My review is from a parent’s perspective after traveling with the Ambassadors of Music (your mileage may vary depending on the chaperones, but most other aspects will be the same or similar).
At the initial meeting the trip is hyped-up to our kids (and adults) but then we learn the price (almost $7000 ea.). It would be helpful to know about the cost up front.
Flight – our group had a very early flight. We had to arrive at the airport a very early three hours ahead! After we arrived in Atlanta we have a 10 HOUR layover until our flight to London. This is the first indication of poor planning. The students are tired before they even arrive in Europe.
Overall –
The tour follows an itinerary set up and scripted by the Voyageurs International. The scripts are so outdated that they refer to using travelers checks. Obviously, they have not been updated in many years. The same exact tour was done by fourteen other groups this summer (one every three days). As a result, there are not many opportunities for unique experiences.
Our group went to London, Paris, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Austria, Venice, and Germany. We saw a lot but everything was very brief. The Thresholds handout makes it seem like you will see much more than is possible given the group itinerary. You could see more on your own as an adult as long as you are willing to pay for your own transportation.
The concerts were very enjoyable and the local people seemed to really enjoy them. Cannot use the restroom on the bus. They have no ability to service it in any of the locations! There is a fair amount of waiting around during the entire trip. Wi-fi is available at all hotels but very spotty at some (Crans-Montana).
If it’s hot outside, it will be hot everywhere bus, hotels, restaurants (most). May want to bring (or purchase) a small folding fan. Bathtubs are all very deep in all hotels. .
No opportunity to go to the hotel to change before show in London!
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