Know thyself
Experts agree that there are pros and cons with every tour company. It’s important to find a match to your own personal travel style and goals.
“Understanding what kind of traveler you are is a good first step to choosing a tour company,” says Terry Dale, president and CEO, United States Tour Operators Association.
Consider basic factors first. Where do you want to go?
“Begin by dreaming big and researching your ideal destinations,” advises Katy Rockett, regional director for North America at Explore Worldwide, specializing in small-group adventure travel with more than 350 trips in around 100 countries. “Whether you’re drawn to remote trails or bustling city streets, start by pinpointing where you want to go and how you want to explore — by bike, foot, or bus.”
Decide when do you want to go and how much time you have. Next, what’s your budget and what are your expectations when it comes to inclusions?
“Meals, transfers, and excursions can all add up quickly,” Rockett says, “Although the ‘starting from’ price might be low, when you factor in these other expenses it can vastly change your trip price.”
What are your expectations in terms of accommodations?
“It’s important to research the type of hotels and accommodations each company offers — and to decide if these accommodations align with your travel style,” says FitzGerald. “Is luxury and a 5-star experience important to you? Or are you minimalist? Are you looking for large hotels, or smaller inns?”
Travelers should find details about accommodations — types of hotels, levels of service, location and more — on tour operator websites. “While it may not be the primary reason for choosing a certain company, it can be a deciding factor,” says Dale.
And then consider other factors. Do you want to travel with a group that’s exclusive to Americans or also open to international travelers? Do you want to focus on one region or include a variety of destinations? Is the age demographics of the group important to you? Do you want to relax and unwind, explore new cultures and connect with locals, or learn something new? And do the tour operation and style of travel align with your values?
“You’re investing valuable time and money into the experience, so it’s important to know how that will be spent in the destination,” says Rockett. “Responsibility towards the world around us — both at home and abroad — varies from company to company and person to person, so be sure to choose one that aligns with you.”
Transparency before booking is critical. “A reputable company will provide detailed information about your itinerary, excursions, and meals prior to booking,” says Rockett. “This often comes in the form of detailed trip notes and day-by-day breakdowns.”
Size matters
Preferred group size is a personal choice. “There are tour companies that have thrived for decades in bringing groups of 40 people to places around the world and have a loyal clientele who love the camaraderie of traveling with a community of new friends,” says Dale.
But the growing trend is toward small group touring, in groups of eight, 12, or 20 passengers.
“In general, the smaller the group, the easier time you’ll have getting around a country, making it easier to access remote areas or engage in activities that might not be possible in larger groups,” says Rockett.
FitzGerald agrees, “It’s hard to pinpoint a specific group size and it depends on an individual’s preference, but I recommend you find a group size that provides the ability to blend in unobtrusively with local life; connect with locals; access off-the-beaten-path locations and ports; and form connections with fellow travelers.”
FitzGerald also believes that smaller groups often allow for more personalized service.
Let them be your guide
The right guide can make or break a trip, transforming a tour from good to unforgettable. “Tour guides play a pivotal role in shaping your travel experience, often turning a good trip into an unforgettable one,” says FitzGerald. “The best tour guides — we refer to our guides as trip experience leaders — not only share their local knowledge and expertise, but they are excellent problem solvers and planners. They predict needs before they are even realized. They provide personalized attention to their travelers, and recommendations for free time. They will take you beyond the touristy sites and immerse you in the culture. They are enthusiastic, passionate, and bring the group together.”
Not only can guides ensure that a trip goes smoothly and safely, but they can significantly enhance your travel experience. “Our guides are chosen for their expertise and passion for sharing their knowledge,” says Rockett. “They are not just tour leaders but ambassadors of culture and history, eager to introduce you to local customs, hidden spots, and insider tips.”
When selecting a tour company, ask about the guide(s) who will be leading the trip. Are they local? What’s their background and experience? What do past tour participants say about them?
Flexibility is key
All companies are different when it comes to organized activities, so if you like a mix of included tours and free time, research that in advance, advises FitzGerald. “Many companies offer included tours and activities, but you aren’t forced to participate in everything,” FitzGerald says. “The best itineraries offer a blend of included features, and time to pursue your own interests.”
While you should feel confident of knowing where you’re going and when, and most companies strive to stick with the original plan, a trend toward more open-ended itineraries is emerging in group travel.
“Tour operators today are increasingly adding more flexibility and free time to itineraries to better accommodate individual traveler’s different needs,” says Dale. “This could come in the form of choice activities, fewer group meals, or added free time for guests to explore on their own.”
Going solo
Group tours are a great option for solo travelers, providing detailed plans, a guide for support, and the freedom to join the group or spend time on your own. It’s often an ideal way for solos to travel, without going it alone.
“Look for a tour that is designed to foster a sense of community among travelers,” advises FitzGerald. “Many of our solo travelers at O.A.T. share that they have formed lasting friendships with others in their group, often traveling with people they meet on future trips.”
Rockett advises asking tour operators ahead of time to share details on the breakdown of the group — the number of couples versus solo travelers, for example, and the age range of the group.
Also beware of companies charging extra for solo supplements and single rooms. Look for companies that waive the solo supplement or provide shared rooms.
In summary: dream big, ask questions, look for a company that aligns with your travel goals and values — and have fun!
Diane Bair and Pamela Wright can be reached at bairwright@gmail.com
