Pearls Of Travel Wisdom

Costco Travel Insurance: Everything You Need to Know

Costco Travel Phone Number: How to Contact Customer Service for Assistance

Costco Travel Phone Number: How to Contact Customer Service for Assistance

Costco Travel Deals: How to Save Big on Your Next Vacation

Costco Travel Deals: How to Save Big on Your Next Vacation

Costco Travel Packages: Affordable Vacation Options for Budget-Conscious Travelers

Costco Travel Packages: Affordable Vacation Options for Budget-Conscious Travelers

Is Gate 1 Travel Legit? A Comprehensive Review of the Popular Tour Company

Is Gate 1 Travel Legit? A Comprehensive Review of the Popular Tour Company

Gate 1 Travel Address: Where to Find the Company’s Headquarters

Gate 1 Travel Address: Where to Find the Company’s Headquarters

Gate 1 Travel Customer Service: How to Get Help and Support

Gate 1 Travel Customer Service: How to Get Help and Support

gate 1 travel independent tours

Gate 1 Travel is a tour company that offers various travel packages to destinations around the world. However, some people may be skeptical about the legitimacy of the company and wonder if it is a scam. The answer to this question is not straightforward, as there are both positive and negative reviews of the company online.

On the positive side, many customers have had enjoyable experiences with Gate 1 Travel and have praised the company for its affordable prices, knowledgeable tour guides, and well-planned itineraries. Some customers have even gone on multiple trips with the company and have recommended it to others.

On the negative side, there are also customers who have had negative experiences with Gate 1 Travel, such as canceled trips, poor accommodations, and unresponsive customer service. These negative reviews may cause some people to question the legitimacy of the company and whether it is worth booking a trip with them.

Overall, whether or not Gate 1 Travel is legit depends on individual experiences and opinions. It is important to do thorough research and read reviews before booking a trip with any tour company to ensure a positive and enjoyable experience.

Overview of Gate 1 Travel

Table of Contents

Gate 1 Travel is a travel agency that provides escorted tours, independent vacations, and customized travel packages to various destinations around the world. The company was founded in 1981 by Dan and Harriet Peltier and is headquartered in Fort Washington, Pennsylvania.

History and Background

Gate 1 Travel started as a small family-owned company and has grown to become a leading provider of travel services. The company’s founders, Dan and Harriet Peltier, were avid travelers who wanted to share their passion for travel with others. They started by offering tours to Israel and Egypt and gradually expanded to other destinations in Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas.

Over the years, Gate 1 Travel has received numerous awards and recognition for its services, including being named “Best Tour Operator” by Travel Weekly and “Best Value for Money” by TravelAge West. The company has also received positive reviews from customers on various online platforms.

Services Offered

Gate 1 Travel offers a variety of travel services, including escorted tours, independent vacations, river cruises, and customized travel packages. The company’s escorted tours are led by experienced tour managers and include transportation, accommodations, sightseeing, and some meals. Independent vacations allow travelers to create their own itinerary and travel at their own pace. River cruises offer a unique way to explore destinations along the world’s major waterways. Customized travel packages allow travelers to tailor their trip to their specific needs and preferences.

Gate 1 Travel is known for its affordable prices and value for money. The company’s tours and packages often include more than what competitors offer at a similar price point. However, it is important to note that some optional excursions and activities may come at an additional cost.

Overall, Gate 1 Travel is a legitimate travel agency that has been providing quality travel services for over 40 years. The company’s history, awards, and positive reviews from customers attest to its credibility and reliability.

Legitimacy Indicators

When considering whether Gate 1 Travel is a legitimate travel company, there are several factors to take into account. Here are some of the key indicators that can help determine the legitimacy of the company.

Business Accreditation

One of the most important indicators of legitimacy for any business is accreditation from a reputable organization. Gate 1 Travel is accredited by the Better Business Bureau (BBB), which is a well-respected organization that rates businesses based on their trustworthiness and customer service. The company has an A+ rating from the BBB, which is the highest possible rating.

Customer Reviews and Testimonials

Another important factor to consider when evaluating the legitimacy of Gate 1 Travel is customer reviews and testimonials. The company has a 4.5-star rating on Trustpilot, which is a popular review site for travel companies. Many customers praise the company for its excellent customer service, knowledgeable tour guides, and well-planned itineraries.

Industry Partnerships and Recognition

Gate 1 Travel has also received recognition from several industry organizations, which is another indicator of its legitimacy. The company is a member of the United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA), which is a trade association that represents the travel industry. Gate 1 Travel is also a member of the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA), which is another respected organization that promotes ethical business practices in the travel industry.

In conclusion, based on the above factors, Gate 1 Travel appears to be a legitimate travel company that provides high-quality tours and excellent customer service.

Consumer Protection

Gate 1 Travel offers various consumer protection policies to ensure that their customers feel secure and protected while booking and traveling. The company has a Travel Assurance Policy that covers unexpected events that might happen before or during the trip. The policy includes coverage for trip cancellation, interruption, and delays, as well as emergency medical and dental expenses, lost or delayed luggage, and more. Customers are advised to review the policy carefully before purchasing to understand the coverage and limitations.

Travel Assurance Policies

Gate 1 Travel’s Travel Assurance Policies are designed to provide peace of mind to customers who book their trips with the company. The policies cover a range of unexpected events that might occur before or during the trip, including trip cancellation, interruption, and delays, as well as emergency medical and dental expenses, lost or delayed luggage, and more. Customers are advised to review the policy carefully before purchasing to understand the coverage and limitations.

Customer Support and Assistance

Gate 1 Travel provides its customers with customer support and assistance throughout the booking process and during the trip. The company has a dedicated customer support team that is available to answer any questions or concerns that customers might have. Customers can contact the company via phone or email, and the company promises to respond to all inquiries within 24 hours.

In addition, Gate 1 Travel provides customers with a 24/7 emergency hotline that they can call in case of an emergency during the trip. The company also has local representatives in each destination who can assist customers with any issues or concerns that might arise during the trip.

Overall, Gate 1 Travel seems to take consumer protection seriously and provides its customers with various policies and support options to ensure that they feel secure and protected while booking and traveling.

Booking Process and User Experience

Website navigation and accessibility.

Gate 1 Travel’s website is user-friendly and easy to navigate. The site is well-organized, and users can easily find information on destinations, itineraries, and prices. The website is accessible and can be viewed on various devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops.

The website provides detailed information on each itinerary, including the duration of the trip, the cities to be visited, and the activities included. Users can also view photos of the destinations and read reviews from previous travelers. The website also has a search function that allows users to filter their search results based on their preferences.

Payment and Reservation System

Gate 1 Travel’s payment and reservation system is secure and straightforward. Users can make payments using various methods such as credit cards, PayPal, and bank transfers. The website also provides users with a clear breakdown of the cost of the trip, including any additional fees and charges.

The reservation process is easy and can be completed online. Users can select their preferred itinerary, enter their personal details, and make a payment. Once the reservation is confirmed, users receive a confirmation email with all the necessary details about their trip.

In conclusion, Gate 1 Travel’s website is user-friendly and accessible, and the payment and reservation system is secure and straightforward. Users can easily navigate the website, find information on destinations and itineraries, and make reservations with ease.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are customers saying about gate 1 travel on review platforms like tripadvisor and yelp.

Customers have given mixed reviews about Gate 1 Travel on review platforms like Tripadvisor and Yelp. While some customers have praised their tours for being well-organized and affordable, others have criticized the company for poor customer service and subpar accommodations. It is important to note that reviews are subjective and may vary based on individual experiences.

How does Gate 1 Travel compare to other companies like Trafalgar in terms of quality and service?

Gate 1 Travel is a budget travel company that offers affordable tours to various destinations around the world. While their tours may not offer the same level of luxury and amenities as other companies like Trafalgar, they do offer competitive prices and a wide range of destinations to choose from.

Can current or past customers share their experiences with Gate 1 Travel on forums like Reddit?

Yes, current or past customers can share their experiences with Gate 1 Travel on forums like Reddit. Some customers have shared positive experiences, while others have shared negative experiences. It is important to keep in mind that experiences may vary based on individual preferences and expectations.

What is the Better Business Bureau rating for Gate 1 Travel, and what does it indicate?

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) gives Gate 1 Travel an A+ rating, indicating that the company has a good business standing and has responded to customer complaints in a timely and satisfactory manner. However, it is important to note that BBB ratings do not necessarily reflect the quality of a company’s products or services.

