AARP Hearing Center
Group tours can take a lot of the hassle out of traveling. Typically, the tour provider handles logistics such as booking hotels, arranging transportation and making reservations for some meals. Group tours also can be a great opportunity to make friends with like-minded travelers. In addition, tours can be an optimal choice for travelers over 50 who need extra support to accommodate disabilities, need guidance to reach a bucket-list destination or want to visit an off-the-beaten path destination.
However, choosing the right group tour that fits your budget, style and abilities isn’t easy. Asking these 25 questions can help.
1. How much free time will I have?
Some tours are action-packed, while others include plenty of scheduled downtime. It’s important to select a tour that aligns with your preferences. Daniel Herszberg, cofounder of Travel Insighter, who operates Fiery Hearts Tours, says his tours are “extremely fast-paced, with long 12-plus hour days” because “many people aren’t returning to these destinations, and I want to pack everything in.” Other tours are intentional about building in plenty of free time. Dig into your tour’s schedule to ensure it’s a good fit.
2. How large is the group size?
Some tours have large groups, while others are limited to a small number of travelers. “There is no right answer here,” Herszberg says. “Some travelers are looking for more social experiences, others are after a more bespoke boutique experience.” However, knowing how many people will be on your tour “is crucial for managing expectations,” he explains. They each have their pros and cons. “Small groups offer a more intimate, memorable experience,” says Nicole Wilburn, senior brand and communications manager of The Tour Guy. However, “large groups aren’t necessarily bad because they can mitigate a difficult person,” and you give more options for socializing, says Diane Darling, a former tour leader who is now in her 50s.
3. What are the accommodations like?
Accommodations vary greatly depending on the tour and location. They “can vary from charming boutique hotels, rustic eco-lodges or centrally located apartments,” says Leigh Barnes, president for the Americas at Intrepid Travel. Ask about the type of accommodations on your tour before booking to ensure you will be comfortable. Some tour companies list the specific hotels they use on their websites. Others indicate if the hotels are premium or basic. Some tours include local accommodations, such as a historic riad in Morocco, a haveli in India or a homestay with a local family, which may appeal to some travelers. However, others may prefer a higher class of accommodations with all the comforts of home.
4. How accessible is the tour?
Travelers who are concerned about accessibility should ask about accommodations in advance. That’s especially important for tours outside of the United States, where the Americans with Disabilities Act generally does not apply, and the local equivalent may have fewer requirements. Barnes suggests asking detailed questions: “Are there elevators? Ground-floor rooms? Walk-in showers? Will staff be available to assist with luggage?” Another tip: research the accessibility of the destination. Asking, “Are there steep hills, cobblestone streets or long walks between activities?” can help ensure a tour is right for you, Barnes says.
Be honest about the type of physical activity you're comfortable with.
Sam Island
5. What is the physical activity level?
Activities in group tours run the gamut from gentle walks to hiking rugged terrain. It’s important to “be honest with yourself about what you’re comfortable with, especially if you have mobility issues or specific health needs,” says Barnes . “Overestimating what you can handle might lead to exhaustion or even injury, so it’s worth finding a tour that matches your personal comfort level,” says John Gobbels, chief operating officer of MedjetAssist. If you are physically active and exercise daily, a tour that involves sitting for several hours a day might not be right for you either. Looking into the physical activity level of the tour is essential to finding one that is just right.
6. Can the tour handle my medical needs?
Travelers with medical needs should ask if the tour company can handle their medical conditions. “If you have specific medical needs, let us know in advance so the company can provide guidance and help you prepare,” Barnes says. It’s essential to know whether the tour can accommodate your medical concerns before you book. It’s also important to ask how medical emergencies will be handled. Tour companies should be able to “advise on the availability of pharmacies and medical facilities in the destinations” you are planning to visit, Barnes says, adding that most tour leaders are trained to handle emergencies.
7. What is the transportation like?
Many tours involve long hours of travel between destinations. Herszberg says knowing what type of transportation you will be using is essential to managing expectations and ensuring that a tour fits your style. “Everyone has their own standards and requirements, but you want to be well aware up front,” he says. Barnes also suggests asking whether longer journeys include stops to stretch and take in the scenery.
8. Will I meet like-minded travelers?
“It’s worth asking about the demographics” to see whether the group will include people in your age range, Barnes suggests. “Knowing this can help you feel more at ease and excited about the social side of the trip,” he says. Some tour operators run tours specifically for older travelers. For example, Road Scholar gears all of its trips toward travelers over 50. Intrepid Travel and Explore Worldwide also offer tours specifically for travelers over 50.
