There are many positive qualities to exploring the world alongside others on small group travel. You’ll discover many of these things on Odysseys by Goway, our exclusive line of unforgettable small group journeys, guided by Goway. But to me, one element stands above all the rest: the opportunity to bond with fellow globetrotters.
I’ve made friends for life on my past vacations. I’m still in contact with people I met on travels over 30 years ago, regularly checking in on how our journeys have gone since we explored the world together. When you travel alongside others, you make connections that are as powerful as the memories you cherish for the rest of your life. At the very least, you learn a bit about other parts of the world that you don’t come from. At its most profound, you can also experience destinations through the eyes of another, which broadens your own deep understanding of the world and its treasures.
While I do enjoy solo travel, I much prefer to share my travel experiences with others. I love to review the day’s events with tour mates and join in the excitement of new experiences. I also find that I’m more open to new experiences when travelling with others. Scared about riding in a hot air balloon over the Serengeti? Go with a group and you’ll find the encouragement you need to embark on this magical journey.
There is something instantly binding when your group comes together in the hotel lobby on that first morning and you set off for the day to all see new wonders for the first time. This is especially true for first-time travellers in popular parts of the world, such as Europe, but also in far-flung destinations that are very different from home back in North America. Whether you’re exploring the historic sites of Japan or India, navigating souks in the Middle East, participating in a cooking class in Ghana, or simply enjoying a local meal together on the coast of New Zealand, your experiences can lead to lasting friendships that bring provide happiness long after you have returned home. The connections we make are often as important as the place we explore and doubly rich for having explored together.
Carolyn Weppler has tracked gorillas in Rwanda, been proposed to in Paris (she accepted, naturally!), and travelled to 70 countries, counting Uzbekistan, Lebanon, Russia, Sri Lanka and even Afghanistan among her travel memories. Originally from Hong Kong, Carolyn lived in the UK before settling in Canada. A self-professed foodie traveller, her favourite destinations are Nepal, Peru, Uganda, and anywhere else where she can roam local markets and experience new flavours.