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Gate 1 Travel Review: Are Their Organized Tours Worth It?

Have you ever wanted to take a trip where everything is planned for you? I was in the same boat when I found Gate 1 Travel, which offers escorted coach tours all over the world. If you're wondering whether this is the route for you, I did all the work to give you the inside scoop!

One of the best parts of traveling is getting to decide where you want to go and what you want to see. However, it can also be the most stressful part of traveling.

How do you make sure you see everything you want to see, get the right hotels, and eat at the right restaurants, all while staying on budget? One option I often think about to help alleviate that stress is to book a tour that covers all the nitty-gritty details!

When you're thinking about organized travel, you'll come across so many tours and guides that'll it'll hurt your brain.

One of those is Gate 1 Travel. So, the real question is does it beat out other options when booking tours?

I wanted to find out so that you'll have the essential info on its tours, prices, destinations, and more! This way you'll be making a decision with lots of valuable knowledge.

What Is Gate 1 Travel?

If you're not a fan of traveling with strangers, my advice is to go with a travel agency or plan your own trip. Don't go with Gate 1 Travel or other travel groups. Plan and go discover on your own instead with Pilot!

That's because you will definitely be exploring with a group if you book with with Gate 1 Travel.

Numbers fluctuate, but if you're keen on staying in a smaller group, be sure to check out Gate 1's Small Group tours . Also known as Discovery Tours, there are no more than 22 travelers on these trips, so you won't have to worry about there being too many people with you.

‍ Discovery Tours also allow you to get up close and personal with the country you're visiting in a way that often isn't possible in larger, escorted tours.

How Large Are Gate 1 Travel Groups?

If you're not a fan of traveling with strangers, my advice is to go with a travel agency or plan your own trip. Don't go with Gate 1 Travel.

Numbers fluctuate, but if you're keen on staying in a smaller group, be sure to check out Gate 1's  Small Group tours . Also known as Discovery Tours, there are no more than 22 travelers on these trips, so you won't have to worry about there being too many people with you. 

‍ Discovery Tours  also allow you to get up close and personal with the country you're visiting in a way that often isn't possible in larger, escorted tours. 

How Do I Book a Tour?

If you're interested in booking a tour with Gate 1 Travel, you'll first need to make an account.

You can head to the login page to do this. Once you've done that, you can start booking!

You'll select your tour region, followed by the country you want to visit and the tour that appeals most to you.

Choose your departure date, and decide whether you want flights included. You can then select those flights and any optional tours you may want to do during your trip.

What's Included in Gate 1 Travel Tours?

When booking a tour with Gate 1, you want to know what's included.

Something I liked to see is that every trip offers a "land only" and "air & land" price, so you can decide whether to have your flights included. Flights do only go to and from select cities, depending on your tour dates.

Escorted tours will include the following:

• Accommodation for the nights of the tour
• Hotel taxes and service charges 
• Transport between cities
• Certain meals (what's included will be outlined in the tour details)
• Sightseeing per the itinerary in an air-conditioned coach with a guide!

Not included is airfare for land-only trips, any visa-related fees, and optional extras you may decide to add to your tour.

Gate 1 Deals

Every traveler loves a good deal, and Gate 1 offers some great affordable vacations. It's actually one of the best bundle travel deal sites out there!

By heading to the company's Featured Specials page, you'll get to see Gate 1's flash deals, as well as any last-minute deals for upcoming departure dates. They also have a featured destination sale which will change from time to time.

To access the deals, you'll need to use the promo code listed on these pages, and then you're on your way to saving on your next trip!

From its website, you can also sign up to receive weekly deals via email. You never know what you'll get in your inbox!

How Do I Contact Gate 1 Travel Customer Service?

Whether you have a question or a complaint, it's never a bad idea to know how to contact customer service.

Gate 1 Travel is currently experiencing a high volume of inquiries, but you can still fill out a  form  via the website to send an online inquiry. 

If you're traveling soon, you can get ahold of the team by phone. The company has 24-hour assistance line can be reached in the US by calling 215-572-7676. 

Cancellation Policy

If you find you can no longer join your Gate 1 Travel tour, how can you cancel your trip?

Once you've made at least a partial payment on your trip, you have to submit a cancellation request in writing via the contact us page.

Cancellation fees will then be applied based on how much time remains before your trip and will be applied as a percentage of what has already been paid. 

Customer Reviews

Overall, travelers seem to be satisfied with Gate 1's services and its tours.

Many of the complaints speak to packages booked with flights and how flight cancellations or changes have upheaved entire trips. Others have also mentioned the mismatch of travel credits promised versus ones they actually offer.

