12 Day Premium Slovenia, Bosnia & Croatia's Istrian Peninsula

• 11 nights in 4-star accommodation
• Breakfast daily, 1 lunch and 3 dinners
• Arrival airport transfer in Venice/Mestre
• Departure airport transfer in Sarajevo
• Tourist tax
• Dedicated tour leaders
• Dedicated transportation throughout
• Guided walking tours of Venice, Bled, Klagenfurt, Opatija, Plitvice Lakes, Split, Mostar and Sarajevo
• Sightseeing and entrance fees as per the itinerary

• Venice – Guided walking tour
• Bled – Lake Bled boat ride
• Bled – Bled Castle visit
• Bohinj – Lake Bohinj visit
• Klagenfurt – Panoramic tour and Lake Wörth
• Postojna – Postojna Caves visit
• Predjama – Predjama Castle visit
• Istria – Truffle and olive oil tasting
• Pula – Roman amphitheatre visit
• Opatija – Guided walking tour
• Fužine – Vrelo Cave visit
• Plitvice Lakes – UNESCO National Park guided tour
• Split – Diocletian's Palace and walking tour
• Međugorje – Pilgrimage site visit
• Mostar – Old Bridge and guided walking tour
• Sarajevo – Baščaršija, Latin Bridge and guided walking tour

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 options:

1 - Single Supplement
By paying an additional $2,850.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price, you guarantee the privacy of your own room throughout the entire trip.

2- Shared Room with a known friend
If travelling together with a friend, you can opt to share your room with him/her 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 adding extra accommodation, flights, etc), make separate payments and have individual access to our Traveller’s 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

Payment Terms
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 $2,161.00 per person within 7 days.
3. Pay a 2nd installment of $3,890.00 per person within 60 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

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 included as part of your package, so long as you are arriving as per the purchased itinerary. If you have purchased an extension, either pre or post-tour, the applicable transfer service will be forfeited from your package and you will need to make your arrangements to the starting hotel.

Where the service remains included, on arrival look out for a representative holding an “Inspiring Vacations” sign after you have collected your baggage and exited customs. If you cannot find them, try to avoid wandering around and instead stay in one place and call the emergency contact number on your documentation. 

Where the service has been forfeited due to an early arrival and extended stay, 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 your hotel from the airport, there are various connections by train or limousine bus. The airport information desks can provide helpful advice, too. Most destinations offer ride-share services, such as Uber or Didi. 

If you're having any problems finding the hotel, please ring the hotel directly or you can phone our customer support team for on-tour assistance. 

Welcome Meeting Instructions

You are welcome to arrive at any time on Day 1 of your tour and the day is at your leisure.

On the morning of Day 2, you will meet your tour leader and fellow travellers at the hotel reception at approximately 9.00-9.30 am local time before departing for Venice. You will receive a welcome letter upon check in that will confirm details. 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 is essential to promptly communicate them to your tour leader or local representative so they can take immediate action to address the problem and minimise any negative impact on the remainder of your journey.

If your tour leader or local representative is unable to resolve a situation to your satisfaction, please request that the matter be escalated 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 information on arrival during your welcome meeting.

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 hotel reception and spend your final moments exploring the area, or speak with hotel staff if you would like to extend your check-out time. This service is subject to availability and may incur an additional cost payable directly.

Departure Details

Airport transfers are included as part of your package, so long as you are departing as per the purchased itinerary. If you have purchased an extension, either pre or post-tour, the applicable transfer service will be forfeited from your package and you will need to make your arrangements to the starting hotel.

Where the service remains included, your tour leader will confirm the pick-up time from your hotel to the airport and this will depend on the flight that you have booked. Generally, you will be required to be at the airport approximately 3 hours before your scheduled departure.

Where the service has been forfeited due to an extended stay, 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. The airport information desks can provide helpful advice, too. Most destinations offer ride-share services, such as Uber or Bolt.

If you're having any problems, you can speak to hotel reception before your departure.

