As an over 60 traveler, many guided tour companies gear their trips toward me and others in my age group. However, this form of travel is growing for all ages and generations! While decades ago I was planning my own trips, I’ll never go back to the stress of making my own itinerary. After traveling to nearly 80 countries on guided tours, I can say for certain this form of travel has made my life so much easier. Considering places to go on your next vacation? Here’s why I highly recommend going guided.
Self-Guided Travel Isn’t Always Ideal
Self-guided travel can definitely create positive memories, but when I look back on some of my travels, I’m glad I’m prioritizing guided tours now. Back when my daughter was just eight years old, we took our first family vacation to Europe. I had meticulously researched and organized the entire trip down to the smallest detail. My husband, daughter, and I had a marvelous time, but I was absolutely exhausted after our 10-day trip.
For my husband’s part, he decided quite early he didn’t like the inconveniences (lack of ice, warm beer, no coffee refills, lack of air conditioning, the list goes on) and preferred to vacation in the US. He shared my spirit of wanderlust, but was content to stay closer to home. So, from then on, we focused on seeing the 50 states. But, I believe he would have enjoyed foreign travel too if we’d had the ease of guided travel.
Why Guided Travel Just Makes Sense
Guided travel isn’t just for older folks and husbands who prioritize convenience. Guided travel is an incredible opportunity for anyone to see the world. Having gone on so many tours myself, here are some of my top benefits of going guided:
Tour Managers Are in the Know
From the time you land at your destination, you’ll have a dedicated tour manager guiding you through the trip. It’s so reassuring to meet a friendly face at the airport! Your tour manager will have a deep knowledge of the destination, as well as the organization and people skills to keep everything running smoothly. Plus, they’re often in the know about some hidden spots and can make recommendations for activities, restaurants, shopping, and even photo backdrops!
Enjoy Hidden Gems and Unique Experiences
The best tours are more than just checking off each city’s most popular sites (though you’ll see the “tourist” spots, too!). Guided travel takes you through some of a country’s best-kept secrets—I might never have gotten the chance to visit the fairytale town of Annecy without Collette’s Peaks of Europe trip! In addition to seeing the hidden gems, you’ll also have access to unique experiences. I’ve taken cooking classes in Tuscany, met the female pearl divers of Jeju Island, and visited Christmas markets throughout Europe, all because of guided travel.
There’s No Stress and No Hassle
The top benefit of guided travel is that there’s no stress! A few years back, I took a trip to Italy with Collette that included all transportation, including a transfer to and from the airport from my home. You’ll have built-in breaks and you don’t have to lift a finger! Sometimes, you even get away without waiting in a long line for attractions since tickets have been purchased in advance. Simply step off the plane, and start exploring!
Visit Places You Didn’t Think Possibl
Think of the places on your bucket list. If you want to visit some less-traveled locales, you might find planning even more difficult. Fortunately, you can see those off-the-beaten path destinations with guided travel. A quick internet search will show you all-inclusive trips to Mongolia, Malta, and Madagascar. I’m so excited for my upcoming trip to Tunisia with Overseas Adventure Travel! If I was going to this country alone, I would need to do tons of extra planning. OAT even has a few solo spots on each trip that don’t incur the single supplement fee!
There’s Safety in Numbers
Solo travelers, especially women, need to be extra careful while traveling. Traveling with a guided tour is a great way to feel a little more secure on your trip. After all, knowing that the tour manager is expecting you for all the activities is quite a safety net! Your manager will have safety advice and can help you if there’s ever a problem. I love the idea of traveling “solo-ish” with G Adventures, which allows a whole group of solo travelers to come together and see the world safely.
You Still Have Plenty of Free Time
Guided travel doesn’t mean you’ll miss out on free time! Most trips have a good balance of planned activities and time to yourself. Depending on where you go (and which vendor you book with), you may have more or less free time, so make sure to note it during the booking process!
Perfect for Solo Travel or Group Trips
Guided tours have been incredible for me as a solo traveler, but they’re also great for mother daughter travel, girls trips, and family getaways. After my husband passed, my daughter and I set off to Spain, Portugal, and Morocco with the help of a travel agency. It was 100% stress-free, well organized, and such carefree fun that I knew guided travel was the only way for me to enjoy travel in the future!
Start Seeing the World with Guided Travel
With guided travel, you can have a remarkable trip without worrying about the logistics. While these trips might be “go, go, go” and a bit tiring at times, you can take a nap when you get home! I’ve made so many cherished memories on guided tours, and I hope you’ll take the plunge and book with one of my favorites—Collette, G Adventures, or Overseas Adventure Travel. Let them know I sent you, and let me know how your trip went on Instagram!