Group tours are a great option for many travelers, but they may not suit everyone. Some tourists prefer the freedom to choose their own routes, explore at their own pace, and have a guide who is dedicated solely to their needs.
Travelers seek customized accommodations and services. The global market for personalized travel is expected to reach $447.3 billion by 2030 due to technological advancements. So, it’s not surprising that personalized services are becoming more in demand in Armenia.
As private tours are gaining popularity, choosing the right travel agency is key. This blog will guide tourists on how to choose the best on the market when looking for personalized travel experiences.
Why Armenia?
If you’re still wondering whether a private tour to Armenia is worth it, let us share some compelling reasons to convince you. Armenia is a country where tourists can have various experiences. Maybe this is the reason private tours are popular here.
One tourist may be interested in solo travel where a dedicated guide will accompany him/her talking about the cultural sites. The other case may be a private tour organized for a family that is into bird watching, hiking or extreme sports. In two cases Armenia offers the perfect setting for exclusive, customized itineraries.
Start your journey by exploring Armenia’s rich history and visiting ancient monasteries like Geghard and the UNESCO-listed Etchmiadzin Cathedral. The country is also home to countless churches providing a spiritual experience unlike any other. For nature lovers, there are hiking trails in the mountains of Dilijan and near Lake Sevan. If you’re an adrenaline junkie, you’ll find plenty of extreme activities, such as paragliding over the spectacular landscapes or skiing in Aparan and Tsaghkadzor. Meanwhile, wine enthusiasts can find a perfect private tour of wineries.
Value of Private Tours
Group tours are more budget-friendly but private tours offer more flexibility and personalization. Thus, you have the freedom to plan every detail to fit your budget, preferences, and schedule. This is related to everything from private transportation to accommodation.
For example, a wine enthusiast can arrange a private tour of small family wineries. The route may be different from that of a classic wine tour suggested by a travel agent. Instead of following a group, they can visit exclusive vineyards and enjoy private wine tastings with local sommeliers.
On the other hand, an archaeology lover can choose a tour focused on Armenia’s rich history. Instead of traveling to the popular Garni Temple or the ruins of the Zvartnots Cathedral, a tour may include visits to some excavation sites or museums with a big collection of artifacts. With a flexible schedule, they can focus on lesser-known ruins.
Cons of Private Tours
While there are many benefits, they may not be the best choice for everyone. One of the main cons is the higher cost. For travelers on a tight budget group tours might be more affordable and a better option.
These tours can sometimes lack the social aspect. In a group setting, travelers have the opportunity to meet new people and share experiences. For solo travelers or those seeking a more social atmosphere, private tours can feel too isolated.
Sometimes private tours (especially if the tour is organized not for the first timers) require more planning and coordination in advance. Travelers need to communicate their preferences and work closely with the tour provider to ensure their expectations are met. This process can be time-consuming and require more effort compared to simply booking a group tour.
Challenges While Organizing a Private Tour
Organizing private tours in Armenia comes with several challenges that require expertise and strong local knowledge. Let’s start with logistics. Armenia has some remote and hard-to-reach locations with limited infrastructure, which can make organizing transportation tricky. Of course, there can be unexpected disruptions like weather changes or road closures. This requires quick solutions to avoid delays.
A recent challenge arose when a traveler contacted Levon Travel needing a 4-day tour, starting the very next day. A tourist had his flight booked for the other day but did not have any arrangements with local tour guides. Although this was a tight timeline, the team managed to coordinate all logistics, including transportation, and guide services, organizing the entire tour in less than 24 hours. The result was having a foreign couple fell in love with Armenia thanks to the ability to tackle last-minute challenges.
Another issue is navigating cultural nuances is essential. Agencies with local expertise like Levon Travel can help overcome such issues. While private tours are a premium service, clients often seek value for their investment. Agencies must balance high-end experiences with cost-effective solutions.
Why to Book a Private Tour with Levon Travel?
Levon Travel, a premier travel agency based in Yerevan, Armenia, has been providing exceptional tours since 1991. The agency specializes in creating personalized travel experiences tailored to the needs and desires of each traveler. The mission is to provide guests with a genuine and authentic experience.
Besides, Levon Travel stands out for its deep knowledge of Armenia. The team ensures that every guest feels like a VIP, regardless of their budget or travel purpose. The agency’s motto is simple: each guest deserves an individual approach, personalized service, and the best possible experience.
The company’s support system ensures that guests are well taken care of, with local guides, interpreters and backstage staff at every stage.