Are there any special deals or promotions that Gate 1 Travel is offering for their tours?

Gate 1 Travel offers various special deals and promotions for their tours, including early booking discounts, last-minute deals, and referral rewards. Customers can check their website or contact their customer service for more information on current promotions.

Who is the current owner of Gate 1 Travel, and what is the company’s business standing?

Gate 1 Travel is owned by the founders, Dan and Irina Pekowsky. The company has been in business since 1981 and has grown to become one of the largest budget travel companies in the world. Gate 1 Travel has received various awards and recognitions for their affordable tours and customer service.

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Gate 1 travel vs go ahead tours.

Traveling is one of the best ways to broaden your horizons and create lifelong memories. However, planning a trip can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to choosing a tour company. Two popular tour companies that offer travel packages around the world are Gate 1 Travel and Go Ahead Tours. In this article, we will compare the two companies to help you make an informed decision on which one is better suited for your travel needs.

Overview of Gate 1 Travel

Gate 1 Travel

Gate 1 Travel is a tour company that was founded in 1981 and has since grown to offer travel packages to over 100 destinations worldwide. The company is known for offering affordable yet quality travel packages that include airfare, accommodations, and guided tours. Gate 1 Travel caters to a wide range of travelers, from solo travelers to families and groups.

Overview of Go Ahead Tours

Go Ahead Tours

Go Ahead Tours is a tour company that was founded in 1990 and is a part of EF Education First, an international education company. The company offers tours to over 100 destinations worldwide and is known for its small group tours, which typically have around 10-15 travelers. Go Ahead Tours caters to a wide variety of travelers, from solo adventurers to multi-generational families.

Travel Packages

Travel Packages

Both Gate 1 Travel and Go Ahead Tours offer travel packages that include airfare, accommodations, and guided tours. However, the two companies differ in the types of travel packages they offer.

Gate 1 Travel offers a wide variety of travel packages, including escorted tours, independent vacations, river cruises, and small group tours. The company also offers customizable packages, allowing travelers to create their own itinerary.

Go Ahead Tours, on the other hand, specializes in small group tours. The company offers three types of tours: classic tours, active tours, and discovery tours. Classic tours are the most popular and typically include cultural sightseeing, while active tours are geared towards more active travelers and include hiking and biking. Discovery tours are designed for travelers who want to immerse themselves in the local culture and include experiences such as cooking classes and wine tastings.

Price Comparison

Price Comparison

When it comes to pricing, both Gate 1 Travel and Go Ahead Tours offer affordable travel packages. However, there are some differences in the pricing structure between the two companies.

Gate 1 Travel is known for offering budget-friendly travel packages, with prices starting at around $500 per person. The company also offers frequent sales and discounts, making their packages even more affordable. However, some travelers have reported that the quality of accommodations and tours can be hit or miss.

Go Ahead Tours is slightly more expensive than Gate 1 Travel, with prices starting at around $900 per person. However, the company offers more exclusive and unique experiences, such as staying in a castle or taking a hot air balloon ride. The quality of accommodations and tours is generally higher than Gate 1 Travel, but travelers should expect to pay more for these upgrades.

Customer Service

Customer Service

Customer service is an important factor to consider when choosing a tour company. Both Gate 1 Travel and Go Ahead Tours have generally positive reviews when it comes to customer service.

Gate 1 Travel has a 24/7 customer service line, which is a great convenience for travelers. The company also has a reputation for being responsive to customer complaints and offering refunds or discounts when necessary.

Go Ahead Tours also has a responsive customer service team, which is available via phone or email. The company also offers a mobile app that allows travelers to access their itineraries and communicate with their tour director while on the go.

Destinations

Destinations

Both Gate 1 Travel and Go Ahead Tours offer travel packages to a wide variety of destinations around the world. However, the two companies differ in the types of destinations they offer.

Gate 1 Travel offers travel packages to over 100 destinations worldwide, including Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas. The company is known for offering trips to off-the-beaten-path destinations, such as Uzbekistan and Myanmar.

Go Ahead Tours also offers travel packages to over 100 destinations worldwide, but the focus is more on popular tourist destinations, such as Italy and France. However, the company does offer some unique experiences, such as a tour of Iceland’s glaciers or a trip to Morocco’s Sahara Desert.

Both Gate 1 Travel and Go Ahead Tours are reputable tour companies that offer quality travel packages at affordable prices. The decision on which one to choose ultimately comes down to personal preferences and travel needs.

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly tour company that offers a wide variety of travel packages and customizable itineraries, then Gate 1 Travel may be the better option for you. However, if you’re willing to pay a bit more for unique experiences and higher quality accommodations, then Go Ahead Tours may be the better option.

Regardless of which tour company you choose, it’s important to do your research and read reviews from other travelers before making a decision. With the right tour company, you can have a stress-free and unforgettable travel experience.

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Gate 1 Travel: Your Ultimate Guide

Gate 1 Travel: Your Ultimate Guide

Are you planning a vacation but overwhelmed by the countless options to choose from? Look no further than Gate 1 Travel. In this ultimate guide, we cover everything you need to know about Gate 1 Travel.

From understanding the basics and services offered to how to plan your trip and what to expect on a tour, we’ve got you covered. We’ll also dive into customer support, promotions and deals, group travel advantages, and evaluating customer reviews.

Additionally, we’ll prepare you for your trip with health and safety protocols and packing tips. Discover what makes Gate 1 Travel stand out from other tour companies and find out if it’s worth it for your next adventure !

Table of Contents

1. Understanding the Basics of Gate 1 Travel

Basics of Gate 1 Travel

Gate 1 Travel, a leading provider of independent vacations and European river cruises, offers customized itineraries to discover the beauty of Ecuador.

With a wide range of tours, including options for Fort Washington and Discovery Tours, Gate 1 Travel caters to all types of travel enthusiasts.

Experience hassle-free travel with their expertly planned itineraries, whether you’re a solo traveler or part of a group. Gate 1 Travel ensures a memorable vacation filled with adventure and stunning destinations.

What is Gate 1 Travel?

Gate 1 Travel

Gate 1 Travel is a renowned travel company specializing in guided tours and vacation packages. With an extensive range of destinations and curated experiences, they provide exceptional customer service.

Embark on unforgettable adventures and let Gate 1 Travel handle all the details of your dream vacation.

2. The History and Growth of Gate 1 Travel

History and Growth of Gate 1 Travel

Gate 1 Travel has come a long way since its inception, growing from a small venture into a global leader in the travel industry. Over the years, Gate 1 Travel has expanded its offerings to cater to the ever-changing needs of travelers. Its commitment to excellence has been the driving force behind its growth and success.

Gate 1 Travel has built a reputation for delivering exceptional travel experiences, and its history is filled with remarkable milestones and achievements.

3. Services offered by Gate 1 Travel

Services offered by Gate 1 Travel

Gate 1 Travel provides a wide selection of tours, including European river cruises and independent vacations. Their itineraries are designed to offer immersive cultural experiences, catering to diverse travel interests. With personalized services and expert guidance, Gate 1 Travel ensures convenience and an unforgettable journey.

Whether you’re on a budget or looking for a luxurious experience, Gate 1 Travel offers various tour options to suit your preferences. Discover the world with Gate 1 Travel and create memories that will last a lifetime.

4. Overview of Gate 1 Tours

Overview of Gate 1 Tours

Gate 1 Tours offers comprehensive itineraries that encompass popular attractions and hidden gems. Immerse yourself in local culture and traditions through unique experiences. With Gate 1 Tours, you’ll enjoy a balance of guided sightseeing and free time for independent exploration.

Explore iconic landmarks as well as off-the-beaten-path destinations. Gate 1 Tours ensures a seamless travel experience with carefully planned logistics. Discover the world with Gate 1 Tours and make unforgettable memories.

5. Special Features of Gate 1 Tours

Special Features of Gate 1 Tours

Gate 1 Tours stands out for its special features that enhance your travel experience. With expertly guided experiences led by knowledgeable and professional tour guides, you can be assured of a rich and informative journey.

Gate 1 Tours also offers the convenience of included meals, accommodations, and transportation, ensuring a hassle-free trip. Immerse yourself in local culture through interactions with locals, and savor authentic cuisine and traditional performances.

The flexibility of optional excursions and activities allows you to customize your trip and make it truly unforgettable.

