Frequently Asked
What is the minimum number of people for a private small group tour?
Six people is the minimum for a small group tour, and twelve people is our maximum group size. However, if you’re a smaller or larger group we can put together a custom itinerary with more or fewer services as your budget permits.
How are small group tours different from private travel?
Small group tours give you a few companions with whom you will experience a prearranged itinerary where you don’t have any worries or planning. Plus you’ll have a Tour Host available to you around the clock. That person will be there to make sure you have whatever you need, whenever you need it. Your Tour Host is also your travel buddy and host – they know the locals so you’ll feel like you’re being introduced and welcomed as a friend.
Private travel gives you the flexibility to have more input on the activities, accommodations, or dates of travel. You can opt to have more services and as much or as little arranged for you in advance. If your group size or budget permits, we can also have a Tour Host escort you on your journey. We find that with some groups, like multi-generational family travelers, it helps to have an onsite coordinator who is ten-steps ahead, who has already thought about Grandma’s 5:13 PM ritual glass of wine and Timmy-two-year-old’s 7:00 PM bedtime, and how to accommodate them both.
Is food so important?
Well, other than the obvious reason pointing to Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, food is something that brings us all together no matter your culture, your age, your nationality, your gender. We all must eat. And we seem to like doing it together. Food is a great way to experience a different culture and learn from locals. It gives us an opportunity to bond over a meal, share experiences, learn, and laugh.
How much walking / activity is involved in the tours?
The amount of activity varies by tour and destination. Most of our trips have at least one walking tour where you should be comfortable walking at a casual pace on uneven roads or sidewalks for at least 3 hours with short breaks in between movement. Please contact us before booking a trip if you have limitations that you are concerned about. We want to make sure that your vacation is comfortable for you!
What should I pack?
It varies significantly based on your destination and season of travel. We recommend that you pack as lightly as possible and leave room in your suitcase for gifts or souvenirs. Many travelers complain about not having enough space on their way home. Check with your airline for baggage fees and permitted measurements.
Do I need travel protection?
YES! Travel protection is extremely important and we recommend that all travelers procure their own medical insurance, travel protection, and trip cancellation or interruption protection that is suitable for the risk they are willing to assume.
If you have pre-existing health conditions please notify your provider so they can include any additional protection as necessary.
Please note that travel protection is different from trip cancellation & interruption protection, although many suppliers will package them together in one policy. We recommend procuring both types of coverage, in addition to an upgrade to “Cancel for Any Reason.” These policies usually require you to purchase coverage within 10-21 days from deposit, depending on the provider.
It is critical to review your plan details and coverage benefits to verify your destinations, activities, and possible reasons for cancellation are covered in your plan.
