Best Member Savings Tour Companies

Stride Editorial Review of 50 Degrees North 50 Degrees North is a niche, independently owned, specialist travel company with the goal of going beyond a simple holiday away. They specialize in travel to Scandinavia, Finland, Iceland, Greenland, the Arctic, the Baltics and Kamchatka. What Makes 50 Degrees North Stand Out? Local expertise Off the beaten path destinations Around the clock support Sustainable travel Everyone on the 50 Degrees North sales staff is Scandinavian so they are experts in the destinations they are helping you travel to. No matter who you talk to, they will have first hand knowledge from the region to help you find the best destinations and trips specifically for you. With their deep knowledge of the region they’ll be able to help craft the exact trip that you are searching for. They know many off the beaten path destinations to help spice up your trip. 50 Degrees North will even keep you updated on events that may impact your stay such as where there might be construction taking place as well as alternative transportation to avoid big crowds. While on your journey they offer around the clock support. Their Norway office provides 24-hour emergency support during your time in the Nordics so if you’ve missed your transportation or have any other inconvenience or questions, they are there to help. One big focus for 50 Degrees North is their focus on sustainable tourism and responsible travel. They have key values that they focus on which includes spreading wealth by promoting less visited destinations and local places, supporting local people and their businesses to ensure socio-economic benefit and sustainability for local communities and respecting the limitations of the destinations by minimising our impact on local nature, wildlife and culture to name a few. Who Will Enjoy Traveling with 50 Degrees North? All ages Experiential travelers 50 Degrees North has a large focus on seeing all the wondrous sites that each destination has to offer. Multiple trips include travel by minivan to each new attraction and site. There is a type of trip for everyone. There’s tours for those that enjoy traveling with a group and experiencing each destination according to a plan. However, there’s also tours for those looking to have more independence as they explore and even drive themselves from one place to the next.  50 Degrees North offers both a more adventurous type of travel and a more relaxing, slow paced type of travel. If you want to go hiking, dog sledding and kayaking to name a few activities. Or if this type of travel isn’t for you, they also offer go sightseeing by boat, minivan or walking tours. Top Destinations 50 Degrees North offers trips to Scandinavia, Finland, Iceland, Greenland, the Arctic, the Baltics and Kamchatka. Whatever the destination, travelers can expect to sightsee extraordinary sites and destinations while also getting their active fix with hiking and exploring. One particularly popular site to see with 50 Degrees North is the northern lights. 50 Degrees North Travel Style Those who choose 50 Degrees North enjoy seeing beautiful sights and partaking in memorable active experiences. These travelers love the unique activities that each destination provides and aren’t afraid to try new things. 50 Degrees North travelers enjoy things like going on a snowmobile, reindeer & husky safari as well as bathing in the thermal hot water of the Khodutka River. Travelers that love doing once in a lifetime activities and seeing the beauty of their new destination would enjoy traveling with 50 Degrees North. Why 50 Degrees North? If you love experiencing new things and doing once in a lifetime activities then traveling with 50 Degrees North is right for you. You love sightseeing but more than that, you enjoy participating in all that each destination has to offer. There is commute time between destinations which often includes days full of driving. If you prefer to be in one spot with little commute time, 50 Degrees North may not be right for you. 50 Degrees North travelers don’t mind the driving time nor do they mind sharing a mini van with a group of others as they travel. It’s worth it to see the great sights and create once in a lifetime memories.

Established in 1999, Say Hueque specializes in providing customized tours to independent travelers throughout Argentina and Chile´s national parks and cities. Offering the low prices that only a local operator can deliver, they focus on providing the best experience in Argentina, Patagonia & South America at an exceptional value. What Makes Say Hueque Stand Out? They offer a comprehensive selection of tailor made trips throughout Argentina, Chile and the surrounding region. From the moment they begin to put together an itinerary, a travel specialist will speak with you to get to know your ideas for the trip. They focus on being flexible, and try to put together a trip that will present the best experience for the group or individual. They personally visit all destinations to ensure knowledge and familiarity with the region. Who Will Enjoy Traveling with Say Hueque? Say Hueque is ideal for active passengers, interested in culture, history, food, and nature. There are trips suitable for all ages and a wide range is always to be found, creating custom family trips that cater to people of all ages, from 5 to 65 years old. Trip budgets vary from solo backpackers looking for hostels to honeymooners who prefer something more luxurious. Top Destinations Popular destinations and experiences include Buenos Aires, Iguazu Falls, Perito Moreno Glacier, hiking in Argentine and Chilean Patagonia, wine tasting in Mendoza, horseback riding at traditional estancias, glacier walks, and much more. Say Hueque Travel Style The Say Hueque Travel Style is about authenticity as well as comfort. Accommodation means much more than just providing a place to sleep. In many cases, it is an essential part of the holiday experience that not only provides comfort and safety, but also a special insight to the local culture. They have established relationships with independent hotel owners and local activity providers to help provide this immersive experience. Why Choose a Tour With Say Hueque? With unrivaled expertise, excellent guides and the best prices, Say Hueque's professional English and Spanish speaking staff will provide you with the best-value, hassle-free travel experience. If you’re looking for a tour operator who has extensive and intimate knowledge of Argentina, Chile & South America, and can craft a trip for you based on your interests, Say Hueque is a great option. Trips cover a wide range of budgets and styles.