6. How to Plan Your Vacation with Gate 1 Travel

gate 1 travel independent tours

Follow our step-by-step guide to booking a tour with Gate 1 Travel. Get tips on choosing the right Gate 1 Tour that aligns with your interests and preferences.

Discover how Gate 1 Travel makes vacation planning easy and stress-free. Find out how to customize your itinerary and add special touches to your Gate 1 Travel experience.

Explore different options for accommodations and transportation when planning with Gate 1 Travel.

7. Step-by-step Guide to Booking a Tour

Step-by-step Guide to Booking a Tour

To book a tour with Gate 1 Travel, start by exploring their website for various tour options and destinations. Once you’ve found your preferred tour and departure date, follow the booking process on their website to secure your reservation.

Before finalizing your booking, review the tour details and make any necessary adjustments. Once everything is in order, complete the payment process and receive confirmation of your tour booking. With this step-by-step guide, booking a tour with Gate 1 Travel is simple and hassle-free.

8. Tips for Choosing the Right Gate 1 Tour

Tips for Choosing the Right Gate 1 Tour

Consider your travel preferences, interests, and desired destinations when selecting a Gate 1 Tour. Gain insights from reviews and testimonials of previous travelers to make an informed decision. Seek personalized recommendations and advice from Gate 1 Travel’s customer service team.

Take into account factors such as duration, inclusions, and optional activities to ensure the tour aligns with your preferences. Ensure that the itinerary of your chosen Gate 1 Tour matches your desired travel experience.

9. Unpacking the Gate 1 Travel Experience

Unpacking the Gate 1 Travel Experience

Discover the unique aspects that set Gate 1 Travel apart from other providers. Prioritizing customer satisfaction, they create unforgettable memories. Experience their convenience, reliability, and professionalism throughout your journey.

Gain insights into the attention to detail and meticulous planning behind every tour. Unpack the value and benefits of choosing Gate 1 Travel for your next vacation.

10. What to Expect on a Gate 1 Tour

What to Expect on a Gate 1 Tour

Embark on an unforgettable journey with Gate 1 Travel and prepare for an experience like no other. Our expert guides will take you to the world’s most iconic destinations, where you’ll immerse yourself in local culture and traditions.

Throughout your tour, enjoy comfortable accommodations and transportation as you create lasting memories with fellow travel enthusiasts. Get ready to explore, learn, and be amazed on a Gate 1 Tour.

11. Unique Experiences Offered by Gate 1 Travel

Unique Experiences Offered by Gate 1 Travel

Embark on breathtaking European river cruises for an unforgettable vacation. Discover Ecuador’s stunning landscapes and wildlife on an adventure tour. Indulge in independent vacations with customizable itineraries.

Experience once-in-a-lifetime discovery tours to hidden gems worldwide. Immerse yourself in Fort Washington’s charm and history with Gate 1 Travel.

12. Overview of Gate 1 Travel Groups

gate 1 travel independent tours

Gate 1 Travel offers a variety of group travel options to cater to every type of traveler. Join like-minded individuals on a group tour for a shared and enriching experience. On these tours, you can enjoy the convenience of traveling with a knowledgeable tour guide who will enhance your journey with valuable insights.

Interacting with fellow travelers along the way allows you to make new friends and create lasting memories. With Gate 1 Travel, you can explore the world in a safe and organized manner.

13. Size and Composition of Travel Groups

Composition of Travel Groups

Gate 1 Travel offers small and intimate travel groups, providing personalized experiences. These groups promote camaraderie and connection, allowing travelers to meet people from different backgrounds and share unique travel stories. While enjoying the flexibility to explore independently, travelers also benefit from the expertise of experienced tour leaders.

With Gate 1 Travel, you can have the best of both worlds – the convenience of group travel and the freedom to create your own unique journey.

14. Advantages of Group Travel with Gate 1

Advantages of Group Travel with Gate 1

Save time and hassle with meticulously planned itineraries and seamless logistics. Gain exclusive access to attractions and experiences not available to individual travelers. Enjoy the convenience of group discounts and special offers. Benefit from the expertise of local guides, who provide valuable insights and insider knowledge.

Create lasting memories with like-minded travelers, forming connections that can extend beyond the trip itself. Traveling in a group with Gate 1 offers a host of advantages, making your journey even more enriching and enjoyable.

15. Gate 1 Travel Promotions and Deals

Travel Promotions and Deals

Discover the best deals and promotions with Gate 1 Travel. Maximize your savings with exclusive discounts and limited-time offers. Take advantage of early booking incentives for the best prices. Stay updated on the latest promotions through Gate 1 Travel’s newsletter. Explore the world without breaking the bank with their budget-friendly options.

Traveling with Gate 1 Travel allows you to experience more while spending less. Start planning your next adventure with their unbeatable promotions and deals.

How to Find the Best Deals?

How to Find the Best Deals

To find the best deals with Gate 1 Travel, sign up for their newsletter to receive exclusive promotions. Stay flexible with your travel dates to take advantage of last-minute discounts. Check their website regularly for flash sales and limited-time offers.

Follow Gate 1 Travel on social media for real-time updates on deals and promotions. And don’t forget to consult with their travel specialists for personalized recommendations and insider tips. With these strategies, you can make the most of your travel budget.

16. Maximizing Savings with Gate 1 Travel

Maximizing Savings with Gate 1 Travel

Combine multiple trips for additional savings and discounts. Take advantage of early bird booking discounts for the best prices. Consider traveling during shoulder or off-peak seasons for lower rates. Opt for a land-only package to save on airfare. Explore alternative destinations for unique experiences at a lower cost. Gate 1 Travel offers various ways to maximize your savings and make the most of your travel budget.

17. Customer Support at Gate 1 Travel

Customer Support at Gate 1 Travel

Experience exceptional customer support with Gate 1 Travel. Contact Gate 1 Travel’s dedicated customer service team for timely responses to your inquiries and concerns. Enjoy peace of mind knowing that help is just a phone call away. Receive personalized recommendations and travel advice from knowledgeable experts. At Gate 1 Travel, we prioritize providing the best customer support experience to ensure that your travel journey is smooth and hassle-free.

18. Contacting Gate 1 Travel Customer Service

Contacting Gate 1 Travel Customer Service

Need assistance with booking, itinerary changes, or any travel-related questions? Reach out to Gate 1 Travel’s customer service team through phone, email, or live chat. Their friendly staff ensures prompt and helpful responses, reflecting their commitment to excellent customer support.

You can easily find the contact information on Gate 1 Travel’s website, making it convenient to connect with them whenever you need assistance. Experience the peace of mind of knowing that help is just a call or click away.

19. Navigating Cancellation Policies

gate 1 travel independent tours

Before booking your trip with Gate 1 Travel, it’s important to understand their cancellation policy. Familiarize yourself with any specific requirements or deadlines for canceling, and be aware of potential fees or penalties associated with cancellations. It’s also a good idea to check if your travel insurance covers cancellations due to unexpected events.

Gate 1 Travel offers flexible booking options, so consider these when making your decision. By navigating the cancellation policies effectively, you can have peace of mind when planning your trip.

Is Gate 1 Travel Worth It?

Is Gate 1 Travel Worth It?

Gate 1 Travel is definitely worth it. They offer a wide range of destinations and itineraries, making it easy to find the perfect vacation for you.

With affordable options for independent travel, positive customer reviews, and a good reputation in the industry, Gate 1 Travel is a reliable choice. Their European river cruises and tours to Ecuador also provide unique and memorable experiences.

20. Evaluating Customer Reviews

Evaluating Customer Reviews

When considering travel experiences with Gate 1 Travel, it’s important to read customer reviews for valuable insights. Look for recurring themes and patterns in these reviews.

Pay attention to comments on the quality of accommodations, guides, and transportation. It’s essential to consider both positive and negative reviews to obtain a balanced perspective. Customer reviews should be used as one of the factors in your decision-making process. By evaluating these reviews, you can make an informed choice about your travel plans.

21. Comparing Gate 1 Travel with Other Tour Companies

When comparing Gate 1 Travel with other tour companies, it’s important to do your research. Consider the destinations and itineraries offered by each company, as well as their reputation and customer reviews. Additionally, compare the level of service and inclusions provided by different companies.

Gate 1 Travel may have unique features or benefits that set them apart. By comparing all these factors, you can make an informed decision on which tour company best suits your travel needs.

