Group Trips: They’re Not Just for the Ladies
Let's address the elephant in the room: when people hear "group travel," they often picture a bunch of women in flowy dresses taking photos for Instagram. And look, there's often some truth to that stereotype on my trips (minus me asking anyone to wear flowy anything – come as you are, folks).
But here's the thing – men join my trips too. And not just as reluctant plus-ones dragged along by their partners. Actual solo adventurers who want authentic travel experiences without dealing with all the logistics bullshit that comes with planning a trip to places like Morocco or Cuba.
I've had guys from their 30s to their 60s join my trips, and contrary to what some might think, they don't end up feeling like the awkward token male at a bachelorette party. These trips aren't designed only for women – they're designed for travelers who want to experience a place beyond the tourist traps and resort bubbles.
So for all the guys out there wondering if my trips are "for them" – let me introduce you to two of the men who've traveled with me and had a damn good time doing it: Vince (Cuba + Colombia) and Rich (Cuba). They recently shared their experiences exploring new cultures and destinations with Laura Ericson Group Trips, and their stories offer fresh insights into what makes group travel uniquely rewarding.
Rich fully immersing himself during our Havana walking tour.
Laura Ericson Group Trips: What inspired you to try a group travel experience?
Vince: I didn't have any hesitations. I knew Laura and had trusted her experience and reputation.
Rich: I used to work with Laura and followed her travel business on Instagram for a couple years before taking the dive. When the trip for Cuba came up, I was intrigued and signed up. I really didn't have any hesitations.
Our group enjoying the sunset at an agroecological farm in Viñales.
LEGT: How does this compare to your usual travel style?
Vince: I typically travel alone, domestically, but occasionally with friends and family. I travel for work frequently and solo occasionally, visiting places I've never been.
Rich: I've spent time in Haiti and Honduras but don't normally do a lot of traveling. The typical vacation experience of traveling to a resort and typical tour experiences holds no appeal for me. I love the way Laura structures her trips.
Vince soaking in his ride in a classic car through the Cuban countryside.
LEGT: What makes these trips stand out?
Vince: I think it's worth mentioning that the group sizes seem to be the perfect size. Not too many where you are doing head counts or splitting up and getting lost, but not too little where you feel like you're being smothered.
Rich: These trips are completely different from the typical travel experience. There is nothing 'touristy' about the experience.
Group dinner in Havana at a local paladar.
Rich and other trip goers riding in style in a classic car convertible.
LEGT: Tell us about the group dynamic - how did everyone connect?
Vince: For both trips I took, the groups seemed to bond immediately. There's not really 'cliques,' and everybody is willing to help and support each other.
Rich: Different personalities provide opportunities to listen and learn about someone new with which you might not otherwise have the chance. It adds to the uniqueness of the trip. By the end of the first day, you're already building friendships with the group.
The whole crew hanging at the tobacco farm with the cowboys.
Rich hanging out with the Cuban cowboys after a homecooked meal on the farm.
LEGT: How do you feel about the balance between group activities and personal time?
Vince: Laura's trips have a good balance of group activities and personal time. I don't necessarily try to do everything on the travel itinerary. I sometimes like to stay back and enjoy some alone time while the group is off on an adventure.
Rich: The structured activities/personal time balance was excellent.
Rich spending time on a Cuban farm.
LEGT: What moments really stood out to you?
Vince: On my trips to Cuba and Colombia with Laura, I got to know not only my fellow travelers, but also the real people of the country. It's more eye-opening to understand people in this light, to empathize more and laugh harder with them.
Rich: Horse riding out to the tobacco farm was definitely a highlight.
Vince and two trip goers ringing in the New Year in Havana.
LEGT: Did you discover any new interests or skills during your travels?
Vince: I've certainly become more patient with people, putting myself more in their shoes. I'm also great at making Cuban mojitos and selecting Colombian coffee.
Rich: I really enjoyed learning about Cuban culture and have continued to read up on Cuban life since returning.
LEGT: How has this experience influenced your future travel plans?
Vince: These experiences encouraged me to explore more abroad, but also helped me better understand that traveling to countries with language barriers can be more complicated alone than with a group.
Rich: The type of trip Laura provides is an amazing way to experience a new country. I'll definitely be traveling with Laura again.
Rich getting his first travel tattoo—a map of Cuba.
Enjoying a drink with Vince in Havana.
LEGT: Any advice for someone considering this type of travel?
Vince: Pull the trigger, Laura spends time on making trips perfect so you don't have to do it.
Rich: Just do it. You won't be disappointed. Everyone on the trip is eager to bond and we all find common ground navigating new experiences.
Vince getting a quick haircut by a barber on the streets of Havana.
Celebrating New Years in Havana.
The Takeaway
So if you've been scrolling through group travel options thinking it's all yoga retreats and wine tastings designed exclusively for women, think again. My trips are built for anyone who values real experiences over resort pampering, who wants to actually meet locals instead of just photographing them, and who'd rather share stories over dinner with new friends than eat room service alone.
Men, women, non-binary folks – everyone's welcome here. The only requirement is that you come with an open mind and a willingness to try something new. Whether you're looking to get lost in a Moroccan medina, dance salsa in Cuba, or feed wild monkeys in India, you'll find yourself surrounded by like-minded travelers of all genders who just want to see the world for what it really is.
Ready to write your own travel story? Learn more about upcoming Laura Ericson Group Trips and join our community of curious, open-minded travelers.
