In Memoriam: Klaus Billep of Universal Travel Systems

Long-time travel industry professional Klaus Billep has died in Santa Monica.

Billep, who was the president of international wholesale tour operator Universal Travel System for nearly 47 years, was also an active member in leadership roles with SoCal PATA, So Cal ASTA, the Travelers Century Club and SKAL. Born in Dusseldorf, Germany, Billep moved to the United States in 1950.

As President/Owner of Universal Travel System, Billep—who called himself a specialist in creating "international trips to obscure countries”—arranged group travel to off-the-beaten-path destinations around the world. He was among the first to bring Americans to North Korea, utilizing his extensive contact network to secure visas for the off-limits destination.

Billep preferred to limit group sizes to no more than ten people to ensure an intimate experience and also organized programs to other “obscure” nations, including Iraq and Afghanistan. Often nicknamed “Mr. Travel,” he traveled to more than 150 countries and founded the Travelers Century Club, whose membership is comprised of travelers to a minimum of 100 countries.

"More than anything, TCC is a social group," Billep once said in an interview with CNN. "It started at country clubs in Los Angeles before jets and the ability to get places caused an explosion of travel agents."

His peers at TCC lamented his passing.

"The Travelers' Century Club expresses sorrow and sadness at the news of Klaus's passing,” wrote the TCC board in a statement to TravelPulse. “He was the Club's longest-serving Chairman, and for some thirty years worked tirelessly to expand the Club, and to establish many of the 25 Club chapters across North America and Europe. His energy and humor will be greatly missed.”

Billep was well loved by his travel industry peers, and condolence messages have been pouring in to his Facebook page.

“[Klaus] was a beacon and legend in the industry, PATA Merit Award Winner, SKAL Los Angeles Club President, ASTA Regional Director, Travelers Century Club Chairman/Executive Administrator, amongst many other engagements and accolades,” wrote long-time colleague Jim Ferguson, the former North America director of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA). “Most of all, he was a consummate gentleman and professional...always.”

Peter Semone, the former PATA Vice President, with whom Billep worked closely, wrote, “A lovely and inspirational man. RIP.”

“Like every person touched by Klaus’ sweet heart and lifelong generosity,” wrote Anastasia Mann, CEO of Corniche Entertainment, in a message to Klaus’ wife Stephanie. “I’m stunned and deeply pained by this news. ‘Sadness’ doesn’t begin to touch the feelings. He’s been a mammoth figure in my life for so many years I cannot try to count. A trusted friend. I’m so very sorry. There just are not enough words.”

"Klaus was bigger than life," wrote Simone Bassous, PATA New York Chapter Executive Administrator.

The PATA San Diego Chapter, which Klaus help get started as a satellite of the SoCal LA chapter will be posting a memoriam to Klaus Billep on their website, www.sanpata.org