Mix & Match: Vilnius to Helsinki

• Independent travel with all arrangements made for you and free time to explore at your own pace
• Walking tours with a local expert guide in Vilnius, Riga and Tallinn
• 7 nights of 4-star accommodation
• Breakfast daily
• Premium inter-city bus travel with wifi and entertainment in a Lux Express Standard seat
• Ferry from Tallinn to Helsinki
• Transfers as per itinerary between stations, ports and hotels
• Sightseeing including entry fees as per itinerary 

• Vilnius – Walking tour
• Riga – Walking tour
• Tallinn – Walking tour

Optional tours
To enhance your journey, we are offering guests a choice of the following optional activities (prices are per person):

• Excursion to Trakai (Day 2) - $761 per person

• Excursion to Kaunas (Day 2) - $985 per person

• Excursion Jurmala (Day 4) - $761 per person

• Excursion to Rundale (Day 4) - $1220 per person

• Excursion to Rocca al Mare (Day 6) - $743 per person

Optional tours can be selected during the booking process, or once you have finalised your tour purchase and paid your deposit. When completing your Passenger Booking Form, you will be asked if you would like to add Optional Tours, where any applicable cost will be added to your final balance. If you choose not to select them at this time, you can choose to add them later by logging in to your Account online.

Please note that you must select your Optional Tours no later than 70 days before departure, after which you will be required to purchase them on tour. Please keep in mind that anything purchased on-tour is subject to availability and prices may vary as you will be paying in local currency. We appreciate your understanding

Pre/Post Tour Accommodation
Pre and post tour accommodation is not available on this tour.

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 $1,900.00 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 

Payment Information
Secure your trip with a $99.00 deposit per person.
Once we receive your deposit, we will send you an invoice with your remaining balance and payment options.

Instalment Schedule:

1. At the time of booking pay a $99.00 deposit per person.
2. Pay a 1st installment of $1,099.00 per person within 7 days.
3. Pay a 2nd installment of $1,978.00 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 not included as part of your package. However, we trust that your journey from the airport to your 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 rank, or alternatively you can use a ride share app such as Bolt, which is widely used across the Baltics.

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.

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 your Helsinki 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.

To make your own way to the airport, there are frequent train and bus connections from central Helsinki, and ride share apps such as Bolt are widely used. If you are having any problems, you can speak to hotel reception before your departure.

Tour Suitability

• This tour is best suited to independent travellers who are comfortable managing their own days, meals and local transport between the arranged coaches, ferry and transfers. There is no tour leader accompanying you throughout.
• The Baltic capitals and Helsinki are compact and walkable, but the Old Towns are cobbled and some sights involve stairs or uneven ground. Comfortable footwear and a reasonable level of fitness are recommended.
• You will carry and manage your own luggage, including on and off the inter-city buses and the ferry, and at stations and ports where porterage is not available. Pack light and use luggage with wheels.
• Travel between cities is by scheduled premium coach and a ferry across the Gulf of Finland. Services run to a timetable, so allow time to reach stations and the port and keep your documentation to hand.
• The itinerary is self-guided beyond the included walking tours. Popular sites can be busy, so booking any additional tours or activities ahead is sensible. Weather can be changeable and cool even in summer, so pack layers and a light waterproof.

Visas & Entry Requirements

Many countries require a visa and obtaining the correct visa for your tour and any countries you may transit through is your responsibility. We recommend you check your visa requirements as soon as you have booked your tour. This will ensure you have time to prepare your documents and for your visa application to be processed. You can check the visa entry requirements for your nationality via our page here: https://inspiringvacations-8357211.hs-sites.com/visa-information 

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

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

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.

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. This pace applies consistently across both Algeria and Tunisia on this tour.

Activity and Mobility
This tour is categorised 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 steps and uneven ground without assistance to fully participate.

Activity level: Independent and self-paced, with three included two-hour guided walking tours and otherwise free time to explore.

