Road Trippin’ American West - 9 Days

Frequently asked questions

• Are there specific considerations for LGBTQ+ travelers?

  The tour operator prioritizes the safety and well-being of all travelers, including those who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community. They encourage visiting their LGBTQ+ page for useful resources and information to ensure comfort and safety throughout the trip.

• What is the Planeterra Foundation?

  The Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization that helps local communities earn income from tourism by developing and supporting small community-owned businesses, promoting sustainable travel, and integrating these projects into tour itineraries. You can contribute to their 'Dollar-a-day Program' to empower communities visited on your travels, with 100% of donations going directly to projects.

• Will there be opportunities to do laundry during the trip?

  Laundry can be done at least once a week. Some hotels and most cities have laundromats with coin-operated machines. Your CEO will provide guidance on where to do laundry.

• What should I know about safety and security on my trip?

  It is recommended to check your government's travel advice. Use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables and leave expensive jewelry at home. Many hotels offer safety deposit boxes. While cities are generally safe during the day, it's advised to stay in small groups and use taxis at night. Your CEO can amend the itinerary due to safety concerns and will accompany you on all included activities. Optional activities in free time are at your own judgment and risk.

• Are there specific rules of conduct I should be aware of?

  Illegal drugs are not tolerated, and their possession or use can lead to expulsion from the group. Respect towards local people is paramount, and the exploitation of prostitutes is strictly against the tour philosophy. CEOs have the right to expel any group member for these violations.

• What is the legal drinking age in the United States?

  The legal drinking age in the United States is 21. Many bars and clubs strictly enforce this, requiring ID at the door, which may limit participation in certain optional nighttime activities for those under age.

• What are the visa and entry requirements for this trip?

  All countries require a valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity. It is your responsibility to check and obtain the most up-to-date visa requirements from your local embassy or consulate, or consult your travel agent.

• Is travel insurance required for my trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You must have medical coverage with a minimum of USD $200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. Coverage for personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and lost luggage is also strongly recommended.

• What is the tipping custom in North America?

  Tipping service providers like waiters, bartenders, and taxi drivers is customary (approximately 18-20%). For local guides, $2-8 USD per activity is recommended. A guideline for tipping your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) is $10-15 USD per person, per day, based on satisfaction.

• What currency is used and what are the recommendations for money and credit cards?

  The official currency is the US Dollar (USD). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's recommended to carry a combination of US Dollars in cash (preferably smaller bills), traveler's cheques, and credit cards. Ensure your credit/debit cards have 4-digit PINs and check with your bank about foreign transaction fees and international usage. Currency exchange is difficult to find in the USA, so it's best to obtain USD prior to travel or at the airport. An emergency fund of at least USD $200 is also recommended.

• What is the physical activity level of the hikes?

  All proposed walks and hikes will be easy to moderate level. Participation is optional, but exploring national parks on foot is encouraged as a healthy way to discover the beauty of North America.

• Who will be leading the group?

  The group will be led by one Chief Experience Officer (CEO), who acts as the group manager, leader, and driver. They have broad general knowledge of the visited countries and will assist with logistics, local recommendations, and organize meal preparations.

• How will we travel between destinations?

  We will travel in air-conditioned 15-passenger vans (for up to 14 people plus the CEO/Driver), hiking, and walking. These vans are equipped with mandatory seat belts for safety.

• Are there any optional activities available?

  Yes, optional activities include The Narrows Hike (free) in Zion National Park, Queen's Garden and Navajo Loop Hike (free) in Bryce Canyon National Park (note: Navajo Loop may be closed), an Antelope Canyon Tour ($105 USD per person), Bright Angel Trail Hike (free) in Grand Canyon National Park, and a Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour (cost not specified).

• What is included in the tour price?

  Included are a welcome meeting with your CEO and group, visits to Joshua Tree, Zion, and Bryce Canyon National Parks, a visit to Horseshoe Bend, a Navajo guided Monument Valley jeep tour, a full day of hiking in Grand Canyon National Park, driving along Route 66, entrance fees to all national parks and monuments (other than non-resident national park fees) with hiking and walking excursions, and all transport between destinations and to/from included activities.

• What meals are included in the tour price?

  The tour includes 4 breakfasts and 3 lunches.

• What are the age restrictions for this tour?

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

• What is the maximum group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 13 travelers.

• Can I get my own room if I am a solo traveler?

  If you have booked the "My Own Room" option, you will receive your own single room for all night stops. Otherwise, single travelers on group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex.

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

  This trip uses 2-3 star hotels and motels in cities and near park entrances. The rooms are double occupancy with a private bathroom, and standards may vary.