FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How large are the tour groups?
Normally, the groups have about 20-25 people. We have found this is just the right size for people to meet each other, interact, and move without delays when boarding and exiting buses and various sites. Groups this size allow for much more flexibility.
Are trips limited to Binghamton University alumni only?
Anyone who is interested in the cultural focus of the trip is welcome; we embrace friends, relatives and children of the tour participants. We have included people who hear about the trip from others. The main thing is that all participants share an interest in the cultural subject and destination.
Are the trips suitable for children?
Clearly, each parent or grandparent has to decide if the minor is ready for international travel and spending most of their time with adults, doing museums and following a loosely structured program. Age is not the only factor; social and intellectual maturity really are the controlling factors.
Must I do all the sightseeing?
No. We try to plan activities that are not strenuous or taxing. So, we might do some sightseeing or a museum in the morning and allow free time in the afternoon. That way, people have the option of pressing on with more sightseeing, or enjoying a leisurely lunch and just relaxing. If at any time, any participant wishes to withdraw from the touring, they are free to return to the bus or the hotel, depending on circumstances.
What is included in the price?
We include the airfare, hotel accommodations, some meals and specify the included sightseeing. We allow for people to experience some dining experiences on their own, as a part of the joys of discovery. We do not include air taxes, security and fuel charges, because these cannot be fixed until the ticket is issued. Neither do we include gratuities; these are optional and at the discretion of each person. However, we do provide an envelope and suggest an appropriate sum. Other than specific personal gratuities, it is easier if the group leader distributes "group applicable gratuities."
Will there be a guide throughout?
There will be a tour manager with the group who is responsible for the delivery of all services and to whom people can lodge complaints or request specific information. In addition, most countries require local guides. The tour manager and our office are connected with an office in Switzerland that maintains emergency service 24 hours a day.
When are deposits and final payment due?
We suggest that deposits be sent in as quickly as possible to avoid the disappointment of the trip being sold out. About 75 days prior to the actual departure, you will receive an invoice for final payment and flight information. This statement will include the taxes, security charges and fuel surcharge because, at that point, we are prepared to ticket. Final payments are due within 10 days of the receipt. As an accommodation, we will accept partial payments of the invoice for payment.
