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Is EF Ultimate Break Legit?
If you're questioning if EF is legit - the answer is undoubtedly YES! EF Ultimate Break is a tour company that specializes in providing amazing group tours around the world. EF stands for Education First, and it's global mission is to provide travelers with an educational experience while exploring new places.
If you mainly clicked on this post for the discount code, I won't keep you.
Here it is: https://www.efultimatebreak.com/?ba=UAYllara100
The discount will be automatically applied to your cart at checkout. But, if you're here to dig deeper and find out what it's like traveling with this company, keep reading!
EF Ultimate Break offers over 250 unique destinations to choose from, so you can find the perfect tour tailored to your interests. EF's trips range from two weeks to over a month in length, so you can find the perfect itinerary that fits your schedule and budget.
They also offer city tours, beach getaways, cultural excursions, and more - allowing you to explore the world without having to worry about the logistics of planning a trip on your own. The only catch - there's an age range for travelers looking to take an EF Ultimate Break trip. Keep reading to find out why. But first, here's a quick introduction.
Who Am I?
My name is Yllara and I have been an EF Ultimate Break ambassador for over a year now. I'm a full-time architect and part-time content creator with a passion for travel.
During my university years, a friend suggested I go on an EF trip since they had already been on numerous trips with them. At first, I was just as skeptical about travel companies as many people are when they first learn of the concept.
As a woman and someone who had never traveled on my own before, I was fearful and anxious, and often came up with many excuses why I shouldn't book a trip.
A few years and one college degree later, I found myself constantly relying on friends and family to travel abroad. After every disappointment caused by friends bailing out at the last minute, I decided it was time to make something happen for myself and book my first solo trip with EF - It turned out to be one of the best choices I ever made!
The whole process was simple, and before I knew it, I found myself traveling throughout Spain with a bunch of strangers - who eventually became lifelong friends. Above is a photo of me in Seville living my best life. After having such an incredible first-time experience, I decided to join the EF family and become an ambassador.
Today, I pride myself in helping people like me - especially girls - who want to travel alone but are concerned for their safety. I can tell you firsthand that there's no better way to do solo travel than booking a tour with a company like EF - if you're within the age range.
What is the age limit for Ultimate Break Tours?
Did you know that EF Ultimate Break Tours are designed specifically for young adults between the ages of 18 and 35? One of the most popular questions that I get when I post promotional content for EF is: "Why is there an age limit?"
The answer is simple. EF Ultimate Break tours are designed for a younger crowd in terms of accommodations, pace, and activities. Most of their itineraries require at least some level of physical activity. Trust me when I tell you that climbing the hill to get to the Alhambra in Granada had me out of breath, and I'm only twenty-six.
In addition, some of their tours are fast-paced and would not be suitable for older travelers. Another major reason for the age range is simply that the majority of their customers are young girls who want to travel solo.
EF understands the needs of its customers like no other, and for that reason, safety is a major priority. Their commitment to making sure everyone feels safe and secure throughout their travels with strangers is remarkable; this dedication has led to amazing customer reviews.
Don't worry if you're past your 35th birthday - EF Go Ahead Tours is an alternative branch of EF that also provides group adventures, much like those from EF Ultimate Break, but without any age restrictions.
And for those wondering whether this travel company exclusively caters to students: it doesn't! Although the company does offer college break trips, a majority of their tours are catered to all young adults. Now, let's explore the exciting tours and potential destinations for you.
Where Can I Go With EF Ultimate Break Tours?
Whether you want to climb Machu Picchu in Peru or take a cooking lesson in Italy, EF Ultimate Break has something for everyone. It offers tours in every continent, except for Antarctica, with some of its most popular tours being in Europe and Latin America.
However, they've added a few more Asian destinations in the last couple of months. EF is constantly adding new experiences to its growing list of destinations. Below are some of its most popular tours based on region.
Europe
The Greek Islands
Germany, Italy and Switzerland
Grand Tour of Ireland
Asia
Highlights of Japan
Thailand Getaway
Latin & South America
Costa Rica Adventure
Peru & Machu Picchu Adventure
North America
Hawaii: Big Island Adventure
U.S. National Parks
Australia and New Zealand
Highlights of Australia
Australia & New Zealand Adventure
Africa & The Middle East
Kenya: African Safari
Highlights of Morocco
What Are the Trip Types?
