General Questions
Get answers to questions about the coaches, other guests and your Tour Directors.
Will I be traveling with a reliable company?
Most certainly. Trafalgar has been in business since 1947 and they have perfected the escorted holidays experience throughout the world. Every year, over 55% of Trafalgar's passengers have traveled with them once before and many return to travel with them again.
Will I be traveling with people from other countries?
Trafalgar sells its tours in more than 38 countries around the world. It is therefore quite typical to find 6-10 different nationalities on any one tour. You'll forge new friendships with other Trafalgar guests from Australia, America, Canada, Europe, New Zealand, South Africa, Singapore, Japan, UK etc.
How many people are on tour with me?
There will be a maximum of 49 people on First Class, CostSaver and Breakaway tours throughout Europe.
Will I have time on my own?
Absolutely. Trafalgar designs each itinerary with the perfect balance between planned itineraries and time on your own to explore.
Will the coach be modern and comfortable?
Rest assured that you will ride in comfort, as Trafalgar has the finest fleet of air-conditioned motor coaches, all with reclining seats from Mercedes, Setra, Volvo and Fiat.
Are the hotels air-conditioned?
The majority of hotels have air conditioning but not all. Fewer hotels north of the Alps in Europe have air conditioning as a matter of course.
What are the Tour Directors like?
Our Tour Directors come from a variety of backgrounds and include former teachers, sales managers and lecturers who all share the passion for travel. They have a minimum of five years experience as Tour Directors behind them, and have all been thoroughly trained, making them the best of the world’s elite travel professionals.
What's the difference between a Trafalgar's First Class and Cost Saver tours?
Both provide exceptional value for money, with the same professional service of a Tour Director and Driver and comfortable coaches. First Class tours include First Class Hotels, buffet breakfast daily and more sightseeing inclusions. Cost Saver hotels are guaranteed Superior Tourist class or better and continental style breakfast daily.
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Before My Tour Departs
All you need to know about vaccinations, foreign exchange and how much to pack.
How much luggage can I bring?
Due to limited space on the motor coach, you are requested to bring one suitcase per person with the dimensions of 30in. x 18in. x 10in. (76cm x 46cm x 25cm) and weight not exceeding 23kg. You can also bring one piece of hand luggage, provided it is small enough to take on the coach and does not have telescope handles.
Is baggage handling provided?
Baggage handling is provided. One suitcase per person will be brought to your hotel room.
How do I change my currency?
Currency can be exchanged at airports or banks throughout Europe, and traveller’s cheques are easy to obtain. Whilst small amounts of cash are necessary, it is advisable to carry mainly traveller’s cheques as they can be replaced if lost or stolen. Also, most bank machines (ATM’s) throughout Europe accept debit cards. Currency packs are also available.
Are tips included?
Trafalgar Tours has pre-paid certain tips and gratuities for you such as all baggage handling at hotels and ports. Tips to restaurant staff for meals are also included in the price of your tour. Tips are customarily given to your Tour Director, Driver and Local Guides at your discretion. The recommended amounts are: Tour Directors US$4 per day, Drivers US$2.50 per day and Local Guides US$1 per day.
Can I bring a wheelchair on tour?
Yes, as long as it is fully collapsible, non-motorized and you are travelling with an able bodied companion capable of pushing you in it. Please advise us at time of booking if you plan to bring one.
What types of outfits do I pack and will I need formal attire?
This will depend on your personal preferences, where you are traveling, and on the time of year. It is advisable to bring at least one ‘smart’ outfit for special evenings or highlight dinners. Please note that some churches/places of worship require covered shoulders and in some cases, knee length shorts/skirts. Always pack enough clothes and wear pieces that you feel comfortable in. Items that are casual and lightweight, requiring little or no ironing are recommended.
What type of weather can I expect?
Weather varies in different parts of the world, therefore always check the weather forecast before travel. This will also help you determine what to bring with you.
Do I need vaccinations?
Please see your travel agent or doctor to find out which vaccinations are required. If you are taking medication or suffer from any form of illness, be sure to have an adequate supply of medicines before departing on your tour.
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While on Tour
Read about laundry facilities, drinking water and keeping in touch with family.
What are optional excursions and when do I purchase them?
We carefully plan each itinerary to include must see sites, a great deal of excursions, hidden treasures and events. Knowing that free time and personal choice are important, we leave it up to you to decide an ideal balance of included activities and time on your own. We therefore would not want to include everything. For this reason, you will also have the chance to go to special events & optional excursions – extra side trips offered to augment the local experience of a destination, like the Moulin Rouge in Paris, or an amazing ascent of the Klein Matterhorn in Zermatt. These are available to buy at the start of the tour through your Tour Director. Payment can be by credit card, cash (local currency) or travelers cheques. We also advise you to plan your budget in advance and allocate funds for these memorable events.
Can I use my electrical appliances?
Electrical currents vary in Britain, on the continent of Europe and also in different countries throughout the world. Some newer appliances have dual voltage, but if not, we suggest you carry a converter for your electric shaver, travelling iron and other small appliances to prevent damage. Additionally, plugs/outlets differ everywhere, so you’ll need a universal electrical travel adaptor before you go in order to use your appliance.
Can I have laundry done?
Most hotels do offer laundry service, and in some cities Laundromats are also available. However, it is a good idea to try and pack enough clothing without having to do laundry, as it can sometimes be costly and/or inconvenient.
How can I keep in touch with family and friends?
Almost all hotels will add a service charge to the cost of any phone calls you make from your room. This charge can be high, especially for international calls. It is always cheaper to use public telephones (pay phones) or an international calling service. Calling cards are great for a set amount of phone time - no change required and no big bills. Also, there are cyber cafes throughout most destinations and hotels are also equipped with Internet access.
Is there seat rotation?
Yes, your Tour Director will implement a seat rotation system, whereby clients rotate seats on the coach daily. This allows for all passengers to experience the different views from various seats and maximise interaction.
What if I become ill on tour and am unable to continue?
Your Tour Director will assist with a doctor’s visit or hospitalization. Trafalgar has a dedicated Customer Care Department, which will contact you to offer assistance and advice, coordinate with your travel insurance company and keep in touch until you rejoin the tour or return home. This service is included in the cost of your tour but is not intended as a replacement for travel insurance.
What if I arrive late and miss a feature on the tour?
We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including but not limited to, missed meals or sightseeing.
Can I drink the water in the countries I will visit on my tour?
In Britain, Western Europe and Scandinavia, the answer is ‘yes’. For other countries visited you will be guided by your Tour Director.
Is smoking allowed on the coach?
There is a no smoking policy whilst on board the coach. However, we make plenty of comfort stops, allowing you ample opportunity to smoke if you wish, stretch your legs, take a scenic snapshot or just time to enjoy a cup of coffee.
I see that on CostSaver tours there is no toilet on the coach. How often does the coach make comfort stops?
On average, every 2 to 2 ½ hours. If you have an emergency, the coach will usually be able to stop for you, but if you have a special need you would be advised to book one of our First Class Tours where the coaches have onboard toilets.