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11 Day Budapest, Vienna & Prague by Rail |
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$599
Land Only
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$1299*
Air & Land
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Highlights |
Independent Package Includes
- Flights NYC-Budapest, Prague-NYC
Other departure cities available. Click on date of departure for selection and prices
- Airline fuel surcharges
- 9 nights accommodations in your choice of hotels
- 3 nights Budapest
- 3 nights Vienna
- 3 nights Prague
- Transportation between cities via First Class rail (Plan A or B) or Standard rail (Plans C or D) with reserved seats ▲
- Breakfast daily
▲ Upgrade to First Class rail is available for Plan C & D
Also Available
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Optionals |
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Book your Optional Tours before you travel and see more, save time, save money, and protect your investment. Tours purchased while traveling may cost an extra 10% or even more! Tours often sell out - avoid disappointment! Save your cash - many countries do not accept credit cards. Travel insurance only covers services purchased prior to departure.
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| Budapest by Night with Dinner (#8) 7:00 PM |
Day #2 |
01 Apr 2010 - 31 Oct 2010 $90
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Experience Budapest by night, the flood-lit "Paris of the East." Dine this evening in a traditional restaurant in the hills of Buda, and enjoy a 3-course meal with wine. After dinner, take a glimpse into the fascinating aural culture of Hungary with an entertaining folkloric show. Return to Budapest, admiring charming views of the city by night.
Departs at 7:00 p.m. Pick-up from hotel 30 minutes prior to departure time. Drop-off at your hotel, or Monte Carlo Budapest.
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| Budapest City Tour (#2) 10:00 AM |
Day #3 |
01 Apr 2010 - 31 Mar 2011 $37
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Today, enjoy a comprehensive city tour of Budapest. Beginning in Pest, view the Hungarian Parliament Building before crossing the Danube via the Margaret Bridge. The tour continues to the Royal Castle on the Buda side. Once there, visit the Fishermen's Bastion on Castle Hill and the 13th-century Matthias Coronation Church. Following a photo stop at the Citadel on Mount Gellert, which offers one of the most spectacular views of the city, cross the Elisabeth Bridge and drive toward Heroes' Square, the central site of the Millennium Memorial and the statesmen sculptures. Upon your return to the city center, enjoy views of the Opera House and St. Stephen's Basilica in passing.
Departs at 10:00 a.m. Pick-up from hotel 30 minutes prior to departure time. Drop-off in city center.
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| Szentendre Nostalgia (#6) 2:00 PM |
Day #3 |
01 Apr 2010 - 31 Oct 2010 $55
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Visit Szentendre, the colorful artists' village. Upon arrival, enjoy a leisurely walk through the Baroque city center and coffee and cake at the Confectionery Museum, followed by free time to shop in the charming boutiques or visit the Kovács Múzeum. Afterward, return by motor coach to Budapest.
Departs at 2:00 p.m. Pick-up from hotel 30 minutes prior to departure time. Tour ends at the pier in the city center.
*Please note, dependent on water levels, May 1 to September 30 departures, may return by boat.
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| Danube Bend Tour (#10) 10:00 AM |
Day #4 |
01 Apr 2010 - 31 Oct 2010 $80
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Today, journey into the history of Hungary on a tour of the famous Danube Bend. Visit the medieval town of Visegrad, home of the former royal residence of King Matthias Corvinus, for a spectacular view of the Danube Valley. Continue to Esztergom, one of the oldest towns in Hungary. Upon arrival, visit the Esztergom Basilica, the largest church in Hungary and current seat of the Catholic Church. The tour continues to the Baroque artists' village of Szentendre where you will enjoy a guided walking tour of the town. Afterwards, return to Budapest by boat on the Danube River (Return will be by motor coach in April and October), admiring a beautiful view of the Royal Castle en route.
Departs at 10:00 a.m. Pick-up from hotel 30 minutes prior to departure time. The tour ends at the pier in the city center.
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| Sounds of Budapest Cruise & Dinner (#9) 8:00 PM |
Day #4 |
01 Apr 2010 - 31 Oct 2010 $95
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Tonight, enjoy a romantic evening on the Danube River. While sailing, listen to the famous operettas and melodies of Strauss, Lehar and Kalman, as performed by members of the State Opera and Operetta-Theater. Along with the performance, enjoy a rich buffet-style dinner and illuminated views of Budapest city by night.
