Mix & Match: Italy by Rail

• 7 nights in 3-star hotels (upgrade to 4-star accommodation available)
• Airport transfer included on arrival
• 7 breakfasts
• Second Class rail tickets as per itinerary (upgrade to First Class available)
• Colosseum and Roman Forum group tour with local guide and entrance ticket
• Half day guided tour of Florence
• 30 minute shared gondola ride in Venice
• 24 hour hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus in Milan
• Entrance fees as specified in the itinerary

• Rome – Colosseum and Roman Forum guided tour
• Florence – Guided city tour
• Venice – Gondola ride
• Milan – Hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus

Pre/post accommodation
Not available

Upgrades
First Class Rail Upgrade ($91 per person)
Select this supplement if you would like to upgrade your itinerary to 1st class rail on all sectors.

With rows of 3 seats instead of 4, extra space for your legs, a wider seat and backrest, First Class has been designed for your comfort and serenity.

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 options:

1 - Single Supplement
By paying an additional $1,650.00 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

Payment Information
This product requires a $99.00 deposit per person and full payment within 48 hours to secure your booking. 
Once you have created your booking you will be directed to your invoice to choose your preferred payment method.

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 a sign with your name 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.

If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfer can be confirmed.

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.

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. 

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 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.

Tour Suitability

• Best suited to independent, confident travellers who enjoy self-guided exploration paired with pre-booked trains, hotels and guided highlights in each city.
• You travel between Rome, Florence, Venice and Milan by high-speed train and carry your own luggage between stations and hotels, often over cobbled streets and steps, so a moderate level of fitness is recommended and packing light is essential.
• Historic centres are largely pedestrianised, with regular walking on uneven ground. 
• Italy's most popular destinations, attractions and sites are extremely busy during peak periods, with long queues and large crowds at major sights. Where possible, pre-booking entry and travelling in the shoulder seasons will make for a more relaxed experience
  

Venice Access Fee

Venice has implemented an access fee charged to day trip visitors who are not staying overnight in the municipality of Venice, during specific high season dates. The calendar of dates and further information is available here.

If you are staying in an accommodation in the municipality of Venice, then you are exempt from this fee. However, to avoid paying the fee you must register for an exemption by filling out an exemption request here. The exemption form will provide you with a QR code you can show on your phone. 

If required for your travel dates, you may pre-book once you have received your final documents confirming your hotel. The exemption must be completed before entering the city but can be done while travelling.

Hotel City Taxes

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.

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 Steady

Our steady tours offer a good mix of guided sightseeing and personal free time. With a combination of 2-3 night stays and occasional 1-night stops in key locations, this pace allows for deeper exploration while minimising long travel days.

Activity and Mobility

This tour is categorised as: 2 out of 5 – Relaxed

Our Relaxed tours involve light activity at an easy pace. Expect short to moderate walks on mostly even surfaces such as paved paths and boardwalks, with occasional gentle inclines. You should be steady on your feet and able to manage a few steps and get on/off coaches or boats without assistance to fully participate.

• Activity level: an independent, self-guided rail tour with daily walking in each city and generous free time. Flexible – you decide the pace and intensity. Independent tours can include anything from light city strolling to more active day trips and excursions. Expect some walking each day, particularly around stations, sightseeing areas, and local neighbourhoods.
• Typical walking distances: Vary by choice of activities, though most included day tours involve 2–4 km of walking.
• Touring style: Independent travel primarily by train, with included day tours and optional activities. Travellers set their own daily pace, but should be prepared for walking in and around stations and sightseeing areas.

Mobility requirements

• Mobility: best suited to passengers who can manage stairs, uneven surfaces and their own luggage. The independent structure means most walking can be paced to suit you, but station transfers and cobbles cannot be avoided.
• Hotels, transport and climate: travel is by high-speed, intercity and regional trains, plus the included gondola in Venice and hop-on hop-off bus in Milan. Lifts and accessible rooms vary by property and cannot be guaranteed. CPAP users should carry a suitable adaptor, as Italy runs on 230V.

Terrain & Environment

Cities: cobbled streets, canal bridges and steps in Venice, and station platforms without lifts or escalators in some places. You carry your own luggage between stations and hotels.
Cultural sites: may involve steps, slopes, and mixed surfaces. Can be very busy and crowded, especially during peak periods.

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: 2

Escorted Style

This is an Independent tour, where you will travel from city to city on your own, exploring at your own pace. We have arranged transportation in most cases and day tours for you to see the destination. Enjoy the time and flexibility to linger longer or pick up the pace and see as much as possible. The choice is yours.

Tour Type

This is an independent tour. In Rome and Florence you are joined by local guides for the included city tours, while you travel between cities and explore each destination on your own.
On these packages you will travel from city to city on your own, exploring at your own pace. We have arranged transportation in most cases and day tours for you to see the destination. Enjoy the time and flexibility to linger longer or pick up the pace and see as much as possible. The choice is yours.

Exclusions

• International airfares
• Departure airport transfer
• Visas
• Travel insurance (compulsory)
• Tipping
• Optional activities
• Personal expenses
• Local hotel city taxes, payable directly to each hotel
• Anything not mentioned in the itinerary

Getting Around

This tour is designed around Italy’s rail network, offering a scenic and efficient way to travel between cities. You travel on of high-speedtrains, with tickets and seat reservations included where applicable, and central stations that make it easy to reach your accommodation on foot.

In the cities, most sightseeing is done independently on foot, as many historic centres are pedestrianised. Expect regular walking, including up and down steps, through stations and on cobbled streets. In Venice, travel is on foot and by water. A shared gondola ride is included in Venice, and a 24 hour hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus is included in Milan.

