8 Day Affordable Switzerland
From
$1499
Land Only
$2309*
Air & Land
Featured Hotels
(Hotels may vary based on departure day of the week)
| Sunday Departure | ||
|---|---|---|
| Hotel Cornavin | Geneva | |
| Grand Europe Hotel | Lucerne | |
| Hotel Novotel Lugano Paradiso | Lugano | |
| Friday Departure | ||
|---|---|---|
| Hotel Cornavin | Geneva | |
| Astoria Hotel | Lucerne | |
| Grand Europe Hotel | Lucerne | |
| Hotel Novotel Lugano Paradiso | Lugano | |
Click a Date to Book Online
Click a Date to Book Online
| 2023 Dates & Prices Single Supplement: $450 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel | Dates | Embark | Tour Starts | Ship | Land Only | Air & Land | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
$1549 | $3079* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $1549 | $2429* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2024 Dates & Prices Single Supplement: $450 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Hotel | Dates | Embark | Tour Starts | Ship | Land Only | Air & Land | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $1499 | $2659* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $1549 | $2309* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $1499 | $2559* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $1549 | $2379* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $1599 | $2489* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $1599 | $2419* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
$1699 | $2499* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
$1699 | $2769* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Not Included:
Optional tours and gratuities.
Additional Information:
Land only price does not include arrival/departure transfers.
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.
Is This Trip Right for You?
Escorted Package Includes
- Flights New York-Geneva, Milan-New York
Other departure cities available. Click on date of departure for selection and prices - Airline taxes & fuel surcharges
- 6 nights First Class accommodations
- 2 nights Geneva
- 2 nights Lucerne
- 2 nights Lugano
- Hotel taxes, fees & service charges
- Hotel porterage
- All transfers included only with airfare purchase on package arrival & departure dates†
- 8 meals: 6 breakfasts, 2 dinners
- Sightseeing per itinerary in modern air-conditioned motor coach
- Services of English-speaking tour manager throughout
- Entrance fees per itinerary
- Comfortable wireless earphones for enhanced touring
Special Features
- During your Geneva tour, view the Jet d'Eau, Flower Clock and Reformation Monument
- Explore the hilltop village of Gruyere, home of Switzerland's most famous cheese
- Visit Berne, the capital of Switzerland, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Admire the 14th century medieval Chapel Bridge, forming the centerpiece of Lucerne's townscape
- Discover the medieval Castelgrande Castle, Bellinzona's mightiest castle
†Transfers are available for purchase for land only or on alternative flight dates
Is This Trip Right for You?
This moderately active trip covers a fair amount of ground each day. Expect from three to four hours walking every touring day. The pace is moderate, however you will encounter some uneven surfaces, cobblestone streets, stairs, steps and significant slopes. This tour is not recommended for people who have difficulty walking. This is an Off Season program. For more information, click here.
|
|
|
|
Gate 1 Travel 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.
This first class hotel is located in the heart of Geneva, across from the Cornavin train station.
Hotel Details
This first class hotel is situated in a prestigious location just a 5 minute drive from the city center.
Hotel Details
This first class hotel is located in the heart of Geneva, across from the Cornavin train station.
Hotel Details
This first class hotel is situated in a prestigious location just a 5 minute drive from the city center.
Hotel Details
- Tours purchased while travelling may cost an extra 10% or more
- Tours often sell out. Avoid disappointment
- Save your cash. Credit card processing may not be possible locally
- Travel insurance only covers services purchased prior to departure
- Book Online or call to book these tours up to 1 week before your departure
- The day the optionals operate varies by the day of the week
Ascend the world's steepest cogwheel railway which winds up through lush meadows carpeted with Alpine flowers, past sparkling mountain streams and fascinating rock faces to Mt. Pilatus. After admiring splendid views of the Bernese Oberland and the snowcapped Swiss peaks from the summit at nearly 7000 feet, descend by aerial cableway and return to Lucerne.
Approximate tour duration is 4 hours.
*From November to May and in the event of adverse weather, the cogwheel will be replaced by the aerial cable car.
| Day #5 | 26 Apr 2023 - 31 Dec 2023 | $105.00 |
| 01 Jan 2024 - 28 Apr 2024 | $114.00 |
Today, travel to the town of Como, home to exquisite Lake Como, one of Italy's most romantic destinations. Take a guided walking tour and experience the delights of this lakeside town with its spectacular mountain views. View the Como Cathedral, Basilica of San Fedele and Broletto (old town hall). Afterwards, embark on a private scenic cruise of the lake, admiring the picturesque villages and elegant villas. Spend some free time to shop in charming boutique stores, have lunch or perhaps even ride the funicular up to the town of Brunate for stunning views out over the lake before returning to Lugano.
