Travel Tips & Trends

Escorted tours: myth vs. reality

Escorted tours have an unflattering image for some. In large part, that image can be traced to the 1969 film "If It's Tuesday, It Must Be Belgium," about vacationers on a whirlwind tour of Europe. Nearly 40 years later, a fresh look at escorted tours is long overdue.

Myth: You'll only get a superficial overview of the destination.
Reality: A good tour operator knows the destination far better than a first-time visitor possibly can, and delivers a more in-depth experience than most people could arrange on their own. They can arrange cultural experiences that aren't available to the average traveler—a cooking class by a local chef, or a private lecture by a nationally—known expert.

Myth: There's no free time.
Reality: Today's escorted packages are moderately paced and typically feature multiple-night stays in key locations. Most allow time to explore on your own.

Myth: Escorted tours are for timid travelers.
Reality: The options have exploded in recent years. Bicycling in the South of France, safaris in Africa, heli-hiking the Canadian Rockies, or exploring the temples of Angkor in Cambodia-tours attract travelers of all ages, interests and lifestyles.

Myth: Cheap, cramped buses.
Reality: Many modes of transportation are used, from luxury riverboats to private trains. If motorcoaches are used, they typically have plush reclining seats, video monitors, onboard washrooms and more.

To learn more about escorted tours available through AAA, contact your AAA Travel professional.