  Intrepid Travel - Quick Facts Founded in 1989 No Single Supplement (rare exceptions) Small Groups: max 16 on most trips (10 max during Covid-19) Average Age: 48 Travel Style: Cultural immersion, adventure, overland, sustainable, and active Accommodation Style: Camping, Hostels, 3 /4 star hotels, locally owned Average Tour Price: $2,377 Top Regions: Asia, Africa, Europe, South America Other Brands: Peregrine Commonly compared with G Adventures » Intrepid Travel is all about ‘real life experiences.’ With a name meaning fearless and adventurous, Intrepid offers nothing less than big travel adventures -- such as an 11-day hike through Papua New Guinea. However, Intrepid is broad-based enough to offer varied experiences such as food tours in Greece, complete with a visit to a Kalamata olive grove. What Makes Intrepid Travel Stand Out? Responsible travel Industry experts Authentic experiences Small groups Intrepid believes that with great travel experiences comes great responsibility. They are focused on responsible tourism which includes not only treading lightly but also making a positive impact on the destinations they send travelers to. As a Certified B Corp since 2018, Intrepid donates to grass root projects around the world, are a carbon-neutral business and are committed to animal welfare. Travelers can rest assured when they travel with Intrepid because they will be in the hands of industry experts. Intrepid partners with local leaders to be guides for travelers. This gives travelers first hand experiences from someone who knows the area well. Above all else, Intrepid strives to get its travelers off the beaten path and under the surface of the local culture. To accomplish this, group sizes are small, maximum of 16 on most trips. This allows for more use of local transportation and lodging, along with fostering cultural immersion. Intrepid also employs local English-speaking leaders who act more as a resource for local exploration than do typical ‘guides,’ shepherding groups from one place to another.  Who Will Enjoy Traveling With Intrepid Travel? All ages All types of travelers Cultural enthusiasts Intrepid is one of the early pioneers of the “adventure”-style guided trip. Despite its informal beginnings and emphasis on younger, highly adventurous travelers, Intrepid has expanded to a global company with a broad range of trips to fit all ages. Intrepid divides its small-group trips into three separate styles of travel, all priced accordingly. “Basix,” for budget travelers, keep inclusions to a minimum and offer plenty of free time. “Original” journeys offer more included activities and hotels, while “Comfort” trips offer luxury experiences that include the highest level of included activities and standards of accommodation, as well as roomier vehicles. No matter what kind of traveler you are, there is a style right for your specific desires. The age range on Intrepid tours varies widely from tour to tour, and they are welcoming to all ages. The only exception to this are their 18-29 themed tours which are specifically for that age group.  Intrepid travelers have  a real sense of adventure - whether this means hard adventure, or simply going deeper off the beaten path. Interacting with locals is an important factor when you travel, as is gaining a unique cultural perspective. A sense of fun is also essential, whether it means going out at night with your tour mates, trying new foods, or exploring the local markets. Which is better? Intrepid Travel or G Adventures? Commonly compared, both G Adventures and Intrepid Travel specialize in culturally immersive and off-the-beaten-path experiences. They are top companies to consider if you enjoy local & authetic travel and value having lots of free time during the itinerary. See our ultimate guide to decide which is right for you: Intrepid vs G Adventures, full comparison » Top Destinations Originally focused on small group adventure tours to Asia, Intrepid has expanded rapidly over the years, while maintaining its classic, adventurous, and immersive style. Today Intrepid Travel offers more than 1,000 different experiences in over 100 countries, on all seven continents. Regions with the most trips include Asia, South America, Africa, and Europe. Does Intrepid Travel include flights? While all your internal transportation is taken care of, often utilizing traditiona local methods such as tuk-tuks in Thailand, international flights to and from your home and the tour destination are not included. Their travel specialists can recommend where to look for flights however. Intrepid Travel Style Intrepid enjoys using local, unique forms of transportation. You might find yourself traveling by felucca in Egypt or in a tuk-tuk on the best Thailand tour of your life. Accommodations, which could range from guesthouses to home stays, are also locally owned, allowing a more authentic taste of the region while contributing to the local economy. There are a few broad travel styles to choose from when deciding on an Intrepid tour: 1. Basix - Budget travelers who don’t mind, and in fact prefer, simple accommodations - camping and homestays with basic amenities, and crave a lot of free time for exploring independently will love these tours. Public transportation is used exclusively so pack light! These trips often attract a younger crowd who love the idea of throwing a backpack on, keep plenty of room for the unexpected in their schedule, and allocate their travel funds towards spontaneous bus tickets and street food instead of museum tours and 5 star restaurants. 2. Original - These trips take the backpacker spirit of local immersion, incorporating all the benefits that come with going with a planned itinerary. This style is called “Original” because it’s the type of travel that put Intrepid on the map...pun intended. Accommodations are still simple and budget minded - often homestays are used to give you a true sense of place, personality, and culture. Mostly public transportation is used. 3. Comfort - Intrepid is known for the active adventure style of travel and these trips keep that mentality, with a few more creature comforts thrown into the mix. You can expect higher luxury accommodations that include a wider variety of included amenities, transportation is mostly private, though you can still expect to use some public transport, as is the Intrepid way. More meals are included in the trip price, and more group activities - which means a bit less free time to explore on your own. Why Choose a Tour With Intrepid Travel? Intrepid is a good tour company if you don’t mind foregoing some creature comforts for a truly authentic, local experience. If you enjoy meeting locals when traveling, sampling new and exciting foods, and traveling in mixed-aged groups of 10-16 people, Intrepid could be a good fit for you. It’s important to note, sometimes “ample free time” can be a blessing and a curse. It sounds great on paper, but if you’re looking to maximize your dollar and your vacation time, be sure you understand the implications of having a lot of free time during your itinerary. For some travelers this is an absolute requirement, but for others it can be tough to branch off and explore independently - you also need to make sure you allocate enough travel money for independent meals. The tour leaders are great resources of information for how to spend your free time, but if you like having a full day scheduled from breakfast to dinner, Intrepid may not be the best company for you. Lastly, if sustainable and responsible travel is important to you, Intrepid has poured millions of dollars into local economies, and has a very strong emphasis on responsible travel. So you can feel good knowing that your money helps support some of the innkeepers, vendors, and communities that you’ll meet along the way. Is Intrepid Travel Safe? Yes, Intrepid is a very safe company to travel with and they take the safety of their tour goers very seriously. In response to Covid-19, Intrepid has reduced their group size to an average of 10 people. Their guides have been fully trained on new sanitation requirements and Covid-19 health and safety guidelines. They have also implemented flexible booking options.  General Covid-19 Travel News Some countries are beginning to reopen to international visitors, with entry restrictions, while others have remained closed.  Keep checking back regularly to keep up to date with the frequently changing situation of the coronavirus. Want more information about travel safety and the coronavirus? Read about where it's safe to travel to in 2020 >>