• Typical walking: The guided Old Town tours run around two hours each on foot. Beyond these, walking is up to you, though the cobbled centres and some sights involve stairs and uneven ground.
• Optional longer walks: Optional day excursions (for example Trakai, Rundale or Rocca al Mare) involve additional walking and standing, with distances varying by tour.
• Terrain and key walks: The Old Towns of Vilnius, Riga, Tallinn and central Helsinki are cobbled and gently hilly, with steps in places such as Tallinn's upper town. Bus stations and the ferry terminal involve some walking, occasionally with stairs.
  

Mobility and accessibility: Best suited to passengers who can manage stairs, slopes and cobbles unaided and handle their own luggage on and off coaches and the ferry. Independent days can be scaled to suit. Wheelchairs and mobility aids are difficult on cobbles and at some stations and ports; please disclose any mobility needs at the time of booking.

Hotels, transport and climate: Inter-city travel is by premium Lux Express coach and a Tallinn to Helsinki ferry, with station and port transfers as per the itinerary. Lifts and step-free rooms are not guaranteed. CPAP users should carry a portable battery for the coach and ferry legs. Weather is cool to cold outside high summer, so dress in layers.

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

As this is an independent tour, your group will consist only of you and the travellers on your own booking.

Escorted Style

This is an independent tour. You will travel from city to city on your own, exploring at your own pace, with your coaches, ferry, transfers and accommodation arranged for you. There is no tour leader, though a local guide leads your walking tour in each Baltic capital. Enjoy the freedom to linger longer or pick up the pace and see as much as possible. The choice is yours.

Tour Type

Explore at your own pace with an expertly crafted Independent itinerary that offers both must-see sights and free time, with all accommodation and transportation pre-arranged.

Exclusions

• International airfares
• Arrival and departure airport transfers
• Visas
• Travel insurance (compulsory)
• Tipping
• Optional activities
• All meals other than breakfast
• Personal expenses
• Anything not mentioned in the itinerary

Getting Around

Travel between the Baltic capitals is by premium Lux Express coach, running Vilnius to Riga and Riga to Tallinn as per your itinerary. Coaches are modern and well equipped, with wifi, entertainment and spacious seating. From Tallinn you cross the Gulf of Finland to Helsinki by ferry.

Coach and ferry tickets are included, along with the transfers between stations, ports and hotels shown in the itinerary. You handle your own luggage on and off the coach and ferry, so pack light. Bus stations are straightforward but can involve walking between counters and gates, or stairs, so arrive at least 30 minutes before departure.

Within each city you are free to get around on foot, by local public transport or by ride share app such as Bolt. Where you book optional tours, transport to and from the meeting point may not be included, so allow time to make your own way.

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

In the Baltic capitals and Helsinki, we have carefully selected 4-star hotels for your stay. Properties are well located for reaching the historic Old Towns and main attractions on foot, so you can make the most of your time in each city.

European hotel star ratings can differ from what you may be used to in other regions, but all selected properties offer quality amenities and a welcoming base after a day of exploring. Rooms can be more compact than you may expect, and amenities such as kettles or in-room tea and coffee are not always provided.

Bedding configuration (double or twin) is a request only. Every effort is made to meet your preference, but it cannot be guaranteed at all properties.

Packing Essentials

For the Baltics and Helsinki we recommend packing light, in a wheeled case or pack you can manage unassisted on and off coaches and the ferry, plus a small day bag. Suggested items:

• Layers you can add or remove as temperatures change through the day
• A light, warm and waterproof jacket, useful even in summer
• Comfortable, sturdy walking shoes for cobbled streets and stairs
• A hat, sunglasses and sunscreen for the long summer daylight hours
• Warmer clothing, gloves, scarf and a hat if travelling in the colder months
• A universal travel adapter (Type C and F plugs, 230V)
• A refillable water bottle
• Any personal medication in its original packaging
  

Climate

The climate across Vilnius, Riga, Tallinn and Helsinki varies noticeably by season, so pack for the time of year you are travelling.

