gate 1 mexico tours

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?

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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 Travel: Your Ultimate Guide

Are you planning a vacation but overwhelmed by the countless options to choose from? Look no further than Gate 1 Travel. In this ultimate guide, we cover everything you need to know about Gate 1 Travel.

From understanding the basics and services offered to how to plan your trip and what to expect on a tour, we’ve got you covered. We’ll also dive into customer support, promotions and deals, group travel advantages, and evaluating customer reviews.

Additionally, we’ll prepare you for your trip with health and safety protocols and packing tips. Discover what makes Gate 1 Travel stand out from other tour companies and find out if it’s worth it for your next adventure !

Table of Contents

1. Understanding the Basics of Gate 1 Travel

Gate 1 Travel, a leading provider of independent vacations and European river cruises, offers customized itineraries to discover the beauty of Ecuador.

With a wide range of tours, including options for Fort Washington and Discovery Tours, Gate 1 Travel caters to all types of travel enthusiasts.

Experience hassle-free travel with their expertly planned itineraries, whether you’re a solo traveler or part of a group. Gate 1 Travel ensures a memorable vacation filled with adventure and stunning destinations.

What is Gate 1 Travel?

Gate 1 Travel is a renowned travel company specializing in guided tours and vacation packages. With an extensive range of destinations and curated experiences, they provide exceptional customer service.

Embark on unforgettable adventures and let Gate 1 Travel handle all the details of your dream vacation.

2. The History and Growth of Gate 1 Travel

Gate 1 Travel has come a long way since its inception, growing from a small venture into a global leader in the travel industry. Over the years, Gate 1 Travel has expanded its offerings to cater to the ever-changing needs of travelers. Its commitment to excellence has been the driving force behind its growth and success.

Gate 1 Travel has built a reputation for delivering exceptional travel experiences, and its history is filled with remarkable milestones and achievements.

3. Services offered by Gate 1 Travel

Gate 1 Travel provides a wide selection of tours, including European river cruises and independent vacations. Their itineraries are designed to offer immersive cultural experiences, catering to diverse travel interests. With personalized services and expert guidance, Gate 1 Travel ensures convenience and an unforgettable journey.

Whether you’re on a budget or looking for a luxurious experience, Gate 1 Travel offers various tour options to suit your preferences. Discover the world with Gate 1 Travel and create memories that will last a lifetime.

4. Overview of Gate 1 Tours

Gate 1 Tours offers comprehensive itineraries that encompass popular attractions and hidden gems. Immerse yourself in local culture and traditions through unique experiences. With Gate 1 Tours, you’ll enjoy a balance of guided sightseeing and free time for independent exploration.

Explore iconic landmarks as well as off-the-beaten-path destinations. Gate 1 Tours ensures a seamless travel experience with carefully planned logistics. Discover the world with Gate 1 Tours and make unforgettable memories.

5. Special Features of Gate 1 Tours

Gate 1 Tours stands out for its special features that enhance your travel experience. With expertly guided experiences led by knowledgeable and professional tour guides, you can be assured of a rich and informative journey.

Gate 1 Tours also offers the convenience of included meals, accommodations, and transportation, ensuring a hassle-free trip. Immerse yourself in local culture through interactions with locals, and savor authentic cuisine and traditional performances.

The flexibility of optional excursions and activities allows you to customize your trip and make it truly unforgettable.

6. How to Plan Your Vacation with Gate 1 Travel

Follow our step-by-step guide to booking a tour with Gate 1 Travel. Get tips on choosing the right Gate 1 Tour that aligns with your interests and preferences.

Discover how Gate 1 Travel makes vacation planning easy and stress-free. Find out how to customize your itinerary and add special touches to your Gate 1 Travel experience.

Explore different options for accommodations and transportation when planning with Gate 1 Travel.