Departs at 8:00 p.m. Pick-up from hotel 30 minutes prior to departure time. Tour-ends at the pier in the city center.
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| Full Day Salzburg from Vienna (#9) 7:15 AM |
Day #6 |
01 Apr 2010 - 31 Oct 2010 $145
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Traveling for Mozart's town of birth, become acquainted with the beautiful Salzkammergut landscape, where the Emperor Franz Joseph and his family used to spend their holidays. Skirting Lake Fuschl and Lake Wolfgang, arrive in Salzburg where you will have time for lunch. This afternoon, enjoy a leisurely walk through the old city to see the sights of the Old Bishop's Seat, the Cathedral, the Festvall Hall, and St. Peter's Abbey Church and graveyard, where lies the tomb of Mozart's sister. The tour continues to Mozart's birthplace in the Getreidegasse, passing the famous horse-pond along the way. From the gardens of Mirabella Palace, as filmed in the "Sound of Music," enjoy charming views of the Hohensalzburg Fortress.
Departs at 7:15 a.m. Pick-up from hotel approximately 30-45 minutes prior to departure time. The tour concludes at the hotel.
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| Vienna by Night (#8) 7:15 PM |
Day #6 |
01 Apr 2010 - 28 Sep 2010 $54
05 Oct 2010 - 21 Dec 2010 $54
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Begin the evening with a drive along the famous Ringstrasse, the city's main boulevard. Along this drive you'll see many splendid buildings of the Austrian Baroque period, such as the Vienna State Opera House, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Natural History Museum and the Museumsquartier. Continue to the Danube Tower, which provides spectacular views of Vienna from its observation deck. Conclude the evening at a traditional Austrian wine tavern.
Departs at 7:15 p.m. Pick-up from hotel approximately 30-45 minutes prior to departure time. Drop-off in city center.
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| Vienna Woods & Mayerling Tour (#4) 9:45 AM |
Day #7 |
01 Apr 2010 - 30 Sep 2010 $65
01 Oct 2010 - 31 Mar 2011 $65
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Today you'll see the "Green Lungs" of Austria, the southern Vienna Woods. Venturing into a region of dense conifers, pines and firs, pass the Roman city of Baden, famous for its thermal springs. Continue through Helenental Valley to the former Mayerling hunting lodge, today a commemorative chapel, where Crown Prince Rudolph, together with Baroness Vetsera, died tragically in 1889. Visit the Cistercian Abbey of Heiligenkreuz with its medieval cloister and grave of the last Babenberger, the family that ruled before the Habsburgs. The tour continues to the Seegrotte, passing along the way the site where Franz Schubert composed "The Linden Tree." Here you will enjoy a relaxing boat ride on Europe's largest subterranean lake before returning to Vienna.
Departs at 9:45 a.m. Pick-up from hotel approximately 30-45 minutes prior to departure time. The tour concludes at the Vienna State Opera House.
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| Vienna City Tour & Schonbrunn (#1) 2:45 PM |
Day #7 |
01 Apr 2010 - 31 Oct 2010 $54
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Today's tour takes you into the cultural heart of Vienna with a drive along the famous Ringstrasse, the city's main boulevard. On this relaxing drive, you'll see many splendid buildings of the Austrian Baroque period, including the Vienna State Opera House, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Natural History Museum, the Museumsquartier, The Hofburg Imperial Palace, which formerly served as the winter residence of the Habsburg royal family, Parliament, City Hall and the Burgtheater, Europe's second-oldest operational theater after the Comédie Francaise. A visit to the beautiful staterooms of the UNESCO World Heritage Schönbrunn Palace is included as well. Afterward, return to the Vienna State Opera House, passing Belvedere Palace, the former summer residence of Prince Eugén, which houses the most precious Gustav Klimt collection in the world.
Departs at 2:45 p.m. Pick-up from hotel approximately 30-45 minutes prior to departure time. Drop-off in city center.