22. Preparing For Your Trip with Gate 1 Travel

Before embarking on your journey with Gate 1 Travel, it’s essential to make thorough preparations. Familiarize yourself with the specific itinerary and destinations of your tour to ensure you don’t miss out on any highlights. Prioritize checking the weather conditions during your travel dates to pack appropriate clothing and be prepared for any climate changes.

Additionally, review the health and safety protocols provided by Gate 1 Travel to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Don’t forget to ensure you have all the necessary travel documents, including passports and visas. Lastly, follow any pre-trip guidelines or recommendations provided by Gate 1 Travel for a seamless travel experience.

23. Health and Safety Protocols on Gate 1 Tours

At Gate 1 Travel, the health and safety of our travelers is our top priority. We have implemented enhanced cleaning and sanitization measures on all our tours to ensure a safe environment for everyone.

Additionally, we closely follow local guidelines and regulations regarding COVID-19 protocols. Travelers may be required to adhere to social distancing guidelines during the tour to maintain a safe distance from others. Rest assured, we provide regular updates and information regarding any specific health requirements to ensure a worry-free travel experience.

24. What to Pack for a Gate 1 Tour

When preparing for your Gate 1 Travel tour, it’s essential to pack strategically. To ensure a comfortable experience, pack suitable clothing and shoes for the activities included in your tour. Consider the weather conditions and pack appropriate layers to stay prepared. Don’t forget essentials like toiletries, medications, and travel adapters.

It’s also wise to bring a daypack or bag for carrying personal items during excursions. Lastly, make sure to check the specific packing guidelines provided by Gate 1 Travel for your tour.

25. What Makes Gate 1 Travel Stand Out?

Gate 1 Travel stands out for its diverse selection of destinations and itineraries, catering to various travel preferences. With affordable pricing and inclusions, they offer excellent value for money. Their reputation for top-notch accommodations and knowledgeable guides ensures a memorable experience. Unique Discovery Tours provide immersive experiences, setting Gate 1 Travel apart in the industry.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of travel packages does gate 1 travel offer.

Gate 1 Travel offers a range of travel packages, including escorted tours, independent vacations, river cruises, and small-group tours. With options like tour managers, local guides, flexibility, unique waterway exploration, and personalized experiences, Gate 1 Travel provides something for every traveler. Additionally, customizable packages are available for those who prefer to design their own itinerary.

Are there any special deals or promotions available through Gate 1 Travel?

Gate 1 Travel frequently offers special deals and promotions on its website. These can range from discounts on specific tours or destinations. By signing up for Gate 1 Travel’s email newsletter, you can gain access to exclusive promotions. Additionally, regularly checking the “Deals” section on their website will help you find the best deals available.

How does Gate 1 Travel ensure the safety and comfort of its customers during travel?

Gate 1 Travel goes above and beyond to prioritize the safety and comfort of its customers during travel. With the help of local experts and experienced tour managers, they ensure reliable and secure travel experiences. Additionally, Gate 1 Travel provides a 24/7 emergency assistance hotline and adheres to all local COVID-19 guidelines for the health and safety of its customers.

Can I customize my travel itinerary with Gate 1 Travel?

Gate 1 Travel allows you to personalize your travel itinerary. You have the freedom to add or remove destinations and activities and choose accommodations, and transportation options. Keep in mind that customization may involve additional fees and planning time.

Gate 1 Travel stands out for its exceptional services , unique experiences, and customer support. With a rich history and growth, Gate 1 Travel has become a trusted name in the travel industry. Planning your vacation with Gate 1 Travel is made easy with a step-by-step guide to booking a tour and tips for choosing the right one. Once you embark on a Gate 1 tour, you can expect unforgettable experiences and a well-organized itinerary.

The advantage of traveling with Gate 1 in a group is the size and composition of the travel groups, which allows for a more immersive experience. And with customer support readily available, any queries or concerns can be addressed promptly. Gate 1 Travel offers promotions and deals to maximize savings, making it a worthy choice for your next adventure. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the world with Gate 1 Travel!

Ferona Jose Travelistia Blogger & Writer

Ferona Jose is a passionate travel writer and blogger at Travelistia. She has traveled throughout Europe, Asia and the Americas. Her writing focuses on cheap travel destinations, travel experiences, cultural insights, and travel hacks.

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Everything went exactly as we had…

Everything went exactly as we had hoped. Very smooth and easy flights and hotel check ins. Hotels were all very nice and met our expectations. All interactions I had with Gate 1 were very quick and helpful.

Date of experience : March 10, 2024

Great Company that delivers

After reading some of the negative reviews on Gate1 Travel, I decided to write. I’m a Canadian and have travelled with several other tour operators to dozens of countries to all continents over the years and kept coming back to Gate 1. This company is of high standing, very professional with excellent customer service. I choose not to major on the nitty-gritty imperfections if any but focus on the important things that allows the tour to run smoothly like tour Manager top-notch communication skills, a good sense of humor, punctuality, and impeccable time management, contingency plans if a situation comes up and arrange all travel related needs and wants from start to finish. I have travelled Gate 1 Classic (38 persons max) and small group discovery (22 persons max). The small group is well worth the money, hands down. We just arrived home this week from Peru with the Amazon extension and will give it 5 stars. We had 4 internal flights and never had to worry about hauling our luggage. Checked luggage are always handled by Gate1, to airport (s) and then to final hotel room destination. This is a great benefit which I love. When possible, our tour Manager will have our boarding passes ahead of time and hotel check in process is a breeze. This can be a nightmare with some other tour operators (speaking from experience- yikes!). Another bonus, Gate 1 offers great hotel accommodations in key locations where we can walk to restaurants/stores/attractions etc. Believe me, this can be a great benefit. For me, it's a treat after some long tour days to come back to quality and nicer accommodations.

Date of experience : April 15, 2024

Never had a problem

I was very surprised to see all the negative feedback. It is true that the Tour Manager makes all the difference on these kind of tours and ours have always been exceptional. We have done Italy, Spain, and SE Asia and have loved everyone of them. We are not old and feeble so maybe that has something to do with it because Gate1 does make sure you see everything on the itinerary and you get your monies worth, which what we like. Our last tour manager was Tim for the SE Asia trip and she was amazing, in fact we are still in touch because we have become friends. From our view they keep getting better and better and we would recommend Gate1 highly. PS ask for TIM if you go to SE Asia won't be disappointed.

Date of experience : April 09, 2024

Reply from Gate 1 Travel

Thank you for taking the time to share your comments. We truly appreciate the feedback and look forward to welcoming you on your next Gate 1 trip!

Gate 1 great but their trip insurance provider is worthless

Great company with well-organized tours but the insurance company they route all Travel Insurance through—Arch Insurance—has terrible reviews and does everything to avoid paying claims. I had a trip scheduled to Mexico in March 2024–and paid for. I had to cancel my Gate 1 trip because I was hospitalized for 11 days after I flew a long airplane flight from Ireland. At the time I booked the Gate 1 trip I was well. I suffered from acute pulmonary embolisms from the long flight. Arch insurance only paid out $300 on my well documented claim. I am a retired lawyer and know how to fill out and document claims. Their denial was flagrant. Getting only $300 back made it a complete waste of time to file the claim. If 11 days with acute pulmonary embolisms preventing me from future plane trips is not justification, what is? Never ever accept Arch. Find another provider.

Date of experience : March 27, 2024

Thank you for sharing your comments. We regret that your experience did not meet your expectations. So that one of our representatives can provide additional assistance and try to make this right for you, please submit an inquiry here: https://www.gate1travel.com/contactus

After reading all the negative reviews…

After reading all the negative reviews I decide to not go ahead and confirm the Baltic trip I had hoped to do with Gate 1 Travel. No way do I want to get stuck someplace with no help from the tour company. Glad I decided to read reviews before clicking the "Book" button.

Date of experience : March 16, 2024

The 8 day Tour of Spain was well…

The 8 day Tour of Spain was well organized, good hotel rooms and services . Our tour guide Rosemary capably led some great tours.We took a two hours in Alhambra which for me was the highlight of this tour. The only issue for me was that the return flights were far too long. Madrid,Amsterdam,JFK and then to Toronto. I will consider future tours with Gate1

Date of experience : March 25, 2024

Essential Portugal and Spain

Our experience was terrific! We were greeted at the airport by the tour manager Alex and taken to the hotel. Everything was so organized with time between tours for lunch or shopping. The hotels were nice too. We felt safe and cared for at all times. The tour guides were fantastic in each city giving us plenty of history without being boring. The bus driver Marco was excellent making sure our things were secured at all time. We will definitely use this tour company again.

