Having experienced multiple Contiki tours firsthand, Personal Travel Manager, Teagan Underwood brings a level of insight that goes far beyond brochures and itineraries. She’s been in the moment, met the people, and felt the energy that makes these trips so unforgettable. In this Q&A, she shares her personal experiences, expert tips, and honest advice to help you confidently navigate the many options that are Contiki and why booking with a Personal Travel Manager brings more benefits than just savings.
“Selling a trip is one thing – living it is another”.
Seven in total so far!
Yes, each tour was truly different! My first tour was European Discovery which was a fast-paced snapshot of Europe which was the perfect first trip for myself and gave me the travel bug. Contiki through Spain and Portugal were a slower pace and more in-depth visits to each city. I also did special events with Contiki like Tomorrowland and St Patrick’s day which were great as I was able to connect with like-minded travellers who were interested in the same event. The Asia Contiki was truly different style and much more relaxed and getting involved with the locals. Africa, on the other hand, was a whole different ball game – incredibly in-depth and laid-back, with little to no party vibe, offering a more meaningful and reflective travel experience.
YES!!! I still have them all on Spotify play list today.
My first Contiki day song was “Sun Goes Down” by Robin Schulz – full circle moment when he actually played at Tomorrowland when I was on another Contiki and played the exact song.
“Old Town Road” by Billu Ray Cyrus was so fitting for the Boot Scoot and Blus tour in USA and “Africa” by Toto classic for doing a safari!
Every single trip has a big mix of travellers. I do find Europe especially the fast-paced snapshot of the big major cities has a younger average age whereas Africa has an older average age. I have met all types of people from all walks of life! I have met friends on Contiki Europe and then met up with them in their hometown in South Africa years later.
“Is it party all the time?” and the answer is no.
Of course if you want to party your guide will show you how and give you good recommendations but if you do not want to party there is no pressure to, your free to do whatever you prefer! I remember in USA I skipped a bar in the afternoon and ordered uber eats Maccas and had a nap! In Africa I did not have a single drink – it all comes down to personal preference. You create the holiday you want!
Excited vibe!! I always find that the group is so happy and so excited to be on the trip. Every single person has a common interest – travel! Typically, I have seen Australians, Kiwis, English, Germans, Americans, Canadians, South Africans & Brazilians on trips. I find there is a mix of solo travellers, friend groups and couples.
How easy it was! I just sat back and relaxed whilst I was able to be taken everywhere I wanted to go. It got me hooked!
You will not regret it! I did 4/7 trips solo and have made friends for life on each one. I normally find the solo travellers get to know each other super quick. You will also have a roomie so it’s easy to chat whilst getting ready for your first group dinner! You will also to intros with the group, so it is a good ice breaker at the start.
Just how easy it is and what great value of money it is. You truly just sit back, and the tour guide takes care of the rest. You are not stressed about trains or hotel bookings or where to go for dinner its all taken care of. When you break down the cost per day it is extremely good value for what it is, you have a bunch of included experiences too which are usually your hot spots like e.g. entry to the Eiffel Tower or game drives on safari.
included is your breakfast, some lunches or dinner, tour guide, accommodation, internal transport & some activities. What’s not included is your flight to get there and home, spending money, other meals, travel insurance and optional activities.
Overall, your price point will normally be more when you are doing it on your own. Once you factor in accommodation, internal transport, activities and guides it is better value to do on a tour.
Every trip is different and your personal travel manager can let you know what tour what pace is. You get free time even on the fast-paced tours, but it might only be an afternoon whereas some of the slow-paced tours have fully free days.
Yes, all optional activities are booked once you’re on the trip. As your Personal Travel Manager, I can also advise you of other smaller add-ons you might like such as Greek Island Hopper or the Chateau in France.
Support in find the right tour, answering any and all questions, there is anything goes wrong & finding you the best price.
That is tough when there are so many! I have to say on my most recent Contiki in Africa we were cruising in Botswana watching the animals on the river we saw baby elephants and were all just relaxing and chatting in this beautiful spot. I thought to myself I love travel; this is what I love and what I am meant to do. I got home and quit my finance job and returned to working in travel after I swore I never would after covid, I haven’t looked back since – this is where I belong.
Book the trip, you will not regret it!
At the end of the day, Contiki isn’t just about the places you visit – it’s about the people you meet, the moments you don’t expect, and the memories that stay with you long after you return home. Having experienced it myself, I can honestly say it’s one of the most rewarding ways to see the world. If you’ve been thinking about it, take this as your sign to go. You will not regret it.
If you would like to know more about Contiki or book a Contiki, talk to one of our personal travel managers to find out more.
TravelManagers respects and honours the Traditional Custodians of the land and pay our respects to their Elders past, present and future. We acknowledge the stories, traditions and culture of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples on the lands where we work and gather, and those we visit.
