| What to Know Before You Go to... |
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| Mexico
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Call US AT: 800-206-TOUR |
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Thank you for booking with 206 Tours. We promise to do all with in our power to assist you with any questions or concerns you may have. Please feel free to contact us. Please note that should any problems arises during your trip you should first contact your local emergency contact, and then 206 Tours. We pray that your pilgrimage will meet and exceed all of your expectations. Please share with us your positive and constructive feedback upon your return! |
How to Prepare for Your Pilgrimage:
A couple of weeks before your pilgrimage, one should begin preparing physically as well as spiritually.
- If not accustomed to physical activity begin walking "briskly" 1-2 times a day; build up to 2-3 miles with no discomfort.
- If possible attend daily mass or attempt to spend quiet time in church during lunch or after work.
- Pray for Jesus and His Blessed Mother to open your heart and mind to be responsive to new perspectives, ideas, their words laid on your heart, etc.
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Begin praying the rosary daily (Learn How to Pray the Rosary) or at
least the Apostle's Creed, 7 Our Father's,
7 Hail Mary's & 7 Glory Be's as Our Lady has requested; this takes about 5-7 minutes.
General Info About Your Documents, Flights, Arrival & Travel:
New Security Procedures:
- All liquids, gels and aerosols must be in three-ounce or smaller containers. Larger containers that are half-full or toothpaste tubes rolled up are not allowed. Each container must be three ounces or smaller.
- All liquids, gels and aerosols must be placed in a single, quart-size, zip-top, clear plastic bag. Gallon size bags or bags that are not zip-top such as fold-over sandwich bags are not allowed. Each traveler can use Only * one, quart-size, zip-top, clear plastic bag.
- Each traveler must remove their quart-sized plastic, zip-top bag from their carry-on and place it in a bin or on the conveyor belt for X-ray screening. X-raying separately will allow TSA security officers to more easily examine the declared items.
Final Documents:
206 Tours will ship your final documents to the address provided on your reservation application approximately 2-3 weeks prior to your scheduled departure date. The package will be delivered by FedEx (can not be delivered to a PO Box). Your final documents will include your airline tickets, hotel confirmations, emergency contacts, general trip information, luggage tags, portfolio of travel documents, flight bag, and more. Carefully review your tickets to ensure that your name on the tickets are an exact match to that of your passport. Please note that the name field on your tickets is Only * 19 characters long, therefore names exceeding this length will be cut off (this is not a problem, as your actual reservation contains your full name). Please also carefully review the itinerary provided to ensure that all departure and destination cities, as well as dates, are correct. Please contact 206 Tours immediately should any discrepancies be found.* Please note that late payment/bookings can cause delay in the shipment of your final documents.
International Flights:
We recommend that you check in for your international flights three hours prior to the scheduled departure time. Passengers must personally check their luggage at the airline counter. Please advise the airline representative of your final destination upon check in so that you will not need to claim your baggage and recheck it during flight connections. Please note that our pilgrims travel from across the USA. You will be traveling independently for all flights until your arrival at your final destination. You will not have a tour escort with you during your flights. Please be advised that 206 Tours attempts to centralize as many pilgrims as possible on the same flights, so you may arrive/depart on the same flights as many of your co-pilgrims (for additional information see "Arrival Procedure" below.
Airline Connections:
206 Tours must book your airline reservations based on the routings provided to us by the airlines, including connection time, cities for connections, and partner carriers. Airlines determine the standard for the required minimum connecting time to transfer from one gate to another for each specific airport. At times, the connection times provided by the airlines are quite tight (i.e. 45 minutes) and require passengers to make haste during their connections. At times the airline connection times are quite long, due to the flight availability at the time of booking. While we wish we could determine the connection times for each of our clients, we are subject to the rules, regulations, and availability of the carriers we work with. We also must ensure that all reservations correspond so that each participant is able to meet the group transfer to/from the airport to hotel and hotel to airport. We promise to do all in our power to provide you with the most convenient flight schedule available to us at the time of your booking, however, we must still follow all appropriate airline rules and regulations.
Airline Tickets:
Most airlines now require that we provide e-tickets in place of paper tickets. At check-in, you should be ready to provide your flight itinerary and passport to the agent. In a few cases where e-tickets cannot be issued, you will receive your tickets in a paper form. Please note that paper tickets, and boarding passes, must be present in order to check in, and or board the plane.
