Recently, there has been more emphasis on setting a pace that allows for some free time in each destination and spending more than one night in a location. However, multi-country tours with many stops are also offered.

In addition to the traditional group tour, small group, cultural emersion themed itineraries with 12-20 guests (size varies by tour) and the addition of activities such as cooking classes and interaction with the local people, have become popular. You can also join an active vacation group, featuring hiking, biking, or multisport activities.

Below are descriptions of some of the different types of land tours you can choose, from largest group to smallest.

Most tour operators have temporarily reduced group size for the near future.

With so many options to choose from, Arrow Discovery Travel will help you determine which tour best matches your vision and budget. Contact Us to discuss your options.

Large group Guided Vacations (Escorted tour)

This is the easiest and most economical way to visit many destinations over a large geographical area. Transportation between cities/sites is usually via deluxe motor coach, train or even plane if covering a very large area. Every detail is planned for you, you just relax and enjoy!

• Group size varies, but average around 40+
• Professional Tour Director
• Daily sightseeing, including entrance fees
• Local expert guides
• Baggage handling
• Accommodations
• Some meals
• Many famous cities and sites
• Some tours offer optional excursions, some are all- inclusive
• Fixed dates/some guaranteed departures
• Many itineraries, places and budget options available

Small group Guided Vacations

A stress-free way to enjoy a more in-depth exploration of a specific region of a country
Small group size allows for more intimate venues and specialty inclusions
All arrangements are handled for you

• Group size 12-26 (varies by tour)
• Tour Director
• Minibus or van
• Smaller cities and towns often included
• Some accommodations may be more intimate, i.e. a Villa or at a vineyard
• Some meals
• Immersive experiences bring the destination to life
• Specialty inclusions (wine tastings, cooking classes, etc)
• Fixed dates/some guaranteed departures
• Private tour guides

Small group Private/Custom tour

Plan your itinerary

• Group size 6-12 (can arrange for larger groups)
• Customizable
• Any destination or combination of destinations
• Flexible departure dates and trip length
• Choice of accommodation
• Choice of tours, excursions & specialty inclusions
• Transportation with private driver via minibus, van, sedan or train, depending on group size & distance between destinations
• Private tour director and city guides available
• Schedule free time as desired

 

Independent Hosted

A hybrid of independent and escorted travel, hosted tours combine the best of both. The itineraries, hotels, and transportation are planned in advance, you have a local host who meets with you at the hotel every morning to discuss and help you arrange what you want to do while you are in town, and you have a guided tour of the city included on your first morning. You may add activities of your choosing or be free to explore on your own. If your itinerary includes multiple destinations, transportation (usually via train) is provided to your next destination.

• Fixed departure dates and itineraries
• May have a limited choice of hotel
• Services of a local hosts
• Limited guided sightseeing included
• Free time to explore on your own
• Ability to add activities and excursions to suit your interests
• Ability to add flights and transfers

Independent On your own

• 1-6 in your travel party
• Flexible dates and trip length
• Any destination or combination of destinations
• Plan your itinerary; add as many components to your trip in advance as you want
• Accommodations, choose the location, style, and price to suit you
• Transfers
• Tours and specialty experiences (group or private)
• Train or plane tickets
• Schedule as much free time as desired

Independent Private Tour

2-4 persons

Similar to a small group private tour in that you can arrange for a host or tour director to be available to you. Usually includes many private tours and specialty inclusions which can be coordinated by your host who may also serve as your private driver. This is the most expensive option due to the high level of service and the small number of guests.