For an introvert and a loner (same person) organized group tours represent a specific kind of dread. At least in theory. But the enthusiasm and friendliness of other participants instantly disarms you. Yes, there will be long stretches of time when you are standing on tired feet supporting an aching back as you strain to hear a guide describe distant historical events over the din of schoolchildren roaming wild. Or long lines to reach a popular tourist attraction when time stands dead still. But very quickly (sometime past the halfway point of the first day) you feel a kinship with your fellow travellers, smiling at each other as you catch their eyes or sharing the gentle absurdity of walking around a 19th Century palace in full period costume, complete with tall wide-brimmed hats. Everyone compliments each other and means it. "I got a good group," you think to yourself. And of course, you're right.