There’s no “right” way to travel. I’ve done it  alone, or with familiar travel companions, seeking out the sites spontaneously or exploring with a really good guide book or site. And I’ve also traveled with a guide  –  where I’ve purchased a package deal and have the luxury of a set itinerary and a warm and gracious host. The best case scenarios involve trips where I can do a bit of both. Guided tours offer an excellent way to experience a new place like a local, especially when you’re tight on time and usually with the convenience of having everything including transit pre-planned for you.

In this week’s deals and destinations post we are looking at some “out-of-the-box” travel experiences with tour operators. Consider one of these as you start planning your next travel adventure. You might just try something you never thought you’d try, and make a lasting new friend while you’re at it.

Top Picks for Guided Tours

Guided Tours on Globetrotting Mama

G Adventures: London to the Mediterranean on a Shoestring

G Adventures offers a lot of exciting tour packages. Browse their site to find your favourite. This one sounds dreamy: Experience 23 days of travel from London to Madrid. Bonus: it is on sale now!  You’ll get access to accommodations, transportation and meals plus a “Chief Experience Officer” to guide you.

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Butterfield & Robinson: Quebec Biking

This tour company is known for providing active vacations, and new ways to experience the heart of a country. Now you can cycle your way to experiencing the food, wine and culture of Quebec, starting in Montreal and heading to Quebec City. You’ll enjoy six days and five nights with this tour.

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Kensington Tours: Kenya Explorer

If you have dreamed of an African safari you’ll love this, or any package from Kensington Tours. This is a more economically priced trip, that will appeal to many families. You’ll experience the top sites in Kenya, including wildlife sightings in Masai Mara on a 7-day tour adventure.

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Trafalgar: Costa Rica Eco Adventure

Step into the rainforest and catch glimpses of the exotic wildlife in this tour of Costa Rica. In addition to seeking out the best sites, including Tortuguero National Park, you’ll also get insider moments like visiting with master chocolatiers. This tour is 8 days long.

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Guided tours are a great way to save money, and have someone else handling the stress of planning your trip each step of the way. You can also experience tours and destinations you might not otherwise get to, with an insider’s perspective. Have we enticed you to book a guided tour trip?