Are you bored of feeling like every other tourist in your own travels, sticking to the crowded tourist spots and missing the hidden gems that make a place truly special? If so, you're not alone. But there's a solution that can provide a unique and authentic experience: taking a guided tour. I’ll be demystifying the myths around guided tours, sharing what makes it a unique way to travel and helping you to pick the right adventure for you. So, whether you're a seasoned traveller or a first-timer, read on to discover everything you need to know about the benefits of taking a guided tour.
Perfect for Multi-Generational Groups
Since Covid-19, many of us have realised just how little time we get to spend with our loved ones and want to make every moment count. Guided tours are becoming more popular with multi-generational groups who are looking to explore new destinations, enjoy new experiences and learn about different cultures whilst making memories that will last for a lifetime together. Grandparents, parents, and children of all ages can bond and create memories while discovering new cultures, trying new foods, and participating in activities they may not have considered before.
Whilst I am a fan of multi-generational travel, there are some countries or experiences you’d rather have and enjoy more with those closer to your own age group, I get it! That is why many touring companies also offer packages specifically targeted towards 18-30ish year olds (the cut off age can vary between 29-35, usually). The only group tour I have joined within this age bracket was when I went island hopping around Greece, which you can read more about here… SEAS THE DAY: SARONIC SAILING
Pick Your Adventure
Guided tours offer an exciting way to explore new places and learn about different cultures, but with so many options available, it can be challenging to pick the perfect adventure. Whether you're interested in history, food, or outdoor activities, there's a guided tour out there for you. Here are some things to consider when choosing your guided tour adventure:
First, decide what type of experience you want to have. Do you want to explore a specific city or region, or are you keen to take in as much as possible of a country in one go? Based on your chosen destination, some tours focus on history and architecture, while others may be suited more towards adventures and sports. Consider what interests you and what you want to get out of the guided tour.
Next, think about your travel style. How flexible are you with moving from place to place? Some tours offer a more relaxed pace, while others are more fast-paced and active. Think about what you're comfortable with and what will make the trip enjoyable for you. This includes moving from one accommodation to another for a night or 2 before heading onto the next place.
Another important factor to consider is the group size. Some guided tours are designed for small groups, while others can accommodate larger groups. Do check the maximum number of participants the guided tour allows to gauge how comfortable you will be with a bunch of strangers and the length of the tour too! Don’t forget, if you have a large enough group, you can create your own personalised guided tour too for a more intimate experience without all the hassle of planning every detail yourself!
Finally, consider your budget. Guided tours can vary widely in price, so it's essential to set a budget and stick to it. Be mindful of what is included within the tour price as well - from meals and flights to visas and injections - all these little things add up and each company and tour offers different inclusions. Keep in mind that cheaper tours may not offer the same level of quality and comfort in terms of accommodation and transportation as the more expensive options. Also, remember to keep some extra cash spare for tipping your guide(s) and driver(s) at the end of the tour.
Local Guide and Community Interaction
Joining a guided tour offers in-depth educational opportunities that you would otherwise miss out on if exploring places by yourself. You'll learn about the history, art, culture, and people of the destination in an interactive and engaging way.
By having a local guide accompany you, not only will they share insider knowledge and history about the places you visit. You’ll also be more likely to discover hidden gems that may not be on the typical tourist itinerary. While it's easy to pinpoint the well-known landmarks and snap some photos, a knowledgeable local guide can take you to places you'd never find or perhaps even know about on your own (depending on how much research you do beforehand). These hidden gems could be anything from a secluded beach to a quirky café with the best aesthetics in town. With a guided tour, you'll be able to explore the city's hidden corners and uncover the authentic local experience.
Getting to know the destination through a guided tour can add a layer of meaning to your travels that you might not experience otherwise. Learning directly from locals who are experts in their field can deepen your understanding of the people, customs, and traditions that shape the destination. I found it fascinating listening to the stories about the history, culture and people, which I believe, combined make each destination unique.
So when you're planning your next trip, consider taking a guided tour (even if it’s just a day trip) to discover what makes the destination truly special. Whether it's exploring a museum with a knowledgeable guide, learning about a region's unique cuisine with a local chef, or visiting historical landmarks with a passionate historian, taking a guided tour can be a fantastic way to gain a more profound understanding of the destination you're exploring. And, if you’re anything like me, you'll leave the tour with newfound knowledge and insights that you’ll want to shout about and make sure everyone visits that destination in hope that they will have the same wonderful experience- if not better!
One thing that I must highlight and swayed me to choose specific tours with specific companies, was how tour operators are now placing more emphasis on giving back to the community. How do they do this? By identifying business projects in areas (usually where tourists wouldn’t stop) that are helping to support the local community. For example, in Jordan we visited Beit Khayrat Souf - a women-run café where we got to participate in a cooking class to make a traditional lunch - which we got to eat afterwards, of course!
Most importantly, a great reason to choose a guided tour is… Should something go wrong (though I hope not!), it is also comforting to know that there is someone on hand, whom you can trust to help you in whatever way possible.
Freedom to Enjoy the Experience
Myth: Joining a guided tour means you are always with the group and have no time to explore by yourself at your own pace.
Reality: Taking a guided tour doesn't mean sacrificing your freedom to enjoy the experience. In fact, many guided tours provide a perfect balance of scheduled activities and flexibility, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the destination without feeling rushed or tied to a strict itinerary. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, you'll have the freedom to explore and discover the destination at your own pace. And, as previously mentioned, they can also suggest places for you to visit in your free time according to your interests, whether it's taking you to the best street art in the city or sharing the best place to try some traditional delicacies.
Another benefit of taking a guided tour is that they can often offer activities and experiences that may be difficult to arrange otherwise. For example, a guided tour may provide the opportunity to meet with local artisans, attend special events, or gain access to exclusive areas that might not be available to the general public or could be hard to create an itinerary around by yourself. By taking advantage of these unique opportunities, your time spent in the destination becomes truly unique.
Ideal for Solo Travel
This type of flexibility is especially beneficial for first time solo travellers, who may feel overwhelmed or intimidated by the prospect of navigating a new place on their own. By taking a guided tour, solo travellers can feel confident in their ability to fully experience the destination without worrying about getting lost or missing out on key attractions. Additionally, traveling with a group of like-minded individuals provides a built-in support system and the opportunity to make new connections and friends along the way.
P.S. Did you know there’s a variety of female-only group tours?!
Ultimately, taking a guided tour can result in a more fulfilling travel experience overall. You'll gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the destination and the people who call it home. Don't miss out on the chance to see more in one go and create unforgettable memories. As travel writer Rick Steves says, "A good tour guide brings a destination to life." So why not book a guided tour for your next adventure today?
Do feel free to get in contact with me should you have any questions about the destinations I have visited on a guided tour or if you have further questions about finding the right tour for you.
Happy touring!
Countries I have visited by joining a guided tour: Greece| Italy | Jordan | Belize | Dubai | Malaysia (Borneo)
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