Got Questions? We’ve Got Answers.
Whether it’s your first Globus tour, or you’re joining us again, we're thrilled you've chosen to travel with us! Either way, you’re sure to have a few questions about what to expect on your vacation. From accommodations to travel tips, we’re here to make preparing for your tour simple and easy.
WHAT YOU MAY LIKE TO KNOW ABOUT YOUR VACATION BEFORE YOU GO
- What exactly is included in my vacation?
- Are prices published on the website is guaranteed?
- Is it mandatory that I give my passport details for booking ?
- Why is my contact information collected when I book ?
- Why am I asked to provide my airline ticket number for flights that were booked independently of Globus?
- Does Globus provide visa assistance?
- When will I receive my travel documents?
- What is the policy if I have to cancel? How can I protect against cancellation?
- Does Globus offer a Travel Protection/Insurance plan for purchase? Is a plan included in the vacation price?
- Are arrival & departure transfers arranged for all vacations?
- What is the difference between a twin-bedded room and a double-bedded room?
- What size is a triple room?
- How Fast-Paced is my vacation going to be?
- How long will we be on the road each day? How often does the motorcoach stop en route?
- How early will I have to wake up on the vacations?
- What meals are included in my vacation? Can I request Indian/vegetarian/special cuisine while on tour?
- When can I purchase optional excursions?
- What size can my suitcase be?
- How is seating determined on the motorcoach or safari vehicles?
- Why should I choose Globus?
- It’s in your interest to book early.
What exactly is included in my vacation?
The true value of your vacation is in the accurate detailed vacation description on the website and in the brochures, which is unusually specific about accommodation, touring in deluxe motorcoaches, sightseeing, and included meals. The agenda for each day is spelled out exactly what is included in the price. Sightseeing with Local Guides is clearly listed. Inside visits are shown as UPPERCASE in the tour description, including admission charges, where applicable
Are prices published on the website is guaranteed?
All vacation prices are per person and based on rates (reflecting foreign exchange rates) known at the time of publication and expected to be in effect at the time of departure. They do not include airfare, except where noted. Prices are subject to increase without notice but are subject to the guarantees set in the terms and conditions. Vacation prices mentioned are per person, based on double occupancy, and do not include airfare, except as noted on the itinerary pages. These costs are as per rates and taxes – including all-important foreign exchange rates – known at the time of costing. Single room supplements and triple room reductions are listed where applicable; not all accommodation types are available on all vacations. We encourage full deposit early to secure your space and to protect the price of your vacation. Prices are subject to increase without notice, subject to the guarantees set forth below. Once Cosmos has received your full non-refundable deposit, your vacation price is guaranteed, and you are protected against any base land price increase due to currency surcharge. Any subsequent cost increases are at our expense, not including energy cost increases and/or any government tax increases.
Is it mandatory that I give my passport details for booking ?
Yes, it is mandatory that you give us the passport information including the name as per the passport, passport number, date of issue, date of expiry, nationality, gender, date of birth and place of the issue at the time of booking. Due to increased travel security around the world, it is now more important than ever that your bookings match your first and last name exactly as it reads on your passport. Additionally, any changes to your booking – land and/or air – which include spelling, could be subject to a change fee, penalties, or cancellation. We do not allow a change in the names of passengers at any time after the booking is made.
Why is my contact information collected when I book ?
There may be times when unforeseen events beyond our control impact travel schedules and potentially disrupt cruises, tours, or packages. These include, but are not limited to, severe weather conditions, acts of nature, and government travel advisories. Under such circumstances, it is critical that the Globus family of brands be able to contact you immediately and reliably—including nights, weekends, and holidays—to make sure we’ve informed you of any possible changes to your travel
Why am I asked to provide my airline ticket number for flights that were booked independently of Globus?
The Globus family of brands utilizes bulk contracts for our air services, which includes intra-vacation air offered on many of our vacations. Depending on the destination, our contracts require us to provide the international ticket number in order to issue the intra-vacation air tickets. If this information is not obtained, either the intra-vacation air or the entire vacation will be cancelled.
Does Globus provide visa assistance?