Code-share Flights:
Many airlines participate in alliances and special agreements with other airlines which permit passengers to travel from one point to another using more than one carrier. While your ticket may indicate that you are flying with one carrier (eg:
American), you may find that you are actually seated in a plane belonging to another carrier (eg:
AeroMexico). Please review your airline itinerary carefully to determine which airline you should go to for check-in; if your flight is operated by a carrier other than the primary airline indicated on the itinerary, your itinerary will state "Flight Operated by (Airline)." If you have any concerns regarding which airline to check-in with, you may contact the airline directly or 206 Tours for clarification.
Airline Mileage Accounts:
Please contact the airline directly to open a mileage account and to obtain credit for the miles flown on this trip.
I
n case you did not get the chance to enroll in the airline mileage program prior to your trip, make sure to do so upon your return, just save your boarding passes and luggage tags.Passports and Visas:
All U.S. citizens must have a valid passport to enter Mexico. For additional information on obtaining a US passport please visit: http://travel.state.gov/passport/passport_1738.html. A visa is not required for citizens of the USA. If you are not a citizen please contact Mexico Consulate to find out the procedures on how you may obtain visa. Please be advised that it is the passengers responsibility to reconfirm if any visa's are required for their trip itinerary.
Health Precautions:
No inoculations are necessary when traveling to Mexico from the US. But consult with your health care provider before traveling. Although the water in Mexico is safe in order to prevent "Montezuma's Revenge", avoid the tap water, including ice cubes. Your stomach may still become upset due to the change in diet. Bring anti-diarrhea medicine just in case. For the latest overseas travel health information, call the Center for Disease Control's travelers' hotline at 404-332-4559. Or visit their web site at www.cdc.gov.
Travel Warnings:
US State Department Travel Advisories: For up to date US State Department travel advisories you may visit: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/tw/tw_1764.html
Arrival Procedure:
After disembarkation from the plane you will clear immigration, and proceed to claim your luggage. You will exit the baggage claim into the arrival lounge where you will be greeted by driver and/or your Tour Escort displaying a board or sign with your name and/or "206 Tours”, and then you will be transferred to your hotel where you will meet your guide and the rest of your group. Please remember to look for the sign!
If your plane arrives late, or you are re-routed you will probably miss the group transfer which is included in your package. In such circumstances you will need to pay for your separate private transfer, which you may submit a claim to the airlines for reimbursement upon your return to the USA. Where public and taxi transportation is difficult to obtain from the airport, 206 Tours will do all possible to arrange for a private transfer to meet you upon your arrival (if we are aware of your misconnection/arrival flight), however, you will be responsible to remit payment to your driver upon drop off at your destination. If you arrive in one of the previously mentioned destinations, and we have not been able to arrange for a driver to meet you, please call your local emergency contact (listed in your Final Instruction Booklet) so that they may dispatch a transfer for you. In major cities it is best for you to take a taxi directly to your hotel upon arrival should you miss the group transfer. Please remember to save your receipts. We strongly recommend the purchase of Traveler's Insurance for this reason (www.206tours.com/insurance).
Luggage:
It is suggested that you attempt to travel with Only * one piece of luggage. Although airlines do allow each person to check two suitcases, due to the space provided on the bus we are unable to accommodate more than one suitcase and one carry-on. International air carriers are becoming stricter about the size and weight of baggage and carry-on luggage. Please contact your air carrier or travel agent for specific information prior to departure as size and weight limitations vary from airline to airline and even according to destination. For your own comfort and that of fellow passengers, please limit the size of your hand luggage to 17x14x8 in. (43x36x20 cm) for easy storage on the motor coach. Porterage for one suitcase on tour is included in the tour price. Due to limited coach capacity, this single bag should have dimensions not exceeding 45 in overall dimensions (length+width+height) and weight not exceeding 50 lbs (23 kg). A charge of USD 3 per traveling day will be collected by the Tour Director if a second piece of baggage is carried, or if the suitcase exceeds the established weight and/or dimensions. For health reasons, porters may refuse to carry very heavy suitcases. Carry all documents and money on your person but not all in the same place to limit the inconvenience in case of loss; do not keep money, important documents, medicines or jewelry in your suitcase; please leave valuable jewelry at home. We recommend a money belt worn inside your clothes, while touring. On departure from your hotel, remember to double check that you have your money belt with you, and that you have collected any items left in the hotel safe. Please, at all times, be as vigilant as you would be in any major city, especially in crowded places such as subways, squares or churches/cathedrals. Never leave your hand luggage unattended or out of sight in public areas, including airports, hotel lobbies or dining rooms. Be sure to keep ALL medications in your carry-on bag during your trip in case your suit case should be lost. Keep a separate list of important numbers, i.e. passport, traveler’s checks, and credit cards, in your luggage, together with photocopies of airline tickets and the relevant pages of your passport/visas. The same common-sense rules of safety and security apply here as to anywhere else:
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Avoid excessive displays of jewelry or cash (Only * carry sufficient for daily needs).
