10 Day Backroads of Puglia Premium Small Group Tour

• Discover the charm of Puglia with guided tours, medieval towns, and stunning coastal landscapes
• Small, intimate group experience – no more than 25 people
• 9 nights in 4 star accommodation
• Breakfast daily, 1 lunch and 5 dinners
• Fully escorted by English-speaking tour manager and local guides guides in Bari, Matera and Lecce
• Sightseeing including entry fees as per itinerary

Pre/post accommodation
You can enhance your holiday by arriving or departing before or after the tour. On this tour you can choose from the following options:

Pre Tour Accommodation

• $426.00 per room, per night for double and twin share
• $405.00 per room, per night for solo travellers

Post Tour Accommodation

• $426.00 per room, per night for double and twin share
• $405.00 per room, per night for solo travellers

Please select the number of extra nights required in the 'Additional Nights Accommodation' field when making your purchase. The additional cost for these arrangements will be added to your final payment invoice and are subject to availability.

Upgrades 
Not available  

Airport Transfers 
Some of our packages will include airport transfers in either one or both directions when arriving or departing from your destination. To know if transfers are included please view the ‘inclusions’ section of your selected package. If airport transfers are stated, transfers will be included as advised.

If transfers are not included, we also offer the option to book your airport transfers using our online portal. Access to this portal is available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed. Transfers are readily available and do not need to be booked until your final hotel list has been confirmed. Once you have made a transfer booking, please refer to your confirmation email for all transfer details including a local contact number for the transfer company.

If you book pre and/or post-tour accommodation on your arrangement, and the tour includes transfers, note that these will be forfeited. The transfers are only provided in line with the tour dates and pre and/or post-tour accommodation purchased through Inspiring Vacations when available.

Bedding Configuration
Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences, but we can not guarantee your request will be available at all properties.

Single travellers
When booking this tour, solo travellers will be presented with two/three options:

1 - Single Supplement
By paying an additional $1,050.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price, you guarantee the privacy of your room throughout the entire tour.

Please note when choosing Single Supplement for this tour, your room will generally consist of a double or semi-double bed. Occasionally there may be a hotel that will provide a single bedded room for single travellers. 

2- Shared Room with a known friend
If travelling together with a friend, you can opt to share your room with them and avoid paying a single supplement. 

You and your friend can create a unique booking each. Creating a unique booking, gives each of you the flexibility of making different travel arrangements (such as adding extra accommodation, flights, etc), making separate payments and having individual access to our Traveller Hub

During the purchase path, you will need to provide your friend’s booking ID (if known) or at a minimum, your friend’s full name.

Triple Share
Not available

• Bari - Guided City Tour
• Bari - Pontifical Basilica of Saint Nicholas
• Castel Del Monte - UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Alberobello - UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Alberobello - Guided City Tour
• Lorcotondo - Certified ‘Borghi’ Village
• Matera -  UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Matera - Guided City Tour
• Otranto - Certified ‘Borghi’ Village
• Lecce - Guided City Tour

Payment Information
Secure your trip with a $99.00 deposit per person.

Once we receive your deposit, we will send you an invoice with your remaining balance and payment options.

Instalment Schedule:

1. At the time of booking pay a $99.00 deposit per person.
2. Pay a 1st installment of $2,036.00 per person within 7 days.
3. Pay a 2nd installment of $2,036.00 per person within 90 days.
4. You will then be invoiced for final payment 120 days prior to departure.

Cooling Off Period 
A refund will be available within the 7-day cooling-off period unless otherwise restricted by the purchased product. 

Where 'last minute' bookings are available within 71 days of departure, the cooling-off period does not apply and bookings are immediately non-refundable.

