If, as the French philosopher Jean-Paul Sartre said, “hell is other people,” then why on earth would you ever want to go on holiday with them? The thought of group trips often conjures up images of frazzled tourists herded onto a coach, dutifully trailing behind guides waving umbrellas, while the reality of individual travel promises freedom and self-discovery. However, for many, that image is rapidly fading, replaced by a newfound appreciation for the benefits of group travel.
In 2019, after my attempts to book a solo trip to Colombia fell through, I took a leap of faith and joined a 12-day group tour with G Adventures. The itinerary included zip-lining, kayaking, and trekking up a volcano. By the end of that thrilling adventure, the luxury of a serene bus ride seemed appealing. Since then, I’ve embarked on group journeys across China, India, and Italy, discovering their ability to simplify the complexities of navigating unfamiliar countries as a solo traveler.
“When we started in 2014, it was a struggle to convince people that traveling with strangers could be cool,” recalls Lee Thompson, co-founder of Flash Pack, a travel company catering to those in their thirties, forties, and fifties who wish to travel but lack companions. Flash Pack has seen a remarkable 100% increase in bookings since 2022, largely attributed to a growing awareness of loneliness in our modern world. Rather than waiting for friends or partners to join them, travelers are eager to embark on adventures now.
Thompson emphasizes the appeal of their most popular trip—a 10-day excursion to Sri Lanka for a group of 14. “You can experience safari, beach, jungle, and city,” he highlights, making it an ideal option for maximizing time off work or personal commitments.
If you’ve never participated in a guided tour, you might still harbor skepticism about the experience, perhaps conjured by stereotypes of matching T-shirts and overbearing microphones. However, many of these notions are mere myths. Here are a few misconceptions about group tours debunked.
### 1. I’ll Have No Time to Myself
Contrary to popular belief, most tours offer flexible itineraries that allow for personal time. Some operators encourage travelers to add leisure days at the beginning or end of their trip. For instance, Saga’s Tailor-Made holidays provide more flexibility than expected, featuring self-drive options and private tours. Ramble Worldwide has even introduced “flexi walking” on some of its tours, allowing guests to skip segments and rejoin the group later—perfect for those who prefer to explore solo.
### 2. I Could Do it Cheaper Myself
For seasoned travelers adept at searching for deals, organized tours can appear pricier upfront. However, these companies often negotiate group discounts for hotels and meals, making them financially advantageous. Additionally, your time is valuable; consider the hours spent planning every detail of a trip. Companies like Contiki offer bucket-list experiences, such as luxury safaris, for significantly less than going solo, proving that organized options can be both affordable and enjoyable.
### 3. I’ll Spend My Whole Time on a Bus
Many fear being stuck on a cramped coach for the entirety of the trip. However, group travel has evolved substantially. Kayaking in the Arctic to spot polar bears or cruising the Mediterranean on a yacht are only two of the many alternatives to traditional bus journeys. With companies like SwimTrek leading small-group swimming excursions, there are countless ways to explore without feeling confined.
### 4. Everyone Will Be Old
Age groups have become more distinctly defined in group travel, with agencies catering to specific demographics. G Adventures features trips tailored for “18-thirtysomething” crowds, while WeRoad accommodates travelers aged 20 to 49, allowing you to meet like-minded adventurers and engage in experiences tailored to your age group.
### 5. There’ll Be Too Many People
The fear of navigating bustling tour groups is not unfounded; however, boutique travel companies focus on creating intimate experiences with smaller group sizes. Companies like Modern Adventure and Inside Japan tailor their tours for minuscule groups, allowing for more personalized interaction and unique experiences, like indulging in traditional cultural practices.
### 6. They’re Not Sustainable
Choosing to travel sustainably is essential today, and not all organized trips are created equal regarding their environmental impacts. Socially responsible tour operators, such as G Adventures, prioritize community engagement and sustainability efforts. This can mean supporting local businesses or participating in conservation projects, allowing travelers to contribute positively to the regions they visit.
### 7. It Won’t Be Adventurous Enough
The idea that guided tours shy away from adventure is quickly being dispelled. Operators like Untamed Borders specialize in active and off-the-beaten-path adventures, exploring some of the world’s most intriguing destinations. With a knowledgeable guide by your side, enjoying thrilling experiences in remote locales becomes not only possible but safe.
### 8. You’ll Feel Rushed
Many believe that group tours move at a relentless speed, leaving little room for immersion. However, many of today’s cultural tours are designed with a slower pace in mind, providing ample opportunities for local experiences and interactions—ideal for those looking for a more leisurely travel experience.
### 9. The Food and Accommodation Will Be Bland
The culinary offerings and lodging choices are vastly superior to the stereotypes surrounding group travel. Operators like Flash Pack prioritize unique stays and interesting cuisine, while others focus entirely on culinary experiences, ensuring that meals and accommodation aren’t mere afterthoughts but essential highlights of the trip.
### 10. Tours Are Always with Groups
While many think of group tours solely as large gatherings, private tours are a viable option for couples or solo travelers as well. Operators like Bellini Travel customize exclusive experiences, turning standard tours into personalized journeys.
### 11. They’re Not for Families
Family trips can become stressful without proper planning. Luckily, group tours designed for families take much of the hassle out of traveling with kids, creating memorable experiences that are entertaining and educational.
Traveling with others adds an invaluable social dimension to the experience that might otherwise be missing in solo exploration. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-timer, reconsider the thought of embarking on a group journey. With the right approach and the right company, group travel can be an exciting, enriching, and fulfilling way to see the world. What are your experiences with group tours?