Highlights | Escorted Package Includes - Flights NYC-Delhi, Mumbai-NYC
- Airline taxes & fuel surcharges
- Intra-flights
- 14 nights First Class accommodations
- All transfers
- 21 meals: 14 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 5 dinners
- Sightseeing per itinerary in modern air-conditioned motor coach
- Services of English-speaking tour manager throughout
- Entrance fees per itinerary
Special Features - Taj Mahal
- Elephant-back ride to Amber Fort
- Ranthambore Jungle Safari Tours
Also Available
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Itinerary |  DAY 1, Tuesday - Depart the USA
Depart the USA for India. Your flight includes meals, drinks, and in-flight entertainment for your journey
DAY 2, Wednesday - Arrive in Delhi
Arrive in Delhi and transfer to your hotel. Balance of the day at leisure
Overnight: Delhi DAY 3, Thursday - Old & New Delhi City Tour
This morning, starts with an orientation meeting with your Tour Manager. Later this morning, enjoy a tour of Old Delhi, an ancient historical city with more than 60,000 identifiable monuments. Visit the Memorial of Mahatma Gandhi, the Jama Masjid, India's largest mosque, and the famous Red Fort. Enjoy a rickshaw ride around Old Delhi. This afternoon, tour New Delhi. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Qutab Minar, the world's tallest brick minaret (spire) and the 20th-century Birla Temple, which honors the Hindu goddess of wealth. Drive past India Gate, the former Viceroy's Palace, and the Indian Parliament House and Presidential Palace
Overnight: Delhi
Meals: Breakfast DAY 4, Friday - Travel to Agra
This morning, travel to the medieval city of Agra. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy the balance of the day to explore Agra on your own. This evening, enjoy dinner at your hotel
Overnight: Agra
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner DAY 5, Saturday - Taj Mahal & Agra Fort Tour
This morning, visit the Taj Mahal, built by Emperor Shah Jahan as a mausoleum for his beloved Queen Mumtaj Mahal. This monumental construction, which took 22 years to complete (1631-53), is most famous for its imposing white-marble dome, and is considered the finest example of Mughal architecture in the world. Later enjoy an afternoon visit to Agra Fort, the original red sandstone fort built by Moghul Emperor Akbar in 1565. The Fort's maze of courtyards, marble mosque, and lavish private chambers reflect the grandeur of the Mughal Empire. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure
Overnight: Agra
Optional: Dinner in a Local Restaurant with Magic Show
Meals: Breakfast DAY 6, Sunday - Travel to Jaipur via Fatehpur Sikri
Travel to Jaipur via the deserted city of Fatehpur Sikri. Here you will view the Bulund Darwaza, which is said to be the tallest gateway in the world. Explore the well-preserved buildings of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, including the Panch Mahal Palace and the white marble tomb of the famous Sufi saint - Shaik Salim Chishti. Continue to Jaipur, the famed Pink City of India. The entire city was painted its unique pink color in 1876 to celebrate the visiting Prince of Wales. While the color pink was originally chosen to mimic the red sandstone used prominently in Mughal architecture, it has come to represent the welcoming hospitality of Jaipur. Enjoy the balance of the day exploring Jaipur on your own. For a more lively scene, independently visit the city's colorful bazaar, filled with vendors selling everything from sacks of spices to personal electronics and flowers
Overnight: Jaipur
Optional: Dinner in a Local Restaurant with Cultural Show
Meals: Breakfast DAY 7, Monday - Elephant Ride to Amber Fort & Jaipur City Tour
This morning's excursion takes you to the 16th century Amber Fort. Ascend the hill to the fort on the back of an elephant and admire views of Jaipur's original city walls and the Maotha Lake below. In the afternoon, tour Jaipur, including visits to the observatory of Maharaja Jaisingh and the museum at the Maharaja City Palace. Drive past the 18th -century Hawa Mahal ("Palace of Winds"), which has a streetside facade of 953 small windows designed to circulate wind throughout the palace, thus giving the palace its name
Overnight: Jaipur
Meals: Breakfast DAY 8, Tuesday - Travel to Ranthambore
After breakfast travel to Ranthamore National Park. Upon arrival, check in to the hotel and enjoy lunch and the balance of the day leisure. Dinner will be served this evening in the hotel
Overnight: Ranthambore
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner DAY 9, Wednesday - Ranthambore Jungle Safari Tours
Early morning, wild animal sanctuary by Canter vehicle. Here you will have the opportunity to see a variety of animals, such as tigers, panthers, leopards, spotted and barking deer, wild boar, antelopes and birds. Enjoy lunch at the hotel before returning back to the jungle for an evening safari tour