Specializing in small-group, multi-day adventure tours and expeditions, Toronto-based G Adventures has been a pioneer in the field since 1990. Founded by entrepreneur Bruce Poon Tip after a backpacking trip to Asia, the company fosters sustainable and environmentally sound tourism practices -- giving back to the communities they visit -- and considers its business “changing people’s lives,” not just offering a vacation. It’s since grown to become the world’s largest independent adventure travel company, with more than 2,000+ employees, many of them professionally trained guides. What Makes G Adventures Stand Out? Small group size Well-balanced, all encompassing, and adventurous trips Strong engagement with local cultures Emphasis on being a responsible traveler and giving back to the community Trips that are made to be life-changing   G Adventures strives to create unique experiences for its travelers that start even before the trip itself. The company provides trip inspiration through their Looptail blog and you can connect with fellow travelers via the ‘Departure Lounge’, which is part of G’s ‘Watering Hole’ travel forum. Once on your trip, you will meet your ‘CEO’ or ‘Chief Experience Officer’ who is “responsible for enriching your journey, offering local insight, and pursuing great experiences as they happen.” Most groups average around 12 travelers, with a maximum of 16 on most trips. G Adventures has made a concerted effort to expand their offering beyond youth focused adventures, though this remains a core theme. Your Europe River Cruise will be imbued with the same culturally immersive and adventurous touch as your trekking trip through the Himalayas. Who Will Enjoy Traveling With G Adventures? Adventurous-minded and culturally curious people Moderately active people Ages 18-39 (but all ages are welcome) Solo travelers (no single supplement charge!) Those who favor authentic experiences over luxury   If you are the kind of traveler who packs running shoes before dress shoes, hiking attire before dinner attire, and a sense of adventure before playing it safe, then G Adventures is the perfect fit for you. You love engaging with locals, meeting new people, and being spontaneous.  Most G Adventures tours have an active focus - expect to be on the move, packing a lot in. That said they do allot generous free time to explore on your own. There’s a chance you may not see every major tourist attraction in the interest of a more “real” experience. But the nice thing is if a particular site is not on the itinerary, you can use your free time to visit. If you are interested in a tour that plans every part of the itinerary down to the minute, G Adventures will probably not be the best fit for you.  Groups are geographically diverse, with a higher proportion of North Americans than some other operators.  Top Destinations    You can find G Adventures trips to most parts of the globe, including 32 countries in Europe, 25 countries in sub-Saharan Africa, 21 countries in Asia, 10 countries in South America, 12 countries in Central America and the Caribbean, five countries in North Africa and the Mideast, plus the U.S., and Canada. A number of destinations are well off the beaten track, from Sao Tome and Principe in West Africa to Borneo in east Asia to the Maldives in the Indian Ocean and both polar regions. Itineraries often focus on more off the beaten path locations; small towns, remote and rural villages, less touristy districts and sites. G Adventures Travel Style Pricing is competitive (cheaper), largely by using “grassroots” approaches: local transport and a mix of privately-owned accommodations, perhaps including homestays and camping. Efforts are made to focus on authenticity with both culinary choices (locally-owned restaurants) as well as transportation methods. G Adventures truly offers something for everyone. Trip styles include Classic, Active, Rail, YOLO (You Only Live Once - for 18-39’s), National Geographic Journeys, Marine, Family, Local Living, and Private Groups. Classic - Classic trips with G Adventures are designed for independent minded travelers who don’t want to miss anything. This is the perfect choice if you want a balanced mix of classic tourist sights and local cultural experiences. Active - Throwing it back to one of the things G Adventures does best. Kayak, walk, hike, trek; experience your destination through the outdoors. These multi-sport trips are great if you hate standing still and enjoy being out in nature. G Adventures Active tours are ideal for those who are relatively physically fit and like a challenge. Rail - A rail journey is a great way to dial it back. Take it slow and really savor the feeling of the journey. Take iconic routes and enjoy the ride. YOLO - “You only live once” is the acronym, and while G Adventures provides adventurous experiences for all, these trips are specifically designed for 18-39 year olds. Get cheeky, get wild, experience life unfettered, as you explore the culture and the local nightlife. If you have the stamina, these trips are once in a lifetime. Kind of like the age range. National Geographic Journeys - A more premium travel experience, these G Adventures trips, as part of a partnership with National Geographic Expeditions, involve the same culturally immersive approach and knowledgeable guides with an elevated level of accommodations and service. Marine - Love to be out on the water? Let G Adventures cruises take you to the far reaches of the globe via river and ocean. Experience incredible sights above and below the surface. Unpack once and enjoy the escape of being a part of the crew and passengers. Family - Adventure tours aren’t always especially friendly to younger travelers. G Adventures Family Friendly tours make adventure activities accessible for you and your youngsters! Trips often have an educational element, and are designed with multiple ages in mind. Local Living - Get to the heart of it with a homestay. These tours are designed to make you really feel at home and appreciate the feel and rhythm of living like a local. Private Groups - If you and your family, or a group of friends want the fun all to yourself, G Adventures can plan a private group trip just for you. Note: part of the culturally immersive experience when traveling with G Adventures is the use of public transportation. This means carrying your own luggage on buses, trains, etc - sometimes during commute hours! So pack light for your own comfort and the comfort of those around you. Why Choose a Tour With G Adventures? For those travelers seeking an exciting, professionally guided, and culturally immersive travel experience G Adventures is the perfect tour company to consider. Their trips are designed to be as authentic as possible - and they place much emphasis on responsible travel and giving back to local communities - so you’ll know your tourism dollars are going toward meaningful causes. Trips with G Adventures are not luxury by any means. But if unique experiences and active days appeal to you over a fluffy pillow then you’re in the right place. Departures are guaranteed once you’ve paid (barring significant weather or safety issues). And they don’t charge single supplements. In short, G Adventures wants you out there with them. You can find something for everyone at G Adventures; whether that’s sailing down the Danube with a glass of wine in hand, or traipsing through the rainforests of Costa Rica.

