For many, the idea of tackling a major European city or the national parks of the American west seems daunting. It's a lot of ground to cover on your own, and the logistics can be challenging to figure out. But there's a travel solution for these scenarios that's often overlooked – taking a guided vacation.
“A guided vacation is a package where we create travel experiences that are seamless with planning,” says Christian Leibl-Cote, Senior Vice President of Global Business at AAA Member Choice Vacations. "[We create] itineraries where you get to see unique must-see experiences and have plenty of free time. We also organize all of the transportation from day one all the way through the last day."
There are numerous benefits of taking a guided vacation, but getting to travel with a tour manager can make a trip to an unfamiliar destination much more manageable.
“[The tour manager] understands the local culture and the locals,” says Leibl-Cote. “They’re a great way for you to communicate with the locals, even if it’s in a different language. They also create unique experiences you would never be able to have on your own.”
Visiting a new destination for the first time can be scary – that's why the peace of mind associated with guided vacations can help put your mind at ease. Guided vacations provide travelers with a sense of comfort while still allowing for cultural immersion. Tour managers know the intimate details of destinations, helping travelers stay safe and comfortable for the duration of their journey. In addition, tour managers can often provide a detailed history of destinations and landmarks.
As nations worldwide reopen to travelers, tour operators like AAA Member Choice Vacations are monitoring local regulations to ensure traveler safety and opportunity.
“The borders might be open, but museums or restaurants might be closed,” says Leibl-Cote. “We want to make sure that all of our guests get what they paid for and to make sure they have an amazing experience.”
