Local Living France: Toulouse - 7 Days

Frequently asked questions

• Are international flights included in this trip?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. However, on some combo tours travelling between two different countries, international flights are included as part of the itinerary and price of the tour. Please speak to your GCO or booking agent for further details.

• Are there any health considerations I should know before travelling?

  Inoculations may be required, so consult your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure. We recommend carrying a First Aid kit, hand sanitizers, and personal medical requirements, as we may be in remote areas away from medical facilities. Leaders are prohibited from administering drugs. Please assess your ability to cope with the style of travel.

• Is travel insurance required for my trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You will not be permitted to join without proof of coverage for medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation (minimum USD200,000). Personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and luggage loss are also strongly recommended.

• What is the maximum group size?

  The maximum group size is 14 travellers, with an average of 12.

• What is the minimum age to join the trip?

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

• Is there an extra cost for solo travelers?

  Our group trips are designed for shared accommodation without a single supplement. Single travellers are paired in twin or multi-share rooms with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. If you book the 'My Own Room' option, you will receive your own single room for all night stops, though these accommodations in European hotels are often smaller.

• What type of accommodation is provided?

  Accommodation will be in hotels for 6 nights. Please be aware that properties we stay in with only two stories may not have elevators installed and climbing the stairs with your luggage will be necessary.

• What meals are included in this trip?

  6 breakfasts are included. Generally, other meals are not included to provide flexibility in deciding where, what, and with whom to eat. Your CEO will be able to suggest favorite local restaurants.

• What modes of transportation are used on this trip?

  Intercity transport on this trip will mainly be by public train, supplemented by walking. We also use public transport such as metro and taxis to get to train and bus stations. You should be able to comfortably carry your luggage for short distances (up to 15 minutes walk) and onto public transport.

• What are the main highlights of this trip?

  The main highlights include strolling the sun-soaked streets of Toulouse (the Pink City), exploring the medieval hilltop fortress of Carcassonne, visiting Lourdes as a place of pilgrimage and reflection, and wandering the UNESCO-listed town of Albi known for its stunning cathedral.

• What optional activities are available in Toulouse?

  Optional activities in Toulouse include visiting the Musée des Augustins, Cité de l'Espace, Halle de La Machine, or the Aeroscopia experience. During high season (May-October), it's highly recommended to book reservations for popular optional activities in advance.

• What about tipping on this trip?

  Tipping is customary in Europe. A general rule for wait staff is 10% of the bill, and €1 or €2 for other service providers. For local guides, €3-€5 per day is recommended. For your CEO, €6-€8 per person per day (or €30-€40 per person per week) can be used as a guideline.

• What should I know about currency and credit cards?

  The local currency is Euros. Credit cards and debit cards (especially Visa) are useful for cash advances, though their functionality can vary, so check with your bank. Do not rely solely on cards; a combination of euros, traveler's cheques, and cards is best. Expect a 5-10% fee for credit card purchases.

• What are the safety and security considerations for this trip?

  Always keep an eye on your belongings, especially in major cities and transport terminals. Use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables. Leave expensive jewelry at home. Many hotels have safety deposit boxes. While cities are generally safe during the day, for night excursions, travel in small groups and consider using taxis. Your CEO can amend itineraries for safety reasons and will accompany you on all included activities. Optional activities are at your own discretion and risk.

• What rules should I be aware of during the trip?

  Illegal drugs will not be tolerated, as they contravene local laws and endanger the group. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is also strictly against our philosophy. CEOs have the right to expel any group member found with drugs or using paid sex worker services.

• How should I dress to respect local customs?

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

• Who will be leading the group on this tour?

  This group trip is accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) and local guides. The CEO will provide general knowledge, logistics, and recommendations, while local guides offer specific expertise in particular cities as they are licensed to do so.

• When can I do laundry during the trip?

  Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge, or your CEO can direct you to the closest laundromat. We suggest bringing non-polluting/biodegradable soap for personal laundry.

• What is the Planeterra Foundation?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization that helps local communities earn income from tourism by developing and supporting community-owned businesses, which are then integrated into the tour operator's itineraries globally. The tour operator covers all operating costs, ensuring 100% of donations go directly to Planeterra projects.

• What are the visa and entry requirements for France?

  All countries require a valid passport (with a minimum 6 months validity). Visa requirements vary by nationality. For the Schengen area (which includes France), a Schengen visa usually allows free travel within the region. As of 2025, ETIAS travel authorization will be an entry requirement for visa-exempt nationals. It is your responsibility to check the most up-to-date requirements with your local embassy/consulate or travel agent.

• What should LGBTQ+ travellers know about safety?

  The safety and well-being of all travelers, including the LGBTQ+ community, is a priority. We encourage you to visit the tour operator's LGBTQ+ page for useful resources to ensure you feel safe and comfortable throughout the duration of your trip.