EF Ultimate Break Offers two different types of trips: Plus and Essential. Each trip type has different degrees of accommodations and activity levels.
Essential trips include mostly hostel stays with basic amenities. Activity levels can range from low to moderate, and you'll most likely have some free time embedded into your itinerary.
If you book one of these tours, you'll be staying with several roommates. Essential trips also tend to be very fast-paced, so pack lightly if you chose this option. EF loves the Generator chain of hostels, which are typically pretty updated and clean.
If you’re looking to upgrade your stay, Plus trips are the perfect option for you. Not only will you enjoy additional meals throughout your journey, but also have the benefit of having just one roommate if that's what you prefer.
Don't worry if you'd rather sleep alone - we will talk about how you can do this later. To top it off, Essential tours are precisely how they sound - a journey for the adventurous traveler. It's basically a backpacker trip.
How do EF Tours Work?
If you're wondering about the signup process for taking a trip with EF Ultimate Break, it's as easy as pie. However, I'll make it even simpler for you and explain the booking process - as well as what you should expect during your trip.
Booking
Booking a trip is effortless. All you need to do is go on the website and browse through the various options. Once you pick a destination, click on the image. It'll redirect you to the page for that specific tour, where you'll get all the information that your need to know about it.
When you're on the tour pages, make sure to glance over the itineraries, traveler photos, and reviews, as well as the available dates and their corresponding prices. Also, make sure to check the trip type and activity level under the photos.
You don't want to unintentionally book a high-activity level tour. Make sure you read all of the details before you press confirm. All of these factors mentioned should be plenty of information to help you choose which tour is best for you.
Flights
When you have chosen your destination and travel dates, the website will then ask for your departure city in the U.S. Though flights are always included with given rates on the site, you don't need to book them through EF unless you want to.
I recommend booking your flight with the tour for a hassle-free, seamless experience. Not only that, but EF will also provide you with transportation from the airport to your initial accommodation and then back again when it's time for you to go back home.
If you choose this option, the company will choose the flights and the airline for you. For those who prefer to book their own flights, there will be an option to do so during your booking. You'll also be given the option to add travel protection and extra excursions.
The excursions may not all sound interesting to you, but I highly recommend that you get travel insurance. It will come in handy in case you get sick, hurt, or lose your travel documents during your trip.
Accommodations
Also during the booking process, you'll be given choices for accommodations depending on what type of tour you decided to book. EF Ultimate Break tours feature multiple levels of accommodation, allowing travelers to explore without breaking their budget.
As I mentioned before, the type of accommodations you'll stay in will depend on what type of tour you book - Plus or Essential. However, during your booking, you will get the chance to upgrade to a single room or choose your roommates if you're traveling with friends.
Cost & Payment
If you're wondering how much money you will spend on your trip, it will all depend on your destination, the type of trip that you book, and any extra activities that you chose to do when you're there.
The total price shown for each tour includes round-trip flights, accommodations, transportation, activities that are included in the itinerary, and a welcome and farewell dinner. Shorter trips are typically cheaper for obvious reasons.
You'll have to pay extra for any additional lunch or dinner foods that you want, but breakfast is typically included. You will also have to cover the cost of any activity that you decide to do on your own.
Luckily, the company offers several payment methods to help travelers afford all those future moments and memories that they'll make on their tour.
You can choose to pay for your tour in full or through a payment plan. With multiple payment plans available, do not hesitate to visit their website for more details.
What to Expect During Your Trip
Now for the best part - your amazing tour! EF literally makes sure that your journey begins way before you arrive at your destination.
Before your departure, you'll download the EF Ultimate Break app, where you'll find information about your own trip and get connected with your fellow travelers. There will also be a checklist of things you'll need to do before your trip, like applying for a visa if you need one.
If you're on the fence about downloading the app, just do it. Every piece of information you need to know for your trip, including flights, accommodations, full itineraries, and support contacts can be found within the app. It'll make your trip even better.
Upon your arrival, an EF Ultimate Break representative will be waiting to greet you and other travelers at the airport if you booked your flight ticket with the company.
From there, they'll take you to your first accommodation so that you can meet with your tour guide - whose goal is to make sure that everyone enjoys the experience, all while keeping you safe.
