Globus Transforms Touring with New Small Group Experiences
During the recent Virtuoso Travel Week, a palpable excitement filled the air as Scott Nisbet, CEO of Globus, unveiled the company’s bold new direction towards small group touring. Responding to the evolving preferences of travelers post-pandemic, Nisbet shared that Globus is “moving aggressively” into this niche, signifying a major shift in both the offerings and the structure of its tours. This strategic pivot reflects a growing trend among travelers who increasingly favor personalized and intimate experiences over traditional large group excursions.
Introduction of Small Group Discovery Tours
At the heart of Globus’s new strategy is the launch of over 50 Small Group Discovery tours, meticulously crafted for smaller groups—15 people for journeys in Europe and 18 for destinations outside Europe. This direct approach not only facilitates a more engaging travel experience but also allows for exclusive accommodations and unique excursions tailored to the smaller group size. Nisbet emphasized that these tours are specifically designed to enhance interactivity and immersion in local cultures.
Some exciting options showcased by Globus highlight the innovative experiences travelers can expect:
- Enchanted New Mexico: Spend an evening meandering through Santa Fe on a guided walking food tour, indulging in local culinary delights.
- Majestic Montana & Yellowstone: Experience the thrill of “glamping” in luxurious tents with the breathtaking Yellowstone National Park as your backdrop.
- Southern Charms: Take a leisurely tour of Beaufort by horse-drawn carriage, soaking in the charm of this picturesque area.
- Majestic Japan: Learn the art of cooking Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki using fresh local ingredients, a truly immersive culinary adventure.
Globus has already begun taking bookings for select tours scheduled in 2025, with an expectation that this intimate touring style will resonate strongly with travelers looking for tailored experiences.
Expanding Small Group Options Across the Portfolio
In addition to launching new small group tours, Globus is also offering small group alternatives for 30% of its existing portfolio. This allows travelers who cherish the Globus experience to enjoy it in a more intimate setting. With 250 tours and a total of 5,000 departures being reformatted to accommodate these smaller groups, this approach invites both new and seasoned travelers to explore destinations like never before.
Nisbet shared that the move stems not only from the necessity imposed by the pandemic but also from a deeper understanding of what travelers now prefer. The demand for these tours has been overwhelming; according to Nisbet, “These kinds of tours have sold out the fastest we’ve seen.” This reflects a profound shift in traveler expectations and highlights an industry-wide trend toward smaller, more personalized journeys.
The Rising Trend of Small Group Travel
The evolution toward small group tours is not limited solely to Globus. Nisbet observed that similar patterns are emerging across the travel landscape, particularly in river cruising, where travelers are seeking more intimate experiences. The pandemic has recalibrated how people approach travel, emphasizing safety, personal connection, and the desire for meaningful interactions with both fellow travelers and local cultures.
The growing inclination toward smaller groups indicates a significant change in consumer behavior, steering the travel industry toward offerings that cater to this desire for intimacy and engagement. Globus’s proactive steps to adapt to these changing preferences showcase a commitment to providing unforgettable travel experiences tailored to modern sensibilities.
As the industry returns to a semblance of normalcy, the successful integration of small group tours into Globus’s offerings underscores a dynamic shift in the way people wish to explore the world—highlighting that sometimes, less truly is more when it comes to travel experiences.