Hi, Im wondering if you could recommend a "Rick Steve's like' Tour organization that goes to South America ...Rick Steve's fashion (or as close to). WE plan to see Brazil and Peru, but don't want to go the Five Star hotel route. Any suggestions? Thanks,
Bryan
Bryan, I don't know if they're "Rick Steves like", but you could have a look at: > http://www.gadventures.com/ > http://www.globusjourneys.ca/Vacation-Packages/Tour-South-America/ > http://www.intrepidtravel.com/ca/south-america > http://www.contiki.com/destinations/south-america (18-35 age group only) You could also try posting this question on the Lonely Planet Thorn Tree message board, as I'm sure you'll get lots of suggestions from a well-travelled group. Happy travels!
Bryan, you might also consider entering this into a search engine, Tripadvisor South American forum. You can then get more specific. Their forums are quite educational, etc.
Check out Southern Explorations (they're based out of Seattle) - their tours look great. They do seem to be geared for an athletic crowd like REI.
http://www.southernexplorations.com/about.htm