Group tours allow the traveler to save time
and often money. Tour group companies have
done the research on what to see, where to
stay, and where to eat. They can negotiate
for better rates. Travelers are spared many
of the hassles of individual arrangements.
Groups offer the opportunity to meet new
people. There are group tours to suit every
age, budget, location, and length of vacation
time.
The following should be considered
when booking
a group tour:
- Can the tour company raise the price of the
tour after you have booked and paid in full
if their expenses increase? Is there a limit
on these increases?
- How many days do you actually get with the
tour? Is the company including time at the
beginning and end which usually involve traveling
to a starting point?
- Can the company change hotels and restaurants
without allowing you to cancel? This may
be important if you have your heart set on
staying or eating in a particular place.
If the company can make changes, what constitutes
"comparable" substitution?
- Can the company change the places to be visited?
Again you may have your heart set on seeing
a particular site -- it may be the very reason
for the trip. Can you cancel if they change
the itinerary?
- What is the company's policy if you have
to cancel because of an emergency?
Can you
get some kind of refund or
rebooking?
Finally, be sure to find out
if the price
includes taxes, tips and beverages. |
