With apologies to my folks re: family trips growing up, Red Carpet was, bar none, the most enjoyable and enlightening group travel I've ever done.

The Jameses (proprietors and guides) provide an amazing mix of personal (knew us by name, asked and learned about our specific interests and quirks, literally "hung out" with us as part of the the tour community) and professional (handled everything, knew their stuff). Their genuine hospitality and encyclopedic knowledge of film, locations and culture made the (stunningly gorgeous) sights and LOTR stops only part of the trip's enjoyment.

And their approach attracts wonderful tour-goers to share the experience. I'm still in touch with everyone from my tour.

I can't recommend them enough; I'd repeat the same tour annually if I could.

Reviewed about 14 years ago and experienced in May 2007