3. Free Time vs. Scheduled Programme
Another thing to check on properly is the tour group’s schedule, to know exactly what you signed up for. More often than not, you may not realise how far apart locations are, and you may end up spending a lot more time on the bus than actually relaxing on your holiday.
Also, some tour companies may squeeze in a lot of additional and unimportant (and uninteresting) stops or ‘sites’, simply because they get a commission, or have made an agreement to encourage you to shop there.
Free and easy tours might suit you better if you would like more personal time, or time to see and do what you prefer.
4. Cheaper Doesn’t Mean Better!
Don’t mistake names such as “basic” or “backpacker” for the trip to have better value than the standard agency tours. Sometimes to lower the price, certain sights or activities may be dropped.
Would you go all the way to Moscow and not visit the Red Square? Or to Siem Reap without seeing Angkor Wat? The transportation and accommodation may be simpler, or cheaper, but the value of your trip (especially in terms of experience) is drastically lowered despite the money you save.
5. Their Commission is Not Your Problem
As mentioned, some tours might include visits to jewellery stores, leather goods warehouses or tourist shops, which include commission for the tour operators if tourists buy their products.
If the price seems reasonable enough to you, you might as well save a couple of cents instead of running around shopping elsewhere for a better deal. But don’t feel obligated to spend at any of these designated “shopping” spots.
In short, it is to your benefit to do a little research, and to know your stuff before you book.
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