16 Day Independent France by Rail

• 15 nights in 3-star accommodation 
• 2nd Class train tickets 
• Breakfast daily
• Half-Day guided tour in Carcassonne
• Half-Day tour in Provence's villages
• Half-Day guided tour in Alsace’s villages

• Avignon - Medieval city of Carcassonne visit 
• Nice - Roussillon visit 
• Nice - Gordes visit 
• Nice - Fontaine-de-Vaucluse visit 
• Strasbourg - Barr visit 
• Strasbourg - Mittelbergheim visit 
• Strasbourg - Andlau visit

Upgrades
1st Class Train Tickets

Select this supplement if you would like to upgrade your itinerary to 1st class rail on all sectors. Upgrade for $391 per person. 

Hotel Upgrade
Standard hotels are comfortable and well located. However, you can opt to upgrade your accommodation to 4-star hotels throughout the tour for an additional:

• $542 per person, for double and twin share
• $1,121 per person, for solo travellers

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

Pre Tour Accommodation

• $300.00 per room, per night for double and twin share
• $279.00 per room, per night for solo travellers

Post Tour Accommodation

• $300.00 per room, per night for double and twin share
• $279.00 per room, per night for solo travellers

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

Pre Tour Accommodation - 4-star Upgrade
Pre tour accommodation on  4-star hotels upgrade will incur the following surcharges in addition to prices mentioned above:

• $84 per person, per night for double and twin share
• $70  per person, per night for solo travellers

Post Tour Accommodation - 4-star Upgrade
Similarly, the following extra surcharge applies to post tour accommodation:

• $84 per person, per night for double and twin share
• $70 per person, per night for solo travellers

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 three options:

1 - Single Supplement
By paying an additional $1,600.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price, you guarantee the privacy of your room throughout the entire trip.

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. All rooms provided to single travellers will be smaller than the twin rooms we recommend for two people. Unfortunately, this is typical for Japan, as the cost to solely occupy a twin-size room is incredibly high. We appreciate your understanding.

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 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
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:

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.

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 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's essential to promptly communicate them to your tour leader or local representative. This ensures they can take immediate action to address the problem and mitigate any negative impact on the remainder of your journey.

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

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

Finishing Point

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

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

Departure Details

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

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

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

Tour Suitability

• Enjoy a flexible itinerary with the freedom to explore at your own pace, but be prepared to navigate the rail system on your own.
• On this trip, your primary mode of transportation is the train, an efficient way to cover long distances while avoiding traffic and arriving directly in the city centre. Trains are comfortable and equipped with toilets, though they can occasionally be busy. Please note that you’ll need to carry your own luggage on and off the train, so ensure it meets our recommended weight and size limits.
• France’s trains are efficient and well-connected, making travel smooth, but a basic understanding of schedules and platforms will be helpful.
• The itinerary balances structured train travel with free time, allowing you to personalise your experience. Popular attractions may require advance booking.
• Accommodation on this package is confirmed by hotel category, not by a specific property. Based on your selected standard (3- or 4-star), we secure quality hotels in each destination according to availability. Your confirmed hotel list will be provided with your final travel documents.
• France is full of historic buildings, many of which do not have lifts or escalators, this can include some train stations and hotels. Be prepared to carry your bags up and down stairs.

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.

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 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 multiple flights of stairs and uneven ground without assistance to fully participate.

Mobility Requirements

You will need to manage your own luggage throughout the journey, including carrying bags on and off trains, moving through busy train stations, and walking between stations and hotels. Some station platforms may require the use of stairs, and lifts or escalators are not always available. We recommend packing light and ensuring you are comfortable handling your luggage independently for short but sometimes busy walks.

Most cities may involve walking on cobblestone streets, gentle inclines, or historical sites with steps and uneven surfaces—comfortable footwear is recommended. In Carcassonne, as the old city is built on a hill,walking the ramparts and through the gates involves a bit of up‑and‑down. Provence villages are built on hills or cliffs, so walking around means ups and downs. Wandering the small streets and hilltops gives lovely views over the countryside.

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 passengers.

All included excursions will be conducted as small-group tours, with a maximum of 10 participants.

Escorted Style

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.

Tour Type

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

Exclusions

• Visas
• Travel insurance
• Tipping
• Optional activities
• Personal expenses
• Anything not mentioned in the itinerary
• City taxes in each city payable at the hotel (from 2.5EUR to 6EUR per person per day, depending on the location)

Getting Around

This trip is self-guided, with rail travel connecting each destination. Your final documentation will include your tickets along with clear step-by-step directions. You’ll make your own way through train stations, board the trains independently, and manage your luggage throughout. Rail services are generally comfortable, usually air-conditioned, and always equipped with restrooms. Some trains may also offer food options or onboard power outlets, though availability varies. Travelling by train is an efficient way to cover longer distances, skip road congestion, and arrive right in the heart of each city.

