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Helping People Grow Together Through Travel Since 1972!

Since 1972, thousands of men and women with developmental challenges, autism, down syndrome, and other special needs have achieved greater independence through special needs travel experiences provided by The Guided Tour, Inc. The focus of The Guided Tour is to offer special needs vacations that provide a growth-producing experience, in which our travelers are able to travel and socialize independent of their families. Through our special needs trips, many of our travelers can share of their own experiences, many for the first time, with their families, their supervisors, co-workers and friends. The Guided Tour staff make sure our travelers not only have their independence, but they also make sure our travelers have assistance with money, medication, and of course, a fantastic memorable vacation!

Our Director Ari Segal with his wonderful family

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The guided tour, inc. provides:.

• Supervised vacations for adults with developmental challenges.
• 50 years of special needs travel experience and expertise!
• Experienced staff who are paid professionals.
• A staff to traveler ratio of 1:3, and trip coordinators with many years of experience leading special needs travel groups.
• “On-Wheels” trips with 1:1 staffing for individuals who use a wheelchair or are slow-pacers.
• A nurse on the majority of trips to oversee any additional medical needs.
• A variety of local, national and international trips to choose from with exciting itineraries exploring new horizons. We meet new people and places and make memories that will last a lifetime.
• Summer Vacations at the Seashore in New Jersey with a beautiful beach house located just one block from the beach.
• Adult Resort camp experiences available three times a year in the beautiful Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania.
• Special vacations and social groups for adults with special needs to expand their friendship circle.
• Our travelers enjoy sending us new trip ideas each year, and we work hard to hammer travel plans out to create exceptional special needs vacations.

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Guided vacations, travel with ease, all the details are covered..

Guided vacations make traveling to a new city or country a breeze. Planned itineraries, group tours, organized transportation, and arranged hotels allow you to really sit back and enjoy your trip without worrying about the details. Create new friendships with travel companions and discover hidden gems with tour features such as private and behind-the-scenes tours with local experts. Dive deep and explore more on a guided vacation.

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United states.

Land of the Free

The United States of America is truly the land of the beautiful from sea to shining sea. With easy access to thousands of miles of beautiful coastline and beaches, mountain ranges on both sides, even residents of its 50 states can’t take it all in in a lifetime. It is the most culturally diverse place on earth and birthplace of modern jazz, rock and blues. So whether you are young or old, a sports enthusiast, foodie, musician, historian or nature lover, the United States of America is right here waiting for you.

Explore More

Destination must-see's, west coast:.

Relish the welcoming culture of its laid back cities, some of the world’s finest wines, and landscapes that take your breath away. The west coast has an abundance of sites to see. Home to multiple national parks, get in touch with your adventurous side and do some exploring. Also rich in natural wonders it’s a nature-lovers dream.

Big Cities (Spotlights):

Explore some of the world’s most iconic cities and get to know the sites and culture that make them famous. Whether it is the hustle and bustle of New York City famous for Times Square and all its lights, or glamorous Hollywood filled with celebrities, you are sure to see some sights you will never forget.

Delight in some famed southern hospitality and cultural discovery traveling through America’s southern states. Home to country music, visit the Country Music Hall of Fame, Grand Ole Opry, and Bluebird Café where many famous stars have performed. With so much farmland it will be easy to take on the role of a cowboy for a day. After a long day, finish up with an amazing home cooked meal and some sweet ice tea.

New England:

Discover New England and the many things it has to offer. From shorelines to mountain tops you get a little bit of everything. Sandy beaches make for great water sports, sunsets, and of course seafood! And majestic mountains make for great outdoor adventures, and sunsets as well. With its charming towns and vast amount of activities its unique culture is brought to life.

Destination Must-Do's

National parks:.

Travel through America’s National Parks getting to know the hidden gems and jaw-dropping scenery. With many hiking trails at different levels of difficulty there is a path for everyone! Stunning scenery, hidden caves, and lots of wildlife, it might be a hike but the view is worth it from the top!

Music Cities:

Revel in the sounds of the blues, jazz, country, and good old rock‘n’roll in the cities that shaped modern music. With as many as eight music cities all passionate about different styles of music, you are sure to find one that fits your taste.

Alaska Icebergs:

Behold Alaska’s most admired treasures - its ancient glaciers, snow-capped mountains and majestic icebergs. On foot or by boat you are not limited as to how you get to experience these massive glaciers.

Hawaiian Beaches:

Immerse yourself in paradise with a stroll along one of Hawaii’s pristine beaches including Oahu’s famous North Shore. Crystal clear waters, soft sand, and beautiful palm leaves make for a relaxing day at the beach with some beautiful views.

Expert Advice

Wow, it’s hard to give advice for the entire USA. It’s so diverse. I would say wherever you go – think of it as having its own culture and be ready to dive in and experience it, like one of my favorite places, Hawaii!

Always bring extra memory cards and batteries for your camera. It’s been my experience that you can never take enough picture of places like the National Parks or the New York skyline.

With such a diverse climate from Alaska to Arizona and New York to San Francisco, there’s really never a bad time to travel through the U.S. You can always find something amazing.

Featured Tours to United States

America's National Parks & Denver

Grand Hawaiian Adventure Four Islands featuring O'ahu, Big Island, Maui and Kauai

Alaska Discovery Land & Cruise featuring a 7-night Holland America Cruise

National Parks of America

Montana: Exploring Big Sky Country featuring Yellowstone & Glacier National Parks

Hawaiian Adventure Three Islands featuring O'ahu, Big Island and Maui

Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks

The Colorado Rockies featuring National Parks and Historic Trains

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Fully Guided Tours & Travel Packages 2024/2025

Our 6,490 most popular guided group trips. compare tour itineraries from 1,118 tour companies. 28,863 reviews. 4.7/5 avg rating., popular guided group tours.

Explore Southern Sicily

• Take a cooking class and learn how to make iconic sicilian dishes
• Wander the narrow streets of ortigia
• Admire one of the most well-preserved multi-coloured floor mosaics from roman times
• Discover one of the best-preserved ancient greek temples in existence
• Visit the cathedral in monreale and witness the finest example of norman architecture in sicily

Italy: Lake Como & the Italian Lake District

• Sample delicious sparkling wines at a cantina in Franciacorta, Italy’s “Champagne” region.
• Cycle the scenic lakeside bike paths around Lake Iseo, made famous when the artist Christo installed his “floating piers” here.
• Marvel at breathtaking scenery when you ride the UNESCO-listed Bernina railway, then cycle among the splendid Bernina peaks.
• Ride the easy bike paths of the Valtellina valley, blanketed in vineyard terraces among miles of dry-stone walls.
• Taste delicious Pizzoccheri pasta and local cheeses only found in Valtellina.

Cappadocia Short Break

• Discover an out-of-this-world landscape, made up of mystical fairy chimneys and cave-like dwellings.
• Visit one of Cappadocia’s famous local wineries and enjoy your glass with the best natural entertainment (sunset, of course).
• Walk past ancient architecture at your own pace, with heaps of free time and a flexible local guide to show you the way.
• Explore the fascinating underground city of Kaymakli, listen to local stories and admire artwork from the Byzantine-era.
• Hike the beautiful Red Valley or Love Valley and spark your imagination with the natural rock formations that dot the land.

India Tiger Safari

• Explore 5 different national parks over 2 weeks in search of the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger
• Search for wildlife in Bandhavgarh, boasting the highest population-density of tigers in the world
• Private 4WD safaris and a boat trip to seek out India's exotic wildlife

Best China with Great Wall & Yangtze Cruise

• Marvel at the winding and splendid Great Wall in Beijing.
• Witness the mysterious Terracotta Warriors in Xi'an.
• Enjoy a scenic Li River cruise in Guilin, with the karst pinnacles and serene countryside.
• Embark on a 4-day Yangtze cruise and admire the Three Gorges Dam.
• Explore the Bund, Yu Gardens, and the French Concession in Shanghai.

Central Mexico: Oaxaca to Mexico City

• Explore the ancient ruins of monte albán
• Bike through farmland and agave fields to a petrified waterfall
• Learn all about (and eat!) mexico's delectable regional cuisine
• Visit a talavera ceramics workshop in puebla
• Glide through the canals of xochimilco on a boat

Spain and Portugal Highlights

• Be immersed in the cultures of Spain and Portugal
• Spain and Portugal highlights
• Fully escorted trip with guaranteed departures

Best of Ireland and Scotland 2024

• : Explore Dublin, Londonderry, Belfast and Edinburgh with a Local Specialist
• : Discover Waterford, Adare, Galway and Glasgow
• : Visit the Irish National Stud in Kildare, the Waterford Crystal Showroom, Blarney Castle, Giant's Causeway, Titanic Experience in Belfast, a whisky distillery, Pitlochry and Edinburgh Castle
• : View Eilean Donan Castle, the battlefield of Culloden and the 18th green at St. Andrews
• : See St. Patrick's Cathedral in Dublin, Galway Cathedral and Loch Lomond

All Guided Group , expedition cruises, self guided adventures and vacation packages. Find the best guided and expert planned vacation and holiday packages. Read more about Guided Group

Small Group Guided Group Tours

Northwest of Argentina in 6 days

• Discover Quebrada de Humahuaca, Cafayate and Salta
• Visit typical town of “La Quebrada de Humahuaca”: “Purmamarca” and its Hill of the Seven Colors
• Explore Calchaquies Valleys
• visit the Pucará, ancient ruins and the Archaeological Museum

Sapa Adventure

• Start your adventure in Hanoi, discovering the Old Quarter, delicious food and gorgeous landmarks in your free time.
• Stay in a traditional homestay for one night – the perfect way to access the remote parts of Vietnam and get a real glimpse into local life. You’ll also be treated to home-cooked meals, among breathtaking mountain scenery.
• Hike through the rolling rice terraces, waterfalls, mountains and lush green hills of Sapa and you’ll quickly realise why this has become an iconic image of Vietnam.
• Discover Sapa town on a walking tour with a local guide, tasting local snacks along the way – a trademark of the local lifestyle.
• Meet a community of hilltribe people who have been in Vietnam for over three centuries. Having emigrated from China, the H'mong settled in Cat Cat Village and will invite you to learn about their rich culture.

