Making sure you book the right tour for a trip can be a difficult task. Once you’ve made that decision to go on a tour, there’s a lot more decision making that comes with booking the right one. Not only does it depend on where you’re going, your budget, how much time you have, and whether or not you want to do group travel, you also have to decide which tour is best for you once you arrive at your destination:
1.) How long do you want to go for?
Trips can last anywhere from a few days to a few months. This will be a key factor in choosing the right tour, as you need to make sure you can fit it into your travel plan. Consider the fact that while your itinerary includes all there is to see, will it be exhausting to do so much in a week? Similarly, do you really need a month to see the Great Wall of China, or do you just want to spend some time there and that’s it? Some trips also only depart certain times of the year, so keep that in mind when planning.
2.) How much are you willing to spend?
Some tours can cost a lot of money, but there’s also tours that are designed for budget-minded travelers. You also have to consider how much of the trip you need help with, and how much you can do yourself. Some tours include everything from airfare, to pick-up, accommodation, and meals. Others just help you organize a homestay or to get from point a to point b.
3.) How much free time do you want?
Do you want to be with your group at all times to fight the fear of traveling alone? (Which is totally okay). Or, would you prefer to have some time to yourself to explore the city and privately reflect on your day? Do you like a tour that plans everything for you so you never get bored, or will you feel exhausted after doing so many things in one day? Consider these things.
4.) What kind of trip do you want?
Do you want to party, or do you want to delve deeply into a new culture? Do you want be an adrenaline junky, or are you just a backpacker looking to explore? There’s so many different kinds of trips out there that are specific to your interests, some that also help you combine all your hobbies into one whole adventure.
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5.) Is there any flexibility?
Perhaps you want to extend your trip after your tour ends, or perhaps you’re already in the city and you just want something to do. Is the tour strict in the sense that your entire trip revolves around it, or are you able to just kind of jump ship after it’s over? Make your choice before you book a tour.
6.) Do you want to go with anyone?
Do you want to travel solo, or do you want to meet people? Are you bringing your family along and you want to be with other families, or you and your new spouse looking to meet other young couples? Do you want a private tour where you can have some romance, or do you want to meet friends that can last a lifetime? That’s all up to you. Keep in mind, group travel can have its moments, as does solo travel. Think about the pros and cons.
There’s tours out there for everyone-this is how to make sure you book the right one.
Author’s Bio: Hana LaRock is originally from New York, though has called other places around the world her home for the last two years. She currently lives in South Korea as an English teacher and freelance travel writer. When she’s not working, she enjoys writing, reading, spending time with her dog, and of course, traveling. You can find her at www.hanalarockwriting.com.
