If you're not going until next year, you have plenty of time! The bus can get very crowded, it has been beyond standing-room-only when my wife and I went, she ended up sitting in my lap because there was absolutely no room to squeeze even one more person on the bus. It can get very tight, so if you're claustrophobic or have a problem touching strangers, it might not be for you. It also starts off quietly, but once you've done a few stops and people have had a few drinks it can get loud and boisterous. I've seen people who didn't know what to expect not have a good time because they either didn't realize how crowded the bus would be, how much drinking would be happening, and how crazy some people get when drunk... An older couple on our last visit was visibly upset and didn't last beyond the 3rd or 4th stop...which is when it started to get really fun! This is not a trip for those who don't drink, and can't tolerate being around people who are drinking and having a good time...