I’m looking for parent input on EF Tours. I have read a few of the posts from 2014 and 2011, but things are a bit different now than they were a couple of years ago with respect to traveling abroad. D is a Jr. in HS this year and has the opportunity to go to Europe for 11 days. I’m in general agreement that the trips are overpriced. I’m actually not as concerned about the money as I am about the safety and organization of the trip. EF Tours has gotten some bad reviews. Has anyone had a recent experience with EF Tours that they can share?
My d went to Costa Rica on an EF tour in 2014. It was a great experience. I don’t know about Europe though. As for safety and organization, their trip was well planned and organized. The kids were mainly supervised by the two teacher chaperones from our school. These teachers had been on the trip before and knew some of their guides from those previous trips. This year I am sending my son, same trip and same teacher leaders with the addition of one new teacher. He has had all three teachers in school, and loves them all. I think having very involved, hands on teachers from our school made the difference for us.
I have a cousin who has worked as a tour director for EF tours in Eurpoe for the last few years. As tour director, he is the main organizer for the group (hotels, meals, etc.), not the tour guide. My cousin would say that the dedication and committment of the chaperones to their role has a lot to do with the success of the tour.
So in addition to the reviews you read, I would suggest you also consider who will be chaperoning your child. Are they in it for a trip for themselves or to make sure the kids have a great experience?