Best Education & Learning Tour Companies

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28 Travel Providers meet your criteria (Providers 1 to 20 shown)

Exodus Travels Premier

Exodus Travels

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4.7 • Excellent
Total Trips 597 Trips
Average Price $ 312 per day
Size Global Operator
Service Level Standard
Operator Type Group Tour Operator

Amalfi Coast Walking Holiday

This walking holiday was excellent and good value for money. From our pick up at the airport to the return trip was very well organised and great fun. The family run hotel up in the hills was a perfect base for this holiday and the food / staff were 1st class. Both our Exodus guide and local guides were knowledgeable and friendly
5.0 • Evelyn Palmer

Borneo & the Malaysian Peninsula

Exodus Adventure to Borneo & Malaysian Peninsula excelled my expectations as an outstanding holiday. The Borneo experience of wildlife, knowledge then contrasted with the vibrant city of Kuala Lumpur, the history of Malacca & street food of George Town. Then to finish relaxation on the beautiful island of Langkawi.
5.0 • Sarah Hopcroft
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0

Was a fantastic trip to amalfi coast…

Was a fantastic trip to amalfi coast our tour guide veriano was fantastic I would definitely book a trip with exodus again extremely well organised
5.0 • siobhan stephens
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
With over 47 years of experience with small group adventure travel, Exodus specializes in active cultural, walking & trekking, cycling and responsible wildlife tours. They offer more than 600 itineraries across more than 100 countries. Adventure can take the form of serious and active adventures --  which may involve adrenaline-producing, off-the-beaten-path roughing-it trips to the most remote areas of the world -- or food and wine, premium (five-star), family, or cultural adventures to iconic destinations, which involve more comforts and amenities. What Makes Exodus Stand Out? Booking flexibility Award Winning Tailor made adventures Responsible tourism Expert guides with extensive past experience Exodus understands that new difficulty that comes with traveling during the coronavirus. They are dedicated to offering flexible services so travelers can book with confidence. Travelers can feel safe when planning their next trip with Exodus’s promised refund guarantee, Covid-19 refund commitment and 21-day no fee flexibility. The refund guarantee means that travelers will be refunded if they have to cancel for any reason. This also includes cancellations due to the coronavirus. Travelers can also transfer their trip for free up to 21 days before departure. Creating great and adventurous trips is the top priority for Exodus. They offer many pre-planned tours, but they also work with travelers to add or change existing itineraries or even create one from scratch. This allows travelers to create the perfect trip that fits their travel style, schedule and budget. Exodus is also dedicated to responsible travel in all of their tours. They strive to improve life for the planet, places and people they visit. Instead of meeting the base guidelines for eco-friendly travel, Exodus seeks more ways to leave a positive impact with their trips. This includes economic empowerment for local communities, reducing waste wherever possible and making lower carbon choices for their adventures. Each trip is led by a knowledgeable guide who has extensive past experience which adds benefits to any trip. Before working with Exodus, many guides were professional archaeologists, wildlife guides, overland drivers, mountain leaders, diving and ski specialists as well as mountain bike gurus. Who Will Enjoy Traveling with Exodus? All ages Active travelers Outdoor and nature enthusiasts Exodus travelers are a diverse bunch, and average between 35-65 years of age. However, any age traveler is welcome. Exodus creates great packages and tours for families as well as fully customized trips created from scratch. The Exodus traveler is very active, loves being adventurous, and will be less invested in luxury accommodations or a lot of museum time. You are game for anything, love the travel experience of getting to know a new destination through outdoor adventure, and learning about the culture from local guides and experts. These trips are great for those who already have a base level of physical fitness, and enjoy meeting new physical challenges. Exodus provides physical fitness guides to show how much training you should expect to do prior to departure. Top Destinations Exodus leads 600 + trips spanning all seven continents. From African safaris, to walking and wine in Italy and France to the sun-drenched Croatian coast, to trekking Patagonia, wildlife cruises in the Galapagos and cycling in Vietnam, Exodus has built out their global presence and has active adventures in nearly any destination a traveler could desire. Exodus Travel Style Exodus tours are designed for the active and adventurous traveler. This means that most tours include activities such as walking, cycling and safaris. However, for travelers who enjoy cultural and culinary, there are tours and activities for you as well. Exodus offers cultural trips based around food, festivals or family to name a few. These active adventures vary by way of difficulty from level 1-10, attracting casual cyclists and hikers as well as enthusiasts looking to really push their physical limits.  Travelers can choose from guided groups, private groups, self guided tours or solo traveling. Within each travel style, Exodus offers all the same activities from cycling to wildlife and provides the top itineraries for that specific style to help travelers find what’s best for them. Most accommodations are charming and locally run with 2-3 star ratings. There are some premium departures available as well as unique accommodation experiences whenever possible. Exodus travelers don’t mind the lower level of luxury as the experience and destination is the highest priority. Why Choose a Tour With Exodus? If you love experiencing a new destination whether that’s through the culture, unique wildlife or beautiful outdoors through active and adventurous activities, then Exodus is perfect for you. You love that sense of discovery, of challenging yourself and want to travel responsibly. Exodus offers great tours already fully packaged, but for the traveler that likes more control over their perfect trip, they offer customizable trips. Travelers get to choose not only the destination but each activity they will partake in to perfectly match their travel style and budget.
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Trafalgar Preferred

Trafalgar

#27 Pick of 164 Education & Learning Tour Companies

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4.6 • Excellent
Total Trips 291 Trips
Average Price $ 329 per day
Size Global Operator
Tour Length 4 – 30 days
Trip Prices $ 1,139 – $ 11,585
Service Level Standard
Operator Type Mixed Land & Cruise
Trips in Education & Learning 3455 Tours in Education & Learning

Highlight of Vacation experiences

The Ireland Highlights trip was filled with lots of local stops and shops you may not get through other companies. The trafalgar experience felt personal.
5.0 • Marcy Hillers

Great trip learned a lot

Rudy was an excellent guide extremely well informed Consideret hotels were great Jiovani a skilled bus driver not waiting in lines was wonderful Rudy also taught us about being cautious and safe
5.0 • Trusted Customer
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0

Best of Italy 2023

I loved that we were able to see so much of Italy! I enjoyed all of the sights immensely. I basked in the loveliness of the hotels in Assisi, Rome, Lake Maggiore and Florence. The others I could do without. Federica and Theo were phenomenal and I loved their working relationship!
5.0 • Trusted Customer
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
Southern Capitals - City Meets Bush
Southern Capitals - City Meets Bush Trip Style: Group tour
Australian Highlights
Australian Highlights Trip Style: Group tour
South America Revealed
South America Revealed Trip Style: Group tour
Trafalgar is a name many seasoned travelers will recognize. A branch of the Travel Corporation, whose brands all enjoy stellar reputations, Trafalgar has been offering classic and affordable tours for over 70 years. Trafalagar Tours - Quick Facts Founded: in 1947 Group size: Large Groups, between 40-45 people Mode of transportation: Primarily luxury air-conditioned coaches Accommodation style: Unique 3 & 4 star hotels and guest houses Typical age range: 50+ Single travelers welcome (single supplements are required, but often discounted) Average tour price: $3,796 Top Regions: Europe, USA, Canada Related TTC Brands: Insight Vacations, Uniworld, Brendan Vacations What Makes Trafalgar Tours Stand Out? Great value for pricing and inclusions Comfortable, not physically demanding tours Largely focused on cultural immersion  Hand-picked accommodations Strong reputation  Dedicated to responsible tourism - Founding member of TreadRight Foundation Good balance of free time and inclusions   Trafalgar is a group tour operator and one of the world’s most awarded tour companies. With over 70 years of experience, they unlock the best of the world from iconic experiences you’ve always dreamed of to getting to know the locals all while having everything taken care of for you every step of the way.   Tours with Trafalgar are comfortable, not too physically demanding, and offer the opportunity to meet, talk, eat and drink with locals. You’ll get to know chefs, artisans, craftsmen, historians, and farmers as you explore what makes each destination truly special. Trafalgar has a strong reputation, having been around since 1947 - putting them right at the pinnacle of when many premier guided tour companies were established. You’ll meet groups of like minded travelers, enjoy cultural experiences, expertly crafted itineraries with local touches and experiences guides, while traveling in comfort and ease. Who Will Enjoy Traveling With Trafalgar? Older travelers (but all ages are welcome) Families Mid to high range budget travelers Those who enjoy slow-paced itineraries and easy physical activity Those who favor historic sightseeing & cultural immersion over hard core adventure    If you are an active traveler, perhaps recently retired, eager to explore the world in comfort, visiting a nice combination of unique local spots and classic sites, then Trafalgar could be a great choice. Possibly you are new to group tours and packages, having been used to creating your own travel experiences at a younger age - Trafalgar provides the perfect introduction to group tours. You'll have plenty of free time to explore on your own, for shopping, sightseeing, and meals away from the group. Optional excursions are available throughout the itinerary for when you want a bit more structure. Families will also get a lot out of the Trafalgar travel experience. If you're seeking a family vacation and interested in introducing a new generation of travelers to your favorite country - but don’t really have the time or patience to worry about planning out all the logistics - Trafalgar could be a great choice. While they offer many trip styles, suitable for travelers of all ages, their classic touch is popular among older travelers. Classic doesn’t mean old fashioned or tired - simply a bit less on the active adventure and more on the historic sights and cultural experiences. They have a number of family focused tours, as well as tailored trips for special interests. Trafalgar trips are budget friendly, with most trips in middle to low range, including a “Cost Saver” feature that allows you to see more inexpensive trips broken down by ratings and cost clearly. They offer several deals on trips throughout the year. Trafalgar is a British brand, so many of the attendees on your tour will be from the UK.   Top Destinations Europe & the UK USA and Canada Australia & New Zealand Asia South America With Trafalgar, you can find trips to Europe, USA & Canada, South America, Asia, Australia & New Zealand. While the destinations are widespread, Trafalgar trips explore the culture and their highly trained local guides take you to hidden local spots without venturing too far outside the comfort zone. Tours in Europe and the UK are among the most popular itineraries, utlizing guest houses and even castles for accommodation!  Their USA & Canada tours are extremely popular for outdoorsy travelers. National Parks are a common itinerary item, as are trips along the Rocky Mountaineer railroad. In South America, Trafalgar travels to Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Ecuador and Peru. In Africa, they go to Egypt, Morocco, and South Africa. In Asia, it’s Cambodia, China, Japan, Thailand, and Vietnam. And in the Pacific, Trafalgar visits Australia and New Zealand - some trips in this region are more basic when it comes to accommodation so be sure to read the itinerary carefully! Wherever you go, you can expect high quality guides, unique destination-specific accommodations, and smooth travels. They also have a number of religious themed tours, including trips that include excursions to Oberammergau, Bavaria. Once a decade this small town presents a Passion Play, and Trafalgar has had special access since 1970. The next time to experience this unique event is 2020. Trafalgar Travel Style The Trafalgar travel style is all about getting to know the culture through activities and connecting with locals. Their main tagline is “Discover the Good Life”. On Trafalgar tours, you get to experience the real thing in a safe, escorted environment with knowledgeable guides there to help with the language and provide historical and cultural context. "Discovering the Good Life" encompasses perks like skipping lines and private access to classic sites; and unique experiences that bring you to places and among people you’d never have the chance to meet traveling on your own. This kind of travel is local immersion, but not in the same way a 25 year old might interpret that idea. Rather than bunking at hostels, going out late at night, and enjoying potentially questionable street food, you’ll stay in premium, centrally located and culturally significant accommodations - everything from bed and breakfasts in Ireland to hotels right on the banks of Norwegian fjords.   Learn cooking techniques in Italy, enjoy private winery tours at French chateaus, and touring a small olive farm in Spain are just a few examples of the kind of unique travel experiences you can expect with Trafalgar. Groups are large, typically between 40-45 travelers, a max of 52 on trips in the USA and Canada. Primary transportation during the tour is in large coaches, equipped with WiFi (with the exception of Alaska) and featuring large viewing windows - ideal for taking in the scenery as you head to your next spot on the itinerary.   Most meals during Trafalgar tours are included. Trips often include free time during which you can explore on your own, with suggestions from your expert guides. Why Choose a Tour with Trafalgar? Well known company Culturally rich experiences in comfort Many activities included, plus some optional choices All guides are expertly trained Large groups of international travelers Trafalgar has a solid reputation, and they stick to what they’ve done well for over 50 years. They focus on the classics, providing a culturally rich perspective as you meet locals along the way. Their experience has allowed them to cultivate relationships around the world with local businesses - quality control you can trust for every stop along the trip. Niche tours based on specialized interests are also something they are proud to offer. Trafalgar is where you go to have the essentials and logistics take care of seamlessly while you sit back and enjoy. Do note that these tours can be quite large - 40 people traveling together in a tour group can be stifling for some. While they appeal to an older crowd due to their history and recognizable name, Trafalgar has an impressively well integrated social media presence. Trips on their site are accompanied by instagram posts from real travelers who have been on the same tour, using the hashtag #SimplyTrafalgar. Old or young(ish), couple or single, traveling Simply Trafalgar inspires confidence, comfort, and enjoyment.
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Brendan Vacations

