France & Spain Encompassed - 14 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What is the minimum and maximum age for participants on this tour?

  This tour is designed for participants between 12 and 100 years old.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The tour group size ranges from 1 to a maximum of 16 participants.

• What type of accommodation can I expect during the tour?

  You will be staying in hotels for all 13 nights. These are typically small, family-run hotels or pensions (with the exception of the larger city hotels at the start and finish), offering clean, safe, simple accommodation in central locations. Please note that most European hotels do not have air conditioning, but a fan can be requested.

• Are there extra costs for solo travelers regarding accommodation?

  For group trips, there is no single supplement as accommodation is designed for shared rooms with someone of the same sex. If you book the "My Own Room" option, you will receive a single room for all nights, though these may be smaller than double-occupancy rooms.

• What meals are included in the tour price?

  The tour includes 13 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 1 dinner.

• How will we travel between destinations and within cities?

  Intercity travel will primarily be by public bus and train, which are generally efficient in France and Spain. Within cities and to/from stations, public transport like metro and taxis will be used, along with walking. You should be able to comfortably carry your own luggage for short distances (up to 15 minutes walk).

• Who will be leading our tour group?

  A Chief Experience Officer (CEO) will lead the group throughout the tour, and local guides will also be utilized for specific activities and city explorations.

• What are some of the main highlights or included activities on this trip?

  Highlights include a Paris-by-night orientation walk, CEO-led walking tour of Paris, Lyon walking tour with a local guide, visiting the Pont du Gard, a guided walking tour of Barcelona, a hike on the Camino de Santiago trail, and visits to the royal palace of Olite and Pamplona. Wine tasting in Logroño and a Pintxos experience are also included.

• What optional activities are available on this tour?

  Optional activities include Eiffel Tower visits, Louvre visits, and river cruises in Paris; Montjuïc, Sagrada Familia, Parque Güell, Casa Batlló visits in Barcelona; Logroño Cathedral and Museum of La Rioja visits; San Sebastian cider house visits, eBike tours, walking tours, or cooking classes; and Guggenheim Museum visits, Parque Etxebarria, or Basilica of Begoña visits in Bilbao.

• What currency should I use, and what should I know about money and credit cards?

  The local currency is Euros. Credit and debit cards, especially Visa, are useful for cash advances, and ATMs are widely available, but it's recommended to check with your bank about international usage. A combination of Euros, travelers cheques, and cards is best. Expect a 5-10% fee for credit card purchases. You should also have access to an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an emergency fund.

• Are there any health considerations or vaccinations required for this trip?

  Inoculations may be required, and it's your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor well before departure for up-to-date medical travel information. It's recommended to carry a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers. Tour leaders are prohibited from administering drugs.

• What are the safety guidelines for the tour, especially during free time?

  Always keep an eye on your belongings, particularly in major cities and transport terminals. It is strongly recommended to use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables. Leave valuable jewelry at home. During free time, use good judgment, and at night, it's recommended to stay in small groups and take taxis to and from restaurants or excursions. Your CEO accompanies all included activities.

• What are the guidelines for tipping on this trip?

  Tipping is customary in Europe, generally 10% for wait staff and €1-€2 for other service providers. For local guides, a recommendation is €3-5 per day. For your Chief Experience Officer (CEO), €30-€40 per person per week is a guideline if you felt they did an outstanding job.

• How should I dress to respect local customs, particularly in religious places?

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

• Can I do laundry during the trip?

  Some hotels offer laundry facilities for a charge. Alternatively, your CEO can direct you to the closest laundromat. Bringing non-polluting/biodegradable soap is suggested if you plan to do your own laundry.

• Is travel insurance mandatory for this tour?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You must be covered for medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation, with a minimum coverage of USD200,000. It's highly recommended to also cover personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage/personal effects. Ensure your policy covers all included activities.

• Are international flights included in the tour price?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. You should contact your airline for baggage allowances and check-in information.