Country Walkers vs Walking Connection - Tour Companies Compared
Compare details and see what other travelers are saying.
| Tour Company |
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| Rating Breakdown |
Overall — 5
Value — 4.9
Guide — 4.9
Activities — 4.9
Lodging — 4.9
Transportation — 4.9
Meals — 4.8
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Overall — 5
Value — 5.0
Guide — 5.0
Activities — 5.0
Lodging — 5.0
Transportation — 5.0
Meals — 5.0
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| Recent Reviews |
Excellent local guides,TERRIBLE customer service0.0 April 2018S
Shetuck Does Not Recommend
I’ve travelled with CW three times. This last trip is my last. You know how you can tell how good a business is when a crisis occurs? Such was the case on my last trip. Mega hurricane in Florida caused all flights to cancelled in Miami—just the place where many of our tour group had to fly through. Not only were the staff not ahead of the game (American airlines alerted us that flights were being cancelled, and that we needed to rebook ASAP, but CW REFUSED to take responsibility). After spending the night trying to handle things on our own (which we couldn’t do because CW booked our flights), finally, the next morning someone with authority finally said they would handle it—after an employee verbally stated several times (and in writing) that they WEREN’T responsible?! Over the next few days I tried in vain to reach anyone at the office that would acknowledge what occurred was really poor. I did get to hear how this employee was “a really good longtime employee.” No apology; but an offer of $500 was made “make me happy.” Wow—my whole point was missed. We were ignored, then patronized, how utterly frustrating.
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Grrr! This experience was so bad that it’s taken me several months to write this review. Frankly, I kept thinking CW wasn’t worth it he time it would take me to write it. But, on the off-chance anyone reads these reviews, I actually felt responsible to warn anyone considering a booking with CW. DON’T. Tour Country Walkers Company ReviewsWe loved our CW trip to Peru!0.0 June 2016AU
Anonymous UNE1001 Recommends
We loved our CW trip to Peru! We had wonderful guides who were helpful, knowledgeable, and fun to be with. We especially liked the special cultural immersion opportunities created by CW such as the weaving demonstration, family visits and home-cooked meals, corn beer and coin toss recreation stop, etc. This made the trip much more meaningful and gave us more of a flavor of Peru than hiking and sight seeing alone. Everything was top notch and we knew we were in good hands for the week. Thank you for an extraordinary experience.
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Tour Country Walkers Company ReviewsPhone interactions are exceptional0.0 June 2016AU
Anonymous UNE1002 Recommends
Phone interactions are exceptional. Employees are well informed about travel in general and your tours in particular-they speak with authority and from personal experience with your offerings. They call back promptly with answers and even help with the occasional related but not tour specific problem. The materials sent are helpful. I especially like the suggested reading materials. Have enjoyed all of our trips and have recommended CW in the past and will continue to do so
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Tour Country Walkers Company Reviews |
wonderful moments0.0 May 2018G
Ginger Recommends
The Walking Connection is top notch and second to none. I’ve now been on three trips with them and each better than the last. Detailed planning, spectacular accommodations, fun activities, and food and beverages that perfectly compliment the events of each day. Gene and Jo Ann’s extensive experience takes traveling to a whole new level. Thank you so much for all the wonderful moments, and I’m already planning for my next trip!
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Tour Walking Connection Company ReviewsWalking Connection is your best sourceIf you are looking for walking adventure travel0.0 August 2015AL
Alyce L. Recommends
I met JoAnn and Gene Taylor years ago right after they conceived the idea of Walking Connection and started the program. I knew from the start they are special, caring people who want to make a difference in people's lives by helping them be more active and healthier. Walking consistently will do that...so will the Connections we make as we walk and travel together.
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My husband and I traveled with Gene and JoAnn several times. Our favorite trip was to Ireland where the weather was perfect and the sights were thrilling. We moved to Virginia in the late 90s but have kept the connection and friendship with this very special couple. If you are looking for walking adventure travel, the Walking Connection is your best source. The trips are well planned, the walks are Taylored to everyone's level of comfort, the destinations are often only available through the Walking Connection and your traveling companions are fun loving and full of life. Wonderful!0.0 August 2015G
Ginger Recommends
Wonderful and accommodating hosts, and first class, fantastic trips. The Walking Connection with Gene and Jo Ann truly make traveling everything it is meant to be. I’ve been on two trips with them and am looking to book my next amazing adventure!