With over 47 years of experience with small group adventure travel, Exodus specializes in active cultural, walking & trekking, cycling and responsible wildlife tours. They offer more than 600 itineraries across more than 100 countries. Adventure can take the form of serious and active adventures --  which may involve adrenaline-producing, off-the-beaten-path roughing-it trips to the most remote areas of the world -- or food and wine, premium (five-star), family, or cultural adventures to iconic destinations, which involve more comforts and amenities. What Makes Exodus Stand Out? Exodus understands that new difficulty that comes with traveling during the coronavirus. They are dedicated to offering flexible services so travelers can book with confidence. Travelers can feel safe when planning their next trip with Exodus’s promised refund guarantee, Covid-19 refund commitment and 21-day no fee flexibility. The refund guarantee means that travelers will be refunded if they have to cancel for any reason. This also includes cancellations due to the coronavirus. Travelers can also transfer their trip for free up to 21 days before departure. Creating great and adventurous trips is the top priority for Exodus. They offer many pre-planned tours, but they also work with travelers to add or change existing itineraries or even create one from scratch. This allows travelers to create the perfect trip that fits their travel style, schedule and budget. Exodus is also dedicated to responsible travel in all of their tours. They strive to improve life for the planet, places and people they visit. Instead of meeting the base guidelines for eco-friendly travel, Exodus seeks more ways to leave a positive impact with their trips. This includes economic empowerment for local communities, reducing waste wherever possible and making lower carbon choices for their adventures. Each trip is led by a knowledgeable guide who has extensive past experience which adds benefits to any trip. Before working with Exodus, many guides were professional archaeologists, wildlife guides, overland drivers, mountain leaders, diving and ski specialists as well as mountain bike gurus. Who Will Enjoy Traveling with Exodus? All ages Active travelers Outdoor and nature enthusiasts Exodus travelers are a diverse bunch, and average between 35-65 years of age. However, any age traveler is welcome. Exodus creates great packages and tours for families as well as fully customized trips created from scratch. The Exodus traveler is very active, loves being adventurous, and will be less invested in luxury accommodations or a lot of museum time. You are game for anything, love the travel experience of getting to know a new destination through outdoor adventure, and learning about the culture from local guides and experts. These trips are great for those who already have a base level of physical fitness, and enjoy meeting new physical challenges. Exodus provides physical fitness guides to show how much training you should expect to do prior to departure. Top Destinations Exodus leads 600 + trips spanning all seven continents. From African safaris, to walking and wine in Italy and France to the sun-drenched Croatian coast, to trekking Patagonia, wildlife cruises in the Galapagos and cycling in Vietnam, Exodus has built out their global presence and has active adventures in nearly any destination a traveler could desire. Exodus Travel Style Exodus tours are designed for the active and adventurous traveler. This means that most tours include activities such as walking, cycling and safaris. However, for travelers who enjoy cultural and culinary, there are tours and activities for you as well. Exodus offers cultural trips based around food, festivals or family to name a few. These active adventures vary by way of difficulty from level 1-10, attracting casual cyclists and hikers as well as enthusiasts looking to really push their physical limits.  Travelers can choose from guided groups, private groups, self guided tours or solo traveling. Within each travel style, Exodus offers all the same activities from cycling to wildlife and provides the top itineraries for that specific style to help travelers find what’s best for them. Most accommodations are charming and locally run with 3-4 star ratings. There are some premium departures available as well as unique accommodation experiences whenever possible. Exodus travelers don’t mind the lower level of luxury as the experience and destination is the highest priority. Why Choose a Tour With Exodus? If you love experiencing a new destination whether that’s through the culture, unique wildlife or beautiful outdoors through active and adventurous activities, then Exodus is perfect for you. You love that sense of discovery, of challenging yourself and want to travel responsibly. Exodus offers great tours already fully packaged, but for the traveler that likes more control over their perfect trip, they offer customizable trips. Travelers get to choose not only the destination but each activity they will partake in to perfectly match their travel style and budget.

Why Explore Unforgettable experiences On our trips you'll see a mix of famous sights and hidden gems that others miss, or don't even know about. As travelers, we want to experience a country, not merely observe it. We'll take you closer to the country, its culture and people, often in unscripted, spontaneous, impossible-to-replicate ways. You'll come home having seen and experienced the country in a way that other travelers might never have. Expert local guides As your resident expert, your guide (or tour leader) will use their insider knowledge and local connections to make the most of unexpected opportunities. You might be invited to watch the sunrise from a lighthouse or to join family Diwali celebrations. They'll be on hand to make sure your trip goes smoothly, taking care of logistics. Our tour leaders are all hand-picked and trained by our experienced team to ensure consistently high standards. Small groups Our average group size is just 11; big enough to meet like-minded people but small enough to get to the heart of a destination. All sorts of people travel on our trips; groups are usually a mix of solos, couples and friends. What unites everyone is an adventurous spirit, sense of fun and a desire for real travel experiences. Call us to learn more about the group already booked on a particular trip (age range, solos vs couples etc). Sustainable Travel We're committed to reducing our impact on the planet and working towards a sustainable future. Every single one of our trips now has a carbon label, and we work hard to ensure we have a positive impact on the communities we visit. Accommodation We carefully select our accommodation to give you a comfortable night's sleep in the best possible locations. The places we stay are every bit as important as the sights we visit and the things we do. Wherever possible we choose small, local and family-run properties. Occasionally, when we want to get off the beaten tourist trail, we may stay in more basic accommodation. Choices are based on what’s available in the places we want to stay; we choose the accommodation to suit the itinerary, not the other way around.

