If you ever have wondered if you should join a group tour, the answer is yes.
Traveling is not just about checking a box on your bucket list. It’s the experiences, the memories, and the connections made along the way. While solo travel has its benefits – that you can learn more about in my blog post, Party for One – there’s something magical about exploring the world with other adventurers. Companies like Contiki, EF Ultimate Break, and G Adventures have revolutionized group travel, offering curated trips for every style of travel.
You might be asking why you would choose to travel with a group of strangers instead of with loved ones or even solo. As a travel lover, I have found the beauty in every trip I have been on. However, the benefits of group travel have made it one of my favorite ways to see the world.
Built-In Community
The main reason to take a trip with a group tour company is the instant family you become a part of. From the moment you join a tour, you’ll be with people who share your passion for exploration of the world. Group travel brings together a community of like-minded individuals and expands your world just a bit more. Sharing experiences with people from diverse backgrounds builds unique bonds and relationships that traveling solo or with close loved ones can’t replicate.
I have made some of my closest friends on these trips and will even be attending the wedding of a couple I met on a tour in Sweden.
Curated Itineraries
While some individuals thrive on planning and building the perfect itineraries, many can be overwhelmed by the process. Knowing the most important things to see, the best restaurants, or how to get from one place to the next without knowing the local language can be daunting. Group tours offer perfectly planned itineraries filled with the best of each destination. From tourist favorites to local hidden gems off the beaten path, these organizations craft unforgettable journeys.
Whether you want to explore the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu or scuba dive off the Great Barrier Reef before it disappears, every moment of your trip is designed with your safety and enjoyment in mind.
When visiting Norway, our Contiki trip manager took us to the Lillehammer Olympic Village. They had arranged for us to take a bobsleigh ride down the 1994 Winter Olympic track. It was the adrenaline rush of a lifetime, reaching speeds of 100km/hr. It was an unforgettable experience that I never would have done by myself.
Safety and Peace of Mind
When traveling somewhere new, safety is a big priority. Group tours are responsible for the safety and well-being of their travelers. They provide experienced tour guides who are well-versed in local customs, languages, and safety protocols.
When I woke up sick in Italy, my tour guide helped get me to a local hospital, translated for me, and helped me fill my prescription at the local pharmacy. Her support prevented a minor inconvenience from turning into a trip-ending illness.
Additionally, traveling in a group means you are never truly alone. As a practice solo traveler, my parents constantly worry when I am traveling. When I am with a group, it eases their minds. With knowledgeable guides and instant travel buddies, you can feel secure exploring the world.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first adventure, joining a group tour promises a rewarding travel experience that will leave you with cherished memories and lifelong friendships.