Date of experience : February 29, 2024

Dear Susan, Thank you for taking the time to share your comments. We truly appreciate the feedback and look forward to welcoming you on your next Gate 1 trip!

Gate1 are uncaring ……After doing around 8 tours with Gate1 I…

After doing around 8 tours with Gate1 I unfortunately had to cancel over a month before we were commencing our tour due to having to have emergency surgery. I thought Gate1 might be understanding and give us a full refund or at least credit towards another trip. They would only refund half our money and yes that was in the cancellation policy but having been such a long term repeat customer who had recommended them to many, I was under the delusion they may have some understanding of my situation and refund the full amount or at least give credit towards my next trip. I am six months post surgery now and have booked this years tour with another company. Will never book with Gate1 again.

Date of experience : August 09, 2023

Poor customer service leading to loss of ticket value

No possible to reach the travel agents on phone. Hence, communication to the Gate1 travel agents is possible via emails only. By 3pm UK time on 18 Feb, I confirmed my request to change my flight, from 19Feb at 1:45am to another day. But no response has been received, although my response was within 30-40min since the agent's reply time.. I appreciate this was on Sunday, but a clear statement on working hours and limitation from the beginning would be helpful. It seems the value of the ticket is lost which is very unpleasant. This could be easily avoided if there was an opportunity to call to agree the change and pay the diff in tariff.

Date of experience : February 18, 2024

Hello, Thank you for sharing your comments. We regret that your experience did not meet your expectations. So that one of our representatives can provide additional assistance and try to make this right for you, please submit an inquiry here: https://www.gate1travel.com/contactus

Wish I had read these reviews before…

Wish I had read these reviews before booking a trip to Turkey with Gate 1. Unfortunately Gate 1 Travel is NOT worth your hard earned money if life or work changes prevent your travel! Never buy insurance from this travel co. I was unable almost a year later to travel at the scheduled time to Turkey. Insurance will not cover this and Gate 1will not allow or honor any of my money paid to go to the rescheduling of my trip. My roundtrip tickets per Turkish Air due to a time change has emailed me that I can rebook my tickets without a change fee or additional costs! However I must go through Gate 1. Bobbie the Gate 1 Supervisor who initially refused to introduce herself, give her name until multiple requests and and absolutely refused to provide her full name or her boss’ name. Bobby stated she would ONLY ALLOW me to keep my fully paid airline tickets in MY NAME if I booked a new tour of Turkey paying FULL PRICE no credit or discount! RUN as fast as you can from this company! 3/22/24 Follow up I received a TC from Shannon Daugherty from Gate 1Travel. She informed me that my Turkish Airline tickets should and will be fully refunded. Shannon is working with me and was respectful as well as helpful. I was instructed to submit a claim to Gate 1Travel Insurance. If denied Gate 1 specifically Shannon will work with me to reschedule my trip next year without losing all my money. I will update this review once I have I have been reimbursed for my tickets and exactly what Gate 1 does regarding the tour!

Date of experience : March 19, 2024

Dear Ann, Thank you for sharing your comments. We regret that your experience did not meet your expectations. So that one of our representatives can provide additional assistance and try to make this right for you, please submit an inquiry here: https://www.gate1travel.com/contactus

Cancel for any reason doesn't really work.

We bought the cancel for any reason policy. We cancelled because we had to travel from NC to PA for my best friend's funeral. We were supposed to travel in October of 2023. So now we get a partial credit and a very small refund. Doesn't really do us any good because now it costs almost double for the same trip and we can't afford that. So we are basically out $1800 that we paid.

Date of experience : October 15, 2023

Diane, Thank you for sharing this feedback. Your comments are very important to us. We regret that your experience did not meet your expectations. We have provided your contact information to our customer service team who will reach out so that we can try to make this right for you.

Very disappointed with Gate 1

Very disappointed with Gate 1. We’re scheduled to tour Egypt in November. However, due to the the conflict that’s happening now with Israel in Palastine/Gaza and the West Bank, we are justifiably concerned about our safety. Our trip is fully paid, but we had humbly requested to reschedule for a later date to travel (Not asking for a refund) just to reschedule. Unfortunately for us Gate1 outright denied our request disregarding our concerns. The Arch insurance that’s offered through Gate1 essentially only covers Gate1.

Date of experience : October 17, 2023

Good experience with tour company

A tour by Gate 1 Travel called Discover Northern France that was booked for March 2024 was cancelled because of a lack of enough reservations to make this tour viable. A Customer Resolution Specialist for Gate 1, Donna Young, notified me that I could get a refund, Gate 1 travel credit, or book this tour later in the year at no additional cost. I chose to book this tour later in the year. Donna did an excellent job of offering me alternative dates and I chose a date in the fall 2024. I wish to thank Gate 1 for the options offered to me and to Donna for the superb job in booking an alternative tour date.

Date of experience : January 02, 2024

Thank you for taking the time to share your comments. We truly appreciate the kind feedback and look forward to welcoming you on your next Gate 1 trip!

Travel Protection is a scam, thru Gate 1.…

Booked Christmas market trip for early Dec. Bought ‘Travel Protection’ that Gate 1 promotes. My travel partner needed a heart operation. Had to cancel trip. We’ve waited two months after providing info requested with letter from surgeon. Today they say coverage denied because she had defib prior. Of course the Protection was stated as covering pre-existing conditions!!!!!! Total rip-off. Deceptive scam artists. VERY disgusted!!!

Date of experience : December 05, 2022

Thank you for sharing this feedback. Your comments are very important to us. We regret that your experience did not meet your expectations. We have provided your contact information to our customer service team who will reach out so that we can try to make this right for you.

Rethink Using Gate 1 for Travel

I was in a vehicle accident while on safari with Gate 1 in India last month. I was in the passenger seat of a large safari truck when a faulty door unexpectedly opened on the moving vehicle causing me to fall out backwards and hit my back and my head on surrounding rocks where I was knocked unconscious. I was taken to the emergency room by our tour guide because of the injuries to my head and my back. I was given pain medication (no diagnostics were done) and luckily my friend had brought her cane with her which I was forced to use for the remainder of the trip. My headaches and severe back pain continued until I was forced to go to the emergency room again. This time they gave me a shot in the back for my pain and pain meds, but again, no diagnostics. Severe back pain and headaches continued throughout the remainder of the trip making it difficult to keep up. When I returned home, I went to the emergency room where I had a CAT Scan and was given additional medication and lidocaine patches for the pain. Upon seeing my back surgeon following the ER visit it was decided that I needed major back surgery. The fall had exasperated my existing condition. The surgery was scheduled for 7 May. Upon scheduling the surgery, I contacted Gate 1 immediately to follow up on my accident and let them know of the planned surgery. (I assumed the accident had already been reported by the trip leader.) The surgery conflicted with another Gate 1 trip I had planned for Jordan on 7 May (the date of my surgery). Per my surgeon, and my inability to walk, I requested the trip be postponed to the fall. They outright refused. I then asked to speak to a supervisor who also refused my request. Mind you, I wasn’t asking to cancel the trip, just postpone the trip! I finally received an e-mail from an individual at Reservations: Support who also refused to postpone my trip. They said I needed to pay the 50% penalty fee since I “decided” to cancel. Once again, the ONLY reason I canceled was due to an accident that happened due to a faulty door on their trip!!! I found the entire interaction with Gate 1 beyond frustrating. India was my 10th trip with Gate 1. To add insult to injury, I was also in a vehicle accident on a Gate 1 tour when I was on a Kenya and Tanzania safari in the fall of 2022. Gate 1 was “so generous” for that inconvenience and my pain and suffering that they gave me $100. No apology. The lack of concern, assistance, and understanding from Gate 1 is appalling, especially considering this was my second major accident caused by Gate 1’s negligence in a two-year period. I will certainly be rethinking my use of Gate 1 as a tour company in the future. Maybe you should too.

Date of experience : March 24, 2024

Thereza, our tour guide in Europe

Thereza, our tour guide on Gate One's trip from Mainz, Germany to Venice, Austria November 2023 was extremely accommodating. She was punctual while caring for specific needs of some 40 people for 10 days. She was very knowledgeable of the 5 countries that we toured and surprised us continually with gifts; nice hotels; meals and even music that we all sang along with as we traveled. She was fun and we'd recommend her highly for a trip with Gate One travels in your future!!!

