These vacations allow a group of travelers to remain at each spot on the itinerary for several nights, enjoying more free time and optional excursions, which provide for a deeper look at an area. The basic package tour is still one of the most attractive options for travelers who enjoy the security of a knowledgeable professional who arranges transportation, lodging, food and the itinerary itself. But greater numbers of people are saying that they would rather be on their own, putting together a trip by selecting options from tour-company catalogs. A major trend has been creation of education-based travel programs, most often sponsored by museums, zoos, universities and professional organizations. Hundreds of colleges and universities rally their alumni by offering trips or credit courses abroad.
Zoos often schedule safaris or other wildlife-focused tours.
Other travelers are more interested in learning from personal interactions rather than in an academic setting. Folkways Institute of Portland, Ore., has lecture tours, treks and programs enabling personal exchanges with individuals. The Friendship Force, whose members take turns hosting and visiting each other around the world. Host families provide lodging and food as well as experiences in everyday aspects of their lives and culture. Elderhostel also has volunteering programs, in which travelers share skills and interests with residents of other nations.