Trafalgar is a name many seasoned travelers will recognize. A branch of the Travel Corporation, whose brands all enjoy stellar reputations, Trafalgar has been offering classic and affordable tours for over 70 years. Trafalagar Tours - Quick Facts Founded: in 1947 Group size: Large Groups, between 40-45 people Mode of transportation: Primarily luxury air-conditioned coaches Accommodation style: Unique 3 & 4 star hotels and guest houses Typical age range: 50+ Single travelers welcome (single supplements are required, but often discounted) Average tour price: $3,796 Top Regions: Europe, USA, Canada Related TTC Brands: Insight Vacations, Uniworld, Brendan Vacations What Makes Trafalgar Tours Stand Out? Great value for pricing and inclusions Comfortable, not physically demanding tours Largely focused on cultural immersion  Hand-picked accommodations Strong reputation  Dedicated to responsible tourism - Founding member of TreadRight Foundation Good balance of free time and inclusions   Trafalgar is a group tour operator and one of the world’s most awarded tour companies. With over 70 years of experience, they unlock the best of the world from iconic experiences you’ve always dreamed of to getting to know the locals all while having everything taken care of for you every step of the way.   Tours with Trafalgar are comfortable, not too physically demanding, and offer the opportunity to meet, talk, eat and drink with locals. You’ll get to know chefs, artisans, craftsmen, historians, and farmers as you explore what makes each destination truly special. Trafalgar has a strong reputation, having been around since 1947 - putting them right at the pinnacle of when many premier guided tour companies were established. You’ll meet groups of like minded travelers, enjoy cultural experiences, expertly crafted itineraries with local touches and experiences guides, while traveling in comfort and ease. Who Will Enjoy Traveling With Trafalgar? Older travelers (but all ages are welcome) Families Mid to high range budget travelers Those who enjoy slow-paced itineraries and easy physical activity Those who favor historic sightseeing & cultural immersion over hard core adventure    If you are an active traveler, perhaps recently retired, eager to explore the world in comfort, visiting a nice combination of unique local spots and classic sites, then Trafalgar could be a great choice. Possibly you are new to group tours and packages, having been used to creating your own travel experiences at a younger age - Trafalgar provides the perfect introduction to group tours. You'll have plenty of free time to explore on your own, for shopping, sightseeing, and meals away from the group. Optional excursions are available throughout the itinerary for when you want a bit more structure. Families will also get a lot out of the Trafalgar travel experience. If you're seeking a family vacation and interested in introducing a new generation of travelers to your favorite country - but don’t really have the time or patience to worry about planning out all the logistics - Trafalgar could be a great choice. While they offer many trip styles, suitable for travelers of all ages, their classic touch is popular among older travelers. Classic doesn’t mean old fashioned or tired - simply a bit less on the active adventure and more on the historic sights and cultural experiences. They have a number of family focused tours, as well as tailored trips for special interests. Trafalgar trips are budget friendly, with most trips in middle to low range, including a “Cost Saver” feature that allows you to see more inexpensive trips broken down by ratings and cost clearly. They offer several deals on trips throughout the year. Trafalgar is a British brand, so many of the attendees on your tour will be from the UK.   Top Destinations Europe & the UK USA and Canada Australia & New Zealand Asia South America With Trafalgar, you can find trips to Europe, USA & Canada, South America, Asia, Australia & New Zealand. While the destinations are widespread, Trafalgar trips explore the culture and their highly trained local guides take you to hidden local spots without venturing too far outside the comfort zone. Tours in Europe and the UK are among the most popular itineraries, utlizing guest houses and even castles for accommodation!  Their USA & Canada tours are extremely popular for outdoorsy travelers. National Parks are a common itinerary item, as are trips along the Rocky Mountaineer railroad. In South America, Trafalgar travels to Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Ecuador and Peru. In Africa, they go to Egypt, Morocco, and South Africa. In Asia, it’s Cambodia, China, Japan, Thailand, and Vietnam. And in the Pacific, Trafalgar visits Australia and New Zealand - some trips in this region are more basic when it comes to accommodation so be sure to read the itinerary carefully! Wherever you go, you can expect high quality guides, unique destination-specific accommodations, and smooth travels. They also have a number of religious themed tours, including trips that include excursions to Oberammergau, Bavaria. Once a decade this small town presents a Passion Play, and Trafalgar has had special access since 1970. The next time to experience this unique event is 2020. Trafalgar Travel Style The Trafalgar travel style is all about getting to know the culture through activities and connecting with locals. Their main tagline is “Discover the Good Life”. On Trafalgar tours, you get to experience the real thing in a safe, escorted environment with knowledgeable guides there to help with the language and provide historical and cultural context. "Discovering the Good Life" encompasses perks like skipping lines and private access to classic sites; and unique experiences that bring you to places and among people you’d never have the chance to meet traveling on your own. This kind of travel is local immersion, but not in the same way a 25 year old might interpret that idea. Rather than bunking at hostels, going out late at night, and enjoying potentially questionable street food, you’ll stay in premium, centrally located and culturally significant accommodations - everything from bed and breakfasts in Ireland to hotels right on the banks of Norwegian fjords.   Learn cooking techniques in Italy, enjoy private winery tours at French chateaus, and touring a small olive farm in Spain are just a few examples of the kind of unique travel experiences you can expect with Trafalgar. Groups are large, typically between 40-45 travelers, a max of 52 on trips in the USA and Canada. Primary transportation during the tour is in large coaches, equipped with WiFi (with the exception of Alaska) and featuring large viewing windows - ideal for taking in the scenery as you head to your next spot on the itinerary.   Most meals during Trafalgar tours are included. Trips often include free time during which you can explore on your own, with suggestions from your expert guides. Why Choose a Tour with Trafalgar? Well known company Culturally rich experiences in comfort Many activities included, plus some optional choices All guides are expertly trained Large groups of international travelers Trafalgar has a solid reputation, and they stick to what they’ve done well for over 50 years. They focus on the classics, providing a culturally rich perspective as you meet locals along the way. Their experience has allowed them to cultivate relationships around the world with local businesses - quality control you can trust for every stop along the trip. Niche tours based on specialized interests are also something they are proud to offer. Trafalgar is where you go to have the essentials and logistics take care of seamlessly while you sit back and enjoy. Do note that these tours can be quite large - 40 people traveling together in a tour group can be stifling for some. While they appeal to an older crowd due to their history and recognizable name, Trafalgar has an impressively well integrated social media presence. Trips on their site are accompanied by instagram posts from real travelers who have been on the same tour, using the hashtag #SimplyTrafalgar. Old or young(ish), couple or single, traveling Simply Trafalgar inspires confidence, comfort, and enjoyment.

