We have a tour on hold with Tauck. Does anyone have any advice or comments? I would really appreciate anything you have to say. We are going to Italy with 3 children in July (I know, I know...it's hot)
Thanks

Hi!

The only thing I can tell you is that Tauck tours is a very nice outfit. This is not from a personal experience, but merely from some comments by others.

Another thing is (so I suppose the above is not the only comment), your biggest challenge might not be the July weather, but the fact that an organized tour has its limitations, no matter how upscale. In other words, an organized tour caters to many different tastes and people, which might not be your taste or your people.

So, since you still have time until July, and since there are many people on this board who really know their way around Italy, why not give it a shot at planning your own adventure as opposed to one envisioned by Tauck?

From personal experience, on the eve of my booking a Perillo Tour of Italy for my husband and myself, Stu Dudley of this board took us under his very well traveled wings and was kind enough to assist us with planning a marvelous trip to Italy. So, ask Stu or ask me at [email protected] for our respective trip itineraries/reports, if you would like to give it a try.

Anna Roz

I have no personal experience, but my Mom has been very impressed with Tauck's quality.

Have gone on two tours w/ Tauck (including Italy in '02).

Planning on using them again.

We've been on three Tauck tours (and are signed up for two more this year) and have had really excellent experiences - including Classic Italy a couple of years ago. You don't mention how old the kids are - if they are too young, it might not be a great experience for them - or you. But on our trip, a family had two teen-age sons who were wonderful and had a good time.

I think the age of the kids is key. first of all - what is Tauk's minimum age - differs by tour company.

Second are your kids old enough to enjoy a very structured environment - with lots of lingering meals - and very little time for play. If they're older teens - they could have a great time - but for younger kids I would never reco a tour - just too demanding in times of their time and attention. No fun for them, for you - or for your fellow tour group members if the kids overtired or bored - making them grumpy or sulky - or worse loud - all the time.

I agree that the age of the kids is important. My parents have gone on several Tauck tours (including Italy) and have loved them. They are in their 70's and from the Tauck tours I've seen when traveling 60's/70's seems an average age.Another tour company that might work better is Europe Through the Backdoor. Not luxurious like Tauck, but much more kid-friendly (10 is their minimum age I think) and less structure every day. As far as hot goes, you may get lucky!