Pick up details to be advised locally. Approximate tour duration is 9 hours.
| Day #7 | 01 Jan 2022 - 31 Mar 2025 | $83.00 |
Ascend the world's steepest cogwheel railway which winds up through lush meadows carpeted with Alpine flowers, past sparkling mountain streams and fascinating rock faces to Mt. Pilatus. After admiring splendid views of the Bernese Oberland and the snowcapped Swiss peaks from the summit at nearly 7000 feet, descend by aerial cableway and return to Lucerne.
Approximate tour duration is 4 hours.
*From November to May and in the event of adverse weather, the cogwheel will be replaced by the aerial cable car.
| Day #5 | 26 Apr 2023 - 31 Dec 2023 | $105.00 |
| 01 Jan 2024 - 28 Apr 2024 | $114.00 |
Today, travel to the town of Como, home to exquisite Lake Como, one of Italy's most romantic destinations. Take a guided walking tour and experience the delights of this lakeside town with its spectacular mountain views. View the Como Cathedral, Basilica of San Fedele and Broletto (old town hall). Afterwards, embark on a private scenic cruise of the lake, admiring the picturesque villages and elegant villas. Spend some free time to shop in charming boutique stores, have lunch or perhaps even ride the funicular up to the town of Brunate for stunning views out over the lake before returning to Lugano.
Pick up details to be advised locally. Approximate tour duration is 9 hours.
| Day #7 | 01 Jan 2022 - 31 Mar 2025 | $83.00 |
| Know Before You Go | |
| 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. |
| Getting Ready to Go |
| Passports and Visas |
| It is each traveler's responsibility to have a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the dates of travel 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. Passengers requiring visas, whether obtained in advance or locally upon arrival, should ensure that their passport has blank pages.
|
| Traveling with Friends or Family? |
| If you are traveling with friends or family who are booked on another reservation, please make sure that we are aware. On occasion, we may operate more than one vehicle on your tour departure in which case we will ensure that guests will be assigned together. This is achieved by connecting your reservations before your departure. Once you arrive in your destination, it may not be possible to make assignment changes. To check that your reservations are linked, log into https://www.gate1travel.com/res with your email and password, select your reservation number, and check to see that your reservations are indicated as "Traveling With" at the top right side of the display. |
| 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, driver's license) are in order. Make sure also that you have enough prescription medications to last through the trip and carry them with you in case your luggage is delayed. Bring a change of clothes in your carry-on bag in the event that your luggage is delayed or lost. Lost luggage is common. We strongly urge you to consider carry-ons instead of checked bags when possible, and when checking a bag is necessary, choose a bag color and identification that stands out. We suggest that you make photocopies of passports, visas, personal ID and any other important travel documents and pack them separately from the originals. You may also make a digital copy of your passport to keep a clear picture with the important details in your cell phone or digital camera photos. If you lose the originals while traveling, you'll have copies for easier reporting and replacement. Pack a list of medications including dosage and generic names. You may consider bringing a small supply of over the counter medications for headaches and/or anti-diarrhea pills (especially when traveling outside of the USA and Western Europe). We recommend that you pack a portable alarm clock. Due to security reasons, many museums have restrictions on the size of bags that can be taken inside and backpacks, carry-on bags or large purses may not be permitted. It is recommended to bring a small shoulder bag or purse to use in these situations instead. Avoid placing valuables such as cameras in your checked luggage. Airplane pressure can cause similar pressure in your body, most notably in ears, as well as liquid tubes and bottles. Your physician can suggest medication for decongestion. We suggest that you place liquid containers into Ziploc bags to catch any leaks. |
| Travel Safety Advice: The safety of our guests is Gate 1’s #1 concern. Before making the decision to reserve your vacation, we want you to be aware of potential situations which may impact your holiday. While most of the time our programs run precisely according to plans, on rare occasion force majeure events including weather, transportation mechanical issues, or uninhabitable accommodation, civil unrest and even criminal or terrorist activities will present themselves unexpectedly and with little or no notice. Gate 1 will make the decision to cancel a tour only after receiving verifiable government issued information. We are otherwise obliged to comply with contractual airline and vendor agreements and carry out the tour until or unless we are advised otherwise. In the event of such an occurrence anytime after your date of departure, Gate 1 and the local destination ground staff, in coordination with government advisories, airlines, hotels, cruise ships and other vendors, will make decisions with regard to your safety first. We strongly recommend that tour participants review the destination country's specific information at https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings.html. |