Date of experience : November 02, 2023

9 Day Classic Japan

This 9 Day tour should actually be called 7 Day Classic Japan - Gate 1 needs to revise / review since 2 of the days you are actually in transit. Our tour guide Ichiro was phenomenal- kudos to him for his patience & handling the hiccups. Loved the country, it's people & the culture. Only disappoinmet was that Japan has so much to offer but the Gate1 itinerary focussed on way too many shrines/temples.

Date of experience : June 06, 2023

Not really "making it right"

No follow up as promised. I gave a bad review of Gate 1 last week due to the bad customer service (and significant financial loss) from a recent Gate 1 trip. They immediately responded that they were sorry to hear this and would pass my information on to customer service so they could make it right. It's a week later and I have heard absolutely nothing. It's obviously just an automated response to make people think they are taking care of it, when in fact, they are blowing their customer off. Never thought I'd say this, but stay clear of Gate 1. I checked with my agent and the last communication she had was 6 days ago when the Gate 1 agent said I would get my $600 deposit back and "only" a 90% cancellation fee instead of 100%. Not really "making it right" in my mind, but I'm done. We will take our final tour with Gate 1 this Aug. (our 8th) as it is already booked. They have lost my loyalty and trust.

Date of experience : January 21, 2024

Hello, Thank you for your additional feedback. We show that a member of our customer service team has been in touch with your travel agent, Joellen. Please reach out to her for an update on this matter.

Worst customer service

Worst customer service. I had booked a trip to Greece. I called them about my plane itinerary. No answer after being on hold for hours together. I emailed them, but no response whatsoever. I will never ever book anything with these people. Stay away from 'GATE1 TRAVEL". I 100% agree with majority negative reviews on this website. Please do yourself a favor and save yourself from tremendous future headache by not using this lousy travel company.

Date of experience : July 10, 2022

Dear Yash, We are sorry to learn of the delay in responding you your phone call. We were experiencing an increase in call volume related to our most recent promotion. We do value our customers and make every effort to answer calls as quickly as possible. Please be assured we will respond to your email, you may also request a call back using the call back feature. Thank you for your understanding.

Southern England

We toured Southern England. Our guide, Mark, was delightful. Our accommodations were awful. In Stratford-Upon-Avon, where it was in the mid-80’s, we had no air conditioning in our rooms. There were major traffic issues. I’d you don’t mind substandard accommodations, go for it.

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Gate 1 Travel Review: Are Their Organized Tours Worth It?

Gate 1 Travel Review: Are Their Organized Tours Worth It?

Have you ever wanted to take a trip where everything is planned for you? I was in the same boat when I found Gate 1 Travel, which offers escorted coach tours all over the world. If you're wondering whether this is the route for you, I did all the work to give you the inside scoop!

gate 1 travel independent tours

One of the best parts of traveling is getting to decide where you want to go and what you want to see. However, it can also be the most stressful part of traveling.

How do you make sure you see everything you want to see, get the right hotels, and eat at the right restaurants, all while staying on budget? One option I often think about to help alleviate that stress is to book a tour that covers all the nitty-gritty details!

When you're thinking about organized travel, you'll come across so many tours and guides that'll it'll hurt your brain.

One of those is Gate 1 Travel. So, the real question is does it beat out other options when booking tours?

I wanted to find out so that you'll have the essential info on its tours, prices, destinations, and more! This way you'll be making a decision with lots of valuable knowledge.

Gate 1 travel logo

What Is Gate 1 Travel?

If you're not a fan of traveling with strangers, my advice is to go with a travel agency or plan your own trip. Don't go with Gate 1 Travel or other travel groups. Plan and go discover on your own instead with Pilot!

That's because you will definitely be exploring with a group if you book with with Gate 1 Travel.

Numbers fluctuate, but if you're keen on staying in a smaller group, be sure to check out Gate 1's Small Group tours . Also known as Discovery Tours, there are no more than 22 travelers on these trips, so you won't have to worry about there being too many people with you.

‍ Discovery Tours also allow you to get up close and personal with the country you're visiting in a way that often isn't possible in larger, escorted tours.

How Large Are Gate 1 Travel Groups?

If you're not a fan of traveling with strangers, my advice is to go with a travel agency or plan your own trip. Don't go with Gate 1 Travel.

Numbers fluctuate, but if you're keen on staying in a smaller group, be sure to check out Gate 1's  Small Group tours . Also known as Discovery Tours, there are no more than 22 travelers on these trips, so you won't have to worry about there being too many people with you. 

‍ Discovery Tours  also allow you to get up close and personal with the country you're visiting in a way that often isn't possible in larger, escorted tours. 

How Do I Book a Tour?

If you're interested in booking a tour with Gate 1 Travel, you'll first need to make an account.

You can head to the login page to do this. Once you've done that, you can start booking!

You'll select your tour region, followed by the country you want to visit and the tour that appeals most to you.

Choose your departure date, and decide whether you want flights included. You can then select those flights and any optional tours you may want to do during your trip.

Gate 1 travel tour

What's Included in Gate 1 Travel Tours?

When booking a tour with Gate 1, you want to know what's included.

Something I liked to see is that every trip offers a "land only" and "air & land" price, so you can decide whether to have your flights included. Flights do only go to and from select cities, depending on your tour dates.

Escorted tours will include the following:

  • Accommodation for the nights of the tour
  • Hotel taxes and service charges 
  • Transport between cities
  • Certain meals (what's included will be outlined in the tour details)
  • Sightseeing per the itinerary in an air-conditioned coach with a guide!

Not included is airfare for land-only trips, any visa-related fees, and optional extras you may decide to add to your tour.

Gate 1 travel bus

Gate 1 Deals

Every traveler loves a good deal, and Gate 1 offers some great affordable vacations. It's actually one of the best bundle travel deal sites out there!

By heading to the company's Featured Specials page, you'll get to see Gate 1's flash deals, as well as any last-minute deals for upcoming departure dates. They also have a featured destination sale which will change from time to time.

To access the deals, you'll need to use the promo code listed on these pages, and then you're on your way to saving on your next trip!

From its website, you can also sign up to receive weekly deals via email. You never know what you'll get in your inbox!

How Do I Contact Gate 1 Travel Customer Service?

Whether you have a question or a complaint, it's never a bad idea to know how to contact customer service.

Gate 1 Travel is currently experiencing a high volume of inquiries, but you can still fill out a  form  via the website to send an online inquiry. 

If you're traveling soon, you can get ahold of the team by phone. The company has 24-hour assistance line can be reached in the US by calling 215-572-7676. 

Cancellation Policy

If you find you can no longer join your Gate 1 Travel tour, how can you cancel your trip?

Once you've made at least a partial payment on your trip, you have to submit a cancellation request in writing via the contact us page.

Cancellation fees will then be applied based on how much time remains before your trip and will be applied as a percentage of what has already been paid. 

Customer Reviews

Overall, travelers seem to be satisfied with Gate 1's services and its tours.

Many of the complaints speak to packages booked with flights and how flight cancellations or changes have upheaved entire trips. Others have also mentioned the mismatch of travel credits promised versus ones they actually offer.

Other travelers have complained about Gate 1's customer service as being difficult to reach and not entirely helpful. It sounds like quite a few individuals had a tough time getting a full refund for their trip, even with travel insurance, when booking with them.

Whether it's that explanations can't be given, refunds are not fully issued, or travelers are sent in circles, it sounds like customer service is a hit or miss.

Other complaints have also touched on the itineraries being too packed to truly enjoy what you're seeing or to feel rested enough for them. 

Gate one travel boat

Is Gate 1 Travel Worth It?

After all my reading, my advice is to proceed with caution. Here's why.

My first impression when I got onto the website is that this is mainly targeting an older audience, with their branding outdated to the 2000s. That's not a judging criteria, but just a red flag in my opinion.

While Gate 1 Travel offers a lot of packaged tours, the volume of travelers who have had their trips impacted by flights booked through Gate 1 is concerning.

Instead, I would avoid the flight risks by opting for land-only tours. If you go this route, Gate 1 does offer tours all over the world, so it's a good place to at least browse through when you're trying to make a decision.

They also offer other kind of tours like independent vacations, European river cruises, and customized international vacation packages, but it's honestly not for me. The price is way too expensive and I can frankly plan it myself.

They also seem to charge a bit more than the actual ticket for many attractions, which to me seems like a dealbreaker unless it is actually hard for me to get the travel reservations myself.

