Janie - Look forward to reading how your tour works out. Perhaps start a new thread on the trip report would be a good idea.

Sandy

To get the most out of a tour company, it takes as much planning and research as doing the trip on your own. First you have to find the perfect itinerary. Then research all the hotel websites. Then check into company reviews on the internet.
You can pick a tour that includes most meals and many excursions, or one that doesn't. With a budget tour you have much more freedom to plan your own excursions using the internet and stopping for meals at some nice little restaurant you've found. Either way the final bill will come out about the same.
If the itinerary is perfect there is something to be said about having all your transportation arranged for you, and being handed a hotel key. A great trip requires great research.

..as eloquently stated by others, you MUST do your homework. Wear your reading glasses to look at the fine print, learn how to translate tour speak, cross reference the hotels with trip advisor (and make sure you know where they are in relation to the city center..ie map them out). Be sure you know what is included and what is an add on. You may need charts and spread sheets. Also include a UK company, Insight in your list (I thnk most of the others have beeen listed). I think that a tour is not a bad first trip if you want to see many places.