| Travel Protection |
| Even the best-planned trips can be impacted by the unexpected. And that is why we recommend that you help protect yourself and your investment by purchasing Travel Protection for your Gate 1 trip. Travel Protection can help with medical coverage for illness or injury, trip cancellation and/or interruption, baggage loss, medical evacuation, and more. At any time before you complete Final Payment, you may choose to purchase Travel Protection. The protection plan premium is non-refundable after a 10-day review period. In addition, you must be medically able to travel at the time the premium is paid. For a summary of the plan details on coverages, benefits, limitations and exclusions, please refer to the Description of Coverage by visiting www.gate1travel.com/insurance/. Cancel for Any Reason Waiver Benefit (CFAR) is a non-insurance feature that allows you to cancel up to 72 hours before your scheduled departure for any reason not otherwise covered in the Travel Protection Plan. CFAR must be purchased at the same time as the Travel Protection Plan as well as within 21 days of the original booking date. Independent or escorted tour reservations will be eligible for a future travel credit equal to the full cost of your trip, less the cost of initial deposit, airline-assessed fees, amendment fees, and insurance premium. Sea or river cruise reservations will be eligible for a future travel credit equal to 50% of the cost of your trip, less the cost of initial trip deposit, airline-assessed fees, amendment fees, and insurance premium. All CFAR credits are valid for a period of two years from the original date of travel. CFAR Credits have no cash value and are not transferrable. Airline-assessed fees are generally $300 per person, but may be as much as fully non-refundable. Some non-refundable airline tickets may retain value, less airline-assessed fees. Your future air credit must be used to book with the same airline. Deadlines to rebook and complete travel vary by airline and may be as early as 12 months from when the tickets were originally issued (not the date of travel). For details, www.gate1travel.com/insurance/. This program does not apply to custom groups and Antarctica cruises. Residents of New York, Missouri & Minnesota may purchase this Cancel for Any Reason Waiver Benefit separate from Travel Protection. Call to speak with a reservation agent for details. This Cancel for any Reason Wavier Benefit is not insurance and is provided by Gate 1 Travel. |
| Mobile Phones |
| Mobile networks differ from country to country. We recommend you check with your provider to see if your wireless plan will work in the destination(s) you are visiting. To avoid possible roaming charges, you may want to consider purchasing an international plan. With most major phone companies, for a modest fee, you will be able to use your domestic plan's talk, text, and data allowances just like you do at home. If you can access the internet while you travel, you can also take advantage of services such as WhatsApp or Skype. |
| 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 (often indicated with a “+” sign), then the destination Country Code, then the 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 you are dialing from a mobile phone, you can enter a “+” instead of the international Exit Code (011, 001, 0011 or 00) by pressing and holding the 0 key. For most countries in Africa, Asia, Europe, South America and South Pacific, if you are calling from a local phone to a number within the same country, you should drop both the exit and country codes and then add a leading 0 (zero). Exceptions include Spain, Italy, Hungary and Malta (no additional zero needed to dial locally). Example: To dial the following number in Germany (as listed on your voucher): +(49) 0555-555 From USA or your US cell phone: 011-49-555-555 From another country in Europe: 00-49-555-555 From a German phone within Germany: 0555-555 |
| WiFi Access |
| WiFi is available in most airports, hotels, and cruise lines, as well as on some flights, trains, and buses. There may be a fee for access and service quality and speed may vary greatly especially while on moving vehicles. Availability on cruises is also dependent upon its location while sailing through multiple countries. Please note that WiFi can be extremely slow, unreliable, and sometimes nonexistent in developing countries. |
| Staying Healthy While Traveling |
| All travelers should familiarize themselves with local conditions, such as high altitude or required immunizations, which could affect their health. We recommend you consult with your personal healthcare provider, the Centers for Disease Control (www.cdc.gov) and/or the World Health Organization (http://www.who.int/en/) for their recommendations. There are several easy steps you can take to stay healthy while traveling which may help prevent contracting an illness while away from home.
