6 Day Kobe & Kinosaki Onsen Discovery

• 5 nights accommodation, including 2 nights in a traditional ryokan at Kinosaki Onsen
• Breakfast daily, 1 Kobe beef lunch and 2 dinners at the ryokan
• Unlimited travel on any JR train in the Kansai Region throughout your tour
• Kobe half-day guided walking tour
• Himeji half-day guided walking tour
• Guided walking tour in Kinosaki Onsen
• Kinosaki Must-Visits Pass
• Sightseeing including entrance fees as per itinerary

• Kobe – Ikuta Shrine
• Kobe – Kitano historical district walking tour
• Kobe – Kobe beef lunch
• Himeji – Himeji Castle, UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Himeji – Japanese garden walking tour
• Kinosaki Onsen – Guided walking tour of the 7 Mystic Hot Springs
• Kinosaki Onsen – Onsenji Temple via Mount Daishi ropeway
• Kinosaki Onsen – Traditional ryokan stay

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 options:

1 - Single Supplement
By paying an additional $1,350.00 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

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.

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.

As an added service, we do offer airport transfers at an additional cost which can be booked via your Traveller Hub. These must be booked at least 70 days prior to departure.

To make your own way to your hotel from the airport, it is recommended to use taxis booked from an official taxi booking desk at the airport, or alternatively you can use ride share apps such as Uber. Japan also has efficient train and limousine bus connections from both Kansai International Airport (KIX) and Osaka Itami Airport (ITM).

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.

Please note that if you are choosing to book an independent airport transfer service, your Inspiring Vacations local representative 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.

Welcome Meeting Instructions

This is an independent tour and there is no formal welcome meeting. Prior to departure you will be given documents with your train tickets, hotel names, and detailed meeting points and start times for your guided walking tours in Kobe, Himeji and Kinosaki Onsen will be provided in your final tour documentation, released approximately 14 to 30 days prior to departure.

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 local representative 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.

Your JR West Pass remains valid on your final day and can be used on any train in the Kansai area, including connections to Kansai International Airport (KIX). For Osaka Itami Airport (ITM), there are limousine bus and taxi options. Most destinations also offer ride-share services such as Uber.
If you're having any problems, you can speak to hotel reception before your departure.

Tour Suitability

• This is an independent tour. While guided walking tours are arranged in Kobe, Himeji and Kinosaki Onsen, you will travel between locations by JR train using your unlimited Kansai Region pass. You will be responsible for navigating stations, managing your own luggage and following the itinerary independently. Confidence with public transport is essential.
• Onsens are enjoyed in the nude, as is customary in Japan, with a focus on relaxation and etiquette. Each onsen has a simple process: passengers rinse off before entering the baths and soak quietly. Please be aware that passengers with tattoos may not be permitted to enter public onsens. Private onsens may be available at the ryokan, please speak with hotel staff on arrival.
• A ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn where you sleep on a futon laid out on tatami flooring. Bedding is set up by staff in the evening. Meals are typically multi-course set menus showcasing local seasonal ingredients, and dietary modifications can be very limited.
• Hotel rooms in Japan, especially in Osaka and Kobe, can be smaller than you may be used to (typically 15–25 sqm). While compact, they are clean and well-designed. Every effort will be made to accommodate double room requests; however, during busy periods, a twin room may be provided instead.
• Japan is best explored on foot. Train stations, particularly in Osaka and Kobe, often involve stairs with limited lift access. Travellers must be confident managing their own luggage on stairs and across platforms.
• In Japan, showers are often located over a bathtub, and bathrooms usually have a raised step at the entrance. Travellers with limited mobility should take this into account, as both features can present accessibility challenges.
• This tour may be combined with other Japan touring options. If you would like more information on alternative tour options or extensions, please contact us.

Cherry Blossom Season

Cherry blossom season is one of the most beautiful times to visit Japan, with stunning pink blooms transforming parks, temples, and city streets. However, it is also the busiest travel period of the year. Popular sightseeing spots attract large crowds, meaning longer wait times at attractions, restaurants, and transport hubs. Trains and hotels are in high demand, and the overall atmosphere is lively and 

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 Leisurely

Our Leisurely tours are designed for a relaxed travel experience, they feature longer stays in each destination and ample free time. Unpack, unwind, and explore at your own pace with minimal early starts or hotel changes.