7. Step-by-step Guide to Booking a Tour

To book a tour with Gate 1 Travel, start by exploring their website for various tour options and destinations. Once you’ve found your preferred tour and departure date, follow the booking process on their website to secure your reservation.

Before finalizing your booking, review the tour details and make any necessary adjustments. Once everything is in order, complete the payment process and receive confirmation of your tour booking. With this step-by-step guide, booking a tour with Gate 1 Travel is simple and hassle-free.

8. Tips for Choosing the Right Gate 1 Tour

Consider your travel preferences, interests, and desired destinations when selecting a Gate 1 Tour. Gain insights from reviews and testimonials of previous travelers to make an informed decision. Seek personalized recommendations and advice from Gate 1 Travel’s customer service team.

Take into account factors such as duration, inclusions, and optional activities to ensure the tour aligns with your preferences. Ensure that the itinerary of your chosen Gate 1 Tour matches your desired travel experience.

9. Unpacking the Gate 1 Travel Experience

Discover the unique aspects that set Gate 1 Travel apart from other providers. Prioritizing customer satisfaction, they create unforgettable memories. Experience their convenience, reliability, and professionalism throughout your journey.

Gain insights into the attention to detail and meticulous planning behind every tour. Unpack the value and benefits of choosing Gate 1 Travel for your next vacation.

10. What to Expect on a Gate 1 Tour

Embark on an unforgettable journey with Gate 1 Travel and prepare for an experience like no other. Our expert guides will take you to the world’s most iconic destinations, where you’ll immerse yourself in local culture and traditions.

Throughout your tour, enjoy comfortable accommodations and transportation as you create lasting memories with fellow travel enthusiasts. Get ready to explore, learn, and be amazed on a Gate 1 Tour.

11. Unique Experiences Offered by Gate 1 Travel

Embark on breathtaking European river cruises for an unforgettable vacation. Discover Ecuador’s stunning landscapes and wildlife on an adventure tour. Indulge in independent vacations with customizable itineraries.

Experience once-in-a-lifetime discovery tours to hidden gems worldwide. Immerse yourself in Fort Washington’s charm and history with Gate 1 Travel.

12. Overview of Gate 1 Travel Groups

Gate 1 Travel offers a variety of group travel options to cater to every type of traveler. Join like-minded individuals on a group tour for a shared and enriching experience. On these tours, you can enjoy the convenience of traveling with a knowledgeable tour guide who will enhance your journey with valuable insights.

Interacting with fellow travelers along the way allows you to make new friends and create lasting memories. With Gate 1 Travel, you can explore the world in a safe and organized manner.

13. Size and Composition of Travel Groups

Gate 1 Travel offers small and intimate travel groups, providing personalized experiences. These groups promote camaraderie and connection, allowing travelers to meet people from different backgrounds and share unique travel stories. While enjoying the flexibility to explore independently, travelers also benefit from the expertise of experienced tour leaders.

With Gate 1 Travel, you can have the best of both worlds – the convenience of group travel and the freedom to create your own unique journey.

14. Advantages of Group Travel with Gate 1

Save time and hassle with meticulously planned itineraries and seamless logistics. Gain exclusive access to attractions and experiences not available to individual travelers. Enjoy the convenience of group discounts and special offers. Benefit from the expertise of local guides, who provide valuable insights and insider knowledge.

Create lasting memories with like-minded travelers, forming connections that can extend beyond the trip itself. Traveling in a group with Gate 1 offers a host of advantages, making your journey even more enriching and enjoyable.

15. Gate 1 Travel Promotions and Deals

Discover the best deals and promotions with Gate 1 Travel. Maximize your savings with exclusive discounts and limited-time offers. Take advantage of early booking incentives for the best prices. Stay updated on the latest promotions through Gate 1 Travel’s newsletter. Explore the world without breaking the bank with their budget-friendly options.

Traveling with Gate 1 Travel allows you to experience more while spending less. Start planning your next adventure with their unbeatable promotions and deals.

How to Find the Best Deals?