|
| 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://www.dot.gov/office-policy/aviation-policy/aircraft-disinsection-requirements. |
| Switzerland - Switzerland tours visit areas of high elevation ranging from 5,905 feet to 10,135 feet. High elevation may cause some passengers to experience the temporary effects of altitude sickness. If you have any concerns about traveling to higher than your accustomed elevation, please consult your healthcare provider. Individuals that are affected by high altitude, should avoid over-exertion, drink extra water, abstain from alcohol, and eat lightly. |
| Consideration for Tour Participants (Escorted Tours) |
For the benefit of all tour participants, we ask tour members to be considerate of their fellow travelers in the following ways:
|
| Climate & Clothing |
| Switzerland - Spring and Autumn: 35-55°F; Summer: 55-80°F; Winter: 25-35°F. 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). Switzerland Average Temperatures: https://www.gate1travel.com/weather/europe/default.aspx |
| About Drones |
| Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) or “drone” technology has quickly become affordable and is increasingly popular with recreational users. While some countries have clear, established drone laws, others do not, or existing regulations are undergoing review and change. Travelers who wish to bring a drone on their trip are responsible to research and abide by the laws and regulations of the countries they are visiting, as well as to check with their airline(s) regarding their rules for transporting drones. Please note that tours are unable to extend the length of scheduled visits and stops to accommodate use of drones. |
| 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. |
| CENTRAL EUROPE: Books The Eclipse of the Crescent Moon or Slave of the Huns by Géza Gárdonyi A Modern Midas: A Romance by Mór Jókai Fatelessness by Imre Kertész How to be an Alien or How to be Poor by George Mikes Csardas by Diane Pearson Who Loves You Like This by Edith Bruck Darkness at Noon by Arthur Koestler Kasztner's Train by Anna Porter Imprimatur or Secretum or Veritas by Monaldi & Sorti Europe 101: History and Art for the Traveler by Rick Steves and Gene Openshaw The Bridge at Andau by James A. Michener I Served the King of England or Bambini di Praga 1947 by Bohumil Hrabal Franz Kafka and Prague by Harald Salfellner The Unbearable Lightness of Being by Milan Kundera Old Czech Legends by Alois Jirásek The Golem by Gustav Meyrink The Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka The Good Soldier Svejk by Jaroslav Hašek |
| SWITZERLAND: Books William Tell by Friedrich Schiller The Swiss Family Robinson by Johann David Wyss Swiss Watching: Inside the Land of Milk & Honey by Diccon Bewes A Tramp Abroad by Mark Twain The Lions of Lucerne by Brad Thor Target Switzerland: Swiss Armed Neutrality in World War II by Stephen P. Halbrook Swiss History in a Nutshell by Gregoire Nappey Scrambles Amongst the Alps by Edward Whymper Why Switzerland? by Jonathan Steinberg SWITZERLAND: Films The Miracle of Bern (2003) The Swissmakers (1978) On Her Majesty's Secret Service (1969) Third Man on the Mountain (1959) Heidi (1937) |
| Preparing for Your Trip |
| Seat Assignments |
| As a courtesy service, complimentary airline seat assignments are requested on your behalf and, when available, are displayed in order of Passenger #1, #2 and so on. Assignments reflect the best available seats at the time of booking. Some airlines and/or fare types do not allow for pre-seating and require this be done at airport check-in only; in which case the display shows “N/A”. Seats are subject to change by your airline(s) including, for example, when there is a schedule change or equipment change after your initial booking; this may cause seat assignments to be changed or even cancelled. Some airlines offer preferred seating for an additional fee; these seats may only be purchased directly from the airline. You will need your family name and the 6-digit airline “Record Locator” which is displayed with the flight details on your reservation. In the event that you change seat assignments directly with your airline, changes will not be reflected on your invoice or documents. At the time that Gate 1 travel documents are issued, the currently assigned seats will be listed based on the assignments stored in your airline reservation at that time. Should you have questions regarding your assignments, please write to us at www.gate1travel.com/contactus. |
| Luggage & Packing |
| Checked bags are typically limited to a total dimension of 62 inches by adding length + width + height (example: 26"+26"+10" = 62”), and a maximum weight of 50 lbs (23kg). Smart Bags with a USB charging port, GPS tracking device and other high-tech features are prohibited as checked or carry-on baggage unless the bag is made with removable batteries and the batteries are removed and stored separately. Many airlines charge for checked bags including flights which begin and end within the USA. The most inexpensive airfare options commonly known as Basic Economy airfares do not include any checked bags nor seat assignments before the day of departure. However, for some airlines, other airfare categories also do not include checked baggage. This will be clearly displayed in our airfare selection and on your invoice. Where available, we highly recommend selecting airfares which include at least 1 piece of checked