Other travelers have complained about Gate 1's customer service as being difficult to reach and not entirely helpful. It sounds like quite a few individuals had a tough time getting a full refund for their trip, even with travel insurance, when booking with them.

Whether it's that explanations can't be given, refunds are not fully issued, or travelers are sent in circles, it sounds like customer service is a hit or miss.

Other complaints have also touched on the itineraries being too packed to truly enjoy what you're seeing or to feel rested enough for them. 

Is Gate 1 Travel Worth It?

After all my reading, my advice is to proceed with caution. Here's why.

My first impression when I got onto the website is that this is mainly targeting an older audience, with their branding outdated to the 2000s. That's not a judging criteria, but just a red flag in my opinion.

While Gate 1 Travel offers a lot of packaged tours, the volume of travelers who have had their trips impacted by flights booked through Gate 1 is concerning.

Instead, I would avoid the flight risks by opting for land-only tours. If you go this route, Gate 1 does offer tours all over the world, so it's a good place to at least browse through when you're trying to make a decision.

They also offer other kind of tours like independent vacations, European river cruises, and customized international vacation packages, but it's honestly not for me. The price is way too expensive and I can frankly plan it myself.

They also seem to charge a bit more than the actual ticket for many attractions, which to me seems like a dealbreaker unless it is actually hard for me to get the travel reservations myself.

In Gate 1 Travel's benefit, they sure do have tons of locations. From Paris to Peru, From Ecuador to Budapest, their tour packages extend to many destinations around the world. They also offer discount travel packages there and here, so that's something to consider for all you deal-seekers.

Keep in mind that some comments were made about the itineraries being a bit packed. So, if you're more of a relaxed traveler, I would be very careful going with Gate 1 Travel.

That being said, if you want to do and see as much as humanly possibly, Gate 1 could be the tour company for you!

If you like the idea of booking a tour but still aren't convinced that Gate 1 Travel is right for you, make sure to also check out companies like EF and Intrepid !

Our Rating: 3.1/5 

• Tours all over the world
• Small group options for more immersive experiences
• Includes accommodation, and guided coach tours
• Options for smaller group tours
• Flight cancellations can result in trip cancellation
• Poor customer service
• Some feedback of packed schedules

Gate 1 Travel FAQs:

Is gate 1 travel still in business.

Yes, very much so. They've been operating for over 40 years and continue to maintain its operations despite its outdated website design.

Is Gate 1 Travel better than Trafalgar Tours?

They both offer the same comparable luxury comfort tours, so it's hard to say. I'd give Trafalgar the edge since they have more experience under their belt, but individual experiences will vary. Read our Trafalgar Tours Review for more detail!

Is Gate 1 Travel an American Company?

Yes, they're an American owned and run company based in Fort Washington, PA!

Who is the founder of Gate 1?

Dani Pipano is Gate 1 Travel's founder.

Ready to Get Traveling?

Whether you opt for a Gate 1 Travel tour, use another company, or decide to freestyle your next adventure, we want to make sure that you have the best time.

Use Pilot so you can keep all the different elements of your travels in one place and easily access them all. Plan your dream vacation today with Pilot!

Disclosure : Pilot is supported by our community. We may earn a small commission fee with affiliate links on our website. All reviews and recommendations are independent and do not reflect the official view of Pilot.

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Gate 1’s New Tour Types, Explained

Gate 1 Travel has released a new system for categorizing our growing range of travel experiences. We hope that the new categories, which are now listed on the table of contents for each destination, will help our passengers find their preferred travel experience more quickly.

The new tour categories focus on a few key elements: season, itinerary, length, and group size. The list below can also be found on destination tables of contents by hovering over the blue question mark at the top of the “Category” column.

Classic – First class accommodations, balance of included sightseeing and free time, transfers & multiple meals included.

Off Season – Beat the crowds with a Classic tour itinerary in the off-season, and save on land services and airfare.

Partially Escorted – A portion of your itinerary will feature escorted touring services with additional time traveling independently.

Value – Tourist and/or first class accommodations, minimal inclusions with a variety of optional tours available to customize your experience.

Express – Short getaways featuring the highlights of a destination with maximum efficiency.

Luxury – Deluxe accommodations, unique & exclusive experiences, exceptional food, all touring and most gratuities included.

Small Group – Maximum 22 travelers, unique & boutique accommodations, enhanced cultural immersion

Independent – Explore at your own pace, without the included features of an escorted tour.