Terms and conditions 
Please review our terms and conditions here: https://www.inspiringvacations.com/au/page/terms-and-conditions

Trip Suitability

• This tour is designed for travelers seeking an immersive Italian experience that blends history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. Expect a mix of guided sightseeing and free time to explore at your own pace. The itinerary includes visits to iconic landmarks, scenic coastal towns, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, offering a well-rounded journey through Italy’s diverse regions.
• To fully enjoy this trip, a moderate level of fitness is recommended. Some tours involve walking on uneven terrain, cobblestone streets, and occasional stairs, particularly in historic towns such as Matera, Alberobello, and Rome. Comfortable walking shoes are essential. Additionally, early morning departures ensure you make the most of each destination, so a willingness to embrace a structured schedule is important.
• The tour includes comfortable coach travel between cities, with some longer drives providing opportunities to admire the stunning Italian countryside.

Visas & Entry Requirements
Many countries require a visa and obtaining the correct visa for your tour and any countries you may transit through is your responsibility. We recommend you check your visa requirements as soon as you have booked your tour. This will ensure you have time to prepare your documents and for your visa application to be processed. You can check the visa entry requirements for your nationality via our page here: 

https://inspiringvacations-8357211.hs-sites.com/visa-information 

You’ll need a valid passport to travel internationally and most countries require your passport to have a minimum of 6 months validity, so remember to check the expiry date.

We need your passport information to get everything ready for your tour so the information on your booking must match your passport exactly. Please take care to provide the correct details. We recommend carrying a copy of the photo page of your passport while travelling and leaving a copy at home with family or friends.

Travel Insurance 
Travel insurance is strongly recommended on all our tours. We require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. It is also important to consider forced pre-tour cancellations and how your chosen insurance policy may cover such circumstances, so please keep this in mind when choosing your provider. 

We strongly recommend all travellers have a policy that also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage or personal effects. For international tours, you will be asked by your tour leader for your travel insurance details if they were not already added to your Traveller Hub account pre-departure.

If you have credit card insurance your Inspiring Vacations tour leader or local guide may require details of the participating insurer/underwriter, the level of coverage, policy number, and emergency contact number rather than the bank's name and your credit card details. Please contact your bank for these details before arriving in-country.

Before you depart, you will be asked to submit your Travel Insurance details through the booking holder's Traveller Hub account through the Inspiring Vacations website. This is to ensure that we have this information readily available should we ever need it. 

Health & Wellness
All travellers need to be in good physical health to participate fully on this tour. Our group tours are designed to immerse you in incredible sights and activities, often involving walking tours and self-exploration. To ensure you can fully embrace every moment, we recommend a moderate level of fitness for all of our tours. 

When selecting your tour please make sure you have read through the itinerary carefully and assess your ability to manage and enjoy our style of travel. Please note that in the assessment of our Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader or local representative a traveller is unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group, we reserve the right to exclude them from all or part of a tour without refund.

You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information or for any necessary vaccinations before departure. We recommend that you carry a first aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements in their original packaging as they may not easily be obtained while travelling. If you are carrying medication, ensure you check your government's foreign travel advice for any local restrictions or requirements. For the safety and wellbeing of yourself and others, if you are unwell before travelling, please stay at home and contact us to make alternative arrangements and we would be more than happy to assist you.

Important Information for Customers with Mobility Limitations
We want to ensure everyone has a fantastic and inclusive experience on our tours. If you require the use of a mobility aid, such as a cane, walker, or wheelchair, please disclose this information at the time of booking.

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for the entire group, our tours are designed with a specific itinerary in mind. This may involve moderate walking, uneven terrain, or stairs. While some itinerary adjustments may not be possible, we'll do our best to find alternative solutions within the planned activities whenever possible.

Open communication helps us ensure your tour is a perfect fit and it allows your local guide or tour leader to assist you where possible. 

Information for CPAP Users
If you use a CPAP machine, please let us know at the time of booking. Some portions of our itinerary, like overnight cruises or camping tours, may have limited access to power outlets. In such cases, we recommend travelling with portable battery packs. 

Certain activities, like overnight journeys on board smaller vessels, may not be suitable for CPAP use due to space limitations or noise concerns. We can discuss these potential limitations upfront and help you make informed decisions about your tour.