Tour Suitability

• This tour combines two distinct travel experiences: a comprehensive overland journey through Italy, Slovenia, Austria and Croatia, followed by a land extension through Bosnia and Herzegovina. The pace is balanced, with full sightseeing days, early starts and a moderate level of daily walking. A reasonable level of fitness and stamina will help you get the most from the experience.
• Several sightseeing highlights involve walking on cobblestones, stone steps, uneven terrain and inclines. Plitvice Lakes National Park involves extended walking on boardwalks and around lakes; Postojna Caves involves walking on uneven, cool, damp surfaces; and the old quarters of Mostar and Sarajevo include cobbled streets and stepped lanes.
• This tour involves multiple border crossings (Italy–Slovenia, Slovenia–Austria, Slovenia–Croatia, Croatia–Bosnia and Herzegovina) and there is the possibility of longer wait times at border crossings.
• Many of our tours are the combination of several smaller journeys. You may join a group where some travellers have already been together prior to your arrival, or some of your fellow passengers may be travelling onwards when your tour comes to a finish. If you'd like more information on alternative tour options or extensions, please feel free to contact us.

Country Specific Notes

Bosnia and Herzegovina: Some citizens require a visa to enter Bosnia and Herzegovina. Please check entry requirements for your nationality at http://www.mvp.gov.ba prior to booking.

Visas & Entry Requirements

Many countries require a visa and obtaining the correct visa for your trip and any countries you may transit through is your responsibility. We recommend you check your visa requirements as soon as you have booked your trip. 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 trip 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 traveling and leaving a copy at home with family or friends.

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.

Pace

This tour category is 3 out of 5.

Balanced exploration with walking tours:

Our most popular style, this tour offers a good mix of planned activities and free time. Expect moderate daily walking tours, so pack comfortable shoes.

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 own 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 tour.

Activity and Mobility

This tour is categorised as: 3 out of 5 – Balanced

This tour balances city walking tours, heritage sites and natural attractions across five countries. Most days involve a mix of guided walking, panoramic touring by coach and time at leisure. The activity level is best suited to travellers with a moderate level of fitness who are comfortable with stop–start walking, cobblestones, stairs and uneven terrain.

Activity snapshot

• Activity: Balanced, with a mix of city walking tours, national park walking, cave visits and panoramic coach touring.
• Typical walking distances: Around 2–6 km on sightseeing days, with longer walks possible at Plitvice Lakes National Park and Postojna Caves.

Mobility requirements

• Mobility: Best suited to travellers comfortable with moderate, stop–start walking, steps and uneven ground. Several sites involve steep climbs, stairs or extended walking on boardwalks.

Walking Surfaces: A mix of flat pavements, cobblestoned old towns, stone steps, wooden boardwalks, dirt and damp cave surfaces. 

Terrain & environment

Cities and towns: Cobblestoned old quarters in Venice, Rovinj, Split, Mostar and Sarajevo, with some narrow lanes, stairs and uneven historic surfaces.

Mountain and lake areas: Short, stepped walks around Lake Bled, Bled Castle and Lake Bohinj in Slovenia, and around Lake Wörth in Austria.

Major heritage and natural sites:

• Postojna Caves and Predjama Castle involve walking on cool, damp, uneven cave surfaces and stairs.
• Plitvice Lakes National Park involves extended walking on wooden boardwalks and dirt paths around lakes and waterfalls; some sections are stepped and have no handrails.
• Diocletian's Palace in Split has narrow cobbled streets and uneven Roman-era surfaces.

Mostar's Old Bridge area and Sarajevo's Baščaršija bazaar are explored on foot over cobblestones and gentle inclines.

Mobility & accessibility

Best suited to: Travellers comfortable with moderate, stop–start walking, steps and some uneven ground at key sites.

Opt-out options: Some walks can be skipped, with passengers remaining in the coach or relaxing at a café where possible. Plitvice Lakes, Postojna Caves and walking tours in Mostar and Sarajevo form a core part of the tour and cannot easily be skipped.

