Classic Portugal: Mainland & Azores Adventure - 12 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What should I know about currency, credit cards, and exchanging money while on this tour?

  The local currency is Euros. Credit and debit cards are useful for cash advances, with Visa being widely accepted. While ATMs are common, there's no guarantee your cards will work everywhere, so it's best to carry a combination of Euros, traveller's cheques, and cards. Be aware that a 5-10% fee may apply to credit card purchases.

• What is Planeterra and how is it related to the tour operator?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization that helps local communities earn income from tourism by developing community-owned businesses. The tour operator is Planeterra's largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs so 100% of donations go directly to projects that support Indigenous people, empower women, offer youth employment, and protect the environment.

• Can I do laundry during the trip?

  Some hotels offer laundry facilities for a charge, or your CEO can direct you to the closest laundromat. You may also need to do hand laundry, so bringing biodegradable soap is suggested.

• What about emergency funds for unforeseen circumstances?

  It is recommended to have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an emergency fund for unforeseen circumstances outside of the tour operator's control, such as natural disasters requiring a route change. This is a rare occurrence.

• What is the local dress code, especially for religious sites?

  When visiting places of religious worship, travellers are expected to dress modestly, with shoulders and knees covered.

• What are the health considerations for this trip?

  It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information and required inoculations. It's recommended to carry a first aid kit and personal medical requirements, as medical facilities may be remote at times. Leaders cannot administer drugs.

• Is tipping customary in Portugal and the Azores?

  Yes, tipping is customary in Europe. A general guideline is 10% for wait staff and €1-€2 for other service providers. For local guides, €6-€8 per day is recommended. For your CEO, €30-€40 per person per week is a guideline if you are satisfied with their service.

• How does accommodation work for solo travellers?

  Solo travellers are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex. If you book the 'My Own Room' option, you will receive your own single room for all night stops, though single rooms in Europe can often be smaller.

• Is travel insurance required for this tour?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You will need to provide evidence of coverage for medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation (minimum USD200,000), to your leader.

• What are the optional activities available during the tour?

  Optional activities include visiting São Jorge Castle or taking a Lisbon Food Tour in Lisbon, exploring Coimbra University or taking day trips to Aveiro or Fátima from Coimbra, taking a Douro River cruise or visiting the Lello Bookstore in Porto, and exploring Jardim António Borges or Forte de São Brás in Ponta Delgada.

• Are there any age restrictions for participants?

  You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.

• What is the role of the CEO (Chief Experience Officer) on this trip?

  A CEO (Chief Experience Officer) accompanies the group throughout the trip. Their role is to facilitate your travels, provide information on places, suggest activities, recommend local eating venues, and introduce you to local friends. They are not traditional guides but have broad general knowledge and will use local guides for more specific historical information in certain areas.

• What is the physical rating of this tour?

  This tour has a physical rating of 3, indicating a moderate level of activity that includes hiking and exploring.

• What meals are included during the tour?

  The tour includes 11 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 1 dinner.

• Are international flights included in the tour price?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of this tour, though internal flights between São Miguel and Terceira islands are included.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 16 travellers, with an average of 12.

• What types of transportation are used during the tour?

  Transportation on this trip primarily includes walking, private vehicles, public buses, trains, and internal flights between the mainland and the Azores islands. You will also take taxis and metro to reach train and bus stations.

• What kind of accommodation can I expect on this trip?

  You can expect to stay in small, locally-run hotels or pensions for 11 nights. European hotels tend to be older with smaller rooms and bathrooms, and some may not have elevators or air-conditioning, but they are typically clean, safe, and centrally located.

• What are the main highlights of the 'Classic Portugal: Mainland & Azores Adventure' tour?

  This tour highlights include savoring local delicacies and port wine in Porto, wandering through Lisbon's seven hills, embarking on a mystical hike to the Azores’ highest body of water (Lagoa do Fogo), a walking tour of Angra do Heroísmo’s UNESCO World Heritage site, and exploring ancient lava caves.

• What is the overall travel style of this tour?

  The travel style for this tour is 'Classic'.