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Use room safes or leave items with the hotel manager.
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Make certain that any valuables are insured against theft.
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Avoid exploration on your own of unfamiliar streets or areas.
-
Be especially cautious if gypsies approach you begging.
How to Overcome Jet Lag:
Rapid travel through multiple time zones can take its toll on your physical and
mental well-being. "Jet Lag" is the phrase used to describe the condition when
an individual's internal body clock is out of sync with the actual time in the
region to which you have traveled. It is important to try to adjust your
internal body clock to receive the most out of your tour. Here are some tips on
how to adjust your body to local time. On the day of the flight/arrival:
- Get out of bed earlier than usual.
- Eat a high carbohydrate dinner (e.g. pasta, potatoes, etc.)
- Drink a lot of water to compensate for the dehydration that is common on long flights.
- Shortly after your evening meal on your flight, set your watch ahead to the actual time.
- Try to rest or sleep as soon as possible on your flight.
- When you arrive, keep active and go to bed around 10:00 PM.
Insurance:
Please note that traveler's insurance is STRONGLY recommended for all 206 Tours pilgrims. Be advised that traveler's insurance can not be purchased after you have paid in full for your trip. For those who have purchased Travel Guard Travelers Insurance through 206 Tours a pamphlet will be included in your final documents. Please refer to this brochure for specific stipulations or questions. For more information you can also visit www.206tours.com/insurance.
Transportation:
Distances between points in
Mexico range are not that long, depending on day and your itinerary. However, our days are packed with activities and there is no much free time to shop. Some days may include Only * 1 hour of free time. During travel days with extensive driving the coach will stop for bathroom/stretch (approximately every 2 to 3 hours) breaks as well as a lunch stop.
Money:
The currency in Mexico is the Peso, but US Dollars are widely accepted. Credit cards are always a good and safe way to go when traveling. Make sure to bring along a credit card for convenience and security. Credit cards offer a very reasonable exchange rate and can be cancelled should it be lost. MasterCard and Visa are the two most widely accepted cards. American Express and Diners Club are not accepted in many stores. You may also choose to bring traveler's checks, however, not all shops/restaurants accept them due to the devaluation of the US dollar. It is also practical and cost effective to withdraw local currency using your ATM/Debit card during your trip. ATMs are readily available in most of the destinations we service, and are very similar to those in USA. Most offer English as a language option. It is recommended that you contact your local bank and credit card companies before departing on your trip to advise them that you will be traveling.
We are frequently asked, "How much money should I bring with me?" This is an impossible question to answer as each person is different. The type of lunches you prefer can make a big difference (restaurant vs cafe). Are you planning on purchasing mementos for yourself or loved ones? We recommend that the minimum spending money you should bring with you / budget for, in addition to the suggested tips, is the equivalent of $30 per day. Remember, you can always spend less, or bring money home!
Currency Exchange:
The Peso is the currency of Mexico. As September 14, 2007 the exchange rate is approximately 1 USD = 11 Pesos. Keep in mind that this is the "pure" exchange rate an any form of currency exchange has some fees associated. For up to date currency exchange rates please visit www.xe.com. Please note that the currency flocculation has been particularly volatile in the last year, so we strongly urge you to check the current exchange rates prior to departure.