Nile Cruise

• Visit the pyramids
• Explore ancient temples and tombs
• Cruise on the Nile
• Enjoy the laid back atmosphere of Aswan

Mexico Unplugged

• Visit the community of San Pedro Tlahuac, home to Nahuatl descendants who practice traditions like chinampa farming, fiestas and ancient ceremonies.
• Wander the stalls, snap some photos and pick up traditional handicrafts at the markets in Mexico City and Puebla.
• Escape the Mexican heat in the highlands of San Cristobal de las Casas and explore surrounding villages where traditional customs and roots are thriving.
• Explore the stunning Mayan temples of Palenque dating back to AD600 and stroll through Chichen Itza, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
• Finish off your epic journey and recharge with a little beach time in the beachside hub of Playa del Carmen.

Best Guided Group Tours by Duration

Tours, Cruises & Private Trips

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Top Guided Group Attractions & Experiences

Top Guided Group Experiences

Diverse experiences on guided tours.

• Taking a Safari in Tanzania and witnessing the incredibly diverse African wildlife
• Following in the footsteps of Darwin on a tour of the Galapagos
• Exploring the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu in Peru, marveling at the architectural wonders of the Inca civilization
• Cruising along the tranquil backwaters of Kerala, India, aboard a traditional houseboat
• traditional Haka performed
• Getting up before dawn in Alice Springs, Australia , and taking a drive out to watch the sunrise over Kata Tjuta (The Olgas)
• Discovering the rich history and cultural heritage of Kyoto, Japan, through visits to ancient temples and traditional tea houses
• Sailing the crystal-clear waters of the Greek Islands on a guided yacht tour, exploring secluded beaches and charming fishing villages
• Satisfying your inner Indiana Jones on a guided tour of the Pyramids in Egypt , led by professional Egyptologists
• Immersing yourself in a one-of-a-kind shopping experience by visiting a famous floating market on a top Thailand tour
• Embarking on a trek through the lush rainforests of Costa Rica, encountering diverse flora and fauna along the way
• Venturing into the heart of the Amazon Rainforest on a guided expedition, discovering the world's most biodiverse ecosystem
• Local guides relaying their personal stories and experiences adds a layer of authenticity and immersion.
• Taking a food tour from Barcelona to Berlin
• Visiting a Maori village in New Zealand , learning about their culture
• Taking a hot air balloon ride over the majestic Serengeti plains in Tanzania, witnessing the annual Great Migration of wildebeest and zebras

Guided Group Tours & Travel Guide

Guided Group Attractions & Landmarks Guide

The modern guided tours are unlike their notorious predecessors, the endless on-again, off-again bus stops. 

Today, guided travel involves thrilling activities like biking the Greek Islands, boarding a Zodiac in Antarctica, hiking the Canadian Rockies on an epic Canada vacation , or immersing into the cultures of distant lands. 

Group sizes are often smaller — as few as 10 to 16 per trip — and with expertly trained guides, you'll enjoy a more intimate and personalized experience. 

Guided tours also allow you to focus on the sights rather than the logistics while enjoying camaraderie with fellow travelers. Plus, you can benefit from cost savings with group rates, making group travel ideal for unforgettable journeys filled with extraordinary experiences.

Benefits of Guided Tours vs. Booking Everything on Your Own

Once guided group tours meant following a flag-waving guide aimlessly from museum to museum — but that's not the case anymore! Let's look at some of the benefits of modern-day guided travel tours. 

Flexible Itineraries

Guided tours still follow a pre-set, multi-day itinerary, but guided tour companies usually schedule free time into the itinerary for independent exploration. This way, you're unlikely to miss the plane, bus, or train and get in trouble just because you spend some more time exploring your destination.

For example, you might join your group on an orientation walk around Marrakech in the morning but then have the afternoon free to explore Djemaa el-Fnaa Square. On longer excursions, you might even get an entire 'free' day to lounge on the beach or go for a day hike .

Diverse Transportation Options

While coach tours remain popular for some travelers, guided travel has evolved to offer a wide range of transportation options. Leading travel operators like Abercrombie & Kent provide private luxury vans accommodating smaller groups, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Other companies, such as G Adventures and Intrepid Travel , include local transportation methods like tuk-tuks, feluccas, and even camels in their itineraries. Such means of transport not only reduce costs but also allow travelers to interact with locals, enhancing the cultural exchange.

An Opportunity To Socialize and Make Friends

Discovering common ground with fellow travelers is a delightful aspect of guided tours. People on guided vacation tours often share similar interests and motivations for joining the tour. They're seeking authentic travel experiences without the hassle of planning. 

Whether in a small group of 10 or a larger gathering of 20, you will likely forge connections with like-minded individuals, potentially forming lasting friendships during your journey.

Intimate Travel Experience With Smaller Groups

These days, many guided tour operators offer 'small group' tours with as few as ten travelers.

Traveling under the radar with such a small group offers a more personal and flexible approach to your vacation. 

You can also foster genuine connections with both fellow travelers and local communities in this intimate setting. With the right tour operator, guided tours with small groups are affordable and provide opportunities for authentic cultural immersion and memorable experiences.

Authenticity and Local Flavor

A group tour can be just as authentic and eye-opening as independent travel — perhaps even more so since guided tours usually have expert guides who are well-versed in the place you're visiting. 

Most group tours hire local guides. You can think of them as a friendly local who can 'unlock' your destination. They will take you to favorite and sometimes lesser-known restaurants, markets, photo spots, boutiques, etc.

Some tour operators, like Exodus , include homestays in their itineraries. What better way to experience Italy or Spain than by staying in the home of a local winemaker? You'll have the chance to chat with locals on public trains, play a random soccer game with a bunch of children, and learn about local spices from a market vendor. What's more authentic than that?

Things To Do on Guided Tours

Joining a guided tour can open up a world of possibilities for travelers since they offer a range of activities and experiences to enjoy. No matter your interests, you're sure to find guided tours that cater to every interest and passion.

Cultural Experiences

Take a tour to the heart of diverse cultures around the world with cultural guided tours. Understand local traditions, history, and heritage as expert guides lead you through iconic landmarks and hidden gems. 

From exploring ancient ruins like Hampi in India or Waitangi Treaty Grounds in New Zealand to participating in their traditional ceremonies like Diwali or Maori cultural performances, these cultural encounters provide invaluable insights into the soul of each destination.

Outdoor Adventures

Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of nature with guided tours tailored for outdoor enthusiasts. Traverse rugged terrains, witness stunning vistas, and encounter diverse wildlife as expert guides lead you through some of the world's most spectacular landscapes. 

From trekking through the Himalayas or exploring the icy wilderness of Antarctica to wildlife safaris in Africa or kayaking in New Zealand, these outdoor escapades promise unforgettable experiences amidst the wonders of the natural world.

Culinary Delights

Guided food tours are one of the best ways to explore the gastronomy of a country. You can explore bustling street markets, discover lesser-known family-run eateries, and join hands-on cooking classes led by expert chefs. 

Sample mouthwatering delicacies such as paella and tapas in Spain or indulge in fragrant spices and savory kebabs on a culinary journey through the bustling souks of the Middle East. Guided tours promise unforgettable gastronomic experiences, and you get to know the history and origin of your favorite dishes as well.

Adventures and Expeditions

You can push your limits and create unforgettable memories with experienced guides leading the way for a fulfilling and safe adventure. Guided tours are your best choice for heart-pounding experiences in some of the world's most spectacular destinations. 

From scaling towering peaks to diving into the ocean's depths, these expeditions cater to thrill-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Experience the rush of whitewater rafting through the raging rapids of the Grand Canyon, or test your climbing skills on the iconic granite cliffs of Yosemite National Park. For those craving an underwater adventure, snorkel alongside vibrant coral reefs in the crystal-clear waters of the Great Barrier Reef or dive with majestic sharks in the waters off the coast of South Africa.

If you prefer to stay on dry land, trek through the rugged terrain of Patagonia, where jagged peaks and pristine glaciers await at every turn. For the ultimate adrenaline rush, consider bungee jumping off the towering cliffs of New Zealand's Nevis Highwire Platform or zip-lining through the lush rainforests of Costa Rica.

Guided Group Reviews & Ratings

Lisa and Mike

Everything was PERFECT

We loved everything about this trip! The guides BB and Marc were phenomenal, the routes were beautiful and well thought out, the accommodations were well located, an...

Mother Daughter Trip to Mallorca

Perfect weather, attentive guides, great biking and the planned lunches -- at an olive oil press, a winery, and a paella cooking demonstration -- as well as the grou...

Mark from NC

Great guides and routes

The guides were an excellent team. They gave us a realistic description of each days ride and they provided plenty of encouragement along the way. The routes were ma...

Nice trip, but we didn't get the twin beds

The rides and choices of rides were wonderful. A beautiful island and perfect roads for cycling. The hotels were nice. The guides were upbeat and fun. The only way I...

Mallorca - A Great Trip

This was our first VBT trip. We went with relatives who have previously been on several trips. We had a wonderful time. Our guides were super, Mallorca was beautiful...

