If you are looking for an inexpensive way to travel, check out tour bus companies in your area. If you think bus tours are just for “old people,” think again. With my travel club, Rambling Fever Travel, I used to offer charter bus tours. I had folks on those trips from 18 to 80! It’s true that a lot of older folks do travel by this mode of transportation, but it’s not just for them. What do you consider “old” anyway?!
So many advantages….
Bus tours are great for so many people. Maybe your partner doesn’t like to travel or maybe you don’t have anyone to go with you. With group travel, you are never alone. You meet new people and friendships are formed quickly. It’s also great if you don’t like to drive, or don’t want to put the wear and tear on your vehicle. Convenience is key with this type of travel. You don’t have to worry about traffic, finding a place to park, ordering attraction/event tickets, making reservations, etc. Everything is done for you, including baggage handling. Board the motorcoach, then just sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride. You can choose to engage in conversations, take a nap, watch a movie, read, or whatever. Then, you are dropped off right at the door of your destination!
Convenient
Usually, any trip that is priced over $100 can be made in payments. A small deposit reserves your seat, and you make payments till it’s paid off (just like a cruise–which I will discuss later). Depending on how big the trip is, the balance must be paid off anywhere from two weeks to 30 days. Bus tour companies offer one day events, weekend trips, and 1-2 week trips or longer.
My mom and I on one of our many bus trips
Some even offer cruises; taking the bus to the cruise port–which is great for those who won’t fly.
Great value
Bus tour prices are very reasonable for everything you get in return. I’ve traveled many times on bus trips and have always had a great experience. Don’t worry about the itinerary being too strict. You will have plenty of time on your own to do what you want. It is customary to leave a tip for the driver at the end of the trip. The tour guide will usually gather tips from the guests before they exit the bus.
Shockey Tours–Louisville, KY
A favorite bus tour company in my area is Shockey Tours, http://www.shockeytours.com (502) 267-4007, out of Louisville, KY. They are a faith based organization and have been in business since 1984.
There are several pick up points in KY and IN. If you are in this part of the country, check it out. I highly recommend them!
Jett Tours–Jackson, KY
Owner Lillian Jett (3rd from right) and friendly Jett Tours staff
I have not yet traveled with this bus tour company but I am looking forward to doing so! I have been following them for some time and from the pics and all the great comments I saw on their Facebook page, I just had to check them out. So, I attended one of their 2019 Meet & Greet
Great trips, great value!
sessions and I can see why. What a fun group!
I did an interview with Owner, Lillian Jett, which you can see on the Gal Gone Camping Facebook page. Lillian is a retired school teacher and a great lady! This company has been in business for 46 years and travels to all the most desirable locations in the US and beyond.
For more info on Jett Tours and to find the most updated trip schedule, check out their Facebook page or visit the website http://www.jett-tours-online.com or call 606-272-2638. This company is based out of Jackson, KY, with several different pick up locations throughout eastern KY. This is also a faith based organization and they start every trip out with a prayer–which I think is a mighty fine idea!
Ideas for future trips
Another good thing about bus tours is it gives you a chance to scout out the area for future exploration. You may want to return to a particular area and camp or or take part in certain events or recreational activities.
Any way you look at it, bus tours are a great travel option. If you haven’t tried it, give it a shot. There are probably several in your area. Just Google bus tour companies in your location and see what you get. However, it is a good idea to check reviews and how long they’ve been in business.
Until next time, remember…DON’T WAIT TO LIVE!
See ya down the road,
Catrina