Small group tours, planned with like-minded strangers or a group of close friends, are a great way to explore a destination. Traveling for a week or two with just ten or twelve people on a specially planned adventure can be the height of luxury travel. These small group tours are about as far away from the typical ‘big bus tour’ as possible. Instead of a very structured group tour with as many as 40 people lumbering off a big tour bus, snapping a few photos and then clambering back on to drive to the next destination, small group tours can be bespoke and luxurious. Here’s how they are the antidote to the impersonal nature of large generic tours:
Luxury Accommodation
When traveling on a small group tour, you often receive a better price on accommodations (vs. traveling individually). This means that incredibly luxurious and beautiful accommodations can become more accessible. Smaller accommodations in surprising locations that connect with the local communities can’t accommodate big bus tours, because they just don’t have enough rooms.
The grand villas, stylish beach bungalows, and unique castle stays are often found just outside the city centers. When you travel on a small group adventure, you’ll have a private driver, ensuring you can enjoy both the highlights of the cities and the unique accommodations outside the city.
[Photo Credit: Client via Shared Adventures – read about their 26-person Mexican Villa Adventure here!]
Local Guide
Traveling with a guide in a small group tour allows you to focus on the destination, the people, and the culture you’re visiting. Forget worrying about your luggage or hailing a taxi or getting to the next place. The tour guide allows you to think more deeply and ponder the places. They have local connections and can take you to visit off-the-beaten-path destinations.
These tours are led by passionate locals who are excited to share their culture and their home with you. They are guides who are interested in meeting people from around the world and connecting with you on a personal level. In a small group, you are more than just a number.
[Photo Credit: Ann via Shared Adventures – read about her adventure in Fiji here!]
In-depth VIP Experiences
Many unique experiences require a minimum number of people to make it worthwhile for the locals to provide. Small groups are the perfect size to gain access to private local experiences. Without sharing it with hundreds of others, or not being able to access it at all, as individuals. You’ll do more than scratch the surface of a destination.
Imagine a Japanese tea ceremony in a special room just for your group, or a wine tasting at a typically closed winery. You’ll be able to learn about local productions and visit local artisans. Experiences that the typical tourist misses when they’re wandering around the city.
[Photo Credit: Ann via Shared Adventures – read about her adventure in Tuscany here!]
More Free Time and A Private Driver
Some travelers worry about being overscheduled or overprogrammed. Large group tours have a schedule to keep, and you don’t get as much time to simply wander – especially because they have to keep track of everyone! In a small group trip, you’ll have the luxury to explore at a more leisurely pace. The itineraries will carefully balance the time you wander around charming little villages with the time you’re guided through the famous sites. And, they ensure you visit those sites in style. Rather than a big motorcoach, you’ll have a private driver, taking you around in a luxury van.
Meaningful Connection
Discerning travelers seek meaningful and unique adventures full of connection and cultural appreciation. We know that you’re no longer places going just for the sake of going. You want the opportunity to dive deeper into the culture, revel in local connections and slow down as you enjoy the place you’re visiting.
With the right small group tour, you’ll not only experience those connections with the place you’re visiting, but you’ll enjoy a connection with your fellow travelers. Shared experiences foster a sense of belonging and togetherness. Becoming part of a shared narrative can add richness to any journey.
[Photo Credit: Ann via Shared Adventures – read about her adventure in South Africa here!]
Hidden Gems
Time and time again, we’re asked by clients to find hidden gems and local experiences. In today’s oversaturated world, we seek the authentic side of a destination rather than the slickly curated tourist attractions. With a small group adventure, it’s easier to experience those hidden gems. Small group tours do include some big-name sites, but they also ensure you visit the local mom-and-pop shop. You’ll have some of the best dinners and most incredible wines from locations you would never think to try or enter. That’s the luxurious benefit of a small group tour.
Are you ready to travel in luxury and style with a small group? Whether you’re looking to plan a trip with just your friends or you’re ready to find the perfect pre-planned small group adventure — let us know! We’re always here to help.