See all Guided Group reviews

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Legends and Lore Tour of the Tower of London

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Hear legends from a Guard in the Bloody Tower before your full tour of the fortress

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Louvre at Closing Time Tour with Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo

See the best of the Louvre with fewer crowds and a passionate guide on this late afternoon tour

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Special Access Colosseum Arena Floor Tour through the Gladiator's Gate

Walk in the footsteps of gladiators on the Colosseum floor and see the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

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Paris in a Day Tour with Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and Seine River Cruise

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Ultimate Venice in a Day with Murano and Burano

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Murano and Burano in a Half Day Boat Tour

Easily explore these colorful Venetian islands and see traditional glassblowing and lacemaking

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Venice in a Day Tour with Gondola Ride

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Tuscany Wine Tour from Florence to Siena & Chianti

Enjoy a luxury Tuscany day trip to visit Siena and San Gimignano then taste food and wine in Chianti

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Rome in a Day Tour with Colosseum and Vatican Museums

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Da Vinci's Last Supper and the Duomo: Milan in a Half Day

Combine Milan’s top attractions with a walking tour to see Brera, Sforza Castle and the Galleria

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Private Skip the Line Vatican, Sistine Chapel, and St Peter's Basilica Tour

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15 Best Group Travel Companies for Guided Tours in 2024

The best tour companies for guided tours in 2024 deliver special insider experiences you simply can't book independently..

The Scoop: What to Know About Trafalgar Tours

Guided tours are an easy and stress-free way to discover new places. When you travel with the best tour operators, you can often dig much deeper into the history, culture, and daily life of your destination than if you’d gone it alone. In fact, the world’s top tour companies employ local guides, handle all of the details, and often deliver special insider travel experiences you simply can’t book independently. And travel tour groups are a good value, too.

To learn more about this year’s best tour companies and their guided tours, click on any company name in the list below to go straight to their website and start your search. Or, scroll down to read more about my picks for the best tour operators in 2024.

2024’s Best Tour Operators for Guided Tours 

• G Adventures  
• Adventures by Disney
• Grand Circle Travel
• Road Scholar
• Collette  
• Tauck  
• National Geographic Expeditions  
• Overseas Adventure Travel
• Intrepid Travel  
• AdventureWomen  
• Abercrombie & Kent
• Exodus Travels

1. Trafalgar Tours

One of the largest and most established tour operators in the world, Trafalgar offers everything from standard coach tours and small group active tours to private tours, hiking and biking tours, and special interest tours built around nature, history, food, and other interests. All told, Trafalgar hosts more than 350 guided tours in 72 countries and all seven continents. England, Italy, the Iberian Peninsula, Egypt, Ireland, Argentina, and Thailand are some of its most popular destinations. ( Read our full Trafalgar review here .)

Seniors and travelers 50 and older are Trafalagar’s core audience, though children as young as five years old are welcome on its family tours. Trafalgar’s solo travel options include free or reduced single supplement prices for many of its most popular trips. Each of its tour directors has at least three to five years of road experience, and many have been with the company for decades. 

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Trafalgar’s guided tours cover all accommodations (typically four-star hotels where available) and most transportation during your trip, including airport transfers on the majority of its overseas tours. Most meals and activities are included. Trafalgar also offers special one-of-a-kind experiences such as dining with locals, sleeping in a castle or historic hotel, and early entry to popular tourist attractions. Anyone who books a tour with Trafalgar’ is automatically enrolled in its Very Important Traveler (VIT) program that offers discounts and priority access on future trips. 

Quick Facts about Guided Tour Operator Trafalgar

• Average guided tour group size: 40 guests (standard coach tours); no more than 17 guests on small group active tours.
• Price range: Upscale.
• What’s included: Accommodations, transportation within the trip, admission prices, and most meals.
• What’s not included: Pre- and post-trip transportation, some meals, and tips.
• Primary audience: Seniors and travelers over the age of 50.
• Destinations: Europe, Africa, North America, Central America, South America, Middle East, Oceania, and the Polar regions.
• How to book:  Directly through  Trafalgar or through a travel agent
• More tours: 10 Best Trafalgar Tours to Take in 2024

2. G Adventures

Small group tour operator G Adventures has guided trips suitable for a wide range of travel preferences. The company’s driving philosophy is all about improving the world through travel, and it supports this mission by utilizing local businesses and community resources on its tours. Many of G Adventures’s guests share this philosophy as a core value. 

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The company’s guided tours cater to a variety of fitness levels and cultural interests. Its classic tours hit a sweet spot between backpacking and traditional group tours; active tours focus heavily on hiking, trekking, biking, and other physically intense activities; family tours lean into age-appropriate activities and kid-friendly accommodations; local living tours let you participate in the rituals of daily life in unique destinations around the world; and 18-to-thirtysomething tours let young adults explore the world with similarly aged companions. 

G Adventures also partners with National Geographic for both general tours and family journeys designed to provide guests with an even deeper understanding of the cultures and traditions of each destination. And the company’s one-of-a-kind Jane Goodall Collection of guided tours offers a responsible way to experience wildlife up close. G Adventures offers a unique perk on all of its trips. The company’s Lifetime Deposits program allows you to retain your initial deposit for use at a later date at no extra charge if you need to postpone a trip due to a change in plans or circumstances.

Quick Facts about Guided Tour Company G Adventures

• Average guided tour group size: 12 people.
• Price category: Moderate.
• What’s included: Accommodations, activities, and some meals.
• What’s not included: Airfare.
• Primary audience: Adults ages 30 to 55, but also families and younger travelers.
• How to book: Directly through G Adventures or through a travel agent.
• More tours: 10 Best G Adventures Tours to Take in 2024

3. Adventures by Disney

Founded in 2005, Adventures by Disney offers upscale small group tours to about 40 destinations on all seven continents. While you may associate Disney with princesses and talking animals, a vacation with Adventures by Disney is more about the Disney way of doing things than it is about The Walt Disney Company’s entertainment brand. 

When you travel with Adventures by Disney, what you’re getting is top-notch service, people-pleasing trip leaders (called Adventure Guides), and special experiences created just for Disney’s guided tours (think skip-the-line access to tourist attractions like the Louvre in Paris, special backstage tours on Broadway, or traditional bread-baking demonstrations in Iceland). Each trip also includes at least one Adventure Guide from the host destination, who brings local knowledge and a deep connection to the destination. 

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On guided tours with Adventures by Disney, things run smoothly and right on time . That makes it a great choice for stress-free family travel adventures . Most of Adventures by Disney’s guided tours feature built-in family time as well as built-in alone time for the adults. On some evenings, the Adventure Guides may host a “Junior Adventure” movie night. Other times there may be a kids-only dining table for the evening meal. 

Guided tours with Adventures by Disney include upscale accommodations, transportation within the trip (such as airport transfers, internal flights or trains, and motor coaches), admission prices and VIP experiences, luggage and concierge services, taxes, most gratuities, and many meals. There are typically some “on your own” meals, and pre-trip transportation is not included in the price. Adventures by Disney vacations tend toward the luxury side of the price range: an eight-day Peru vacation starts at $6,199 in 2024; an Adriatic expedition cruise starts at $8,999. In addition to its family-oriented trips, Adventures by Disney also offers private tours and adults-exclusive tours.

Adventures by Disney travelers can enroll in the company’s Adventure Insiders program to receive special offers, including advance notice of new tour destinations.

Quick Facts about Guided Tour Operator Adventures by Disney

• Average guided tour group size: 35 to 44 guests.
• Price range: Upscale/premium.
• What’s included: Accommodations, transportation within the trip, admission prices, VIP experiences, luggage and concierge services, taxes, most gratuities, and most meals.
• What’s not included: Pre- and post-trip transportation, some meals, and tips for your Adventure Guides.
• Primary audience: Families and adult Disney fans.
• How to Book: Directly through Adventures by Disney or through a travel agent.

The flagship brand of the Globus family of companies (which also includes Cosmos and Avalon Waterways ), tour operator Globus offers coach tours on six continents spanning more than 70 countries. Tour styles include small group tours , offered on Europe and North America itineraries; choice tours, which allow you to choose from three or four possible excursions rather than a one-size-fits-all schedule; undiscovered tours that take a deep dive away from the tourist areas; self-guided independent tours; Escapes by Globus , which operate during the slower tourism season between November and March; and faith-based trips to destinations such as the Holy Land.

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Globus caters to older adults, generally from about 50 to 70 years old, with most guests traveling as part of a couple or family. For solo travelers, which comprise about 20% of the tour company’s guests, Globus offers single supplement waiver promotions on select tours. Globus also has a Welcome Back Credit loyalty program. Each trip earns up to a $250 credit toward a future trip with Globus, Cosmos, or Avalon Waterways.

Quick Facts about Guided Tours with Globus

• Average guided tour group size: 38 guests (classic coach tours); 20 to 24 guests (small group discovery tours).
• Price category: Budget to moderate.
• What’s included: Hotels, all breakfasts, some additional meals, all transportation, VIP “skip the line” access, and local guides.
• What’s not included:  Gratuities and airfare; however, Globus offers the option to purchase airfare when you book, which comes with free airport transfers.
• Primary audience: Adults between 50 and 70 years old.
• Destinations: Europe, Africa, North America, Central America, South America, the Middle East, and Oceania.
• How to book: Directly through Globus or through a travel agent.

5. Grand Circle Travel

Operating since 1958, Grand Circle Travel is another highly regarded tour operator for adults over 50. The flagship brand within the Grand Circle family of companies (which also includes Overseas Adventure Travel ) offers a wide selection of land-based tours and river cruises for groups ranging in size from 24 to 47 people. 

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Grand Circle Travel’s trips are specifically designed for older travelers. Leisurely pacing and a focus on value are hallmarks of the Grand Circle experience. Like its sister company Overseas Adventure Travel (O.A.T.), which is a top choice for active solo travelers over age 50, Grand Circle stands out as a great fit for solo travelers interested in finding camaraderie and community on vacation. The company offers free or low-cost single supplement fees on all of its itineraries. Grand Circle has guided tour experiences on all seven continents. Land-based group tours average about 30 travelers, while river cruises can range from about 38 to 45 guests. Grand Circle’s loyalty program, called the Inner Circle Club , offers discounts for frequent guests and multiple trips booked within the same calendar year. 