Brendan Vacations

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4.2 • Great
Total Trips 23 Trips
Average Price $ 244 per day
Size Regional Expert
Tour Length 7 – 24 days
Trip Prices $ 1,450 – $ 7,595
Service Level Standard
Operator Type Group Tour Operator
Trips in Education & Learning 172 Tours in Education & Learning

Find someone else

After waiting for 3 years we were finally scheduled to go to Ireland but 8 days before our trip we were informed that they had changed their vaccination policy and we couldn’t go. They refunded our money which they had for three years but although we requested a check, they refunded to a charge account that had been paid off so we only got a credit on a card we no longer use. Not to mention loss of airfares and hotel charges. We are so disappointed with their cavalier attitude and unprofessionalism.
1.0 • Mark

had a wonderful time

We just went on Iconic Ireland and Ashford Castle and had a wonderful time. This was our first bus tour and we didn't know quite what to expect, however, we couldn't have had a more perfect time. Ireland is a beautiful country and we were stunned and thrilled with all the beauty we were able to see. The hotels were great - some definitely better than others but all were comfortable. My only complaint was that our last hotel had no ac and Ireland was experiencing a heat wave so the fan didn't help very much. That wasn't anyone's fault and I just went with the flow. Barbara (our guide) and Marina (our driver) were great and genuinely seemed to be concerned with everyone's comfort. The grande finale of Ashford Castle was incredible. Such a beautiful place and to be able to stay a night there was incredible. I ended up doing the Hawk Walk and horseback riding and I would recommend both - especially the hawk walk to anyone - I think people who are good riders would probably get to do more than we did but it was still great. I would recommend Brendan and this trip to anyone. Perfect amount of down time and activity. Loved it!
5.0 • Barbara
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0

it was fabulous!

My husband and I recently went to Ireland on a Brendan Vacations tour...first tour we've even been on...and it was fabulous! From start to finish everything about the trip was perfect. Frances O'Doherty our Tour Director and Hugo our driver made this trip exceptional and unforgettable. Hugo's driving skills are phenomenal!! Frances is the sweetest, warmest, friendliest and most organized individual you'll ever meet. She is so knowledgeable about all things Irish and has a way of imparting that knowledge in a memorable and special way. I was a little nervous about staying in a different hotel every night and being on the go every minute but it was glorious. Our luggage was always handled for us, hotel check-ins were done in advance so we never had to go through check-in ourselves, meal vouchers and exhibit tickets were all prepared in advance, etc. It was totally seamless for everyone on the tour. It was a large group but we all became the best of friends by the end of the trip. We will definitely use Brendan Vacations in the future and highly recommend them to anyone interested in tour travel!!!
5.0 • Jo LaFalce
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
Britain and Ireland Grandeur (1)
Britain and Ireland Grandeur (1) Trip Style: Group tour
Britain and Ireland Grandeur
Britain and Ireland Grandeur Trip Style: Group tour
Irish Experience
Irish Experience Trip Style: Group tour
Brendan Vacations’ mantra of ‘taking you personally’ is at the core of everything they do.They are passionate about delivering authentic experiences and hand-crafted adventures throughout Ireland and Scotland that cater to every travelers’ dream. What Makes Brendan Vacations Stand Out? ExperienceFounded in 1969, Brendan Vacations has spent 50+ years honing its in-depth knowledge and exclusive connections to gregarious locals, vibrant culture, rich history and breathtaking sights that lead to profoundly immersive destination experiences. Local ExpertiseLed by Dublin-based Catherine Reilly, Managing Director for over 35 years, the local Brendan team consists of over 70 experts– from local hosts, to experienced chauffeurs and destination specialists. The Brendan Vacations team handcrafts each itinerary leveraging long-standing relationships with every hotelier, Travel Director, private chauffeur, local host and venue manager. Local hosts meet travelers along their journeys to give guests a deeper sense of the history and culture of the destination and provide them with insider tips on what not to miss from an insider perspective. Dedicated TeamGuided by its mantra, ‘taking you personally,’ Brendan Vacations distinguishes itself through experiences designed by a dedicated team passionate about delivering a completely authentic experience, tailored to guests needs and interests. Brendan Vacations’ guests meet storytellers, stay in hand-selected accommodations, explore Ireland and Scotland’s rugged edge of the world and enjoy Brendan Vacations’ highly personalized service. Who Will Enjoy Traveling with Brendan Vacations? Everyone! Culture-Seekers rejoice at the chance to immerse themselves in our lands steeped with history and legend. Foodies sip and savor every flavor as they taste their way across the Celtic Isles. Family Vacationers leave all the details to us as we take them on a journey that will entertain everyone, young and old. While outdoor-lovers find solace in our rolling hillsides, awe-inspiring coastlines and never-ending landscapes of green. Top Destinations They focus exclusively on Scotland and Ireland including Northern Ireland.  Brendan Vacations Travel Style Brendan Vacations offers five travel styles that give guests the freedom and flexibility to hit the road on any budget with carefree confidence. No matter which style, every Brendan Vacations experience gives travelers the opportunity to meet and mingle with locals, offering a glimpse of Celtic life through the eyes of those who call Ireland and Scotland home. Guided VacationsWe take the stress out of planning and reignite the joy and wonder of travel without the hassle. Less to coordinate means more to experience – Brendan Vacations books all your accommodations, transportation and must-see sights, as well as exclusive “Insider Experiences” and authentic opportunities to connect with the locals in their homes such as our “Be My Guest” where guests bond with the family over traditional cuisine and culture. While your Travel Director's local knowledge in every place makes each day of your trip seamless. Private ChauffeurWith personal transportation and expert guidance at travelers’ fingertips, Private Chauffeur vacations are a great travel style for families, couples and soloist travelers. As the most intimate, flexible and luxurious of the travel styles, these vacations are handcrafted by the Brendan Vacations team and are completely customizable to your needs. Lux Self-DrivePrivacy and luxury, meet freedom and independence in Brendan Vacations’ newest travel style, Lux Self-Drive. Travelers will enjoy exclusive experiences and high-class accommodations and the ability to drive themselves in style. Not only can the destination experts organize activities ranging from private tastings to exclusive tours, Brendan Vacations can also set travelers up with the locals in every area. Self-DriveIf you want total independence but still need support from the experts, look no further than Self-Drive with Brendan Vacations. We’ll help you map out your itinerary and pre-book accommodations that suit your style, and if you’re craving laughter and connection, we can introduce you to locals who can show you around and share their cultures. When you're ready to hit the road, your Hertz rental car will be ready for you. Locally Hosted RailOur popular Locally Hosted Rail experiences combine independent travel with local support. Pick your must-see cities and favorite accommodations, then kick back and relax as you experience the wonder of the Celtic Isles from a window seat. When you arrive at your destination a Brendan Local Host will greet you with a treasure trove of ideas on what to do, where to shop and what to eat and drink. If there’s no train available to the next destination on your itinerary, we’ll set you up with a Private Chauffeur so you can get where you need to go – travel is hassle-free with us. Why Choose a Tour With Brendan Vacations? With over 50 years of making friends in the community, we’ve learned a thing or two and can honestly say that no one knows Ireland and Scotland better than we do. It’s our long- standing relationships and local connections that bring our homelands to life and create the real magic behind every journey. We’re so glad you’ve found us and we can’t wait to share our stories with you.
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Insight Vacations Premier

Insight Vacations

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4.6 • Excellent
Total Trips 353 Trips
Average Price $ 340 per day
Size Global Operator
Tour Length 9 – 28 days
Trip Prices $ 3,350 – $ 12,794
Service Level Luxury
Operator Type Mixed Land & Cruise
Trips in Education & Learning 689 Tours in Education & Learning

We enjoyed the trip and our tour guide was great.

Excellent trip
5.0 • Trusted Customer
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0

Personal service a definite Plus+++++++++.

The personal touch was amazing. Margaret and john Luke are to be complemented. As a somewhat elderly and physically challenged person it felt definitely cared to and assisted.
5.0 • Michael Egger
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
Editorial Review: Enriching the lives of curious travelers since 1978, Insight believes incredible travel is more than visiting amazing destinations, it's about the connections you make and how you spend every moment, from authentic experiences that enrich the mind to stylish hotels that rest the soul.  Superior Dining and Dining Choices  An array of delicious dining experiences will enrich your journey. Each tour is infused with flavor, whether you’re being welcomed into the workspaces of chefs, taking your seat at acclaimed restaurants indulging in a curated selection of dining options that delight your palate to your choosing.   Premium Comfort  Travel on luxury coaches that feature double the legroom and personal space of a regular touring coach are customized for smaller groups. Bathroom facilities, device chargers, tray tables and drink holders complete this superior on-road experience. This level of comfort continues with our trusted 5 and 4-star accommodation partners, complemented by many relaxed morning starts and itineraries with a slower, leisurely pace.  Hand Selected Experiences  Go beyond sightseeing. Insight tours are filled with fascinating facts, interesting locals and special access, perfect for curious travelers who are looking for attention to detail. Enjoy personal anecdotes from Local Experts, historians and those in the know, and indulge in insights into culinary traditions and enlightening cultural experiences be it through music, dance and stories.  Personal Services  With your Travel Director taking care of the details and your every need, you’re free to indulge at the moment and savor each destination.  Their experience, passion and knowledge of the intricacies of each city, town and region allows them to help create your perfect journey, with your liking and interests in mind. Who Will Enjoy Traveling with Insight Vacations? 50+ Food and wine loves Inquisitive and curious travelers Affluent travelers Top Destinations Insight Vacations offers premium motor coach tours throughout Europe including the UK, North America, South America, Asia, and African destinations. Why Choose a Tour with Insight Vacations? Tour in style at a relaxed pace Unique Insight Experiences Average group size 35-40 Deliciously authentic dining Stress-free travel with a Travel Director to guide you   The Insight Vacations tagline is “the art of touring in style”. They take this idea seriously both pre-trip and while you’re on the ground. If you’re looking for luxury beyond the silk sheet stereotype, consider Insight Vacations. Everything is planned out to the letter, groups are small, and you experience personalized service and passionate travel guides every step of the way.
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Peregrine Adventures Preferred

Peregrine Adventures

#33 Pick of 164 Education & Learning Tour Companies

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4.7 • Excellent
Total Trips 13 Trips
Average Price $ 396 per day
Size Global Operator
Service Level Standard
Operator Type Group Tour Operator
Trips in Education & Learning 4 Tours in Education & Learning

Expect I'm not the only one

they are 'fair weather friends' I did not receive so much as an email advising of changes in the cancellation policy, discovered when I contacted them to cancel. I now receive automated emails/msgs as I attempt to work through this. The email states I may contact them on 31 July to discuss the matter!....4 months away. I'm absolutely stunned by how shoddy this outfit is....who knew?! Out of pocket $4000. Expect I'm not the only one.
1.0 • Jane

Highly Recommended

Currently experiencing “Cruising the Thai Islands” with Peregrine and I am loving everything! The local knowledge and immersive experiences are second to none and our guides are extraordinary
5.0 • Bec
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0

Highly Recommended

Currently experiencing “Cruising the Thai Islands” with Peregrine and I am loving everything! The local knowledge and immersive experiences are second to none and our guides are extraordinary
5.0 • Bec
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
With Peregrine Adventures, ‘anywhere is possible.’ Based in Australia, Peregrine has led small-group, ‘soft’ adventure-style trips worldwide for over 30 years. It was one of the first operators to employ local leaders, a practice that is now widespread in guided travel. What Makes Them Stand Out? While considering itself an adventure travel company, Peregrine promises to “smooth down the bumps and rough edges.” In short, it’s more about soft adventure with added comforts than roughing it. Group sizes are kept small, with no more than 16 travelers per trip. Its philosophy is that while “seeing the famous sites is a must, it’s those memories of wandering through a little village or sharing dinner with a local family that leave a lasting impression.” The small-group aspect allows for more time to absorb the nature of the places visited, and to make a minimal environmental impact on them as well. Who Travels With Them? While Peregrine is a global company, many of its travelers originate from Australia and New Zealand. However, their groups can be geographically diverse, with most travelers 50+ years of age. Where Do They Operate? Peregrine offers a wide variety of exciting global destinations, with 200 trips across 80 countries -- spanning from Egypt to Turkey to Canada trips! The company is perhaps best known for its Himalayan trekking excursions to far-flung destinations including Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet. It was a pioneer in high-altitude trekking and these trips remain among their most popular today. How Does it Work? Most travel is by private, air-conditioned minibus, but you might find yourself on a houseboat in Kerala, India, a tuk-tuk in Sri Lanka, or a mountain lift on the best Switzerland tour you've ever experienced. Lodging and dining is at smaller, locally run hotels and restaurants. You might also dine with locals from time to time, and stay with local families or at campsites as well. Why Travel With Them? Peregrine is a good choice if you’re looking for a bit of a softer landing with respect to transportation and accommodations but still crave an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience. If you’re looking for more individual travel, Peregrine will craft independent journeys, arrange self-guided walking and cycling tours, or arrange private group and tailor-made trips. It’s your choice. Peregrine also helps support various community and conservation projects via its ties with the Intrepid Foundation. Tweets by PeregrineSpirit
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Tauck

Tauck

#45 Pick of 164 Education & Learning Tour Companies

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4.2 • Great
Total Trips 949 Trips
Average Price $ 675 per day
Size Global Operator
Tour Length 18 – 18 days
Trip Prices $ 9,390 – $ 9,390
Service Level Standard
Operator Type Mixed Land & Cruise
Trips in Education & Learning 3 Tours in Education & Learning

Nine Tours and Done

Sad to see a once good tour company stumble and fall into mediocrity. That’s Tauck post-Covid. My May 2023 tour of Normandy, Brittany and the Loire Valley was done on the cheap by Tauck, yet cost me thousands of dollars extra as a solo traveler on a special small-group tour. 