Please ensure that you check the voltage used throughout the countries you are travelling to and if it will be compatible with your machines. For example, Japan runs on 100 volts vs Australia at 220-240 volts, meaning a voltage converter might be required.

Documentation
Tour documentation is typically emailed to the lead passenger or your travel agent between 14-30 days before your scheduled departure. This will include your final hotel list. 

Child Policy
Children must be 5 years old or above and share a room with parents at all times. Children are charged the same price as adults.

Official Travel Advice 
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey, we recommend referring to the official travel advisory website of your home country for the latest updates on your chosen destination. These websites provide valuable information on:

• Safety and Security: Current risks and precautions for the country you'll be visiting.
• Visa Requirements: Ensure you have all the necessary documentation for entry.
• Entry and Exit: Up-to-date border regulations and health requirements.

Here are some helpful links to get you started:

• Australia: https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations
• New Zealand: https://www.safetravel.govt.nz/
• America: https://travel.state.gov/
• Canada: https://travel.gc.ca/travelling/advisories
• India: https://www.mea.gov.in/travel-advisories.htm

In the unlikely event of a situation that could potentially disrupt your tour, we want to assure you of the following:

• Local Expertise: We maintain regular communication with our trusted travel partners in your destination.
• Constant Monitoring: We continuously monitor official travel advisories from relevant government websites.
• Flexibility and Safety: Should it become necessary, we will make appropriate adjustments to your itinerary to prioritise your health and safety.

By staying informed and working together, we can ensure a fantastic travel experience for you. We will post our own travel updates to our website here.

All current taxes are included in your tour (VAT, city permits, road taxes, visitor taxes, fuel charges and any other applicable charges), with the exception of city taxes in Italy, which are to be paid directly to each hotel. The tax will vary from €3-€5 per person per day depending  on the hotel booked. Please note that this tax is dictated by the government entities, can only be paid locally and can change without any warning to Inspiring Vacations.

Starting Point
Your starting hotel may differ from the original itinerary.  Please refer to your final documentation which will be provided approximately 14-30 days before departure for your confirmed hotel list. If you need to book pre-tour accommodation independently, we suggest you do this only once you have received your final hotel list for your tour. If you would like to book something sooner, we recommend that you book using a flexible rate that can be cancelled through your chosen third-party provider without penalty. 

Travellers will arrive at various times throughout the day depending on flights booked. If arriving before standard check-in time, which is generally 3pm, you are welcome to leave your luggage at hotel reception and explore your surroundings until check-in becomes available as there are no scheduled activities on day 1 of the itinerary.  The hotel may grant early check-in, however this is strictly subject to availability and at the hotel’s discretion. 

Note: if you need to apply for a tourist visa before departure, we recommend using the details of the suggested hotel on the tour itinerary if you wish to fulfil this before the release of your final tour documentation. Please refer to our visa section for more information on whether or not a visa is required for your destination. 

Arrival Details
Airport transfers are not included as part of your package. However, we trust that your journey from the airport to the hotel will be comfortable and hassle-free.

To make your way to your hotel from the airport, there are various connections by express train or limousine bus. The airport information desks can provide helpful advice, too. 

Optional Airport Transfers - Transfer Portal
Depending on the package purchased, you may have the option to add airport transfers to your booking and you can do so through your Traveller Hub account. We partner with an online marketplace where travellers can compare and select the transfer of their choice. 

Inspiring Vacations acts as an agent on behalf of our transfer service partner and any service is delivered by the provider. Inspiring Vacations cannot be held liable for any loss resulting from the transfer service provided. It is the customer's responsibility to ensure any transfer booked meets the requirements of any other travel arrangements. Likewise, your tour leader or any of our on-ground representatives cannot be held responsible for the service of your transfer nor are they in a position to assist with amending your reservation. Any transfer booking is separate from any other booking with Inspiring Vacations, regardless of whether purchased with regards to the same travel journey.