Wheelchairs: Vehicles and most hotels can accommodate wheelchairs, but several sightseeing locations (Postojna Caves, Predjama Castle, Plitvice Lakes boardwalks, Diocletian's Palace, the Old Bridge in Mostar, Baščaršija in Sarajevo) are not wheelchair accessible, and there are no true step-free alternative routes at these sites. Please reach out to Inspiring Vacations directly to discuss wheelchair use.

As a general requirement across all of our tours, you may be required to walk up and down stairs, get on and off transportation, handle your own 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 tour.

Group Size|
Minimum: 20 people, Maximum: 25 people

Escorted Style

Fully Escorted

This tour is fully escorted by multiple dedicated tour leaders who will accompany you throughout the tour. You will be met by a new tour leader in Split for the Bosnia and Herzegovina portion. Your tour leaders will coordinate with each other to ensure a seamless transition.

Tour Type

Our Classic Tours offer unbeatable value for budget-minded travellers who still want to experience the most out of their trip. Imagine a traditional coach tour packed with inclusions like iconic sightseeing, a dedicated tour leader, comfortable accommodations, coach transportation, and even some meals. The group size of our Classic Tours range does vary so make sure you refer to the group size information in the Trip Notes.

Exclusions

• International airfares
• Visas
• Travel insurance
• Optional activities
• Tipping
• Personal expenses
• Anything not mentioned in the itinerary

Getting Around

While touring Italy, Slovenia, Austria, Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina, you will be travelling primarily by private coach. This tour covers a significant amount of ground and crosses multiple borders, so some coach journeys will be longer than others. Where applicable, there will be comfort stops along the way where you can freshen up, stretch your legs, use the bathroom, and often purchase refreshments. Generally, lunch stops will be taken at rest stops or local restaurants that can easily accommodate our group.

On Lake Bled in Slovenia, you will travel by traditional pletna boat to Bled Island. The boat ride takes approximately 20 minutes each way and is weather permitting.

Border crossings between Slovenia, Austria, Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina may involve waiting times depending on traffic and seasonal demand. Please have your passport accessible.

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 this journey, you'll stay in a selection of 4-star hotels across Italy, Slovenia, Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina. Each property has been carefully chosen for comfort, quality and location, typically positioned to offer easy access to key sights while ensuring a restful stay.

Please note that European hotel star ratings can differ from other international standards.

Packing Essentials

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, we recommend keeping your main luggage to approximately 20kg, as you'll be responsible for handling your own bags at times, particularly when navigating cobblestoned streets and stepped lanes in older town centres.

Clothing

• Lightweight, breathable clothing for warmer months (linen or cotton is ideal)
• Layers and a warm jacket or jumper for cooler evenings and higher altitudes (Lake Bled, Plitvice Lakes, Sarajevo)
• Modest options for visiting churches, mosques and religious sites (shoulders and knees covered)
• Comfortable, sturdy walking shoes with grip for cobblestones, boardwalks and cave floors
• A dressier outfit for evening dining

Weather Protection

• Light rain jacket or small umbrella
• Sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat
• High-SPF sunscreen

Optional but Useful

• Foldable tote or shopping bag
• Reusable water bottle
• Travel adaptor (Type C/F)
• Motion sickness tablets if you're prone to motion sickness on winding mountain roads
• A small daypack or crossbody bag for daily excursions
  

Climate

This tour crosses several distinct climate zones:

• Italy (Mestre/Venice): Mediterranean climate. Summers (June–August) are hot and humid with temperatures often above 30°C; winters are cool and damp.
• Slovenia (Bled and Bohinj): Alpine and continental climate. Summers are pleasant and warm; spring and autumn are mild but can be rainy; winters are cold with snow at higher altitudes.
• Austria (Carinthia/Klagenfurt): Continental climate similar to Slovenia, with warm summers and cold, snowy winters.
• Croatia (Istria, Plitvice, Split): Coastal Mediterranean on the Adriatic with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Inland Plitvice is cooler and more continental, with snow possible in winter.
• Bosnia and Herzegovina (Međugorje, Mostar, Sarajevo): Mostar and Međugorje have a hot, Mediterranean-influenced summer climate. Sarajevo, at higher altitude, is markedly cooler year-round with cold, snowy winters.