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| Tours | 6 Trips | 38 Trips |
| Average Trip Price Per Day | $ 452 | $ 0 |
| Operator Type | Mixed Land & Cruise | Group Tour Operator |
| Size | Global Operator | Global Operator |
| Trip Styles |
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| Service Level | Luxury | Standard |
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| Known For |
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| Headquarters | Waterbury, Vermont, United States | Glendale, Arizona, USA |
| Year Established | 1979 | 1989 |
| Solo Friendly | N/A | N/A |
| Tour Languages | N/A | N/A |
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| Similar Companies | ||
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Similar Companies
Known For
Launched in 1979, and based in Vermont, Country Walkers is committed to providing authentic local experiences through guided and self-guided walking tours.
What Makes Them Stand Out?
With 35 years in the business, Country Walkers is a leading tour operator, known for in depth itineraries which are constantly updated to provide the most authentic local experience. Their staff are extremely knowledgeable, having been on the trips themselves, and have a deep connection with the people and places you will visit. Average group size ranges from 10-14 people, with an emphasis on personal attention from guides.
Who Travels With Them?
Those seeking an immersive travel experience, where contact with the locals and participating in local customs is a highlight, will greatly enjoy traveling with Country Walkers. In particular solo travelers seeking self guided tours have found them to be extremely helpful. Trips are offered in a range of prices, through extreme budget options will be tougher to find.
Where Do They Operate?
Country Walkers operates tours all over the world, in Africa, Europe, Latin America, North America, Asia and the South Pacific. Accommodations are provided in locally owned and operated establishments wherever possible.
How Does it Work?
They emphasise an immersive experience, and focus on not rushing from place to place. Itineraries can be heavily customized to suit your specific interests and you can choose between a group tour, private tour, or go solo. Trips are generally a combination of adventure, walking tours, and luxury, allowing you to truly have a fully encompassing experience.
Why Travel With Them?
Country Walkers demonstrates a commitment to giving back to local communities, appreciation of every individual's travel style, and focus on slow travel where you will learn from experts in the field. Group sizes are small so if you’re seeking to get to know your travel companions well, explore local customs and cultures, and have a range of interests, you will enjoy a trip with Country Walkers.
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Compare Country Walkers with these other tour companies
Walking Connection, established in 1989, specializes in inspiring individuals to take a healthy approach to life by being active through walking and hiking.
WHO:
Around since 1989, it was founded by Gene and Jo Ann Taylor, who started gathering groups for local walks. It got promoted through the local media, and soon the company started getting corporate sponsors. Companies such as Safeway, IBM, and Honeywell have participated in their programs.
WHAT:
The tours are best enjoyed by those who are looking for an active trip and want to explore a new area by foot. If you're looking for a more independent group tour, this is it. You'll be able to have someone set a general itinerary for you and take you to new places, while also having time to relax and explore on your own. You’ll walk around 3-5 miles a day, but a van is available if a ride is needed. They also specialize in luxury travel tours with walking and hiking incorporated into the trips. Groups average in size from 12-14 people, but can go up to 16.
WHERE:
Explore North America, South America, Australia, Europe, and Africa through the tours. Tours are currently available in 16 countries and growing each year. A wide variety of activities are covered, including hiking, safari, walking/cultural, trekking, and summit trips.
HOW:
The Walking Connection pride themselves on being able to explore at a leisurely pace. Trips are moderately challenging to challenging, so you can pick the right one based on your activity level. You will travel by bus or car to get to destinations that are further away. Rest days can be taken if you need to relax for a day.
WHY:
While Walking Connection tours cater to all age groups, they are most commonly explored by the 40-60 year old age group. Couples as well as individuals will enjoy the tours. Those who have a positive outlook on life and love exploring new cultures will do well on these tours. They have a 90% returning customer rate! You can commit to several weeks for a longer tour, or just 2 nights for a shorter tour. The guides will take the time to see what you're interested in to give personal recommendations. A detailed packing list will be given specific to the trip you pick to ensure you are fully prepared for your adventure.
