My mother is coming over in November for a visit. My father just died and this is her first experience travelling alone. While I can spend some time with her while she is here, I have other responsibilities that do not allow me to leave the country. She wants to spend a few days and see the neighbouring countries like Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam.

She is looking for a respectable tour group with good English speaking guides and quality, Western style hotels. I am also concerned for her safety, as she is not an experienced globe trotter. If she is going to do this, I want to make sure she is well taken care of, and preferably have other Americans in the group she can turn to for support if there are any issues.

Can anyone suggest an appropriate package for her? A few days in each country would be sufficient. Just the highlights and then come back to Thailand.

Most tourists around here just do it themselves...it's so easy to travel. But I can understand your Mother's desire to be part of a group. Especially since it is her first time. My uncle did a trip with Grand Circle Travel last year. It is oriented towards older travelers.

http://www.gct.com/

Another one to try, and I've heard from participants that they are good, is:

http://www.smartours.net/

These sites have lots of tours listed, but I'm afraid the people tend to be younger. Some in their early 20's. But it might be worth a look:

www.adventurecenter.com

Here's a good article on tour groups for older travelers:

http://blog.ratestogo.com/senior-tours/

And here are some I have encountered while researching various trips I wanted to take:

http://www.gate1travel.com/

http://www.generaltours.com/

I can't personally vouch for any, as I am an independent traveler type...but hope they help out!

I can truly recommend Arosa Travel here in Bangkok for any kind of individual tours in Thailand and surrounding countries.

The owner, Mr. Weingand is a Swiss national and I believe more than 20 year in Bangkok.

Very professional and reliable company. You will be in good hands.

Mr. Weingand and his Thai wife speak perfect English.

http://www.arosatravel.com

AROSA TRAVEL SERVICE CO., LTD.

559/19 Thanapat Haus, Nonsi Road, Chong Nonsee,

Yannawa Bangkok 10120 Thailand

Tel: +66(0) 2284-3833

Fax: +66(0) 2284-3830

Email: [email protected]