Overnight: Ranthambore
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner DAY 10, Thursday - Travel to Kota
After breakfast drive to Kota. Upon arrival check in to your hotel. Later this afternoon, proceed for Kota city tour. Visit the City Fort Palace and Museum, This evening enjoy dinner in the hotel
Overnight: Kota
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner DAY 11, Friday - Travel to Udaipur via Chittaurgarh
This morning travel to Udaipur via the historical city of Chittaurgarh. Upon arrival, check into the hotel and enjoy the balance of the day at leisure
Overnight: Udaipur
Meals: Breakfast DAY 12, Saturday - Udaipur City Tour
This morning enjoy a guided city tour of Udaipur that visits the City Palace, Jagdish Temple, and Saheliyon ki Bari. Afternoon at leisure. This evening enjoy a boat ride on Lake Pichola
Overnight: Udaipur
Meals: Breakfast DAY 13, Sunday - Flight to Mumbai
After an early breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Mumbai. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. This afternoon, enjoy a guided, city tour of Mumbai. Visit includes Dhobi Ghat, Jain Temple, Mani Bhawan, Gate of India and a drive through colonial Mumbai. This evening enjoy a farewell dinner in your hotel
Overnight: Mumbai
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner Day 14, Monday - Flight to Goa
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for an afternoon flight to Goa. Ruled by the Portuguese for over 450 years, the Portuguese-influenced state is renowned for its world heritage architecture, places of worship, and beaches. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. You may choose to spend the afternoon in Panjim, the state capital of Goa. Panjim is a charming city on the left bank of the Mandovi River that has beautiful Latin-styled red-tiled roofed houses, well laid gardens, cobbled streets, statues, and avenues lined with trees. Visit the heart of the city at Church Square, Adilshahi Palace, Campal - a picturesque riverside boulevard, or one of the numerous cafes
Overnight: Goa
Meals: Breakfast Day 15, Monday - Full Day in Goa
Begin the day with breakfast at the hotel, followed by a half day city tour of Goa. Visit the expansive old Portuguese Fort Aguada with its 4-storey lighthouse, the oldest of its kind in Asia, Dona Paula, and the notable Churches in Old Goa - a UNESCO Word Heritage Site, and Panjim city. The rest of the day is at leisure. You may choose to visit one of Goa's many beaches, such as Colva Beach, or head to the commercial capital of Margao to visit its grand colonial mansions, the 'Closed' Market, municipal building and garden, or one of the numerous churches and temples
Overnight: Goa
Meals: Breakfast Day 16, Wednesday - Flight to Mumbai/USA
Enjoy the morning at leisure. You may choose to visit one of Goa's museums, such as the Goa State Museum, which is well known for its collection of Hindu and Jain artifacts and scriptures, the Naval Aviation Museum – the only one of its kind in India, or the Wax Museum in Old Goa. Later this afternoon, transfer to the airport for your flight to Mumbai. You will arrive in time to connect for your departure flight back to New York
Meals: Breakfast DAY 17, Thursday - Arrive USA
Arrive USA
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| | Gate 1 itineraries may contain suggestions for activities for your leisure time; these suggestions do not constitute a recommendation nor an endorsement of any specific service provider and the decision to participate in any such activities should be made independently. |
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Optionals | 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. | Dinner at Local Agra Restaurant with Magic Show | Day #5 |
01 Oct 2011 - 31 May 2012 $29
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Tonight, see things you won't believe with your own eyes before being treated to the local flavors of Agra cuisine.
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| Dinner at Local Jaipur Restaurant with Cultural Show | Day #6 |
01 Oct 2011 - 31 May 2012 $29
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Enjoy the local flavors of a neighborhood restaurant. During or after your dinner, you will be entertained by performers, in their traditional attire, as they re-enact stories of a time past with dance and music. Transfers to and from the venue are included.
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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. |
Rates & Hotels | Step 1: Select Your Featured Hotels Step 2: Click a Date to Book Online
OR: Click here to create your own flexible vacation |
*Not Included:
Optional tours and gratuities.