Activity and Mobility

This tour is categorized as: 3 out of 5 - Balanced

Our Balanced tours involve a moderate level of physical activity and are designed to suit the majority of travellers. Be prepared for walking on varied surfaces, which may include cobblestones, gravel paths, and noticeable inclines common in historic towns and natural areas. You must be confident on your feet and capable of navigating multiple flights of stairs and uneven ground without assistance to fully participate.

Activity snapshot

• Activity: Mostly easy walking, with two half-day guided walking tours in Kobe and Himeji and a 1-hour guided walk in Kinosaki Onsen. Free time at leisure throughout.
• Typical walking distances: 2–4 km on touring days.
• Touring style: Independent travel by JR train between locations, with on-foot exploration in each town.

Mobility requirements

• Mobility: Suits passengers confident with stop-start walking, navigating train stations independently, and managing stairs.
• Luggage: Passengers must carry and manage their own bags during all train transfers and hotel check-ins/outs. Stations often have stairs with limited lift access.
• Hotel bathrooms: Often have a step up into the bathroom; showers typically positioned over bathtubs. Ryokan bathrooms differ and may include shared facilities.
• Accessibility: Not all stations and sites have escalators or lifts; stairs are common at temples, shrines and Himeji Castle.

Walking surfaces

• Predominantly paved city streets and footpaths in Kobe and Osaka.
• Cobblestones and stone steps at heritage sites, including Himeji Castle.
• Gravel and stone paths in the Himeji Castle gardens.
• Stone steps and uneven surfaces around Kinosaki Onsen, particularly at Onsenji Temple.

Terrain & environment

• Cities: Mostly flat and paved (Kobe and Osaka).
• Heritage and nature sites: Himeji Castle involves stairs and slopes; the Mount Daishi ropeway provides access to Onsenji Temple, but additional steps are required at the temple itself.

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: 1 person

Tour Type

This is an independent tour. On this package you will travel from city to city on your own, exploring at your own pace. Transportation between locations within the Kansai region is via your unlimited JR Kansai Region Pass. Local guides are arranged for your half-day walking tours in Kobe and Himeji, and for your 1-hour guided walk in Kinosaki Onsen. Outside of these guided components, your time is at leisure to explore independently.

Getting Around

While travelling through the Kansai region, you will use the JR train network with your included unlimited Kansai Region pass. Japan's rail system is world-class and easier to navigate than many travellers expect. While there are many lines, including regular express trains, underground metros and the Shinkansen (bullet train) on selected routes within Kansai, all are easy to use. Most train stations have platform signage in English and Japanese, as well as symbols denoting regular or bullet trains. When in doubt, consult a staff member or use a maps app such as Google Maps, which provides detailed transport information including platform numbers.

You will be responsible for boarding the correct trains and managing your luggage between stations. Trains can be busy at peak times, so we recommend planning your travel for off-peak hours where possible.

For your guided walking tours in Kobe, Himeji and Kinosaki Onsen, your local guide will meet you at an agreed location on each day, with details provided in your final tour documentation.

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 passengers.

Accommodation Details

In Kobe and Osaka, your accommodation will be in 3-star Business hotels. These hotels offer affordable accommodation and although the rooms are typically small, averaging between 15m² and 20m², they are clean, well-maintained, and equipped with a private bathroom featuring a toilet, sink, and shower. Some rooms may have a shower over a small bath.

These hotels generally provide essential amenities like soap, shampoo, toothbrushes, toothpaste, razors, cotton buds, shower caps, and towels. Most rooms are furnished with a television, air conditioner, hairdryer, empty refrigerator, and a water boiler with complimentary green tea bags. The hotels used are conveniently located near convenience stores and transportation options.