All travelers are required to check the current visa and entry/exit requirements with the local consulates before their travel and the responsibility for obtaining visas rests with the travelers. Please ensure all your documents are in order when applying for the visas as per the checklist provided by the consulates. Due to the constant changes in the consulates’ document requirements, Globus is unable to offer visa assistance nor does it take any responsibility for obtaining or notifying travelers about visas required for any vacation. Full cancellation as applicable is payable for guaranteed tours if the visa is denied by consulates. We recommend that you apply for visas well in advance and get them in order before guaranteeing. Please consider TRIP PROTECTION to help protect yourself against cancellation penalties arising out of visa rejection or delay (subject to conditions; please see website for details). Please note that certain tours may need more than one visa-such as Schengen visas and UK visas or US and Canada visas. Click here for more information on visas..
When will I receive my travel documents?
Travel documents, including any eTicket receipts, itineraries, and other information, are available two to three weeks prior to departure, provided full payment has been received. You will get e-documents on your GlobusGo Travel App, Click here for more information about the Travel App – GlobusGo
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 Terms & Conditions section as well as on the website and from your travel agent. You can protect yourself against Globus’ cancellation charges by purchasing a Trip Protection plan from us, in case you are cancelling due to a covered reason. We regret the inability to waive cancellation charges that are not covered with Trip Protection due to our commitment to suppliers.
In certain countries and regions, Globus offers Trip Protection / Insurance that protects against trip cancellation, delay, and interruption. This is not comprehensive travel protection and only provides coverage on Globus 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. It cannot be added after the tour is guaranteed. To know more, Click here
Are arrival & departure transfers arranged for all vacations?
The cancellation policy differs based on the tour and the time of cancellation. Guidelines of our cancellation policy are available in the Terms & Conditions section as well as on the website and from your travel agent. You can protect yourself against Globus’ cancellation charges by purchasing a Trip Protection plan from us, in case you are cancelling due to a covered reason. We regret the inability to waive cancellation charges that are not covered with Trip Protection due to our commitment to suppliers.
What is the difference between a twin-bedded room and a double-bedded room?
A double-bedded 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. We usually reserve twin-bedded rooms for our travelers. All requests for double-bedded rooms are subject to availability at the time of check-in.
A triple room is the same size as a twin or double room. It will have beds to accommodate three people; however, we cannot guarantee that there will be three separate beds. If there are only two beds, a rollaway bed may be requested but also cannot be guaranteed. Triple rooms are not available on some of our tours and river cruises.
How Fast-Paced is my vacation going to be?
The Globus family of brands offers over 430 vacations, and while some are very leisurely paced, others are more of a medium pace. Typically, Panorama vacations covering more countries/cities in a short duration make a vacation quick paced; Regional Discoveries are medium to leisurely paced. Every vacation has a pace meter indicating its pace in the brochure.
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, if available. When driving between cities, the motorcoach stops after every 1.5-2 hours at places where you can pick up a snack/meal and use restrooms. 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 traveling, 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 all participants maintain punctuality to ensure that no compromises are made on the inclusions.
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 all vacations. 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 specialties 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 and South America’s Amazon, 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.Click here for a listing of Indian Restaurants to the destinations included in our vacations.
When can I purchase optional excursions?
You can learn about the Activities & Excursions available on your Globus vacation by visiting GlobusJourneys.com/MyGlobus. A complete listing will also be available in your travel documents. These are available to purchase in advance online from 90 to 11 days prior to departure; some may be available to purchase from your Tour Director while on vacation. If the pre-booked optional excursion does not operate due to some reason, the money will be refunded the same way the payment was received.
For Avalon cruises, you may purchase your excursions online at AvalonWaterways.com/MyAvalon from 90 to 11 days prior to departure
Ask your travel agent for more information.
NOTE:activities and excursions are subject to change and may not be available as described; please visit our website for up-to-date information including Terms & Conditions and details regarding payments.
Due to limited motorcoach capacity, your bag should have dimensions not exceeding 30″x21″x11″ or weight not exceeding 22 kgs. Carry-on luggage should not exceed the dimensions of 12″x11″x6.” We regret that we are unable to accept a second suitcase or any luggage exceeding these limits. Please note that air carriers, cruise lines, and other forms of transportation may have other restrictions and requirements including weight, and we recommend that you contact the suppliers directly for additional information. Some airlines also charge for checked-in baggage. Globus is not responsible for any additional fees imposed by airlines on baggage. For Africa vacations, due to the limited capacity of the vehicles, the baggage restrictions differ. Please contact your travel agent for more information.
