We have been independent world travelers for many years but now, post-retirement as educators, we are considering the option of travel tours.
We enjoy music, art, culture, beauty, great food and wine and are planning to visit the Dalmatian Coast (not cruising) and are looking into OAT and OU and would really like feedback about these two organizations as we compare them for a trip late Spring. Any input would be welcomed as well as insights regarding booking airlines, planning, etc..
Posted by
L'Occitanie, France
11615 posts
I was under the impression that these were the same company, that OAT was more expensive with smaller groups. No personal experience with either.
Posted by
Phoenix, Arizona
83 posts
If you do a search in the box above for OAT and Odysseys Unlimited, you'll find numerous entries already in the travel forum discussing these two companies, most of which appear positive. There's also a lot on the forum about Road Scholar tours, as well as (here comes the obvious) Rick Steves tours.
Posted by
Pacific Northwest
2909 posts
Which trips in particular?
I’ve traveled once with each company and have another one booked with Odysseys Unlimited.
They’re both good companies. OAT groups are somewhat smaller - max of 16 and OU max is 24.
I’ve looked at both company offerings many many times, and taken trips apart as part of my choosing process.
OU uses consistently nicer hotels. A definite step up.
I think you’d be fine with either company. I will add that I travel most with Road Scholar. And it’s because they have so many offerings and because their deposit is so modest. Road Scholar has the worst of the hotel choices of these 3 companies…sometimes it’s a bit more basic than I like, but the itineraries make up for it.
I would suggest you book your own airfare.
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
24050 posts
Hard to evaluate. Have completed two Odysseys U via a university alumni tour program. Great trips. First class.
Posted by
New England
12104 posts
Odysseys Unlimited offers a higher level of travel. . We have traveled with them twice( Egypt, Japan) and were very satisfied with our travel experiences. Highly recommend them.
Posted by
New England
12104 posts
Friends travel often with OAT and from what they have told us, much less is included in the price. You have to pay extra.