Quick Facts about Guided Tour Operator Grand Circle Travel

• Average guided tour group size: 24 to 30 guests (land tours); 38 to 45 guests (river cruises).
• Price category: Moderate to upscale.
• What’s included: Airfare, meals, activities, accommodations, transportation, special events, gratuities for local guides and motor coach drivers (land tours); airfare, accommodations, most meals, onboard drinks and house beer and wine, port charges, and gratuities for local guides and motor coach drivers (cruises).
• What’s not included: Airfare can also be purchased separately.
• Primary audience: Adults, including solo travelers, over the age of 50.
• How to book: Directly through Grand Circle Travel or through a travel agent.

6. Road Scholar

What started as the tour company Elderhostel in 1975 has since evolved into Road Scholar , a non-profit tour company with an educational focus that offers guided tours around the world. Its primary audience is senior travelers, but it also has the special and unique Grandparent Adventures , which support grandparents and grandchildren traveling together. Road Scholar is also very solo-traveler friendly—about 25 percent of Road Scholar tour guests are solo travelers. And the tour company has a number of itineraries for women-only tours as well.  

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Road Scholar’s educational tours include all accommodations plus most meals, expert-led lectures, field trips, and hands-on experiences, as well as transportation and gratuities. Road Scholar is able to book airfare for international tours, which allows you to have your travel monitored and supported by the company from start to finish. 

Quick Facts about Guided Tour Company Road Scholar

• Average Tour Size: 22 people.
• Price Range: Budget to luxury (from about $699 to $21,999 per person).
• What’s Included: Accommodations, most meals, expert-led experiences, transportation, gratuities, and the Road Scholar Assurance Plan coverage.
• What’s Not Included: Pre- and post-trip transportation.
• Primary Audience: Older travelers, grandparents traveling with grandkids, women, and solo travelers.
• Destinations: Europe, the Americas, Africa and the Middle East, Asia, Australia and South Pacific, and Antarctica.
• How to book: Directly through Road Scholar or through a travel agent.

7. Collette

A family-run business with hundreds of guided tour options across all seven continents, Collette offers a mix of small group trips (14 to 24 people per tour) and classic guided tours (up to 44 people). Its group tours start around $1,500, and most guests are over the age of 55. Collette is worldwide travel brand and tour operator with offices in the U.S., Canada, Australia, and the U.K.

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From land tours and river cruises to rail journeys, small group tours, and city stays, Collette offers a variety of ways to travel, including optional excursions and pre- and post-tour nights at your destination. And while the company tends to attract an older and budget-focused audience with an eye toward value, many of its hotels are four-star quality, and meals favor well-reviewed local restaurants with generous menus. 

Collette employs local guides for all of its trips and puts an emphasis on utilizing local businesses and restaurants. It also offers community sustainability programs for its guests in destinations across the world and invests a percentage of its proceeds back into local community or sustainability projects. Tour guests are automatically enrolled in The Collette Passport Club and receive credit toward future trips. 

Quick Facts about Guided Tours with Collette

• Average guided tour group size: 44 guests (classic tours); 14 to 24 guests (small group tours).
• What’s included: Hotels, activities, museum and attraction admissions, local guides, transportation, and airport transfers.
• What’s not included: Airfare, meals, and gratuities.
• Primary audience: Adults, primarily couples, between the ages of 50 and 70.
• How to book: Directly through Collette or through a travel agent.

8. T auck Tours

Family-owned Tauck has a simple philosophy: Deliver more than what’s expected. The award-winning guided tour operator has been doing just that for nearly 100 years by offering authentic experiences and behind-the-scenes access to destinations all over the world. Tauck’s century of experience is evident in nearly every detail of its guided trips, which cover more than 100 destinations in 70+ countries across all seven continents.

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The company’s tours are well-regarded for their expertise in local customs, traditions, flora, and fauna. Meals and accommodations are upscale. Its tour guides, called Tauck Directors, come from 40 countries and average a decade of experience each. You can choose from five unique trip styles: land tours, small group journeys, river cruises, small ship cruises, and multigenerational family journeys called Tauck Bridges. The tour operator also boasts an exclusive partnership with the award-winning documentary filmmaker Ken Burns, offering deep-dive trips that explore the themes of his films, including the American Civil War, U.S. national parks, baseball, and jazz. 

Quick Facts about Guided Tour Operator Tauck

• Average guided tour group size: 35 people (standard tours); 24 people (small group tours).
• Price category: Upscale.
• What’s included: Gratuities, sightseeing and admissions, most meals, airport and luggage transfer, and taxes.
• What’s not included: Airfare and alcohol.
• Primary audience: Adults over age 50 and multigenerational family groups.
• How to book: Directly through Tauck or through a travel agent.

9. National Geographic Expeditions

Launched in 1999, National Geographic Expeditions leans into its parent company’s core values of exploration, science, education, and storytelling to offer exceptional guided tours on all seven continents. From exploring the Swiss and Italian Alps by train to photographing Machu Picchu at sunrise, National Geographic Expeditions takes you to some of the most celebrated natural wonders, archaeological sites, and wildlife-rich destinations in the world. 

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A guided trip with National Geographic Expeditions is all about meaningful exploration of the world and its many cultures. Whether by land, small ship, train, river cruise, or even private jet, you can expect a guided tour that goes way beyond the ordinary. And with itineraries geared specifically for photographers, families ( in partnership with G Adventures ), or independent travelers, you’ll be exploring alongside both like-minded travelers and subject matter experts. 

The company offers two unique ways to travel: National Geographic Signature Land tours, led by NatGeo experts, are its flagship trips and feature high-end accommodations, special access to field researchers and sites of interest, and even photography workshops; National Geographic Journeys, led by local guides, utilize mid-range hotels and blend hands-on exploration with more free time to explore on your own. Many National Geographic Expeditions trips also offer pre- and post-trip extensions.

The National Geographic Lifelong Explorers program offers loyalty discounts for return guests. Additionally, a portion of the proceeds from each trip helps fund the National Geographic Society’s research and conservation programs around the world.

Quick Facts about Guided Travel Tours with National Geographic Expeditions

• Average guided tour group size: 16 to 25 people per departure; cruises are all in small ships under 200 passengers.
• Price category: Premium (National Geographic Signature Expeditions); budget to moderate (National Geographic Journeys).
• What’s included: Meals, accommodations, excursions, services of a National Geographic Expert, ground transportation, most transfers, baggage handling, most gratuities (for National Geographic Signature Land); some meals, accommodations, excursions, local guides, ground transportation, and some transfers (for National Geographic Journeys).
• What’s not included: Airfare, some meals, and some gratuities.
• Primary audience: Photographers and families with a passion for learning.
• How to book: Directly through National Geographic Expeditions or through a travel agent.

The budget-friendly member of the Globus family of travel brands (alongside Globus and Avalon Waterways ), Cosmos offers a range of tours around the world but has a particularly strong focus on European tours. Cosmos offers similar itineraries to its sister brand Globus but brings costs down by opting for good-but-more-budget-minded accommodations. While Cosmos is best known for its coach tours, the company also offers small group trips, off-the-beaten-path itineraries in popular destinations, event-focused tours, and Christian faith-based trips that highlight religious history in the Holy Land, Italy, Spain, and Portugal.

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Cosmos runs tours on five continents spanning more than 60 countries. Among its most popular destinations are Great Britain and Ireland, Canada, France, Greece, Italy, Portugal, Spain, and the United States. Many of the company’s tour directors hail from the country in which they lead tours, and a number of them have spent decades with Cosmos. The company also employs local guides to help with additional on-the-ground aspects of its tours. Cosmos offers a Welcome Back Credit loyalty program. Each trip earns up to a $250 credit toward a future trip with Globus, Cosmos, or Avalon Waterways.

Quick Facts about Group Tours with Cosmos 

• Average guided tour group size: 36 guests (standard coach tours); 20 to 24 guests (small group tours).
• Price category: Budget.
• What’s included: Hotels, guided city sightseeing excursions, ground transportation, and some meals.
• What’s not included: Airfare, optional excursions, gratuities; flights and airport transfers can be purchased at additional cost from Cosmos.
• Primary audience: Adults in their early to mid 50s.
• Destinations: Europe, South America, Central America, North America, Asia, Africa, and Oceania.
• How to Book: Directly through Cosmos or through a travel agent.

11. Overseas Adventure Tours (O.A.T.)

Part of the Grand Circle family of companies that also includes Grand Circle Travel and Grand Circle Cruise Line, Overseas Adventure Travel (also called O.A.T.) is a small group adventure travel tour specialist offering guided tours on all seven continents. O.A.T.’s tour group guests are over the age of 50 and many are solo travelers looking to join like-minded travelers on active itineraries around the world.

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Why is O.A.T. is so popular with older solo travelers? One reason is that the company rarely charges a single supplement on its trips. A fair number of the company’s guided tour itineraries also have women-exclusive departures. Overseas Adventure Travel rates all of its tours by activity level ranging from one (easy) to five (strenuous). The company operates more than 60 unique trips on all seven continents. Both multi-country and single-country tours are offered; some itineraries focus on culture while others have an ecological focus.

Unlike many other guided tour companies, O.A.T.’s prices typically include airfare, though guests also have the option to book their own flights. Overseas Adventure Travel’s loyalty program is the Sir Edmund Hillary Club , which offers benefits beginning with your third trip.

Quick Facts about Guided Tours with Overseas Adventure Travel (O.A.T.)