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| Viennese Serenade with dinner (#7) 7:15 PM |
Day #7 |
09 Apr 2010 - 30 Apr 2010 $98
01 May 2010 - 17 Oct 2010 $98
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Begin the evening with a drive along the famous Ringstrasse, Vienna's main boulevard, to the Viennese amusement park, the Prater. Upon arrival, enjoy a ride on the world-famous Risenrad (Giant Ferris Wheel) for scenic views of the city and park below. Afterwards, enjoy a special performance by members of the 1st Grinzinger Heurigenshow, as they sing and dance some of Vienna's most famous operettas and songs. Following the performance, enjoy an evening meal with wine. Please note that when the Giant Ferris Wheel (Risenrad) is closed during the winter season (October 20 - March 31), you will travel instead to Cobenzl Hill for a glass of sparkling wine.
Tour departs at 7:15 p.m. Pick-up from the hotel approximately 30-45 minutes prior to departure time. Drop-off in city center.
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| Folklore Dinner (#21) 7:00 PM |
Day #8 |
01 Apr 2010 - 31 Oct 2010 $73
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Tonight, enjoy an evening of Czech folklore music and dances at a lively, traditional Czech restaurant. The music and dances are melodic, beautiful, and full of energy. It has been an inspiration for whole generations of artists. Try delicious regional dishes and drinks as local performers present customary dances and songs in traditional dress. Food and drinks, all included in your package price. Experience an unforgettable evening.
Tour departs at 7:00 p.m. from Na Príkope, 23. Please arrive 15 minutes prior to departure. Drop-off at hotel.
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| Kutna Hora (#18) PM |
Day #9 |
01 Apr 2010 - 31 Oct 2010 $54
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This afternoon depart for Kutná Hora, a medieval center of silver-mining. The variety of Kutná Hora architectural monuments and its well preserved town center structure reflect its ancient fame and wealth. Begin with a stroll around Kutná Hora to visit the Gothic cathedral of St. Barbara and Italian Court. Admire the beautiful Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque burgher houses within the city center. Continue to Sedlec, where legend has it that a handful of earth from Christ's grave was brought to and scattered over the Ossuary, thus turning it into a pilgrimage site for believers from all over Central Europe. Visit the Ossuary chapel decorated by more than 40 000 human bones, including a chandelier and a crest of noble family Schwarzenberg.
Departs 1:00 p.m. Apr - Oct, 12:30 p.m. Nov - Mar from Na Príkope, 23. Please arrive 15 minutes prior to departure. Drop-off at Na Prikope 23.
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| Prague Panoramic (#2) 9:30 AM |
Day #9 |
01 Apr 2010 - 31 Oct 2010 $21
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This morning, enjoy an introduction to Prague, the famous "City of a Hundred Spires". From the comfort of a modern air-conditioned motor coach, view Old Town, Charles Bridge and Lesser Town while listening to commentary through headphones. Visit the St. Vitus Cathedral in Prague Castle independently. After walking around Prague Castle, continue again by bus through Old Town Square near Municipal House to return to Na Príkope 23, where the tour ends.
Departs at 9:30 a.m. from Na Prikope 23. Please arrive 15 minutes prior to departure. Drop off at Na Prikope 23.
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| Bohemian Crystal Factory (#17) AM |
Day #10 |
01 Apr 2010 - 31 Oct 2010 $50
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Today, learn more about one of Czech Republic's most famous exports, Bohemian crystal. This decorative glass made since the 13th century is mostly hand cut with intricate designs and features decorations such as hand painting, rhinestones or gold plating. Enjoy a visit to a crystal company's workshop to admire the craftsmen at work followed by free time to shop before returning to Prague.
Departs at 8:45 a.m. Apr -Oct; 9:45 a.m. Nov - Mar from Na Príkope, 23. Please arrive 15 minutes prior to departure. Drop-off at Na Prikope 23.
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| Prague Ghost Tour (#24) PM |
Day #10 |
01 Apr 2010 - 31 Oct 2010 $16
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Explore the darker side of Prague, walking down narrow lanes, twisting corridors, and dark alleys. The ancient structures, haunted churches and legendary theatres have birthed many of Hollywood's monsters. Mass executions, homicidal thieves, and gothic creatures have secrets that lie within these streets. Learn about the science behind the paranormal world, explore the legends of Prague and learn the secrets within the architecture.
