4 Instances When Guided Travel is Better

For experienced travellers, the words 'guided vacation' make us nervous. After all, who wants to be stuck on a tour bus all day, looking at landmarks just because those are the tour guides’ priority.

Guided Tour. Copyright: aesta1

Tangier. Source: aesta1

There are a few instances, however, in which a guided vacation might be just the ticket and here they are:
1. Notoriously dangerous areas of the world;
2. Physically threatening sports;
3. Historically complicated sites that are so confusing, yet are turning points in history; and
4. Consideration for your companions.

In these instances, getting specific support really make sense.

Guided Travel in Tangier. Source: aesta1

Notoriously Dangerous Areas of the World

Don't Go Alone. We're not talking about fear-mongering here – we're talking about legitimate dangers that no intelligent traveler can ignore. War-torn countries, for example, are generally not recommended for independent travel.

This rule applies even if you're heading for a region where there is no active fighting. Foreigners can easily end up as political prisoners – or worse. If you must visit these countries during times of political upheaval, go with a guided tour. Pick one offered by a company based in your own country, if possible.

Tangier. Source: aesta1

Remember, situations change very quickly on the ground. If you go where there’s no risk you end up missing half the world but if you don’t manage the risk, you’re just begging for problems.

As an example, January 2014. Is this a good time to visit Bangkok? Clearly, there are political problems there and some dangers but these are very localized and a good tour guide will just steer you around them.

Diving Vacation. Copyright: aesta1

Physically Threatening Sports

White water rafting in the rapids of Alberta? Scuba diving the Great Barrier Reef? Trekking in Nepal? Awesome – if you're experienced and if you avoid them because you are not experienced, how will you ever become experienced?

For the inexperienced, however, trips such as these can be dangerous. What level of fitness do you need? What are the demands that will be put on you? What equipment do you need access to? Who will provide safety oversight?

Thankfully, there are tons of vacation packages – in many different price ranges – designed specifically for the inexperienced. You can choose a fully-guided tour, or cut costs and increase independence by simply hiring an instructor or guide for a day.

Horseback Riding. Source: aesta1

There are huge benefits to these options, even if they do cost a bit more than going it alone. First, you'll have the peace of mind of knowing precisely where you're going. It's easier than you might think to become lost in the wilderness, particularly if that wilderness is an entirely different climate than what you're used to back home. A reputable guide will ensure you don't become stuck on a frozen boulder if your kayak flips mid-river.

Guides can also, in many cases, teach you invaluable skills in a very short amount of time. Some scuba instructors, for example, are licensed to teach basics in just a few hours. You'll be limited in the depth of water you can explore, but it's better than sitting on the shore and watching the fun from a distance!

Barcelona Spain. Copyright: aesta1

Here’s where you can really have fun. Take a city like Ephesus. There’s so much stuff went down there from so many cultures over so many years that without a really knowledgeable local person, the whole visit is a waste of time.

Or, Syracusa, a largely unknown city at the bottom of Sicily but the details discovered in a day of well guided tourism can really change your understanding of the ebb and flow of cultures and economies and styles of life in the whole Mediterranean basin.

Complex Historical Circumstances

Religious Ritual in Nepal. Copyright: aesta1

Consider Your Travel Companions

If you're traveling with friends, they probably share your level of adventurous spirit. If you're traveling with parents or older relatives, however, be considerate of their requests. Has your mother always wanted to see Italy? Great! She might not, however, want to deal with watching you try to handle foreign traffic.

In the case of older and slightly more cautious travel companions, it's only courteous to put their needs first. You have plenty of time to run wild across Italy by yourself or with friends. Be considerate, and treat Mom to the sedate, relaxing vacation she's been dreaming of!

On your own or guided travel? source: aesta1

Choose Wisely
Before you make a purchasing decision, whether it's for a guided tour or a guide-for-a-day, ask questions.

Travel agents can be helpful, as can trusted peer-review websites. If your sport of choice requires a license (such as scuba diving) don't be afraid to ask locally to see if a guide really is qualified.

Do you prefer guided tours? Share your preference in the Comments below.

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