we had a Bike Friday Tandem Traveler XL II. Overal, I would say were very satisfied. Used the bike for 8 years, and sold it for close to what we paid for it.
The big advantage is all the flexibility in sizing, and the ability to pack it for traveling.
Downsides; 1) we found it a bit flexible with 2 adult riders really getting after it,
2) it was a fair amount of work to break down and pack. At least as much, if not more than a conventional tandem with S&S couplers.
For the purposes you've identified I think it's a good choice. However realize there are some trade offs.