Qwerty Travel offers unique itineraries throughout Argentina for active travelers. What Makes Them Stand Out? From city packages to classic, to tailor made, they offer countless ways to experience Argentina for international travelers. They have 20 years experience in tourism and strive to provide  unique itinerary ideas and experiences.They are local experts, available to help you plan a trip that you will cherish forever whether it be a cruise to Antarctica or a wine tasting trip through Mendoza. Who Travels With Them? They have several different kinds of trips to experience Argentina, catering to several different kinds of traveler. They would be a great company to use for families or couples. Where Do They Operate? They are primarily focused in Argentina. They have tours to Patagonia as well, and cruises to Antarctica. Why Travel With Them? For new and exciting ways to see classic sites as well as find experiences that have a local feel in Argentina. You can search for a tour by the experience you’re most interested in, from rural countryside exploration and immersion, to wine tasting, to outdoor experiences. For experiencing Argentina on your terms, this is the place to start.

Founded in 1973, Topdeck has been providing fun, adventurous trips around the world for 18-39 for over 40 years. What Makes Topdeck Travel Stand Out? Topdeck tour focuses on providing friendly and authentic guided group tours where like-minded 18-39 year old travelers can have amazing group experiences. There are several trip types to choose from, from camping, to immersive, to multi destination, to sailing. Who Will Enjoy Traveling with Topdeck? Sociable, adventurous, budget conscious 18-39 year olds are the kinds of traveler who will gravitate to Topdeck. Though they offer a few different distinct travel styles, there is definitely a sense of an ongoing party, with travel as the conduit and underlying shared interest. If the idea of being around a group of similarly aged people - many of whom may be exploring internationally for the first or second time - being spontaneous, and meeting locals (often in the environment of bars or clubs) is unappealing, then Topdeck may not be your cup of tea. Introverted travelers, or those for whom an extensively planned itinerary including many museums and historical sites is ideal, may want to hunt around before choosing a Topdeck tour. That is not to dissuade the more observational traveler - who may very well find a group they gel with perfectly on a Topdeck tour. Only to caution that you will be surrounded by several extroverted personalities. The bottom line is if you are game for anything, are traveling on a budget, and don’t mind fairly basic but comfortable accommodations and inexpensive meals - sometimes on the go - then you will enjoy the Topdeck tour experience. Top Destinations Topdeck has tours throughout the world, in Europe, Australia & New Zealand, North America, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. Topdeck Travel Style The Topdeck travel style is tied quite specifically to their audience. These tours are great for youthful and energetic 18-39 year olds looking for a good time and to make new friends. In the interest of keeping their tours affordable, travelers with Topdeck will need to make a few allowances. For example, hostels and hotels may be situated quite far away from the city centers. You can also expect some long travel days. The more of a good sense of humor and adventure you have, the more you’ll enjoy the experience. Why Choose a Tour With Topdeck Feeling the urge to connect with travelers in your age group, have fun, and make lasting friendships? Topdeck has over 40 years of experience in adventure travel, which has helped them create epic low cost trips for 18-30 somethings. These tours are certainly not for those who prefer to take things slow. You will be running around, moving between a lot of places - which in some cases means very long bus rides - going out a lot, meeting new people, and staying active throughout your tour. If your ideal travel experience is more methodical and planned out in nature, Topdeck may not be for you. But if you are an adventurous and social travelers eager to absorb a new culture and make new friends, then hop on board!

Founded in 2006, Look at Egypt Tours provides responsible and sustainable sightseeing tours throughout Egypt. What Makes Them Stand Out? They focus on providing responsible, sustainable travel vacations throughout Egypt and the wider Middle East. Guides are all local, and give a personal glimpse into the country, history, and local life. They also specialize in accessible tourism, providing ways for disabled travelers to also enjoy Egypt. Who Travels With Them? They have tours suitable to every kind of traveler, from families to couples, budget to luxury.  Where Do They Operate? Their tours are focused primarily in Egypt, though wider Middle East tours are offered as well, including Jordan, Dubai, and Morocco.   Why Travel With Them? To see Egypt from multiple angles, assisted by local and knowledgeable guides. You’ll have the chance to stay in local establishments, venture into local communities, as well as hit the amazing tourist sites of Egypt. It’s the perfect way to travel responsibly and still get a well rounded experience.