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Posted by Gate 1 Travel

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The gate family of brands are industry leaders in creating and delivering unforgettable culinary and hospitality experiences, spanning across all tastes and preferences. Our brands provide a wide range of services including catering and provisioning for onboard travel passengers, retailing food, beverages, and boutique items for travel, and even providing all types of services for the wider food solutions industry, including packaging. Our diverse portfolio of brands allows us to respond more effectively to our customer needs and market trends by fostering product development and innovation.

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5 Bucket List Europe Trips to Take With Gate 1 Travel

Caroline Morse Teel

Caroline Morse Teel is the Managing Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Follow her on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline .

Caroline joined Boston-based SmarterTravel in 2011 after living in Ireland, London, and Manhattan. She's traveled to all seven continents, jumped out of planes, and bungeed off bridges in the pursuit of a good story. She loves exploring off-the-beaten path destinations, anything outdoorsy, and all things adventure.

Her stories have also appeared online at USA Today, Business Insider, Huffington Post, Yahoo, Boston.com, TripAdvisor, Buzzfeed, Jetsetter, Oyster, Airfarewatchdog, and others.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "Earplugs. A good pair has saved my sleep and sanity many times!"

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro.

Travel Motto : "Don't be boring."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "Aisle (when the first class private suite isn't available)."

E-mail her at [email protected] .

Travel Smarter! Sign up for our free newsletter.

Editors Note: This story is sponsored by Gate 1 Travel.

There’s something truly magical about Europe that puts it at the top of most travelers’ bucket lists. From the ancient ruins of Athens and Rome to the soaring peaks of the Swiss Alps, Europe offers an enticing mix of world-class cuisine, ancient history, and stunning scenery unlike anywhere else.

Whether you want to explore one country in depth or see as many new destinations as possible, there’s no better way to make the most of your time on the continent than booking an expertly planned tour with Gate 1 Travel . For over 40 years, Gate 1 Travel has been crafting unforgettable European journeys, earning a reputation for exceptional value, incredible destinations, and first-class personal service. 

When you take a tour with Gate 1 Travel, you don’t have to spend hours researching the best hotels, sights, and restaurants—the itinerary is carefully curated for you, so you can spend your trip enjoying Europe rather than stressing over the logistics. 

Whether you’re savoring the flavors of Spain and Portugal, tracing Central Europe’s historic capitals, getting inspired by Italy’s Renaissance treasures, uncovering the natural wonders of Croatia and Slovenia, or basking in the Alpine glories of Germany, Switzerland, and Austria, these Gate 1 Travel tours are the best way to see Europe. Which one will you cross off your bucket list next?

15-Day Classic Spain & Portugal

If you’re seeking sunshine, head to southern Europe on Gate 1 Travel’s 15-Day Classic Spain & Portugal tour. This two-week trip kicks off in Lisbon, Portugal’s vibrant capital city, where you’ll explore historic gems like the Belem Tower and the UNESCO-listed Jeronimos Monastery. From here, you’ll embark on an unforgettable adventure through Spain and Portugal’s most captivating destinations, including Seville, Costa del Sol, Granada, Madrid, and Barcelona.

Highlights include watching a flamenco show in Seville (the birthplace of this passionate dance), marveling at the iconic Rock of Gibraltar, and seeing the legendary windmills of La Mancha, Don Quixote’s homeland. 

Your grand finale awaits in Barcelona, where the architectural marvel of La Sagrada Familia will leave you breathless.

11-Day Crown of Central Europe

Experience the cultural treasures of some of Europe’s most iconic cities on Gate 1 Travel’s 11-Day Crown of Central Europe tour, which visits Prague, Munich, Salzburg, Vienna, and Budapest. 

Your adventure begins in Prague’s Lesser Town and Old Town, where a walking tour winds you through charming streets and alleyways, showcasing the city’s picturesque architecture. In Munich, witness the whimsical dance of the famous Glockenspiel clock figurines as they chime the hour. For “Sound of Music” enthusiasts, Salzburg might be the tour’s crown jewel, offering a chance to explore filming locations from the beloved movie.

Austria’s Lake District is an underrated European gem for nature lovers and it’s your next stop on this adventure. Here, 76 lakes shimmer amidst breathtaking landscapes. Set sail on a tranquil cruise from the quaint village of St. Wolfgang, gliding past picturesque hamlets and towering peaks.

After soaking in the stunning natural beauty, you’ll head to historic Vienna. Here, you’ll tour the lavish Schonbrunn Palace and its sprawling gardens, leaving you with a lasting impression of Central European grandeur.

Your grand finale awaits in Budapest, where you’ll have time for a comprehensive guided tour and the opportunity to wander and discover the city’s hidden alleyways and charms on your own. 