To find the best deals with Gate 1 Travel, sign up for their newsletter to receive exclusive promotions. Stay flexible with your travel dates to take advantage of last-minute discounts. Check their website regularly for flash sales and limited-time offers.

Follow Gate 1 Travel on social media for real-time updates on deals and promotions. And don’t forget to consult with their travel specialists for personalized recommendations and insider tips. With these strategies, you can make the most of your travel budget.

16. Maximizing Savings with Gate 1 Travel

Combine multiple trips for additional savings and discounts. Take advantage of early bird booking discounts for the best prices. Consider traveling during shoulder or off-peak seasons for lower rates. Opt for a land-only package to save on airfare. Explore alternative destinations for unique experiences at a lower cost. Gate 1 Travel offers various ways to maximize your savings and make the most of your travel budget.

17. Customer Support at Gate 1 Travel

Experience exceptional customer support with Gate 1 Travel. Contact Gate 1 Travel’s dedicated customer service team for timely responses to your inquiries and concerns. Enjoy peace of mind knowing that help is just a phone call away. Receive personalized recommendations and travel advice from knowledgeable experts. At Gate 1 Travel, we prioritize providing the best customer support experience to ensure that your travel journey is smooth and hassle-free.

18. Contacting Gate 1 Travel Customer Service

Need assistance with booking, itinerary changes, or any travel-related questions? Reach out to Gate 1 Travel’s customer service team through phone, email, or live chat. Their friendly staff ensures prompt and helpful responses, reflecting their commitment to excellent customer support.

You can easily find the contact information on Gate 1 Travel’s website, making it convenient to connect with them whenever you need assistance. Experience the peace of mind of knowing that help is just a call or click away.

19. Navigating Cancellation Policies

Before booking your trip with Gate 1 Travel, it’s important to understand their cancellation policy. Familiarize yourself with any specific requirements or deadlines for canceling, and be aware of potential fees or penalties associated with cancellations. It’s also a good idea to check if your travel insurance covers cancellations due to unexpected events.

Gate 1 Travel offers flexible booking options, so consider these when making your decision. By navigating the cancellation policies effectively, you can have peace of mind when planning your trip.

Is Gate 1 Travel Worth It?

Gate 1 Travel is definitely worth it. They offer a wide range of destinations and itineraries, making it easy to find the perfect vacation for you.

With affordable options for independent travel, positive customer reviews, and a good reputation in the industry, Gate 1 Travel is a reliable choice. Their European river cruises and tours to Ecuador also provide unique and memorable experiences.

20. Evaluating Customer Reviews

When considering travel experiences with Gate 1 Travel, it’s important to read customer reviews for valuable insights. Look for recurring themes and patterns in these reviews.

Pay attention to comments on the quality of accommodations, guides, and transportation. It’s essential to consider both positive and negative reviews to obtain a balanced perspective. Customer reviews should be used as one of the factors in your decision-making process. By evaluating these reviews, you can make an informed choice about your travel plans.

21. Comparing Gate 1 Travel with Other Tour Companies

When comparing Gate 1 Travel with other tour companies, it’s important to do your research. Consider the destinations and itineraries offered by each company, as well as their reputation and customer reviews. Additionally, compare the level of service and inclusions provided by different companies.

Gate 1 Travel may have unique features or benefits that set them apart. By comparing all these factors, you can make an informed decision on which tour company best suits your travel needs.

22. Preparing For Your Trip with Gate 1 Travel

Before embarking on your journey with Gate 1 Travel, it’s essential to make thorough preparations. Familiarize yourself with the specific itinerary and destinations of your tour to ensure you don’t miss out on any highlights. Prioritize checking the weather conditions during your travel dates to pack appropriate clothing and be prepared for any climate changes.

Additionally, review the health and safety protocols provided by Gate 1 Travel to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Don’t forget to ensure you have all the necessary travel documents, including passports and visas. Lastly, follow any pre-trip guidelines or recommendations provided by Gate 1 Travel for a seamless travel experience.

