Spain & Portugal: Flamenco & Tapas - 10 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What is the age range for this tour?

  This tour is designed for travelers aged 18 to 39 years, aligning with the "18-to-Thirtysomethings" travel style.

• How large are the tour groups typically?

  The maximum group size is 16 travelers, with an average of 14.

• I am a solo traveler, will I have to pay extra for accommodation?

  No, solo travelers are paired in multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex, so there is no single supplement. If you book the "My Own Room" option, you will receive a single room for all night stops.

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

  You will be staying in hostels for 9 nights, typically in multi-share rooms with 4-6 people. Most accommodation will have shared bathroom facilities.

• Do the accommodations have air conditioning?

  Most accommodations in Europe do not have air conditioning units in rooms, as it's not routinely installed. However, nearly all hotels will provide a standing or desk fan on hot nights if you request one from your CEO.

• What modes of transportation are used during the tour?

  Intercity travel will be by local buses and trains. Within cities, you'll use a mix of metro, local buses, taxis, and walking.

• Will I need to carry my own luggage?

  Yes, you should be prepared to carry your own bags short distances (up to 20-30 minutes maximum) between accommodations and transport, and lift them on and off buses and trains. Luggage storage space on public transport can be limited. It is essential to pack light.

• Are there elevators in train stations or hotels?

  It is very rare to find elevators in European train stations, hotels, or other public places. You should be prepared to carry your luggage up and down several flights of stairs.

• Are meals included in the tour price?

  Generally, no meals are included in the trip price, giving you maximum flexibility to choose where and what to eat. Your CEO can suggest local options, and groups often eat together.

• Who will be leading the tour group?

  The trip is accompanied by one of our CEOs (Chief Experience Officer). They facilitate travel, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues, and introduce you to local friends.

• Will our CEO provide detailed historical guiding at sights?

  In Europe, local guides are licensed to work only in specific cities. Your CEO will provide orientation walks to show you the layout of towns and locations of services, but cannot legally share historical facts and figures in public places. They can help arrange local guided city tours if you wish.

• What kind of activities are included or optional on this tour?

  The tour includes orientation walks in Barcelona, Madrid, Granada, Seville, and Lisbon, and a tapas bar crawl in Granada. Optional activities include visiting Gaudí buildings, art museums, the Alhambra (must pre-book tickets at least 3 months in advance), flamenco shows, exploring the Algarve Coast, and various city sights like castles and monuments.

• Do I need to book optional activities in advance?

  During high season (May-October), it is highly recommended to book popular optional activities and museum tickets online several months in advance to guarantee admission, such as La Sagrada Família, Parc Güell, or the Alhambra.

• Are international flights included in the tour price?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour, except for some combo tours between two different countries (please check with your booking agent for details).

• Is travel insurance compulsory for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You must have coverage for medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation, with a minimum coverage of USD $200,000.

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

  The primary currency is Euros. Credit cards and debit cards are very useful for cash advances, but you must remember your PIN (many ATMs accept only 4-digit PINs). It's best to carry a combination of Euros and cards, and not rely solely on cards. Be aware that credit card purchases usually incur a fee.

• How much emergency money should I bring?

  It is recommended to have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund for unforeseen circumstances outside our control.

• Is tipping customary in Europe?

  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, €3-5 per day is recommended, and for your CEO, €30-€40 per person per week can be used as a guideline.

• Are there any health considerations or vaccinations required?

  Inoculations may be required for the countries visited. It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure. Carrying a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers/antibacterial wipes is recommended.

• What is the physical rating for this tour?

  The physical rating for this tour is 2, indicating that an average level of fitness and mobility is required. Travelers must be able to walk without aid, climb 3-4 flights of stairs, step on and off small boats, and carry their own luggage at a minimum. A medical form is required for travelers over 70 years.

• What are the safety recommendations for this trip?

  It is recommended to check your government's travel advice. Using a neck wallet or money belt for valuables is strongly advised, and valuable jewelry should be left at home. Many hotels have safety deposit boxes. While cities are generally safe during the day, it's recommended to stay in small groups and use taxis for night-time excursions. Water-based activities should only be participated in when accompanied by a guide.

• Can I do laundry during the trip?

  Laundry facilities are offered by some accommodations for a charge. There will be times when you may need to do your own laundry, so biodegradable soap is suggested. Your CEO can also show you where to get laundry done locally.

• Are there any specific dress codes to be aware of?

  While not directly stated for Spain/Portugal, as a general European guideline, shoulders should be covered when visiting churches and cathedrals. Your CEO can provide more specific advice on local customs.

• What is Planeterra?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to turning travel into impact by helping local communities earn an income from tourism. They develop and support community-owned businesses globally. The tour operator is Planeterra's largest corporate donor, ensuring 100% of your donation directly supports Planeterra projects.

• Is this trip suitable for LGBTQ+ travelers?

  The safety and well-being of all travelers, including those identifying as part of the LGBTQ+ community, is a priority. We encourage you to visit our LGBTQ+ page for useful resources to ensure you feel safe and comfortable throughout your trip.