In Gate 1 Travel's benefit, they sure do have tons of locations. From Paris to Peru, From Ecuador to Budapest, their tour packages extend to many destinations around the world. They also offer discount travel packages there and here, so that's something to consider for all you deal-seekers.

Keep in mind that some comments were made about the itineraries being a bit packed. So, if you're more of a relaxed traveler, I would be very careful going with Gate 1 Travel.

That being said, if you want to do and see as much as humanly possibly, Gate 1 could be the tour company for you!

If you like the idea of booking a tour but still aren't convinced that Gate 1 Travel is right for you, make sure to also check out companies like EF and Intrepid !

Our Rating: 3.1/5 

  • Tours all over the world
  • Small group options for more immersive experiences
  • Includes accommodation, and guided coach tours
  • Options for smaller group tours
  • Flight cancellations can result in trip cancellation
  • Poor customer service
  • Some feedback of packed schedules

Gate 1 Travel FAQs:

Is gate 1 travel still in business.

Yes, very much so. They've been operating for over 40 years and continue to maintain its operations despite its outdated website design.

Is Gate 1 Travel better than Trafalgar Tours?

They both offer the same comparable luxury comfort tours, so it's hard to say. I'd give Trafalgar the edge since they have more experience under their belt, but individual experiences will vary. Read our Trafalgar Tours Review for more detail!

Is Gate 1 Travel an American Company?

Yes, they're an American owned and run company based in Fort Washington, PA!

Who is the founder of Gate 1?

Dani Pipano is Gate 1 Travel's founder.

Ready to Get Traveling?

Whether you opt for a Gate 1 Travel tour, use another company, or decide to freestyle your next adventure, we want to make sure that you have the best time.

Use Pilot so you can keep all the different elements of your travels in one place and easily access them all. Plan your dream vacation today with Pilot!

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Disclosure : Pilot is supported by our community. We may earn a small commission fee with affiliate links on our website. All reviews and recommendations are independent and do not reflect the official view of Pilot.

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A very disappointing and demeaning tour - GATE 1 TRAVEL

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  • GATE 1 TRAVEL

Gate 1 offers the best hotels to stay in, unfortunately some of the guides they use are rude and... read more

gate 1 travel independent tours

I will give the travel part of the tour a 4 star and the shopping and meal a 1 star. We go with... read more

gate 1 travel independent tours

A very disappointing and demeaning tour

My husband and I took two recent trips with Gate 1 Travel, one to Iceland in January and one to Spain and Portugal from March 15 to 25,2023. The first one, to Iceland, was a wonderful experience in every way. The second, to Spain and Portugal, was an awful experience filled with anxiety and needless difficulties. What was the difference between the two trips? It was the tour managers. Our experience with Nico in Spain and Portugal has convinced us that we cannot count on Gate 1 for any future travel. Here’s an outline of why. —I have a condition in which I experience extreme nausea sitting in the middle or back of buses. I actually throw up in such situations. This condition is verified by doctors. —When traveling to Iceland, our tour manager there accommodated my request to sit at the front of the bus throughout the tour. Another member of our group had similar needs and was also accommodated. This accommodation caused no trouble among the rest of the members of our group. —Because I could see that Gate 1’s written policy states that tour members must rotate in their seats and there are no exceptions to this policy, before our next trip (to Spain and Portugal) I contacted Gate 1 multiple times to check whether accommodations could be made for me to sit in front of the bus. I was told that such decisions are at the discretion of the tour manager, and I understood this to mean that accommodations are possible even if not guaranteed. My further inquiries about this were unanswered. —At the beginning of our tour in Spain and Portugal, I told Nico of my needs and offered to show him a medical certificate I brought with me. He did not want to see the certificate, and he told me that he was instructed by the home office that he could not make exceptions to the seat rotation rule and that his directive was to maintain harmony among the members of the group. If he was indeed told this by the home office, it indicates a contradictory policy in the company because the directive doesn’t match what I was told earlier that tour managers have discretion. —In any case, Nico did exercise discretion and did make an exception for me (apparently contradicting the directive he said he was given) and allowed me to sit in the front seat next to him during much of the tour. But he made sure to tell me that he reported the fact that the tour manager in Iceland had made an accommodation for me. Nico told me that that tour manager would be fired for doing so. This caused me great distress and set the tone for the remainder of the tour. —During the tour, Nico told a tour guide not to answer my questions, saying that I ask too many questions. He told the guide this in Spanish. My husband speaks Spanish and overheard it. On another occasion, Nico told another tour guide, also in Spanish, to be careful what he said because my husband could understand Spanish. The fact that such conversations occurred further damaged our trust. —In Barcelona, Nico said I would not be able to sit in the front seat with him during the trip to the Gaudi Monuments — the most highlighted and popular attraction in the city — because he would need the space so he could do paperwork during the journey. As a result, I could not ride on the bus for that trip and missed out. —At another point, we wanted to take a train to a destination but did not want to do so if it would mean taking all of our luggage. Nico told us that he would be able to keep our large luggage on the bus. Because he told us this, we were willing to book the train, and Nico helped us book it. But just before the train trip, Nico told us that he would not be able to keep our luggage for us after all. Later, we met another group that was also on a Gate 1 tour. The members of that group had taken the train to their destination and all of them were able to leave their luggage on a bus. So there was a contradiction between how Nico handled us and how another tour manager handled a separate group. These are just a few points among several that could be made. I have tried to be brief in my description of what happened, and as a result, the full sense of how unpleasant our experience was may not be completely apparent. But it indeed was. The way Nico dealt with us left us feeling demeaned and relegated to nuisance status.

I would give Gate 1 an excellent rating because of the superior service I received on my recent trip to Thailand. I love that they take care of every detail - all I need to do is relax and enjoy my trip. My tour guide Kit was everything you would want in a guide - funny, informative, thoughtful. She was constantly bringing local treats on to the bus to share with us. The hotels we stayed in were top notch. The cities were visited were all really interesting and showed us different aspects of Thailand. I can't say enough about how great this trip was!

We loved Italy with our tour guide Patricia! However, several weeks before our trip we received a call from Gate1 stating that Delta had cancelled our Jacksonville to Boston leg ( which we had paid more for) and they needed to rebook all of the flights to and from Italy as they cancelled the entire flights. They found us new tickets for an extra 2200 plus we would need to pay an extra 220 dollars for a hotel as we would need to arrive a day early. The Affordable Trip to Italy is no longer affordable. I asked for my money back and was told I could only get 50 percent back. My husband found a flight out of Miami for an extra 450 dollars. We had to drive 6 hours to get there but it was more affordable. We have asked to speak to a supervisor several times but have yet to speak to someone. The agent gave us 50 a piece (credit) because someone closed our request to speak to a supervisor. Just know, you do not own the tickets(even though you paid for trips months before) .

Gate 1 has left me stranded in foreign countries 2 times now without any support or assistance getting a new flight home. This happened in Equador and Africa. I had to find my own new flight snd ride to airport, even though everything was originally booked thru and by Gate 1. You cannot rely on this agency to get you home. Horrible service.

Loved Sri Lanka. The tour was very nice and the staff was some of the best I have experienced. Our guide, Shyam was awesome, very considerate and worked very hard to accommodate so many weird request.. always with a smile. His verbal history of Sri Lanka really helped us understand the nature of their country. I will for sure return for the Northern tour. Great choice of hotels, staff and points of interest. Thank you so much for this experience. Judy

gate 1 travel independent tours

I have been on two Gate1 tours, to Mexico in Aug 2022 and to Egypt in Feb 2023. I thought the Mexico trip was a great value for money, the Egypt trip of average value for money. For both tours, I was very pleased with the destination tour manager and local tour companies. The hotels and motor coaches at least met my expectation for quality and sometimes exceeded expectations. Included meals were okay, neither bad nor in any way exceptional. The biggest disappointment is Gate1's US staff's below average customer service. The US office is consistently bad. They are VERY hard to reach by phone and provide no email address. Their website looks to be 15 years out of date and is useless for resolving issues. If you can reach them by phone, maybe they can help, but it's far from assured. For one of the trips, the one to Egypt, the tour price included R/T flights--both JFK to/from Cairo and two flights internal to Egypt. Gate1 bought group tickets on EgyptAir but failed to enter travelers' frequent flier numbers or arrange for specialty meals, despite having the information on hand. EgyptAir, which also has pretty poor customer service, said all this had to be arranged by Gate1, since these were group ticket and, of course, Gate1 doesn't answer the phone. Had to walk to ticket counter in Cairo and walk in to a ticket office in Aswan to get frequent flier numbers entered and meal choices.

