It is no surprise that for many the word “tour” conjures up images of people parading behind a local guide waving a yellow flag. After all, in some countries this type of touring is preferred and commonplace. However, much like selecting a pair of shoes, choosing a tour is all about finding the right fit. What may feel good to your neighbor may not be the right style or size for you.
Firstly, I think it is important to differentiate between a travel experience and a tour. At Swain we ask travelers to decide what type of experience they want to have and then we customize the right itinerary and tour outfits for that individual using the four W’s:

WHO
When booking a tour it is imperative that you consider the demographic of your group. Do you want the participants in your group to be foreigners? Or would you prefer traveling with individuals just from North America? Would you like a young group? Or would you prefer a more mature collection of adults? Are you traveling with a family? Or would you prefer an outlet that does not cater to children? You must research these options thoroughly as it is often the interaction you have with your group that can make or break your vacation. There are a number of travel companies like mine that cater well to families such as Tauck, while AAT Kings, Trafalgar Tours and Insight Vacations are more suitable for mature couples traveling in a group.
Group tours can range in size from semi-private and intimate excursions to large daily bus trips of 40-50. While most people associate private touring with a privileged clientele, individual guides and drivers can often be a more affordable option. Countries such as India and Africa offer a variety of private touring options through small local travel operators. When booking a private tour be sure to do your research beforehand and make your reservations through a reputable company. I recommend Wilderness Safaris and Orient-Express Safaris for Botswana and Canterbury Trails in New Zealand.

WHAT

The type of experience you are looking for weighs heavily on the style and standard of your accommodation. I prefer both authentic and intimate properties that retain the cultural feel of each destination. Today there are a variety of luxury-tented camps that blend into the natural environment without compromising standard hotel luxuries. During my last trip to Thailand I stayed at the Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle, a collection of 15 freestanding tents elevated along a hillside jungle trail overlooking the Ruak River, Burma and the mountains of Laos.

WHERE
While many individuals shy away from travel during the “off-season” or “shoulder season,” I highly recommend researching this option when choosing your holiday destination. Often associated with less desirable weather, the shoulder season in areas such as Australia, Africa and Asia, is typically less expensive, less crowded and offers a variety of activities travelers cannot enjoy during any other time of the year. For example, we recommend that wilderness enthusiasts visit Australia’s Kakadu National Park during the wet season from November to April. Thanks to stunning rain showers, the more than 400 species of birds, 150 species of mammals and 300 species of reptiles come out of hiding, making for some of the best wildlife spotting in the world. The same bodes true for South Africa where spring in the Northern Hemisphere marks the beginning of fall meaning easier access to attractions and landscapes so isolated you feel like the only tourist scouting for lions.
 

WHEN
Timing is another valuable consideration when selecting a tour and more travelers are opting for both structured and independent time in their itineraries.  At Swain we recommend independent travel to all of our clients, whether it be one week before or after a tour, to explore the destination at your own pace. That being said, I believe guided tours are the best to meet fellow travelers and learn about your surroundings. A blending of both is key.

Finally, it is imperative that you find a travel outlet that will assist you during your time overseas. Is there a help line for questions and assistance while traveling? Often more experienced companies will provide their expert advice and services without additional cost.

Email your questions to Ian at: AskIan@swaintours.com

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