When you make your transfer service booking, you will receive a confirmation email and this will include your meeting instructions, as well as direct contact details. Please ensure you print and bring this with you as you will need to ensure you can make direct contact with your transfer service provider. 

Welcome Meeting Instructions
You are welcome to arrive at any time on Day 1 of your tour and the day is at your leisure. Upon checking in at the hotel, you will receive a letter containing meeting instructions for the following morning. If you do not automatically receive these details, please ask for them. Generally, you must meet at the lobby the following morning (on the day that sightseeing commences) as early as 0815 am local time. Please ensure that you are on time. 

In Case of Emergency
Although we strive to deliver exceptional holiday experiences, unforeseen circumstances can occasionally arise during travel. If any issues arise during your tour, it's essential to promptly communicate them to your tour leader or local representative. This ensures they can take immediate action to address the problem and mitigate any negative impact on the remainder of your journey.

We understand that there may be instances where your tour leader or local representative is unable to resolve a situation to your satisfaction. In such cases, we encourage you to request that the tour leader or local representative escalate the matter to their direct manager for further assistance.

When your final tour documentation is released, this will include an emergency contact for our local travel partner while you are on tour. If this is not included in your documentation, you will receive this on arrival during your welcome meeting. 

Pace
This trip category is 2 out of 5
Relax and uncover: Enjoy ample free time alongside key sightseeing and activities. Moderate fitness is still recommended to fully experience the trip.

As a general requirement across all of our trips, you may be required to walk up and down stairs, get on and off transportation, handle your luggage, and participate in all scheduled sightseeing that may be conducted on uneven ground and terrain. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability and where required, supporting documentation may be requested to ensure that we are comfortable that you will enjoy your trip. 

Group Size 
Minimum: 2 people
Maximum: 25 people 

Escorted Style 
Fully Escorted by Local Guides
You will be accompanied by various multi-lingual local guides during the tour, who will be responsible for guiding you through the various cities and attractions that you will be visiting. In each new city that you visit, you will likely be introduced to a new local guide who is an expert in that region. Depending on the itinerary chosen and your group size, your local guide may provide commentary in multiple languages.

Tour Type 
Our expertly crafted Small Group Tours take you to iconic landmarks and hidden treasures, ensuring a rich blend of must-see sights. Unwind in premium accommodations after each day filled with sightseeing alongside your dedicated tour leader, leaving you free to explore at your own pace during designated free time. Benefit from smaller group sizes, creating a truly unforgettable travel experience.

Exclusions

• International airfares
• Arrival airport transfer  
• Departure airport transfer
• Hotel City Taxes
• Visas
• Travel insurance (compulsory)
• Tipping
• Optional activities
• Personal expenses
• Anything not mentioned in the itinerary

Travelling in a group 
Travelling in a group means you will experience both the pleasures and perhaps at times, some of the frustrations of travelling with people you don’t know. The good news is you all have at least one thing in common: a love of travel and exploration. Your fellow travellers will probably come from different parts of the world, and fall into different age groups. We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group—patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the overall benefit of the group. 

We kindly ask that when you are requested to be at a place at a certain time that you respect this request from your tour leader or local guide. Due to privacy reasons, we are unable to provide you with contact details and any personal information about your fellow travellers booked on your trip before departure.

Community Guidelines
Inspiring Vacations does not tolerate any kind of violence, harassment (whether physical, verbal or sexual), or disrespect toward fellow travellers, our teams (Inspiring Vacations Tour Leaders and local expert guides) or local communities.

Any behaviour that prevents your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader from continuing the itinerary as planned, breaks local laws or opposes any of these guidelines, may result in Inspiring Vacations removing you from the tour.

If something concerns you during your travels, please speak to your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader immediately. Alternatively, when you are on-tour and require immediate support you can contact our Customer Support team and select the “On-Tour” option when listening to the options. 

Connect with fellow travellers on Facebook
During your booking journey, you might have received an email inviting you to join a special Facebook group. This vibrant online community is exclusively for Inspiring Vacations travellers wanting to connect, share, and inspire one another. Joining this group unlocks a wealth of information and connections. Swap travel tips, chat with other members who have been where you’re going, and even meet others interested in travelling together for your next adventure.

