When you’re planning to travel, the first two things you need to consider is, first, the location or the destination and second, is if you would like to do it on your own or just join a tour group or a guided tour. Each of course, has their own pros and cons, it can even affect your travel budget tremendously, so if there is a restriction on your travel budget, this is one huge section of the travel where you can make a difference!
For the benefit of traveling seniors, here are some point you need to consider to help you decide whether to join group tours or just plan your trips on your own:
PROS:
·    CONVENIENCE.  Tired of doing all those research and map consultations just to plan your next trip? Then might as well sign up with group tours, choose your itinerary, pay your trip and just show up on time for departure. Highly recommended if this is your first time visiting the said destination.
·    SECURITY. This is true if you signed up with a reputable tour group company, greater if they specifically cater to seniors. Seniors traveling alone must also consider joining one than doing it on your own, unless you are familiar with the area you are going to.
·    COST EFFECTIVE. Group tours usually come in discounted rates—and it doesn’t apply only to airfares, they are most likely to include tour guide, transportation, hotel and meals. Group tours are charged per trip, not individualized.
·    EASY ACCESS TO PLACES. Group tours, like your grandchild’s field trips, are given easy access to popular tourist spots since your tour group company most likely “reserved” a specific time for your group, eliminating the possibility of standing in line for hours!
CONS:
·    TIME FLEXIBILITY is probably next to zero. Upon joining, seniors will be introduced to a pre-set itinerary, complete with time and dates which you have to observe at all times. You cannot just leave a place when you’re bored or linger a little longer if you enjoy the scene, you need to stick with your pack.
·    LIMITED FREE TIME. Group tours usually start very early and end too late, leaving you only evenings to do shopping or visit places on your own.
·    NEVER PERSONALIZED TOURS. Given that you are touring with a group, never expect the tour to always consider your strength and weaknesses such as a bad knee and other health issues you may have.
·    NO PRIVACY. Group tours, well, they do things as a group: you share a bus, lodge in the same hotel, share meals, climb the same steps.. If the idea behind the trip is to have a second honeymoon of sorts with your partner then group tours are certainly not for you!