Grand European Travel

Grand European Travel (GET), a travel agency based in Tigard, Oregon, presents a mixed bag of experiences for potential customers. While some travelers report dream trips with exceptional service, others recount significant frustrations, particularly concerning the pace of tours and customer service issues. Understanding both sides of the story is crucial for anyone considering their vacation packages.

A significant point to understand from the outset is the relationship between Grand European Travel and Trafalgar, a major global tour operator. GET frequently acts as a seller for Trafalgar tours. This means that while you might book through GET, the on-the-ground experience—the buses, the guides, the itinerary execution—is often managed by Trafalgar. This partnership is a key factor in many customer experiences, both positive and negative. Some travelers have noted that they used GET to receive an AARP discount on a Trafalgar tour, indicating a primary function as a booking agent.

The Positive Experiences

Many clients have had positive things to say about their journeys arranged through Grand European Travel. A recurring theme in favorable reviews is the quality and knowledge of the tour guides. Travelers often describe their guides as helpful, professional, and instrumental in making the trip enjoyable and informative. For many, this level of expertise elevates the travel experience beyond what they could achieve with independent travel planning.

The convenience of having all logistics handled is another frequently praised aspect. Services like luggage handling, transportation between cities, and well-located hotels are often highlighted as major benefits. Customers who have taken multiple trips with the company appreciate the seamless nature of the arrangements, allowing them to focus on the destinations without the stress of coordination. One reviewer mentioned that they have traveled with GET twice and have more trips planned, specifically praising their responsiveness and the excellent itineraries. For those seeking a hassle-free way to see multiple destinations, these guided bus tours can be an attractive option.

Areas of Concern

Despite the positive feedback, a considerable number of customers have voiced serious complaints. One of the most common criticisms revolves around the fast-paced nature of the itineraries. A review vividly described the experience as a "Drive By Shooting," where travelers are rushed from one location to the next with insufficient time to genuinely appreciate the sights. Examples cited include having only 45 minutes at Stonehenge after a long bus ride and missing key attractions like the Greenwich Observatory due to tight scheduling. This suggests that these European tours may be better suited for travelers who want a quick overview of many places rather than an in-depth visit to a few.

Customer service and post-booking support appear to be significant pain points. Several reviews detail immense difficulty in obtaining refunds after trip cancellations. One traveler mentioned a six-month battle to get their money back after a flight cancellation caused them to miss their tour, despite having purchased travel insurance. Another review recounted a two-month delay in receiving a refund after the company canceled their tour. These instances raise concerns about the company's handling of unforeseen circumstances and the effectiveness of the travel insurance they offer.

The performance of individual travel consultants has also been a source of frustration. One detailed account described an agent who was unresponsive, inexperienced, and allegedly overcharged for hotel stays compared to publicly available rates. This highlights a potential inconsistency in the quality of service one might receive during the booking process. Furthermore, the constant upselling of expensive optional tours by the parent company, Trafalgar, was a point of contention, with some travelers feeling there was little to do on certain days without purchasing these add-ons.

What to Consider Before Booking

Based on customer feedback, here are some key considerations for potential clients of this travel agency:

• Tour Pacing: Be realistic about the pace. If you prefer to spend significant time at each location, a fast-paced multi-city tour might not be the right fit. Scrutinize the itinerary to understand how much time is allocated for travel versus sightseeing.
• The Trafalgar Connection: Understand that you are likely booking a Trafalgar tour. It's wise to research reviews for Trafalgar itself, as they will be the ultimate service provider.
• Customer Service: The experiences with customer service agents are varied. It may be beneficial to communicate your expectations clearly and ensure you have a responsive and helpful agent. If you encounter issues, be prepared to be persistent.
• Optional Excursions: Factor in the cost of optional excursions. Reviews suggest that these can add a substantial amount to the overall cost of the trip, and the base itinerary might feel sparse without them.
• Travel Insurance: Read the fine print of any travel insurance policy offered. Customer experiences suggest that getting a refund, even in seemingly clear-cut cases like flight cancellations due to airport shutdowns, can be a challenging process.

In conclusion, Grand European Travel offers the convenience of packaged travel, which many find appealing. The expertise of the on-the-ground tour directors is often a high point. However, potential customers must be wary of the potential downsides, including rushed itineraries that prioritize quantity of sights over quality of experience, inconsistent customer service, and difficulties with refunds and insurance claims. As with any major travel purchase, thorough research and a clear understanding of what is being offered are essential before making a commitment.