A True Family Affair: Private Adventures with O.A.T.

Posted on 12/23/2025 05:00:00 AM in Traveler Spotlight

By Shelley Bagg, 30-time traveler from Orinda, CA

We have 10 people in our immediate family and the thought of planning an international vacation for ten people makes me pull the covers over my head. That is why we leave the details to O.A.T. We have them schedule a private trip. They take care of lodging, meals, schedules, transportation, tickets and throw in a seasoned guide to help with any contingencies. All I have to do is show up and enjoy!

We started traveling internationally when the youngest were seven. They had to be able to follow directions and have some emotional control. Remember, the guides are NOT babysitters and this is NOT family camp. You are responsible for your children’s behavior.

Our first trip was to Costa Rica. A great kids trip. Wildlife, horseback riding, zip lining, and river rafting. What’s not to enjoy?

Our next trip, when the youngest were 11, was to Ultimate Africa.  We were joined on that trip by another 3-generation family of friends giving us a compliment of 16 travelers.

Then just last year, when the youngest were 12, we switched from animals to culture and went to Egypt over Christmas break. Our friends joined us, having become converts to O.A.T. That was an amazing trip as well.

This Christmas we will be planning our next adventure!

Perhaps you’ll follow in Shelley’s footsteps with your own family on Egypt & the Eternal Nile by Private, Classic River-Yacht. Learn more about our Private Adventures here.

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Related Video:

Egypt & the Eternal Nile—2026 Itinerary

See a detailed overview of this itinerary, including pre- and post-trip extensions and adventure highlights.

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