We also regularly host insightful webinars featuring travel experts who share their tips and tricks for navigating your destination and maximising your itinerary. Don't miss out on this amazing opportunity to connect, learn, and get even more excited about your upcoming tour!

Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader vs. Local Guide 
While both tour leaders and local guides enrich your travel experience, their roles differ. Tour leaders, who often accompany you for the entire tour, handle logistics, ensure smooth sailing of the itinerary, and act as your point of contact for any concerns. They might provide general information about destinations, but in-depth historical or cultural knowledge often comes from local guides. Local guides, frequently native to the area, lead tours at specific sites or attractions, offering a deeper understanding of the local history, art, or way of life.

Coach Transportation
The size of your coach will comfortably accommodate your group. There's usually room for some extra seats, ensuring a relaxing journey. Your luggage will be safely stored either underneath the coach or in a dedicated trailer.

While the exact coach style may vary depending on the departure, all our coaches offer comfortable seating. Keep in mind that Wi-Fi and charging outlets might not always be available. To stay connected and avoid dead batteries,  we recommend fully charging your devices beforehand or bringing a portable charger.

For longer journeys, we'll make sure to include ample restroom breaks along the way, so you can freshen up and recharge at your convenience, as facilities are not on-board the coach. 

Itinerary Changes 
Sometimes, unexpected things can happen, like unpredictable weather or higher-than-usual crowds at attractions. In these situations, your tour leader might need to adjust the itinerary slightly to improve your overall experience. 

This flexibility ensures you get the most out of your tour! Your tour leader will always keep you informed of any changes and explain the reasoning behind them. Remember, when travelling with a group, sometimes going with the flow can lead to even more amazing experiences.

Staying Connected
If you want to stay connected and access reliable internet while on tour, there are a few options available. It is possible to purchase a virtual sim and we recommend contacting your mobile phone provider for assistance. You can add a roaming data plan to your existing phone contract is another option, albeit an expensive one. You will need to arrange this before departure. 

We also recommend downloading WhatsApp and using this to communicate with other group members while on tour, and of course, after the tour if you’d like to stay in touch. Our tour leaders may also use this as a means of communicating essential tour information with you, as well as if you choose to add-on transfers to your booking, as your driver may use this to confirm arrangements with you.

Getting Around
This tour explores the stunning region of Puglia, from the historical charm of Bari to the fairytale trulli of Alberobello and the dramatic coastline of Polignano a Mare. Travel will primarily be by private coach, with scenic journeys through rolling hills, olive groves, and picturesque coastal roads. Along the way, comfort stops will be made to stretch your legs, use facilities, and enjoy refreshments.

Some days involve early starts to make the most of sightseeing opportunities, especially in locations like Matera, Lecce, and Ostuni. Be prepared for walking on uneven terrain and cobblestone streets, particularly in the historic centers of Bari Vecchia, Matera's sassi, and the narrow alleys of Monopoli. Comfortable footwear is highly recommended.

Guided walking tours are included in key destinations, providing insightful commentary while you explore local landmarks and hidden gems. Free time is also allocated for you to wander at your own pace, discover charming shops, or relax with an aperitivo.

Travel Times 
While exploring the stunning region of Puglia and its neighboring gems, some days will include longer drives as we journey through scenic countryside, historic towns, and breathtaking coastal roads. Though these travel days may sometimes feel lengthy, our comfortable, air-conditioned coach, beautiful landscapes, and scheduled breaks for refreshments and stretching your legs will ensure a pleasant experience. Each journey is designed to be as smooth and enjoyable as possible, so you arrive refreshed and ready to explore the next incredible destination.

Hotel Ratings
Star ratings can differ between countries, reflecting diverse standards and amenities. To give you the most accurate picture possible, we don't just rely on a single source for hotel ratings. We go beyond by researching various trusted travel websites like Tripadvisor and Booking.com. This allows us to analyse a wider range of genuine customer reviews and experiences, giving you a well-rounded understanding of the hotel's typical star rating.

