Explore five surprising examples of why you need to try group travel on your next trip.

By Tyler Anneliese Moselle

The last thing people envision during trip planning is joining a group of strangers.

Lounging in one-of-a-kind accommodations, tracking flight prices, scrolling through amazing cultural sights, never-before eaten foods, and climbing trails through unknown terrain… with people you’ve never met?

But here’s the scoop on what you’ve been missing out on group travel:

1. Join the pack! You’ll make new friends and lifelong connections.

When you mix an international adventure with a curious group of people from all different backgrounds, you encounter unparalleled, valuable moments.

Whether it’s a once-in-a-lifetime moment on a Shaman walk to Cusco temples or rolling cigars together in Cuba could spell lifelong bonds

“One thing that I've learned from traveling to different places is that music unites us all. In difficult times or situations, music can bring people together and make them feel better.” -@ktmacaroni on our January trip to Cuba

2. Expand your perspective and skills.

Some travelers—like this writer and traveler Jen Han, love to plan their own adventures.

Han shares — “Usually I like to plan my own travel, but for Cuba, we decided that that going with an experienced guide was the best option. Andrew and his team are fantastic—so fun and knowledgeable. We had the most incredible trip!”

We couldn’t have said it better ourselves.

From our well-traveled team to our international tour guides, you’ll experience a curated trip from a locals’ perspective. Plus you can have your own personal AMA: Ask Andrew Anything!

Through our international community of farmers, chefs, and artisans, you can take a local’s deeper dive into global food, beverages, and crafts.

Once you’re Coast to Costa family, you’ll never come back home the same!

3. Get that photo.

You don’t have to be shy when you want that travel photo of your dreams.

From llama cameos on Machu Picchu to enjoying classic cocktails against beautiful architectural backdrops in Havana: never fear.

You can stay present in the moment without regretting not capturing that perfect moment.

4. Enjoy the journey you want for a better price.

It’s difficult to put a price on world travel, but more accessible travel makes unfeasible vacations possible.

As Coast to Costa Founder, Andrew once put it, “People are able to experience a place in a way that is totally non-touristy, guided but also with free time to explore on their own. Plus, you meet great people along the way to share the experience with.

“One couple got engaged, best friends have been made, and we have follow up parties and get-togethers because everyone REALLY wants to hang out after the trips! It's culture within culture!”

He added, “Even if people don't come with us, our whole mission is to get more people traveling! Book a cheap flight, then save up the money. Book now and figure out the plans and budget later.”

Skip saving for the entire cost of an international trip. With group travel, your costs are divided so you can save that cash for handmade souvenirs, perfecting your Peruvian recipes at home, or your next trip!

5. Introvert and extrovert-friendly moments

There’s never a dull moment when traveling with a group, but, remember, you can always choose-your-own-adventure at your own pace.

As Antonella Pisani points out, there are plenty of great lifehacks if you’re introverted but want to try your hand at group travel. First, try to identify common interests or hobbies with the group.

Meet talented photographers, writers, and travelers who have a wealth of knowledge.

Nurture your inner creative and hone a new skill! Join us in Cuba in November during three photography walks led by Dan Tom: capture dusk on the Malecon, cityscapes, and architecture, and a nature excursion.

“While your first instinct might be to find a large group where you can become invisible,” Pisani writes, “I’ve had more fun with smaller groups that all share a common interest.”

Maybe arrive a day early, enjoy some occasional me-time with a good novel or noise-canceling headphones, find a new adventure buddy to wander off with, or even FaceTime or use WhatsApp to call a loved one when you need a break. This is your experience and we encourage you to make it your own!

Personally, as an only child and a professional writer, I certainly need my space. I never considered group travel before my Coast to Costa-led trek through the charming vineyard-packed Valle de Guadalupe in Baja Mexico.

When I look back, toasting our border crossing, sharing unveiled surprises, bonding over unreal bites and sips at dinner, and snapping one another’s photos together was the perfect introduction to an unknown world.

There was something magical about standing in line for our decadent seafood lunch in Ensenada as an ensemble. Taste buds on edge, quietly strategizing what to order, practicing our Spanish—that was the catalyst for the entire trip’s camaraderie and shared wonder.

Ready to add group travel to Cuba or Peru to your bucket list?

Join us on one of our next trips coming up on October 23-30 and Nov 16-23, 2017.