5-star hotels switched to 3 and 4 (without any compensation or explanation)… many more meals “on your own”… lots of “self-guided” tours of museums and chateaux and castles we knew nothing about… airline quality “rubber chicken” dinners, not in hotel restaurants, but in sad and isolated business convention spaces… poorly-trained newer Tour Directors (like the one on this tour) with limited experience traveling outside her tiny Canadian village or dealing with people from diverse backgrounds. She even confessed that this was a second gig job that took her away from her own business back home! You get what Tauck pays for, but unfortunately, not what YOU pay for. 

Speaking to a “Guest Relations” agent was comically pointless. She tried to make everything my fault, which I now understand is par for the course with the “new” post-Covid Tauck. Please reconsider spending huge amounts of your hard-earned money on a tour company that has lost its way and no longer delivers.
2.0 • Susan

Still Spellbound by the Grandeur of Alaska

Focused on the amazing wildness of Alaska without worrying about the mundane details. Expert, low-key tour director made everything look easy. Excursions enhanced appreciation for the history, terrain, wildlife, peoples, boom and bust cycles that make Alaska so unique. Clear view of Denali, great weather, days 'at sea' with binoculars in hand! Most Memorable Moment: Flightseeing, Tundra Wilderness tour (clear Denali, rare wolf sighting and grizzlies in distance), crossing Prince William Sound (sea-otters, orcas, stellar sea-lions, and more), Hubbard Glacier calving, Glacier Bay entire day, Whale Watching out of Juneau, and bald eagles everywhere!
5.0 • Ischeibl
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0

Tauck/Aon terrible travel insurance

Tauck partners with Aon for travel insurance. We bought this insurance through Tauck specifically to cover us in case of a positive for test for Covid and could not go on the cruise. Three days before the trip, one of us tested positive with very mild symptoms. We contacted Tauck and they agreed to refund 1/2 of the tour cost and the insurance would pay for the other half. When we called the insurance they said they required a PCF test. The test was taken and came back positive. Two months later they denied the claim because we didn’t go to a doctor. That was not necessary or practical. We had proof of Covid. Tauck is not willing to help. This was the insurance they recommended and sold to customers. We have now read many reviews of terrible service from Aon. Why is Tauck a partner to this company and not willing to help their clients? BEWARE. Terrible customer service.
1.0 • Harry
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A Portrait of India 2023
A Portrait of India 2023 Trip Style: Small group tour
Founded in 1925 by Arthur Tauck, the company has blossomed from a New England motor coach tour agency to offering trips throughout the world -- by land (including rail), sea, and sometimes by air (private air charters, helicopters). But it remains a Tauck family-run business, now in its fourth generation. Quick Facts Founded in 1925 Luxury travel with a friendly touch Small groups, large groups, river cruises Solo friendly Average tour price is around $6,000 p/p Unique partnerships: BBC Earth, offering science themed nature tours, Ken Burns journeys in the US What Makes Tauck Stand Out Long legacy Classic destinations Several types of itinerary, from cruises to family trips All inclusive pricing Themed trips “No grouches or pessimists” was the plea in a 1920s newspaper ad for a small tour group. From that small automobile taking curious, adventurous New Yorkers along dusty roads through beautiful New England, Tauck has come a long way, now offering guided tours throughout the world. They look upon their legacy with immense pride, as well they should. Arthur Tauck was an immigrant who pulled himself up by bootstraps and engenuity, and his name represents a supreme, classic and classy tour experience.   Tauck is a long-established high-quality tour operator with a strong reputation as one of the top companies offering upper-mid-range to luxury group travel and river cruises for the 50+ crowd. While its staple has been European and North American land tours, Tauck has been increasingly expanding into special family trips, exotic locations, and recent award-winning European river cruising. Who Will Enjoy Traveling with Tauck? Families 50+ River cruisers History buffs Pricing is virtually all-inclusive -- no additional options that can run up costs are offered during the trips, yet this is not a place for the true budget traveler. Though they offer several different types of tours, from family vacations to river cruising, attracting and serving a diverse customer group, the legacy of tradition and comfortability appeals largely to older and middle aged travelers. Solo travelers are very welcome on Tauck trips, and pay a low single supplement. Numerous specifically solo friendly tours are offered. You’ll meet romantic singles, or simply independent minded travelers, of all ages. Large family or friend groups could find a great fit at Tauck. Particularly because if your group is 11 people, the 11th travels for free! Because of Tauck’s impressively wide reaching themes and styles for families, having several different ages will be easier to entertain than they might be with other companies. They even have dedicated “family river cruises”. So if you’re considering a multi-gen family reunion or have a large group of friends with various ages, Tauck could be a good choice. Top Destinations Tauck destinations include all seven continents -- so whether you're trying to plan an Iceland vacation or looking to take a trip to Canada, consider Tauck! Special themes may include food and wine, North American national parks, fall foliage, solo travel, African safaris, “Culturious” travel (for culturally curious baby boomers), “Bridges” (for families), and “Events,” which are considered once-in-a-lifetime travel experiences. These may feature a trip to the Kentucky Derby or journeys based around themes of Ken Burns films, with a chance to meet Burns himself. Tauck Travel Style Tauck’s travel style is all about seeing destinations in comfort, yet with a strong sense of adventure and desire to see different sides of the destination - from local life to culturally immersive activities. Land tours are where they began, and they offer hundreds of different tours of various lengths around the world. Typically accommodations are in comfortable 3, 4, and occasionally 5 star hotels. Tauck has an award winning river cruise line, covering a variety of European rivers. They strive to create an intimate setting, where customer service is not compromised. Small ship cruises use 40- to 264-passenger-size yachts and expeditionary vessels that can visit small islands and other locations that big ships cannot. The staff is known for its attentiveness and individualized service. Among Tauck’s unique partnerships is a special connection with the BBC Earth, through which they offer what they call “Earth Journeys”. These explore the natural world with emphasis on being outdoors learning the fascinating earth science behind stunning nature and wildlife. Tauck is a luxury minded brand, and their prices do tend to sit in the upper budget range. Think an average price between $5,000 and $7,000 per person. That said, they strive to reflect a friendliness and openness, and steer away from any kind of “stuffy” feeling. Their trips are comprehensive and full of enriching cultural activities, while also appreciating the value behind enjoying a cocktail hour before heading into dinner. Why Choose a Tour or River Cruise With Tauck? Tauck has an impressive array of travel styles and tours, suitable to numerous types of travelers. They are especially popular with large family groups and corporate groups, as well as very friendly to solo / single travelers. A renowned, award winning, and well established company, they seamlessly marry innovation with legacy - sticking to their roots while continuing to create unique offerings. Some of its biggest growth has come on water, where Tauck operates a fleet of seven European river boats and a number of small ship cruises. Their customer service, attentive and knowledgeable guides are definitely a key component to their popularity. Tauck offers something for just about everyone. Covid-19 Updates Tauck has an internal "Global Response Team" that is poised and ready for responding to the unexpected, from extreme weather events to outbreaks.  They have implemented stringent safety requirements for their trips going forward, training guides on enhanced protocols and health screening practices. Guests will be required to wear face coverings on all outings.
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Great Value Vacations Preferred

Great Value Vacations

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4.1 • Great
Total Trips 941 Trips
Size Global Operator
Tour Length 6 – 6 days
Trip Prices $ 2,094 – $ 2,296
Service Level Budget
Operator Type Group Tour Operator
Trips in Education & Learning 2 Tours in Education & Learning

Amazing trip to Greece with GVV!

Our trip to Greece with Great Value Vacations was amazing! It was so nice to have everything all scheduled and booked ahead of time for us. Will definitely travel with GVV again!
5.0 • Karista Jones

Being able to select our own B&Bs

Being able to select our own B&Bs
5.0 • Kevin Sean Connolly
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Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0

I want a call back regarding the…

I want a call back regarding the several complaints I made while on the vacation booked. Worst experience ever!
1.0 • Teresa Elaine Silva Lozano
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Great Value Vacations provides pre-packaged, competitively priced vacation itineraries suitable to all traveler types. They are owned by DH Enterprise and Associates, Inc. What Makes Great Value Vacations Stand Out? Professionally planned itineraries Flight & car rental available Local insights Budget minded Unlike traditional guided tours, Great Value Vacations provides professionally planned packages for independent travelers booking a vacation. Everything from flights to car rental is available through the Great Value Vacations booking process. Itineraries are designed by locals, so you can get a true sense of local authentic living while on your vacation. Their packages are competitively priced, and designed by an extensive network of travel experts. You can choose from among several types of trip and their reviews speak for themselves in customer satisfaction. Accommodations and activities are hand selected by their local experts or the “feet on the street” as they call it. They choose only the highest quality places to send you and your travel companions. Who Will Enjoy Traveling with Great Value Vacations? Independent planners Budget travelers All ages Travelers who want a fully vetted itinerary and the peace of mind that comes with having all components taken care of will love the experience of a Great Value Vacations package. Because of the great variety they have available, families, older travelers, and young professionals can all find something suitable on Great Value Vacations. It’s important to note that these trips are not a traditional group tour or private tour, with a guide. If you are looking for a different kind of packaged pre-set itinerary with a fellow group of travelers, we recommend checking out a few different group tour companies first. These packages are great for independent minded travelers who still like the idea of a professionally planned itinerary, with unique experiences and activities, but plenty of free time. Great Value Vacations is also great for having all services in one place - including visa information, flight booking, hotel booking, and car rental. Great Value Vacations is also a great options for budget travelers. They partner with various deals sites like Groupon to provide ongoing deals and specials (although the voucher system might be a bit complicated). Top Destinations Great Value Vacations operates tours in Africa, Asia, Europe, and The Caribbean. Travel styles include everything from all inclusive resort experiences, to quaint Bed & Breakfasts, to fully escorted tours, to rail journeys. Great Value Vacations Ireland trips are quite popular, particularly now as Ireland has remained open to travelers during the Coronavirus pandemic. You can find several different affordable independent and self drive Ireland packages through Great Value Vacations.  Similarly, many American travelers are considering domestic travel for the next vacation. Great Value Vacations United States trips are a great choice for keeping the budget low and finding fun unique ways to explore your own backyard.  Great Value Vacations Travel Style Adventurous Local culture Active Flexible Driving The Great Value Vacations travel style is about convenience coupled with confidence - for an unforgettable adventure. Most of their packages involve driving, and their rental car availability is comprehensive as well as a big part of the value when using a Great Value Vacations package. Itineraries include detailed directions, all your hotel information, and other important documents are available within 30 days of your booking. You are required to print all necessary documents provided to you via their Traveler Portal. Most packages include a few guided day tours and several activities ranging from cultural to active.   There are several vacation types and themes to choose from that are available through Great Value Vacations. These include everything from Luxury to Self Drive Vacations (which is one of their most popular).   Why Choose a Tour with Great Value Vacations? For the ease of booking a package all in one place, Great Value Vacations is a top choice. Their packages have the propensity to be a bit standard, however given that they are created by local experts - all itineraries bring a little something special to the itinerary. You’ll definitely see the important sites, as well as get some locally immersive hidden gems. They bring all facets of planning travel into one place, at a competitive price, taking care of all the factors that can make planning travel stressful. They have an easy to use online booking system, eliminating the need for you to take any extra steps. It's important to note that some travelers may find the Great Value Vacations booking model a bit convaluted. They are very much geared toward budget travelers which means you can may see them listed on sites like Groupon or other deals aggregators.  Great Value Vacations Covid-19 Travel Update In response to the uncertainty surrounding Covid-19, Great Value Vacations is currently postponing all bookings, based on the travel date, current news, and country travel policies. This precaution is in place at least until November 2020 and will likely be extended beyond that. At this time any current bookings with Great Value Vacations remain non-refundable.
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Abercrombie & Kent Preferred

Abercrombie & Kent

#19 Pick of 164 Education & Learning Tour Companies

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4.1 • Great
Total Trips 314 Trips
Average Price $ 763 per day
Size Global Operator
Service Level Luxury
Operator Type Group Tour Operator
Trips in Education & Learning 1 Tours in Education & Learning

I will Never, EVER, EVER use A&K again. They are not what they were represented to be.