Founded in 2015, Tourissimo provides a way for travel agents, tour operators, and consumers to craft amazing vacations in Italy. What Makes Tourissimo Stand Out? Tourissmio specializes in creating private, customized active travel experiences throughout Italy. Their tours all include an element of hiking or biking or both, and can either be entirely customized with the help of one of their tour experts or you can join a pre-organized group tour. A sense of true authenticity radiates through when you join a Tourissimo trip, whether private customized or group outing. Who Will Enjoy Traveling with Tourissimo? Active travelers seeking to get to know Italy on a deeper level. Their tours strive to be culturally immersive and authentic as well as active- but the focal point is the active. Those seeking a well rounded travel experience may be frustrated, but if you have a passion for cycling, the balance will suit you perfectly. Their pricing is in the mid-range, and they’re especially popular among families. You should be relatively physically fit, however it’s by no means required that you be a super experienced cyclist. Novice long distance cyclists may find the consistency of being on the saddle day after day a bit straining - but some tours utilize e-bikes which will be easier on newbies. Top Destinations They operate throughout Italy, focusing on showcasing local wineries, accommodations, and restaurants. Itineraries are carefully vetted and pre-experienced by the guides who are all locals themselves.   Tourissimo Travel Style Tourissimo is a top provider for all active travel in Italy. Cycling is their speciality, but hiking tours are also available. They are a true local tour operator - born out of the passion that founders Beppe and Heather had and have for showing off their country. These tours are designed to go off the beaten track - enjoying good food, wine, nature, and hospitality.  Why Choose a Tour With Tourissimo? For a unique active travel experience, Tourissimo is a perfect choice. Their guides are knowledgeable, and intimately familiar with Italian culture, food, and history. It’s a perfect way to see Italy from a new light.

Personality Journeys works with you to create a custom tailored journey in Greece. What Makes Them Stand Out? They make your Greece tour an adventure through fun, active itineraries. Tours are mainly private or semi-private, attractive to groups of friends, couples, and corporate trips. Their team are all experiences guides and travel experts in Greece. Having a specific regional focus helps them be able to really concentrate on finding the best outings, activities, food and accommodation options for you and your travel companions. Who Travels With Them? Travelers looking for a fun trip to Greece. The average age range to take their trips varies, as their tailor made options appeal to multiple types of traveler. Younger travelers, families, and honeymooners may enjoy their chartered sailing trips, while older travelers and groups of friends might gravitate more to an Agro Tourism. Active travelers will find a fun trip when they arrange a multi day hiking tour. Where Do They Operate? Their tours go throughout mainland Greece and the many islands. Why Travel With Them? For a unique, fresh, and exciting way to explore Greece. Because they offer both luxury and adventure tours, it’s a great place to start for experiencing Greece in the way you want. There’s definitely something for everyone, and you have some direct control over what you see and do during your tour.

Founded by Christian Moser, MOSER specializes in the remote trekking regions of Patagonia, offering mostly hard but some soft adventure options. What Makes Them Stand Out? MOSER operates adventurous, intensive trips in the Patagonia and Atacama regions of Chile and Argentina. If you’re interested in hard core adventure hiking and trekking, this is the place to go. Though they do offer a range of physical activities, and even have cruises, their main focus is on adventure and outdoor activity. Who Travels With Them? Their trips will definitely be most enjoyed by those who like adrenaline, hard adventure, and being outdoors. They see a wide range of ages, but all travelers should be physically fit and able. Hikes are either lodge-to-lodge or the more challenging campsite and tent sleeping. Groups are between 4-10, allowing everyone to have peace and quiet among the amazing landscapes, but also allowing for conversation and enjoying nights around the campfires, and support as you go through your journey. Where Do They Operate? While their speciality is active hiking tours in Patagonia, they also offer Atacama desert tours, adventurous sailing trips around Cape Horn, and excursions to Easter Island. Why Travel With Them? For a truly incredible view of the Patagonian landscape via hiking, camping, and knowledgeable local guides. They are the place to go if you’re seeking an active vacation - you won’t have too many creature comforts, but your guides and tour companions will create a wonderful sense of comradery. If you are not as interested in difficult and constant hiking, but still want to experience Patagonia in an adventurous way, their small ship cruises are a good option. In short, MOSER is for the adventurous spirit wanting to get closer to nature and enjoy the outdoors.

Founded in Tanzania in 2012, Tanzania based tour operator Lights on Africa is a new local tour operator that focuses on safari tours and trips in East Africa.  What Makes Them Stand Out? Offering multiple types of safari tours such as balloon safaris, walking safaris, cultural safaris and, of course, wildlife safaris, Lights on Africa is a leader in providing high quality unforgettable trips. Their guides are knowledgeable and experienced in leading large or small groups. They are a local safari tour operator staffed by native Tanzanians who know the area, are fluent in several languages and committed to providing the best service possible. It also offers trekking tours to Tanzania’s mountains such as Mt. Kilimanjaro, Mt. Meru, Ol Doinyo Lengai, and Usambara. Who Travels With Them? Lights on Africa caters to all age travelers seeking to explore East Africa. They accommodate multiple budgets, offer special packages such as students packages, honeymoon packages and more. How Does it Work? Founded by a Tanzanian native, Lights on Africa promises to take travelers  off-the-beaten track to explore the wildlife in Africa. You will explore the surrounding areas at a comfortable pace, led by an experienced local team. Where Do They Operate? Lights on Africa offers tours and packages in Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda and Rwanda.  Why Travel With Them? If you are looking to trek Tanzania’s mountains or explore wildlife with a local tour operator that knows every corner of the country, then Lights on Africa could be a good choice.

Sail in Greece Adventures is a new company based in London that runs small-ship party boats in the Greek Islands. Their motto is “Smash Reality.”  What Makes Them Stand Out?  They’ve identified a niche market and try to do everything to please it. While based in London, they have offices in Athens and are experienced in Greece travel.  Who Travels With Them? Customers are restricted to those 18-35 years of age; passengers generally like drinking, dancing, loud music, and general partying on a budget. Many are British.  Where Do They Operate? Their small ship and yacht cruises sail in the Cyclades, Greek Islands, between ultra-popular Mykonos and Santorini, with stops on the isles of Ios and Paros. You can also work out custom itineraries on their eight-passenger yachts.   How Does It Work? Cabins on these ships are shared twins and quite small, but most passengers spend their time up on deck. You can bring your own alcohol or purchase aboard. Special “booze cruises” in some ports may be purchased separately, and they throw a private beach party on Paros. Basic fares are low, but you may pay more with add-ons.  Why Travel With Them?  If you fit the age profile and like to party with like-minded people on some of the world’s most beautiful islands and deep-blue seas, you’ll find a good match with Sail in Greece Adventures.

