How to Evaluate and Choose a Small Group Tour

Traveling can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life. It offers adventure, new experiences, and the chance to discover new places that you've dreamed about. If you are not comfortable with planning your own trips, or you're hesitant to travel solo, a small group tour can be the best option. However, choosing the travel company that is right for you can be a daunting task, given all of the available options. In this post, we will explore ways to evaluate small group travel tours, ensuring you make the best choice for your next adventure.

Understand Your Travel Needs and Goals

Before diving into the details of specific tours, it is essential to understand your travel goals. Most people who don't want to travel solo, look for a tour that will enable them to meet like-minded travelers and share the experience with a group.

• Size of Tour: The larger the tour, the cheaper your price will be, but understand the differences that a small group tour (less than 15 travelers) vs. a larger group (25 or more) will deliver in terms of experiences. With a larger group, you are more likely to travel by motorcoach. This will limit opportunities for imprompu stops, itinerary changes or more authentic interactions with locals. Meals with the entire group will be at large restaurants designed to accommodate tourist groups so expect the food to be...average. Tours with 15 or less people give you a better chance to make stronger connections with fellow travelers, get to know your guide better and eat meals at more local restaurants recommended by the guide.

  
  

• Like-Minded Travelers: Before booking, ask the tour company about their clientele, e.g. average age, how budget-minded they are, and if they tend to have an active and independent mindset. Have a specific tour in mind when you ask these questions. Ideally, you'll want a wide range of ages on the tour to provide a mix of perspectives. The most recent ones I've been on typically ranged from 30 to 70 years of age.

• Fitness requirements: Many tours will give you details on level of fitness required as it relates to hiking or walking, while others are less specific. If your tour includes travel by local trains and buses, be prepared to lift your suitcase up and down stairs as escalators can often be out of order. Some hotels do not have elevators so it's yet another reason to pack light.

By clarifying your goals and needs, you can narrow your options and find a tour that aligns with your desires.

Research Tour Companies

Here are some tips for evaluating small group tours if you are unable to get a glowing review from a friend or family member whose travel style aligns with yours.

• Check Credentials & Read Reviews: Ensure the company is licensed and is affiliated with reputable travel organizations. Check platforms like TripAdvisor to see what past travelers say about theim. Before booking, ask the travel provider to give you the names of hotels on the tour so you can research their reviews as well.

  
  

• Hotel Ratings & Solo Supplements: You'll want to know if the tour books you in 3, 4 or 5 star hotels and determine what you prefer and can afford. Knowing if hotels are within walking distance to historic areas, restaurants, shops and public transportation are important factors to consider. If traveling solo, you'll want to know if you have to pay extra for your own room, or if you will be paired with a same sex solo traveler. If you want your own room, book it in advance. Requesting a solo room after the tour starts is highly unlikely to happen, especially in high season.

  
  

Doing thorough research will help you find a reputable company that meets your needs.

Evaluate the Itinerary

The itinerary is one of the most critical aspects of any tour. A well-structured itinerary can make or break your experience. Here are some factors to consider:

• Travel Time: Study the itinerary carefully and understand how long your travel time will be each day. An itinerary may look appealing at a glance, but if there are long hours on a bus and limited time for exploring, you may determine that the pace is not to your liking.

• Flexibity and Free Time:  Are you seeking a highly structured tour, or one that gives you free time to explore on your own? Some tours, particularly the ones with higher price points, will have more tour and meal inclusions while those that are more budget-oriented are likely to provide a few full day or half-days on your own. You'll need to decide if you prefer free time for personal exploration or relaxation, or an action-packed itinerary.

  
  

• Balance: An action-packed itinerary may look appealing at first glance, but be sure to factor in the number of one-night stays and limited downtime, as both can lead to fatigue. Be prepared to add a few extra days onto your trip both before the tour starts and after it ends, as many itineraries do not include sufficient time to see the start and end point cities.

Assess Safety Measures

Safety is a top priority when traveling. Evaluate the safety measures and support that the tour company provides. Here are some questions to ask:

• Emergency Protocols: What procedures are in place in case of an emergency? Many tours will require you to purchase medical emergency insurance and provide your tour leader with that information prior to departure. Be sure to factor that into your budget.

  
  

• Local Guides: Are the guides familiar with the locations on the tour? How often do guides lead the same itinerary each season? Your guide should be able to recommend local restaurants, provide guidance on how to use public transportation, and answer questions you may have about separate excursions on free days.

  
  

Understanding the safety measures will give you peace of mind as you embark on your journey.

Look for Inclusivity

Inclusivity is an essential factor to consider when evaluating travel companies. A good tour should cater to diverse needs and preferences. Here are some aspects to look for:

• Dietary Restrictions: Does the company accommodate special dietary needs?

  
  

• Accessibility: Are the activities and accommodations accessible for everyone?

  
  

• Cultural Sensitivity: Does the company promote respectful interactions with local cultures?

  
  

Let me know if you have questions or comments about small group tours. I'm happy to answer any questions you may have.