Departs: 9:00 p.m. from NÁMESTÍ Franze Kafky, 7. Please arrive 15 minutes prior to departure. Tour ends in Old Town. Guide service on the route in English only.
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| Grand City Tour with Cruise (#3) 2:00 PM |
Day #10 |
01 Apr 2010 - 31 Oct 2010 $45
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This afternoon, travel by coach while learning the history of Prague and its famous neighborhoods (Old Town, New Town, Lesser Town). Continue by foot to view the Prague Castle complex and the many historical buildings therein. Afterwards, enjoy a relaxing boat tour that views Charles Bridge, St. Vitus' Cathedral, Petrin Hill and the National Theatre, Prague's main cultural attractions. Continue with a pleasant walk through the Jewish town to the Old Town Square where the tour ends.
Tour departs at 2:00 p.m. from Na Príkope, 23. Please arrive 15 minutes prior to departure. Drop-off at Old Town Square.
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Book your Optional Tours before you travel and see more, save time, save money, and protect your investment. Tours purchased while traveling may cost an extra 10% or even more! Tours often sell out - avoid disappointment! Save your cash - many countries do not accept credit cards. Travel insurance only covers services purchased prior to departure.
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Rates & Hotels |
Step 1: Select Your Choice of Hotel Plans Step 2: Click a Date to Book Online
OR: Click here to create your own flexible vacation
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*Not Included:
Airport taxes & fees, transfers, optional tours, and gratuities.
Additional Information:
Upgrade to First Class rail is available for Plan C & D.
Entry Requirements:
US citizens require a passport valid for six months beyond travel dates.
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| Although most of the planning and preparation is taken care of for you, there are still a few things you should know and some details you should take care of to ensure your comfort, safety and peace of mind. Please review the following information before your departure to ensure that any surprises along the way will only be pleasant ones. | |
| Passports and Visas | It is each traveler's responsibility to have a passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of departure and a visa if required. Please check the information at www.gate1travel.com/visas.aspx for the specific country/region you are visiting for more details. Passengers who are not U.S. citizens must check with the respective consulate or a visa agency to determine what personal identification is required. Passport applications are available at most U.S. Post Offices, as well as at regional Passport Agencies.
| | Trip Preparation | A little pre-planning can make your trip go a lot smoother. Several weeks before your trip, make a list of what you will need to take with you. Make sure your personal documents (passports, visas) are in order and that you have enough prescription medications to last through the trip. We suggest that you make photocopies of passports, visas, and any other important travel documents and pack them separately from the originals. Pack a list of medications including dosage and generic names. If you lose the originals while traveling, you'll have copies for easier reporting and replacement. We recommend that you pack a portable alarm clock.
| | Health Information | Check with your personal physician for the latest overseas travel health information, or contact the Center for Disease Control’s travelers’ hotline at 404-332-4559, web site www.cdc.gov.
| Czech Republic: Health Insurance - There is a law requiring tourists traveling to the Czech Republic to have insurance with coverage of $35,000. However this law is not really enforced in practice. A health insurance card or an internationally recognized credit card with health insurance included will generally be accepted as proof of insurance to enter the Republic
| | Climate & Clothing | Czech Republic - Spring and Autumn: 25–70ºF; Summer: 50–85ºF; Winter: 10–35ºF. Temperatures vary significantly within the country, with Brno and Ostrava having substantially more extreme temperature ranges compared to Prague and Plzen. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops).
Czech Republic Average Temperatures: www.gate1travel.com/weather/europe/default.aspx#central-europe-weather.
| Austria - Spring and Autumn: 45–60ºF; Summer: 70–80ºF; Winter: 30–40ºF. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops).
Austria Average Temperatures: www.gate1travel.com/weather/europe/default.aspx#austria-germany-europe-weather
| Hungary - Spring and Autumn: 45–60ºF; Summer: 60–80ºF; Winter: 25–35ºF. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops). In summer, bring a hat and sunscreen.
Hungary Average Temperatures: http://www.gate1travel.com/weather/europe/default.aspx#central-europe-weather
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| E-Tickets & Check-In Procedures |
Please review the flight itinerary included in these documents. Print and carry a copy of the air itinerary which contains the record locator (airline reservation number) and e-ticket number(s). At check-in, be prepared to provide your government issued identification (valid passport) and your e-ticket itinerary/ ticket numbers to the agent in order to receive your boarding pass.