Weights and Measures:
The metric system is used exclusively through out
Mexico. A kilometer is a bit over 1/2 mile (.62 miles). A kilogram equals 2.2 pounds.
Time:
Mexico operate on a 24 hour clock. This means that 6:00 pm is 18:00, etc.
Tipping:
Tip envelopes are enclosed for your convenience. Tips are an important part of earnings for your escorts, guides and bus drivers. Due to devaluation of US dollar (in order to budget we recommend that you anticipate a total of approximately $6.00 - $8.00 per person per day):
Your bus driver $2.00 per person per day (or depending on the level of the satisfaction).
In Mexico it is customary to tip the hotel staff $1.00 per person per day (to be provided to the front desk at the time of check out to be dispersed on your behalf)
If you have a sightseeing
tour with a local guide, which lasts approx 2 1/2 hrs, it is
standard practice to tip your local tour guides and bus drivers
after an excursion, or tour, generally $1.00 – $2.00.
Optional and may change from place to place: But, almost all restaurants include tax and a 15%service charge (service compris) in their prices. If a meal or service has been particularly good, leaving another $1 to $2 is customary, as is leaving the waiter the small change from your bill if you pay in cash. If service is not included a 15% tip is appropriate. In hotels, tip porters is included of $2 for each bag and chambermaids. When and if your group has a completely free day (s) and escort sees them Only * for a couple of hours or during the dinner time, then it is really at your discretion what amount you should tip them. As normally most clients calculate a total amount of tip for escort for total days serviced - when, escort does less hours it normally compensates the days with longer hours, which often happens when escorts are touring.
Hotels / Accommodations:
Electricity:
The voltage used is 110/120 volts (same as the USA).
The telephone country code for Mexico is +52 (from U.S. 011-52 followed by the city code and telephone number)
Cell Telephones:
You may bring your cellular phone, but make sure to contact your wireless phone provider and inform them, that you will be traveling out of the country (giving them destinations). Most have an "international plan" if not get one for the trip. This will allow you to make calls to the United States while you are out of the country using your wireless phone.
Hotel Telephones:
While telephones offer convenience, they do tend to cost substantially more than public phones. You may choose to utilize a calling card to be more cost efficient, however, be advised that most hotels charge a connection fee which ranges from $1.00 to $5.00 for such calls.
Public Telephones:
Are plentiful and usually do work. Most of them operate today with a
plastic credit card size phone card, available at post offices and your
newsstand. Cards of 20, 50 and 100 units are available (time per unit
depends on distance of call and time of day). A reasonable way to
communicate.
Public Toilets:
Are
available in most tourist locations. Be prepared with tissues in your pocket at all times. Also, be aware that some public toilets are manned/ womaned by attendants who ask for a small "user's fee".Photography:
If you are bringing a digital camera, make sure to bring extra batteries. If not digital, remember to bring plenty of film (200 or 400 speed is recommended for outdoor and indoor-flash photography). Photography is not allowed in some museums and in some security-conscious facilities.
Terrain:
There are split-levels and uneven surfaces everywhere; please watch your step! Due to the structure of old buildings, access to some establishments may not be convenient for wheelchair use, and facilities for the disabled in general may be limited. Rubber-soled walking shoes are recommended. On many streets, due to strict traffic regulations, the buses are not always permitted to drop groups off directly in front for their destination. Please be prepared to walk.
Capital:
Mexico City
Geography:
Mexico is at the southern
extremity of North America and is bordered to the north by the USA,
northwest by the Gulf of California, west by the Pacific, south by Guatemala
and Belize, and east by the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean. Mexico’s
geographical features range from swamp to desert, and from tropical lowland
jungle to high alpine vegetation. Over half the country is at an altitude
greater than 1,000m (3,300ft). The central land mass is a plateau flanked by
ranges of mountains to the east and west that lie roughly parallel to the
coast. The northern area of this plateau is arid and thinly populated, and
occupies 40% of the total area of Mexico. The southern area is crossed by a
range of volcanic mountains running from Cape Corrientes in the west through
the Valley of Mexico to Veracruz in the east, and includes the magnificent
volcanoes of Cofre de Perote, Ixtaccíhuatl, Matlalcueyetl, Nevado de Toluca,
Orizaba and Popocatépetl. This is the heart of Mexico and where almost half
of the population lives. To the south, the land falls away to the sparsely
populated Isthmus of Tehuantepec whose slopes and flatlands support both
commercial and subsistence agriculture. In the east, the Gulf Coast and the
Yucatán peninsula are flat and receive over 75% of Mexico’s rain. The most
productive agricultural region in Mexico is the northwest, while the Gulf
Coast produces most of Mexico’s oil and sulfur. Along the northwest coast,
opposite the peninsula of Baja California, and to the southeast along the
coast of Bahía de Campeche and the Yucatán peninsula, the lowlands are
swampy with coastal lagoons.
