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WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
What will be the pace of my vacation?
The Globus family of brands offers over 400 vacations and while some are very leisurely paced, others are more
active or medium paced. Typically, Panorama vacations cover more countries / cities in a short duration, making a
vacation quick paced; Regional Discoveries are medium to leisurely pace. Every vacation has a pace meter indicating
its pace on the brochure & Web site.
How long will we be on the road each day? How often does the motorcoach stop en route?
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 motorcoach stops
after every 1 1/2 - 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 every day.
How early will I 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 times are not the same each day and the Tour Director will advise you of these once
the tour begins. Early starts offer the advantage of reaching sightseeing spots before the rush, leaving you free the
rest of the day to enjoy the destination and to do as you please. It is imperative that you maintain punctuality at all
times-for departure times, optional tours, and meeting times-so that everyone can enjoy a positive tour experience.
Tour groups can miss attractions if they are waiting on participants who are not on time.
What meals are included in my vacation? Can I request Indian / vegetarian / special cuisine while on tour?
The exact number of meals included on your tour is clearly specified on the itinerary and is different for each
vacation. Breakfast is included daily on most vacations, with the exception of North America, where it is not
included in the tour price; but some included hotels may offer it complimentary. Our vacations strive to introduce
you to authentic flavors, so you can enjoy the destination in a deeper way. Therefore, included meals are usually
local or continental and are never Indian or other specialty Asian cuisine. Please request vegetarian meals at the
time of booking, and also with the Tour Director when on tour; this can usually be accommodated when requested
in advance, but cannot be guaranteed. In certain countries and regions, such as North America's National Parks,
it may be difficult to find Indian or vegetarian meals. When meals are not included, you may choose an Indian
restaurant in the city you are touring. A list of the same is included in our Cosmos & Globus brochures.
Who will be my travel companions?
Our vacations are very popular worldwide & the demographic profile of travellers is varied. Your fellow travellers will
include many nationalities, including American, English, Canadian, Australian, Kiwi, Japanese, Indian, and many
others. They are of varied ages & backgrounds. It is a great opportunity to make friends from across the world.
Do vacation prices include tips to Tour Directors, Drivers & Local Guides?
At the end of each tour, our travelers take the opportunity to thank the Tour Directors and drivers for their services by
paying them a gratuity. You have the option of adding this at the time of booking, so you don’t have to budget for this
at the end of the tour. The exact amount of prepaid gratuity is indicated in the price box for your chosen vacation.
Travellers who prepay their gratuities receive a gratuity voucher with their travel documents—all they need to do is
give this to the Tour Director and the driver at the end of the tour. Tips collected at the time of booking are fully
refundable if you need to cancel your vacation for any reason. Tips for Local Guides are not included in this charge.
The option of adding tips is available only for the main tour and excludes extensions. You may pay these directly on
your vacation.
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. Since your travel companions include people from all parts of the world, being
friendly and a part of the group-rather than on your own-makes it more enjoyable. It is imperative that you maintain
punctuality at all times-for departure times, optional tours—so everyone can enjoy a positive tour experience. Also
remember that showing respect for cultural differences often gains you respect in return. Keep an open mind and
exhibit attitudes that reflect our nation in a positive way!
How is seating determined on the motorcoach?
We offer daily rotation of seating, which gives everyone a variety of views. The rotation is mandatory and is adhered
to by everyone.
What exactly is included in my vacation?
The true value of your vacation is in the accurate detailed vacation description on the Web site and in the brochures,
which are unusually specific about accommodation, touring in deluxe motorcoaches, 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 are optional tours booked?
Your Tour Director/Local Host/Cruise Director will review the optional excursions available for purchase while you are
on tour. Approximate costs and descriptions of the optional tours are mentioned on our Web site and in the travel
documents to enable you to budget. 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, or other operational reasons. On
Globus & Monograms vacations, you have the option of pre-purchasing the excursions. Please contact your travel
agent or us for more information.
What is the policy if I have to cancel? How can I protect against cancellation?
The cancellation policy differs based on the tour and the time of cancellation. Guidelines of our cancellation policy are
available in the brochure, on the Web site, and from your travel agent. You can protect yourself against cancellation
charges by purchasing a Trip Protection from the Globus family of brands. It is optional for you to purchase Trip
Protection and it is not included in the standard vacation price. It cannot be added after the tour is guaranteed for
payment. We recommend that you purchase this and a comprehensive insurance policy for your vacation.
Are arrival & departure transfers arranged for all vacations?
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 with your
travel agent. Transfers are not available for non-brochure dates but can be arranged if purchased with pre/post
nights. Transfers cannot be provided if joining late or leaving early. Flight information will be required at any time of
booking the transfers. Transfers will be provided only if confirmed by the Globus family of brands.
Does the Globus family of brands provide visa assistance?
With the exception of Russian visa letters (provided at an additional charge) we do not give any hotel vouchers for
visas. For Globus' Russia & Northern Europe (Tour RR), which requires Russian, Belarus, and Schengen visas,
Globus can assist you 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 and Portugal (Tours 6820, 6830) need Schengen visa and UK
visa for Gibraltar. Some U.S. vacations visiting Niagara Falls (Tour 8000) require both a U.S. and a Canada visa.
