azzure

I just had a pop-up appear for a company called "Untours". They basically book housing and transportation packages for various European and South American destinations. Their website says that with its profits the company "provides low interest loans here and abroad. Loans are issued to individuals and organizations in order to create jobs among disenfranchised populations, build low-income housing, and support Fair Trade Certified products all through the most environmentally friendly means possible."

It sounds good. Anybody have any experience with them?

Russ

Never done them, but they sure have the right ideas about traveling low to the ground and getting in touch with the culture. They look a bit pricey. You can book (and I have done so) the same accommodations they use for much, much less % on your own. I'd prefer to donate to charity in my own way.

bobthenavigator

I have admired their Europe excursions for years---a good balance between tours and independent travel. A good company.

CarolJean

I agree with Bob! CJ

janisj

They are an old and well known company. One thing though - they are fairly expensive, if that matters.

Basically what you get is a cottage/flat/villa for 2 weeks, and transport for the area (a rental car, or transport passes in major cities) but it is priced per person. Usually a holiday apartment and rental car will cost less than their pp pricing.

Grassshopper

I used them last year for Tuscany. I booked my own air but used them for the accommodation and car. They meet you at the airport (if you like) and take you to get your car and then escort you to your accommodation. We knew our way around so just met them at the vineyard where we stayed. The in-country expert provided us with a book full of information and also was available if we needed anything. They had a morning orientation session, tour of a castle/church and lunch. It was helpful and fun.

I highly recommend them. In my case, I just didn't have time to investigate and research places to stay and it really fit the bill for me. I know other experienced travelers who have used them as well and were very happy.

Amy

I love Untours! I've taken four trips with them; two were with fairly large groups (five to Reuti, Hasliberg region, Switzerland, six to Pfarrwerfen, Austria) and two solo.

It's a lovely company, and the services provided are indeed helpful, as Grassshopper explained. I usually do travel on my own, but, particularly with a group (cost pp is much less), I found the Untours organization to be very helpful and provide a nice structure, all while encouraging a certain style of travel.