This means you can book with confidence, knowing the hotel has a strong track record of satisfied guests. 

Accommodation Details
Throughout your journey in Puglia, we have carefully selected a range of 4-star hotels that reflect the charm and character of the region. Our accommodations are chosen to provide comfort and a welcoming atmosphere, with locations that offer easy access to key sights while also allowing you to enjoy a peaceful retreat after a day of exploration.

It's important to note that European hotel star ratings may differ from Western standards, particularly in historical towns where properties are designed to preserve local architecture and heritage. While rooms may be smaller and amenities more modest, this is part of the authentic experience of staying in the heart of Puglia's picturesque towns.

Overall, our selections aim to balance comfort, local charm, and convenience, ensuring you have a restful stay throughout your adventure.

Packing Essentials
What you need to pack will depend on the time of year and your personal travel style. We recommend packing light and ensuring you can comfortably carry and lift your luggage, including up and down stairs when necessary.

A lockable suitcase with wheels (maximum 20kg) is ideal for this trip, along with a day pack to carry essentials such as water, a camera, a jacket, and any personal items while exploring.

Clothing & Footwear:

• A mix of lightweight and warm layers for varying temperatures
• Modest clothing for religious sites (shoulders/knees covered)
• Comfortable walking shoes for cobblestone streets
• Smart-casual attire for dinners
• Swimsuit (if using pools)

Weather & Sun Protection

• Personal medications & small first-aid kit (pain relievers, motion sickness tablets, band-aids)
• Insect repellent (especially in warmer months)
• Reusable water bottle (at least 1L capacity)

Health & Essentials

• Sun hat, sunglasses & sunscreen
• Light waterproof jacket or compact umbrella

Electronics & Accessories

• Travel adaptor (Italy uses Type C, F, & L plugs, 230V)
• Phone, charger & power bank
• Camera for capturing memories
• Earphones for travel days

Electronics & Accessories

• A good book, journal, or music for downtime
• Earplugs for noisy environments
• Travel laundry detergent for hand washing small items

Packing efficiently will make your journey through Italy smoother and more enjoyable!

Climate 
Italy offers a variety of climates throughout the year, with distinct regional variations. Spring brings mild and pleasant weather across Italy. Temperatures range from 10°C (50°F) in northern regions like Venice to 20°C (68°F) in the south, such as Sorrento and Bari. It’s a great time to explore, as the weather is comfortable, and you can avoid the summer crowds. Light layers and a jacket are recommended, with occasional rain showers.

Summer in Italy can be hot and dry, especially in southern regions like Sorrento, Bari, and the Amalfi Coast, where temperatures can reach mid-30s°C (mid-90s°F). Central cities like Rome will also see high temperatures, though coastal areas can benefit from refreshing breezes. Pack light, breathable clothing and sun protection.

Autumn offers moderate and comfortable temperatures across Italy, with southern regions still enjoying warmth around 20-25°C (68-77°F), while the northern areas start cooling down, especially in places like Venice and the Dolomites. This is also harvest season, so expect beautiful landscapes and vibrant autumn colors. A light jacket or sweater for the evenings is recommended.

Winter is milder in the south (Rome, Sorrento) with average temperatures around 10-15°C (50-59°F) but can be colder and wetter in northern regions and higher elevations like the Alps or Dolomites, where temperatures can drop below freezing, and snow is common. Coastal areas remain milder but may experience rain. Warm layers, a good jacket, and waterproof clothing are advised if traveling to northern or mountainous regions.

Currency and ATM
In Italy, the currency used is the Euro (€). ATMs are widely available in cities, towns, and tourist areas, and major international credit and debit cards are generally accepted. However, it's always a good idea to carry some cash, especially for small purchases or in more rural areas where card payments may not be as commonly accepted. Keep in mind that some places, especially in smaller towns, may prefer cash, and it’s advisable to have a mix of larger and smaller denominations for convenience.