How is seating determined on the motorcoach or safari vehicles?
We offer a daily rotation of seating, which gives everyone a variety of views. The rotation is mandatory and is adhered to by everyone, without exception. This does not apply to open-air safari vehicles in southern Africa.
Globus vacations are designed to offer you flexibility, choice, and a pace that best fits the way you want to travel. Globus offers MORE included features, MORE quality hotels, and MORE experience, with more than 88 years of taking travelers on unforgettable journeys. You’ll get insider attractions that you’ll merely see from the outside with other travel companies. In addition, Globus offers MORE value, with an average price less per day than our nearest competitor. The safety of our travelers and the richness of our vacations is a priority and it is what has made Globus the worldwide leader in travel and a name you can trust.
It’s in your interest to book early.
Book your vacation as soon as possible to ensure you find space on the vacation of your choice. Many Globus vacations sell out months before departure.
TRAVEL ETIQUETTES
Prior to your journey, it’s 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
- Punctuality
- Your Travel Companions
- On-Tour Behaviour and Hygiene
- Traveling With Children
- Your Touring Motorcoach
- Bags
- Your Tour Director & Driver
- Tour Director & Driver Gratuities
- On-Tour Assistance
- In Rome, Do As Romans Do
- It All Depends on You
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.
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 familiarise yourself with our liability in such situations.
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, British, 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.
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 disturbs others on the motor-coach. Ensure also to be clean and well-groomed while on tour. It will make the tour a pleasant experience and you will look great in your vacation pictures!
Traveling allows children to learn about various places and cultures and respect them. 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.
Eating and smoking on our motorcoaches are strictly prohibited, so you can enjoy your scenic drives in a clean, hygienic, and state-of-the-art environment.
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 too large for motorcoaches and are strictly prohibited on the motorcoach.
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..
Tour Director & Driver Gratuities
Globus and Cosmos Tour Directors and drivers are key reasons why our tours are among the highest rated in the industry. Tipping of these Tour Directors and drivers is customary and greatly appreciated. Tips for these Tour Directors and drivers can be paid on-trip. Amounts are based on our guests’ level of satisfaction, and we provide guidelines in our pre-trip communications to help our advisors and guests plan. Note that we offer an option to pre-pay these tips for Avalon and our Globus and Cosmos tours in non-European destinations.
If you have an issue or concern, please approach your Tour Director immediately. It is not recommended that you wait for the situation to escalate or until the end of the tour to bring it up, not bring it up at all, or just discuss 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!
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!.
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 goes a long way toward making your own vacation experience an unforgettable one!
Booking a Trip FAQs
- How do I find a vacation?
- How is a Globus Independent tour different than other Globus tours?
- How do I make a reservation?
- What is the Travel Protection Plan?
- Why am I asked to give my passport name, gender and date of birth when booking air?
- How does Globus support sustainable travel and protect the environment?
- Are Globus tours disability accessible?
- Why is my contact information collected when I book?
Choose a destination from our Explore Tours page. Click on a specific tour to be linked to a page that provides a tour overview and links to detailed information about the Itinerary, Highlights, Maps, Hotels, Dates, Prices, and more!
How is a Globus Independent tour different than other Globus tours?
With Globus Independent, you still enjoy the many benefits of a Globus tour, with an added focus on free time that’s untethered and unscheduled. Like our other award-winning vacations, Globus Independent tours handle the details with included accommodations, daily breakfasts, select guided sightseeing, and transportation between cities - with air travel and airport transfers upon request. The big difference? Globus Independent puts the “I” in independent travel with built-in free time to explore as you please – with a wealth of expertly selected Insider Tips for optional excursions and I-Time exploits that speak to you!
Once you have found a vacation that interests you, you can use the "Book It" button located on the tour page. You can also contact a travel advisor or call us at 1.866.755.8581 with any questions and to book your exciting Globus experience.
What is the Travel Protection Plan?
