Choosing a package tour for Worlds?

[snoopysnake]

I am interested in going to the 2006 Worlds in Calgary and am wondering if I should look into a package tour or just get tickets on my own and make my own travel and lodging arrangements.

What has your experience been using package tours? (Colonial, Dash, etc.)

Any companies that you recommend or advise against?

[cygnus]

I am interested in going to the 2006 Worlds in Calgary and am wondering if I should look into a package tour or just get tickets on my own and make my own travel and lodging arrangements.

What has your experience been using package tours? (Colonial, Dash, etc.)

Any companies that you recommend or advise against?

I've used Colonial a couple of times, and had great time each time. Tours are pricier, of course, but for a country such as Russia, I really wouldn't go any other way. For a trip within Canada or the US, I would look at the hotel prices and check how much more expensive a tour would be. And the bus from the rink to the hotel is a nice convenience too!

The tour groups, especially for worlds, tend to get the good seats (along with the corporate sponsers). Even on the first day, you will probably not get a great seat if you book on your own, unless you are very lucky. So it depends on where you want to sit, and whether or not you want to make your own arrangements.

I'm still undecided on whether or not I will go to Calgary on my own or with a tour too. But I am going to Moscow with Colonial.

[SkaterBrett]

Dash Tours is pretty expensive for '06 and all of their seats are in the 2nd level too! They might be able to move you down spring of 05 but for an extra fee if tickets are available.

Hotels in Calgary starts at $98/night and most of the downtown hotels are $189 - $289/night.

WestJet pretty wells owns the Calgary routes and often have great seat sales...

Most tour packages are running around the same pricing....

Note that there are only 13 rows available in the bottom section of the rink. Row 14 is the beginning of Level 2. I think row 14 is reserved for VIP guests. The media are taking up most of the end zone by the Kiss & Cry. Only a few rows are available above them.

[terisalyn]

I've traveled on a tour package from Silver Blades, and I highly recommend them. For an international trip, I think a tour package is the best way to go. You won't have to hassle with language, currency, and distance difficulties in making your arrangements. Most of them will include some optional sightseeing, in case you are one of those people who want to actually get out of the arena for a few minutes!

[RobinA]

I've used Colonial in the past and have nothing but good things to say about them. Unfortunately they have gotten quite pricy and I have struck out on my own and saved many thousands of dollars.

If you have never been to an event before I would suggest using a tour to get the lay of the land. After a tour or two you probably know enough about where the trouble areas are, what you like and don't like, to do it yourself.

I would probably consider using a tour again if I went overseas. I would at least compare prices. I'm willing to pay some money for the convenience, but when the price of the DC Worlds came through at $4500 I said enough. I then had to order my own tickets relatively late and they ended up being quite good. My feelings about tickets are helped by the fact that I don't like the seats that are traditionally considered "best" - center ice, first row. I prefer on a corner about 10 rows up. Your mileage may vary.