We recommend packing layers, regardless of season, to accommodate the variation between coastal, inland and mountain regions.

Currency and ATMs

Italy, Slovenia, Austria and Croatia all use the Euro (EUR). Bosnia and Herzegovina uses the Convertible Mark (BAM), which is pegged to the Euro at a fixed rate of approximately 1 EUR = 1.95 BAM. Euros are widely accepted at tourist sites and many shops in Bosnia, but smaller establishments may prefer BAM.

ATMs are widely available in cities, towns and tourist areas across all countries on the tour, and most accept major international debit and credit cards. Card payments are commonly accepted in hotels, restaurants and shops, but it's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases, market stalls and tipping.

Before travelling, notify your bank of your trip to avoid any potential issues with card transactions. It's also helpful to carry smaller denominations for easier payments.

Food and Allergies

This tour offers a delicious culinary journey across the Adriatic. Northern Italian cuisine in the Venice region features fresh seafood, risotto and seasonal vegetables. Slovenian food blends Alpine, Mediterranean and Eastern European influences with hearty stews, dumplings and freshwater trout from Lake Bled. Croatian cuisine reflects strong Mediterranean and Central European influences, with grilled fish, truffle dishes from Istria, hearty Dalmatian stews and excellent local olive oils and wines.

In Bosnia and Herzegovina, the cuisine reflects centuries of Ottoman, Mediterranean and Central European influences. Look for ćevapi (grilled minced-meat sausages served with somun flatbread), burek (filo pastry stuffed with meat, cheese or spinach), Bosnian coffee served in traditional brass džezva pots, and rakija (fruit brandy).

While travelling with Inspiring Vacations you'll enjoy iconic sightseeing, as well as experience the vast array of culinary offerings on this tour. While many meals will be eaten together with your group, not all meals are included in your tour which gives you maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. If you have dietary requirements and/or food allergies, please let our Customer Support Team know before departure. Your Inspiring Vacations Tour Guide or Local Guide will also be able to give suggestions on which restaurants to try during your tour. For those with a particular food allergy, your Inspiring Vacations Tour Guide will endeavour to advise the main ingredients in the dishes consumed. It is, however, still your responsibility to ensure that you do not ingest any problematic ingredients.

Local Customs

Italy, Slovenia, Austria and Croatia share generally relaxed European customs. Greetings are typically a handshake, and locals appreciate basic courtesies in their own language ('dobar dan' in Croatian, 'dober dan' in Slovenian, 'grüß Gott' in Austria, 'buongiorno' in Italian). Meal times follow a European schedule, with lunch from 12pm and dinner generally from 7pm.

Bosnia and Herzegovina has a rich and diverse cultural heritage shaped by Muslim, Catholic and Orthodox communities. Respectful behaviour at religious sites is particularly important. When visiting mosques (such as the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque in Sarajevo), remove your shoes before entering, dress modestly with shoulders and knees covered, and women should cover their hair. Photography may be restricted inside religious buildings. Bosnia's recent history is sensitive; if discussing the 1990s conflict, be respectful and let locals lead the conversation.

In Međugorje, a major Catholic pilgrimage site, dress modestly and observe quiet, respectful behaviour around prayer areas, St James Church and Apparition Hill.

Dress Code

Casual attire is generally appropriate across this tour, especially for daytime sightseeing. Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended for warmer months, while a smart-casual outfit is advisable for evenings, particularly when dining at upscale restaurants.

Modest dress is appreciated when visiting churches, monasteries and mosques. Covering shoulders and knees is recommended out of respect, and women may be asked to cover their hair when visiting mosques in Sarajevo.

Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring historic towns with cobblestone streets, uneven surfaces and stairs, and for the boardwalks at Plitvice Lakes and cave floors at Postojna. Bringing a light jacket or jumper for cooler evenings or air-conditioned venues will also enhance your comfort

Responsible Dining

Avoid consuming endangered species or items harvested unsustainably. Be respectful of local customs and food practices, and always tip fairly to support local workers. Responsible dining helps protect the environment and promotes the well-being of local communities.