For any additional services or tours, you may also be able to use cards for payments, but it’s a good idea to notify your bank of your travel dates to avoid any issues with card usage while in Italy.

Food and Allergies 
Travelling through Italy offers a delightful array of culinary experiences that highlight the country's rich history and diverse regions. In Rome, indulge in traditional pasta dishes such as carbonara and cacio e pepe, while in Sorrento, enjoy fresh seafood and locally grown lemons in dishes like lemon risotto and limoncello. Puglia, known for its olive oil and unique cuisine, offers dishes like orecchiette pasta and the famous focaccia. Throughout your journey, you will also enjoy regional specialties like pizza in Naples and fine wines in Tuscany.

While touring with Inspiring Vacations, you'll not only see iconic landmarks but also get a taste of local flavors. While many meals are included, you’ll have opportunities to explore the vibrant culinary scene on your own, whether it’s dining in local trattorias or trying street food. If you have specific dietary needs or allergies, please inform our Customer Support Team before departure. Your Inspiring Vacations tour leader or local guide will also be happy to recommend restaurants and share tips on the best food to try during your travels. However, it is important to ensure you make choices suitable for your dietary requirements, as it remains your responsibility to avoid any ingredients that may cause concern.

Local Customs
In Italy, greetings are generally warm and informal, with handshakes common for both business and casual encounters. In more familiar settings, a kiss on both cheeks is customary, starting with the left. Meal times in Italy differ from other countries, with lunch typically served from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM, and dinner often starting around 8:00 PM or later, especially in the southern regions. Italians take their food seriously, so take the time to enjoy meals, whether it’s a leisurely lunch or an evening out at a trattoria.

When visiting cultural sites, churches, or historical monuments, dress modestly and respectfully, especially in religious sites like the Vatican or in smaller, more conservative towns. Be mindful of the local customs and traditions, as these places hold great importance to Italians. In some areas, particularly rural regions, you may encounter a relaxed pace of life with businesses closing for a few hours in the afternoon, similar to the traditional siesta.

Throughout your journey, respecting Italy's cultural norms will not only enhance your experience but also foster positive interactions with locals, creating a deeper appreciation for the country's rich history and vibrant lifestyle

Tipping Your Leader
Tipping the tour leader and bus driver is a customary practice on many tours, as it is a way to show appreciation for their hard work and dedication throughout your trip. While tipping is not mandatory, it is greatly appreciated and can help recognize their efforts in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey.

As a guideline, we suggest tipping the tour leader around €5-€10 per person, per day, depending on the length and quality of the service provided. For the bus driver, a tip of around €2-€4 per person, per day is recommended. These amounts can be adjusted based on your satisfaction with their services.

Tips are typically collected at the end of the tour as a group collection, which is then distributed to the guide and driver. However, if you prefer, you may also choose to tip individually.

Peak Travel Time
Peak travel times in Italy vary depending on the region and time of year. The high season typically runs from June to August, when warm weather attracts visitors to cities like Rome, Florence, and the Amalfi Coast. This period sees more tourists, especially in popular destinations. Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) are also great times to visit, offering milder weather and fewer crowds, making it ideal for exploring Italy’s historic sites and charming towns.

Winter (December to February) is a quieter time, especially in the southern regions, though cities like Rome and Florence maintain their allure with holiday events and decorations. If traveling during these months, be mindful of any seasonal closures or reduced hours for attractions, particularly in smaller towns or rural areas.

Planning ahead for your travel dates will allow you to navigate these seasonal changes and make the most of your Italian adventure.

Safety and Security
Before traveling, it’s important to check your government’s travel advice for up-to-date safety information and ensure your travel insurance covers all destinations and activities on your trip.

Your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader will accompany you on all included activities from the itinerary, providing support and guidance. You will also have free time to explore on your own. While your tour leader or local guide can offer recommendations for optional activities, please use your discretion when selecting activities outside of the planned itinerary. Keep in mind that Inspiring Vacations cannot guarantee the safety or quality of non-scheduled activities.

