Posted on Tuesday, 11 July 2017

For some, the term 'escorted tour' conjures up notions of being molly-coddled and constantly watched over while on holiday. For others, this type of holiday offers a way to arrange overseas travels as part of a group, where the needs of older adventurers are better met. Here we look at some of the pros and cons of opting for such a package.

It's important to remember that not all escorted tours are run in the same way. Some may organise everything down to the last detail, while others may leave more of the day-to-day planning to you. With this in mind, it's important to find out the details of the itinerary and if possible to read reviews of those who have experienced the tour. Listening to in-the-know friends or relatives might also be invaluable.

The Cons

One of the potential downsides of an escorted tour is that it may cost more than a regular tour – and in many cases more than planning it by yourself.

Being spontaneous may also be more difficult while you're away. A desire to see a particular attraction – or even to take a rest day – may seem less possible as part of a group tour. However, by choosing an escorted tour, there is perhaps an understanding that you are happy to let someone else take over the management of your trip – to a large degree.

The Pros

An escorted tour designed for older travellers should have a number of benefits built-in. For example, you may get to travel with like-minded, older travellers of a similar background. Such a tour may present a great way to meet new people. Single holidaymakers are sure to meet other single travellers, as well as people in couples and groups.

This type of tour is also likely to be designed around the needs of more mature adventurers: this could mean a more leisurely pace, fewer 'active' elements and plenty of time for rest breaks. Such tours also tend to feature attractions that older travellers may prefer: castles and art galleries as opposed to theme parks and bungee jumping!

Many escorted tour providers also let you choose the size of group you would prefer: some feel more comfortable in smaller groups, while others enjoy the atmosphere of bigger groups.

Escorted tours are rarely cheap – but the benefit of paying more is that you're likely to enjoy a higher class of accommodation, transport, food and tour guide skill level – among other plus-points. Such quality tends to be more appreciated in later life!

What If I'm An Older Thrill Seeker?

Of course, not all travellers are made the same: some love a bit of adventure and an adrenalin rush – whatever their age.

With this in mind, escorted tour operators tend to offer more 'active' packages too, from visiting hill tribes in northern Thailand, to getting up close and personal with wildlife on the Galapagos Islands.

What's Included?

What your package includes depends – of course – but you'll often enjoy free transfers, tour guides, some meals and entrance fees to most, if not all, attractions.

The key thing here is research. Be sure to request a number of brochures and see what's available. Given the substantial cost of such holiday, it's worth investing some time and effort to understand exactly what you'll get for your money.

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