• Average guided tour group size: 13 people.
• What’s included: Airfare, most meals, all transportation, accommodations, activities, and gratuities for local guides.
• What’s not included: Gratuities for trip leaders, some meals; airfare can also be booked separately.
• Primary audience: Active adults over 50, particularly solo travelers.
• Destinations: Europe, Africa, North America, South America, Middle East, Oceania, and the Polar regions.
• How to Book: Directly through OAT or through a travel agent.

12. Intrepid Travel

Sustainable and experience-rich travel is the heart and soul of everything Intrepid Travel does. The not-for-profit group travel tour operator runs trips geared toward young adults, women, solo travelers, active travelers, and families, and it generally attracts like-minded guests who value responsible travel, conservation, and respect for indigenous cultures. In fact, many of Intrepid’s most compelling guided tours make personal connections with local communities a centerpiece of the experience.

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Intrepid offers a wide range of trip styles and themes to suit a variety of audiences: Basix caters to independent travelers who prefer free time to explore on their own; Original tours include a mix of activities and free time; Comfort goes at a relaxed pace; and Premium tours offer the best accommodations, most comfortable transportation, and exclusive experiences. Different themes include Active, Food, Expeditions, Family, Solo, 18 to 29s, and Trekking, among others. Travelers are automatically enrolled in the Intrepid Insiders program with their first trip. The loyalty program offers advance notice of sales and new trips.

Quick Facts about Guided Tour Operator Intrepid Travel

• Average guided tour group size : 12 people.
• What’s included: Accommodations, local transport, and some meals.
• What’s not included: Airfare, travel insurance, and tips.
• Primary audience : Adults ages 25 to 40.
• Destinations : Europe, Africa, North America, Central America, South America, Middle East, Oceania, and the Polar regions.
• How to Book: Directly through Intrepid or through a travel agent.

13. AdventureWomen

The women’s-only travel group AdventureWomen makes it easy for female travelers to explore the world in a safe and meaningful way alongside other women. Founded in 1982, AdventureWomen now offers nearly 50 tours across more than 65 counties. AdventureWomen’s guided travel tours for women welcome solo female travelers, women traveling together, mother-daughter pairs, sisters, and more. Each tour description clearly outlines the required fitness level for the journey. 

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The company’s most popular guided tours include a wintertime tour of Iceland to view the Northern Lights, a Galapagos Islands wildlife cruise by private yacht, and a journey along Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast. These guided women’s only adventure tours include lodging, ground transportation, most meals and activities, guides, and some gratuities. AdventureWomen’s average tour group size is on the small side, with tours generally welcoming 12 to 15 women per departure. Guests often credit the small group size for fostering camaraderie with other travelers on these guided tours. 

Quick Facts about Guided Tour Company AdventureWomen

• Average guided tour group size: 12 to 15 people.
• What’s included: Accommodations, most meals and activities, ground transportation, tour guides (called Managers), and some gratuities.
• What’s not included: Pre- and post-trip transportation, alcohol, some gratuities, and certain meals.
• Primary audience: Women seeking to travel with other women.
• Destinations : Europe, Africa, North America, Central America, South America, and the Middle East.
• How to Book: Directly through AdventureWomen or through a travel agent.

14. Abercrombie & Kent

A pioneer in the world of luxury small group trips, Abercrombie & Kent has been operating guided tours for more than 60 years. These days, the tour company runs trips on all seven continents spanning more than 100 countries. Each of Abercrombie & Kent’s small group tours is run by a Resident Tour Director who remains with the group throughout the trip, while additional specialized local guides help travelers enjoy one-of-a-kind insider experiences.

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Because Abercrombie & Kent is a luxury tour operator, accommodations tend toward high-end hotels wherever possible. Participants are often Gen X and Boomers. Guests are automatically enrolled in the company’s Marco Polo Club loyalty program on their third journey with Abercrombie & Kent. 

Quick Facts about Guided Tours with Abercrombie & Kent

• Average guided tour group size: 14 people.
• Price category: Upscale/premium.
• What’s included: Inter-trip flights, upscale accommodations, luggage transfers, meals, mid-journey laundry services, all activities, and expert guides.
• What’s not included: Airfare to and from your trip destination.
• Primary audience: Adults aged 40 and older.
• How to Book: Directly through Abercrombie & Kent or through a travel agent.

15. Exodus Travels

A worldwide adventure travel tour operator, Exodus Travels offers small group and independent cycling, walking, hiking, wildlife, and cultural tours in nearly 90 countries across all seven continents. Exodus has operated small group guided tours, self-guided tours, and private tours around the world since 1974, and today offers more than 500 unique tours ranging from popular locales like the Amalfi Coast in Italy to remote destinations like Tajikistan. 

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The company’s small group tours average between eight to 16 guests and utilize local trip leaders and experienced local guides. Solo travelers comprise nearly half of Exodus’s guests, who are given the option to pay a single room supplement or share a room with another guest at no additional charge. For those who want the convenience of a curated trip (pre-planned accommodations, activities, and transportation) without the constraints of traveling with a group, Exodus’s self-guided options give you freedom and flexibility to explore on your own. 

While Exodus is popular with budget-minded travelers, the company also offers premium guided tours to some popular destinations. A partnership with the African Wildlife Foundation allows Exodus to offer luxury safaris, for example. Guests are automatically enrolled in the tour operator’s loyalty program, called Exodus Collective , after two trips. Exodus Collective offers special discounts and members-only sales. After your seventh trip, you’ll be upgraded to the company’s Pioneer level, which comes with even greater discounts and perks. 

Quick Facts about Guided Tour Operator Exodus Travels

• Average guided tour group size: 8 to 16 people.
• Price category: Budget to upscale.
• What’s included: Accommodations, some meals, activities, and local guides.
• What’s not included: Airfare, airport transfers, and gratuities.
• Primary audience: Adventure travelers, solo travelers, and active independent travelers.
• How to Book: Directly through Exodus or through a travel agent.

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Tour Scoop’s team of travel experts brings you in-depth tour company overviews, tour itinerary reviews, the latest tour news, and travel tips and advice written just for guided tour travelers like you.

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8 reasons to choose a guided tour

Want to get the most out of your adventure holiday and accomplish things you otherwise wouldn’t have thought possible? Prefer to take the hassle out of planning transport, food and logistics? A guided trip is a convenient and stress-free way to discover a new destination with all the trip details already organised for you, and with a team to support you every step of the way.

This is especially the case when you're looking to explore more remote destinations where food drops are needed, when you prefer an experienced guide on hand to keep you on track, or when carrying a full pack with all your camping gear seems overwhelming and tiring.

The addition of a local guide also allows you to better appreciate and truly immerse in the culture of the place you are visiting. Plus, you'll have the chance to forge life-long friendships with like-minded travellers.

Still unsure? Read on as we unpack eight reasons why you can get more out of a destination when on a guided tour.

1. Local and knowledgeable guides

Secret spots, tips and the best of laughs, it takes a special kind of person to be a guide. In addition to being friendly and engaging, they are skilled at getting groups to interact and become fast and lifelong friends.

Guides have a special knack for making good trips great. From informative daily briefings, funny stories over dinner and pep talks when the going gets tough, guides strive to make sure that things are fun and that you are having the trip of a lifetime. 

If you’re new to the area, don’t speak the local language or just want good advice; tour guides can be an invaluable resource. Our local guides are passionate about their country or region you are exploring and will help bring to life the history, culture, flora and fauna of their homelands. They are often what make your walking, cycling or rafting adventure extra special.

As well as knowing hidden gems, our professional team of local guides and tour leaders can enhance your adventure so you can focus on your outdoor experiences and less about getting lost or what happens should you get into an accident.

Our guides also know about environmental regulations and local customs, so you can rest assured that the correct protocols are being followed. You’ll also be supporting the local economy of the destination you are visiting with your money going back to local businesses and its community.

2. Increased chance of success

Want to reach the prized summit of Kili or have always wanted to trek in the Himalayas but were too worried about altitude sickness? Our guides and tour leaders are highly experienced; they’ve seen it all and can help you overcome the biggest of hurdles.

Think of your tour leader or guide like personal trainers that will help you push your limits and walk that final kilometre or gear up for a long climb with their “can do” attitude.

While our team tries to ensure that travellers are of an adequate fitness level to complete their chosen adventure, we recommend guided trips for people who are nervous about their fitness level and capabilities and may benefit from the support of an experienced guide.

3. Added support

Our tour leaders are with you from the time your trip commences until it concludes and work tirelessly to ensure your holiday runs smoothly. Our team understands our travel style and expectations of an active holiday and can tailor trips to the group’s interests, that way everyone has a great experience.

For cycling trips , even though you’re travelling in a small group, you can still ride at your own pace – as far or as little as you feel comfortable – knowing a support vehicle is close by for you to hop on should you want a break from your cycle.

4. Convenience

You can forget the stress of researching the best walking or cycling routes for hours on end, or where the next town is to find food. Leave the planning and the boring stuff to the experts so you can focus on the exciting adventure ahead. Our guided itineraries are fully supported with plenty of quality inclusions – from comfortable accommodation to hearty, delicious meals.

5. Comfort, value and more inclusions

Enjoy the best hand-picked accommodation and restaurants to make sure you get a high-quality experience and have somewhere comfortable to relax and unwind after a long day on foot or bike. We'll keep you energised for your adventure with most meals and dietary requirements catered for and snacks provided.

The inclusiveness of a guided holiday showcases great value for a quality experience, with the added flexibility of tailoring your experience based on your interests and fitness level.

6. Safety first

The guides are your eyes and ears of a tour and are trained to problem solve in difficult or unsafe situations (including medical emergencies). Having them around definitely takes the edge off should things not go as expected. It's always reassuring to know you are in safe hands with our experienced team.

