EF Educational Tours
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Greece, Italy, and Turkey (2-Week Program)
My daughter recently returned from a two week Educational Tours trip through her high school to Greece, Italy, and Turkey, including a cruise portion. She enjoyed the experience overall. The destinations were incredible and the tour guides were excellent, making the cultural and historical sites engaging and memorable. That said, families should be aware of some drawbacks. The trip was not inexpensive, $5,000 pp, yet several last-minute changes and logistical challenges made the experience more stressful than expected. For example, instead of flying to the departure airport, our group was bused over three hours, a change communicated at the last minute. Hotel stays throughout Europe were in very basic accommodations, which did not match the price point of the trip. The luggage policies and insurance plan were particularly problematic. Students were told they could only take the small approved carry-on for a 14 day trip, which limited packing. When flights were scheduled so close together on the return, my daughter’s luggage did not arrive back in Washington Dulles. Because our group then bused 3.5 hours home, her suitcase containing her entire summer wardrobe (all her shorts and bathing suits) was delayed by a week. When we filed a delayed luggage claim, it was denied. The insurance company (Broadspire Services Inc.) stated that coverage ended the moment the group landed in the United States, regardless of whether baggage was delivered. In short, while the destinations and guides were a highlight, families should understand that EF Tours reserves the right to change plans with little notice, accommodations are basic, and the insurance may not provide meaningful protection. It is tough to say if we would do this again, but I hope this review helps other families make an informed decision.