Note that there is no direct train between Toulouse to Avignon, and you will have to change trains at Marseille train station. 

The excursions included in the tour are conducted by private coach. 

Luggage Requirements

Luggage Limit: Due to the nature of this trip, it is crucial that each person limits their luggage to one piece weighing a maximum of 20kg, along with a carry-on luggage.

You’ll be responsible for managing your own luggage throughout your journey. This means handling your bags at train stations, navigating through platforms, and ensuring your luggage is easily manageable for boarding and disembarking the trains. Many hotels are accessed via cobbled streets and stairs, so you should be able to lift and carry your luggage without assistance. Packing light and in a way that allows you to carry your own luggage comfortably will ensure a smoother experience throughout the trip. By following these packing guidelines, you’ll be set for a hassle-free and enjoyable Swiss rail adventure.

Hotel Ratings

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 analyze a wider range of genuine customer reviews and experiences, giving you a well-rounded understanding of the hotel's typical star rating. This means you can book with confidence, knowing the hotel has a strong track record of satisfied guests.

Accommodation Details

Throughout this tour, we have carefully selected comfortable and well-appointed hotels to enhance your travel experience. Accommodations are located inside the city centers offering good connections to public transport for independent exploration.

Space is often at a premium in France, particularly in centrally located hotels, so rooms may be more compact than you’re accustomed to. Additionally, amenities like kettles and in-room tea or coffee are not always provided.

Please note that a city tax must be paid at the hotel in each destination. The amount varies depending on the city, but as a general guideline you can expect to pay approximately €2.50 to €6.00 per person, per day.

Packing Essentials

What you need to pack for your French rail journey will depend on your travel style and the time of year. We recommend packing as lightly as possible so you can easily manage your luggage through bustling train stations and on board trains, which may involve stairs or short walks with your bags.

A lockable suitcase with wheels is ideal for ease of transport, and keeping your luggage under 20kg will make your travels much smoother. You may also want to bring a small backpack (45–50 litres) for day trips, along with a day pack to carry water, snacks, a camera, and other essentials during your explorations.

Clothing: Pack a mix of lightweight and warm layers to handle France’s variable weather, from sunny Riviera days to cooler northern cities. A light waterproof jacket is recommended for occasional rain showers, especially in Paris or coastal regions.

Footwear: Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are essential for walking through city streets, historic towns, and train stations.

Sun Protection: Bring a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses to protect yourself during outdoor sightseeing, particularly in southern France or on wine tours.

Medical Kit: Carry personal items like pain relievers, Band-Aids, insect repellent, and any prescription medication you may need.

Water Bottle: A refillable bottle (at least 1.5 litres) will help you stay hydrated while minimizing plastic waste.

Camera/Phone: Don’t forget to bring something to capture the stunning architecture, scenic countryside, and charming streets.

Comfort Items: A book, journal, or music can make long train rides and relaxing café breaks even more enjoyable.

Travel Adapter: France uses Type C and E plugs with a voltage of 230V, so don’t forget a power adapter for your devices.

Climate

France enjoys a diverse climate due to its size and geography, ranging from Mediterranean warmth in the south to cooler, temperate conditions in the north, and alpine climates in mountainous regions.

Spring (March–May)

• Lowland & City Areas (Paris, Lyon, Toulouse, Avignon, Bordeaux): Mild temperatures, generally 12–20°C. Occasional rain showers, so a light jacket or umbrella is recommended.

• Coastal & Southern Regions (Nice): Warmer and sunnier, around 15–22°C. Perfect for sightseeing, outdoor cafés, and early beach days.

Summer (June–August)

• Lowland & City Areas: Warm, daytime highs 22–30°C, cooler evenings. Occasional thunderstorms are possible.

• Coastal & Southern Regions: Hot, sunny weather, 25–32°C. Ideal for beaches, vineyards, and outdoor activities.

Autumn (September–November)

• Lowland & City Areas: Mild to cool, 10–20°C, with decreasing daylight and occasional rain. A waterproof jacket or sweater is useful.

• Coastal & Southern Regions: Pleasant, often 15–25°C. Vineyards and countryside are particularly scenic with fall colors.

Winter (December–February)

• Lowland & City Areas: Cold but generally above freezing, 3–8°C, with occasional frost. Snow is possible but rare in Paris and the western regions.

• Coastal & Southern Regions: Milder winters, 7–13°C. Snow is rare along the Mediterranean coast.

Weather Variability

• France’s weather can change quickly, particularly in coastal and mountainous regions. Layering is key to staying comfortable.

• Southern France generally enjoys more sunshine year-round, while northern regions and inland areas experience more rain and temperature fluctuations.

