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WHAT YOU MAY LIKE TO KNOW ABOUT YOUR VACATION BEFORE YOU GO
What exactly is included in my vacation?
The true value of your vacation is in the accurate detailed vacation description, on the websites and in the brochures, that is unusually specific and specifies accommodation, touring in deluxe coaches, sightseeing and included meals. The agenda for each day is spelled out with exactly what is included in the price. Sightseeing with local guides is clearly listed. Inside visits and special features are spelled out in UPPERCASE.
How hectic is my vacation going to be?
Globus Family of Brands offers over 400 vacations and while some are very leisurely paced other are hectic or medium paced. Typically, Panorama vacations covering more countries / cities in a short duration make a vacation quick paced and Regional Discoveries are medium to leisurely pace. Every vacation has a pace meter indicating it’s pace on the brochure & website.
How long will we be on the road everyday? How often does the coach stop enroute?
Driving time varies for each vacation. It depends on the itinerary and the driving distance is mentioned in the travel documents. You can also request this information in advance. When driving between cities, the coach stops after every 1 and a half to 2 hours at places where you can pick up a snack / meal and use washrooms. Most vacations do not include drives from one city to another everyday.
How early does one have to wake up on the vacations?
The wake-up call differs based on the type of vacation, the season when you are travelling, the city that you are in and even the weather. Wake up timings are not the same for each day and the Tour Director will advise you of these once the tour starts. Early starts offer the advantage of reaching sightseeing spots before the rush starts and this leaves you free the rest of the day giving you more time to enjoy the destination and to do as you please.
Can I get Indian / Vegetarian / Special cuisine on request while on tour?
Our vacations strive to introduce you to the authentic flavours so you can enjoy the destination in a deeper way. Therefore, meals included are usually local or continental. None of the vacations include Indian or other speciality Asian cuisine. Breakfast is included in most vacations, with the exception of Cosmos North America, though some of these vacations offer optional breakfasts that can be purchased at the time of booking the tour. Please request vegetarian meals with the Tour Director when on tour and this can usually be accommodated when requested in good time. When meals are not included, you may choose an Indian restaurant, on your own, in European and North American cities. In certain countries and regions such as National Parks of North America, it may be difficult to find Indian or occasionally even vegetarian food. The exact number of meals included on your tour is clearly specified on the itinerary and is different for each vacation.
Who will be my travel companions?
Our vacations are very popular worldwide and the demographic profile of travellers is varied. Your fellow travellers will include many nationalities including American, English, Canadian, Australian, Kiwi, Japanese, Thai, Indian and many others. They are usually of varied ages and professional backgrounds. This is a wonderful opportunity to make friends from people across the world.
Are prices published in the brochure / on the website guaranteed?
Prices quoted in the brochure / website are based on rates and taxes – including all important foreign exchange rates – known at the time of costing. They are subject to increase without notice if rates or taxes change substantially & current price will be confirmed at the time you book your vacation. Once we receive your deposit, the land price is guaranteed. 2010 prices and itineraries are subject to change.
Do vacation prices include tips to Tour Directors, Drivers & Local Guides?
It is customary worldwide to pay tips to Tour Directors and Drivers on all International vacations. However, vacation prices do not include tips and we recommend that these are paid at the end of the tour as per international norms at the suggested gratuity as mentioned in the travel documents. For 2009 vacations, you may also pre-purchase gratuity at the time of booking so you don’t have to budget for spending this at the end of the tour.
What is the difference between a twin-bedded room and a double room?
A double room is a room designed to accommodate two people, though not necessarily with two separate beds. A twin-bedded room has two separate beds of any size; this is what we usually reserve for our travelers.
How are optional tours booked?
The Tour Director / Local host / Cruise Director will go through the optional excursions for purchase while you are on tour. Approximate costs and descriptions of possible optional tours are mentioned on our websites and in the travel documents to enable you to budget for the same. They can be booked and paid for on tour only. Some optional tours mentioned in your travel documents may not operate due to weather, minimum participation, and other operational reasons.
When will I receive my travel documents?
Travel Documents are sent approximately two to three weeks prior to departure, provided full payment has been received. If available, a service charge per reservation is added for documents requested in advance.
What airline can I fly? Is the arrival and departure transfer arranged for all vacations?
You may fly any airline of choice based on what is recommended by your travel agent and that suits the dates of your travel. Airport transfers may be purchased on all land-only reservations provided the arrival and departure timings are within the scheduled airport transfer times as specified for the particular vacation. The timings can be checked by your travel agent. Transfers are not available for non-brochure dates but can be arranged if purchased with pre/post nites. Transfers cannot be provided if joining late or leaving early. Your travel agent will be able to provide you with information on availability and prices of transfers at the time of booking. Transfers will be provided only if confirmed by Globus Family of brands. Transfers will be provided only if confirmed by Globus family of brands. Look for confirmation of your transfer in the travel documents.
