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David Bishop, travel agent of Kincaid Coaches -- Tours recently had to do some research for a couple of clients that had always planned to go to Europe some day. What they discovered in their research was that an escorted tour of Europe gave the couple the most value while still allowing flexibility. Most Americans will want at least one traveling experience to Europe in their lifetime. For the first time traveler or those wanting a general tour of Europe, choosing an escort tour is the least expensive and most comprehensive way to accomplish this trip.

The important questions to consider involves what countries to see, what tour to take, how much should to spend and what tour operator best meets your needs.

Among all of the European Tour Operators available, a family run operator in the Midwest is stands out from the rest. Image Tours, located in Grand Rapids, Mich., has specialized in high quality, low cost, fully escorted tours for over 69 years.

Image will operate 12 different tours in 2008 and features the nationally recognized Heart of Europe tour now in its 48th year. This is a fully escorted, 15 day, seven country, sight-seeing adventure that highlights Holland, Belgium, Germany, Austria, Italy, Switzerland and France. The tour is perfect for first time travelers to Europe as well as anyone looking for a great vacation value. Additional days in Paris and/or London can also be arranged.

The itinerary has been carefully designed to take in as much as possible while maintaining a comfortable pace. There are four 2-night stay-overs and the average time between stops is only one-half fours. Plenty of free time is available during the tour and you can also customize your experience by taking advantage of the specially selected optional excursions operated by Image Tours.

More than 3,000 people purchase the Heart of Europe tour each year. The tours are priced from $3,040 and include land and air from Oklahoma City (plus air taxes and fees). Baggage handling, transfers and service charges are included.

Start planning by requesting the most interesting travel brochure in the business. Enjoy reading the detailed description of the tour, including information on how to get a [passport.

Kincaid Coaches -- Tours is Image Tours' representative in the Norman area. To request a brochure or answer questions, call Bishop at 324-9888.