An e-ticket (electronic ticket) represents the purchase of an airline seat. This form of ticket has replaced almost all formerly provided paper tickets. The e-ticket exists only as a digital record in the airlines computers. In most cases your reservation will be confirmed solely on the basis of your government-issued identification. However it may still be necessary to present the e-ticket itinerary which contains your specific reservation code and ticket number(s). Once confirmed, your luggage will be checked-in and a boarding pass provided.
Advance online check-in is available on some airlines. If available, you may enter your airline confirmation number at the airline's website, and print the boarding pass on your home printer within twenty-four hours of departure. Airlines without advance online check-in require you to present your identification and e-ticket numbers at the airport self-service kiosk or check-in counter.
When e-tickets cannot be issued, you will receive paper tickets.
If your tour program includes foreign domestic flights, and those tickets are not included together with the e-ticket itinerary in these documents, a separate voucher(s) confirming those services will be included. You will receive those tickets at your destination from a Gate 1 representative.
| | Airline Flights | Please check in at least three hours prior to the scheduled departure time to allow for security steps. Passengers connecting from another point within the USA may check their luggage through to their final destination, and although problems with lost luggage have been minimal, it is a possibility. Certain carriers do not allow baggage “interlining,” and luggage must be checked separately for each flight. If you are connecting from a domestic flight which is delayed for any reason, causing you to miss your international flight, you must ask the airline for assistance in getting you to your destination. Since all airline tickets are issued on special fares which carry restrictions and penalties if changed, you must have the airlines responsible make alternate arrangements on your behalf as Gate 1 has no authority or control over airline activities and policies. Do not leave the airline check-in desk until an alternative itinerary has been confirmed for you.
Flight schedule changes are common and may occur anytime until departure. Therefore it is the responsibility of each passenger to reconfirm their flights 72 hours prior to departure for all flights.
| | Airline Luggage Restrictions | Most international airlines are consistent with regard to the number and weight of the pieces you may check and bring onboard. Domestic carriers however, typically on small aircraft, differ. Therefore, we suggest that you check in advance if you are concerned about size or weight restrictions. Many airlines have begun to apply charges for checked bags. Please contact your airline or refer to its website for detailed information regarding your airline's checked baggage policies. Airline policies vary and may change at any time. Gate 1 Travel is not responsible for any excess luggage/ weight charges levied by an airline.
| | Airline Seats | Airline seats are confirmed whenever possible. Some airlines and/or fare types do not allow for pre-seating and require this be done at airport check-in only. Even when seats are pre-assigned however, we recommend that you contact the carrier one to two weeks prior to departure to reconfirm your seats. In many cases there are equipment changes after your initial booking which can cause airplane seating reconfiguration.
| | Airline Tickets | Most airline tickets are issued using special fares which cannot be changed or canceled without incurring additional cost. Should you lose or misplace your tickets while traveling, you should immediately notify the airline. In most cases they will have you complete a Lost Ticket Indemnity Form, and for a fee, issue replacement tickets.
| | Code-share Flights | Many airlines participate in alliances and special agreements with other airlines which permit passengers to travel from one point to another using more than one carrier. While your ticket may indicate that you are flying with one carrier (eg: Delta), you may find that you are actually seated in a plane belonging to another carrier (eg: Alitalia). Please review your airline itinerary carefully to determine which airline you should go to for check-in; if your flight is operated by a carrier other than the primary airline indicated on the itinerary, your itinerary will state "Flight Operated by (Airline)." If you have any concerns regarding which airline to check-in with, you may contact the airline directly or Gate 1 Travel for clarification.
| | Luggage | All Gate 1 tour packages allow one piece of luggage per person, plus carry-on bag. Additional baggage will be subject to airline handling charges of up to $100 per piece. As Gate 1 will not be responsible for loss or damage to luggage and personal belongings, you MUST report any loss or damage immediately at the time of the incident and obtain a written report from the local authority for submission to your insurance provider. If your luggage is lost or damaged by the airlines, a baggage claim form MUST be filed with the carrier before leaving the airport. See www.gate1travel.com/luggage.aspx for Important Baggage Information for U.S. Travelers.