Planning a Trip to Europe: Your 10-Step Guide

9-Day Enchanting Italy

Could any European bucket list be considered complete without a visit to Italy? Gate 1 Travel’s streamlined 9-Day Enchanting Italy tour offers an unforgettable taste of the country’s most famous cities and sights. The trip begins in Venice, where you’ll have plenty of time to explore this unique island city with its winding canals and alleyways. Visit a glassblowing factory on Murano Island and take a guided walking tour of the city’s top sights, such as St. Mark’s Square and the Doge’s Palace. 

The journey continues through the Tuscan countryside, stopping for a wine tasting at a local farm. Check the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa off your bucket list before continuing to Florence, where art lovers will be in absolute heaven delving into the Uffizi Gallery’s treasure trove of iconic works. Of course, no Tuscan visit would be complete without reveling in the region’s famous wines and fare in an authentic countryside vineyard and rustic family farm.

Finally, stop in the hill town of Assisi to view the famous Basilica of St. Francis. Then, it’s on to Rome to tour the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica and explore ancient Roman sites like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Arch of Constantine. 

10 Day Croatia & Slovenia

Some of Europe’s most underrated spots and hidden gems await on Gate 1 Travel’s 10-Day Croatia & Slovenia tour. This trip jumps off in the historic Croatian capital of Zagreb, where the charming cobblestoned streets entice visitors into leisurely strolls punctuated with stops at the city’s lively cafes and restaurants. 

Crossing into Slovenia, you’ll be mesmerized by the stunning scenery of Lake Bled’s emerald waters dotted with the fairytale-like island church. In the lively capital of Ljubljana, you can indulge in regional culinary specialties and wines at the open-air markets and trendy restaurants.

From there, you’ll be transported to a natural wonderland back in Croatia at Plitvice Lakes National Park, where thundering waterfalls and lush hiking trails connect 16 terraced turquoise lakes. The adventure culminates on the Adriatic coast, where you’ll soak up the sun and old-world charms of Split and Dubrovnik.      

11-Day Germany, Switzerland & Austria

The hit list of Central European destinations on Gate 1 Travel’s 11-Day Germany, Switzerland & Austria tour begins in Mainz, a medieval city on the Rhine. A leisurely cruise down the river, gliding past hilltop castles, terraced vineyards, and quaint villages, will give you a unique vantage point of the area. 

Switch to a comfortable bus for an equally scenic drive through the Black Forest region en route to Switzerland. There, you’ll spend two relaxing nights in the charming lakeside city of Lucerne, home to iconic attractions like the Chapel Bridge and Mt. Pilatus. You can indulge in iconic Swiss specialties like fondue, chocolate, and cheeses while soaking up the mesmerizing mountain panoramas. 

Then, crisscross back into Germany, where you’ll have a chance to tour the real-life inspiration for Disney’s Sleeping Beauty castle—the magnificent, turreted Neuschwanstein Castle, set against the serene Bavarian Alps.

Over the next few days, you’ll explore the Austrian Alps and enjoy the baroque splendor of cities like Innsbruck, Salzburg, and Vienna.

The journey ends in Germany, where you’ll have plenty of time to explore the lively city of Munich (and sip a stein at one of the famous beer halls to toast your amazing adventure).

What’s Included?

Gate 1 Travel’s group tours include flights from select departure cities, accommodations, meals and entrance fees as detailed in the itinerary, an English-speaking tour manager, and services of local guides.

This story is sponsored by Gate 1 Travel.  

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12 Day First Class Russian River Cruise with St. Petersburg & Moscow 2018 Itinerary

This trip not available.

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• Tour of enchanting St. Petersburg with its beautiful Russian architecture View the magnificent Peterhof Palace and Gardens Visit the world-famous Hermitage Museum, housed in the lavishly decorated Winter Palace in St. Petersburg Sail to Mandrogi, a reconstructed 18th century traditional Russian village Stand in awe at the fairy tale Church of Transfiguration in Kizhi, a World Heritage Site Guided walking tour of the Kremlin grounds Tour of the 16th century Novodevichy Convent & a unique tour of the Moscow subway stations Captain's Welcome Cocktail Reception and Gala Farewell Dinner Choice of a glass of wine or juice with dinner Russian vodka tasting on board

What's this trip about?

Travel themes, destinations, attractions.

• St. Petersburg

Trip includes

• Flights New York-St. Petersburg, Moscow-New York or vice versa Other departure cities available. Click on date of departure for selection and prices Airline taxes & fuel surcharges 10 nights First Class accommodations
• 2 nights St. Petersburg 7 nights First Class river cruise on MS Mstislav Rostropovich 1 night Moscow Port fees Cruise porterage All transfers 23 meals: 10 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 7 dinners Shore excursions per itinerary Entrance fees per itinerary

Want a tailor-made trip instead?

