Choosing the right travel company can significantly enhance your journey, especially when seeking specialized experiences. For those interested in small group tours, particularly in regions like the Balkans, comparing different operators is essential. This review examines several companies, focusing on what they offer and how they cater to different travel preferences.
Overseas Adventure Travel (OAT) stands out as a strong contender for travelers who appreciate intimate group settings. Having personally experienced three OAT tours, including a recent “Crossroads of the Adriatic” adventure through the former Yugoslavia, the appeal is clear. OAT typically caps group sizes at just 16 people, fostering a more personalized and engaging travel experience. A significant advantage, particularly for solo travelers, is the readily available free single supplement on many of their tours. This policy can represent substantial savings and makes solo travel with OAT exceptionally attractive. The company primarily focuses on the U.S. market, meaning you’ll mostly be traveling with fellow Americans, which can be a plus for some seeking shared cultural perspectives.
Gate 1 Travel presents a different approach. Observing their groups frequently sharing hotels with OAT tours provided some comparative insights. Gate 1 groups are noticeably larger, often double the size of OAT’s, which naturally impacts the group dynamic and level of individual attention from guides. Interestingly, Gate 1 tours often include a more diverse mix of nationalities among travelers. In terms of itinerary and pace, Balkan tours from Gate 1 seem to cover more ground in less time, potentially appealing to those wanting a faster-paced overview. It’s also worth noting that Gate 1 tends to offer more activities as “optional extras,” meaning they come at an additional cost beyond the base tour price. While these options provide flexibility, they can also add up financially.
National Geographic Expeditions represents another category of travel company, often associated with premium, brand-name tours. While the prestige of the National Geographic name is undeniable, it often comes with a significantly higher price tag. Comparing brochures for destinations like Egypt, it appears that National Geographic tours can cost at least twice as much as OAT for seemingly comparable itineraries, accommodations, and activities. One differentiator sometimes highlighted is the inclusion of a U.S.-based expert, such as a college professor, accompanying the tour in addition to local guides. However, based on personal experience with OAT’s exceptionally knowledgeable in-country guides, the added value of a U.S. professor might be questionable for many travelers, especially considering the substantial cost increase.
Ultimately, the “best travel company” depends on individual priorities. For those prioritizing small group sizes, personalized attention, and value, especially with the benefit of single supplements, Overseas Adventure Travel appears to be an excellent choice. Gate 1 offers a more budget-conscious option with larger groups and a potentially faster pace, while National Geographic caters to those seeking a premium, brand-associated experience, albeit at a higher cost. Carefully considering these factors will help you select the travel company that best aligns with your travel style and preferences for your next adventure.