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| Arrival Procedures | Upon arrival, please complete immigration formalities and claim your luggage. If your program includes airport arrival transfers, check your voucher for specific instructions, as they vary with every destination. In most cases, you will be met after passing through Customs by the local representative who will be holding a Gate 1 Travel sign and/or a sign with your name on it. In some instances you will be instructed to walk a short distance to a transportation counter. The company's name and location will be printed on your voucher. If for any reason you do not connect with the Gate 1 transfer personnel, go to the Tourist Information Desk and ask them to page the Gate 1 Travel representative or phone the number on your voucher.
| | What To Do When Your Flight Is Delayed | Airlines do not share flight manifest information. Therefore, the only way we may learn of a delay or schedule change while you are traveling is from you, the traveler. The sooner you are able to contact one of our offices, overseas or in the USA, the better we can respond. Gate 1 Travel is only able to guarantee pre-reserved arrival transfers for up to one hour from the scheduled time, no matter the cause. In case you are delayed for any reason, and are unable to follow the instructions on your voucher, please make independent transfer arrangements and retain your receipts. Unused tour services, including transfers and hotel nights are not refundable. Upon your return home you will need to contact your airline and/or insurance carrier to investigate the possibility of reimbursement for any unused tour services.
| | Departure Procedures | If your program includes departure transfers, instructions will be stated on your voucher or provided locally.
| | Transfers | Due to local traffic and other extenuating circumstances, we ask that you allow 30 minutes from your scheduled transfer time for our representative to arrive. This includes hotel, airport and cruise transfers. Such possible delays are taken into consideration in scheduling transfers and you should therefore have no concerns about arriving late for your tour, flight or cruise. For transfers from a hotel, let the hotel reception desk or concierge know that you are waiting for a transfer. In the case of a missed transfer, reimbursement for your out-of-pocket expenses will be considered provided you obtain a written statement from the hotel's front desk verifying the length of time you waited, and the time you left the hotel, and a receipt for your transportation with time and date.
Escorted tour programs include transfers, providing you have purchased airfare from Gate 1 to arrive and depart on the scheduled tour dates. If you are traveling independently, you may purchase the transfers from Gate 1 or contract your own method of transportation to the hotel or cruise ship. The cost of a transfer will generally be more expensive than hiring a taxi as the pre-arranged transfer necessarily includes round trip service, or a 'dead-leg'. Additionally the driver may have to wait at the collection point for up to an hour.
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| Hotels | Gate 1 Travel has carefully selected each hotel based on overall quality, location, price, food, service, and cleanliness. All rooms are standard rooms with two single beds and private facilities, unless you have specifically requested and paid for an upgrade. Room selection is strictly at the discretion of the hotel management. We reserve the right to make hotel substitutions with those of equal standard.
| | Hotel Check-in/ Check-out | Check-in time is usually 4pm or later. Check-out time is 12 noon. If you will be arriving early in the day or departing in the evening, hotels will usually allow you to store your luggage in their luggage room. Ask at the front desk if the hotel can check you in earlier, or let you stay later.
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| Eco & Sustainable Tourism | We support global efforts to create a more eco-friendly world, intolerant of any forms of cruelty, abuse and intentional environmental destruction. To that end we ask that our clients maintain a watchful eye as they travel, and report any abuses they may encounter. One of the many benefits of tourism is the shared cultural knowledge and ultimate elimination of negative behavior through education. We rely on your good feedback to enable this element of symbiosis. As you travel to and learn about foreign cultures, we ask first and foremost that you practice tolerance and respect for local customs.
| | Land Only Passengers (Escorted Tours) | Your tour manager will contact you after your arrival at your hotel. Passengers who have not purchased arrival transfers from Gate 1 Travel should proceed directly to the hotel for checkin. The details of the hotel can be found in your documents.
| | Shopping | Shopping in a foreign country can be a wonderful experience. We do include a few stops at recommended popular shops on every escorted tour, intended to enhance your cultural experience. As you explore the country independently, you may find fantastic, one-of-a-kind merchandise. You may get terrific bargains. However, we advise you to exercise care and common sense when making any purchase. Always get a formal receipt. And remember that, just like in this country, if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is!