Your trip, your way, planned by an expert:.

• You choose budget, destinations, activities, transport & lodging type
• Expert designs the itinerary for you, and once approved, takes care of logistics

Dates & Availability

Check Current Availability, prices, specials with Gate 1 Travel .

The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

Gate 1 Travel Reviews & Ratings

Other gate 1 travel reviews.

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Dumped on the side of the road

My wife, her two sisters and I took a 14 day tour of France with Gate 1 on May 8, 2024. Our guide, Jordane, started the tour with a speech about health and safety a...

Cannot Wait to do another Gate 1 Trip

Just came back last week from a River Cruise Danube. It was fabulous. I do not have one complaint at all. The food, staff, rooms were top notch. We traveled on th...

Not worth it!

My husband and I have taken many trips with Gate 1 but something with the company has changed and I do not recommend travelling with them now. We travelled on their ...

See all Other Gate 1 Travel reviews

Tour Operator

Gate 1 travel.

Gate 1 Travel offers escorted tours, European river cruises, independent vacations and customized international vacation packages for less. Our discount travel packages and tour packages to destinations worldwide provide exceptional value, saving our customers time and money. We have taken care of all the details so you don't have to. Find your dream vacation today.

Company Background & Highlights

Mission: To deliver More of the World for Less by developing quality, affordable vacations for North Americans. To provide exemplary service to our customers and to earn their loyalty. To respect our partners. To invest in our employees, providing a safe and comfortable work environment. To know and understand our products and destinations. To constantly innovate and be a leader in technology.

Founded in 1981 with 3 employees; now with over 200 employees worldwide

Headquarters: Fort Washington, PA (Suburban Philadelphia)

Overseas Offices: Hungary, China, Costa Rica, Egypt, Morocco, Argentina, Indonesia, Great Britain, Greece, India, Israel, Italy, Peru, Ecuador, Spain, Switzerland, Thailand, Cambodia & Vietnam

30+ years of providing travel services to clientèle

Product Types

Escorted Tours - Group Tours

Small Group Tours

European River Cruises

Escorted Bus Tour/Sea Cruise Combinations

Independent City Stays

Independent Fly & Drive Packages

Multi-Destination Rail Packages

Customized Vacations (Vacation Builder)

Custom Groups and Individuals

Target Consumer Market

Gate 1 Travel's target market is a traveler seeking high quality, affordable travel ranging from a superior tourist class to moderate deluxe class level of accommodations with the highest level of service.

Financial Security

Gate 1 Travel is backed by the largest, most well-respected financial institutions and insurance providers, guaranteeing the greatest level of financial security to every passenger. Gate 1 welcomes your inquiries of any of those independent offices.

Gate 1 Travel's active membership in USTOA (United States Tour Operators Association), a professional organization representing the world's leading tour operators, requires that Gate 1 meet a minimum requirement of $1 million professional liability insurance (Gate 1 maintains a $5 million policy).

Additionally , Gate 1 is required to participate in the USTOA $1 Million Travelers Assistance Program, requiring them to post $1 million in security, held by USTOA, in the unlikely event of bankruptcy or insolvency.

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Meet Larry Connor, the Ohio billionaire taking a submersible to the Titanic despite last summer's OceanGate implosion

Posted: June 8, 2024 | Last updated: June 8, 2024

• Billionaire Larry Connor will travel to the Titanic shipwreck site in a two-person submersible.
• Connor's voyage comes after OceanGate's submersible imploded in June 2023.
• Connor is a thrill-seeker who set a world record jumping from a hot air balloon.

An Ohio billionaire who's flown to space and explored the Mariana Trench has set his sights on a new adventure: the Titanic shipwreck.

Real estate investor Larry Connor, 74, will take the ocean voyage with Patrick Lahey, cofounder and CEO of Triton Submarines. The submersible manufacturer confirmed their collaboration in a May Instagram post , calling it "groundbreaking."

The pair told The Wall Street Journal in May that they would travel to the Titanic wreck site to prove it can be done safely after last year's OceanGate tragedy.

OceanGate CEO Stockton Rush and four other passengers died after the company's Titan submersible imploded on the way to the Titanic shipwreck site.

"I want to show people worldwide that while the ocean is extremely powerful, it can be wonderful and enjoyable and really kind of life-changing if you go about it the right way," Connor told the outlet.

Even before announcing his deep-ocean ambitions, Connor has sought thrills on land and in Earth's orbit.