Taxis:
Be wary of any person approaching you offering unofficial taxi services. If you do not have an airport transfer included and you need transportation, make your way to the official taxi desk or to the regular taxi line outside the terminal; choose Only * those vehicles with a meter and a taxi sign. We recommend you pre-negotiate the fare, as taxi drivers in some countries may attempt to overcharge unwary travelers.
Local Customs:
A different way of life in some countries on tour may take you by surprise, but if you travel with an open mind and respect local customs and culture, you should find it easier to adapt to and enjoy your new surroundings. Standards of living may not be quite what you are used to, but there are compensations – a closer sense of reality and a more authentic feeling of locale. Never accept any offer of food or drink from strangers.
Social Conventions:
Handshaking is the most common form of greeting. Casual wear is acceptable for daytime dress throughout Mexico. At beach resorts, dress is very informal for men and women and nowhere are men expected to wear ties. In Mexico City, however, dress tends to be smart in elegant restaurants and hotel dining rooms. Smoking is unrestricted except where notified. Mexicans regard relationships and friendships as the most important thing in life next to religion and they are not afraid to show their emotions. A large Mexican family always seems to find room for one more and a visitor who becomes friends with a Mexican will invariably be made part of the family. Visitors should always remember that local customs and traditions are important.
Shopping:
Please do not stop or wonder
off shopping during your tour!
Enjoy some stress-free Christmas shopping during your travels; small, light items that you can easily carry home make splendid and festive gifts. Don’t forget to buy something nice for yourself too, to take home to evoke pleasant memories of your vacation abroad.
Ask
your tour escort for regional specialties products and you will be given
a specific time to shop
for
Authentic
Mexican items like elaborately embroidered clothes, the famous Mexican
hats, birthday piñatas and original Mexican tequila. There are
countless items in Mexico that are sure to catch your eye. Good places
to shop in Mexico include Mexico City, Campeche, Acapulco, Guadalajara,
Merida, Taxco and Oaxaca, among others. Great finds in Mexico include
silverware, woven blankets and scarves, charro hats, dresses and shirts,
hammocks, and pottery. Most cities in Mexico have shopping malls and
designer boutiques that are similar to American malls. Some resorts and
hotels also have souvenir shops that sell local goods; however, but you
may find similar goods that sell for a lot cheaper at bargain centers
outside the hotel or resort. Fonart is a line of stores that are
operated by the government. They carry quality handicrafts with already
fixed but reasonable prices. Profits from Fonart help in the funding of
the arts and craft of Mexico. Mexico also has dedicated craft shops,
such as Mercado de Artesanias in Mexico City, where you can bargain with
the vendors. When looking for cheap finds, try going to bargain shops
and rustic markets. Indoor markets are popular, especially in Oaxaca and
Puebla. There are also a lot of choices on the streets, offered by
roadside stalls and street vendors. There are places in Mexico that
specialize in producing and selling certain items. If you’re looking for
pottery, such as Talavera ceramics, try going to Puebla. Meanwhile,
woven products are specialties of people in Oaxaca.
If you purchase a video or DVD, please check very carefully that it is compatible with your home viewing system (for USA and Canada – VHS NTSC and DVD region 1) Sales tax or VAT (value added tax) is already included on price tags; VAT refunds, if applicable, may sometimes take up to three months to process.
Please expect that your dinners will be scheduled around 7:30 pm to 8:00 pm. Most breakfasts are buffet style. Unlike in the USA, it is frowned upon to take food out of the breakfast room. Most dinners will be served "sit down" with a pre-determined 3 or 4 course meal. Your meals include iced tap water and coffee or tea. While some restaurants may be able to provide for a special diet, such as vegetarian or salt-free, there is no way for us to guarantee this. Please note, vegetarian meals tend to lack variety and imagination.