| Czech Republic - Some favorite souvenirs include Bohemian glass or crystal, porcelain, pottery, exquisite Christmas ornaments, and fine lace and embroidery work. Craftsmen and artisans often form associations and run their own retail stores, where you can often find high quality workmanship. Jewelry incorporating semi-precious stones, especially garnets, is another Czech specialty.
| Austria - Austria is renowned for its high quality winter sports equipment, wine, as well as an assortment of top-of-the-line, handcrafted items, including crystal, wood carvings, textiles, and fine leather. If you are traveling during the Christmas season, the Christmas markets are a must-see, not only for the goods but also for the hot mulled wine and unforgettable atmosphere.
| Hungary - Hungary is renowned for its food and beverage products, especially fine red paprika, brandies, and Unicum liqueur. Additionally, traditional items such as ceramics, embroidery work, painted eggs, crystal ware, and costumed dolls are highly popular.
| | Currency | We suggest getting a small amount of currency for the first country you're visiting before you leave the U.S. It is a good idea to carry a chart with you to help you convert U.S. dollars to the local currency. It's also a good idea not to carry too much money. Many countries have ATM machines that accept most U.S. ATM cards, but be sure you know your ATM password in numbers-the keypads on foreign ATMs don't always have letters. ATM machines will only dispense cash in local currency. Check with respective consulates to learn current currency allowances and requirements. Use your credit card whenever possible. Should you decide to carry cash or travelers checks, exchange them at banks where the rate is more favorable than at hotels or exchange bureaus. Please note that many banks and most vendors will not accept or exchange $100 bills. We suggest to carry $20 bills or smaller.
| Czech Republic - The Czech Koruna is the currency of the Czech Republic.
| Austria - The Euro is the currency of Austria.
| Hungary - The Hungarian Forint is the currency of Hungary.
| | Purchasing Tours Locally | On escorted tours, the guides will generally sell optional tours to passengers who have not pre-purchased them. Payment can be made by cash or credit card, unless otherwise noted below. This does not apply to Independent packages. Please see Gate 1 Terms & Conditions for more information. http://www.gate1travel.com/terms.aspx#optional
| | Credit Cards | While credit cards are accepted in most destinations, it is advisable to carry local currency. Inform your credit card company that you are traveling to avoid your card being blocked for security reasons.
| | Gratuities | This is a matter of personal discretion. You may use the following as a guideline:
- Tour escort (Coordinator; may or may not act as a guide):
$6 or $7 per person per day
- Driver (Provides chauffeur services and limited assistance with luggage):
$3 per person per day
- Local Guide (Offers in-depth information at specific locations. There may be one or many guides along a tour program):
$2 per person per half day of sightseeing (2-3 hours)
- River Cruises:
$6 or $7 per person per day as indicated by each cruise line (see details regarding European River Cruises)
- Hotel Porter:
$1 per bag per person
- Wait staff:
$1.50 per person (lunch or dinner)
Tipping is considered by many locals to be a part of their normal remuneration and some may approach you for additional "compensation." There is no need to be intimidated by the request, nor should you feel pressured to pay more than recommended. If you become uncomfortable by any behavior you encounter, please advise your tour escort or phone our local office. Numbers have been provided in your documents for your convenience.
| Czech Republic - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. Restaurant bills often include a service charge. Taxi drivers do not expect gratuities and rounding up the fare is usually sufficient.
| Austria - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. Restaurant bills often include a service charge.
| Hungary - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists.
| | Your Safety is Very Important | Every effort has been taken by Gate 1 Travel to ensure your safety. However, it is important that you do not allow your common sense to take a vacation while you're on your trip. Be aware of potentially dangerous places and situations as you would at home. Avoid wearing expensive jewelry and carry your valuables concealed in inside pockets or hidden pouches. Don't put all your valuables (money, credit cards, passports, etc.) in the same place. (In case that one wallet is stolen, you should have other valuables and identification in another safe place.) Don't leave valuables laying loose in your room-use the hotel safe. Keep copies of your passports, credit card numbers and travelers checks numbers in the hotel safe. If you've purchased an escorted tour program, your travel documents will include telephone numbers of local Gate 1 Travel representatives who will do their utmost to assist you in the event of an emergency. The numbers are printed on your Gate 1 Travel vouchers. Please copy the numbers. Once you relinquish the voucher, you will not have this information. Passengers traveling independently should employ the services of hotel concierges and local authorities.
