I'll admit, taking a group tour made me a little nervous.

After friends' schedules and finances failed to align, I researched tours but found those geared towards young singles focused on either eco-tourism or something resembling a frat party. I'm not against either, but if I'm going to cross an ocean for a trip, I want more than backpacks and beer on the other end. Still, I didn't want to be the sole non-retiree on a monstrous motor coach either.

I was relieved when I read that Rick Steves' Europe tours were geared towards those who just wanted some help in maximizing a limited amount of time and money. And while I'm good at planning, sometimes it's more relaxing to follow. Soon I booked a Best of Paris tour at an off-season discount, decided to purchase the single supplement, and also found a deal on airfare. I also ponied up money for travel insurance which I nearly had to use, thanks to a case of strep throat with terrible timing!