Additional Information:
Package is based on blocked Air India flights, which include Mumbai - Goa - Mumbai. This package may only be purchased with the block airfare.
Hotel rooms in India cannot comfortably accommodate 3 adults; therefore, a double, plus a single room configuration should be purchased.
Entry Requirements:
Passengers traveling abroad require a passport valid for six months beyond their travel dates. All travelers are responsible to check if a visa is required for all countries on their itinerary. For visa information,
check our Visas page.
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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. | Traveling to India - Traveling to India should be a rewarding and exciting experience. To improve your experience, it is helpful to understand the unique country that is India. While it may be known for high-tech entrepreneurs and Bollywood films, India is still a developing country with over 450 million people that eke out a meager existence on less than $1 per day. Based on the World Bank's figures, more than one third of the world's poor live in India. Many Western visitors are unprepared for the level poverty that they may witness, as they venture to India. As a country of over 1 billion citizens, the cities, which were built to hold a fraction of their current population, are often crowded, noisy, and dirty. Despite these realities, traveling to India offers many rewards and we are pleased to introduce you to the people, history, and culture of this incredible country.
| | 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. IMPORTANT: Passengers who are not U.S. citizens must check with the respective consulate or a visa agency to determine what personal identification is required. Passengers who enter, leave and then re-enter the same country on their itinerary should check if they require a double-entry visa. Passport applications are available at most U.S. Post Offices, as well as at regional Passport Agencies.
It is strongly recommended that passengers apply for visas before traveling, even where it may be possible to apply locally. Applying for a visa locally can be a lengthy process.
| Entry Requirements:
US citizens require a passport valid for six months beyond travel dates.
| | 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.
| | Making Telephone Calls from One Country to Another | When dialing a number from one country to another, you should proceed as follows: dial your country's Exit Code + destination Country Code + Phone Number.
For most countries, the exit code is 00. Exceptions include the USA and Canada (011), Hong Kong and Cambodia (001), Australia (0011), and Russia (8 Pause 10*). For Brazil, please consult with the local telephone company. If the international number you wish to call starts with a 0 (zero), you must drop this starting digit when dialing the number.
| | 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 800-232-4636, web site www.cdc.gov.
| Notice on Aircraft Cabin Insecticide Treatment - Please note that some countries may require aircraft cabin insecticide treatment for in-bound foreign flights. A list of such countries is available at:
http://ostpxweb.dot.gov/policy/safetyenergyenv/disinsection.htm.
| India and Nepal - No inoculations are required. However, some inoculations are recommended. Please consult your physician before traveling to India. Also, please be aware that authentic Indian cuisine can be difficult to digest for those who are not accustomed to it.
| | Climate & Clothing | India and Nepal - 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).
India has three seasons. November through March is generally pleasant, with warm, sunny days. It is hot in May and June. Monsoon season usually begins around June on the west coast and slightly later elsewhere. Southern India receives rainfall between mid-October and December. Nepal has four seasons: Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
India Average Temperatures: http://www.gate1travel.com/weather/asia-pacific/#india-nepal-weather
Nepal Average Temperatures: http://www.gate1travel.com/weather/asia-pacific/#india-nepal-weather
| | Book & Film Recommendations | Many of our guests enjoy reading about their destination - either in advance of their trip or while traveling - as a way of adding context to their visit. Whether reading a traditional guide book, learning about the history and culture, or simply enjoying a fictional novel set in the destination, a good book can add greatly to your experience. Similarly, a good movie set in your destination helps set the mood before you travel. We asked our Tour Managers and staff to recommend books and films which past guests may have enjoyed. The following does not constitute an endorsement of any authors, books or films listed, it is merely a collection of guests’ recommendations.
| INDIA: Books
The Holy Cow and Other India Stories by Tarun Chopra
A Princess Remembers by Gayatri Devi
The Last Mughal by Willam Dalrymple
The Discovery Of India by Jawaharlal Nehru
No Full Stops in India by Mark Tully
City of Djinns by William Dalrymple
Freedom at Midnight by Dominique Lapierre and Larry Collins
Beneath a Marble Sky by John Shors
India: An Introduction by Khushwant Singh
Train to Pakistan by Khushwant Singh
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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.
If your flight itinerary displays a flight as “Operated By” another carrier, you should check-in at the desk of the “Operated By” airline. When you arrive at the airport, check the airport monitors for updated check-in desk listings.
