Coach tours - 10 myths busted

Hark back to the 1950s and everyone was at it - as a cheaper, more flexible way of travelling, the coach trip was king. But if you've caught an episode of Coach Trip recently, you may have noticed a distinct lack of kingliness!

However, telly is not always an accurate reflection of reality <surprise> and most coach tours still have the perks that made them popular in the 50s (cheaper, more flexible), and more besides.

Many coach touring companies go out of their way to provide a customisable, comfortable experience for everyone. With a little bit of research you could be on your dream holiday soon - why not start by having a look at some common myths and misconceptions about coach tours.  

1. Escorted touring is for old people

This is probably the number one myth, perpetuated by a few coach tour companies that still only cater for the very mature age bracket. However, most others are miles away from this, with touring companies having an increasingly mixed clientele of baby boomers aged 45 to 68, young professionals and holidaymakers under 21.

2. Doing it ourselves is cheaper

Unless you have great contacts, an encyclopedic knowledge of the best value for money places to stay and access to deals that others don't, you may find it difficult to put together a holiday that ticks all the required boxes.

An established tour company may have better buying power when purchasing packages, with the resultant lower costs passed on to the consumer. By using a tour company, with its associated expertise and buying power, you maximise your chances of being satisfied with your accommodation and are likely to benefit from extra perks at a fraction of what you would pay when booking your own holiday.

3. We will lose our independence on a tour

Every holiday and tour company will be slightly different, but it is unlikely that you will have no control over your activities. Check with the company before booking. If your tour party are staying at the same hotel for a few nights, decide for yourself how much you want to join in on the daily excursions. For example if you are in the South of France and fancy a beach day instead of a visit to a perfumery and wine tasting, then you should be free to do so. 

4. We will have limited time in one place

There are a variety of touring styles to cater for different needs, so you don't have to be rushed from place to place if you prefer a more leisurely pace. Look out for one that lets you relax and have three or four nights in each location. Conversely, if you want to see a lot more in a limited time then there are plenty of tour companies that can accommodate you. 

5. You'll spend hours upon hours on a coach

Not necessarily. The journey could include a cruise or a flight, depending on where you're going and who you're travelling with. You could get picked up from your home and taken to an airport, and pick up the coach tour on the other end, for example. Often, the journey time between destinations is very manageable, especially if you're embarking on a city tour. 

6. Coaches are old fashioned and cramped

Again, it depends on which tour company you use. Many modern coaches have air-conditioning, full panoramic windows, on-board washroom facilities and free Wi-Fi. 

7. Tour guides are just quoting from the books

Tour guides often perform multiple functions, whether that is as a personal concierge, a guide book or a friend in an unfamiliar place. They will usually have personal experience of a region and help to educate holidaymakers in the quirks of a particular place to ensure a hassle free holiday.

They are a go-to source for local information and can often recommend a few lovely places to visit during your free time too. 

8. We won't get to interact with locals

Some tours go out of their way to faciliate interaction by introducing you to local business owners and local artisans and historians, showing you places in a way you could never do yourself. 

9. I will be told what and where to eat

Most tour packages include specific meals that come with specific conditions, but of course you don't have to eat what or where you are told. Some companies offer you the chance to choose from a selection of restaurants and à la carte menus, complemented with wine (and will even pick up the bill).

Often, these selections will have been made specifically for their authenticity and are a great chance to get an idea of the local culinary delights. 

10. It’s not a great option for those travelling on their own

Coach trips, on the contrary, are perfect for those travelling alone. You will never be on your own unless you feel the need. There will always be someone around to share your discoveries with. What's not to like?

If you've got wanderlust, why not read our tips on cruises for over 50s? Additionally, if you'd like a change of scenery from hotels, Airbnb might be more your speed.

Other things you might like:

A beginner's guide to Airbnb

Travelling to Paris with a grandchild

Images: Shutterstock