In Kinosaki Onsen, you will stay two nights in a traditional ryokan. A ryokan is a Japanese-style inn where passengers sleep on a futon laid out on tatami flooring. Staff will set up your bedding in the evening. Rooms feature traditional sliding doors and tatami mats, and you will be provided with a yukata (light cotton robe) to wear during your stay, including around the town. Both dinners are included at the ryokan and are typically multi-course set menus showcasing local seasonal cuisine.

Travel Tip: Twin rooms are usually slightly bigger than double rooms in Japan, so if you want a little more space, we suggest requesting a twin room throughout, but keep in mind these are subject to availability.

We strongly recommend only travelling with one piece of luggage per person due to room sizes, and you will be responsible for handling your luggage at all times. Suitcases are permitted in ryokans but must be carried, not wheeled, onto the tatami flooring.

Packing Essentials

What you need to pack for your tour will vary according to the trip style you have chosen and when you are travelling. We recommend you pack as lightly as possible, ensuring that you can carry and lift your luggage, and walk with it for short distances or up and down a flight of stairs.

A lockable suitcase with wheels is suitable for this trip, but keep in mind you will be managing your own luggage on trains and at stations, where stairs are common. We recommend keeping your main luggage to around 15kg and no more than 20kg. A small or medium-sized backpack (45–50 litres) is another good option. You will also need a day pack or bag to carry water, a camera, a jacket, and your essentials while sightseeing.

Other essentials to pack:

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Lightweight, breathable clothing for warmer months, or warm layers for autumn and winter
• A waterproof jacket or compact umbrella
• Modest clothing for visits to temples and shrines (covering shoulders and knees)
• Adapter for Japanese power outlets (Type A)
• Cash in Japanese Yen for smaller purchases
• Personal medications in original packaging (refer to the Personal Medication section regarding restrictions)

Climate

Japan has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons.

• Spring (March–May): Mild and pleasant, with daytime temperatures around 15–22°C. Cherry blossoms typically bloom from late March to early April, but light rain showers are common.
• Summer (June–August): Hot and humid, with highs often reaching 30–34°C. The rainy season falls in June and early July, followed by hotter, sunnier days in late July and August.
• Autumn (September–November): Warm in September, then comfortably cool by October and November. Clear skies and daytime highs of 18–24°C make this one of the best times to visit, with brilliant autumn colours.
• Winter (December–February): Cool but mostly dry, with highs of 8–12°C. Snow is rare in the cities, though mornings and evenings can feel quite cold.

Kinosaki Onsen sits on the Sea of Japan coast and is generally cooler than Osaka and Kobe year-round, with significant snowfall possible in winter. The hot springs are open year-round and are particularly popular in cooler months.

Currency and ATMs

The currency used in Japan is the Yen. Most chains and hotels will accept cards. Convenience stores are the best places to withdraw cash, as almost every store is fitted with an ATM that accepts foreign cards. There are over 20,000 7-Eleven stores across the country, in addition to chains like Lawson and Family Mart. In smaller towns such as Kinosaki Onsen, cash is more widely used, so we recommend carrying some Yen with you for daily expenses.

Food and Allergies

Japanese cuisine is one of the world's most distinctive and varied. Expect everything from delicate sushi and ramen to izakaya pub food, regional specialities such as Kobe beef, and the multi-course kaiseki dinners typically served at ryokans. The Kansai region is particularly known for its food culture, with Osaka often called Japan's kitchen.

In Kinosaki Onsen, both dinners and your two breakfasts are included at the ryokan. Ryokan meals are typically multi-course set menus featuring local seasonal ingredients, and modifications for dietary requirements can be very limited. Please notify our Customer Support Team of any dietary requirements or allergies well before departure so we can communicate these to the ryokan; however, please note some adjustments may not be possible.

Your Kobe beef lunch is a set menu at one of Kobe's popular Kobe beef restaurants. Please advise of any dietary requirements at the time of booking.

While travelling with Inspiring Vacations you'll enjoy iconic sightseeing, as well as experience the vast array of culinary offerings in Japan. 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 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 local guide will endeavor 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.