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 or Flight Ticket 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. Many airlines do not permit check-in less than one hour prior to the scheduled departure time. 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.
Passengers are responsible to reconfirm their flights 72 hours prior to departure. Passengers are also recommended to reconfirm their flight schedule, seat assignments, special meal requests and frequent flier numbers, as applicable. In the event of an airline schedule change, Gate 1 will make every effort to inform passengers of the schedule change and new flight schedule prior to departure. Gate 1 is not responsible for schedule changes including, when applicable, changes in routing and/or the number of stops in the itinerary. Gate 1 is unable to provide compensation for schedule changes or cancellations implemented by an airline. In the event of any change in flight itinerary made directly between passengers and their airline, it is the passengers' responsibility to advise Gate 1 of amended flight details in writing to service@gate1travel.com. Gate 1 cannot be held responsible for land services, including arrival and/or departure transfers, if flights are changed without its knowledge.
| | 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, both inside and outside of the USA, typically on small aircraft, may differ. Therefore, we suggest that you check in advance if you are concerned about size or weight restrictions of hand and/or checked luggage. Most airlines apply charges for checked bags. For detailed information regarding your airline's checked baggage policies please visit http://www.gate1travel.com/baggagefees.aspx. 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.
| | Frequent Flier Programs | Passengers are responsible to contact their airline directly regarding mileage eligibility and accrual. Airline frequent flier programs determine whether to award miles in part or total based on their own rules which are updated frequently. Some discounted or promotional airfares are not eligible for mileage accrual. Gate 1 Travel will record frequent flier numbers when provided by the passenger prior to travel documents being issued. However, the addition of frequent flier numbers to airline records does not guarantee mileage eligibility which is at the sole discretion of each airline.
| | 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 land tour packages allow one piece of luggage per person, plus carry-on bag. Please refer to “Airline Luggage Restrictions” for guidance regarding airline policies and charges for checked bags. 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 is more expensive than hiring a taxi, as a Gate 1 transfer necessarily includes round trip service, or 'dead-leg'. Often the places of call (airports, seaports, hotels) demand entrance and parking fees, where drivers may have to wait for up to an hour. Passengers comfortable hiring a taxi on their own and do not require assistance will save money
| | About Your Escorted Tour Participants in India | Please note that the number of participants may vary during your tour as some travelers may depart at different points in the itinerary. Some participants will continue and end their trip in Mumbai while others will first travel to Goa before reaching Mumbai. After your arrival, you will be invited to join a welcome orientation with your Tour Manager and will meet your tour companions at that time.
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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.
| India Hotels - Passports - You may be required to have a copy of your passport information, upon arrival, at each of the hotels. This is required for security reasons. To expedite this process it is good to be prepared with copies in advance of arrival.
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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 | Most people enjoy bringing home at least one souvenir from the countries they visit. However, some find any amount of shopping to be too much while others never find enough opportunities.
We have built into our Escorted itineraries a few shopping stops at recommended spots. These stops are designed to enhance your experience by providing an opportunity to see first-hand quality locally-crafted merchandise which you may not be able to find alone. Shops are checked to ensure the quality and authenticity of the products they offer, and we limit guides from visiting other locations. In some cases, we plan these stops to provide an opportunity to use clean bathrooms and to stretch your legs.
While shopping independently, 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!
About Tax-Free Shopping
Tax-Free Shopping (TFS) allows shoppers to reclaim the VAT (Value-Added Tax) or GST (Goods and Services Tax) they have paid on their shopping in some foreign countries. Currently, about 50 countries allow foreign visitors to have their taxes reimbursed. TFS is subject to national regulations such as minimum spend and restrictions on the types of products on which it can be claimed. TSF is currently available in Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Indonesia, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Korea, Latvia, Lebanon, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Mexico, Morocco, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Russian Federation, Singapore, Slovenia, Slovakia, Spain, South Africa, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Turkey and the United Kingdom. Eligible countries and their specific regulations are subject to change at any time including the % of VAT which is reclaimable and the minimum purchase amount restriction. When planning to shop in a country with Tax-Free Shopping and to reclaim VAT/GST taxes, we recommend that you check the current regulations prior to completing your purchase. In many cases, stores will display signage such as “VAT Refunds for Tourists.” Normally, you will need to present your passport and receive a VAT Refund Application form(s) from the store along with an explanation of how to claim your refund. Sometimes this is completed at the airport upon departure or later via mail from your home. Service fees may apply. Alternatively, you may choose to work with a fee-based VAT Refund Service.
| India and Nepal - Local handicrafts, silks, and replicas of ancient statues and artifacts are among the most popular items.
| | 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.
| India and Nepal - The Indian Rupee is the currency of India. The Nepalese Rupee is the currency of Nepal.