Tipping

Tipping across Italy, Slovenia, Austria, Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina is generally appreciated but not mandatory. It's a way to acknowledge good service and is welcomed in restaurants, cafés and by guides and drivers.

• Restaurants & Cafés: A tip of around 5–10% of the bill is customary if service is not already included. In casual settings, rounding up the bill is common.
• Tour Leaders & Local Guides: For local guides, €5–€10 per person per day is a thoughtful gesture. For your tour leader, €5–€10 per person per day is appropriate.
• Drivers: €2–€5 per person per day is appropriate.
• Other Services: For porters, hotel housekeeping and taxi drivers, small tips of €1–€2 are appreciated.

Tipping is discretionary and should reflect your satisfaction with the service provided. Carrying small denominations of euros will make tipping easier throughout your trip.

Peak Travel Times

The peak travel times across this region run from June to August, when Mediterranean and Adriatic destinations like Venice, Rovinj, Split and Mostar are at their busiest and hottest. Easter and the surrounding spring period are also busy across pilgrimage sites including Međugorje.

Shoulder seasons (May, early June, September and early October) generally offer milder weather, fewer crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere at key sites. Plitvice Lakes National Park can be very busy in summer, while Slovenia's Lake Bled is busiest in mid-summer and around weekends.

Safety and Security

Most national governments provide regularly updated foreign travel advice on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your own government's advice for the most up-to-date travel information before departure and ensure that your travel insurance covers you for all destinations and activities on your trip.

Your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader or local representative will accompany you on all included activities listed on the itinerary, however, you'll have some free time to explore on your own. While your Inspiring Vacations tour leader or local guide will assist you as best they can with your requests and the options available outside your itinerary, please note Inspiring Vacations makes no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running the activity. Please use your judgement when selecting an activity in your free time.

Italy, Slovenia, Austria, Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina are generally safe destinations for travellers, with low rates of serious crime. However, it's wise to exercise common-sense precautions, especially in busy tourist areas like Venice, Split's Old Town and Sarajevo's Baščaršija. Be mindful of your belongings to avoid petty theft such as pickpocketing, particularly in crowded markets and public transport.

Bosnia and Herzegovina contains areas of unexploded ordnance and landmines from the 1990s conflict in some rural and mountainous regions. The areas visited on this tour (Međugorje, Mostar and central Sarajevo) are not affected, but you should always stay on marked paths and roads, and avoid wandering off-trail.

Apps to Download

Some useful apps you may want to consider downloading before your tour include Google Translate, the lens function is especially useful when wanting to read product labels, signs, and menus. Google Maps with offline maps downloaded is great for easy navigation without being reliant on wifi. We also recommend downloading WhatsApp before you leave and using this to communicate with other group members while on tour.

Bolt is a useful ride-share app available across most cities on this tour, including Sarajevo. XE Currency is helpful for conversions between EUR and BAM.

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 trip! 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.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is strongly recommended on all our trips. We require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. It is also important to consider forced pre-trip 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 trips, 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 & Fitness Requirements

All travellers need to be in good physical health to participate fully on this trip. 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.

When selecting your trip please make sure you have read through the itinerary carefully to assess your ability to manage and enjoy our style of travel. If we find that you are unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to yourself and/or the rest of the group, we reserve the right to exclude them from all or part of a trip without refund.

You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information or 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 trip 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 trips, 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 trip.

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. 

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.

Connect with fellow travellers on Facebook

During your booking journey, you might have received an email inviting you to join a special Facebook group dedicated to your chosen destination. These vibrant online communities are exclusively for Inspiring Vacations travellers headed to the same incredible place. Joining this group unlocks a wealth of information and connections. Swap travel tips, share packing insights, or even see if anyone's interested in travelling together. 

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 trip!

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. If you are requested to be at a place at a certain time, please ensure 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.

Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader vs Guide

While both tour leaders and local guides enrich your travel experience, their roles differ. Tour leaders, who often accompany you for the entire trip, 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.

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 in doing so. 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. Purchasing a local SIM may be possible as a final option. 

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 trip 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.

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. 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.

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.