Since we've drifted off topic, here's another tangent regarding TDs:
At the end of my last two tours (out of 16), the final dinner seemed like just another dinner (after the drinks and hors d'oeuvres). A bunch of tables with guests, and the TD off in a corner at his/her own table, busy with the laptop, preparing for the next tour, and not saying a word. In tours previous to those, it was more of an interactive event between guests and TDs, talking about the tour, etc.
I wonder if this is a trend (not unlike the fewer included meals and lack of included major sites in the last few years) or just the way my last two TDs style? They were both very good and with Tauck for many years.
BKMD - that has not been our experience for at least the last three tours, including this one. The TDs joined the groups for the farewell dinners. I do understand, however, that the TDs often need to get to work on the next tour.
The tour director has mingled with clients during the farewell reception, but I have never seen them mingle with us during the farewell dinners.
We use this time to say our goodbyes to those we have connected with and to enjoy the often opulent setting and entertainment. The directors need their own free time to finalize paperwork and/or prepare for their next tour. I always respect their wish to have some privacy.
I asked once why TDs don't join dinners and was told people complained that they were playing favorites, so that put a stop to it. I think they need time on their own to regroup and they do have lots of paperwork to do.
They have rarely joined dinners since we started traveling with Tauck in 2003. They have lots of things to plan for the following days and do things like sort out their laundry and some make time to work out.
These days, there ares so many dinners not included that it’s hardly relevant.
Comments
Since we've drifted off topic, here's another tangent regarding TDs:
At the end of my last two tours (out of 16), the final dinner seemed like just another dinner (after the drinks and hors d'oeuvres). A bunch of tables with guests, and the TD off in a corner at his/her own table, busy with the laptop, preparing for the next tour, and not saying a word. In tours previous to those, it was more of an interactive event between guests and TDs, talking about the tour, etc.
I wonder if this is a trend (not unlike the fewer included meals and lack of included major sites in the last few years) or just the way my last two TDs style? They were both very good and with Tauck for many years.
BKMD - that has not been our experience for at least the last three tours, including this one. The TDs joined the groups for the farewell dinners. I do understand, however, that the TDs often need to get to work on the next tour.
The tour director has mingled with clients during the farewell reception, but I have never seen them mingle with us during the farewell dinners.
We use this time to say our goodbyes to those we have connected with and to enjoy the often opulent setting and entertainment. The directors need their own free time to finalize paperwork and/or prepare for their next tour. I always respect their wish to have some privacy.
We've only twice had a TD that joined us for a meal. Once at the farewell in Ireland and after the fact I kind of wished she hadn't.
The second time was during covid when our tour group was 9 guests. Very different time and she was a pleasure to be with.
I asked once why TDs don't join dinners and was told people complained that they were playing favorites, so that put a stop to it. I think they need time on their own to regroup and they do have lots of paperwork to do.
They have rarely joined dinners since we started traveling with Tauck in 2003. They have lots of things to plan for the following days and do things like sort out their laundry and some make time to work out.
These days, there ares so many dinners not included that it’s hardly relevant.