The Travel Protection Plan offers important services to help protect your vacation purchase. Under the Trip Cancellation Waiver, you can cancel your trip any time up to departure for several eligible reasons as listed in the plan and receive a refund of the normally non-refundable Globus cancellation penalty amount, less the cost of your Travel Protection. If your reason for cancellation does not qualify for a cash refund, you would instead receive a Cancel for Any Reason travel certificate equal to the cancellation penalty amount, less the cost of your Travel Protection. The travel certificate is valid for travel within two years from the original canceled vacation start date, is non-transferable, non-refundable and may not be redeemed for cash.
In addition, the plan offers Travel Insurance benefits, including Trip Cancellation for independent air arrangements, Trip Interruption, Trip Delay, medical expense, emergency medical transportation, baggage loss, theft, damage or delay coverage, 24-hour emergency assistance services, and more.
Why am I asked to give my passport name, gender, and date of birth when booking air?
Due to increased travel security around the world, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires airlines to collect this information in accordance with the Secure Flight Program enacted by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. If the name on the airline reservation does not match the name exactly as it appears on your passport or other government-issued ID being used at the time of travel, you may not be allowed to board the plane. It is also important that this information be provided correctly at the time of booking, as any changes to your air booking, which includes spelling, could be subject to a change fee, penalties, higher fares, new schedule, and/or cancellation. TSA information is required within 10 days of booking air with Globus.
How does Globus support sustainable travel and protect the environment?
Globus is committed to minimizing our impact on the environment and to reducing dependence on non-renewable resources. In this endeavor, we have implemented policies to support this mission and are working carefully to enhance our products with this mission and our values combined. We are committed to complying with all relevant legislation and/or regulations.
Are Globus tours disability accessible?
Globus makes reasonable attempts to accommodate the special needs of disabled and mobility-impaired travelers but is not responsible in the event it is unable to do so. Because we cannot provide individual assistance to travelers in many situations, and most of our transportation services are not equipped with wheelchair ramps, we recommend that you view our terms and conditions for details and contact us to learn more.
Why is my contact information collected when I book?
There may be times when unforeseen events beyond our control impact travel schedules and potentially disrupt your vacation. These include, but are not limited to, severe weather conditions, acts of nature, and government travel advisories. Under such circumstances, it is critical that Globus be able to contact you immediately and effectively - including nights, weekends, and holidays - to make sure we’ve informed you of any possible changes to your travel.
Additionally, the care and safety of our guests have always been our highest priority. There may be a need to contact you while on the trip or to contact someone back home due to an unforeseen event that happens while on the trip. Therefore, in addition to pre-trip contact information, we also require an emergency contact name and number, as well as an on-trip phone number for all travelers .
Preparing for Your Vacation FAQs
- Do I need a passport and a visa?
- What size can my suitcase be?
- How many bags am I allowed to bring?
- What is the difference between a twin-bedded room and a double room?
- What size is a triple room?
- When are final hotel accommodations confirmed?
- When will I receive my travel documents?
- Where can I find information on currency rates?
- Can I pre-pay my gratuities before my vacation?
Do I need a passport and a visa?
When traveling outside the United States, a passport is required for U.S. citizens and many countries require that the passport be valid for at least 6 months after the date of travel. Some countries also require a visa. We know that navigating visa applications and requirements can be confusing. We can help. Globus is pleased to offer its customers the expertise and experience of iVisa, with fast and easy ways to obtain visas, passports, and/or other documents required for travel. You can check visa requirements for your vacation by visiting the iVisa Web site at www.ivisa.com. Simply select your country of travel to obtain any necessary visa forms.
What size can my suitcase be?
Due to limited coach capacity, your bag should have dimensions not exceeding 30"x21"x11" (62" linear dimensions) or weight exceeding 50 lbs. Carry-on bags should not exceed the dimensions of 12"x11"x6". Please note that air carriers, cruise lines and other forms of transportation may have other restrictions and requirements including weight, and we recommend that you contact the suppliers directly for additional information. We regret we are unable to accept a second suitcase or any luggage exceeding these limits.
