Trafalgar Tours is better suited for older travelers seeking a more inclusive and comfortable travel experience with higher-quality accommodations and comprehensive support. EF Ultimate Break is a better fit for younger travelers looking for budget-friendly, fast-paced adventures with a focus on flexibility and social interaction.
| Attribute | Trafalgar Tours | EF Ultimate Break |
|---|---|---|
| Average tour group size | Europe: 40-45 guests (max 53), USA & Canada: max 52, Australia & New Zealand: max 50, Asia (excluding Sri Lanka): max 32, Sri Lanka: max 48, Africa: max 36, Latin America: 40-45, Small Group Active Tours: max 17 | Up to 44 travelers, some tours around 20-25 people |
| Accommodation quality (star rating or equivalent) | Mix of independent properties and trusted partners like Marriott, Hilton, and W Hotels. Hotels selected for quality, service, and comfort. Some are "Stays with Stories" | Essential: Shared-rooming accommodations like hostels. Plus: 3- to 4-star hotels |
| Inclusions (meals, activities, entrance fees) | Accommodations, transportation, some meals (breakfast daily and some evening meals), sightseeing and activities, porterage and restaurant gratuities, hotel tips, charges, and local taxes, "Be My Guest" experiences, "MAKE TRAVEL MATTER experiences | Flights (optional), Accommodation, Some meals (often almost all breakfasts), Activities and guided tours, Ground transportation, Subway tickets in larger cities |
| Tour pace (relaxed, moderate, fast-paced) | Balance of planned activities and free time | Fairly fast pace |
| Price per day (excluding flights) | Prices vary depending on the tour and destination. Check the Trafalgar website or with a travel agent for specific pricing. | Depends on the tour type and length. Booking during sales or using promotional codes can significantly reduce the price. |
| Destination coverage (number of countries/regions) | Nearly 300 itineraries in 72 countries across six continents. Popular destinations include Europe, USA & Canada, Australia & New Zealand, Asia, and South America. | Over 65 destinations across Europe, Asia, Africa, and North and South America |
| Tour guide expertise and language proficiency | Experienced and trained Travel Directors, many with at least five years of experience. They provide an insider's perspective. Travel Directors, drivers, and local guides speak English, and many speak other languages. | Tour directors coordinate the trip, offer local insights, and aim to ensure a good experience. They often live in the country you're visiting and are culturally aware. |
| Transportation type (bus, train, flights) | Luxury coaches, trains, ferries. Flights can be arranged but are not included in the base price. | Buses, trains, and flights |
| Age range suitability | Open to guests of all ages. Children must be between 5-17 years old to book a child on a tour. The majority of guests are 50 and up. Trafalgar also offers family tours. | 18-35 |
| Flexibility of itinerary (optional excursions) | Itineraries include free time for personal exploration. Optional Experiences are available for an additional fee. Guests can exclude themselves from included experiences. | Planned activities, free time, and optional excursions. You don't have to participate in every activity. |
| Sustainability practices | Five-year "How We Tread Right" strategy. Initiatives include reducing carbon emissions, sourcing local and organic products, reducing food waste, and eliminating single-use plastics. Includes "MAKE TRAVEL MATTER experiences. | Aim to reduce their carbon footprint, support local communities, promote animal welfare, and are working with WeForest to plant native trees in Tanzania. |
| Customer support availability and responsiveness | Support at every step with a Travel Director and Driver team. Access to "MyTrafalgar" website portal. | 24/7 support. Available by phone from inside the U.S. or overseas. |