What to decide? Suggestions please

[darkestdwelling]

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Hello all,

I'm looking to go to Europe in April/ May 2006. I've been doing some researching here and there and there seem like endless options. I've looked at Contiki, TopDeck, and Budget Expeditions. Some seem really affordable but I'm wondering what these tour companies are like. I'm looking to go to either Italy, Greece or Spain. Or all three if the price is right. Any helpful suggestions?

thx

[coastingeurope]

Hi,

If you aren't comfortable travelling independently, I would opt for Contiki. It's nice because the people will all be around your age and their tours just have a young spunk to them. I did their European Highlights tour last summer and had so much fun. I've also travelled a lot on my own in Europe, and I can vouch that Contiki covers things pretty well. I went to Greece last year for Spring Break and figuring out the Islands and their schedules can be a little crazy. I haven't done the Contiki Greek Island hopping, but I heard it's really fun. In hindsight I wish I'd done that instead of trying to figure it out on my own because we accidently travelled six hours to a deserted island (don't ask!). . They also have one that goes to Greece and Turkey (I think it's called Golden Fleece tour?) that sounds amazing!

Basically, the Contiki tours will show you the highlights and major tourist spots in a given country, and then they will give you time to go explore things on your own. It's nice because you are instantly travelling with a group of friends and there is always something fun or exciting going on, but you can also getaway and go off on your own whenever you want.

Hope this helps!