XsTatiC, Very helpful comparison. Thank you.
I'm leaning toward Elderhostel. There are only three things keeping me from booking right now:
1. All meals are included. I'm concerned that either we won't like what they choose to serve, or (even in India) they won't accommodate my lacto-vegetarian diet. They've assured me that they will, but I've heard that before (from others) and it hasn't been done.
2. The price is way more than the other tour companies I'm considering. Wondering if they're worth it.
3. The $500 non-refundable deposit. We're looking at a November 2010 trip and a lot could happen in 22 months.
Can you give me any more information?
1. We've had people on our trips with all three companies I mentioned who have had strict dietary restrictions. Whether it's been allergy related or dietary preference (vegetarian) they've all been accommodated. So, I'm not sure I can help you out on that. It's unfortunate you were promised somethign in the past regarding food requirments and it was not followed through on.
2. Price is of course a factor. You may have a brilliant time on the cheapest option available to you or vice-versa. I will say that the type of accommodation has tended to be better on the ElderTreks trips (and as I noted earlier their leaders seem to be much better). However the sleeping part is the least adventurous part of the trip anyway, so that is never a concern of mine. Two quotes come to mind. 1 "you get what you pay for." 2. "you never know until you try". So I'm not sure I can help make this decision for you.
3. I've had to cancel a trip with ElderTreks before. I did have insurance though and was able to get it back from the insurance company. That said, ElderTreks also held an amount of my deposit in escrow so I was able to use all but a small administration fee ( I think it was everything but a $150 for the work they had put into my booking already ) towards a future booking. Which I did use without a problem.
Anyway, a lot can be said about your gut-feeling about a company. So choose the one that you feel most suits your needs and that you feel most comfortable with.
I was just looking at the ElderTreks website. Until March 15th they're offering
15% off all 2010 departure dates. That may help you with your decision.
Let us know what you decide. It's very exciting to be in the planning stages of a big adventure.
Cheers.