In today's travel landscape, experiences that blend fun, education, and value are highly sought after. These are particularly sought after by families going on holiday. They want to explore, taste and experience adventures.
In this completely untapped niche, you as tour operators can capitalize on this trend by incorporating unique educational tours into your itineraries, offering travellers deeper engagement and lasting memories.
The Power of "Edutainment"
Perhaps you might remember the thrill of your school field trip, or going on camps for the summer? That sense of discovery and behind-the-scenes access in all areas of life was a delicious anticipation.
This "edutainment" approach still resonates with travellers of all ages and demographics. Consider the appeal of a tour like the Herr's Snack Food Factory in Nottingham, PA: "family fun," "educational," and "free" – a winning combination.
This is just one example that highlights the potential of tours that combine entertainment with insightful learning. As a matter of fact, manufacturing and factory tours are extremely popular with everyone.
Why Educational Tours Are a Winning Strategy:
- Diversification of Offerings: Planning educational tours will expand your tour portfolio beyond traditional sightseeing, attracting a wider audience.
- Enhanced Value Proposition: Consider offering enriching experiences that further justify tour costs and create a perception of added value.
- Family-Friendly Appeal: For family holidays, educational tours cater to seeking engaging and informative activities, adding to holiday fun.
- Group Tour Magnet: The structured nature of educational tours makes them ideal for large groups, schools, colleges, and even business organizations.
- Unique Selling Points: Tours that offer behind-the-scenes access and hands-on learning create memorable experiences that stand out.
- Off-Season Appeal: All year-round educational tours can attract travellers during off-peak seasons, filling gaps in your schedule.
To craft successful educational tours, tour operators, consider these key elements:
Behind-the-Scenes Access:
Like the Herr's Factory tour, provide access to working facilities, workshops, or research centres. Allow participants to witness processes first-hand and interact with experts in the processes.
Interactive Learning:
Incorporate hands-on activities, demonstrations, and interactive exhibits. Utilize multimedia, such as videos and presentations, to enhance tour engagement, and for marketing purposes too.
Only Use Expert Guides:
It is crucial to employ knowledgeable guides who can provide insightful commentary and answer questions. Consider using industry professionals or subject matter experts for educational tourism.
Curriculum Integration:
For school groups, you can align tour content with educational standards and curricula. Liaise with school heads wrt to this option. Provide pre- and post-tour materials, and where possible samples to reinforce learning.
Sensory Experiences:
Excite clients by engaging multiple senses through tasting, smelling, touching, and seeing. Like the fresh chip tasting in the Herr's tour, this leaves a strong impression. Take a look: Click here
Storytelling and Narrative:
Frame the tour around a compelling but interesting narrative that captivates participants and maintains their attention. Share the history, science, or cultural significance of the subject matter.
Logistics and Accessibility:
It is important to ensure the tour is accessible to all participants, including those with disabilities. Provide clear directions, transportation, and amenities.
Flexibility and Customization:
Allow for different tour lengths, and the ability to customize tours for different age groups or interests. Consider different lunch options or add-on activities.
Some Examples of Educational Tour Themes:
- Culinary Tours: These will explore local food production, cooking techniques, and cultural food traditions.
- Science and Technology Tours: These tours will visit research labs, observatories, or technology centres.
- Historical and Cultural Tours: These tours delve into the history and culture of a region through interactive exhibits and guided tours.
- Environmental and Nature Tours: For learning about ecosystems, conservation efforts, and sustainable practices.
- Art and Craft Tours: Tourists can explore local art studios, workshops, and galleries.
- Highlight the educational value and unique experiences offered. Use quality images and short video clips
- Target specific audiences, such as families, schools, and special interest groups.
- Utilize testimonials and reviews from past tourists to build credibility.
- Partner with educational institutions and business organizations.
Basic Tour Example:
The Overview:
This one-day immersive food production tour example offers travellers a behind-the-scenes look at how local delicacies are grown, processed, and prepared.This tour would be ideal for families, student groups, or food enthusiasts, the tour blends education with hands-on fun, tastings, and cultural storytelling.
Duration of Tour:
1 Full Day (approx. 8 hours)Location Example:
Countryside region with a mix of local farms, small-scale food producers, and culinary workshops.Accommodation Details:
Not included in this one-day tour, but optional lodging can be arranged upon request.Pricing: *Examples Only
- Adults: $85 per person
- Children (6-12): $60
- Group rate (10+ participants): $75 per person
Includes: Transportation, all tastings, lunch, guided tours, and workshop materials.
Itinerary Highlights:
Morning – Visit to Organic Vegetable Farm.- Guided walk with a local farmer.
- Learn about sustainable farming methods.
- Hands-on harvesting experience.
- Fresh fruit/vegetable tasting session.
- Observe the cheese-making process from milk to aging.
- Interactive Q&A with dairy technicians.
- Cheese tasting platter and refreshments.
- Dine at a countryside eatery using ingredients from visited locations.
- Introduction to seasonal menus and culinary traditions.
- Hands-on session with a local chef.
- Prepare a traditional dish using local produce.
- Learn plating techniques and kitchen safety tips.
- Take-home recipe booklet.
Short presentation on regional food history and sustainability efforts. Finally, a Certificate of participation for educational groups
Special Inclusions:
- All transportation between venues
- Expert-led sessions and interactive workshops
- Take-home materials (e.g. recipe booklets, certificates)
- Dietary accommodations are available upon request
Exclusions:
- Personal purchases (e.g. farm shop goods)
- Optional gratuities
- Accommodation (optional add-on)