Globus vs Gate 1 Travel

Tour companies compared.

Globus logo

4.7   Excellent  

12,820 reviews

Gate 1 Travel logo

Gate 1 Travel

3.7   Great  

745 reviews

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Reviews & Ratings

Globus logo

4.7   Excellent 12,820 reviews  

Gate 1 Travel logo

3.7   Great 745 reviews  

Recent Reviews

Globus logo logo

guide Sites are amazing, but tour ruins it

This tour has amazing sites, good hotels in great locations, great pace BUT the tour director that was assigned to be with our small group added nothing to the exper...

Tour:   Patagonia: Journey to the End of the World

Gate 1 Travel logo logo

Gate 1 cares about money and not customer satisfaction or safety

We have loved Gate 1 and always sing their praises. We've been on 7 tours with another one booked for fall. We were supposed to leave for Ecuador this week, however ...

Operator Overview

Travelers age

global Company

Trip prices

$699 - $13,249

Service level

Tour languages

$589 - $12,199

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  • Group Tours
  • River Cruises
  • Independent / Self-Guided Packages

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  • North America
  • Central America & Caribbean
  • South America
  • Rivers & Seas
  • Australia & Pacific
  • Middle East & North Africa
  • Solo & Singles Travel

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About Globus

Why Travel with Globus?

Perfectly Planned. Seriously Stress Free.

After 90-plus years of sharing the world with travelers, Globus has set the gold standard for award-winning touring across virtually every continent. Our global network of premiere travel partners, operations experts, and hospitality pros share one goal in mind—an exceptional travel experience no matter where we travel together.

Beyond the Guidebooks.

About Gate 1 Travel

Gate 1 Travel offers escorted tours, European river cruises, independent vacations and customized international vacation packages for less. Our discount travel packages and tour packages to destinations worldwide provide exceptional value, saving our customers time and money. We have taken care of all the details so you don't have to. Find your dream vacation today.

Company Background & Highlights

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  1. Gate1 Tours

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  2. Gate1 Tours

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  3. Gate 1 Travel

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  4. GATE 1 TRAVEL (Washington DC)

    gate 1 travel independent tours

  5. Gate 1 Travel Profile [2024]

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  6. Gate1 Tours

    gate 1 travel independent tours

COMMENTS

  1. Independent Vacations

    Gate 1 Travel has provided quality, affordable escorted tours, river cruises and vacation packages for 40 years. We look forward to showing you More of the World for Less on your next vacation. ... 4 Barcelona Tour Type: Independent Season: Apr - Oct '24 6 Day Barcelona Vacation (New York) Air & Land: $969* Land Only: 4 Barcelona Tour Type ...

  2. Independent

    A City Stay, Multi-City, Fly & Drive, and By Rail vacation allows you to explore on your own pace and without the included features an escorted tour. Italy. Iceland. Spain & Portugal. Azores. France. England & Scotland. Central Europe. Belgium & Holland.

  3. Top Gate1 Tours Independent Vacation

    Gate1 Tours Independent VacationGate1 Travel offers various travel options, including escorted tours, independent vacations, customized trips, ... Learn More About Gate1 Tours. Gate 1 Travel was founded in 1981 with a staff of two, and today has a worldwide staff well into the hundreds. Its mission from the beginning remains the same: to offer ...

  4. Stay & Explore

    Introducing Stay & Explore packages, with all of the benefits of an escorted tour and the comfort of a central location without packing and unpacking. Stay in just one or two hotels to experience the best of the region. Enjoy the freedom to tailor your experience to your preferences, whether you seek leisurely exploration or immersive cultural ...

  5. Independent Vacations

    Gate 1 Travel has provided quality, affordable escorted tours, river cruises and vacation packages for 40 years. We look forward to showing you More of the World for Less on your next vacation.

  6. Gate 1 independent travel

    Reviewed March 19, 2009. We recently had a great trip to London using Gate 1 travel. Normally we use them for package tours and had always been pleased but this time we just wanted good flight and hotel arrangements. They really did a great job with wonderful prices on the airfare and a beautiful hotel. The flights were only 1/3 full so we were ...

  7. Is Gate 1 Travel Legit? A Comprehensive Review of the Popular Tour

    Gate 1 Travel is a travel agency that provides escorted tours, independent vacations, and customized travel packages to various destinations around the world. The company was founded in 1981 by Dan and Harriet Peltier and is headquartered in Fort Washington, Pennsylvania.

  8. Gate1 Tours

    Gate 1 Travel operates on all seven continents, covering destinations worldwide. The company offers various travel options, including escorted tours, independent vacations, customized trips, and river cruises. The company offers classic, small group, deluxe, off-season, and value travel options. Gate 1 Travel's escorted tours are designed for ...

  9. 12 Day Treasures of Provence by Gate 1 Travel

    Gate 1 welcomes your inquiries of any of those independent offices. Gate 1 Travel's active membership in USTOA (United States Tour Operators Association), a professional organization representing the world's leading tour operators, requires that Gate 1 meet a minimum requirement of $1 million professional liability insurance (Gate 1 maintains a ...

  10. Gate 1 Travel Profile [2024]

    Gate 1 welcomes your inquiries of any of those independent offices. Gate 1 Travel's active membership in USTOA (United States Tour Operators Association), a professional organization representing the world's leading tour operators, requires that Gate 1 meet a minimum requirement of $1 million professional liability insurance (Gate 1 maintains a ...

  11. gate 1 travel vs go ahead tours

    Both Gate 1 Travel and Go Ahead Tours offer travel packages that include airfare, accommodations, and guided tours. However, the two companies differ in the types of travel packages they offer. Gate 1 Travel offers a wide variety of travel packages, including escorted tours, independent vacations, river cruises, and small group tours.

  12. Gate 1 Travel

    Gate 1 Travel, Fort Washington, Pennsylvania. 257,281 likes · 2,130 talking about this · 753 were here. See More of the World For Less! Escorted Tours, Small Groups, River Cruises & Walking Tours

  13. Gate 1 Travel: Your Definitive Guide

    Gate 1 Travel offers a range of travel packages, including escorted tours, independent vacations, river cruises, and small-group tours. With options like tour managers, local guides, flexibility, unique waterway exploration, and personalized experiences, Gate 1 Travel provides something for every traveler.

  14. Gate 1 Travel Reviews

    Gate 1 Travel is an amazing company. Gate 1 Travel is an amazing company. For starters, booking our trip to Ireland was easy, complete and priced reasonably. Next, our bus driver, Mark, a very kind gentleman, navigated all the twisty-turny roads like a master. And most important, our tour guide, Jill, was incredible!

  15. Gate 1 Travel Review: Are Their Tours Worth It?

    Customer Reviews. Overall, travelers seem to be satisfied with Gate 1's services and its tours. Many of the complaints speak to packages booked with flights and how flight cancellations or changes have upheaved entire trips. Others have also mentioned the mismatch of travel credits promised versus ones they actually offer.

  16. 11 Day Irish Culture by Gate 1 Travel

    Gate 1 welcomes your inquiries of any of those independent offices. Gate 1 Travel's active membership in USTOA (United States Tour Operators Association), a professional organization representing the world's leading tour operators, requires that Gate 1 meet a minimum requirement of $1 million professional liability insurance (Gate 1 maintains a ...

  17. A very disappointing and demeaning tour

    A very disappointing and demeaning tour - Review of GATE 1 TRAVEL, Washington DC, DC - Tripadvisor. GATE 1 TRAVEL. 361 Reviews. #208 of 374 Tours in Washington DC. Other, Tours, More. 455 Maryland DriveFort Washington, PA 19034, Washington DC, DC 19034-2501. Read all 361 reviews.

  18. Insight Vacations vs Gate 1 Travel Compared

    Gate 1 Travel offers escorted tours, European river cruises, independent vacations and customized international vacation packages for less. Our discount travel packages and tour packages to destinations worldwide provide exceptional value, saving our customers time and money. We have taken care of all the details so you don't have to.

  19. Globus vs Gate 1 Travel Compared

    About Gate 1 Travel. Gate 1 Travel offers escorted tours, European river cruises, independent vacations and customized international vacation packages for less. Our discount travel packages and tour packages to destinations worldwide provide exceptional value, saving our customers time and money.