UPDATED: (I've included my original review below)
To preface, we booked this tour for 14 people. At no point during our booking was it made an issue that this tour would perhaps not be the best fit a larger group . While I understand the difficulties in managing the volume level of any group larger than six, I will say that I have been in situations where the matter as been handled with grace. For example, when we received our initial noise-complaint the tour guide said, "can you all be quiet so other can hear what the h** is going on?" This was the first attempt to communicate with my party, and I will say it was harsh given the tone in which it was delivered. However, after a later conversation with the tour guide and throughout the day, the environment grew less hostile.
Look. I understand that everyone "paid good money" to take the tour; however, at no point in time did we present as uncompromising nor were we unwilling to adjust our volume. We were keen on managing our volume when appropriate. I find it unsettling that Gray Line would have a representative of the company suggest otherwise and urge me to strongly reconsider an honest review.
Although criticisms may not always be well-received, reviews are meant to be subjective, and I will say, as the subject writhing this review, there were moments early on during the tour where we did experience micro-aggressive behavior, but that did not impede us from enjoying the rest of our day. I would love to leave a higher rating, but unfortunately, there were enough shortcomings yesterday for me to leave a lower rating.
Overall, great tour and wonderful way to explore wine country! Met some lovely folks yesterday (tour guide and driver included, and I mean that sincerely). Highly recommend as a fun day trip.
Original Review:
This tour is very micro aggressive and internationally undercuts people of color. My friends and I (14 Black people) went on a tour and the tour guide insinuated that simply because we were conversing among one another, we were disrupting the tour for those who had paid “good money to be here.” I find It very offensive That she would surmise that my friends and I did not. Otherwise, great day, tour guides need some work.
Response from Host
Oct 2021
Hello Archellete,
Thanks for your review and for amending the accusation of being hostile to black people. This was the only portion of your review that we asked to be reconsidered, and it is clear that you understood it in this way as well, based on your amendment.
Our tour is open to different group sizes as long as the behavior does not disturb the experience of the other customers that join the tour. Unfortunately in your case, we received complaints from 4 different members in your tour.
On the other hand, I appreciate that you rate the tour as great and a wonderful way to explore the wine country.
Regards
Xavier
General Manager
Gray Line San Francisco