Contrary to popular belief, organised tours are not only frequented by old women and overweight American tourists - in fact, a youth hostel or camping tour is the ideal way for young travellers to meet like-minded explorers, save money and see the best the world has to offer without the hassle. It is also a great way to jump-start your gap-year experience.
"I always tell young travellers that an organised tour is like a buffet - a great way to sample a variety of foods and tempt your taste buds. Once you discover which destinations tickle your fancy you can always return at your leisure and explore further, says Liezl Gericke, managing director of student travel specialists STA Travel.
Many youth tours cater for travellers aged between 18 and 39. Liezl says these travellers are all up for a great travel experience and roughly half of them on these tours travel on their own - all keen to make friends and socialise.
The benefits of a going on a tour include: fellow like-minded travellers - you're all the same age (18 to 30-something), have the same mind-set and you instantly get a new circle of friends to share experiences. No hassles. You can enjoy the fun parts of travelling while tour operators take care of the boring bits. No overbooked trains, unavailable hostels or language problems.
Easy budget. All accommodation, travel, food, guided tours and excursions are clearly displayed on the itinerary pages. This makes it easy for you to budget for your own additional spending.
Free time. Each individual traveller has different interests and ideas on how to spend their own time, so there will be free time in which you can do your own thing.
Youth travellers should note that Topdeck trips booked before December 31 will receive a 7.5 percent early bird discount.
In addition, if you book and pay in full for a trip six months in advance, and take out the Topdeck Peace of Mind cover for only R590, you will receive a full refund should you have to cancel your trip prior to leaving South Africa.
- For details, call 0861 781 781 or see www.topdeck.travel, or www.statravel.co.za.