Best of Spain & Portugal - 14 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What type of accommodation is provided on this tour?

  You will be staying in small, family-run hotels or pensions for 13 nights. While standards may vary (some may not have elevators or air-conditioning), they are generally clean, safe, simple, and in convenient central locations.

• Is air conditioning available in the hotels?

  Most accommodation in Europe does not have air conditioning units in rooms. However, nearly all hotels will provide a standing or desk fan for your room on hot nights upon request.

• What if I book a 'My Own Room' option?

  If you book the 'My Own Room' option, you will receive your own single room for all night stops. Please be aware that single room accommodations in European hotels are often smaller and may not be to the same service level as double-occupancy rooms.

• What meals are included in the tour price?

  The tour includes 13 breakfasts and 2 dinners. Lunches are not typically included to give you maximum flexibility in choosing where, what, and with whom to eat.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The tour operates with a small group size, ranging from a minimum of 1 to a maximum of 16 participants.

• What is the main focus of the "Best of Spain & Portugal" tour?

  The tour focuses on the dynamic culture, compelling history, and cuisine of the Iberian Peninsula, highlighting Moorish history, flamenco, the Alhambra, and Gaudí’s Barcelona.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The tour is designed for small groups, with a maximum of 16 participants.

• What type of accommodation can I expect on this tour?

  You will stay in small, family-run hotels or pensions that are typically centrally located. Please note that some may not have elevators or air-conditioning. Single rooms booked with the "My Own Room" option may be smaller than double-occupancy rooms.

• How physically demanding is this tour?

  This tour has a physical rating of 2. Travelers should have an average level of fitness and mobility, be able to walk without aid, climb 3-4 flights of stairs, and carry their own luggage.

• Who will be leading the tour and what is their role?

  A Chief Experience Officer (CEO) will accompany you throughout the trip, providing information, suggestions, and managing logistics. Additionally, local guides will provide historical facts and guided tours in specific cities as they are licensed to do so.

• What modes of transportation are used during the tour?

  Transportation between destinations will primarily be by local bus and train, along with an internal flight from Porto to Madrid. You should be prepared to carry your luggage short distances and up/down stairs. A 20kg luggage restriction applies to the internal flight.

• What meals are included in the tour price?

  The tour includes 13 breakfasts and 2 dinners. Other meals are generally not included, allowing you flexibility in choosing where and what to eat.

• What are some of the key cultural experiences and sights included in the tour?

  Included highlights are a Fado Night with a traditional Portuguese meal in Lisbon, a Port Wine Cellar visit in Porto, entrance to the Batalha gothic monastery, a guided tour of the Alhambra in Granada, a visit to the Mezquita Mosque and Jewish quarter in Cordoba, a Flamenco show, and a Mescladis Paella Cooking Class and Dinner in Barcelona.

• Are there any popular attractions that I should book tickets for in advance?

  Yes, it is highly recommended to reserve tickets in advance for popular sites to avoid long waits, especially during high season. These include La Sagrada Familia, Park Guell, Casa Batlló, and Casa Milà in Barcelona; the Prado Museum in Madrid; and the Alcázar Palace in Seville.

• What currency should I use and what are the recommendations for managing money?

  Spain and Portugal are in the Eurozone, so the unit of currency is the Euro (€). It's best to carry a combination of Euros cash and credit/debit cards. Be aware that many ATM machines only accept 4-digit PINs. An emergency fund of at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) is also recommended.

• Is tipping customary in Spain and Portugal?

  Yes, tipping is customary in Europe. A general rule is 10% of the bill for wait staff, and a smaller amount (€1 or €2) for other service providers. For local guides, recommendations range from €3-€5 per day. A tip of €30-€40 per person per week for your CEO is also appreciated.

• What should I know about visiting the Alhambra?

  Due to ticketing regulations, your passport information must be provided to the tour operator at the time of booking to guarantee your guided tour of the Alhambra. If your booking is confirmed less than 90 days prior to departure, a guided tour cannot be guaranteed, and alternative options like a self-guided visit or nearby district tours may be arranged. Visits may take place on Day 9 or 10.

• What should I do if I have a pre-existing medical condition?

  Travelers with a pre-existing medical condition are required to complete a short medical questionnaire, signed by their physician, to ensure they have the necessary fitness and mobility for the trip. You should also consult your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information and inoculations well before departure.