We started planning our South Africa and Kenya Safaris 2 years in advance and could never get our questions answered by A&K representatives. The piles and piles of traveler information that A&K sent us was old and a lot of it incorrect. TAUCK customers that we talked to were taken care of. We were not. Our trip to Robben Island in Cape Town was never booked and we have not received a refund. A&K would not tell us our flight information for all the planes within Africa we were taking. We always travel first class yet they booked economy for us and then wanted to charge us change fees and penalties when we tried to change to first class which was available. We bought first class tickets but A&K will not refund the ticket price. If the trip were free, I would not travel with them again
1.0 • Tory

Not what was described!

We took the Singapore & Malaysia Tapestry of cultures. It was a Marco Polo tour which is supposed to be their best and a small group. There were 13 of us and we all agreed this would be our last trip with them. This was billed as a foodie experience and the places they took us were awful. Experiences like a special mahjong class touted as an A&K exclusive experience vanished. The A&K representative apologized at the end of our trip saying he knew this was not the trip we expected. Since we didn't receive events as stated in the description we requested that they give use partial refund. Everyone on the tour complained to A&K in detail about everything that went wrong. We were offered $1000 toward another trip. This is not a way to treat repeat customers.
1.0 • Singapore and Malaysia
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Lodging3.0
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Meals1.0

A magical journey with rich history and the most beautiful scenery in the world!

All of the accommodations were wonderful; meals, service, locations all outstanding. Our driver, David was exceptional! We cant say enough about him. He was a very professional, safe driver with vast knowledge about the history and regions where we traveled. He went above and beyond for us every step of the way. Blythe, our UK GA, met us and saw us off from the EDI airport. She kept in touch throughout our journey by text and made us feel well cared for. On the front end stateside, Maria, did a wonderful job planning our tailor made journey with meticulous attention to detail. We appreciate everything and look forward to our next A&K vacation.
5.0 • Majestic Scotland
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Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
Co-founded by current CEO Geoffrey Kent in 1962, Abercrombie & Kent started out in modest fashion as an African safari operator, but quickly grew into one of the world's premiere luxury travel brands. Today they cover the globe, with 50 offices worldwide. What Makes Abercrombie & Kent Stand Out? Award-winning luxury tour operator Insider-access opportunities Focus on culture, wildlife, and history  Abercrombie & Kent is one of the world’s leading luxury travel companies. The emphasis is very much on luxury here -- whether it’s small-group travel (limit of 18 per group), tailor-made journeys, expedition cruises, train travel, African safaris, European barge cruises, or any of its many other offerings, just about everything A&K arranges is top of the line. They are specific in their travel style, promising superior and attentive service, comfort, and cultural exploration. While this may seem exclusionary - and the prices are quite a barrier to entry. Luxury travel might have a reputation for being swanky and even perhaps a bit dull, particularly for those who travel for adventure, the image being a glass of champagne all day long, moving from meal to meal, sitting on the private deck of a cruise ship. This perspective is a misnomer however, as there is quite a bit of action available on tours with Abercrombie & Kent. Enjoy invigorating walks, hikes, get outdoors to remote locations, meeting local people and learning about their cultures; experience the thrill of getting up close to waterfalls, and poise your camera for the perfect shot on a safari. Then retire to your room for a cocktail before dinner. Who Will Enjoy Traveling With Abercrombie & Kent? Ages 65-75 Luxury travelers Abercrombie & Kent travelers embody an adventurous spirit, but enjoy the finer things as well. “Elegant exploration” is one way to put it. These travelers appreciate a slow pace and personalized attentive service. The age range tends to be older - baby boomers and seniors looking for a relaxing experience, with many cultural touch-points, but not overly “immersive” as their children and grandchildren might prefer. This is upper crest travel at its finest - though Abercrombie & Kent makes a concerted effort to be worldly and inviting, your experience is definitely a luxury version of any given destination. This is a travel company that offers Private Jet trips, some of which offering the chance to meet an Abercrombie & Kent family member. Think private after hours tours, exclusive outings with artisans, chefs, and winemakers; spectacular meals and accommodations that go a touch beyond comfortable. Imagine the civilized world of cocktail hour and dressing for dinner, but in the context of exploration. Perhaps you’re sipping your negroni on the deck of your private suite in Kenya, gazing out across the savannah with elephants silhouetted in the distance, against the dusty yellow sunlight of dusk. This is the wonderful travel world waiting for you with Abercrombie & Kent. The majority of A&K’s guests come from North America or Britain. A&K trips are definitely not for the budget traveler, but they offer deluxe lodgings and transport and exceptionally attentive service, which their customers value highly. Top Destinations Abercrombie & Kent made its name offering luxury small group and private safaris in Africa. Today they go around the world, but with the same luxurious approach. Luxury doesn’t mean same-old, same-old or unadventurous though. Groups head off on Antarctic expeditions or Uganda gorilla safaris, visit Tibet or Machu Picchu, join a European or Nile river cruise, or travel to India’s Pushkar Fair. You can ride deluxe trains or fly across Africa by private jet with Abercrombie & Kent. Or you can outline your own tailor-made journey under the guidance of an A&K consultant, then be accompanied by their guides throughout. Abercrombie & Kent Travel Style There could be a tendency to view Abercrombie & Kent as old fashioned when it comes to travel style. However there is a difference between old fashioned and appreciating a traditional travel style. Those who travel with Abercrombie & Kent do expect a certain kind of experience. From luggage handling to having the salad fork in the correct order, from short or non-existent lines to special assistance when needed. These expectations have become the blueprint for an Abercrombie & Kent travel experience. Transportation on an Abercrombie & Kent tour is almost always private and chartered. Exceptions would of course be rail journeys, but here you would have a private car and access to first class dining and viewing. Your journey may involve anything from helicopters, private jets, luxury coaches, and yachts. Walking is a common part of most guided tours, but you can expect simple and easy distances during your A&K itinerary. (Unless of course you are on a Gorilla Trek!). Accommodation follows a similar pattern. Luxury hotels, safari lodges, villas, you name it and it’s probably available. Why Choose a Tour With Abercrombie & Kent? Abercrombie & Kent promises to deliver an authentic, “insider” travel experience, such as seeing Machu Picchu under the guidance of its former resident archaeologist. You can even ride an elegant train to get there. In Tanzania, A&K runs its own luxury safari camps. From the time they first meet you at the airport until trip end, Abercrombie & Kent promises that your trip will go as smoothly as possible -- and that their entire global organization will be dedicated toward that goal. It may strike some as contradictory to see certain parts of the world in luxury. Some countries have luxury homes, but they are only available to tourists and travelers because the locals simply occupy a different social sphere. There is a unique dependency on tourism in much of the world. Abercrombie & Kent takes this seriously, doing their philanthropic part wherever possible, giving back to the local communities.
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Alexander + Roberts

Alexander + Roberts

#46 Pick of 164 Education & Learning Tour Companies

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4.8 • Excellent
Total Trips 302 Trips
Average Price $ 391 per day
Size Global Operator
Tour Length 9 – 9 days
Trip Prices $ 5,840 – $ 5,840
Service Level Luxury
Operator Type Mixed Land & Cruise
Trips in Education & Learning 1 Tours in Education & Learning

past cultures was outstanding.

The attention of our guide to our needs and assurance of our visiting all sites - his knowledge of the areas and history and insight into the present and past cultures was outstanding.
5.0 • Lynda & John

Paid In Full to Go Nowhere

I chose the small group China Sampler and paid in full in December 2018 for the April 2020 departure to get the $300 discount. After that it was just waiting and waiting and waiting. I was looking to start making airline flight plans to and return from China in April 2019. But when my travel agent contacted A&R she discovered that I was the only one signed up for the small group tour. This continued through the remainder of 2019. I actually called A&R direct one day to find out what was going on. I was then told about the 90 day out policy before they would cancel the trip. I asked a couple of times through my travel agent if A&R could just go ahead and cancel out the tour and refund my money, but was told there might be some last minute people to sign up for a trip to China. So basically A&R had my $5,000 plus fully paid fee to invest and use as they chose for over a year. January 10 or 20 was the 90 day before date I was told when a decision would be made to cancel. On January 9th I checked the website of A&R and saw by the small group tour for April 9-19 the words "Sold Out". So I'm thinking "Oh, maybe they did get enough last minute people to go?" So I sent my travel agent info on what airline flights I would like to take to China and back. The next day I was sent an email from my agent letting me know that A&R had cancelled the April small group trip to China for the dates I had selected. So the "Sold Out" descriptor apparently was an attempt to save face by not admitting they could not fill the small group trip with enough people to make the trip happen. Not a very "transparent" policy. About a month before A&R did offer to have me join the May China Sampler trip, but those dates did not meet my travel plans. I never received an apology directly from A&R. No offer for a discount on a future tour, nothing. Last time I will ever consider A&R for any type of tour.
1.0 • Small Group Tour to China Cancelled
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Superb in both Seba Camp

The Tour Guides were superb in both Seba Camp (Joseph) and Little Makalolo Camp (Paul). We saw virtually every animal possible in closer proximity than we imagined possible. Accommodations great and food exceptional.
5.0 • Marc
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Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
Classic Cuba
Classic Cuba Trip Style: Small group tour
Founded in 1947, Alexander + Roberts holds the distinction of being one of the oldest guided tour companies around, and a founding member of USTOA. Unlike many tour companies, they focus equally on small group, private group, and customized travel.   What Makes Alexander + Roberts Stand Out Historical legacy Authentic experiences Exotic and classic destinations Local guides Unique itineraries Alexander + Roberts has over 70 years of tour experience. In fact, the company was the first to provide guided tours of the former Soviet Union during the Cold War era. Since then, A + R have been pioneers, traveling to new far-flung locations like Burma and Cuba before many other operators. There can be a tendency for old and established guided travel companies to seem out of touch and stuffy, while also getting unwieldy if they try too hard to adapt to the modern traveler. Alexander + Roberts has managed to remain firm to their classic yet innovative roots - an old fashioned charm comes across. You’ll find a blend of classic itineraries as well as more unique experiences and themes.  Who Will Enjoy Traveling with Alexander + Roberts? Affluent travelers 50+ and Seniors Couples Active travelers Alexander + Roberts is a US-based tour operator for the affluent traveler wanting to venture beyond the ordinary in a comfortable manner. A + R is best for those travelers looking for a small-group experience with an added element of luxury. They also offer private journeys, custom itineraries, and fully supported independent travel options.  This is not budget travel by any means. Unlike most tour companies today that don’t require a single supplement, they do (for most tours) at “only $700”. Many activities and meals are included on Alexander + Roberts small group tours. So if you have more of an independent streak and would like some flexibility but aren’t interested in a private or tailor made trip, you may want to explore other tour companies that provide more free time during the itinerary. If you’re looking for a professionally planned trip with expertise, luxury, and attention to detail baked into the price then Alexander + Roberts is a good place to start. Top Destinations A + R offers hundreds of trips on six continents, including Asia, Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and Latin America. They also offer small-ship cruising in the Americas, Antarctica, Asia, and Europe. Alexander + Roberts Travel Style Small groups (16 max) Private travel Tailor made travel Most meals and activities included Alexander + Roberts purposefully keeps their tour group sizes small - maximum 16, for added flexibility and authenticity. Hotels are a mix of unique local and boutique properties, all with a touch of luxury. Most meals are included on their standard group departures and guides are local, with the in-depth knowledge that comes with it.  Why Choose a Tour with Alexander + Roberts? If you’re looking for a refined experience that still gets you under the surface of a destination, then Alexander & Roberts could be for you. Their trips are not cheap, but do provide good value with many inclusions and years of experience in the industry.
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Lindblad Expeditions

Lindblad Expeditions

#47 Pick of 164 Education & Learning Tour Companies

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4.7 • Excellent
Total Trips 86 Trips
Average Price $ 827 per day
Size Global Operator
Tour Length 15 – 15 days
Trip Prices $ 10,390 – $ 10,390
Service Level Luxury
Operator Type Small Ship & Expedition Cruise Line
Trips in Education & Learning 1 Tours in Education & Learning

Never made the trip, have not been reimbursed by travel insurance

I had to withdraw from a trip due to pneumonia. Six months later, after my submission was long approved, I still am unable to receive reimbursement from TripMate, the travel insurance company. I will never use Nat Geo or Lindblad for another trip, though I had planned to. That they would work with such a untenable partner company is incomprehensible.
1.0 • Jamie Madison

That money wasn't meant for them

They could improve by RETURNING the $6.6 million in CARES ACT money they took, that was SUPPOSED to go to SMALL business so they could keep folks on the payroll during the 'rona shut down. They are a publicly traded company with a Market value of $264 million. That money wasn't meant for them. They are scum.
1.0 • Brendan
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Guide1.0
Activities1.0
Lodging1.0
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Meals1.0

UnCruise is an amazing dream!!

