There is a flag pictured here for each country represented on this tour. As you can see, Contiki Participants come from all over the world!
Let me start by saying that this section is based solely on my opinions. If you disagree with my views send me an e-mail and we can discuss things further.
What can I say, if you are young, energetic and looking to see Europe with the assistance of a tour company...Contiki is the only way to go! I was torn between doing the trip on my own, and taking an organized tour. Obviously both have their advantages and disadvantages. Contiki is priceless if you have never been to Europe and/or are trying to see as much as you can in a short period of time with a group that is looking to do much the same. They are very organized, have GREAT staff to assit you and still give you enough flexibility to do your own thing! One of the best things for me was the ability to go solo, yet still be part of a group. Many of Contiki's travelers were in the same boat as I was - that is traveling without a companion - but by being part of a group you can benefit from companionship and group prices.
I will say though that some people will be frustrated in that the schedule tends to move quickly. If you choose to do a tour, consider the itinerary carefully! Many people don't realize that they will really only have 2 days in Paris or 1 night in Venice until they are there and it is time to leave that city. The one thing that you give up on a tour is full flexibility. The tour manager will attempt to give you as much flexibility as they can, but they are tied to the schedule.
I have heard much about the "Contiki Experience" and having experienced it, I think that it means different things to different people. In my opinion, this is a great way to meet people to travel with and share a remarkable experience with. The experience of other cultures while traveling can be even more interesting when combined with the experiences of fellow travelers from other cultures as well. I met several interesting people on this trip, many of whom I still keep in touch with.
To me the whole Contiki Experience centered around broadening my horizons. The ability to experience other countries and cultures firsthand has helped me to better understand my own culture, as well as grow as a person.
THANKS, CONTIKI!
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© 1998-2000 Geoffrey S. Cable
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