the passion and hard work of our team, the trust of our school partners, and the adventurous spirit of our student travelers and their families.”
This achievement builds on Rustic Pathways’ more than 40 years of experience creating immersive programs that blend adventure, cultural exchange, service learning, and conservation. Students who travel with Rustic Pathways not only explore the world but also gain real-world skills, global awareness, and lifelong friendships.
Rustic Pathways offers school group travel programs for middle school, high school, and college students, with experiences spanning over 20 countries. Whether it’s tobogganing in the Bavarian Alps, surfing in Portugal, exploring Japan’s cultural hotspots, or protecting endangered sea turtles in the Mediterranean, Rustic Pathways connects students to the world in ways that are both exciting and impactful.
From working alongside conservation scientists to caring for elephants in Thailand, Rustic Pathways’ programs give students opportunities to engage directly with pressing global issues—developing empathy, leadership, and confidence along the way.
Winning the International Travel Award for America’s Best Group Tour Operator reinforces Rustic Pathways’ role as a trusted partner for families and schools, while strengthening its position as an innovator in global education and student travel.
About Rustic Pathways
Founded in 1983, Rustic Pathways is a student travel company that inspires travelers to better know their world by offering a range of student travel, school group travel, and study abroad opportunities. With recognition as one of the world’s most innovative travel companies, Rustic Pathways has become renowned for empowering students to positively impact lives and communities around the world.
More Information
To learn more about Rustic Pathways and its award-winning student travel programs, please visit https://rusticpathways.com/.