7. Get access to more of the destination

With all the logistics taken care of and a support team backing you from beginning to end of your trip, you can simply focus on your beautiful surrounds and enjoy the solitude between walks or rides.

World Expeditions have been pioneering remote, "out there" adventures on paths less travelled for over 45 years, crafting itineraries that allow travellers to delve deep into the culture and nature of a destination. So, it definitely helps to choose an experienced adventure specialist for your guided tour to get the chance to explore places you could not easily get to on your own.

8. Reduce your environmental footprint

While the active elements of your adventure by bike, on foot or on water does not emit carbon emissions, World Expeditions have calculated any emissions from your accommodation and have purchased credits in renewable projects so that you can be assured that your adventure tour is 100% carbon offset. This means, by travelling with World Expeditions, you are directly supporting renewable energy and reforestation projects; another reason why your tour has nothing but a positive impact.

The bottom line: Are guided group tours worth it?

If you want to take the hassle out of planning and worrying about the safety and logistics of your trip, then signing up for a guided tour can make more sense than trying to go it alone. You can forget spending nights researching the best accommodation, transfer connections, trying to snatch up limited permits or figuring out a food budget since meals aren’t included. It may end up being cheaper than you think – especially for solo travellers who dread the single supplement surcharges – with additional values and lots of inclusions as part of the package.

The comfort and ease of having everything organised for you takes away the stress when going on an active holiday. Plus, the extra support and experience of a guide and the chance to travel with and meet like-minded people makes a guided group tour much more attractive.

In the end, it will depend on what you want out of your adventure and the conveniences you are after.

Start browsing our range of highly inclusive small group holidays >

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9 Reasons to Choose a Guided Tour

A guided trip is a convenient and refreshing way to discover and immerse yourself in a new destination. All the trip details are already organized for you, and there’s a team to support you every step of the way. This allows you to get the most out of your travels without the hassle of planning transport, accommodations, and other logistics leaving you with time and energy to be fully present and appreciate the places and people you are visiting.

First thing first. When you book a tour with us, here’s what’s included:

• Round-trip Airfare – Except for our U.S. and Canada tours, you can book our group flight departing from the U.S. You may also choose to travel on a “tour only” basis to book your own airfare and meet the group at the destination.
• Transportation – Travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned motor coach with a professional driver. In-destination airport transfers (when joining the group flight), additional flights, and other required transportation are always included.
• Accommodations – All overnight stays are reserved in conveniently-located, first-class hotels.
• Many Meals – Enjoy daily breakfasts as well as select lunches and dinners. We often leave a few meals open for you to go out and choose your own culinary adventure.
• Sightseeing Tours – Admissions and reservations to the destination’s top highlights are all taken care of before you depart.
• Tour Director – A professional, English-speaking local tour guide is with you throughout the entire trip. These passionate individuals, a local from the destination you’re visiting, elevate our tours making them truly unforgettable experiences.

There are many reasons why signing up for a guided tour makes more sense than trying to go it alone. It’s helpful to understand what to expect. Read on as we unpack nine reasons you should choose a guided tour!

Convenience

Spend less time planning and more time exploring.

The great thing about a guided tour is that all the work is done for you. Our goal is for you to be whole-heartedly invested in your experience-which means the less you have to worry about, the better your trip will be. That’s where we come in; we combine all the components that make up the perfect trip, from hand-picked accommodations and comfortable transportation to the best sightseeing and experiences. No researching and booking multiple hotels, worrying about check-in times, or concerns about what transportation is best. And no wandering around aimlessly trying to get your bearings or waiting in long lines for tickets. Our well-organized itineraries make sure you see all the best sites and hidden gems with free time mixed in too.

We know what’s best!

Our group of travel experts work hard to put together guided tour packages that tick all the boxes for a perfect vacation. Years of experience and connections around the globe make it possible for us to create itineraries that are well paced, educational, and include the ideal mix of iconic sites, hidden gems, and leisure time to explore independently.

We know how to minimize long travel days, ensure the pacing aligns best with the destination, find special tours you might not find yourself, and so much more. When we do the planning, you won’t waste a single movement of your trip!

Our professional team of local guides and tour leaders enhance your adventure!

The benefits of traveling with an expert guide are arguably the best part of this touring style. The number one thing we hear from our travelers is how much they loved their guide and what they brought to the trip. It’s one of the reasons we see our guests return over and over again because it’s hard to go back to traveling on your own after you’ve experienced it.

It takes a special kind of person to be a tour guide. Ours are friendly, engaging, and passionate individuals who are there for you every step of the way. They speak English as well as the local language and are an invaluable resource that gives advice on everything and anything. They will share tips about what to do in your free time, show you the best restaurants and shopping in the area, and provide other helpful information. Tour guides are a wealth of knowledge and are happy to answer all your questions. They’ll do everything they can to ensure you have the very best experience when in their care.

While your local tour guide is along for the whole trip, you’ll also have the opportunity to interact with local guides throughout the tour. On these occasions, the guides will provide specialized information about the specific city or site you’re visiting.

Don’t forget about your driver! While you’re relaxing in the air-conditioned motorcoach as you travel between cities, your experienced and vetted driver will be at the wheel. They’ll know how to navigate the roads, how to avoid traffic, and where to park to get you to all your sites safely and on time.

Participating in group travel opens up more opportunities!

Guided group tours cover the most exciting and interesting sights in a time-efficient manner. Tickets and visit times are pre-arranged, eliminating long waits or the chance of something selling out. We’re also able to secure entrance to places that can be difficult to confirm on your own, set up immersive interactions that connect you with local communities, and get access to special experiences that might not be offered to everyone.

Cultural Immersion

Get first-hand knowledge of the destination’s customs, traditions, and people.

Many of our itineraries include visits to family homes or small businesses where you can meet and talk with locals beyond the usual traveler interactions with hotel personnel, restaurant servers, and other travelers. On our guided group tour of Italy with Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast , for example, you get the opportunity to stop at local wine and food spots to learn more about the cuisine and culture. This provides a more authentic experience than traveling on your own.

Also, tour guides will often give you personal insights about themselves. How they live, their religion and beliefs, what they do for fun, and other experiences they’ve had. You can learn a lot about the local culture by talking to your tour guide.

Companionship

A great way to meet others.

While we ensure that our group sizes are never too large, there is something special about traveling with other people that have mutual interests. Whether you’re traveling solo, with a spouse, other family members, or with friends, you’ll get to enjoy the company of others that are sharing the same experience as you. Our guests have forged life-long friendships with their groupmates, many even traveling together again on their next trip!

A full team of travel experts with you every step of the way!

From the first time you call to returning home from your trip, we are here to help you through every part of your journey. We’ll answer questions before you book and provide information as your tour is approaching, including visa and other entry requirements. And during your trip, not only do you have a professional guide with you, but we also have partners on the ground and an entire team located in the U.S. that’s ready to assist. The peace of mind you get from having round-the-clock support makes the trip even more enjoyable!

We negotiate the best rates for you to get the most value out of your package!

Some people think guided trips cost more than going on your own, but that’s not the case. Our team is able to secure group deals on flights, lodging, meals, admissions, and more and package them together, creating incredible savings for you! Guided trips save you money and provide the best value for the most inclusions without sacrificing quality. You can see the most incredible sights and have the best time without worrying about breaking the bank- what’s better than that?

Someone always has your back!

Guided tours are a safer way to travel than exploring on your own. We carefully vet our hotels and itineraries with safety in mind. Tour guides are fluent in the local language and are trained to problem-solve in difficult situations, including medical emergencies. Having them around is extremely beneficial should things not go as expected. When you travel with a group, you have peace of mind knowing you’re under the care of people who know what they’re doing.

Ready to join a group tour?

If you want to take the hassle out of planning and stop worrying about the safety and logistics of your trip, then signing up for a guided tour is a great choice. The comfort and ease of having everything organized for you add to the already incredible value a group tour offers. Plus, the extra support and experience of a guide, and the chance to travel with and meet like-minded people, make a guided group tour even more special. Join us and experience it for yourself!

Whenever you’re ready to take a guided tour for your next vacation, reach out to us – we know how to see the world!

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Solar eclipse glasses are needed for safety, but they sure are confusing. What to know.

Editor's note: An updated cloud forecast for the April 2024 total solar eclipse is in. Read the latest eclipse forecast and news as of Wednesday, April 3 .

You can't control the weather or the traffic , but one thing you can do right now ahead of the total solar eclipse is to get yourself a pair of special eclipse glasses , so you can safely view the cosmic spectacle.

The total eclipse will cross over a dozen states as it traverses from Texas to Maine on the afternoon of April 8.  Millions of people are expected to travel  to see it.

Astronomers and other experts say that eclipse watchers should wear  specialized eyewear  crafted to  protect your sensitive retinas  from permanent damage. And that means eclipse glasses .

Fortunately, solar eclipse glasses are still readily available  from plenty of vendors across the internet. Unfortunately, there's fears of fake glasses , and sometimes testing your glasses at home is the best way to know if they're safe.

Here's  what to know  about eclipse glasses and where you can get a pair of your own.

Where to find solar eclipse glasses

As the eclipse approaches, many places like local libraries, astronomical observatories, schools and other public agencies are providing proper eyewear, often for free.

Or you can just order them on the internet: Many eclipse websites like GreatAmericanEclipse.com and NationalEclipse.com sell a variety of eyewear products, along with plenty of other gadgets one may need to see the eclipse.

Of course,  Amazon  and plenty of other online retailers are also selling solar eclipse glasses in bulk, meaning you'll have plenty to share with your friends and family. American Paper Optics, the nation's largest supplier of eclipse glasses, even offers  express shipping  across the country.