It is recommended to carry cash in small denominations in local currency or in US $1 bills to make tipping and minor expenses easier.
| | 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.
Most US-issued credit cards rely on magnetic-strip technology rather than embedded microprocessor chips which are increasingly common overseas. These “chip-and-PIN” cards require users to punch in a personal identification number (PIN) instead of signing for a purchase. For example, many automated ticket kiosks, such as those commonly found at train stations, gas pumps and parking garages, don’t accept cards without a chip and PIN. Most cash registers are equipped to handle American cards but if you encounter difficulties, offer an alternative credit card or politely insist that the cashier keep trying to swipe the credit card. ATMs typically recognize and accept US issued debit cards. For travel to Europe, should you anticipate using ticket kiosks or purchasing train tickets locally, you may consider buying tickets and other basic purchases prior to departure.
| | Gratuities | This is a matter of personal discretion. You may use the following as a guideline:
General Suggested Tipping
- Tour escort (Coordinator; may or may not act as a guide): $6 or $7 per person per day
- Tour escort helper (in some countries): $1 per day
- Driver (Provides chauffeur services and limited assistance with luggage) : $3 per person per day, $2 per half 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, $3 per full day
Suggested Tipping: Hotels
- Porter: $2.00 per bag per person
- Wait staff: 5-10% of the bill (lunch or dinner)
- Chamber maid: $1.00 per person per day
Suggested Tipping: Sea Cruises
- Royal Caribbean: Standard gratuities (subject to change) are $9.75 per person per day including Stateroom attendant, Dining Room Waiter, Assistant Waiter, & Headwaiter ($12 per person per day for Suite guests)
- Louis Hellenic: approx $11 per person per day added automatically to the shipboard account
- Galapagos Islands: $8-9 per person per day
Suggested Tipping: River Cruises
- Europe: Crew: $10 per person per day, Gate 1 Cruise Director: $6 to $7 per person per day
- Russia & Ukraine: Crew: $8 to $10 per person per day
- Egypt: Crew: $5 per person per day
- China: Crew: $8 to $10 per person per day
- Ecuador: Crew: $12 per person per day; Ship's naturalist: $6 per person per day
- Peru: Crew: $15 per person per day
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.
| | Itinerary - India and Nepal | | Some days involve long distances driving in the coach. The drive between Delhi and Agra is approximately 5 hours. The drive between Delhi and Jaipur is approximately 6 hours. The drive between Agra and Jaipur is approximately 7 hours. Roads are generally not up to Western standards and may be very rough in some areas. For coaches, speed is limited to 40km/h due to poor road conditions and heavy traffic. There are no emergency bathrooms on the coaches in India. | | 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 on your trip. Here are several tips which, if followed, will save much potential hardship:
- Be aware of potentially dangerous places and situations as you would be at home. Avoid wearing expensive jewelry and carry your valuables concealed in inside pockets or hidden pouches. Your objective is to avoid drawing attention and to blend in with the crowd
- Don't put all your valuables (money, credit cards, passports, etc.) in the same place (in case one wallet is stolen, you should have other valuables and identification in another safe place)
- Do not 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
- Credit cards are generally accepted everywhere and are safer than traveling with large amounts of cash
- Do not pack valuables (cameras, computers, jewelry, etc.) in your checked luggage. Keep hard-to-replace valuables with you in your carry-on bag
- Keep wallets safely tucked into front trouser pockets and/or wear a money pouch inside your clothing
- Carry handbags close to your body, shoulder bags the cross-body method with the bag in front of your body.