Here's what we know about Connor.

Connor is a real estate investor who founded The Connor Group, which has $5 billion in assets.

Connor's entrepreneurial mindset led him to the real estate industry in 1991, when he launched Connor, Murphy, and Buhrman with only one investor, according to his company bio.

He later bought out his partners and, in 2003, created the luxury real estate investment firm The Connor Group, which is based in Ohio.

He has a $2 billion net worth, according to Forbes.

The firm's website says The Connor Group specializes in luxury apartment communities with more than $5 billion in assets in 18 US markets.

The Connor Group — with over 1,300 investors — has properties in Atlanta, Chicago, Charlotte, Miami, Phoenix, Louisville, and more.

He founded The Greater Dayton School.

The Greater Dayton School is described as "Ohio's first non-religious private school for under-resourced students" on The Connor Group's website. The official campus opened for students in November 2023, according to the school's website .

The school's website said 105 children were enrolled in Pre-K through fourth grade as of October 2023.

Connor is also passionate about racing and has over 70 wins.

Connor's bio said he's a "two-time winner of the Baja 1000 and Baja 500 in the Trophy Truck Spec class."

He also claimed first place at the Formula Atlantic National Championship in 2001 and 2002 before emerging victorious at the Petit Le Mans in 2003, his bio says.

Connor visited Mariana Trench, the deepest known place on Earth, in April 2021.

Connor's upcoming voyage to the Titanic shipwreck site won't be his first time traveling with Lahey.

The pair completed dives to the Sirena Deep, the Challenger Deep, and a seamount in the Mariana Trench over five days in April 2021, according to The Connor Group.

Connor and Lahey used the Triton 36000/2 designed by Triton Submarines. A press release from Triton Submarines said Connor and Lahey "gathered high-quality video footage and samples in the 'hadal zone,' or the area of the ocean below 20,000 ft. — the final frontier of exploration on Earth."

Scientists planned to study the information Connor and Lahey gathered on their trip for medical, commercial, and evolutionary research.

He piloted a flight to the International Space Station one year later.

Connor became the first private astronaut pilot in April 2022 when he flew members of Axiom Mission 1 to the International Space Station, his firm says. The four-person crew flew aboard a SpaceX Crew Dragon spaceship on April 8 and returned to Earth on April 25.

NASA and aerospace startup Axiom Space first announced the flight in May 2021.

"While on board the ISS, the crew completed 25 different experiments, logging over 100 hours of research," a press release from The Connor Group read. "Larry partnered with renowned medical experts at Mayo Clinic and Cleveland Clinic on four different experiments to study the heart, brain, spine and aging."

He made a world-record jump from a hot air balloon in September 2023.

Connor and four other men hold the Guinness World Record for the highest HALO — high altitude, low opening — formation skydive at 38,139 feet. The crew set the record in September 2023.

"Larry and the Alpha-5 Team prepared for over one year to make the HALO formation skydive. They jumped from a hot air balloon and made the jump to support the Special Operations Warfare Foundation (SOWF) charity," the Guinness World Record website says.

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What is group travel insurance?

• Coverage options
• Choosing the right plan

Purchasing and managing group policies

• Special considerations
• Final recommendations and tips

Group Travel Insurance: A Comprehensive Guide

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• Group travel insurance is a single policy that covers groups of 10 or more. 
• Everyone in the group must have the same itinerary and travel to the same destination.
• Shop early and compare quotes to get the best deal. 

Whether preparing for a large family reunion in another state, booking a business trip with colleagues, or traveling with your college crew to a new country, you might consider group travel insurance. Group travel insurance provides financial protection for trips of 10 or more groups. But apart from the party size requirements, it functions the same as other travel insurance policies. 

Here's what you need to know about group travel insurance — how to determine if you need it, different options, and tips to secure the best deal. 

Group travel insurance is a single travel insurance policy that protects everyone on a trip. The policies are available for groups of 10 or more. Unlike other insurance policies that only cover one person or family travel insurance that only covers related travelers, group travel insurance can cover any group traveling together. You do not have to be related.

Group travel insurance policies usually offer comprehensive coverage, including standard protections against lost luggage, legal fees, medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and more. 

Key Benefits of Group Travel Insurance

Cost-effectiveness.

Group travel insurance may be cheaper than buying separate policies for each individual traveler. Insurance companies may provide discounts for insuring multiple people, as this lowers administrative overhead per person. This is similar to how auto insurers offer rate reductions for consumers who insure multiple people under one policy. 

It's worth noting that group travel insurance costs depend on the insurer and your trip details. Comparing quotes can help you find the best rates on the coverages you need.