| | Local Emergency Phone Numbers | Czech Republic
- Ambulance/Medical: 112 or 155
- Fire: 150
- Police: 158
| Austria
- General Emergency: 112 or 122
| Hungary
| | Languages | Czech Republic - Czech is the local language. German and limited English are generally spoken in tourist areas.
| Austria - German is the local language. English is generally spoken in tourist areas.
| Hungary - Hungarian is the local language. Limited English is generally spoken in tourist areas.
| | Electricity | Please note: The U.S. uses 120 volts and you can purchase a converter and transformer at most hardware stores for your 120V appliances.
| Czech Republic - The voltage used is 220 volts.
| Austria - The voltage used is 230 volts.
| Hungary - The voltage used is 220 volts.
| | Code of Conduct | Czech Republic - Dress should be conservatively casual. Normal courtesies should be observed. Please note that punctuality is important, and if you arrive late at the theater or opera, you may be denied entrance.
| Austria - Shaking hands is a customary greeting and normal courtesies should be observed. First names are not used when being introduced, but after a relationship exists, using first names is appropriate. Politeness is highly valued, and saying hello and goodbye is important even in shops and restaurants.
| Hungary - Shaking hands is a standard form of greeting. Normal courtesies should be observed and when addressing a newly met acquaintance, both first and last name should be used. Conservative casual dress is appropriate. Smoking is prohibited on public transport and in public buildings.
| | Holidays - Czech Republic |
| Holidays 2010 |
| Jan 1 |
New Year's Day |
Apr 2 |
Good Friday |
Apr 4 |
Easter |
Apr 5 |
Easter Monday |
May 1 |
Labor Day |
May 8 |
Liberation Day |
| May 24 |
Whit Monday |
| Jul 5 |
Saints Cyril and Methodius |
Jul 6 |
Jan Hus Day |
Sep 28 |
St. Wenceslas Day (Czech Statehood Day) |
Oct 28 |
Independent Czechoslovak Day |
Nov 17 |
Struggle for Freedom and Democracy Day |
Dec 24 |
Christmas Eve |
Dec 25 |
Christmas Day |
Dec 26 |
St. Stephen's Day |
Dec 31 |
New Year's Eve |
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| | Holidays - Austria |
| Holidays 2010 |
| Jan 1 |
New Year's Day |
Jan 6 |
Feast of the Epiphany |
Apr 2 |
Good Friday |
Apr 4 |
Easter |
Apr 5 |
Easter Monday |
May 1 |
Labor Day |
May 13 |
Ascension Day |
May 24 |
Whit Monday |
| Jun 3 |
Corpus Christi |
Aug 15 |
Feast of the Assumption |
| Oct 26 |
National Day |
Nov 1 |
All Saints' Day |
Dec 8 |
Immaculate Conception |
Dec 24 |
Christmas Eve |
Dec 25 |
Christmas Day |
Dec 26 |
Boxing Day |
Dec 31 |
New Year's Eve |
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| | Holidays - Hungary |
| Holidays 2010 |
| Jan 1 |
New Year's Day |
| Mar 15 |
National Day (1848 Revolution Memorial Day) |
Apr 4 |
Easter |
Apr 5 |
Easter Monday |
May 1 |
Labor Day |
May 24 |
Whit Monday |
Aug 20 |
St. Stephen's Day |
Oct 23 |
National Day (1956 Revolution Memorial Day) |
Nov 1 |
All Saints' Day |
Dec 24 |
Christmas Eve |
Dec 25 |
Christmas Day |
Dec 26 |
Boxing Day |
Dec 31 |
New Year's Eve |
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| | Food and Meals | As specified in each itinerary. Meals are based on the hotel's or restaurant's buffet or set menu. In general, beverages are not included, unless specifically stated. Although Gate 1 cannot make guarantees, every effort will be made to honor special dietary requests submitted in writing at least 72 hours prior to departure to info@gate1travel.com.
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