Travelling almost anywhere in the world can be achieved on a bus. Bus tours usually provide value to the travellers but not all bus tours are the same. Nobody tour company will ever satisfy everyone’s needs for travel. Here we provide some tips on comparing bus tours. Generally, the best tours deliver what they promise.
Size of tour
The tour size depends upon many factors, mainly the bus size. However some specialty tours, like photography, cooking, along with other interest tours limit numbers because of other reasons. In nearly all cases the conditions of the air-conditioned buses are great and their maintenance is current. They offer comfortable seats and other amenities like toilets up to speed. Small tours range from 8 to 20 participants, while large bus tours range between 20 to 55 participants.
Cheap, value or luxury tour
The cheapest bus tours are ridiculously cheap and generally participants pay extra for everything. There is nothing included apart from travel and the accommodation.
Luxury bus tours generally include everything and provide luxury accommodation options and could have even several empty seats on the bus to create it more comfortable.
Make sure you do sufficient research to confirm that the tour company meets your expectations of travel. Some bus tour companies own their buses and staff an informal, others hire buses but have permanent staff. Each business design has its advantages and disadvantages. All generally claim to function as “best”. Small tour groups are more intimate for most reasons, while the larger groups are herded about form place to place with military precision.
Confirm that there is sufficient time at the attractions to enjoy them and for many individuals the small tours provide a minimum of 2 night stays so that participants do not have to pack and unpack every day. Most of the cheap tours move hotels every day to pack as much into the itinerary as you possibly can.
Tips for bus tour travellers
Be sure the provider is reputable
Go with the tiniest group size that one could afford
Concur that the accommodation is in the city (not the outskirts)
Avoid tours with multiple one-night stays
Require authentic food experiences and know very well what meals are included
Read the fine-print including inclusions, exclusions and cancellation policies
When you compare prices – compare total costs, not just in advance tour costs
In summary, not all tours will be the same. Smaller value tours often supply the best experience for many who enjoy culture, history and meeting new people.