The Japanese daily diet contains gluten (for example, in flavorings such as soy sauce) and seafood (dashi, or fish stock, is the basis of most dishes, even vegetable-based ones), so we highly recommend that vegetarians, vegans and coeliacs do their research about the options that might be available to them before departure.

Local Customs

It's always a good idea to learn something about local customs before you travel, and visiting Japan is no exception. Your local guides will be on hand during your guided walking tours to help you navigate cultural differences.

Please note, decorative tattoos are uncommon in Japanese culture and you may receive curious or sometimes disapproving looks from locals. Generally, comments about tattoos are not common, but please endeavour to wear modest clothing and check the rules for bathing in public onsens. Tattoos may prevent you from entering some onsen facilities.

When entering temples, ryokans and many traditional restaurants, you will be asked to remove your shoes. Shoes are not worn on tatami flooring. Slip-on footwear is practical for this reason.

Onsens

Visiting a traditional Japanese onsen, or hot spring, is a quintessential local experience and Kinosaki Onsen is one of the best-known onsen towns in Japan. In a public onsen, this means bathing in the nude with others of the same sex. While the experience may feel uncomfortable at first, most travellers end up enjoying this activity and are pleased they participated.

There is very specific etiquette for visiting onsens. You must rinse off thoroughly at the washing stations before entering the bath, hair must be tied up, and bathing suits are not permitted. Towels should not enter the water. Your local guide in Kinosaki Onsen will provide further tips during your guided walk. Please be aware that travellers with tattoos may not be permitted to enter public onsens. Private onsens may also be available at the ryokan.

Dress Code

While Japan is known for its eclectic fashion in some cities, overall it is quite a conservative country. While on tour you will visit temples, shrines, a castle and traditional onsen towns. While visiting such places, especially those of religious significance, it is important to be respectful to staff and other visitors by wearing modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
In Kinosaki Onsen, you will be provided with a yukata (light cotton robe) at your ryokan, and it is common to walk around the town wearing this between the public bathhouses. This is part of the local culture and is encouraged.

Responsible Dining

We are big supporters of the protection of endangered species around the world. Although a global ban on commercial whaling came into effect in 1986, approximately 1,000 whales are still being killed every year. We do not visit places that serve whale meat on any of our trips, nor will your local guide direct you to where it is offered.

Be respectful of local customs and food practices, and always tip fairly to support local workers where appropriate. Responsible dining helps protect the environment and promotes the wellbeing of local communities.

Tipping

Tipping is not customary in Japan and is generally not expected. In fact, tipping in restaurants and taxis can sometimes cause confusion. For your guided walking tours, a tip is not expected but will be appreciated if you feel your guide has provided exceptional service. Tipping is, of course, at your discretion.

Peak Travel Times

Please be aware that travelling during major national holidays (late April to early May for Golden Week in Japan) and peak seasons (April–May and September–October) are popular times to travel, but there are some downsides to consider. There will be large crowds at most tourist attractions and on all public transport. It can be difficult to secure train tickets at preferred times during these periods. Hotels and ryokans book out far in advance, particularly in popular destinations like Kinosaki Onsen.

Kinosaki Onsen is also particularly popular during the colder months (November to February), when soaking in the hot springs is at its most appealing, and during the cherry blossom season in spring.

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 local guides will accompany you on the included guided walking tours; however, you will have substantial free time to explore on your own throughout this independent tour. While our local representatives will assist you as best they can with your requests, please note Inspiring Vacations makes no representations about the safety of activities you choose to participate in during your free time. Please use your judgement when selecting an activity in your free time.

Apps to Download

Some useful apps you may want to consider downloading before your tour include Google Translate, which has a lens function that is especially useful when wanting to read product labels, signs, and menus. Google Maps with offline maps downloaded is excellent for easy navigation without being reliant on Wi-Fi, and is the most reliable way to navigate the JR network. The most widely used taxi app is GO Taxi. We also recommend downloading WhatsApp before you leave and using it to communicate with our local representatives during your tour. For those visiting during cherry blossom season, the Sakura Navi app (developed by the Japan Meteorological Corporation) tracks the cherry blossom forecast in real time for the entire country.

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 tour!

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.