Insider’s Comparison Guide:

Pick the Best Travel Experience for Your Group

PROS

• Great way to focus on spending quality time together—since you’re all in one place for the whole getaway!
   

• All-inclusive nature makes your stay effortless; no need to figure out logistics, dining, etc. for your group
   

• Ability to rent out event space or host private dinners at the resort
   

• Often, you can get a free room if your group meets the group minimum
   

• Large groups may get special perks and upgrades—like a complimentary champagne reception, for example
   

• Excellent option for destination weddings—resorts have lots of appealing wedding packages to chose from

CONS

• Not all all-inclusive resorts are family friendly—many are “adults only,” so chose carefully if you’re a family group
   

• Some resorts are spread out wide; for a more intimate group experience, ensure you get rooms in the same area of the resort
   

• A long resort stay could feel monotonous for groups that prefer more in-depth exploration

PROS

• Trip is built from the ground up, according to your group’s specifications, interests, and needs
   

• Complete customization means you can enjoy more off-the-beaten-tourist-path adventures
   

• Can be either self-guided or escorted by a travel expert, so you don’t have to worry about any of the logistics
   

• Your group can travel at your own pace
   

• Lots of opportunities for private, after-hours, and behind-the-scenes tours and activities
   

• Can be tailored to your group’s budget and desired vacation length (though customized experiences don’t tend to be cheap!)

CONS

• If self-guided, you would have to handle the logistics and transportation on your own (though your travel pro can arrange private transportation for your group)
   

• Not a lot of opportunities to rent space for workshops/seminars

PROS

• Prioritizes exploration and cross-cultural learning—you’ll be in the company of expert guides
   

• Land tours are sometimes themed to interests (like photography or food and wine), making them great choices for special interest clubs
   

• Select tours have a smaller, more intimate feel—some tours often range from just 15-25 travelers, while larger tours more often range from 30-40
   

• Provides a sense of safety and security as you explore together
   

• You get a more involved itinerary, but you don’t have to worry about transportation/logistics—the tour company or safari outfitter takes care of it all
   

• Get the chance to make new like-minded friends, since not everyone on your tour will be a part of your group

CONS

• Not a great option for large (30+) groups
   

• Limited opportunities to host group-only events like special workshops or private dinners—most experiences will be with the entire tour group
   

• Not a good option for groups just looking to relax and reconnect, since you’ll often be on the go!
   

• Some tours may not be appropriate for younger children or group members with mobility issues
   

• Itinerary cannot be customized since your group is joining pre-existing tour

PROS

• Something to interest everyone in your group, from varied on-board entertainment to shore excursions
   

• Many cruises are great option for family groups (especially multigenerational family groups)—connected suites and kids’ clubs make them family-friendly
   

• Ability to rent out seminar space or host private dinners on board
   

• Often, you can get a free cabin if your group meets the group minimum
   

• Great option for group members with limited mobility; these members can relax onboard during excursions or opt for an “easy” excursion

CONS

• Limited opportunities to theme an ocean cruise around special interests (though this depends on the specific cruise!)
   

• Huge ocean liners don’t promote intimacy—your group won’t feel like you “have the whole place to yourselves”
   

• Many cruises aren’t the best choice for in-depth exploration; they tend to dock in a single port for just part of a day, so you’re in destinations for a shorter period of time (though expedition and small ship cruises are different!)

PROS

• Small, intimate feel—river cruises often have fewer than 100 passengers, so your group won’t get lost in the shuffle
   

• Can arrange special excursions at port stops, themed to your group’s interests
   

• Often, you can get a free cabin if your group meets the group minimum
   

• If your group is large enough, you can even charter the whole river cruise ship!
   

• Barge cruises can be chartered with as few as 8-12 travelers (it’s like renting a floating villa)
   

• More focused on exploration; ships dock in the heart of destinations + spend longer in each country

CONS

• Not as entertainment-focused as traditional ocean cruises—no shows, casinos, shopping on board
   

• More limited dining options
   

• Passengers tend to be more mature; not all river cruises are good for family groups with children or those looking for a “party” atmosphere

PROS

• Gives your group plenty of space to sprawl out—you won’t feel like you’re “on top of each other” 
   

• Often comes with luxurious extras, like pools, concierge/butler service, private chefs, etc.
   

• Provides far more privacy than resort/cruise/hotel stays—it’s just your group at the property
   

• Great option for groups who enjoy exploring at a slower pace—easy to embark on day trips, while returning to the same “home” each night 
   

• Opportunity to host private events At the villa, including cooking classes, wine tastings, private catered dinners, etc. 

CONS

• Not a great option for large (20+) groups
   

• Villas are often outside (not in) city/cultural centers—providing a more peaceful stay, but may not appeal to all travelers
   

• Some villas have minimum stay requirements or can only be rented from Saturday to Saturday, making timing for your group a touch tricky