Tap Water:
We recommend that you avoid consuming local tap water (including ice), as it may upset your stomach.
Climate:
City |
Jan |
Feb |
Mar |
Apr |
May |
Jun |
Jul |
Aug |
Sep |
Oct |
Nov |
Dec |
|
Mexico City |
Daytime Highs |
70 |
73 |
77 |
78 |
78 |
75 |
73 |
73 |
72 |
72 |
72 |
71 |
|
Nightime Lows |
50 |
52 |
53 |
56 |
58 |
58 |
56 |
56 |
55 |
53 |
51 |
50 |
|
Due to global weather changes, regional temperatures may deviate from
the norms. We recommend layered, easy care, loose-fitting clothing, an
item or two for rain or unseasonable temperatures and something warmer.
Light-weights for summer. Medium-weights for winter with heavier
clothing for inland areas. It is a good idea to pack waterproofs at any
time of year.
Mid-summer advice: Wear a sunhat and loose-fitting clothing, drink at least one liter (one quart) of mineral water a day if you can (carry a small bottle in your hand luggage); avoid eating too much ice-cream and reduce the amount of ice in drinks. A small battery-operated fan may be useful in warm weather.
Language:
The official language of Mexico is Spanish. English is widely spoken, and many signs appear in English too.
Mexican Embassy in the USA:
1911 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW ~ Washington DC 20006,
USA
Tel: (202) 728 1600. ~ Website:
www.embassyofmexico.org
Mexican Tourism Board in the USA:
400 Madison Avenue, Suite 11C ~ New York, NY 10017, USA
Tel: (212) 308 2110 or 1 800 446 3942 ~ Website:
www.visitmexico.com
What To Pack
:
Clothing:
Due to global weather changes, regional temperatures may deviate from the norms. We recommend layered, easy care, loose-fitting clothing, an item or two for rain or unseasonable temperatures and something warmer.
For Winter, Early Spring, and Late Fall: be sure to back a warm jacket, a hat, scarf and gloves. Just in case.
For Summer, Late Spring, and Late Summer: Bring a sunhat and plenty loose-fitting clothing. Don't forget a lightweight sweater for the evenings as some places may be a little cooler than others.
A note about summer attire; shorts (or mini skirts) and bare shoulders are considered inappropriate at some religious sites. For men, shorts that can be transformed by zippers into trousers may be convenient.
Bring an all-weather coat, just in case. We strongly recommend that women bring a shall or sarong which can be placed conveniently in their day bag, so that they may drape their shoulders, or tie around their waists in the more religious sites.
Make sure you have a good pair of walking shoes. If new, make sure you walk in them for a couple of weeks to break them in. On the plane you will want to wear loose-fitting clothes and pack a pair of slippers to wear for the flight, as well as a lightweight jacket. Make sure your shoes are lace-up, as your feet may swell a little.
General Clothing for Men: Jeans, casual slacks, short and/or long sleeve shirts, socks, undergarments, and light jacket or coat.
General Clothing for Women: Jeans, long skirts, casual dresses, casual slacks, short and/or long sleeve, socks, stockings, undergarments, and a light jacket or sweater is suggested.
Other Suggested Items to Bring (check list):
__ Pack at least one change of clothing in your carry-on (just in case
the airlines loses your luggage)
__
Inflatable head & neck rest, eye mask, foam earplugs (for flight)
