Are you planning a vacation and trying to decide between an organized tour and being on your own? That can be a tough decision but there are many great reasons to consider a tour!

Most of us plan vacations, at least in part, to relax and unwind from our hectic careers. Organized tours are the perfect way to guarantee that you spend your vacation time stress-free! To begin with, all the plans are made for you. You don't have to decide how far to drive each day or what stops to make. You don't have to decide which hotel would be best or which restaurant will have good food!

On a typical organized tour, a representative of the company will meet you at a central location. For many people this meeting will take place at an airport. Once you collect your bags from the airport baggage carousel, you will not have to lift them again for the duration of your vacation. You and your bags will be transported to a meeting place, generally a hotel, where you will be introduced to your tour guide and your fellow travelers.

You will most likely travel from location to location on board a luxury bus. The seats will be plush, the bathroom will be small but clean, and the seats will be rotated. Both your guide and driver will be incredibly professional, knowledgeable, and friendly! Daily events begin on time and schedules are adhered to. You will be informed when your bags will be picked up and when to arrive at the bus.

Daily activities are planned well in advance, guaranteeing that you will not spend your time waiting in lines. Meals will be delicious, food will be plentiful, and alcohol will be available. Your admittance to various sites will be included in the price of the tour and you will not be "nickel and dimed" as you would be when traveling on your own. One of the most wonderful things about a tour is the knowledge that your guide will provide about the local culture. You will walk away feeling as though you really experienced your location. Don't worry that all your time will be scheduled as there are always afternoons available for you to make your own choices.

One highlight of your tour will be your fellow travelers. At the beginning, most people are somewhat shy, but by the third day you will feel like old friends. Make a point to spend quality time talking to everyone. Sit with different people at meals. You will meet many wonderful, fun people, and you will find that you have much in common. Couples, families, and even people traveling alone will be comfortable in this setting. These people will make your tour memorable and you will miss them when it is time to say goodbye.

Consider these things when planning your next vacation and give serious thought to a tour. You won't be sorry and your first one won't be your last!