23. Health and Safety Protocols on Gate 1 Tours

At Gate 1 Travel, the health and safety of our travelers is our top priority. We have implemented enhanced cleaning and sanitization measures on all our tours to ensure a safe environment for everyone.

Additionally, we closely follow local guidelines and regulations regarding COVID-19 protocols. Travelers may be required to adhere to social distancing guidelines during the tour to maintain a safe distance from others. Rest assured, we provide regular updates and information regarding any specific health requirements to ensure a worry-free travel experience.

24. What to Pack for a Gate 1 Tour

When preparing for your Gate 1 Travel tour, it’s essential to pack strategically. To ensure a comfortable experience, pack suitable clothing and shoes for the activities included in your tour. Consider the weather conditions and pack appropriate layers to stay prepared. Don’t forget essentials like toiletries, medications, and travel adapters.

It’s also wise to bring a daypack or bag for carrying personal items during excursions. Lastly, make sure to check the specific packing guidelines provided by Gate 1 Travel for your tour.

25. What Makes Gate 1 Travel Stand Out?

Gate 1 Travel stands out for its diverse selection of destinations and itineraries, catering to various travel preferences. With affordable pricing and inclusions, they offer excellent value for money. Their reputation for top-notch accommodations and knowledgeable guides ensures a memorable experience. Unique Discovery Tours provide immersive experiences, setting Gate 1 Travel apart in the industry.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of travel packages does gate 1 travel offer.

Gate 1 Travel offers a range of travel packages, including escorted tours, independent vacations, river cruises, and small-group tours. With options like tour managers, local guides, flexibility, unique waterway exploration, and personalized experiences, Gate 1 Travel provides something for every traveler. Additionally, customizable packages are available for those who prefer to design their own itinerary.

Are there any special deals or promotions available through Gate 1 Travel?

Gate 1 Travel frequently offers special deals and promotions on its website. These can range from discounts on specific tours or destinations. By signing up for Gate 1 Travel’s email newsletter, you can gain access to exclusive promotions. Additionally, regularly checking the “Deals” section on their website will help you find the best deals available.

How does Gate 1 Travel ensure the safety and comfort of its customers during travel?

Gate 1 Travel goes above and beyond to prioritize the safety and comfort of its customers during travel. With the help of local experts and experienced tour managers, they ensure reliable and secure travel experiences. Additionally, Gate 1 Travel provides a 24/7 emergency assistance hotline and adheres to all local COVID-19 guidelines for the health and safety of its customers.

Can I customize my travel itinerary with Gate 1 Travel?

Gate 1 Travel allows you to personalize your travel itinerary. You have the freedom to add or remove destinations and activities and choose accommodations, and transportation options. Keep in mind that customization may involve additional fees and planning time.

Gate 1 Travel stands out for its exceptional services , unique experiences, and customer support. With a rich history and growth, Gate 1 Travel has become a trusted name in the travel industry. Planning your vacation with Gate 1 Travel is made easy with a step-by-step guide to booking a tour and tips for choosing the right one. Once you embark on a Gate 1 tour, you can expect unforgettable experiences and a well-organized itinerary.

The advantage of traveling with Gate 1 in a group is the size and composition of the travel groups, which allows for a more immersive experience. And with customer support readily available, any queries or concerns can be addressed promptly. Gate 1 Travel offers promotions and deals to maximize savings, making it a worthy choice for your next adventure. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the world with Gate 1 Travel!

Ferona Jose is a passionate travel writer and blogger at Travelistia. She has traveled throughout Europe, Asia and the Americas. Her writing focuses on cheap travel destinations, travel experiences, cultural insights, and travel hacks.

