Group tours are a great way to explore new destinations and meet new people and making friends on a group tour can be a fun and rewarding experience! – But it’s important to be mindful of the other guests on the tour. Here are a few do’s and don’ts to keep in mind to ensure that you have a positive and respectful interaction with your fellow travellers!

DO introduce yourself

Introducing yourself to others in the group and initiating a conversation is a great way to break the ice and start building connections with your fellow travelers. Ask about their travel experiences and share your own stories. Who knows, you might even make some new friends along the way!

DON’T Exclude others

Don’t form exclusive groups or cliques that exclude other travelers. Everyone on the tour deserves to feel included and welcome so be inclusive and try to involve everyone in activities and conversations.

DO be open-minded

Be open to meeting new people and learning about their backgrounds and cultures. Keep an open mind and be willing to step outside your comfort zone.

DON’T Ignore personal boundaries

Be mindful of other people’s personal space and boundaries. Don’t invade their personal space or make them feel uncomfortable. Respect others’ privacy and avoid prying into their personal lives.

DO participate in group activities

Participating in group activities like tours, meals, and sightseeing can help you bond with others in the group. You can also suggest activities that you are interested in and invite others to join you. Attending group social events, such as happy hours or dinners is really great at getting to know other travellers outside of the tour activities.

DON’T be a know-it-all

Nobody likes a know-it-all! It’s important to remember that group tours are meant to be enjoyable and informative experiences for everyone involved. While it’s great to be knowledgeable about the places you’re visiting, it’s equally important to be respectful of other people’s perspectives and contributions. One way to avoid dominating the tour is to actively listen to what others have to say and engage with them in a collaborative manner. Encourage other people to share their thoughts and experiences, and be open to learning from them.

DO be approachable

Smile, make eye contact, and be approachable. Make yourself available and willing to talk to others. Share snacks, drinks, or other small items with others in the group. This can be a great icebreaker and can help you connect with others.

DON’T complain excessively

It’s understandable to have concerns or complaints while traveling, but it’s important to keep in mind that excessive complaining can have a negative impact on the group dynamic and the overall experience. Remember that travel can sometimes involve unexpected challenges or setbacks, and try to keep things in perspective.

DO use social media

Using social media platforms like Facebook or Instagram to connect with others in the group before the trip is a great way to break the ice and make it easier to start a conversation in person. If you see a post that features an upcoming trip of yours, comment on it! We love seeing guests interact with each other in the comment section.

DON’T be late

Don’t be late for group activities as it can disrupt the tour schedule and cause inconvenience to others. Being punctual is an important aspect of being a considerate and respectful traveler, especially when you’re part of a group tour. Arriving on time helps ensure that the group activities run smoothly and everyone has a positive and enjoyable experience.

DO be respectful

Be respectful of others in the group and their boundaries. Don’t push others to do things they’re not comfortable with or share personal information they’re not willing to disclose. Avoid making rude or disrespectful comments, jokes, or gestures and be mindful of your language and actions.

DON’T be rude to the tour guide

And lastly – Don’t be rude to the tour guide or other guests. Be patient and understanding if there are delays or unexpected changes to the itinerary. Our tour guides work incredibly hard to ensure that you have a memorable and enjoyable experience. Being respectful towards them is a simple way to show your appreciation for their efforts and make their job a little easier.

Remember that making friends on a group tour takes effort and may require you to step outside your comfort zone. But with the right attitude and approach, you can create meaningful connections with others and have an unforgettable travel experience!

Written by Lucy Kaufmann