UnCruise is an amazing dream!! The crew, the sales team, the office team, all go out of their way to make sure your experience is unforgettable. We were on the August 1, 2020 cruise. Even tho things didn’t go quite the way we planned, UnCruise was unbelievable. We will be back. UnCruise was my first ever cruise. They will be the only company we ever cruise with.
5.0 • Teresa
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Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
Lindblad Expeditions is an expedition cruise specialist with almost 50 years experience. The company was founded by Antarctic explorer, Lars-Eric Lindblad in 1969, who pioneered leisure travel expedition cruises to places like Antarctica and the Galapagos. What Makes Them Stand Out? Lindblad is one of the most well-known adventure travel brands in the world, with a rich history of exploring the far corners of the earth. All of their trips have an element of education, such as lectures from naturalists and photographers. In fact, Lindblad has long partnered with National Geographic to provide this enriching, educational aspect to their tours. Although you are on board with a large group, sometimes 100+ people, this is not your typical group tour. Travelers have flexibility and can choose their daily activities based on personal interest. In places like Antarctica, smaller groups form to make landings via a zodiac boat. Who Travels With Them? Lindblad attracts a curious, well-educated traveler - someone who wants to truly immerse themselves in nature and their surroundings, versus a more passive traveler. Lindblad travelers have diverse backgrounds such as professional photographers, artists, teachers, and scientists. You can expect your expedition group to be of all ages, although many passengers are 40+. Where Do They Operate? Lindblad offers a wide range of tours to classic expedition cruise destinations like the Galapagos, Alaska, and Antarctica as well as non-traditional places like Costa Rica, Panama, and the British Isles. Their fleet of ships numbers 10 in total. Why Travel With Them? If you’ve always wanted to explore distant places like Antarctica or tough-to-reach lands like the Galapagos, then Lindblad could be your best bet. They have many years experience fine tuning their hands-on, but comfortable, expeditions to provide a fun, educational experience. This certainly isn’t your classic cruise experience.
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National Geographic Expeditions Preferred

National Geographic Expeditions

#5 Pick of 164 Education & Learning Tour Companies

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3.5 • Average
Total Trips 63 Trips
Average Price $ 714 per day
Size Global Operator
Tour Length 4 – 17 days
Trip Prices $ 1,595 – $ 18,695
Service Level Standard
Operator Type Mixed Land & Cruise
Trips in Education & Learning 27 Tours in Education & Learning

Inconsistent information, No Refund

We booked a National Geographic expedition Holland and Belgium by River. The promotional literature promised a 14-day deposit refund window. The “invoice” was marked “non-refundable” deposit. We completed the National Geographic Traveler Information. About 8 days later we received the “Travel Agreement” to be signed. We both approved and signed the National Geographic documents. A Cruise Line Travel agreement was enclosed but had no signature line. This document contained language which was unacceptable. We submitted the signed NatGeo documents. The following day we canceled the trip due to the unacceptable Cruise Line language. Cancellation was made 12 days after booking and no deposit was returned. We were told on the phone that the refund deadline was triggered by the 14 day window OR signatures on the Travel Agreement which ever came first. This was NEW information. To date, we have received NO refund of our $1000. We cancelled our trip within the advertised 14 day window.
2.0 • Engedu

Highly recommend! It was a trip of a lifetime!

We had not had the pleasure of traveling with National Geographic and was not sure what to expect. The trip went beyond what we could have possibly imagined! The staff were attentive and the guides were knowledgeable. There was not a time that we felt unsafe or that our needs were not being met. The trip was very fast paced which allowed us to experience each destination. Their timing was perfect with scheduled excursions and meals. We took the trip in October 2019 and then COVID entered our world and brought our trips to a stand still. I am now planning some trips for this year with hopes of a healthier world to travel!
5.0 • Around The World by Private Jet
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Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0

Cancel my trip but no refund

This company canceled my trip due to COVID but failed to refund all money so I am out $1500 for Lindblad portion, and will never travel with NatGeo again. They have lost my trust as a company that puts travelers best interests first.
1.0 • Well traveled
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Guide1.0
Activities1.0
Lodging1.0
Transportation1.0
Meals1.0
Tanzania Photo Safari
Tanzania Photo Safari Trip Style: Private guided tour
Peru: Machu Picchu Inn to Inn
Peru: Machu Picchu Inn to Inn Trip Style: Small group tour
Whales & Wildness: Spring in the Sea of Cortez
Whales & Wildness: Spring in the Sea of Cortez Trip Style: Small ship cruise
In 1999, National Geographic launched their own tour company component: National Geographic Expeditions. Since then they have expanded to offer trips on all 7 continents in over 60 destinations. Recently they partnered with G Adventures to provide even more variety to their devoted customers. What Makes National Geographic Expeditions Stand Out? Multiple modes of travel Expert guides and photographers After hours and special access to sites With National Geographic, you can travel by small, expedition-style ships; classic train journeys; land tours; active adventures; photo tours; family-oriented trips; or private, independent expeditions based on your desires and budget. Wherever you go with National Geographic, which has been in the tour business for 15 years, you can expect doors to open: entry to research sites, archaeological digs, private homes or special events. Many expeditions are accompanied by a National Geographic expert or expert team who share their knowledge and passion for a region and help make each experience enriching and unforgettable. Who Will Enjoy Traveling With National Geographic Expeditions? Photography enthusiasts All ages Adventurous minded Nature lovers History buffs Life long learners National Geographic is one of those special brands that has managed to successfully straddle the line between “your grandfather loves them” and “your eighteen year old sister loves them”. They cover a wide range of topics, themes, and travel styles, with the educational aspect always prevalent yet not overbearing. If you love feeling like an explorer and an adventurer when you travel, and love learning about the world from experts in a variety of fields, National Geographic is the perfect place for you. This is a company for those who want to dig deeper, like getting the inside story from multiple perspectives - historical, cultural, political, economic, scientific and more. National Geographic trips are great for families, and you can choose a private tour or a family friendly group, where hands on activities will widen your children’s worldview in innumerable special ways. National Geographic trips are also extremely popular with photographers - novice photographers will enjoy their photography-centric tours, while many dedicated hobbyists can be found on their other trip styles as well. If you’re the kind of traveler who sacrifices the space for a pair of shoes in your suitcase for another lens or photography accessory...you’ll be right at home on a trip with National Geographic Expeditions. In the same way that National Geographic magazine has always inspired and furthered conversation and discourse, so too do their trips. The spirit of learning about the world is intertwined in every itinerary, so if you consider yourself a lifelong student, you should definitely consider traveling with National Geographic Expeditions. Top Destinations National Geographic Expeditions go all around the world, and cover almost every travel style imaginable. One might think they have a favoring of the more “exotic” locations but an impressive number of United States and European tours are offered as well as farther reaching destinations. National Geographic Expeditions in the Galapagos are especially popular. Regardless of where you travel, you will be sure to get off the beaten path and discover unique cultural landmarks, meet interesting people, and enjoy a sense of adventure. Small-ship expeditions, done in conjunction with Lindblad Expeditions, can take you to Antarctica, the Galapagos and points beyond. Classic train journeys include the Trans-Siberian and trains through India, Spain, and Switzerland. Active adventures might take you hiking in Bhutan or meeting Berbers in Morocco. Land tours could take you to Tanzania, Peru or the Grand Canyon. National Geographic Expeditions Travel Style The travel style with National Geographic Expeditions has an aura of old fashioned exploration with a modern twist. National Geographic Expeditions is a family friendly outfit, offering a wide range of prices and trip styles. Trips vary from mid range budget to higher. Physical level is usually light to moderate. By virtue of their longstanding presence in the world, National Geographic has a wide reaching global network to lean on for incredibly unique and authentic lodging options, knowledgeable guides, and VIP access to historical and archaeological sites. They have several broad travel styles you can choose from: Land Trips - National Geographic Land Trips are immersive explorations, often covering nature and wilderness points of interest such as national parks. They also dive into ancient cities and cultures, with trips exploring everything from monks in Burmese mountainside temples to the lives of nomadic Mongolian peoples. Most trips are around 11 days and physical level is between light and moderate, with some trips featuring moderately challenging hikes in various altitudes. River Cruises - a relatively new addition, Nat Geo now offers around 7 river cruises in Europe covering the Danube, Rhine, and Douro. Currently they also have 1 river cruise in Asia, along the Irrawaddy. These trips are typically between 7 - 11 days and feature wine tasting, history tours, and very light physical activity. Private Expeditions - If you and your family, significant other, or a few close friends are looking for a more intimate travel experience than a group of strangers, Private Expeditions are a great way to travel. These trips are customizable, and can be crafted to perfectly suit your interests and dates. Photography Trips - National Geographic has consistently featured award winning travel photography. They run regular contests for those inspired by the thousands of groundbreaking and historic photographs taken by journalists and travel photographers around the world. On National Geographic photography trips you can actually learn tricks of the trade from real-world photographers and improve your skills. Train Trips - Travel was revolutionized with the implementation of the railroad, allowing people to travel in what was then a rapid pace from destination to destination. Today this ideal has been flipped on its head, and train travel is a leisurely paced excursion allowing time to relax and appreciate the slower meandering through beautiful countrysides. National Geographic train trips cover the classics, such as the Trans-Siberian railway and the Rocky Mountain railroad. Accommodations are comfortable, around a premium level, with options to upgrade. Active Expeditions - For those who enjoy a bit more of an adrenaline pumping and active travel experience, National Geographic also has trips for you. These trips feature multiple active outings, such as kayaking, hiking, and caving. Expect to explore the outdoors covering unique natural phenomena and gaining insight into how and why the landscape has been shaped the way it has. These trips also feature cultural insights, just to a lesser extent. Family Expeditions - National Geographic is the perfect company to travel with when you have curious and adventurous youngsters eager to see the world. They will learn about other cultures, people, food, nature and wildlife from experts with “cool jobs” that might even inspire lifelong interests and perhaps influence a career. These trips are specifically designed to be hands on, allowing everyone to get involved and learn about how things work. Private Jet Trips - For a luxurious and more lengthy travel experience, nothing beats a Private Jet tour. A dedicated team will be with you, and you’ll experience all the best that National Geographic has to offer from local guides to premiere accommodation. These trips are in a very high budget range, but if it’s in your wheelhouse - it’s a superb way to travel and cover a lot of ground. Journeys - Part of a partnership with G Adventures, these trips are adventurous and immersive small group excursions imbued with the spirit of National Geographic. The best of two top travel worlds! Why Choose a Tour  With National Geographic Expeditions? When you travel with National Geographic you are participating in and contributing to a spectacular legacy. Over the years National Geographic has cultivated a reputation for being about cultural exploration, scientific advancement, and broadening perspectives. Their travel experiences are perfect for anyone wishing to get back to the roots of what adventurous, experiential travel really means and enjoy discovering the world from multiple angles. Really one of the best parts about traveling on a tour with National Geographic Expeditions is the sheer breadth of knowledge, personal and professional experience their guides bring to the table. They help provide richly detailed context, historical information, and dive into the details of local life, by showing and doing as well as explaining. You the traveler will have the true experience of getting to know a place from the inside out. If that wasn’t enough of a reason, proceeds from your trip price go towards supporting National Geographic’s ongoing nonprofit work in conservation, exploration, education, and cultural preservation.
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Zegrahm Expeditions

Zegrahm Expeditions

#52 Pick of 164 Education & Learning Tour Companies

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5.0 • Excellent
Total Trips 3 Trips
Average Price $ 741 per day
Size Global Operator
Tour Length 16 – 16 days
Trip Prices $ 13,980 – $ 13,980
Service Level Standard
Operator Type Group Tour Operator
Trips in Education & Learning 1 Tours in Education & Learning