You can find our guide on the best cheap travel insurance here.

Simplified management

Group travel insurance might make sense if everyone in your group has the same itinerary and travels to the same destination. The main perk of group travel insurance versus separate policies for each person is that it streamlines the purchasing process. You can buy one policy instead of multiple.

But to make it work, your group needs to be organized. This is especially true if group members intend to split the cost of the policy. It's crucial to communicate well with the people in your group and ensure everyone is on the same page. 

Coverage Options

Common coverage features.

Most group travel insurance policies offer comprehensive coverage, which usually covers common travel issues like cancellations and medical emergencies. 

Here's what comprehensive group travel insurance covers :

• Trip cancellation insurance: If you need to cancel your trip, this coverage reimburses you for the cost of travel. Each policy includes a list of cancellation reasons that are covered.
• Travel insurance for baggage: This covers the cost of stolen or missing luggage.
• Emergency medical evacuation insurance : Covers the cost of transportation from one location to another due to an emergency medical situation.
• Travel medical insurance: If you need medical care due to illness or injury while traveling, this part of the policy covers the cost. 
• Trip interruption travel insurance: If you have to cut your trip short due to an unforeseen emergency, this helps pay for travel plan changes. 
• Trip delay travel insurance: If there are delays to your flight or another aspect of your trip, this covers extra costs associated with the delay. It might include reimbursement for meals or hotel expenses. 

Additional coverage options

You can customize your travel insurance policy with coverage options at an additional premium. These add-ons can be helpful to provide adequate coverage for your group's specific needs. Some examples include:

• Adventure and sports coverage: For planned activities that involved increased risk (e.g., hiking, scuba diving, skiing, etc.) 
• Special events coverage: For cancellations, interruptions, or other losses that occur during planned events (e.g., weddings, corporate events, excursions, etc.)
• Equipment coverage: For damage, loss, or theft of equipment or gear brought on the trip (e.g., sports equipment, tech, etc.)
• Pre-existing condition waiver : For those with pre-existing conditions to receive travel medical coverage while traveling

Choosing the right group travel insurance

Assessing group needs.

Assessing your group's needs can help you choose the right group travel insurance. Some factors to consider include but aren't limited to the duration and destination of your trip, the type of travelers and their needs (including their ages and any pre-existing conditions), planned activities, and the group's budget.

Comparing insurance providers

Depending on the details of your trip, group travel insurance might be cheaper than purchasing individual policies for each traveler. But that is not always the case. As you shop for group travel insurance, there are steps you can take to ensure you get the best deal.

Get multiple quotes

It's smart to compare quotes from several providers. Multiple quotes allow you to compare coverage options and pricing. You can use a travel insurance comparison site like SquareMouth or TravelInsurance.com . Or you contact providers directly. Once you know the price range for protection, you can select the provider that seems like the best fit. 

The best time to buy travel insurance is right after you make your first trip deposit. Your policy kicks in right away, which is helpful if an event occurs that forces you to cancel your trip. Additionally, an early purchase can be necessary to qualify for certain riders, such as pre-existing condition coverage and CFAR travel insurance .

Application and enrollment process

You should be prepared to provide the following information about your group when fielding quotes from travel insurance companies. 

• Trip dates 
• Travelers' names and date of birth
• Destination 
• Initial trip deposit date 
• Cost of trip per traveler (prepaid and nonrefundable expenses)

Your insurance company may ask for additional information, such as pre-existing medical conditions and planned activities. 

Policy management and claims

The coverage you select applies to everyone in the group. Each group member can make individual claims, which is helpful if only one or two people need to make a claim. But if everyone is involved, the entire group can file claims. 

Special Considerations for Group Travel Insurance

Tailoring policies to group type.

It's important to tailor your insurance policy based on the type of group and the trip to ensure adequate protection. For example, if you're traveling with senior members, you want your policy's medical coverage to include pre-existing conditions. If your trip has physical or outdoor activities, adventure and sports coverage is additional protection worth considering. 

A travel insurance agent can help you identify which coverages are necessary for your group's trip and find a policy that works for your group's budget.

Handling diverse member needs

Handling the diverse needs of group members within a single policy requires careful attention to policy details, including coverage specifics and deductibles. Start by thoroughly reviewing the policy to understand the included coverages and associated deductibles. If certain coverages are unnecessary for your group, ask your insurer whether they can be removed to reduce costs. 

You may want to look for a policy with add-ons or customizable options. This allows you to tailor the coverage to meet the specific needs of different group members. Additionally, consider raising the deductible to lower the premium. However, ensure the deductible amount is affordable for all members in case a claim needs to be filed. This ensures your group has adequate protection while accommodating the diverse financial needs of the group.