These tour directors are ever-curious explorers who speak multiple languages and are also experienced group leaders. They will be with you throughout the entire trip, so get to know them well.
As travelers will come from all corners of the U.S., they'll arrive at various times during the day. Therefore, Day One is mainly reserved for arrivals and hotel check-ins. You'll eventually get to meet everyone at the welcome dinner.
Below is a photo of our group for the Spanish Road Trip tour. There were travelers from all over the country, and about half of us were traveling solo. A good portion of the group had also already traveled with EF before taking this tour.
For solo travelers that opted to share a room, you'll be paired with like-minded travelers of the same gender who are close in age. As I mentioned before, a majority of Ultimate Break travelers are young adults. As your tour progresses and hotels change, you will have the opportunity to pick new roommates each time.
If you booked a tour that includes different destinations, you'll either be traveling by coach bus, train, or airplane. It all depends on the distance between each location. Your tour director will handle all transportation and you'll simply just have to follow them.
As part of your journey, you'll have a comprehensive schedule that features all sorts of daily activities and is supervised by your tour guide. However, if any activity doesn't pique your interest, it's entirely up to you whether or not to participate.
Depending on what type of trip you choose to book, you'll also have some time throughout the trip to do your own thing. Essential trips are a little different and tend to be super fast-paced.
After all the fun and adventure you'll have, EF Ultimate Break will make sure to drop you off at the airport in advance so that you won't miss your flight. I guarantee you will leave with unforgettable memories and long-lasting friendships.
Is EF Ultimate Break Worth It?
The only thing I absolutely regret is not booking a trip sooner. Even though I booked last minute, my first trip with EF was an incredible experience. I took the Spanish Road Trip tour on my own and opted to room with people so it would be easier to make new friends.
I had so much fun, got to see so much of Spain, and met so many incredible like-minded people. Going on these types of travel experiences gives you the opportunity to venture out into the world and make new connections with different people. Just an hour after landing back home, my new friends and I were already planning our next trip.
My Recommendations
Before you book your first EF trip, here are a few helpful tips and things you should know.
It's best to book at least three months before your trip departs. This will give you plenty of time to complete all the items on your checklist, especially if you need a visa.
You can make trip changes with no extra fees up to 60 days before departure, only if you got travel protection during checkout.
If you book the same trip as I did my first time (Spanish Road Trip), keep in mind that you'll be traveling for long hours by coach bus. Bring snacks, a neck pillow, and something to watch/read during your trip.
Sometimes tours for specific dates can get canceled due to low enrollment. If this happens to you, they will give you the option of rebooking a different trip around a similar date. You can find more information about the rescheduling process in the "Booking Conditions" section of their website.
For more information about refunds, read their cancellation policy.
Tour Reviews
From new to experienced travelers, thousands of people choose to travel with EF every year. The company has been featured in several places like Buzzfeed, The New York Times, and Travel+Leisure.
If you're still doubting if this is all a scam, just check out these Ultimate Break reviews from fellow travelers.
"Everything about the trip was awesome, the people I met, Andreas our guide, dinners, free time, views, just the overall experience is something I've never had and will never forget and don't know if it will ever be topped! " – Regis (The Greek Islands)
"This trip is perfect! It's a shorter trip to fit into your work schedule, while still seeing so much of Iceland. I went in September and the weather was beautiful and we got lucky and saw the Northern Lights, twice, right outside of our hotel by the water. Our tour guide, David, was great." – Kimberly (Iceland Summer Escape)
"Amazing people. Memorable experiences. I was hesitant to travel alone, but this was great. Meeting strangers all on the same page, then becoming friends at the end- it's a priceless thing." – Junsheng (Costa Rica Adventure)
So, if you're looking for a unique group travel experience that’s both safe and exciting, EF Ultimate Break has got you covered! However, if you're still skeptical about taking that leap and finally booking the trip you've always dreamed of, I'm here to answer any unwavering questions you may have.
If you've read all the way to the end – I admire you. Nowadays, majority of people can't focus long enough to read for over a minute. To thank you for staying with us all the way through, here is a one-time coupon link to get $100 off your first EF Ultimate Break trip: https://www.efultimatebreak.com/?ba=UAYllara100.
Click the link and the discount will be automatically applied to your booking at check out. Good luck and I hope your trip is as life changing as mine was. Happy travels!
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