Some airlines are also charging fees for checked baggage, and these fees are not included in the vacation or airfare package price. Please check with your airline directly for baggage information and regulations. Globus is not responsible for any additional fees imposed by air carriers regarding baggage.
How many bags am I allowed to bring?
Hotel porterage (where available) for one bag per participant is included in the price on Globus and Avalon. Additional bags, if space is available, are charged extra and payable to the Tour or Cruise Director. If no space is available, you are responsible for arrangements for your extra bag(s) from location to location at your expense.
Porterage is not included at train stations or at airports. Additionally, porterage is not included at hotels on Cosmos; exceptions exist on select tours based on hotel facilities and operational necessity.
For specific vacation restrictions and information, please refer to the Terms and Conditions as well as your Travel Documents. Each vacation may have slight modifications to the above.
Your air carrier may have stricter weight/dimension limitations than Globus. Size and weight limitations for carry on and checked baggage vary from airline to airline and even according to destination. Up-to-date information on carrier specific standard checked baggage allowance (including size and weight limitations), the standard allowance (and fee, if applicable) for carry-on baggage, and the standard fee for the first and second checked bag, along with information that additional discounts may apply depending on flyer-specific factors (e.g. frequent flyer status, military, credit card used for purchase or early purchase online, etc.) can be found by accessing www.iflybags.com. Globus is not responsible for additional fees imposed by air carriers regarding baggage. Regulations within most airports require that passengers handle their own luggage through customs. No responsibility is accepted for loss of or damage to baggage or any of the traveler's belongings throughout the duration of the vacation. Baggage insurance is recommended. Review our comprehensive Travel Protection Plan for available coverage options.
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 guests.
What size is a triple room?
A triple room is the same size as a twin-bedded room. It will have beds to accommodate three people; however, we cannot guarantee that there will be three separate beds. If there are only two beds, a rollaway may be requested but also cannot be guaranteed.
When are final hotel accommodations confirmed?
The hotels and accommodations listed are provisional and subject to change and may be substituted with properties of similar standard. Hotels are confirmed approximately 30 days prior to departure and can be found in your travel documents, but are not guaranteed until check-in.
When will I receive my travel documents?
Travel documents, including any air tickets, itineraries, and other information, are available approximately two to three weeks prior to departure provided full payment has been received.
Where can I find information on currency rates?
If you are in the process of planning your vacation and need information on currency exchange rates, access our currency converter tool.
Can I pre-pay my gratuities before my trip?
Globus offers passengers the ability to pre-pay their Tour Director and Driver gratuities before departure in select destinations. A base per-person gratuity rate is calculated for each vacation in North America, South America, Africa, and Asia to conveniently provide gratuities for the Tour Director and Driver, however, Local Guides and other personnel are not covered in this amount. You can pre-purchase gratuities at the time of booking online or over the phone or they can be added after you’re already booked. NOTE: Tips to Local Guides are included in pre-paid gratuities in South America. European and South Pacific tours are excluded from pre-paid gratuities, but you are welcome to offer tips directly on tour.
When On Vacation FAQs
When can I purchase optional excursions?
You can view and pre-purchase optional excursions 90 days before your vacation starts, which will also be available while you're on vacation. If you are traveling on a Choice tour, or on Globus Independent, optional and choice excursions are available immediately after receiving your deposit. A list of excursions will be included in your documents for review prior to departure. By purchasing excursions beforehand, you have the opportunity to craft a more personal touring experience and plan your time and budget in advance. To purchase excursions for your Globus tour, log in to the MyGlobus site (you will need your invoice/reservation number).
How is seating determined on the coach?
We offer daily rotation of seating, which gives everyone a variety of views.
Committed to Your Health & Safety
Our Global Health & Safety Team has established a worldwide Assurance program, with enhanced on-trip protocols and procedures, to ensure the health and happiness of our guests. Learn more about Globus' On-Trip Assurance.
Globus Program to Cuba FAQs
- How is it possible to travel to Cuba?
- What is Support for the Cuban People?
- How much free time will I have in Cuba?
- What type of hotels will I stay in?
- Can I bring my children on the trip?
- What type credit card/currency should I use?
- Can I bring a camera to Cuba?
- Will my cell phone work in Cuba?
- What documents do I need for this trip?