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A very disappointing and demeaning tour - GATE 1 TRAVEL

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Gate 1 offers the best hotels to stay in, unfortunately some of the guides they use are rude and... read more

I will give the travel part of the tour a 4 star and the shopping and meal a 1 star. We go with... read more

A very disappointing and demeaning tour

My husband and I took two recent trips with Gate 1 Travel, one to Iceland in January and one to Spain and Portugal from March 15 to 25,2023. The first one, to Iceland, was a wonderful experience in every way. The second, to Spain and Portugal, was an awful experience filled with anxiety and needless difficulties. What was the difference between the two trips? It was the tour managers. Our experience with Nico in Spain and Portugal has convinced us that we cannot count on Gate 1 for any future travel. Here’s an outline of why. —I have a condition in which I experience extreme nausea sitting in the middle or back of buses. I actually throw up in such situations. This condition is verified by doctors. —When traveling to Iceland, our tour manager there accommodated my request to sit at the front of the bus throughout the tour. Another member of our group had similar needs and was also accommodated. This accommodation caused no trouble among the rest of the members of our group. —Because I could see that Gate 1’s written policy states that tour members must rotate in their seats and there are no exceptions to this policy, before our next trip (to Spain and Portugal) I contacted Gate 1 multiple times to check whether accommodations could be made for me to sit in front of the bus. I was told that such decisions are at the discretion of the tour manager, and I understood this to mean that accommodations are possible even if not guaranteed. My further inquiries about this were unanswered. —At the beginning of our tour in Spain and Portugal, I told Nico of my needs and offered to show him a medical certificate I brought with me. He did not want to see the certificate, and he told me that he was instructed by the home office that he could not make exceptions to the seat rotation rule and that his directive was to maintain harmony among the members of the group. If he was indeed told this by the home office, it indicates a contradictory policy in the company because the directive doesn’t match what I was told earlier that tour managers have discretion. —In any case, Nico did exercise discretion and did make an exception for me (apparently contradicting the directive he said he was given) and allowed me to sit in the front seat next to him during much of the tour. But he made sure to tell me that he reported the fact that the tour manager in Iceland had made an accommodation for me. Nico told me that that tour manager would be fired for doing so. This caused me great distress and set the tone for the remainder of the tour. —During the tour, Nico told a tour guide not to answer my questions, saying that I ask too many questions. He told the guide this in Spanish. My husband speaks Spanish and overheard it. On another occasion, Nico told another tour guide, also in Spanish, to be careful what he said because my husband could understand Spanish. The fact that such conversations occurred further damaged our trust. —In Barcelona, Nico said I would not be able to sit in the front seat with him during the trip to the Gaudi Monuments — the most highlighted and popular attraction in the city — because he would need the space so he could do paperwork during the journey. As a result, I could not ride on the bus for that trip and missed out. —At another point, we wanted to take a train to a destination but did not want to do so if it would mean taking all of our luggage. Nico told us that he would be able to keep our large luggage on the bus. Because he told us this, we were willing to book the train, and Nico helped us book it. But just before the train trip, Nico told us that he would not be able to keep our luggage for us after all. Later, we met another group that was also on a Gate 1 tour. The members of that group had taken the train to their destination and all of them were able to leave their luggage on a bus. So there was a contradiction between how Nico handled us and how another tour manager handled a separate group. These are just a few points among several that could be made. I have tried to be brief in my description of what happened, and as a result, the full sense of how unpleasant our experience was may not be completely apparent. But it indeed was. The way Nico dealt with us left us feeling demeaned and relegated to nuisance status.

I would give Gate 1 an excellent rating because of the superior service I received on my recent trip to Thailand. I love that they take care of every detail - all I need to do is relax and enjoy my trip. My tour guide Kit was everything you would want in a guide - funny, informative, thoughtful. She was constantly bringing local treats on to the bus to share with us. The hotels we stayed in were top notch. The cities were visited were all really interesting and showed us different aspects of Thailand. I can't say enough about how great this trip was!

