BusRates.com launched a new and enhanced website aimed at making group travel planning easier than ever. With improved access across a variety of devices, including tablets, smartphones and personal computers, travel planners can contact companies directly through BusRates.com, skip the middleman, avoid price markups typically found with travel brokers and agents and get the information straight from the source.

Owned by the United Motorcoach Association (UMA) and in partnership with the National Tour Association (NTA), BusRates.com offers direct access to more than 8,500 charter and group tour providers, together with hotels, restaurants and related attractions. As the leading resource for consumers seeking group travel information, BusRates.com received more than 1.2 million visits last year and will exceed that figure in 2015, with more than 110,000 hits per month.

BusRates.com now better serves both travel planners and service providers. Social media capabilities have grown to include Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram, Google and Pinterest. Providers can add photos, reviews and multimedia overviews of their offerings. According to Eric Elliott, GM of BusRates.com, the site has improved the way that users access information, while revolutionizing how travel itineraries are created.

“As customers review bus operator listings, the site will provide them with secondary and tertiary options for consideration,” he said. Elliott notes that “once they move to the checkout section of the new and improved site, they will automatically be given additional choices for hotels, restaurants, attractions and events that relate to their destinations of choice.”

The enhanced website also includes an expanded Group Travel Resource section, which serves to educate planners on how to select the best motorcoach operator for their needs and use the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration website. BusRates.com also provides real time tips and tricks to allow users to create the optimal group travel experience. With new and innovative features, BusRates.com’s improved functionality and added resources will be a boon for both travel providers and planners alike.