Be Inspired
34 / Escorted Touring
When less
is more The pandemic forced tour operators to adapt and reduce group sizes, resulting in more immersive experiences and deeper connections, says Debbie Ward
W
ith some clients still nervous about larger gatherings, small group tours can be a reassuring option. While adventure operators like Exodus, Explore, Intrepid and G Adventures are small group experts, the market is widening, with several traditionally coach-based escorted touring companies now offering programmes for 25 passengers or fewer. Riviera accelerated plans to launch smaller tours, adding them alongside each Classic tour in its European range. It also debuted an entirely small group UK range. Great Rail Journeys has meanwhile capped its UK and Europe tour groups at 25 people. The pandemic has also increased appetite for bucket list experiences that are often best accessed through small group tours, and the market seems buoyant.
Benefits of downsizing Titan says requests for its small group programme are up, as people seek off-the-beaten track adventures.
“It seems people are keen to really delve deeper below the surface of a destination,” says Product Manager, Phil Ellis. He adds: “[there’s] the chance to really get to know your fellow travellers and bond over incredible travel moments.” Titan’s small groups range between 12 and 24 people. Edwina Coppock, Head of Trade Sales, explains this also aids community access. “Keeping things small lets us plan activities and experiences that aren’t usually possible for bigger groups, like seeing the closing of the border ceremony between India and Pakistan or enjoying coffee with locals in Ethiopia. “It also means we can organise some unique overnight stays – intimate camps around Kruger National Park, quaint country lodges in KwaZulu-Natal (both South Africa), and stilted Khmer houses in Cambodia.” Newmarket’s Head of Trade Sales Richard Forde agrees. Its tours for around 16-20 people appeal to customers seeking things off-the-beaten-track.
“These often include smaller heritage hotels and even homestays with local families, where customers really get to experience a country rather than just sight-see.” Explore, which typically takes 12 clients per group, points out there are also environmental advantages. “We have a smaller impact on both the people and the place which we visit; a softer footprint,” says Ben Ittensohn, Director of Global Sales. Mattia Valdegamberi, Riviera’s Shorthaul Product Manager, points out more benefits of smaller group tours: “We offer a more personal service which gives guests the ability to experience guided tours and visits with a bit more exclusivity, as well as more space and more opportunities for interaction with local guides and tour managers.” Saga, which is now working with selected travel agencies, also points to the more exclusive experiences enabled by smaller numbers, like visiting the ballet in St Petersburg on its Cultural Odyssey tours.
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