Group travel insurance final recommendations and tips

Best practices for group leaders.

Before your trip, communicate insurance details like coverage inclusions, exclusions, deductibles, and how to file a claim with your group. It also helps to maintain policy documents in case an unexpected event arises. 

You and your group should also establish a contingency plan and save your insurance's emergency hotline contact number for medical emergencies, natural disasters, or other travel disruptions.

Resources for further information

For further information on group travel insurance, check out:

• Insurance companies' websites for information about coverage options, exclusions, and getting a quote. 
• Travel insurance comparison sites allow users to compare policies from multiple providers at once based on coverage, price, and other factors. Some examples of comparison websites include InsureMyTrip , Squaremouth, and VisitorsCoverage . 
• Travel agencies to help you book your trip and pick group travel insurance based on your itinerary. 
• Consumer review sites like Trustpilot and ConsumerAffairs to read first-hand testimonials by real users on their experience with a company. 

Group travel insurance FAQs

Group travel insurance typically requires a minimum of 10 travelers to qualify for group travel insurance, but this varies by provider.

Yes, many group travel insurance policies offer options for various activities specific to the group's needs and travel itinerary, such as adventure and sports, special events, and equipment coverage. 

Group travel insurance can be more cost-effective per person than individual policies, especially for larger groups. Compare quotes from various insurance providers to get the best deal on the coverages you need. 

If one member  of a group travel insurance plan has an issue, that member can file a claim with the travel insurance company individually. That's why it's important for every member to be familiar with the claims process in case an issue arises. 

A group leader should consider the group's specific needs, planned activities, destination-specific risks, and the group's budget when choosing a travel insurance policy. 

Editorial Note: Any opinions, analyses, reviews, or recommendations expressed in this article are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any card issuer. Read our editorial standards .

Please note: While the offers mentioned above are accurate at the time of publication, they're subject to change at any time and may have changed, or may no longer be available.

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8 Ways To Save Money on Group Travel Packages

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Traveling brings new experiences and opens your mind to new cultures and possibilities. It can also open your wallet and take all your extra money .

Squaremouth Travel Insurance reported that the average summer trip cost rests at almost $10,000 this year (the first time ever). This represents a 7% increase over 2023 and a stunning 14% increase over 2022. The overall rising cost of travel and stubborn inflation are to blame.

This is surely a lot of money, however, traveling as a group can save you a bundle.

Here are eight ways to save with group travel, as reported by Go Overseas .

1. Cook and Shop for Group Meals

When you’re on the trip, it’s a smart idea to go grocery shopping as a group and split costs. If your accommodation has a kitchen and dining area, you can save money by cooking some meals rather than dining out during your whole vacation.

2. Plan Beforehand as Much as Possible

Typically, booking hotels, airfare, transportation, and excursions well in advance of your travel dates can save everyone money. Scrambling to book at the last minute can result in higher costs for the whole party, which could defeat the purpose of traveling as a group in the first place.

3. Book Group Accommodations

Rather than booking separate hotel rooms at a lavish resort, consider booking a large Airbnb or other vacation rental that might be off the beaten path. Splitting the cost of a large house with many bedrooms can certainly be more cost-effective than each individual or couple getting their own hotel room.

4. Be Transparent

Transparency is important when agreeing to travel as a group. Everyone might not have the same budget or financial means, so it’s important to get on the same page about costs. If the majority of the group is looking to save money, consider the most cost-effective options that fall within everyone’s budget.

5. Plan for Cheaper Transportation

It can be easy to pay for pre-arranged transportation to take you from the airport to a hotel, resort, or vacation rental. However, renting a van as a group — or taking an Uber instead of a prearranged airport transfer — could save everyone money. Also, if car rentals are necessary and you’re a big group, consider renting the biggest vehicle possible (so that everyone can fit in, rather than renting multiple cars for the group).

6. You Don’t Have To Do Everything Together

Group travel doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to do everything together. For example, some people may want to do an excursion, while other more budget-conscious group members may want to sit by the pool and read a book for the day.

7. Negotiate Discounts for Groups

It’s often the case that booking as a large group can come with discounts for hotels, excursions, etc. It’s worth calling ahead to find out if negotiating a lower group rate is possible before you go ahead and pay online.

8. Split Costs

Traveling as a group will come with many expenses to divide up. It’s important to set expectations about estimated costs before booking and divide costs evenly and fairly. It can be smart to have one person pay, and then everyone pays them, in order to streamline the booking process and eliminate any confusion.

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