A vacation to visit archaeological sites can be a great way to learn about the past. You can either go as an independent traveller; or select one of the many package tours that escort tourists to the great sites of the world. If you know the archaeology of a region or are an adventurous type, you might elect to go on your own. On the other hand, a planned itinerary tour by a reputable tour company might be just the ticket for safe, educational travel.
Itinerary Tour Varieties
A planned itinerary tour can be escorted, with provided lectures and tour guides; or package, with several stops where tourists are left to wander around on their own for a few hours. There are many companies that provide archaeology-oriented planned itinerary tours. How do you choose among them to find a tour package that’s right for you? Here are some questions to ask your tour operator before you go.
Accreditation and Experience
How long has the tour company been operating and how many archaeology tours has it conducted in the past? What kinds of education/background do the tour operator, tour guides and lecturers have? Who will be leading the site tours? Does the tour company belong to the Tour Operators’ Association of the country in which it originates or operates? Is the company aware of regulations concerning package tours and can they send you a copy?
Group Size
If you are being escorted to the sites, how large a group will be going? Visiting an archaeological site with a herd of people is qualitatively different than with a smaller group, particularly if there are to be lectures. A smaller group may mean a higher cost; but it may also mean a richer experience as well, with the opportunity for questions and the group providing some of their specialist knowledge.Extras
Are entrance fees, food and drink, tips and transportation are all included in the price? If not, ask the tour operator to provide estimates on what these extras will cost. Does the flight come with the package? Find out in advance if the plane is scheduled to leave or arrive in the middle of the night.Itinerary
How much time is spent on the sites versus travel time? You may find that the journey itself is delightful, traveling through the countryside on a train, in a motorbus or aboard a cruise ship. On the other hand, you may find the archaeological sites get short shrift if they are spread too far apart, or there are too many of them packed into a short period.Accommodations
What kind of hotel or restaurants have been arranged? While five-star hotels are sure to have great facilities, they may not be the best choice, if you want local color, history, and ambience.Previous Travelers
Finally, try to find people who have taken tours with the company before. The tour company should be able to provide testimonials and/or contact information from people who have travelled with them in the past. Ask your friends and acquaintances for their recommendations. And, use the web to its best ability. Many people post personal websites on their vacation experiences; and you could get an excellent preview of what a tour is like from these kinds of sites.
More Tips
For more tips, try the Travel Network at About. My thanks to James Martin, guide to Europe for Visitors at About, and Peter Sommer, owner of Peter Sommer Travels, for assistance with this article.