What is the cancellation policy if I have to cancel? How can I protect against cancellation?
Cancellation policy differs based on the tour and the time of cancellation. Guidelines of our cancellation policy are available in the brochure, website and with your travel agent. You can protect yourself against cancellation charges by purchasing a Trip Protection from the Globus Family of Brands. This is at an additional charge and details are available with your travel agent and on the brochure and website. It is optional for you to purchase Trip Protection and is not included in the standard vacation price. It cannot be added after the tour is guaranteed for payment. We recommend that this and a comprehensive insurance policy, be purchased for your vacation.
Does Globus family of brands offer a Travel Protection/Insurance plan for purchase or is a plan included in the vacation price?
In certain countries & regions, the Globus family of brands offers Trip Protection / Insurance that protects against trip cancellation, delay and interruption. This is not a comprehensive travel protection and only provides coverage on Globus family of brands trips, in case you have to cancel or leave early due to covered reasons. It is optional for you to purchase and is not included in the standard vacation price. We do recommend that this, as well as a comprehensive Travel Protection/Insurance policy, be purchased for the duration of your vacation.
Why is it important that I give my name as it appears on my passport?
We do not allow a change in names of passengers at any time after the booking is made. Due to increased travel security around the world, it is now more important than ever that your bookings with airlines, hotels, cruise liners, etc. match your first and last name exactly as it reads on your passport. Additionally, any changes, which include spelling, may be subject to a change fee, penalty, or cancellation. We also recommend a minimum of three blank pages in your passport for stamps while traveling.
Does Globus Family of Brands provide visa assistance service?
With the exception of Russian visa letter which is provided at an additional charge, we do not give any hotel vouchers for any visas. For Globus’ Russia & Northern Europe (Tour Code RR), which requires Russian, Belarus and Schengen Visa, Globus could also help in getting a Belarus visa while on tour at a charge. The Globus family of brands takes no responsibility for obtaining or notifying travellers about visas required for any vacation. Please pay special attention to certain tours that need more than one visa, i.e. Spain & Portugal (Tour 6820) needs Schengen Visa & UK Visa for Gibraltar. Some US Vacations visiting Niagara Falls (Tour 8000) require both a US and Canada visa.
What size can my suitcase be?
TheDue to limited coach capacity, your bag should have dimensions not exceeding 30”x21”x11” (62” linear dimensions) or weight exceeding 50 lb. Carry-on bags should not exceed the dimensions of 12”x11”x6”. We
regret we are unable to accept a second suitcase or any luggage exceeding these limits (except on cruises).
How is seating determined on the coach?
We offer daily rotation of seating, which gives everyone a variety of views. The rotation is mandatory and is adhered by everyone.
What benefit do I get booking two back-to-back tours together or taking 2 tours in a year?
Clients who take two or more vacations in the same calendar year (January – December) qualify for a reduction on all vacations after the initial vacation. The reductions are per person for Globus is $35, for Cosmos is $25, for Monograms is $35 and Avalon Waterways is $35.
How can I make the most of my vacation?
Our vacations endeavour to immerse you in the local destination experience with regional Tour
Directors and are of international standards and quality. Your travel companions include people from all parts of the world and being friendly and a part of the group activities, rather than being on your own, makes it more enjoyable for all. You will have free time for your own activities as well. Showing respect to cultural differences often gets respect in return. It is also imperative that you maintain punctuality at all times, for departure timings, optional tours and meeting times so that everyone, including you can maximise on the tour experience. Keep an open mind and exhibit attitudes that set a positive example of our nation outside - every citizen is a country’s ambassador, especially when travelling overseas!
It’s in your interest to book early.
Book your vacation as soon as possible to guard against not finding space on the vacation of your choice. Many Globus family of brands vacations sell out months before departure.
IT IS LIKELY THAT YOU MAY HAVE MORE QUESTIONS THAN THE ONES WE HAVE LISTED ABOVE.
PLEASE FEEL FREE TO ASK YOUR TRAVEL AGENT OR CONTACT US ON 1-800-4253575 OR EMAIL US AT india@globusfamily.com
TRAVEL ETIQUETTES
A vacation with the Globus family of brands is a great time to unwind, indulge in local customs, learn about the fascinating history of ancient civilisations, and discover lasting friendships along the way. As you enjoy every moment of your vacation, remembering a few simple travel tips can ensure that you come back with many happy memories!
BEFORE YOU GO
READ YOUR TRAVEL DOCUMENTS & THE BROCHURE: Sometimes, preparing for a vacation tires you before the vacation starts—what to pack, how much money to carry, emergency telephone numbers, exchange rate, and the list goes on. About 2-3 weeks before your vacation, the Globus family of brands will send you a set of travel documents that will help answer many of these questions. They contain comprehensive information, including a detailed itinerary, inclusions, optional excursions, hotel information, currency, weather, shopping tips, arrival and departure information, and much more. Prior to your journey, it is very important that you read your travel documents and the brochure in detail, so that you know exactly what to expect on your vacation, what you are paying for, and so that you can look forward to it with a big smile.
