_From California to the Galápagos, Bernie has customized tours to visit locations all over the globe—and picked up some helpful tips along the way. He offers his expert insight and takes us through his experience working with our global network of teams to build his Tailor-made Tours.
1. Do your research
Start with where you’d like to go, your potential group size, and the budget you’d like to work around. Don’t know where to begin? Call your Tour Consultant or use our collection of over 175 tours to inspire your wanderlust.
“Run your ideas by potential group members. You’ll receive input, especially from those who are particularly eager to go to a specific destination,” said Bernie.
2. Call your Tour Consultant
Whether you want to talk through potential travel plans or know exactly what you want to customize, your Tour Consultant is here to help. They’ll offer suggestions and help flesh out your ideas in order to create the most successful tour possible.
“Consult with Go Ahead Tours since there are plenty of staff members who’ve traveled to these destinations,” said Bernie. “Plus, your Tour Consultant can suggest activities that are geared toward your group’s interests.”
3. Make any tweaks
Once you decide on an itinerary, you’ll receive a sketch of the trip so you can make any necessary adjustments. From start to finish, you’ll always be in the loop about the status of your tour.
“Go Ahead Tours helped me figure out the overnight structure so that we could make the most out of every city,” said Bernie.
4. Build the tour
Next, your dream itinerary is sent off to our Operations Team. With your budget in mind, we work to accommodate your ideas and offer suggestions to help the tour run smoothly.
“I’m always open to suggestions,” said Bernie. “Doing so helps to ensure that your tour logistically makes sense and your group will have the best experience.”
5. Recruit your group
After our Operations Team approves your tour, we’ll create personalized recruiting materials including a customized day-by-day itinerary, posters, flyers, business cards, and even a website where your prospective group members can sign up for the trip.
“The day-by-day itineraries are especially helpful when I’m recruiting for tour because they include detailed descriptions and are customized for my trip,” said Bernie.
6. Travel on your trip
Enjoy exploring the world on tour with your group members and Tour Director. When you return, your Tour Consultant will reach out to talk about your experience and help you start planning your next adventure.
“My group was delighted to travel on a custom tour because they received an incredibly unique experience—and it even inspired repeat travel,” said Bernie.
Interested in creating a Tailor-made Tour? Learn more about the benefits and rewards if you travel with us on a customized tour!