Highest Recommendation Possible

Zegrahm gets my highest recommendation. I recently returned from a 13-day Seychelles exploration and snorkel/dive adventure beginning in Zanzibar, visiting something like 9 Seychelles Atolls and islands for tons of daily snorkeling and diving, and finishing in Mahe where we departed from. This was absolutely the best cruise/group experience I have ever had on either land or sea. Zegrahm charters the boats and I was lucky enough to be on the Ponant ship, Le Bougainville, which is very posh, with a friendly and polite staff, an amazing french chef, good food, a nice spa, you name it. My bedroom was like a small luxury hotel and each room had a balcony so you could enjoy seaside and ocean views from your bed or balcony whenever you'd like. It was lovely. I especially appreciated coming back to such a haven after long days of sunshine, beach and snorkeling. Not only was the cruise ship and it's staff fantastic, but the Zegrahm staff were all wonderful. I sat and had dinner with many of them every day and they somehow remembered all our names (99 or so of us). They snorkeled and dove with us, pointing out fish and naming species, they went birding, they provided lectures in the mornings and evenings in their areas of expertise, because Zegrahm hires Marine Biologists, Anthropologists, and countless other individuals (with PhDs) to provide insight and lessons into the history and ecology of the places being visited and seen. At the conclusion of the trip - I didn't want it to end. I had made several like-minded friends for travel, was invited on future trips and exchanged information with almost everyone. We were a family by the end, both staff and customers. Hugs all around as we celebrated all we had seen together and promised to keep in touch. Zegrahm fosters that type of environment when you travel with them - and it was welcoming and especially enjoyable for a solo traveler like myself. These trips aren't cheap - but are worthwhile for all you see and do - most things you'd never be able to see on your own and certainly not with trained ecologists and marine science experts. I believe you get what you pay for. I was one of the youngest on board but there was a small group of about ten 30-40 year olds with the vast majority being probably 50-80. This isn't a sit on the boat all day-type thing. You are going to be waking up early, going out 2-3x a day and really seeing and doing things. You almost never have down time and you are always learning, seeing, talking and doing. It's expeditionary, not sedentary. It's fun and really enriching. The best way to know someone is doing a good job at this price point (think around $8-12k per person) is repeat customers and I met countless people who have done 6-12 of these expeditions with Zegrahm and knew the staff already. That's the absolute best recommendation you can get. I'll be booking with them again without any hesitation. Thank you to Brad, Murph, LJ, Merel, Steven, George, George K., Robin, Pepper, Lisa, Shirley, Gemma, Chris, Boli, Marcel, and anyone else who I forgot from this amazing trip. You all did a great job and made me feel like family!
5.0 • MizAli23456

Quality staff and good itineraries.

Quality staff and good itineraries. Also have many voyages with no single supplement. They actually welcome solo travelers - much more welcoming than many other companies. Getting a little expensive for me, though.
5.0 • Marian
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
Voyage to Madagascar
Voyage to Madagascar Trip Style: Group tour
Zegrahm specializes in land and small ship expeditions in all seven continents.
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Perillo Tours

Perillo Tours

#17 Pick of 164 Education & Learning Tour Companies

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4.8 • Excellent
Total Trips 8 Trips
Average Price $ 260 per day
Size Local Specialist
Tour Length 12 – 12 days
Trip Prices $ 2,950 – $ 2,950
Service Level Standard
Operator Type Group Tour Operator
Trips in Education & Learning 1 Tours in Education & Learning

Despicable and Unhealthy Bus Conditions

On our trip to Amalfi coast, the bus was parked in a field for two days. The next day, we had an 8 hour bus trip to Sicily. The bus was not properly cleaned before and after it had been parked in the field. On the 8 hour trip to Sicily, there was an infestation of ants. We had tons of ants crawling on the seats, windows, and floor. My husband killed 10 ants on his body. I received bits on my ankles and wrists. The tour guide never said anything to any of the guests. When we confronted him, all he said was that he would have the bus cleaned the next day. These was horrible conditions to travel for 8 hours. I have written to Perillo seeking a refund for that day's service. Time will tell if Perillo will actually answer my evaluation. This situation rises to the occasion where customer service was extremely poor an unhealthy, and a partial refund should be granted. If Perillo stands behind customer service as its motto, then they should provide partial refunds for this day. If not, then this leads me to assume that Perillo is more concerned about overall profits than good customer service. Time will tell!
3.0 • Avid Traveler

Not worth your money

My Mom and I had the opportunity to visit Italy this summer on the 9 day Rome and Amalfi Coast Tour. Italy is a beautiful country and everyone needs to see and experience it before they die. However, I would NOT recommend Perillo Tours (PT). Here’s why: Introductions of group members were not done at the orientation. There are still people on the tour that I did not meet or know their names. And, we were only given the first couple of days of our itinerary, which was VERY broad and lacking detail. I am still in shock that it was HAND-WRITTEN and lacking so much important information. For example, it would say that Breakfast was at 7 and we would depart at 7:30, we would tour the Coliseum and the Roman Forum, have lunch, and we would return to hotel at 5:30. I had so many questions: Where is breakfast located? Where do we meet to depart as a group? How long is each part of the tour? How long will we be on our feet/in direct sunlight? Will bathrooms be accessible on the tour? What time is lunch? Where is lunch? How long do we have to eat lunch? In my opinion, these are valid questions that should have been written down on the itinerary that was given. I will say that some of these questions were addressed verbally, but it would have been more relaxing for me to have at least had approximate plans written down on the itinerary. In our orientation, we were told that water was provided on every bus. NOT TRUE. I asked for a water bottle and was told that only the bus ride to Amalfi would have water bottles. So yes, you guessed it. My Mom and I went most of the day without water. This was frustrating knowing that we had perfectly good water bottles in our room and that we were misinformed during orientation. I think that it is also important to note that on the tours you don’t always get to jump the lines. At all of the tour sites, we still had to get in the “tour group line” and wait our turn to go. Most of the time, we were standing in direct sunlight for 30+ minutes. Specifically, while we were waiting to tour the Blue Grotto at the Isle of Capri, we had to wait in a rocky boat for 45+ minutes. Keep in mind the conditions. It’s hot, humid, loud, and the fumes from ALL the boats is almost unbearable. Then the captain of the boat randomly decided to jump out of line and move our boat closer to the cliffs for some reason. This area of the water was full of waves and not an ideal spot to anchor a boat. Accurate time frames or time estimates are almost nonexistent with PT. Not only is this confusing and not helpful, but this was a trend of the entire tour. No one knew any answers and it almost felt like we were being misinformed or dare I say lied to. My Mom and I decided to do one of the optional tour add ons. We understood that it was at an additional fee, but thought it would be worth it. Long story short, it was not. This tour started at 2, so we had a short window to rest, eat lunch, and regroup. We were told the walking tour would be 2 hours. It ended up being 3.5 hours in the heat of the day, direct sunlight, with no bathroom breaks, and only two stops at fountains to refill our water bottles, per my requests. At this point, my Mom becomes ill. She is light headed, nauseated, and no longer able to walk at the pace of the group (probably due to the heat, lack of water, and fast-pace of the tour, but that’s just a wild hunch). I informed the tour guide of this and he responded loudly in front of other group members, “Well, what do you want me to do?!” I suggested that my Mom and I end the tour early and head back to the hotel in a cab. He told me that this was a pedestrian only part of town and that we would have to walk to find a cab pick-up area. He also made it very clear that PT would NOT pay for the cab ride. I was shocked to say the least that he did not seem to care that my Mom was sick and did not offer to help us in any way. When we arrived back at the hotel, we were given less than an hour to rest and get ready. So at this point, we had been up and moving in direct sunlight, with very little water for about 8 hours. Sounds relaxing and fun, right? My Mom was still feeling ill and was not able to go out for dinner with the rest of the group, so I asked PT to please send a meal from room service, so she could have dinner. PT would not accommodate this request because hotel room service was too expensive. Instead, they sent up a bucket of ice to our room. Confused about this? Yeah, we were too. At the restaurant, I was handed a to go bag of food to give to my Mom, but we didn’t arrive back to the hotel until 10 PM and in my opinion, mozzarella cheese and prosciutto was the last thing my Mom needed to eat that late. If a person cannot go out to dinner because they are ill from the tour, then room service should be provided by PT to help them feel better. I have so many more things to add, but not enough character space to do so. In summary, do NOT book with PT!
1.0 • Jess
Details
Value1.0
Guide1.0
Activities2.0
Lodging4.0
Transportation1.0
Meals2.0

It was my dream to go to italy

It was my dream to go to italy, we went 2019 Perillo Tour and Angelica made my dream so memorable loved every minute. We are planning to go back 2022 Can’t wait!
5.0 • Debbie
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
South & Sicily
South & Sicily Trip Style: Group tour
Founded in 1945, and headquartered in New Jersey, Perillo was a pioneering company in the guided travel industry.  What Makes Perillo Stand Out? Destination expertise Well-balanced itineraries Generous and satisfying meals First-rate hotels Perillo has been a name in the tourism industry since the 1940s, known for operating tours of Italy. Today Italy is still their main focus, though they have expanded to offer limited departures in Hawaii, Greece, and Costa Rica. They provide well thought out and classic itineraries, showcasing the traditional sights, nicely augmented with local insider knowledge. Perillo is a classic tour company, offering several trip options including custom tours, destination weddings, and traditional escorted group trips. On the trip, you’ll benefit from their extensive experience and destination knowledge.   They have a dedicated Italy brand, “Perillo Italy Tours”, which expands on their long legacy providing Italy guided experiences, as well as a “Learning Journeys” brand. Their learning journeys travel to many more destinations, and cover a very wide range of interests, including certification classes for certain skills. Who Will Enjoy Traveling With Perillo? Older travelers  Solo female travelers Those interested in classic, custom, and themed tours All ages are welcome on Perillo tours, however their type of travel may be more enjoyed by older travelers looking for a calm, fully managed tour. Perillo is a bit old fashioned. They do one thing and do it well, and haven’t changed much in the 60 years that they’ve been around. So if you’re looking for a traditional guided tour, busy but not with too many bells and whistles, Perillo is a great choice. One unique offering through Perillo is their faith-based journeys. This was one of the first types of tours designed by Perillo. You can visit Greece and the Holy Land, as well as several important religious destinations in Italy. For travelers seeking an authentic religious-themed travel experience Perillo’s extensive experience leading and planning these kinds of tours is nearly unmatched. Custom trip options are also available through Perillo. These custom group experiences cover a wide range of interests including yoga / health and wellness retreats, festivals, and learning tours geared toward universities. If you’re planning a destination wedding or honeymoon they have services dedicated to this as well. Their Learning Journeys are perfect for solo female travelers and enthusiastic life learnings passionate about learning new skills, languages, or diving deeper into the history of a certain destination and culture. Top Destinations Perillo is known for, and primarily focuses on, Italy tours. Here their breadth of knowledge is impressive as they began operating Italy tour packages in 1945. Perillo Italy tours cover the whole country, including Sicily, with special emphasis on classic sights and local eats. Perillo also offers escorted tours in Hawaii, Greece, and Costa Rica. Their “Learning Tours,” focus on niche educational travel and classes around the world, including Africa & the Middle East, Asia, and Australia. Perillo Travel Style Large groups or private vacation packages Tried and true is Perillo’s style. They may not have the most flashiest or easily navigable website out there, or the most unique itineraries, but they know guided tours, they know Italy, and they stick with the classics. Hotels, meals, and activities on Perillo tours have been personally vetted and experienced by the founder, and they have everything down to a science. Perillo Itineraries are between 9-10 days on average, often focusing on cuisine and historical sights. Groups tend to be between 20 and 40 people, and they often arrange private departures for large groups such as families or wedding parties. Special interest tours are another popular kind of itinerary offered through Perillo. In Italy, they offer a number of golf tours, faith-based tours, and culinary tours. Learning tours often focus on cooking, as well as art and history, science, and wildlife. Why Choose a Tour With Perillo? Classic sites and itineraries Guides with significant destination expertise For an Italy tour that appreciates the standards and approaches their itineraries from a local point of view, Perillo is the place to go. Their tours operate from the major cities to the charming hill towns more off the beaten path. You'll have a carefully crafted tour with a thoughtful balance of sightseeing, free time, optional activities, and relaxation. They are not the flashiest of tour companys, and their website is somewhat difficult to navigate to find all the options available - of which there are a good number. But they certainly have laurels to rest on given their extensive background and long historic legacy in guided tourism. Covid-19 Updates Perillo is updating their status regarding trip operations on a regular basis. As of October 2020, all November 1 - 15th departures are postponable without subject to cancellation fees.  
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Avalon Waterways

Avalon Waterways

#43 Pick of 164 Education & Learning Tour Companies

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4.7 • Excellent
Total Trips 215 Trips
Average Price $ 378 per day
Size Global Operator
Service Level Luxury
Operator Type River Cruise Line
Trips in Education & Learning 1 Tours in Education & Learning