More: You'll need eye protection for the solar eclipse. Here's what to know about safety glasses

Watch out for fake glasses

With online platforms like Amazon listing thousands of eclipse viewers, fears of fake or counterfeit glasses have grown.

"We do see glasses coming from China that have printing on them that say they're made in the U.S. or that they are made by one of the American manufacturers," Rick Fienberg, the project manager of the American Astronomical Society's solar eclipse task force, told USA TODAY.

When in doubt, buyers should refer back to the list of  official sellers and manufacturers maintained by the AAS , which communicates directly with sellers and manufacturers and checks test reports.

The list includes well-known North American manufacturers like American Paper Optics, as well as several large grocery and retail chains in the U.S. like Walmart, Lowe's and Kroger.

More: How to safely watch the total solar eclipse: You will need glasses

Real, but rare, examples of eye damage

Doctors and a rare set of eclipse watchers have warned  about watching the eclipse without adequate eclipse glasses or with the naked eye that has resulted in rare cases of eye damage. The damage occurs because people's natural response to squint when looking at direct sunlight does not get triggered when a partial eclipse happens.

Such was the case with one Staten Island woman who  watched the 2017 eclipse using faulty glasses that caused severe retinal damage. Doctors from Mount Sinai's New York Eye and Ear Infirmary chronicled this luckily rare case in  JAMA Ophthalmology , a medical journal. The woman told doctors that she had  gazed at the moon passing in front of the sun  through what she  thought were protective glasses . The damage on her left retina, the area at the back of the eye where the brain receives images, looked like the shape of a partial  eclipse .

"It's a very focused beam of high-energy light from the sun itself,” Dr. Avnish Deobhakta, an ophthalmologist at the Mount Sinai infirmary who treated the woman, told USA TODAY. “It can actually destroy parts of the retina, and certainly destroy it in the shape of an eclipse.”

How can you test eclipse glasses?

NASA shared an easy method to check eclipse glasses at home.

Buyers should put on their glasses and look at a bright light, like a flashlight. If the light is "extremely dim," or doesn't appear at all, the glasses are safe, Susannah Darling, of NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center, said in an instructional video. Viewers should be able to see the filament of the lightbulb, not the glow surrounding the bulb.

Get free glasses

With safety in mind, there are ways to get free solar eclipse glasses .

The online eye retailer Warby Parker is offering members of the public a pair of ISO-certified glasses starting Monday. Warby Parker retail locations nationwide, find one  here.

But there are plenty of other retailers giving out free glasses that range from Smoothie King to the protein bar Perfect Snacks, which will give out glasses alongside a chocolate brownie flavor.

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Guided Tour of Blood Components Processing Lab at UCLA

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Did you ever wonder what happens to the blood donated by students/faculty/staff at Ackerman? Now is your chance to find out when you join us for fascinating tour of our Component Processing Lab. You will see how donated blood is tested, processed, and prepared to be transfused to one of our patients. • Tour Location: CHS Building, UCLA Campus (we will meet at the Career Center, 2nd floor and walk to CHS) • Guide: Tom King, UCLA BPC • Tour time: 40 mins • More info: https://www.uclahealth.org/news/what-happens-your-blood-after-you-donate • Note: Space is limited to 15 attendees, so please email Tom King for further questions at [email protected] • Can’t attend the tour? Consider a blood donation today!

Pre-Health Services at the Career Center are listed here: https://career.ucla.edu/resources/ucla-pre-health-resources/

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Chiricahua National Monument celebrates 100 years with free tours, guided hikes

Chiricahua National Monument was established on April 18, 1924, by President Calvin Coolidge to protect the “Wonderland of Rocks” in southeastern Arizona that includes an 8-mile scenic drive and 17 miles of hiking trails.

Spanning over 12,025 acres in the Chiricahua Mountains southeast of Willcox, Chiricahua National Monument is celebrating its centennial with a slate of events Thursday through Saturday, April 18-20.

On Thursday there will be a commemoration ceremony; on Friday, a living history experience at Faraway Ranch; and on Saturday there will be a guided bird walk and a “Story Behind the Scenery: Geology Chiricahua Style” program.

Here’s what to know about Chiricahua National Monument's centennial celebration and how you can take part.

Arizona's 'Wonderland of Rocks': Chiricahua National Monument celebrates 100 years

Chiricahua National Monument centennial tours, hike

Thursday, April 18: The commemoration ceremony is at 2 p.m. at Faraway Ranch, the former homestead in the monument. Local and national dignitaries will be in attendance. Music starts at 1:30 p.m. Refreshments will be provided. Faraway Ranch House and Stafford Cabin will be open for self-guided tours from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and 3:30-4:30 p.m.

Friday, April 19: The living history event is 1-4 p.m. at Faraway Ranch. Staff in 1920s and '30s clothing will share what life was like in Bonita Canyon 100 years ago. Faraway Ranch House and Stafford Cabin will be open for self-guided tours from 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

Saturday, April 20: A guided bird walk is from 9-11 a.m. in the Bonita Creek Picnic Area. Visitors can observe birds, identifying them by sight, sound and habitat. Bring water, sun protection and binoculars. The 30-minute “Story Behind the Scenery: Geology Chiricahua Style” program will be presented on the hour from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. at Massai Point.

Chiricahua National Monument centennial shuttle and parking info

The visitor center will be open 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. during the centennial celebration. There will be no hiker shuttle service April 18 and 19.

On April 18 and 19, Massai Point, Echo Canyon and Sugarloaf parking lots will be open. Faraway Ranch parking lot will be closed with an exception for vehicles with a disability plate or placard.

Centennial event parking will be available just outside the park entrance. Free shuttles will stop at Faraway Ranch and the visitor center.

On April 20, all parking lots will be open. A hiker shuttle will be provided from Faraway Ranch to Echo Canyon parking lot on the hour from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. and from Echo Canyon parking lot to Faraway Ranch on the half hour from 10:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

On all three days, vehicles over 24 feet, trailers and horses are prohibited except for vehicles and trailers with a campground reservation.

Do you have to pay to get into Chiricahua National Monument?

No. Chiricahua National Monument is free to enter. There's a fee for camping in Bonito Canyon Campground.

What is the closest city to Chiricahua National Monument?

Chiricahua National Monument is 36 miles southeast of Willcox, Arizona. It has lodging, restaurants, wine tasting rooms, grocery shopping and other services.

Details: www.nps.gov/chir/centennial.htm .

A 4th Arizona national park? State officials want national park status for Chiricahua

Reach the reporter at   [email protected] . Follow   @dina_kaur  on X, formerly known as Twitter.

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8 Norwegian Cruise Passengers Stranded on African Island Catch Up to Ship After Traversing 7 Countries

The group of stranded American and Australian passengers included four elderly people, one with a heart condition and a pregnant woman

Natalia Senanayake is an Editorial Assistant, Lifestyle at PEOPLE. She covers all things travel and home, from celebrities' luxury mansions to breaking travel news.

Sipa via AP

• Nine Norwegian Cruise Line passengers were reportedly left behind on the African island of São Tomé and Príncipe on March 27 
• The group was on a guided excursion that got delayed, leading them to miss the ship’s "all aboard" call 
• A statement from Norwegian Cruise Lines noted that all guests are responsible for returning to the docked ship at the designated call time 
• Eight people were able to catch up to the ship on Tuesday morning after reportedly traversing seven countries.
• One, who had fallen ill before the incident, has safely returned to the U.S.

Multiple passengers were stranded on an island in Africa after their Norwegian Cruise Line ship reportedly left them behind. After several days of uncertainty and a trek across seven countries, they're now back on board the vessel.

On Wednesday, March 27, South Carolina couple Jill and Jay Campbell were enjoying a guided tour on the island of São Tomé and Príncipe located off the continent's western coast, ABC15 News reported at the time. The pair was with six other American and Australian passengers when they realized they wouldn’t make it back to the ship on time due to their tour taking longer than planned.

Though the tour operator contacted the cruise ship’s captain to inform them of the delay, the captain refused to let them back on the still-anchored ship when they arrived at the port because it was after the "all aboard" call, per the outlet. 

The São Tomé and Príncipe Coast Guard allegedly then took them by boat directly to the ship where the captain again did not permit them to board. 

The group later encountered another stranded passenger, an 80-year-old woman, who was hospitalized on the island after a cruise line tour, the outlet stated. The woman reportedly experienced memory and vision loss due to a medical emergency. 

In addition to the ill passenger, the group also includes one person who is pregnant, one with a heart condition and four elderly travelers. 

The majority of the group left their medications and credit cards on the ship except for the Campbells, who have reportedly paid over $5,000 for food, accommodations, and other necessities for their fellow passengers. 

On Sunday, the U.S. Embassy in Angola allegedly arranged for the group to fly to the West African country of Gambia, the ship's next planned port of call, so they could reboard. 

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Unfortunately, the group discovered the cruise ship wasn’t docked at the port in Gambia as planned because it had to spend another day at sea due to low tides. ABC News 4 reports the passengers spent fifteen hours traveling through six countries to make it to the port on Sunday. 

“We have to cross the ferry to get into Senegal,” Campbell told the outlet on Monday, marking their seventh country. “We just learned from the gentleman that the ferry hadn’t been working, but he said no problem, if the ferry is not working we will get another little boat and then pick up a car on the other side. And then once we get on the other side of Senegal, it’s another four-hour drive.” 

In a statement to PEOPLE, Norwegian Cruise Line said, “On the afternoon of March 27, 2024, while the ship was in São Tomé and Príncipe, an African island nation, eight guests who were on the island on a private tour not organized through us missed the last tender back to the vessel, therefore not meeting the all aboard time of 3 p.m. local time."

The statement continued, “While this is a very unfortunate situation, guests are responsible for ensuring they return to the ship at the published time, which is communicated broadly over the ship’s intercom, in the daily print communication and posted just before exiting the vessel.”

Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from juicy celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. 

The cruise line added that guests are “responsible for any necessary travel arrangements” to meet the ship at the next port and that they had each of their passports “delivered to the local port agents to retrieve” when they missed their all aboard call.

The group was finally able to catch up to the vessel. They reached Dakar, Senegal, its next port, on Monday night, PEOPLE confirmed.

After what they'd been through, Jill told NBC News in a story published on Tuesday, "We are considering whether or not we are going to board the ship. We believe there was a basic duty of care that they had forgotten about, so it does concern us." While she allowed that Norwegian technically followed protocol, she says, "I believe that they really forgot that they are people working in the hospitality industry and really the safety and well-being of the customers should be their first priority."

On Tuesday morning, the eight passengers, less the person who had fallen ill and later safely returned home to the United States, chose to board the cruise. Norwegian confirmed the news to PEOPLE in a statement.

"Despite the series of unfortunate events outside of our control, we will be reimbursing these eight guests for their travel costs from Banjur, Gambia to Dakar, Senegal. We remain in communication with the guests and are providing additional information as it becomes available,"

The Norwegian Dawn departed from Cape Town, South Africa, on March 20 for a 21-day trip that will end in Barcelona on April 10.

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Rockfall kills tour guide at popular tourist attraction in Ipoh

Tuesday, 09 Apr 2024

Related News

30 school kids among 178 people nabbed in joint enforcement op in Ipoh

Kuching native becomes new ipoh ocpd, ipoh international run set for a comeback in july.

IPOH: A 44-year-old tour guide was killed after a rock fell on his head at a popular tourist spot in Taman Saikat here.

Ipoh OCPD Asst Comm Abang Zainal Abidin Abang Ahmad said the victim, who was bringing a group of tourists from Vietnam to visit the city, died on the spot at about 11.30am on Monday (April 8).

"A postmortem conducted at the Raja Permaisuri Bainun Hospital corroborates the cause of death and there was no foul play.

"The case has been classified as sudden death," he said in a statement.

"The police welcome the cooperation of the people who may have information on the incident to contact the district police control centre at 05-254 2222 to assist with the investigation," he added.

Tags / Keywords: Ipoh , Police , Death , Rock , Vietnam , Taman Saikat

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The Olivia Rodrigo Guide to Girl-Power Menswear

By Eileen Cartter

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For every stop of her sold-out Guts World Tour, the singer Olivia Rodrigo hits the stage wearing a sent-up version of a complicated menswear artifact: the ribbed white tank top . She dons it ’90s Gwen Stefani-style, with the hemline hacked off at the midriff. Each night, Rodrigo deploys a new cropped tank printed with a different pithy catchphrase—“I kiss better than I cook,” “Ur mom,” or, in a direct nod to Stefani’s 1995 No Doubt hit , “I’m just a girl”—that recasts the plain garment as pointed stagewear.

(For her first New York City concert, Rodrigo’s “Carrie Bradshaw AF” shirt was appropriately cosmopolitan .)

Rodrigo’s usual tour wardrobe of combat boots, ripped fishnet tights, miniskirts is punkish, youthful, and proudly girly. It’s akin to her casual dressing off stage, where she incorporates easygoing, menswear-ish pieces (not unlike the ensembles of another Los Angeles-based Gen Z creative, Malia Obama ) in a manner that also feels punkish and proudly girly.

For her first New York City show, Rodrigo stuck to the Manhattan theme in her “Carrie Bradshaw AF” tank.

One recent chilly spring morning in between her sold-out MSG shows, she wore a black-and-white bouclé tweed coat and faded black jeans with a prim white dress shirt , thick-soled Doc Martens, and a rolled-up black beanie. She repurposed a few of the same garments some days later, rotating in a hefty wool overcoat and a pair of beat-up black Adidas Sambas—a shoe whose menswear bonafides have extended its popularity far beyond its intended consumers (indoor soccer players) to, now, pop stars and prime ministers .

For a Manhattan lunch with her musician pal Conan Gray , Rodrigo punctuated her go-to pieces (plaid miniskirt, torn nylon tights, Dr. Martens Mary Jane shoes) with an Acne wool coat and a playful vintage shirt from the very ’90s brand Human-i-tees. The now-defunct label specialized in illustrated graphic tees with neo-hippie slogans, like the one on Rodrigo’s shirt: “Harmonize with the world around you. Roll with the hills. Dance with the trees.”

(The Human-i-tees shirt I had growing up, which featured a majestic illustration of elephants with a slogan insinuating their forthcoming extinction, was slightly more distressing.)

In the manner of Taylor Swift , the trend of dressing on theme to attend live-music events has become a booming business, with concertgoers shelling out for outfits to fit the visual cues of an artist’s current work—or, as the case may be, their current “era.” Fans of Olivia Rodrigo, however, tend to dress like Olivia Rodrigo : the Doc Martens and Chuck Taylors, the plucky T-shirts, and plenty of plaid and denim. It’s a formula—killer vintage tee, statement coat, classic footwear—worth following, whether or not you plan on screaming your heart out in an arena alongside them.

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Fully Guided Tours & Trips in Japan

Find the right fully guided tour for you in Japan. There are 283 trips to choose from, that range from 5 days in length, up to 28 days. The month with the most departures is October, making it the most popular time to visit Japan.

250+ Fully Guided tour packages in Japan with 4,195 reviews

• In-depth Cultural
• Train & Rail
• Christmas & New Year

Japan Express: Osaka to Tokyo

Very friendly, knowledgeable tour guides. Very comfortable bus.

Contrasts of Japan end Tokyo

The trip was amazing! Everyone at the tour agency was accommodating and welcoming! If you’re a complainer in general, please take a private tour so you don’t spoil the experience for everyone else!

Epic Japan: Speed Trains & Street Food

The tour was great but with out van ratha it wouldn’t be the same he made my holiday he was on hand 24/7 great guy hope to travel with him in 2019

Japan: Tokyo Nights & Kyoto Temples

Tour was great! I had fun. CEO Sho and Tetsu were amazing in guiding us all over the locations and teaching the culture and history of shrines and streets. Catching trains & subways like ninjas, experiencing the bathing ways of japanese or using onsen is one of my favorite. Plus I’m with amazing young groups. I wish I had more time to discover more of places. I’l definitely come back!

Japan Adventure

My first experience with this company: five stars! The activities and accommodationd were high standards and we had a lot of free time as well to do our own things on the side. I was very lucky to have awesome group mates and an amazing guide who was very attentive and outstanding to lead us through all those places and transports. Already two bookings made for future travel with IntroTravel.

Japan Delight with Hiroshima(private 3 star hotel rooms)

It was delightful experience

Stunning Japan with Shirakawa-go (private 3 star hotel rooms)

Couldn’t have asked for a better guide. Phillip was knowledgable, organized, and funny. He defined the “stunning” in Stunning Tours.

• Coach / Bus

Central Japan End Kyoto

Great tour. Staff were lovely. Other guests were very friendly. There wasn't much d it in time and more walking than I had expected. All in all I had a great time and would go again.

• Food & Culinary

Japan Real Food Adventure

June 2023. Take this tour and you won't regret !

Japan Highlights

Loved seeing Japan. Very busy itinerary - 55 miles walked in 8 days but really enjoyable.

Epic 13-Day Japan Budget Tour: Odyssey Across the Land of the Rising Sun

Excellent trip. The guide was excellent and very helpful to all members of the group. Will definitely be going to Japan again, I hope with Dragon Trip.

• 5% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Back Roads of Japan

A great trip overall!

All Inclusive Japan Classics- 9 days

We had the most amazing time, cannot recommend this company enough! We will treasure the memories of this trip always

Contrasts of Japan

Good tour - maybe too many temples

Premium Japan

We had an amazing holiday. Japan was all we had hoped for. The group worked so well, we all got on and became good friends. Shingo, our guide was totally great. He was so pleasant and helpful. His English not brilliant but he did a great job. We felt maybe a little more information on places and sights might have been good. He was constantly helping us all and looking after us. He made great suggestions for meals and always checked up on us all, even when we split into smaller groups for the evening. He went way beyond what he could have done and made everyone feel safe and well looked after. He even helped booking all our onward travel and ensured we were all ok on the day. Wonderful man!! The hotels were nice, if a little small with almost no storage in most of them! Breakfasts were generally very good. We saw and did so much. In fact, we felt sometimes it was a little too much to fit into each day, and either missed some things out or were too rushed, missing stopping and looking at leisure at things and shops etc. Shingo was so patient, even when we caused him to run a little late! Due to distances covered we spent a lot of time travelling which was an interesting experience. Just meant time at destinations was a little short. As Most of us were older we all felt very tired at the end of each day and struggled especially when we had to carry back packs whilst waiting to be reunited with luggage. Dont know what the answer is, if extra days added, then expense goes up. If itinerary cut back, then Interesting sights missed out! Overall, a truly great trip. We enjoyed it all!

What people love about Fully Guided Tours in Japan

The guide was the best

Trip of a lifetime! The tour itself was well thought-out. Hotels were generally good, and some were outstanding. Our three teenage kids had a fantastic time. I would highly recommend spending a bit of time in Tokyo before and/or after the formal tour, because the tour is a bit light on time spent in Tokyo.

Japan was so fun! A looooooot of free time so do you researches about what to do and visit in every city. Would have love more ''organised'' activities (like a dinner every night with the group,...). Compared to other G Adventures tour I did in the past, I felt that this group was less stick together since there was only a few group activities.

Regions in Japan

• Southern Japan (244)
• Central Japan (240)
• Honshu (236)
• Northern Japan (14)
• Mount Fuji (12)
• Kansai (10)
• Hokkaido (8)
• Shikoku (7)

Travel Styles

• Fully Guided
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