- Do I need a passport & visa?
- What items can I bring back to the U.S.?
How is it possible to travel to Cuba?
The Cuba program featured is not a tour but a Support for the Cuban People program, operated under a United States Department of the Treasury, Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) general license. Globus previously applied for and received individual licenses from OFAC. Thus travelers with Globus can be confident that our itinerary is compliant with all OFAC requirements. You will not travel as a “tourist” but as part of a Support for the Cuban People program and must participate in all program activities.
What is Support for the Cuban People?
The Support for the Cuban People program is a full-time schedule of opportunities to engage directly with the Cuban people. Our program features meaningful encounters and activities with Cuba’s residents, musicians, students, artists, private business owners, and entrepreneurs. These will be rewarding cultural and educational exchanges, allowing participants to share their culture and ideas with the Cuban people while learning about them at the same time.
How much free time will I have in Cuba?
Under OFAC requirements, all travelers must participate in a full-time schedule of Support for the Cuban People activities during the day. During the early morning hours and evenings, you will be able to explore on your own.
Hotels are conveniently located first-class or best available accommodations featuring private bathroom, hairdryer, bath amenities, air-conditioning, satellite TV, and telephone. Some programs visit remote areas where some facilities are not up to the first-class standards you expect from Globus. However, we have selected the best available hotels that satisfy our high standards of cleanliness and comfort. For more information on specific hotels used on our program, please visit our website.
Can I bring my children on the trip?
Travelers under 18 years old on the departure date must be accompanied by an adult throughout the trip and must share an adult’s accommodation. Children under 8 years of age are not allowed on our Cuba programs.
Checks, credit cards, and debit cards issued by U.S. Banks may not be useable in Cuba. With a few exceptions, certain hotels may accept US credit cards. Note: this may change at any time.
We suggest you bring cash (USD or Euros) in small denominations to use while in Cuba. This cash can be used at private business, and you often get a better exchange rate than using the Cuban Peso. For your convenience, very little cash is needed for these programs, as the majority of meals, activities, and gratuities are included. We recommend you bring as much cash as you would normally spend on incidentals, souvenirs, gifts, etc. while traveling elsewhere.
PLEASE NOTE: Torn bills and those with writing on them are not accepted for exchange. USD/Euro coins are also not accepted.
Can I bring a camera to Cuba?You may bring one camera and one video camera into Cuba. Professional photo equipment is not allowed. Your Cuban National Guide will outline what you may and may not photograph.
NOTE: Spare batteries, film, memory cards, etc., are not easy to find in Cuba, so pack extras.
Will my cell phone work in Cuba?In general, U.S. cell phones, including smart phones, may or may not work in Cuba. Please check with your carrier before leaving home. You will be able to use your hotel phone but this can be expensive. Another option is to download the WHATS APP on your cell phone prior to travel. WHATS APP can be used to text and make calls from Cuba when using Wi-Fi.
What documents do I need for this trip?
Due to the special requirements to visit Cuba, participants will be required to complete and sign a travel affidavit confirming that they are traveling on a Support for the Cuban People program and are aware of the travel rules. Participants are also required to read and acknowledge the Notice of Cuba Program Information (Cuba travel tips). Further, you must fill out the D’Viajeros Health Form online no more than 48 hours prior to travel to Cuba. Go to “dviajeros.mitrans.gob.cu”. It is in Spanish but if you click on the upper right “Language” tab and select Ingles/English, it will translate into English. After you have completed the form make sure that you view the PDF and save it on your phone. It is also suggested that you print it and bring it with you. Note: This online form is mandatory and replaced a paper Health Declaration form that all guests used to fill out upon arrival prior to Covid.
Do I need a passport & visa?
A passport (valid for at least six months after the scheduled return date) is required for programs to Cuba. A visa is also required to travel to Cuba. Your airline will help you obtain the visa and advise cost.
What items can I bring back to the U.S.?
Any items brought back to the United States must be imported for personal use and limits on duty and tax exemptions will apply. These items may include artwork, handmade items, crafts, books, and music. Authorized travelers to Cuba may purchase alcohol and tobacco products while in Cuba but they must be consumed in Cuba. You may no longer return to the United States with alcohol and tobacco products.