We loved Italy with our tour guide Patricia! However, several weeks before our trip we received a call from Gate1 stating that Delta had cancelled our Jacksonville to Boston leg ( which we had paid more for) and they needed to rebook all of the flights to and from Italy as they cancelled the entire flights. They found us new tickets for an extra 2200 plus we would need to pay an extra 220 dollars for a hotel as we would need to arrive a day early. The Affordable Trip to Italy is no longer affordable. I asked for my money back and was told I could only get 50 percent back. My husband found a flight out of Miami for an extra 450 dollars. We had to drive 6 hours to get there but it was more affordable. We have asked to speak to a supervisor several times but have yet to speak to someone. The agent gave us 50 a piece (credit) because someone closed our request to speak to a supervisor. Just know, you do not own the tickets(even though you paid for trips months before) .

Gate 1 has left me stranded in foreign countries 2 times now without any support or assistance getting a new flight home. This happened in Equador and Africa. I had to find my own new flight snd ride to airport, even though everything was originally booked thru and by Gate 1. You cannot rely on this agency to get you home. Horrible service.

Loved Sri Lanka. The tour was very nice and the staff was some of the best I have experienced. Our guide, Shyam was awesome, very considerate and worked very hard to accommodate so many weird request.. always with a smile. His verbal history of Sri Lanka really helped us understand the nature of their country. I will for sure return for the Northern tour. Great choice of hotels, staff and points of interest. Thank you so much for this experience. Judy

I have been on two Gate1 tours, to Mexico in Aug 2022 and to Egypt in Feb 2023. I thought the Mexico trip was a great value for money, the Egypt trip of average value for money. For both tours, I was very pleased with the destination tour manager and local tour companies. The hotels and motor coaches at least met my expectation for quality and sometimes exceeded expectations. Included meals were okay, neither bad nor in any way exceptional. The biggest disappointment is Gate1's US staff's below average customer service. The US office is consistently bad. They are VERY hard to reach by phone and provide no email address. Their website looks to be 15 years out of date and is useless for resolving issues. If you can reach them by phone, maybe they can help, but it's far from assured. For one of the trips, the one to Egypt, the tour price included R/T flights--both JFK to/from Cairo and two flights internal to Egypt. Gate1 bought group tickets on EgyptAir but failed to enter travelers' frequent flier numbers or arrange for specialty meals, despite having the information on hand. EgyptAir, which also has pretty poor customer service, said all this had to be arranged by Gate1, since these were group ticket and, of course, Gate1 doesn't answer the phone. Had to walk to ticket counter in Cairo and walk in to a ticket office in Aswan to get frequent flier numbers entered and meal choices.

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Recent Reviews

the absolute WORST

THE ABSOLUTE WORST. Dishonest, incompetent, fraudulent. We booked a trip to Europe with them, and it was a mess from start to finish. The flight that we paid extra...

Fantastic Tour! Don't Hesitate, just GO!!!!

Fantastic tour!! I cannot recommend it more highly. Everything was great. We had a good group, our tour director Jose was wonderful and our driver Viktor was great. ...

Tour:   Costa Rica Natural Paradise

Operator Overview

Travelers age

global Company

Trip prices

$4,199 - $4,199

Service level

Tour languages

regional Company

$1,295 - $1,695

• Group Tours

• North America
• South America
• Australia & Pacific
• Middle East & North Africa
• Central America & Caribbean

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About Discovery Tours by Gate 1

About Caravan Tours

Caravan Tours began selling fully escorted tours in 1952. We have been under the same management and ownership ever since. In 1965, Roger Mudd hosted a two hours CBS TV special on Caravan Tours. This TV production took about one month to make and was so successful it inspired the 1968 romantic comedy movie “If it’s Tuesday this must be Belgium.” In the early 50’s the Mayor of Dublin presented Caravan with the Key to Dublin for bringing the first American tour to the city after WWII. Since then Caravan has been recognized as a pioneer in travel.