EF Ultimate Break is a good option for young adults seeking affordable, social group travel experiences with included activities and convenient logistics. Scott Dunn is better suited for travelers who prioritize luxury, personalized itineraries, and seamless service with a strong emphasis on sustainability, and are willing to pay a premium for it.
| Attribute | EF Ultimate Break | Scott Dunn |
|---|---|---|
| Target Audience | 18-35 years old (majority 18-20), welcoming solo travelers | Families, couples, and individuals. Known for family-oriented trips, honeymoons, and multi-generational travel. |
| Tour Style | Group tours, social | Tailor-made luxury holidays, bespoke experiences, customized itineraries, private access |
| Destinations Covered | Europe, Asia, Central and South America, over 65 destinations | Worldwide, including Africa, Asia, Europe, South America, USA & Canada, Polar regions |
| Average Tour Group Size | Up to 44 travelers (some reviews mention groups as large as 30) | Not specified, focuses on customized, private tours |
| Accommodation Quality | Mix of hotels and hostels. Essential trips: minimum 3-6 people sharing a room. Plus trips: 3- to 4-star hotels, typically with one roommate. | Luxury. Properties are off the beaten track and vetted for distinctiveness and value. |
| Inclusions | Flights (optional), accommodations, full-time Tour Director, sightseeing and walking tours, entrance to select attractions, transportation between cities, 24/7 emergency support, Welcome Dinner, some meals (often breakfast) | Not explicitly detailed, but includes curated accommodations, experiences, and expert guides. |
| Exclusions | Optional excursions, beverages, lunches, and dinners (except where specified in the itinerary), travel protection, customary gratuities | Not specified |
| Price Range | Depends on the trip type and length. Payment plans available. | Considered a very expensive, luxury tour operator. |
| Booking Flexibility | Travel Protection allows one free rebooking if requested 100+ days before departure. Rebooking fees apply without Travel Protection. Can extend your trip for a fee. | Offers flexibility for changing plans. |
| Customer Support Availability | 24/7 emergency support | Global offices in the UK, US, and Singapore offer 24/7 service. Emergency assistance is available 24 hours a day. |
| Sustainability Practices | Responsible Travel initiative in partnership with the Tourism Authority of Thailand | Committed to minimizing environmental impact and offsetting carbon emissions. Partnerships with organizations like Tree Sisters and Conservation Collective. Supports community-based projects. Has a dedicated Sustainability & Nature Positive Tourism Lead and a Sustainability Committee. |
| Guides Expertise & Local Knowledge | Local tour directors | Travel specialists have first-hand knowledge of destinations. They spend at least one month per year in their area of expertise. |