YOUR TOUR DIRECTOR & DRIVER
TRAINED & KNOWLEDGEABLE TOUR DIRECTORS: Every Globus family of brands vacation is special because of the experienced, knowledgeable, and motivated Tour Directors who escort each tour. These friendly professionals are respected immensely, are trained in dealing with people from different cultures and backgrounds, and work hard to provide you an enjoyable and hassle-free vacation. They will tell you delightful stories, give local insights, and work behind the scenes so that operational details are taken care of for the next day of the journey.
EN-TOUR ASSISTANCE: If you have an issue, please approach your Tour Director rather than waiting for the situation to escalate, waiting until the end of the tour to bring it up, not bringing it up at all, or discussing it with others. The only person who can help resolve any situation, if you need it, is your Tour Director. At the same time, be reasonable and understand that s/he is managing a large group, and that everyone wants a wonderful and happy travel experience—including your Tour Director!
WHAT YOUR DRIVER DOES FOR YOU: Your driver ensure that you have a comfortable and safe journey as you discover new places on your vacation. They navigate through tedious traffic snarls, ensure your coach is neat and tidy for your next day of travel, and even help in loading and unloading luggage at your every stop.
TOUR DIRECTOR & DRIVER GRATUITIES: At the end of each tour, our travellers take the opportunity to thank the Tour Directors and drivers for their services by paying them a gratuity that is automatically included in your invoice at the time of booking. Please see your travel documents for more information.
YOUR TRAVEL COMPANIONS
BE FRIENDLY: Introduce yourself and try to mix with your fellow travelers. It is not only good manners but will also be more fun for you than being on your own. Embrace the concept that just because something is different, it is not funny or wrong. If tempted to criticize or make jokes, remember your grandmother’s words of wisdom: “If you can’t say something nice, don’t say anything.” Good advice.
WHO YOU WILL TRAVEL WITH: Globus family of brands vacations are popular all over the world, which is why your travel companion can come from a variety of nations. These people carry with them their personal stories, and our vacations give you the unique opportunity to make friends and share your own individual experiences.
EN-TOUR BEHAVIOR: Showing respect and courtesy to co-travelers during the journey will likely earn you the same in return. It is necessary for your—as well as your co-travelers’—positive experience. In almost all countries, making others wait, speaking loudly in the coach, and humming songs when others are listening to the Tour Director’s commentary are considered disrespectful and, in fact, rude.
TRAVELLING WITH CHILDREN: If you are a parent travelling with children, it is your responsibility to take care of them and their safety. Most travelers on our vacations have a real interest in learning about the cultures they are touring and want to enjoy uninterrupted commentary from the Tour Director. It is also a great way for your own children to learn about other places and to respect other cultures.
YOUR TOURING COACH
KEEP IT CLEAN: Would you like to be stuck on a touring coach with morsels of food the earlier group lovingly left behind? This is why eating and smoking on our coaches is strictly prohibited, so that you can enjoy your scenic drives in a clean, hygienic, and state-of-the-art environment.
BAGS: For your own comfort, please travel light (baggage sizes are given in your travel documents). Carry a small backpack on the coach with only your travel essentials to ensure it fits in the luggage rack or under the seat in front of you, rather than on your or your neighbor’s lap.
YOUR DESTINATION
IN ROME, DO AS ROMANS DO: People everywhere love to welcome visitors to their part of the world. They genuinely like someone who takes an interest in their culture, so having an open mind will help you take away some great experiences. The best way to embrace the local culture is to do what the locals do—and on our vacations, you will have ample opportunity to do so!
WHAT TO WEAR: Sometimes, there may be restrictions on how you dress in certain countries or religious sites. For example, while it may be acceptable in many countries to dress in shorts during the day for sightseeing, shorts restrict admission to many shrines, temples, evening restaurants, and theatres. If in doubt, turn to the Tour Director for advice.
PHOTOGRAPHY: Still photography and video cameras may not always be allowed at the sights; use your camera only where you are permitted to do so.
TIPPING IN GENERAL: It would be advisable to check on tipping customs, as they vary from country to country. For example, some restaurants add the service fee automatically into the bill. However, it is always customary to tip Local Guides.
IT ALL DEPENDS ON YOU We live in a wonderfully diverse world. One of the greatest benefits of travel is the opportunity to return with different experiences and to come back an enriched and happy traveller. An open mind and consideration for others goes a long way in making your own experience an unforgettable one!
If you have any specific questions on your tour write to us at india@globusfamily.com
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