In this edition of “Under the Microscope,” I will examine an important aspect of the greatly increasing trend toward small-group travel. In terms of who is in charge of leading groups, including solving any problems encountered along the way, how are these groups operated on the ground by tour companies?

Compare a recent issue of ITN with one from five years ago and the trend of more tour operators’ offering options for traveling in small groups is clear. This is in...

by June L. Griffin, Lewiston, ME

The prospect of a trip to Eastern Europe was made very attractive by the thought of stepping ashore in five countries — Romania, Bulgaria, Serbia & Montenegro, Croatia and Hungary — from the comfort of a luxurious river vessel. Just a decade ago Russia dominated these countries, which are now enjoying a taste of freedom, and in October ’05 I spent two weeks visiting this diverse region of Europe.

The ship

My trip was what Grand...

Dear reader, I am happy to say that people are reading my column. I’m getting nearly 20 questions a month, but, as mentioned before, I can only answer a few because of limitations on space and time.

Predictably, no two questions are alike. Some are about a minute detail of travel; others may just ask an opinion.

Mary Ann Gerlach of Elm Grove, WI, wrote, “Just because one has been a travel agent does not necessarily make one an expert in any way. Independent travelers often know...