Pre-Trip Tour Reviews

When I decided to embark on this little adventure, I knew immediately that I wanted to do some guided tours.  I know some people would prefer to do their own thing for less money but I decided it was the best choice for me for the following reasons:

1.       Less hassle – I let the tour take care of most of the transportation and lodging while still getting to see much of what I want to see. 

2.      More security – Even though I am going it alone, it’s nice to know that someone would notice if I don’t show up for the bus the next morning. 

3.      Friendliness – I like having others to talk with and enjoy a meal with so this is the perfect way to get the exact amount of face time with other human beings as I want. 

I have ended up booking with Globus for all Europe since I had travelled with them before and was pleased.  I ended up changing to Trafalgar for Greece & Turkey because they could guarantee my departure.   I booked with China Focus at first but then changed to Gap Adventures for a guaranteed departure.  Here are a few other comments about each  group that I have experienced so far:

·        Globus – My old standard, tried and true so far.  I have travelled with them in Italy and across Europe last year and was very pleased with them.  They offer a variety of tours and return customer discounts.  The downside is they don’t offer many guaranteed departures.  My friends just got their Ireland trip cancelled through Globus for lack of travelers.   They don’t have a message board and typically cater to an older crowd (40+.) 

·        Trafalgar – Very much like Globus in they have a variety of tours including many with guaranteed departures which is a big plus.  They offer Early Express Check in which involves entering your passport information and emergency contact information online before you leave.   I am anxious to see how the trip fills out diversity wise. 

·        Gap Adventures – A little rougher around the edges when it comes to tours.  More physical options are available which indicates to me probably a younger crowd.  GREAT message board.  I am already talking to a fellow traveler for the China trip.   They are a foreign company so you are charged a foreign transaction fee on your credit card when you pay for it. 

·        China Focus – Seemed to be a great value for the money but couldn’t guarantee my departure.  One drawback is you cannot book online. 

I will of course post my thoughts of the tours after I am done with each of them.