BLOG: Would You Take an Escorted Tour Vacation?

What comes to mind when you think of a "tour" vacation? You might be surprised. 

Globus Travel reports that 80 percent of travelers on their tours are boomers or younger and on their most popular Europe Tapestry vacation, the average age is 44. AND, travelers spend less than 20 percent of their time on a motor coach. 

Because many people have negative perceptions of what tours are, Trafalgar is dropping the word "tour" and instead is using words like "vacation" and "experiences" in their marketing.

I resisted tours for many years; however, I've come to enjoy the new style of "touring" and appreciate the knowledge and stories that excellent tour directors share. It's no longer the "If It's Tuesday, This Must Be Belgium" style of vacation where you are up at dawn, see the sites whizzing by your bus window and end up exhausted at the end of your vacation!

Tours today are slower paced, give you more authentic experiences and make your planning simple. You'll find traveling companions with similar interests and have exclusive VIP access to popular museums and cultural centers, while you still have plenty of free time to go off on your own for exploring.

There are also independent options where you can book your hotel and spend half-day with a local guide who will show you the highlights and make recommendations for things to see on your own. All your transfers are arranged for you, so you don't have to drive jet-lagged in a new city or wonder, "Is that my train?"

I'm a convert to tour vacations. How about you?  I'd love to hear your about your experiences here.