My daughter is going on her first trip to Europe as a graduation present (college). We thought Contiki would be a good for group travel, but she heard that Stray allowed more flexibility and was a lot more economical. I don't know anyone who knows anything about Stray, and other than their website, there isn't much info on the Internet. Does anyone know anything about the company?

While I haven't used Stray myself, the company is recommended by many writers of travel guidebooks. Everything I've read is positive.

Didn't do it myself, but met lots of backpackers who were on it (Australians mostly). They seemed to love the flexibility. It was also nice to have the safety cushion of meeting a guide at a hostel and traveling to the next location with them, thereby ensuring guaranteed accommodation. I had not heard any complaints from any of the people I met using them (I was curious as to what Stray was since I heard it so often). But again, I have no direct experience with them.

Thanks for the responses. I think she's going to go with Stray. I spoke to a travel agent who was familiar with it, and it seems like the best of both worlds for a 23 year-old. It is very reasonably priced, allows flexibility but is still structured in that there are guides available if you want them. I'll post the results after she returns from her 41- day trip!

Just wanted to say that I wish someone would send me to Europe for 41 days! Why wasn't I smart enough to study abroad during college????