Travel Tip: Packing versatile clothing—light layers for spring and autumn, sun protection for summer, and warm winter layers for mountains—will ensure comfort no matter the season or region.

Currency and ATMs

France’s official currency is the Euro (€).

Card Payments & ATMs – Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in cities, towns, and tourist areas. Some small shops, local markets, or rural establishments may prefer cash, so having a small amount of euros is useful. ATMs are plentiful in both urban and rural areas.

Tipping Culture – Service charges are included in most restaurant bills, so tipping is not obligatory. Leaving 5–10% for exceptional service is appreciated but not expected. For taxis, rounding up the fare is common.

Exchange & Withdrawals – Currency exchange is available at airports, banks, and train stations. Withdrawing euros directly from ATMs usually gives the best exchange rate.

France can be moderately expensive in major cities and tourist hotspots, so budgeting for meals, activities, and personal expenses will help your trip run smoothly.

Food and Allergies

French cuisine is world-renowned for its variety, quality, and regional specialties—from fresh seafood on the coast to rich cheeses, pastries, and wines inland.

Dietary Requirements – Restaurants and hotels are generally accommodating of vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and lactose-free diets, though options may be limited in small villages. 

Food Allergies – Many restaurants provide allergen information on menus, but it’s advisable to carry an allergy card in French for clear communication if you have severe allergies.

Self-Catering & Supermarkets – French supermarkets (like Carrefour, Leclerc, and Monoprix) offer a wide selection of fresh, organic, and allergy-friendly products. Markets are also excellent for fresh produce, cheese, and baked goods.

Double-check ingredient lists and communicate your needs when dining out to ensure a safe and enjoyable culinary experience.

Local Customs

France has a rich cultural heritage, and understanding local customs enhances your visit:

Punctuality – While social events may be flexible, punctuality is expected for guided tours, and train departures.

Greetings – A polite “Bonjour” or “Bonsoir” with a slight nod is standard in casual settings. In many regions, two kisses on the cheek (la bise) are common among friends and family, but observe local cues.

Respect for Public Spaces – French people value calm and consideration in public areas. Speak at a moderate volume and follow local etiquette in restaurants, museums, and on public transport.

Tipping – Service charges are usually included. Leaving a small tip for exceptional service is appreciated but not mandatory.

Dress Code

France is known for its chic, smart-casual style, with an emphasis on elegance and practicality:

Casual & Comfortable – Daytime exploring calls for comfortable but stylish clothing. Think breathable fabrics, smart jeans, casual dresses, and practical walking shoes.

Dining Out – For upscale restaurants, a smart dress, blouse, or collared shirt with shoes is appropriate. Casual eateries accept everyday attire.

Religious or Cultural Sites – Modest clothing is recommended in churches or religious sites—cover shoulders and knees as a sign of respect. A scarf or light jacket can easily help with this.

Overall, aim for comfort with a polished appearance to match local expectations.

Responsible Dining

France emphasises seasonal, local ingredients, and sustainable practices:

• Choose dishes featuring regional produce, cheeses, and meats.
• Look for sustainably-sourced seafood certifications when ordering fish.
• Support local wines, craft beers, and spirits made with eco-conscious methods.
• Minimise food waste by ordering appropriately and taking leftovers home when possible.
• Use a reusable water bottle and avoid single-use plastics.

Following these tips lets you enjoy French cuisine while respecting the environment.

Tipping

A friendly reminder that tipping is not included in your package. Tipping is not mandatory but small gestures are always appreciated in France. The amount is entirely at your discretion; as a guideline, around €5 per person for a local guide is suggested.

Peak Travel Times

France is busiest during summer (June–August), when cities, beaches, and landmarks attract many tourists. Paris, Provence, and the French Riviera are particularly crowded.

For quieter travel with mild weather, spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) are ideal. Fewer crowds, comfortable temperatures, and beautiful scenery—like spring blossoms or autumn foliage—make for a more relaxed and cost-effective visit.

Safety and Security

France is generally safe, but it’s wise to stay alert and take standard precautions:

• Keep an eye on belongings in crowded areas and tourist spots to avoid petty theft.
• Use reputable taxis and transport options, especially at night.
• In rural or mountainous areas, check weather conditions before hiking or exploring.
• Ensure your travel insurance covers all destinations and activities on your trip.
• With these measures, France offers a secure and enjoyable travel experience.

Apps to Download

Useful apps for traveling in France include:

• Google Translate – Helpful for menus, signs, and labels.
• Google Maps – Download offline maps for navigation without wifi.
• SNCF Connect – The official app for France’s national rail network with real-time schedules and ticket bookings.
• Citymapper – Useful for navigating Paris and other major cities’ public transport.
• WhatsApp – Ideal for communicating with group members or local contacts.

Downloading these apps ahead of time will make your journey smoother and more enjoyable.

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. 

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!

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.

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. 

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.