rebecca

I'm seriously considering booking the Amazing Thailand trip with Smartours within the next day or so (going solo).<BR>I am going to do the 14 day with no extention thru Smartours but they said I could get a later flight back for an extra hundred dollars. That way I can travel by myself (a little nervous but I'm dying to do that) for a few more days.<BR>Now my concern is... Is everyone going to 50 plus? I'm 30-ish and never been on an escorted trip and I thikn I would be a bit depressed if there was NOONE to hit a club late night in Bangkok with, etc. If I had a travel companion I would never go escorted because I like a bit of adventure. Since none of my friends have that much vaca or the inclination I feel a little stuck...<BR>Any advise?? Anyone that has experience with this tour have any thought on ages, etc?<BR>

Sandy

Hi Rebecca,<BR><BR>I went on a ST to Vietnam/Cambodia in July 00, there were 33 on the tour. We had a few 40s, 50s, but most were 60+. We had one young couple w/8-yr-old son. These were all seasoned travelers, had been almost everywhere, and were very interesting. On this trip, there was not much to do at night, it was hot, we were tired, and going out was not a priority on anyone's list.<BR><BR>I went on another ST to India/Nepal in Nov 00, there were 23 in group and ages ranged from one late 30s (single nurse), to me (50s), and the rest 60+. Again, no places to go at night.<BR><BR>I just returned from a China Focus tour to China, 33 in group . . . about 8-9 kids from 10-21, 1 cute single guy 28, one fun married guy (whose wife was visiting family in Ireland), the rest from 40-78.<BR><BR>From going on 3 tours now (does this make me an expert?), here's my thoughts on these "inexpensive" tours . . . tours in the summer are mainly teachers; tours Sept-May are usually retired people. There's no way to accurately predict what the ages of the people will be or how much/little they will want to party no matter what their age. I know some 60-yr-olds who are more fun and party-harder than any 20-yr-olds you can find.<BR><BR>If you like the destination (and Thailand is an awesome and fun destination, I've been twice), then go and I bet you'll be surprised at your group. And, if not, it's pretty easy (and safe) to go out on your own.<BR><BR>Hope this helps just a little,<BR>Sandy

rebecca

Thank you very much for your response. It was helpful!<BR>I am a bit curious about some of the tours. The tours that are included- can I opt out? I may be interested in rafting instead of shopping. Is it possible? Thanks- Rebecca

Sandy

Of course . . . you just need to let your guide know when you will not be joining in. We opt out and go off on our own a lot. They won't hold you captive.<BR><BR>We especially go our own way at night, skip the evening meal/entertainment and go see what the locals are up to.<BR><BR>In fact, when we do take tours, we always go with the thought that we will just use it for hotels and transportation. But, we usually enjoy the people and guides so much that we join in most of the activities.<BR><BR>Sandy

rebecca

Thanks so much for the reply.<BR>That makes me feel a bit better!<BR>I think I'm booking it! : )<BR>Thanks for your help.<BR><BR>

susanh

Hi, Rebecca My husband and I went on that Smartours trip to Thailand the March before last. It was wonderful! You will love it. On our tour there seemed to be an equal mix of ages. Some in the 20's, some 30's, some 40's, etc, all the way to 70's. We are in our 40's. Many of our group did get together at night and hit clubs. We prefered strolling around in Bangkok and Chaing Mai in the evening (we are not the "club-hopping" type). However, I am sure you will find someone to go out in the evening with if you are not to exhausted from touring (there was alot to see and do in the daytime). Have a good time!