Overall, this was an amazing trip to be introduced to Europe and experience a little bit of everything there. If you are thinking about opting out of a tour service like this and figuring it all out on your own, I would advise against it. There are a lot of cultural and social differences between these countries that a cursory internet search will not make you aware of. The tour guide's guidance is really what allowed us to be safe and not clueless while exploring, and the tour also highlighted a lot of the activities and locations that were actually worth doing. I feel like I truly maximized my time in Europe and did not waste a moment. At this price point, I doubt you would be able to find anything as good. It was truly life-changing, and on the flight back I dreaded coming back home. Also, if you see Kevin Screene as an option for your tour guides, take him. Amazing person and an even better guide.
Rachelle was the best tour leader. Some hotels needs to be reviewed/replaced. Chris and Simon very professional drivers. All side excursions were worth the money. Planed meals were very good and represented the local flavor. Be prepared to pay to pee and all the labor strikes in Italy.
A life experience that I will never forget. It was a dream come true when my wife and I booked with the tour operator and we did the Europe Escape on March 31-April 11 of this year. Antonio and Peter is the best tandem, wonderful guys!