Italy is generally very safe for travelers, though it’s always wise to take common-sense precautions. Be aware of pickpocketing, particularly in crowded tourist areas, on public transportation, and in busy cities like Rome and
Florence. Avoid displaying valuables, stay vigilant in crowded places, and be cautious of scams. When in urban areas, use reputable transportation services, and avoid walking alone in poorly lit or unfamiliar areas at night.

Apps to Download
To make the most of your journey through Puglia and its surrounding gems, consider downloading the following apps:

• Google Maps: Essential for navigation and exploring local neighborhoods. Be sure to download offline maps of Puglia so you can access directions even without Wi-Fi.
• Google Translate: Particularly useful for reading menus, signs, and product labels in Italian. The lens function allows you to translate text instantly by pointing your camera at it.
• Trenitalia and Italo: If you plan to travel by train before or after the tour, these apps will help you check schedules, book tickets, and track your journeys with ease.
• Moovit or Citymapper: Great for navigating public transportation in larger cities like Bari and Lecce, providing real-time updates and route planning.
• MyTaxi (Free Now): A reliable option for booking taxis in urban areas when public transport isn't available or convenient.
• WhatsApp: Ideal for staying connected with fellow travelers and your tour guide throughout the journey.

These apps will help you navigate, communicate, and explore with confidence, ensuring a smoother experience during your time in Puglia.

Post-Tour Feedback
Once your booking is confirmed, you will receive a link to a post-purchase survey, which is your opportunity to share your feedback with us on your booking experience and interactions with our Sales and Customer Success teams. This feedback is invaluable to ensure that we are servicing our customers to the best of our ability. 

Furthermore, towards the end of your travels and while you are in your destination, you will receive an email from us with a link to an in-depth trip survey. Your tour leader or local guide may also provide you with a QR code that you can scan using your device to access our survey straight away. It is very important to us that we hear from our customers to ensure that we continue to meet and exceed customers' expectations, so this will be your opportunity to let us know how your trip has been, what has worked well and potentially what could be improved. 

Finishing Point 
Your finishing hotel may differ from the original itinerary. Please refer to your final documentation which will be provided approximately 14-30 days before departure for your confirmed hotel list. If you need to book additional post-tour accommodation, please do so once you have the final hotel list. We recommend booking a flexible rate that can be changed or cancelled without penalty should there be any unforeseen changes to your booking. 

Travellers will depart at various times throughout the day depending on flights booked. Check-out time is generally from 10am-12pm. You are welcome to leave your luggage at the hotel reception and spend your final moments of free time exploring the area or please speak with hotel staff if you would like to extend your check-out time. This service is subject to availability and will likely come at an additional cost payable directly. 

Departure Details 
Airport transfers are not included as part of your package. However, we trust that your journey from the hotel to the airport will be comfortable and hassle-free.

As an added service, we do offer airport transfers at an additional cost which can be booked via your Traveller Hub.  We recommend you wait until you receive your final documentation to book transfers as your start and end hotels will only be confirmed at this point. Please note that if you are choosing to book an independent airport transfer service, your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader cannot be held responsible for any unforeseen circumstances that may arise, nor can they resolve any concerns that you may have with your transfer service.

To make your way to the airport, there are various connections by train or limousine bus. Most destinations offer ride-share services, such as Uber or Didi. If you're having any problems, you can speak to hotel reception before your departure.

This is a land only package.

This package does not include international airfares. If you would like to add airfares to your booking our flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub. The flight portal will allow you to search for all available airfares to your destination. The function works like most general flight search engines allowing you to select your preferred airline, book different cabin classes (eg. Business class) and view flight durations and transit times to your destination. 

The flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub once the following criteria has been met:

• Your booking is confirmed
• Your departure date is within 11 months
• You  have completed your passenger detail form

Visit our Flight Hub for more information on terms and conditions, amending your flights and information on luggage allowances.