Best Of

I posted the RS tour as a response to the OP. There is no question you get (and pay for) a lot of luxury and services on a Tauck tour compared to RS. We learned to pack light on RS tours as when you are handling your own bags it makes a huge difference. There are no dress up events so that helps. RS tours do not attract a younger age group; quite the opposite. The age demographics are much the same as Tauck; age range 50-80. We had one gent in his 90’s on one tour. In the summer folks tend to bring an occasional college age child or working adult on vacation (usually teachers). We are about to embark on our third Tauck tour with one scheduled in 2025. Yes, you easily get spoiled! Our jury is out on the quality of the guide (TD in Tauck terms) compared to RS. We had really excellent guides with RS. Our first TD on our first Tauck tour was not up to those standards although our second was a gem. Oh, one last thought: no tipping on a RS tour. He pays his folks well and they and the drivers and local guides as well as hotel staff are prohibited from accepting tips. I personally like that better.

I’ve had Odysseys recommendations in general by various well-traveled people.

Yes, I take care of the hotel room attendants, as well as those on the riverboats. On riverboats we typically sit at the same table each meal and get to know the server(s). I discreetly hand them a 'thank you' note with some euros inside at the end of the voyage. In the lounge we typically sit near the pianist and will tip her/him as well as the bartender(s). They all work so hard and are away from their families for such long periods of time.

I was also told by several tour directors that the room attendant in hotels are not tipped by Tauck.

I agree with Mike. At our age we are more than happy to have a tour company that takes care of everything including our luggage. I think RS tours are for younger people. Also, at our age we like a little luxury.