Meals While Touring

Posted on Wednesday, June 03, 2009

Many clients wonder what the differences are when traveling with a budget, first class or deluxe tour operator. As we have discussed in previous posts, a lot has to do with the type of accommodations used, the location of the hotels, the number of people on the tour and how much is included in the price (i.e. sightseeing, meals, etc.)

Today our focus is to explain the difference in meals.  In most cases, on a budget tour you will receive continental breakfast. This is a basic breakfast of usually consisting of cereals, pastries, juice and coffee. Once you take a first class tour and above, breakfast is normally buffet. This offers the widest choices, quickest service and as much or as little food as you desire.

Budget tours rarely include dinners, and when they do, it is normally in the hotel. First class tour operators offer a combination of both hotel dinners and some dining at local restaurants. However, there is usually a limited menu. It includes 3 to 5 courses with a more limited choice of appetizer, entrees and desserts. We are not suggesting the food is bad, on the contrary, frequently the limited menu includes the chef's freshest market specials of the day and takes less time to serve.

Dining is a delightful and integral part of the travel experience when traveling abroad. Deluxe and luxury operators select restaurants that offer a true taste of each region you visit, and offer full choice of menu to include a starter course (hot & cold appetizer, soup or salad,) main course, dessert and beverage. You’ll savor a delectable assortment of classic dishes and regional specialties. Many meals include wine with dinner and at times entertainment.

Regardless of which tour you book, gratuities to the wait staff are included. For lunches and evenings that meals are not included, the knowledgeable tour directors can assist you in finding dining options based on your the type of food you want to have and your budget.

How Fast Can You Get a Passport?

Posted on Monday, November 10, 2008

There are over 8.8 million applicants for US passports each year.  For that reason, there are around 7,000 passport offices in the country. Generally it takes around 3 to 4 weeks to get a passport. But what if you need to travel soon? If you have 2 weeks, you can usually get an appointment at one of the 13 regional passport offices and get the passport sooner.

Need it even faster? Perhaps "immediately" like one of our clients who arrived at the airport only to realize his passport had expired? You can use ItsEasypassport.com who can usually get you a passport the same day, or within 24 hours. They work in conjunction with US Passport offices in New York, Washington D.C., San Francisco, Houston and other major U.S. cities & even have an office at the JFK airport. The fee for same-day service for a new passport or renewal, is currently from $249 plus standard government passport fees.

Travel Tips: Packing

Posted on Wednesday, October 15, 2008

Common question asked by clients:

How can they possibly travel for a length of time with just one suitcase not to exceed 50 lbs & one carry-on?

Answer:

You would be surprised how many things can be packed and not exceed 50 lbs. There are some wonderful no wrinkle, light weight fabrics for traveling and you don't need a pair of shoes for each outfit. When staying in the same hotel for more than 1 night, you can take advantage of the laundry facilities they have to offer.

Make a list before packing and make sure to mix and match outfits. Always pack tightly. Scarf or jewelry can change the look or a blouse. Packing loosely will waste space and cause clothes to wrinkle from moving around. Use all the space you have available to you, such as putting socks & under garments inside of shoes.

You can get a great packing list from Frommers.

Keep in mind that the airlines are changing their restrictions and charges often these days. Make sure and go to their web site or call a couple of weeks before travel to get the latest information.

When will I receive my tour documents ?

Posted on Thursday, October 09, 2008

Clients often ask when they will get "more" information about their tour. I always tell them after final payment is made, they will receive their documents delivered to their home by UPS 2 to 3 weeks prior to travel, and not to expect anything from the tour operator in the interim.

There are exceptions, especially with adventure trips or luxury travel, where preliminary documents are sent, as well as personal registration forms to be filled out.

You will of course always receive written confirmations from us for your records.

What day does my tour start ?

Posted on Wednesday, October 08, 2008

Just thought of another confusing question among clients. What day does the tour begin?

Day 1 with the budget and first class tours is "always" the overnight flight to Europe, arriving on Day 2 - this means Day 2 is your first hotel night.

Day 1 with the Deluxe & Luxury Tours is the day you arrive in Europe to start your tour.

With US and Canada tours, day 1 is the day your tour begins.

With other exotic destinations such as South America, Asia and Australia, please check with you agent, as there could be as many as 1 to 2 days for the flight over.