You carry your own luggage throughout, including on and off trains, so packing light is essential.

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

Accommodation is in carefully selected 4-star hotels. Properties are chosen for their convenience and proximity to each city’s main train station, allowing easy arrival and departure and quick access to the sights on foot.

Rooms in historic city-centre hotels can be compact, and amenities vary between properties. Bedding configuration (double or twin) is a request only and cannot be guaranteed. Daily breakfast is included at each hotel.

A city tax applies in Italy and is payable directly to each hotel. It is set by local authorities, can only be paid locally, and can change without notice.

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.

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)

Health & Essentials:

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

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)

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
• Daypack to carry essentials 

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

Climate

This tour visits Rome, Florence, Venice and Milan, all of which have a temperate climate with distinct seasons. Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) are mild and pleasant, with occasional rain and daytime temperatures around 15°C to 25°C. Summer (July and August) can be hot and humid, particularly in Florence and inland cities, with temperatures often reaching the mid-30s°C. Winter (December to February) is cold and damp in the north, with temperatures around 3°C to 10°C, and Venice can experience high water (acqua alta) and fog.

Pack layers suited to your travel dates, with sun protection in summer and a warm, waterproof layer in the cooler months.

Currency and ATMs

The currency in Italy is the Euro (€). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas, and major credit and debit cards are generally accepted. It is still a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases, cafes and tips, and to have a mix of larger and smaller denominations. Notify your bank of your travel dates to avoid any issues using your cards in Italy.

Food and Allergies

While travelling with Inspiring Vacations you’ll enjoy iconic sightseeing alongside a taste of the local cuisine. On this tour, breakfast is included daily (7 breakfasts in total). All other meals are at your own arrangement, giving you the freedom to explore Italy’s food scene at your own pace.

Each city has its own specialities. In Rome, try classic pasta dishes such as carbonara and cacio e pepe. Florence and the surrounding Tuscan countryside are known for hearty fare and Chianti reds, including bistecca alla fiorentina. In Milan, look out for risotto alla milanese and the tradition of aperitivo. In Venice, sample cicchetti (Venetian small plates) and seafood risotto along the canals.

If you have specific dietary needs or allergies, please inform our Customer Support Team before departure. While Italy is generally accommodating, you are responsible for managing your food choices throughout the tour.

Local Customs

Italians are generally warm and courteous. A handshake is common when meeting, and in more familiar settings a kiss on both cheeks. Meal times run later than in some countries, with lunch typically from around 1pm and dinner from around 8pm. Italians take their food seriously, so allow time to enjoy meals.

When visiting churches, cathedrals and historical monuments, dress modestly and behave respectfully. In some towns you may find shops and businesses closing for a few hours in the afternoon. Respecting these customs will enrich your experience and your interactions with locals.

Dress Code

Dress is generally relaxed and smart-casual. For churches and religious sites, including St Mark’s Basilica in Venice and sites in Rome, shoulders and knees must be covered, so carry a light scarf or wrap in the warmer months. Comfortable, sturdy walking shoes are essential for cobbled streets. Pack a warm layer and waterproof for cooler or wetter periods, and lightweight, breathable clothing for summer.

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 in Italy is appreciated but not expected, and as this is an independent tour it is entirely at your discretion.

In restaurants, if a service charge (coperto) is not already on the bill, rounding up or leaving €1 to €2 per person is appreciated for good service; in higher-end restaurants, 5 to 10% is more common.

For hotel staff, €1 to €2 per bag for porters and a small amount per day for housekeeping is customary. For taxi drivers, rounding up to the nearest euro is usual.

For local guides on optional tours, €5 to €10 per person for a half-day tour and €10 to €15 for a full-day tour is a good guide. Keep small euro coins and notes on hand, as tipping is usually done in cash.

Peak Travel Times

High season in Italy runs from June to August, when the cities are busiest and warmest. Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) offer milder weather and thinner crowds, and are ideal for walking-based sightseeing. Winter is quieter, though Rome, Florence, Venice and Milan remain popular around the Christmas and New Year period. Public holidays, Easter and major events can increase crowds and prices, and some attractions may have reduced hours in the low season.

Safety and Security

Italy is generally a safe destination, but take common-sense precautions. Pickpocketing is the main concern in busy tourist areas, on public transport and around major attractions in Rome, Florence, Venice and Milan, so keep valuables secure and out of sight. Use licensed taxis and reputable operators, and avoid poorly lit or unfamiliar areas late at night. As this is an independent tour, you are responsible for your own safety and wellbeing between the included activities. Check your government’s travel advice before you travel.

Apps to Download

A few handy apps can help make your independent journey through Italy smoother and more enjoyable:

• Google Translate – Ideal for translating signs, menus, and product labels. The camera function (Lens) is particularly helpful when you need instant translations on the go.
• Google Maps – Essential for navigation. Be sure to download offline maps for cities like Rome, Florence, Venice, and Milan so you can get around without needing Wi-Fi or mobile data.
• Citymapper – Great for planning public transport routes, walking paths, and cycling directions in major Italian cities.
• Trainline or Trenitalia – These apps allow you to check train timetables, track platforms, and manage your rail travel. Trenitalia is Italy’s national rail service, while Trainline offers a user-friendly interface and English support.
• ATAC Roma – Useful for navigating Rome’s public transportation system, including buses, trams, and the metro.
• Free Now or It Taxi – Helpful for booking taxis in cities across Italy. Uber operates in limited areas, but these local apps are widely used and reliable.
• WhatsApp – Popular throughout Italy and Europe, this app is perfect for keeping in touch with friends, family, and local contacts during your travels.

Having these apps downloaded and set up before your departure can save time and make getting around much easier—especially when you’re on the move between destinations.

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.