On a river cruise from Zagreb to Black…

On a river cruise from Zagreb to Black Sea on Avalon Impression there was little to fault the 4+ star boat, the food and the crew (with the notable exception of one quite senior member of the catering staff who occasionally forgot he is in a service capacity as he heatedly ordered passengers and fellow workers about, causing anger and distress in both groups - I am sure that those on the 9th September sailing will know of whom I make this comment and suspect this is not the first time that his behaviour has been noted). Cabins, public rooms, service, shore visits and food were all for the most part exemplary. Not so the hand dealt to those staff on the ground (boat and shore) - and passengers - by back office management. On a journey described on Avalon's website as a "9 day river cruise" and "inclusive of accommodation, meals and free wine with lunch and dinner" only 5 days were spent actually cruising on the river and on only 5 days were all meals provided (1-2 on the other 4). The same cruise sold as "From Croatia to the Black Sea (at Constanta)" stopped some 70 km short of the port and the sea with an optional 3 hour bus/ walking tour of Constanta - which is not what was expected (an Avalon map of the journey indeed showed the journey as completed via the Danube/Black Sea canal - an engineering marvel to which many were looking forward). Staff on board were left surprised at the expectation of mooring on Constanta, saying there "just wasn't time". Thus a £5000 (rack rate) "9 day river cruise to the Back Sea" offered morphed in reality into a "5 day river cruise way short of a promised destination" of questionable value for money. At best misleading and deeply disappointing. Enough to drop this from a 4 star experience to 1 star Probably not consciously deceitful but perhaps Operations and Marketing should talk details before extravagant claims are made and the inevitable disappointment follows. Surely Operations sign off on advertising claims is the norm these days? Not it seems at Avalon. No big deal for most of our fellow passengers I guess. But, sadly, we will not be travelling with Avalon again, even though almost all their people shone. Ah yes. One more thing. The wines were indeed free and generously dispensed but the quality quite poor - and no choice other than "red or white". A feeling of penny pinching.
1.0 • Peter Young

My wife and I received an offer of free…

My wife and I received an offer of free cruise and air tickets in return for attending their promotional in the Detroit area. We attended on July 12, 2023, Conf. # TS181. Upon leaving we were told that we did not qualify because we arrived late, were older than 72 years of age, and did not meet the income requirements. None of these requirements were stated on the invitation. If this is the way the company works, I certainly cannot recommend it.
1.0 • Byron Perrine
Details
Value1.0
Guide1.0
Activities1.0
Lodging1.0
Transportation1.0
Meals1.0

the people were great i liked the size…

the people were great i liked the size of the ship
5.0 • customer
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
EF College Break (EF Ultimate Break)

EF College Break (EF Ultimate Break)

#3 Pick of 164 Education & Learning Tour Companies

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2.9 • Average
Total Trips 27 Trips
Average Price $ 229 per day
Size Global Operator
Tour Length 8 – 17 days
Trip Prices $ 1,469 – $ 3,679
Service Level Standard
Operator Type Group Tour Operator
Trips in Education & Learning 20 Tours in Education & Learning

Terrible Service and Outright Theft

booked a trip in 2019 for a 2020 trip. EF cancelled it during Covid and didn't offer any travel during my desired time. I scheduled my own trip and went to Europe. I then rebooked a Australian trip (because I could not receive a refund) for 2023. Around Aug. 2022 I realized the trip would cost nearly 12k grand, I again requested a refund on my initial $4k down payment. I was told they would keep $600 to cover incurred cost for a trip that was over 250 days out. They handled this very poorly and I was spoken to very poorly. I would not recommend this travel agency. They are simply trying to take advantage of consumers at every opportunity.
1.0 • landon

Highly Recommend

The London-Paris-Amsterdam trip through EF Ultimate Break was terrific! When looking into travel programs, one aspect I want is organization. EF was highly organized. From flights to transportation in each city to the activities planned, EF had everything down pat. Our tour leader, Kyri, was equally as fabulous. He was fun and excited to show us each city. A guide can make or break a tour, and Kyri made ours special. I would highly recommend looking into a trip with EF!
5.0 • Abby Fafara
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0

I'm posting on here because EF doesn't…

I'm posting on here because EF doesn't post reviews 3 stars or less on their website (which is automatically a huge red flag). I just recently came back from a trip with EF, and it was so beyond disappointing. The only really great thing about this trip was the people. I loved my group and I loved my tour director. But be warned, EF will give you terrible and cheap meals, accommodations, and flights. Starting with the meals, EF plans trips in some amazing cities, and the food is probably the most exciting part of these cities and a huge part of what makes it fantastic. Eating good quality food with good people is what makes any trip or event memorable. But the places EF led us to to eat, was so awful. It was so upsetting, and a waste of money. For flights, from where I live there are plenty of nonstop flights going to where I was going to for this trip. EF gave me long, grueling, inconvenient layovers in some random cities - and this was obviously to cut corners on the flights to keep more of my money. All of the hotels were dirty, outdated, and cheap. If I'm paying so much money for a trip, EF must be pocketing a lot of it. Because it definitely did not go towards a good trip. You can do as you will, but if I could go back in time and tell myself to not do the trip with EF...I would do it in a heartbeat. Don't say I didn't warn you.Just don't let them rob you.
1.0 • MP
Details
Value1.0
Guide1.0
Activities1.0
Lodging1.0
Transportation1.0
Meals1.0
Thailand & the Islands (May–Sept)
Thailand & the Islands (May–Sept) Trip Style: Group tour
Peru & Machu Picchu Adventure
Peru & Machu Picchu Adventure Trip Style: Group tour
Newly rebranded as ‘EF Ultimate Break’, EF College Break has been a leader in educational tours, language services, and study abroad experiences since 1965. What Makes EF Ultimate Break Stand Out? A strong sense of fun, with an educational twist Affordable travel for college aged adults Strong emphasis on social activities, meeting locals and making new friends Flights included in the price of the trip Generous payment plans EF stands for “Education First”, and they have been offering educational travel experiences, exchange programs, work and teach abroad assistance, and language courses for over 50 years. They focus on making sure the often daunting and complicated process of planning an abroad experience, whether for pleasure or a career change, remains as simple as possible. Their travel experiences were named EF College Break, however they rebranded in 2017 becoming EF Ultimate Break, reflecting a fresher more youth driven outlook, and placing less emphasis on the education aspect and more on the fun aspect. Their tours are about being completely immersed in your destination and appreciating all it has to offer with your tour group who are guaranteed to become your good friends by the end. This is like a study abroad journey with all the fun and none of the schoolwork. Who Will Enjoy Traveling With EF Ultimate Break? 18-29 Year Olds Social Travelers Travelers looking to enjoy the nightlife, but also get up early for sightseeing College students Budget travelers Single and Solo travelers This is the kind of trip that active outgoing, social college aged adults interested in learning and having fun will enjoy. If you have a “work hard play hard” kind of mentality you will fit in well with their approach to traveling. EF Ultimate Break specifically caters to 18-29 year olds, and their pretty strict about this (though the broader spectrum of their educational programs are open to adults and working professionals). Their main target being 18-29, tours are designed to not be price prohibitive, itineraries include a lot of social activities, and the emphasis is on having fun and staying active, with a sprinkling of educational value thrown in for good measure. Enough for you to maybe convince a parent to put up some of the cost. Incredibly studious types who gravitate to history tours, archaeological sites, and long moments in each stop learning from a guide may want to check around first before choosing to travel with EF Ultimate Break. One of their mantras is “we don’t do boring” and let’s face it museums often fall under that category.  The emphasis is on being active, seeing and doing a lot - both on the historically significant side as well as the locally immersive side (which in this case might mean your bunkmates are frequently sampling the nightlife). Top Destinations EF Ultimate Break covers destinations all over the world Europe Central America South America Asia Australia / New Zealand   There is a strong emphasis on Europe for EF Ultimate Break, though they do offer group travel experiences around the world. In Europe they cover many popular countries in Western and Central Europe, including Italy, Iceland, and the UK. In Central America, you can find trips in Cuba, Belize, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, and Panama, and in South America they have departures to Peru, Ecuador, and Argentina. In Asia, EF Ultimate Break has tours in China, Japan, Thailand, and Vietnam. Lastly you can also find tours in South Africa, and Australia and New Zealand. EF Ultimate Break Travel Style Tours are designed to be easy to pay for using installments; and they have a few different payment plans to choose from. You can choose from 1-2 week, 2-4 week, and 4+ week durations, and filter by a variety of trip type. While on your tour: Accommodations are standard and basic. Think multi-bed hostel rooms with randomly selected roommates from your tour group, more than hotels. A variety of transportation modes will be used, from private motor coach to train to bicycle. Your Tour Director is a local, ready to introduce you and welcome you to their home - acting as a tour guide and friend. Why Choose a Tour With EF Ultimate Break? If you’re a college aged adult looking for a stress free and adventurous tour experience, EF Ultimate Break could be the perfect choice. This is for the type of traveler for whom backpacking through Europe sounds fun, but you’d rather do it with a little less stress, a little more companionship, and the guarantee of a hot meal and drinks with friends. But the adventurous backpacker spirit remains. Not only that, but they provide generous payment plans, and almost everything is included making it really hard for you to make the excuse that an awesome travel experience is out of reach financially. They want you to see the world, have fun, and provide many ways to make it happen. They also have a number of other brands with similiar outlooks on education and travel including "EF College Study Tours", "EF Explore America", "EF Tours Girls Trips", "EF Educational Tours Canada", "EF Go Ahead Tours", and "EF Gap Year".
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Adventures by Disney

Adventures by Disney

#83 Pick of 164 Education & Learning Tour Companies

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5.0 • Excellent
1 review 100%
Total Trips 14 Trips
Average Price $ 600 per day
Size Global Operator
Service Level Luxury
Operator Type Mixed Land & Cruise
Trips in Education & Learning 1 Tours in Education & Learning

Great trip! Kudos to Adventures by Disney for a really well done trip!

I went on this trip with some misgivings, as my only other experience with this type of tour was a winter Tauck Family Bridges tour of Italy, that was not a good experience. Well, I am SO glad I went, as my daughter and I had a marvelous time. Disney did an amazing job of organizing this trip - I still can't believe how much they managed to fit into essentially 8 days. I also can't believe how much fun it all was! The guides were tremendous. First of all, unlike Tauck (where we traveled with one tour manager), here we had two guides with us the entire time - one a licensed guide in Greece (i.e., a native, very knowledgeable about the country and able to really take us through the historical and archaeological sites) and the other an American who has been guiding in Greece for years. The interaction between the guides was very warm, as was their way of relating to the guests. This was a complete contrast with Tauck. Here people really got to know each other, the young people had a great time with each other, and, of course, Greece itself is just magnificent. I will certainly travel with Disney again!
5.0 • MSNY
Family friendly and culturally immersive travel from the imaginative minds at Disney. What Makes Adventures by Disney Stand Out? A majority of tour companies cater to young adults and 50+ travelers. Very few are dedicated specifically to families, and those that are often have a minimum age of 12 - with rare exceptions. Adventures by Disney is a perfect option for parents with young children seeking exciting, educational, and culturally rich vacations, with an high level of comfort. These tours are not heavy on the Disney characters or films either, so if you’re dreading an all-Disney all-the-time experience, rest easy. These trips are active, often with an outdoor component, and introduce young minds to the world through interactive cultural presentations, up-close wildlife experiences, and other fun surprises. Who Will Enjoy Traveling with Adventures by Disney? It goes without saying that these trips are geared toward young families. You and your young ones will enjoy a trip with Adventures by Disney if learning through travel is a high priority, and a certain amount of physical activity is ok. Adventures by Disney trips are on the higher end when it comes to price per person. But it’s important to note that almost everything is included - freeing you up to enjoy the trip with no stress about where the next activity should be, or finding a restaurant that is suitable for your families needs. On most trips with Adventures by Disney the minimum age requirement is 4 years old. Top Destinations Adventures by Disney operates their specialized family friendly itineraries all around the world. Europe and North America offer the most extensive list of trips. Select Central America and South America tours are available as well as limited tour options in Australia, China, South Africa, and Japan. Adventures by Disney Travel Style There are many trip styles to choose from through Adventures by Disney, including river cruises and large ship cruises. The travel approach with Adventures by Disney is very hands on - perfect for young minds learning about the world! You and your children will also gain exclusive insider access to some of the most incredible sights around the world. Private tours and “backstage access” are a key part of the Adventures by Disney experience. Most Adventures by Disney tours feature varying degrees of physical activity. Some are more active than others, but you should expect to be outside, enjoying nature in some capacity during your trip. Whether this means a day of kayaking trip along the Gold Coast, a hike through a magical European forest, or cycling along rivers and lakes your trip will provide plenty of time in the fresh air. All admissions to exhibits, tours, and activities are included in your package. Adventures by Disney is very focused on making sure your trip is hassle free. All transportation and accommodation during the tour are also taken care of. Why Choose a Tour with Adventures by Disney? If you’ve been having a hard time finding a kid-friendly tour that provides a well rounded itinerary and plenty of support, Adventures by Disney is a great place to look. Don’t let the Disney name deter you from exploring these trips - it’s not all floating hotel cruises. In fact most itineraries with Adventures by Disney are private - just you and your family, allowing for ample time to explore and learn about the history and culture of each destination. Every Adventures by Disney trip is accompanied by two professional, and of course kid-friendly, adventure guides and specialists. They are there to enrich your journey as well as make sure everything goes smoothly.
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International Expeditions