Founded in 2015, they offer customized treks, adventure experiences, and yoga retreats in the Himalayan region. What Makes Them Stand Out? A wide variety of tour options are available - Evergreen acts as a “travel consultancy” directing you to treks and retreats run by a variety of companies. They often help arrange homestays where travelers can really get a sense of local life, meet families, and feel at home in local mountain communities. Travelers can contact them to arrange a customize a trek or tour experience. Who Travels With Them? Their tours are adventure travel focused, and extremely local. Multiple motorbike tours and treks are available, along with some yoga retreats. Where Do They Operate? Tours are centered in the Himalayan region, and include excursions to Leh Ladakh, Manali, Dharamshala, Kashmir, Uttrakhand, and Rajasthan. You can search for a tour by these destinations or by them: Motorbike, Yoga, Car. Why Travel With Them? For an adventurous experience and a local focus, as well as the opportunity to customize your tour experience to your specifications, with the help of an expert.

Focused in Greece, Travel N Cycle offers multiple services for cyclists. They were founded in 2012 and provide private, small or large group tours. The tour guides have a deep passion for both cycling and educating their guests about Greece.  If you’re looking for a cycling tour that explores the history and culture of Greece, then you should definitely take Travel N Cycle into consideration. They strive to find the right tour that best suits your travel goals. What Makes Them Stand Out? They offer unique cycling tours around Greece. The size of each tour ranges from small to large. They provide private tours as well. Travel N Cycle give tours across scenic landscapes, as well as, ancient cities of the past. They also have different cycling tours like mountain bike, trekking bike, bike & wine, and city bike tours. Travel N Cycle caters to a wide range of cyclist. They provide different tour levels from leisurely to extreme. Who Travels With Them? Avid cyclists who want to explore Greece while also being active. As said above, they provide different tour levels for novice, proficient and advanced riders. They have clients from across the globe who are traveling to or through Greece. Where Do They Operate? They operate in Greece. They have tours in Athens, Peloponnese Peninsula, Epirus, Thessaly, Saronic Gulf, Evrytania, and Macedonia. Why Travel With Them? Travel N Cycle is passionate about cycling and providing a memorable tour. They strive to capture the essence of Greece. If you are seeking an active and adventurous type of experience around Greece, then you should travel with Travel N Cycle. Their variety of services caters to anyone who is passionate about cycling. Travel N Cycle provides unique tours that also encompass Greece’s culture.

Epic Adventures offers in depth Nepal tours, as well as tours that feature Bhutan, Tibet, and India. What Makes Them Stand Out? They provide a way for you to experience rural and remote Himalayan life, from a local perspective. Their main focus is on hiking tours, where you’ll meet local communities and learn about the mountain cultures. They have an experienced and international team, dedicated to ensuring the safety and enjoyment of all their travelers. Who Travels With Them? Their tours are open to all ages, but travelers should be in good physical shape. Their treks and peak climbs are offered in a variety of durations and are all led by extremely experienced guides. Trekking in these environments requires a certain amount of endurance and skill, so travelers should know very clearly the level of the trek or peak climb they choose. Where Do They Operate? They are very specially focused in Nepal, with tours also offered in Bhutan, Tibet, and India. Multiple treks and peak climbs are available. Why Travel With Them? If you are looking for a lot of variety to choose from for your next Nepal trek, they certainly would be a good place to start. This kind of travel depends on a company that puts safety and guide knowledge first, and Epic Adventures takes this aspect very seriously. They also take care to ensure that all their tours fulfill the commandments of sustainable and responsible travel. Especially important for the area of the world they specialize in.

British company, Travel Talk, strives to provide top notch travel experiences at reasonable prices. What Makes Travel Talk Stand Out? Travel Talk was born out of the desire to make extraordinary experiences accessible to ordinary people. They have many niche tours such that finding a tour suited to your interests is easy, and you’re guaranteed to meet like minded friends along the way! All tours are led by local experts who are there to make your experience unforgettable. Who Will Enjoy Traveling with Travel Talk? In their own words, travelers on their tours “have a desire to get off the beaten track, experience the culture and tradition all while having a little fun.” Single travelers are more than welcome, and provided you don’t mind sharing a room, no single supplement is required (with the occasional exception on sailing tours). However, unlike their commonly compared counterparts, Contiki and Topdeck, Travel Talk presents itself as less of a constant ongoing party and more of a cultural experiences tour. Not to say there is not the occasional night out on the town - only that the more introverted may enjoy Travel Talk more than Contiki or Topdeck. Top Destinations Travel Talk’s most popular tour destinations include Turkey, Egypt, Jordan, Morocco and Greece. Travel Talk also offer a range of tours to The Balkans, Africa, Ski Bansko, Croatia, Asia and plenty more. Travel Talk Style Travel Talks travel style is all about cultural discovery and having a good time. Accommodations are chosen within a variety of comfort levels, and Travel Talk strives to choose where you stay and how as it’s own experience - not just as an afterthought. Travel Talk tours are budget conscious, but depending on the destination, you may experience anything from a 5 star resort to riding aboard a traditional felucca on the Nile.   Why Choose a Tour with Travel Talk? They are committed to providing a real, adventurous, cultural, and above all local experience. Yet they are careful to not force the comfort zone too far. You will receive outstanding service, accommodation, transportation, and attention from your tour guides. Itineraries cover the must see tourist spots as well as hidden gems. It’s the perfect travel experience that won’t break the bank.