Traveling with the help of a private tour service allows you the opportunity to explore your destination at a pace that is comfortable for you. While there are a lot of private tour companies out there, not all of them are the same. Following are some helpful tips you can use to choose the right private tour service for your next vacation.
Examine the Tour Company’s Itinerary
Before selecting a private tour service, make sure to first look at their options for the destination you’d like to go to. Will they be covering the places you want to see and doing the things you’d like to do? Some companies may shave costs by not including activities or making them an “add-on” to the tour. Make sure that the company at least offers you the opportunity to see and do most things on your travel wish list. There’s no point in booking a private tour service if it doesn’t offer the destination or activities of what you’re interested in.
Check Out the Tour Company’s Reviews
Before dropping your deposit on a tour company, check that they are reputable and have a solid standing in the tourism industry. Look at various websites online and take the time to read reviews. However, keep in mind that the people who are most unhappy will take the most time to complain and leave lengthy negative reviews. Read through these reviews and determine whether their complaints sound valid or not. Also, see who is writing each review to ensure it’s not a false review. Sometimes, competitors will leave false reviews to hurt a company or benefit themselves. Generally, you want to see at least 80% of the reviewers leave at least a 4 or 5 star.
Make Sure the Tour’s Activity Level Matches Your Expectations
There are varying levels of activity with most private tours, and while some are based more on heavy physical adventure, others are more leisurely paced. Review the itinerary and ensure the activity level of the tour package matches your expectations. Do yourself a favor (as well as your travel companions) and match your tour to your preferred activity level. You don’t want to be a day or two into your excursion only to find out you bit off more than you can chew or you are disappointed in what you are receiving. Ask any questions you have about the private tour experience before booking.
Find Out More About the Tour Guide
A good private tour company will hire licensed local guides who speak the local language and have a deep knowledge of the area. Some companies will hire their guides from a pool of available guides that may change daily, which means the quality can be hit or miss. The right knowledgable and passionate local guide can make your trip unforgettable, while a lesser quality guide may leave much to be desired.
When in doubt, it’s always best to contact each potential tour company directly with any questions you may have. By researching and finding out as much as possible about the company and itinerary, you’re sure to have an exciting and memorable experience.