Summer (June to August) is mild and pleasant, with long daylight hours and temperatures usually between 17 and 22 degrees, occasionally warmer. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are cool and fresh, from around 5 to 15 degrees, with changeable weather and a light jacket recommended. Winter (December to February) is cold, often below freezing and down to minus 15 degrees, with snow common, so thermal layers, a heavy coat, gloves, scarf and hat are essential.

Currency and ATMs

The currency across all four cities is the Euro (EUR), as Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia and Finland are all in the Eurozone, making transactions straightforward throughout.

ATMs are widely available and cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants and shops. Carry some cash and small coins for markets, public transport, tips and smaller establishments. Inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with card transactions abroad.

Food and Allergies

While travelling with Inspiring Vacations you will enjoy breakfast daily. All other meals are at your own arrangement, giving you the freedom to seek out cafes, markets and restaurants across each city at your own pace.

Baltic cooking is hearty and seasonal, built on potatoes, rye bread, fish, pork and local vegetables. Look out for Lithuanian cepelinai (potato dumplings), Latvian rye bread dishes and Estonian black bread with smoked fish, and in Helsinki, Finnish specialities such as salmon soup and rye pastries. Larger cities cater well for gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan diets.

If you have dietary requirements or allergies, let your server know when ordering. English is widely spoken in city restaurants, though carrying a translation of key allergy terms is sensible for smaller or more traditional establishments.

Local Customs

People across the Baltics and Finland tend to be reserved and polite, and value calm, considerate behaviour in public. Loud conversation can be seen as disrespectful, particularly on public transport and in churches and museums.

The region has a strong sense of national pride and a difficult 20th-century history, so approach topics such as the Soviet and Nazi occupations with sensitivity. A friendly greeting and a few local words are warmly received.

Check for signs before photographing inside churches and museums, as some charge a small fee or do not permit photography. On public transport, it is polite to offer your seat to elderly passengers or those with children.

Dress Code

Dress across the Baltic capitals and Helsinki is casual and practical, with smart-casual preferred for finer dining. Comfortable, sturdy shoes are ideal for cobbled streets.

Pack for the season: light layers in summer, and warm, waterproof clothing in the cooler months. If visiting churches, modest dress covering shoulders and knees is respectful.

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 the Baltics and Finland is appreciated but not obligatory. In restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving around 5 to 10 percent for good service is customary. Small tips for guides and taxi drivers are welcome.

Peak Travel Times

Summer (June to August) is peak season, with the warmest weather, long daylight hours, festivals and the busiest, priciest hotels. Book early if travelling then.

The shoulder months of May and September offer mild weather and thinner crowds. December brings Christmas markets and a festive atmosphere across the capitals, though it is cold and daylight is short.

Safety and Security

Vilnius, Riga, Tallinn and Helsinki are generally safe, with low rates of serious crime. Take the usual precautions against pickpocketing in crowded areas, on public transport and at markets, and keep an eye on your belongings.

The emergency number across all four countries is 112, and English is widely understood by responders. Use official taxis or a ride share app such as Bolt rather than unmarked cars, agree fares in advance where relevant, and carry a copy of your passport and key documents separately from the originals.

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. 

There are several useful apps that can enhance your experience when visiting Vilnius, Riga, and Tallinn. These apps can help with navigation, communication, transportation, and local services, making it easier to explore the cities. Here are a few recommendations:

• Vilnius: Vilniaus Viešasis Transportas – This app provides real-time public transport schedules, routes, and information on buses and trolleybuses in Vilnius.
• Riga: Rīgas Satiksme – For real-time bus, tram, and trolleybus timetables in Riga, this app is helpful for planning your journey around the city.
• Tallinn: Tallinna Linnatransport – This app gives you access to Tallinn’s public transport system, including buses, trolleys, and trams, with route information and timetables.
• Bolt or Yandex Go (Ride-hailing apps) - If you prefer a taxi or ride-sharing service, Bolt (available in all three cities) is the most popular and widely used app in the Baltics. It's user-friendly, affordable, and available in English. Yandex Go is another option in Tallinn and some other cities in the region.

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/content/travel.html
• 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

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