225 Hours Saved: How Going Guided Gives You More

by Jason Brasier | 1 Oct 2024

Ever spent the days pulling out your hair as you research for an upcoming trip? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. A study called ‘Path to Purchase‘ from Expedia Group and Luth Research has shed light on just how much time the average person plans their trip. The results are startling.

According to the study, people spend an average of more than 5 hours a day researching in the 45 days before booking. That includes searching for inspiration on social media, comparing ticket prices, Googling hotels, restaurants, and things to do. Crawling through online blogs, review sites, looking up videos, booking accommodation… all of that takes up a lot of time. More than 225 hours, in fact. That’s where Insight Vacations comes in. You can get those hours back – simply by going guided.

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Planning a DIY vacation can take more than 225 hours of your precious spare time. That’s about the equivalent of a 10-day vacation itself.

When you opt for a guided tour, you’re not just handing over the logistics—you’re reclaiming your time. Picture this: instead of spending hours poring over every detail, from hotel ratings to attraction timings, all of that is done for you. A professional itinerary has already been curated, ensuring that every moment of your trip is maximized for enjoyment and relaxation. No more endless scrolling or second-guessing your choices. Your time is yours again.

By going guided, you save over 225 hours of pre-trip planning. That’s time you can now spend doing what really matters. Let’s be honest: isn’t that what a vacation is supposed to be about?

Cost-effective and stress-free travel

Going guided can actually save you money as well as time. Based on long-standing relationships with hotels, restaurants, and local vendors, Insight are able to negotiate better deals and offer insider prices that simply aren’t available to individual travelers. Also, “hidden fees” like transportation, entrance tickets, and tour guides are bundled into the overall cost, meaning fewer surprise expenses down the line.

Then there’s the stress. With a guided tour, you don’t have to worry about coordinating transportation, navigating unfamiliar cities, or figuring out how to communicate in a foreign language. From the moment you arrive, everything is taken care of by experienced professionals, leaving you free to enjoy every moment.

Group of Insight Vacations guests at a tasting by a large lake and mountains

Access to exclusive experiences

One of the biggest perks of going guided is gaining access to experiences you wouldn’t be able to book—or even think of booking—on your own. Like Insightful Encounters, where you meet with local experts and hear stories that go beyond the usual tourist information. Whether it’s a historian walking you through ancient ruins, an Egyptologist explaining the meaning of a hieroglyphic or a local chef sharing the secrets of a traditional dish, these encounters turn your trip into an unforgettable learning experience.

These moments aren’t just about convenience—they add depth and enrichment to your journey. And because these experiences are exclusive to guided groups, you’re able to see places and meet people most travelers would never even know about.

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The value of local knowledge

And then there’s the real magic: your Travel Directors. These are seasoned experts who live and breathe the destinations they guide you through. Their local knowledge is invaluable. They don’t just point out landmarks, they offer stories, recommendations, and insights that make each location come alive. They also know the shortcuts, hidden gems, and best times to visit popular spots, ensuring that your trip flows seamlessly.

Plus, they’re there to handle the unexpected—whether it’s a sudden change in weather or an impromptu detour to something spectacular. Essentially, they’re your on-the-ground problem-solvers, leaving you free to enjoy your journey without a hitch.

Memories that money can’t buy

Finally, what sets guided travel apart is the intangible: the peace of mind, the camaraderie of fellow travelers, and the unique insights that come from having a professional guide at your side. It’s not just about convenience or savings; it’s about enriching your trip with experiences you’d never have on your own. By going guided, you’re not just saving time and money—you’re gaining access to a richer, deeper travel experience. Those 225 hours are just the start; what you get in return is priceless.

About Jason Brasier

I'm Jay – born in Italy, raised in South London. Having French sisters and Hungarian ancestors, I've always been fascinated with the world and its cultures, and I carry this curiosity into my writing for Insightful. My favourite destinations I've traveled to so far have been Italy, Peru, France and Brazil.

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