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.
| Independent Activities - Gate 1 itineraries may contain suggestions for activities for your leisure time; these suggestions do not constitute a recommendation nor an endorsement of any specific service provider and the decision to participate in any such activities should be made independently and with due consideration. Gate 1 is not responsible for any activities not expressly included in its programs. Caution should be exercised when selecting certain activities that may require physical strength, coordination or exertion. Particular care should be taken when considering animal rides, such as on camels, mules or horses
| | Local Emergency Phone Numbers | India- Ambulance: 102
- Fire: 101
- Police: 100
Nepal- Ambulance: 228094
- Police: 100
| | Languages | India and Nepal - Language and dialect varies by region. 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.
| India and Nepal - The voltage used is 220 volts.
| | Code of Conduct | India and Nepal - Shaking hands is generally an appropriate greeting. Refrain from public displays of affection, as this can be seen as rude. In the event that you encounter people begging for alms, it is suggested that you do not give, as this often attracts the attention of many other alms-seekers. Many Indians are extremely friendly and may want to engage you in conversation. There are two sensitive topics it is generally recommended to avoid: any perceived negative economic conditions in the country and the issue of Pakistan.
| | Holidays - India and Nepal | | Holidays 2012 | | Jan 1 | New Year's Day | | Jan 14 | Pongal, harvest festival of South India | | Jan 26 | Republic Day | | Feb 4 | Milad-Un-Nabi, birth of the Islamic Prophet Muhammad | | Feb 20 | Great Night of Shiva | | Mar 8-9 | Holi, Hindu festival of colors | | Apr 5 | Mahavir Jayanthi, birth of Mahavira and most important religious holiday in Jainism | Apr 6 | Good Friday | Apr 8 | Easter | Apr 9 | Easter Monday | May 5 | Buddha Purnima, Buddha Day | Aug 2 | Raksha Bandhan, Hindu festival | Aug 10 | Krishna Janmashtami, birth of Krishna | Aug 15 | Independence Day | Aug 19 | Id ul Fitr, end of Ramadan | Sept 9-19 | Ganesh Chaturthi, Hindu festival celebrating birthday of Lord Ganesh | Oct 2 | Mahatma Ghandi's Birthday | Oct 24 | Vijaya Dashami: Hindu festival | Oct 26 | Eid-al-Adha, Islamic Feast of the Sacrifice | Nov 13 | Deepavali or Diwali, Festival of Lights | Nov 24 | Muharram, Islamic New Year | Nov 24 | Day of Ashura, mourning for martyr Husayn ibn Ali | Nov 28 | Guru Nanak's Birthday | Dec 25 | Christmas Day | Dec 26 | Boxing Day |
| | Nepal Holidays 2012 | Jan 28 | Vasant Panchami, Hindu festival celebrating Saraswati | | Jan 30 | Martyrs' Day | Feb 18 | National Democracy Day | Feb 20 | Shivaratri, in honour of Lord Shiva | Mar 8-9 | Holi, Hindu festival of colors | Mar 22 | Ghode Jatra, festival of horses | Apr 1 | Chaite Dashain, in honor of goddess Bhagawati | Apr 1 | Ram Nawami, Birthday of Lord Ram | Apr 14 | Nepali New Year | Apr 28 | Buddha Jayanti, Buddha Day | Aug 10 | Krishna Janmasthami, birth of Krishna | Oct 13 | Ghatasthapana, first day of Dashain festival | Oct 20 | Fulpati Saptami, Dashain festival | Oct 21 | Maha Ashtami, Dashain festival | Oct 22 | Maha Nawam, Dashain festival | Oct 23 | Vijaya Dashami, Dashain festival | Nov 9 | Constitution Day | Nov 13 | Lakshmi Puja, Diwali festival of lights | Nov 14 | Govardhan Puja, Diwali festival of lights |
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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.
| India and Nepal - While it is generally safe to eat fully cooked meats and vegetables, care should be taken to avoid undercooked meat and uncooked fruits and vegetables. Because tap water is not potable, visitors should only drink bottled water or water that has been boiled and filtered. Avoid ice, as it is usually made from tap water.
| | About Your Sightseeing | When travel dates coincide with religious holidays and national celebrations, some monuments and sites may be closed, sometimes without prior notice. On these occasions, escorted touring itineraries may be amended to reflect these closures. Occasionally, during holidays and certain periods, and/or due to other unforeseen circumstances including weather conditions, there may be last-minute changes, sometimes after arrival, which may affect the sequence of the tour and locations visited. National monuments and tourist sites regularly undergo renovations, which can obscure the monument's view. No tour will be canceled due to renovations, however Gate 1 will decide based on the conditions whether to amend an itinerary.
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