Write a guided essay: Independent Traveling vs. Package Holidays

Trektours have asked travelers from around the world, about their vacation preferences. Here are some of their answers in outline form:

Use these answers to write an essay in which you contrast independent traveling and package tourism. Comment on the advantages of both forms and illustrate your own preferences.

Some tourists said they went on package tours because…

* very convenient

* no worries about accommodation, meals…

* no language difficulties because of tour guides

* inclusive prices --> costs are clear before you start your trip

* tour operator provides help when needed

* opportunity to make friends from the group

* children are well taken care of

* most important sights and attractions are covered

* it’s cheaper

Others said they didn’t like package tours because…

* tourists are crammed into crowded buses

* overpriced and boring tours

* no chance to meet locals

* being stuck with rude tourists

* no „real“ local cuisine

A third group of independent travelers said they liked independent traveling because…

* freedom of choice (where they go when and with who)

* full independence

* easier to meet locals

* more likely to experience „real“ local culture

* relatively flexible

* it’s cheaper

* it’s more adventurous

A number of tourists gave the following answers:

* needs to organize everything (transport, accommodation, food, insurance, visa…)

* language difficulties can arise when one does not speak the language

* it could be more dangerous

* hard to make contact with other people

* you don’t have to go on overcrowded boring tours

Reading suggestion:

a woman's travel expeience in Egypt