Group Tour Operators

According to the United States Tour Operators Association, there are four different types of group tours. These tours include: escorted, package, independent and charter. Each of these tour types has its advantages and disadvantages. When planning group travel, it's important to consider your options before putting down any deposit money or holding fees.

Escorted tours are very popular for students and people with special interests. Escorted tours typically take place on boats, buses, or trains. One of the main things to look for in an escorted tour is a knowledgeable and approachable tour guide. Most tours include meals and lodging as part of the base price. When searching for the right escorted tour, it's always a good idea to inquire about the amount of free time available to group member as well.

Popular Tour Packages

Tour packages are also quite popular with groups. Most tour packages include airfare and lodging. Unlike the escorted tour, packages tend to include more free time for individual travelers. It's always a good idea to shop for a tour package that offers a number of different daily activities to choose from.

Those people who like to travel independent of a group, but want to reap the benefits of group pricing, might want to consider booking independent tours. These tours are customized to meet individual needs and desires. Many people prefer these tours for their flexibility in booking. Some tour operators also offer chartered trips to popular tourists destinations. Chartered private planes are much more affordable than you might think, and they add flexibility to any flight schedule.