International Expeditions

#84 Pick of 164 Education & Learning Tour Companies

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5.0 • Excellent
Total Trips 8 Trips
Average Price $ 602 per day
Size Global Operator
Tour Length 7 – 7 days
Trip Prices $ 3,548 – $ 3,548
Service Level Standard
Operator Type Group Tour Operator
Trips in Education & Learning 1 Tours in Education & Learning

IE puts on a show on the Amazon

My wife and I just returned from a wet season trip with International Expeditions (IE) to Lima and the Amazon. It was tremendous: 1. The diversity of wildlife is extreme and up close and personal. 2. The vastness of it all approaches infinity. 3. The staff and guides were top drawer professionals. The IE mother ship (Zafiro) is in great condition and very comfortable, clean and welcoming. The staff is friendly, helpful, supportive, knowledgeable. The naturalists/guides are the best. Experts in the wildlife and flora and good-natured and personable. Yes, it is hot and humid, but very bearable. Yes, there are mosquitoes at night, but again very manageable. (We've all experienced much much worse in the US.) In the wet season (50 feet higher water than in dry season) you don't get to walk as much as you do in dry season because terra firma is so much further into the rain forest than you can reach in a boat. But we did get to visit villages and walk in the rain forest. We swam. We went out every morning and afternoon in the skiffs to explore smaller rivers and lakes. Sloths, monkeys, iguana, boa, anaconda, caiman, tarantula, piranha, frogs, toads, and more bird types than you can count. Wow - What a Show!
5.0 • The Amazon does not disappoint

Amazon River Cruise

This was our second time coming to Peru but first time with International Expeditions and it was amazing. Staff and guides are very friendly and accommodating. If you have food allergies and any sort of problem they take the time to ensure you have a great trip and will help you any way that they can. The river cruise itself was very comfortable clean sheets, beds are nice and rooms are pretty spacious overall for a river cruise. We always had daily activities to participate in or could choose to stay behind. But I wouldn't recommend that as you get to see so much just within the first couple of days that you're in Pacaya-Samiria Reserve! The wildlife was incredible and included sightings of monkeys, birds, snakes, a sloth, spiders and beautiful frogs that you get to see during the night boat tour. I loved going into a local village and learning about cultural traditions that have been passed on from generation to generation. We even participated in a spiritual ritual that's supposed to cleanse your body; a very interesting experience! I'd recommend bringing and using insect repellent daily especially during summer peak season, it is the Amazon after all. If you love wildlife and are looking for a great authentic but comfortable experience in nature, I highly recommend this trip.
5.0 • Fantastic Trip
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
Amazon Riverboat & Rainforest Lodge
Amazon Riverboat & Rainforest Lodge Trip Style: River cruise
SmarTours Preferred

SmarTours

#15 Pick of 164 Education & Learning Tour Companies

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4.9 • Excellent
Total Trips 1 Trip
Average Price $ 259 per day
Size Global Operator
Service Level Budget
Operator Type Mixed Land & Cruise
Trips in Education & Learning 3 Tours in Education & Learning

Epic Journey to Africa with SmarTours

Epic Journey to Africa with SmarTours Smartours was amazing in Africa. We had a great tour guide. 5 Star hotels and transportation. We embarked on many safari adventures across Africa. We had the incredible opportunity to witness the magnificent "Big Five" animals, including lions, rhinos, elephants, buffaloes, and leopards. We even had the thrilling experience of walking alongside wild lions and riding an elephant named Coco, accompanied by guides armed with rifles and shotguns for our safety, protecting us from lions, leopards, and poachers. Enchanting us with its grandeur, the mesmerizing Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe and Zambia, known as the "Smoke that Thunders," captivated our admiration as the largest waterfall in the world. Embarking on a journey along the Zambezi River proved to be a thrilling adventure, as we came across the majestic hippos that call its waters home. Additionally, we were fortunate to behold the majestic Table Mountain in South Africa and set out to daringly swim with sharks. On our Journey to ALL 7 Continents, our travel experiences have taken us to incredible places all around the world. It is a matter of great pride for us to declare that we have traveled to every single Continent on Earth, placing us among a select group of fewer than 500,000 individuals throughout the entire span of human existence who have accomplished this feat. During our extraordinary journey spanning all seven continents, we had the incredible opportunity to visit remarkable destinations: - The majestic Grand Canyon. Flying over an active volcano in a helicopter and embraced the thrill of skydiving. Niagara Falls - We explored the historic remnants of the Berlin Wall and immersed ourselves in the charming atmosphere of Nyhavn and visiting The Little Mermaid. - In China, we marveled at the vastness of Tienamen Square and were in awe of the awe-inspiring Great Wall of China. We had the opportunity to visit the Shanghai Tower, which is the second tallest building in the world, and experience its impressive height firsthand. - Down in the Land Down Under, we indulged in the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef and enjoyed a memorable hot air balloon ride over the picturesque outback, where we even caught sight of kangaroos. We even partook in Cane Toad races. - We embarked on a journey to the mystical Machu Picchu, ventured deep into the enchanting Amazon Jungle, cruised along the mighty Amazon River, and admired the iconic Christ The Redeemer statue. We were fortunate to witness the breathtaking Iguazu Falls from both the Brazilian and Argentinean perspectives. Renowned as the second largest waterfall globally, Iguazu Falls captivated us with its sheer magnitude and natural splendor. - We braved the extreme elements of the coldest, driest, and windiest place on Earth—the untouched Frozen Tundra of Antarctica. We conquered the treacherous Drake Passage twice, braving the notorious Drake Shake and its towering 21-foot waves. It is renowned as one of the world's most perilous waterways. Exploring Antarctica provided us an opportunity to witness first hand the breathtaking ice formations, observe penguins, seals, whales and birds in their natural habitat. On March 17, 2023, at 3:45 pm, we achieved a significant milestone by officially landing at Orne Harbour in Antarctica, thus completing our mission to set foot on all seven continents. We had a heart-stopping thrill when our Arch-Nemesis, an Antarctic Fur Seal, nearly attacked us.
5.0 • Ann

Just Say No!

Jan 2020, three of us booked the Enchanting Peru trip for Sep 2020. The trip was cancelled due to the pandemic and the bankruptcy of SmarTours. They were the only tour company that I did business with that went bankrupt. On Feb 3, 2021 SmarTours sent me an email confirming my $300 credit for future travel. For three people that’s a total of $900. On May 15, 2023, Theresa Meyer, Co-President emailed me to use my credit and “to invite me to travel with us again.” I responded to the invitation and offered a creative, Win Win solution, please use our $900 to book a day tour for us with one of their business partners. Theresa ultimately responded, “Unfortunately this is not something we can do. All of our partners are B2B and do not directly work with customers on individual day tours or excursions. It sounds like the best bet would be to transfer your credits to someone who is interested in going on one of our full trips. You may all transfer your credits to anyone you like. If they book their own airfare independently, we have several trips that come in under $2000 per person, inclusive of guide, entrance fees, hotels and transportation, covering anywhere from 7 to 13 days. Which is an incredible value. We do not offer any tours for only $300 or $900.” Well I thought SmarTours was a business that used business partners which is B2B. In the time she took to craft that response she could have gone on Viator, GetYourGuide, or TripAdvisor to book a day tour for us. I do not recommend using this tour company.
1.0 • F P
Details
Value1.0
Guide1.0
Activities1.0
Lodging1.0
Transportation1.0
Meals1.0

Egypt tour was great

The tour was geat, great accomodations, tour gides very helpful and ,hotels great cruise ship excellent , everthing was great
5.0 • Sergio Olivas
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
Founded in 1996, smarTours promises its customers the “Best Travel Bargains” by offering mostly all-inclusive guided tours throughout much of the world. What Makes SmarTours Stand Out? Airfare included Affordable trips Numerous ways to save Local guides Destinations around the world SmarTours offers affordable tours along with great itineraries. Included in the price of all their tours is international airfare from the U.S., first-class hotels, sightseeing excursions, and English-speaking local guides. SmarTours draws a large repeat business, taking travelers to such far-flung destinations as Thailand, Morocco, Japan, Peru, Patagonia, India, and Australia. Who Will Enjoy Traveling with SmarTours? Budget travelers Social travelers History and culture lovers Travelers who love traveling and care about experiencing the destination above all else - tourist sites, history, and culture - will love the feel of a SmarTours trip. These tours are definitely for the budget minded - SmarTours offers numerous deals and specials throughout the year, and provides many other ways you can save money as well, including referring your friends and being a repeat SmarTours traveler. Trips are comfortable and well guided, if not luxury or especially unique in tone. Airfare is included, which is a major selling point for SmarTours travelers. SmarTours is perfect for the traveler who wants to get the most out of their travel experience, in terms of inclusions and time spent exploring the sites, both with a guide and with free time. If you are looking for a more cultivated, personalized experience, the SmarTours focus on keeping costs low doesn’t always allow for this. That said, this is budget travel that strives to appeal to a wider range. SmarTours caters to all ages that are looking for good prices. They are largely popular amongst middle aged, 50+ travelers, and families. Top Destinations SmarTours travels all over the world, including Africa, Asia, South America and Cuba, Western and Eastern Europe, and the Mediterranean. Diverse itineraries are available in each destination. SmarTours Travel Style Large coaches River and small ship cruises Except for its cruise offerings -- primarily river cruises as well as Greek Island and Galapagos cruises -- transportation is generally by bus. Group sizes can reach 40 and beyond, but may also be smaller depending on the popularity of the trip. SmarTours will design custom trips for groups with at least 25-30 travelers. Accommodations are between value and premium, comfortable with a step above basic amenities. You won’t spend much time in your hotel, as SmarTours makes the focus about the travel experiences on the ground. They care about ensuring that you have as much time as possible to explore with the guide and on your own. Why Choose a Tour With SmarTours? SmarTours is a complete bargain package for budget minded travelers. If you are looking for an unbeatable value, don’t mind a large group and want tours focused on exotic destinations, then SmarTours is a perfect choice for you.
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GradCity

GradCity

#104 Pick of 164 Education & Learning Tour Companies

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3.3 • Average
Total Trips 0 Trip
Size Local Specialist
Service Level Standard
Operator Type Group Tour Operator

This was an amazing trip

This was an amazing trip. I went with my daughter and her friends for their senior trip. I planned it through gradcity because I wanted that extra level of safety. I could not be happier with that decision. Outings felt safe and I was very impressed. I am a teacher so I am used to being very vigilant but I felt safe. The bars we went to were closed to the public so it was only chaperones and two grad groups. There was plenty of staff and they were very professional. Grad city staff went above and beyond to help when the airline lost our luggage. They were also very easy to get ahold of. I was very impressed and I highly recommend this group.
5.0 • Christy Derr
EF Explore America

EF Explore America

#105 Pick of 164 Education & Learning Tour Companies

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1.0 • Poor
Total Trips 0 Trip
Size Local Specialist
Service Level Standard
Operator Type Group Tour Operator

Worst experience ever

My son and my nephew were supposed to go to Boston this year with the school, LLT using EF Explore America. They rescheduled the Trip for next year and they are not available to go and now they do not want to give us a refund. Please never do a business with EF Explore America. This is the second year that they reschedule and now they deny to refund the money that we paid. We have lost more than $2,000. Also, I found that they have a lawsuit.
1.0 • ErikaC
1-20 of 28 Providers Shown First 1 2 Last

Reviews Write a Review

Tour schedule are great and we’ll planned

5.0
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
GS
Gregorio Salud
November 2023
Tour schedule are great and we’ll planned
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I would recommend this itinerary

5.0
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
CS
Cynthia Sullivan
November 2023
I would recommend this itinerary
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Türkiye is such a beautiful country with so much history and culture. A must visit for sure.

5.0
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
ADT
Alejandro Diesta Troutman
November 2023
Türkiye is such a beautiful country with so much history and culture. A must visit for sure.
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The itinerary hit the high points. Local guides (with the exception of Sergio in Madrid and Toledo) were average at best. Sergio was exceptionally good

5.0
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
TC
Trusted Customer
November 2023
The itinerary hit the high points. Local guides (with the exception of Sergio in Madrid and Toledo) were average at best. Sergio was exceptionally good
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We saw the best of Italy!, amazing Pompei and how old it is and still so real after the volcano.

5.0
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
EP
Elaine Ptacek
November 2023
We saw the best of Italy!, amazing Pompei and how old it is and still so real after the volcano.
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Some were better than others.

4.0
Details
Value4.0
Guide4.0
Activities4.0
Lodging4.0
Transportation4.0
Meals4.0
LM
Lynn McGregor
November 2023
Some were better than others.
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"We wander for distraction, but we travel for fulfilment."
Hilaire Belloc