Questions to ask a student tour company?
 

I have posted in recent weeks about which student tour companies fodorites recommended. One of those that came recommended, if a little pricier, was ACIS. I contacted them for a catalog and got an email today that they will be in my local area in 2 weeks and were going to hold a meeting for potential tour organizers/teachers in my area. I am currently planning to attend that meeting. I have taught for a long time (moving toward multiple decades here) but have never taken students more than a couple of hours away from school. Before I leap into a transcontinental commitment, I want all contingencies covered in the provided information and I'm not sure what I should be asking.

Can someone help by providing the questions I ought to be asking (beyond the obvious of cost, typical itineraries, chaperone ratios required, reputation of company, conditions under which the tour company would require students be sent home from a tour, etc.)? Even though I have thought through some of the logistics of this concept, obviously I haven't thought of all of them. I'm seeking experienced advice. Thanks!

Insurance matters. Not only health insurance, but also against liability.

If a non-English speaking country is involved:
Language skills
Know-how re. how to handle potential health or legal issues
This implies that a company rep will actually travel with you/ the group.

Get specifics on lodging. Not only type and amenities but also location (sometimes the put you an hour outside the city).

Also - assuming they retain the right to substitute lodgings (and they will) how often does this happen in the cities you will be going to - and why - and if at certain times of year.

Also - when they have had to substitute - where did the students end up (both location and name of lodging).

Also - I would ask to be given names and contact info for teachers who did groups with them last year to the same places you intend to visit.

I just hope that you get better experts than these:

http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=2

Oops. Wrong link. Here is the right one:

http://www.fodors.com/forums/pgMessa...=5&start=0