I've just come back from Australia and New Zealand which many of you may have already seen me write about on this blog or post photos on my instagram (rhianlynsey).
I booked myself an appointment in the nearest STA agents and she suggested an organised tour. Contiki was the company that they booked with apparently. I knew these sorts of groups existed but I'd never heard of Contiki before.
So back to my initial thought, what is contiki?
'We’re firm believers that life’s greatest experiences are made better by the people you share them with. That’s why Contiki invented group travel for young people in 1962 and we’ve spent the past 53 years perfecting it. You’ll explore amazing destinations with a group of 18-35 year olds from around the world who share your passion for adventure, good times and creating memories that define what it is to be young, wild and free.' Is what it says on their website, along with their slogan One Lifetime, One Shot, Make it Count #NoRegrets
You can read all about them on their website along with following their twitter and instagram etc.
Who goes on these contiki tours?
'We're all about exploring the world with like-minded people, which is why we only run trips for 18-35 year olds, to celebrate being young, spirited and curious. You can expect to join a group of 18-53 awesome people from around the world on our Europe, Australia, North America and New Zealand trips, and in Asia and Latin America it's all about small group adventures with up to 25 travellers. Don't worry if you're not travelling as a couple or with a friend from home – though there are plenty of pairs, 50% of our travellers set off solo, meaning you'll have a ton of opportunities to make new friends.' Yes, I was one of those travelling alone, along with many others. So if you are interested in travelling, but don't have anyone to go with nor do you want to travel alone then consider tour groups like Contiki.
Obviously contiki isn't the only tour company like this to exist but seeming as I've only travelled with Contiki I'm not in a position to pass comment on them.
So you may be wondering what the tour groups are like, and what if you don't like the people you're with. Granted it is a hit or miss, but there is bound to be at least one person you get along with and make friends with. It's a great way to meet people from all over the world, and that means you can spend even more time travelling over to see them, and then returning the favour so they come to stay with you. In many cases you make life long friends. Such a nice way to meet new people, that you're forced to meet in a way.
Yes these tours can be expensive but they're also hassle free. They organise everything for you and all you have to do is get there and enjoy! It was a plus for me who isn't great at organising things in foreign countries.
They tell you where to be what times, give you great facts and information on the road (which you might not learn by yourself), they know all the best spots so can suggest where to go/eat etc, they book all your extra activities for you, and organise nights out. The Tour Managers work tirelessly to provide you with the best experience.
I will be travelling with them again; also check out Top Deck, Trek America, G Adventures, Plan My Gap Year.
Happy Travels!
lynsey x