When will I receive my travel documents?
Travel documents are sent approximately 2-3 weeks prior to departure, provided full payment has been received. A
service charge per reservation may be added for documents requested in advance.
What benefit do I get booking two back-to-back tours or taking two tours in a year?
Clients who take two or more vacations in a calendar year (January-December) qualify for a reduction on all
subsequent vacations. On Cosmos, the second and subsequent tour discount is US$50 per person; on Globus, it is
5%. These are subject to terms and conditions. Please contact your travel agent or us for more information.
Are prices published in the brochure/on the Web site guaranteed?
Prices quoted in the brochure / Web site 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;
the price will be confirmed at the time you book your vacation. Once we receive your deposit, the land price is
guaranteed. 2014 prices and itineraries are subject to change.
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 1800 425 3575 OR EMAIL
US AT india@globusfamily.com
TRAVEL ETIQUETTES
Prior to your journey, it is important that you read your travel documents and the
brochure thoroughly, so 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. We urge
you to also familiarize yourself with the following expected travel etiquette:
Why It's Important to Follow Etiquette
Every citizen is their home country's ambassador, especially when traveling overseas!
Our vacations are of international standards and quality, and include travel companions
from around the world. Showing respect for cultural differences often gains you
respect in return. Being friendly and a part of the group makes it more enjoyable
for everyone.
Punctuality
It is imperative that you maintain punctuality at all times—for departure times,
optional tours, and meeting times—so that you do not get left behind and so that
all participants can enjoy the tour. It is rude and unfair if your travel companions
have to waste time waiting for you when they could be enjoying the destination.
Moreover, your itinerary has been planned to maximize the touring experience, and
on-time operation is necessary to ensure the planned itinerary can be followed.
We are not liable for any losses you may incur because of poor timekeeping on your
part. We urge you to read our Terms & Conditions to familiarize yourself with
our liability in such situations.
Your Travel Companions
Our vacations are very popular worldwide, and the demographic profile of our travelers
is varied. Passengers are usually of varied ages and professional backgrounds, and
will include many nationalities, including American, English, Canadian, Australian,
New Zealanders, Japanese, Thai, Indian, and many others, providing a wonderful opportunity
to make friends from around the world. Introduce yourself and try to mix with your
fellow travelers. It is good manners and more fun for you than being on your own.
On—Tour Behavior
Showing respect and courtesy to fellow travelers during the journey will likely
earn you the same in return and will result in a positive experience for everyone.
Speaking to others or on a mobile phone when the Tour Director is giving commentary
should be avoided.
Traveling with Children
If you are a parent traveling with children, it is your responsibility to take care
of them and tend to their safety. Most of your travel companions will have a real
interest in learning about the cultures of countries they are touring and want to
enjoy uninterrupted commentary from the Tour Director. It is also a great way for
the children to learn about other places and to respect other cultures.
Your Touring Motorcoach
Eating and smoking on our motorcoaches is strictly prohibited, so 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 dimensions and weight limitations
are given in your travel documents). On the motorcoach, carry only essential items
in a small backpack 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! Trolley bags that are used as
carry-on luggage on airlines are strictly prohibited on the motorcoach.
Your Tour Director & Driver
Every Globus vacation is special because of the experienced, knowledgeable, and
motivated Tour Directors who escort each tour. These friendly professionals are
highly respected, are trained in dealing with people from different cultures and
backgrounds, and work hard to provide you with 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.
Many hold professional degrees and are highly qualified. They justifiably expect
to be treated and respected as professionals.
Your drivers ensure that you have a comfortable and safe journey as you discover
new places on your vacation. They navigate through heavy traffic and ensure your
motorcoach is neat and tidy for your next day of travel. They, too, expect to be
treated with courtesy.
Tour Director & Driver Gratuities
At the end of each tour, our travelers take the opportunity to thank the Tour Directors
and drivers for their services by paying them a gratuity. This has been automatically
included in your invoice at the time of booking, so you don't have to budget for
this at the end of the tour. Please contact us if you prefer to pay the gratuities
directly on your vacation. The exact amount of gratuity that you are paying is included
in the price box for your chosen vacation. You will receive a gratuity voucher with
your travel documents—all you need to do is give this to the Tour Director and the
driver at the end of the tour. Tips charged at the time of booking are fully refundable
if you need to cancel your vacation for any reason. Tips for Local Guides are not
included in this charge. Tips added are only for the main tour and exclude extensions.
You may pay these directly on your vacation.
On—Tour Assistance
If you have an issue or concern, please approach your Tour Director rather than
wait for the situation to escalate, waiting until the end of the tour to bring it
up, not bringing it up at all, or just discussing it with other passengers. The
only person who can help resolve any situation that arises is your Tour Director.
At the same time, be reasonable and understand that s/he is managing a large group.
Everyone wants a wonderful travel experience—including your Tour Director!
In Rome, Do as Romans Do
People everywhere love to welcome visitors to their part of the world. They appreciate
those who take 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!
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 new points of view. Consideration
for others go a long way toward making your own vacation experience an unforgettable
one!
If you have any specific questions on your tour write to us at india@globusfamily.com
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