__ Portable alarm clock
__ Flashlight with extra batteries: take batteries out while traveling
__ Old towel or small plastic bag to sit on outside
__ Handy wipes: freshening up during the day
__ Travel pack size Kleenex.
__ Extra batteries for flashlight, camera, recorders
__ Tape recorder or journal for Mass, and talks
__ Extra film for camera: expensive outside of US
__ Travel size poncho, in camping section of Wal-Mart
__ Optional grocery size plastic bags: 1-2 for dirty clothes or items you purchase
__ Soap-small bar travel size
__ Shampoo-travel size or put some in a small container; don't carry some big bottle
__ Toothbrush & Toothpaste-travel size
__ Deodorant-travel size
__ Chap stick
__ Comb/Brush
__ Aspirin/Advil, Etc.
__ Feminine protection
__ Laxative/Imodium
__ Band-aids
__ Dramamine or Bonine - if subject to motion sickness
__ Pepto Bismol- tablets
__ Sominex
__ Allergy/cold medicine; tablets (put medicines in a sandwich bag)
Health Care:
Some people find that taking them selves off caffeine and taking compounds high in anti-oxidants to be helpful in combating jet lag. You can also take Jet-stress or Cell Guard which are herbal complexes designed to combat jet lag. Ginger can be helpful in motion sickness. Melatonin helps to allow you to sleep on the plane. These items can be found at most health food stores.
What If...& Frequently Asked Questions:
What should I do if I lose my ticket?
If you should lose your ticket prior to your departure date please contact 206 Tours immediately. We will fax a copy of your original ticket to the airlines. You will need to arrive at the airport extra early and sign a Lost Ticket Indemnity Form, and pay the airlines a $100 reissuing fee. If you should lose your ticket during your trip please immediately inform your tour escort who will advise us, so that we may follow the same procedure.
What should I do if my flight is cancelled or delayed?
If your flight is cancelled or delayed it is imperative that you work DIRECTLY with the airlines at the airport to arrange for alternate flights or protection. Please note that once your tickets have been issued or you have check-in for your flights, 206 Tours can no longer make any changes to your flight itinerary. This can Only * be done by the airlines. In such case, remember, the squeaky wheel gets the grease, so be persistent. However, it is important to remember that it is not the airline agents fault, so try your best to remain courteous to them, as you may find that you receive more assistance this way. Please be advise that the airlines are not required to offer reimbursement for personal expense or overnights when delays/cancellations occur due to weather. We strongly recommend the purchase of Traveler's Insurance for this reason (www.206tours.com/insurance). However, if you find that you have no luck with the airline personnel, please contact 206 Tours and we shall do all in our power to assist you.
What should I do if I miss my flight due to my late arrival at my departure airport?
If you should miss your flight, due to your own late arrival at your departure airport, it is imperative that you work DIRECTLY with the airlines at the airport to arrange for alternate flights. You will incur additional costs (minimum of $200 per person) for such changes. Please note that you should contact 206 Tours once your alternate arrangements have been made so that we may arrange for a private transfer (at your expense) if necessary.
What happens if I miss my group transfer upon arrival?
If your plane arrives late, or you are re-routed you will probably miss the group transfer which is included in your package. In such circumstances you will need to pay for your separate private transfer, which you may submit a claim to the airlines for reimbursement upon your return to the USA. For destinations where public and taxi transportation is difficult to obtain from the airport, 206 Tours will do all possible to arrange for a private transfer to meet you upon your arrival (if we are aware of your misconnection/arrival flight), however, you will be responsible to remit payment to your driver upon drop off at your destination. If you arrive in one of the previously mentioned destinations, and we have not been able to arrange for a driver to meet you, please call your local emergency contact (listed in your Final Instruction Booklet) so that they may dispatch a transfer for you. In major cities it is best for you to take a taxi directly to your hotel upon arrival should you miss the group transfer. Please remember to save your receipts. We strongly recommend the purchase of Traveler's Insurance for this reason (www.206tours.com/insurance).
What happens if I have a problem or complaint during my trip?
If you have any problems, concerns, or complaints during your trip, please communicate them IMMEDIATELY to your tour escort. Your tour escort is at your disposal to assist you with all your needs including issues with your hotel room, meals, etc. Remember, there is very little that can be done to undo a problem once you have returned home, but, most of the time your tour escort can address any concerns you may have swiftly. However, if the issue is not resolved to your satisfaction by your tour escort, then please contact our office.
What should I do if I want to change my ticket?
If you would like to change your ticket for any reason once it has been issued you MUST work DIRECTLY with the airlines. You will incur additional costs (minimum of $200 per person) for such changes.
Any questions? Call 800-206-TOUR - or - E-Mail Us
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| To Contact Us: 206 TOURS 333 Marcus Blvd, Hauppauge, NY 11787 Phone: (631) 361-4644 Fax: 1-631-361-3682 |