baggage. Gate 1 Travel is not responsible for checked bag fees, excess luggage or weight charges levied by an airline. Checked baggage allowances displayed on reservation details and invoices reflect the applicable allowance at the time of booking but are subject to change by your airline(s). For your airline’s requirements and fees, visit www.gate1travel.com/baggagefees.aspx. For important baggage information, visit www.gate1travel.com/luggage.aspx. Avoid placing valuables in your checked luggage. Federal law forbids the carriage of hazardous materials aboard the aircraft in your luggage, your carry-on or on your person. A violation can result in five years’ imprisonment and penalties of $250,000 or more (49 U.S.C. 5124). Hazardous materials include explosives, compressed gases, flammable liquids and solids, oxidizers, poisons, corrosives and radioactive materials. Examples: Paints, lighter fluid, fireworks, tear gases, oxygen bottles, and radio-pharmaceuticals. There are special exceptions for small quantities (up to 70 ounces total) of medicinal and toilet articles carried in your luggage and certain smoking materials carried on your person. Check the Transportation and Safety Administration (TSA) website www.tsa.gov to find out the current list of acceptable items you may bring on a plane before packing. We recommend that you use brightly colored luggage tags, straps or other identifiers to help you locate you luggage upon arrival or to describe it in the event that it is lost. |
| Day of Departure |
| Flight Services |
| What to do if You Need Assistance |
Whether you purchased your airfare from Gate 1 Travel or from the airline directly, please bear in mind that Gate 1 Travel does not own nor operate the airline(s), nor the airport facilities where they operate. At times, flying can be a frustrating experience, especially when things do not go exactly as planned, and airline explanations can be confusing or even misleading. Should you face a problem, remain calm and seek assistance either from the airline directly or from Gate 1. Please be aware that in most cases, on the day of your flight(s), airlines pass responsibility for your reservation to their staff at the airport and it is not always possible for Gate 1 Travel to intervene on your behalf, either through our reservations system or directly with your airline. |
| Arrival & Departure |
| Arrival Procedures |
| Upon arrival, please complete immigration formalities if necessary 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 collecting your luggage or 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. If you are delayed due to lost luggage, phone the number on the voucher or have a companion exit the Customs Area to advise the transfer representative. Be wary of airport scammers who offer unwanted assistance. If you are arriving without a pre-arranged transfer, we strongly recommend going to the Tourist Information Desk to ask for a licensed taxi or transfer service. You may be asked to pay for the transfer at the desk prior to the trip, this will ensure you are not charged extra during the trip. |
| 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, the better we can respond. Please refer to the Emergency Assistance instructions on this same document. 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 you 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. 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 Accommodations |
| Hotels |
| Gate 1 Travel has carefully selected each hotel based on overall quality, location, price, food, service, and cleanliness. All rooms are standard twin-bedded (two single beds) rooms with private facilities. Special requests such as bed types, smoking preference and connecting rooms are subject to availability. Room selection in all cases, unless otherwise reserved, is strictly at the discretion of the hotel's management on a run-of-house basis. Triple rooms consist of standard twin beds or one double bed plus a sofa/folding bed or cot for third person except in the U.S. and Canada, where triple rooms often consist of two double/queen beds for three persons; where available, a fee may be charged by the hotel for the addition of a cot/rollaway. The number of persons accommodated does not dictate the room size. Although available at most 4 and 5 star hotels, the use of air-conditioning abroad differs greatly from the United States, and is often shut down at night and from the end until the start of the summer months. Some lodges and accommodations in remote regions may not have all of the amenities, such as hairdryer, alarm clock and room service, that you might find in a larger hotel located in a city center. |
| Hotel Check-in/ Check-out |
| Hotel check-in time is generally not before 4:00 p.m. and check-out time is prior to 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. |
| At Your Destination |
| 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 and learn about foreign cultures, we ask first and foremost that you practice tolerance and respect for local customs. |
| Gratuities |
| Tipping is always a matter of personal discretion. For your convenience, please use the summary below as a guideline for recommended gratuity amounts. Gratuities may be paid in local currency or US dollar equivalent where accepted. Please be aware that 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 manager or phone our local office. Numbers are provided in your documents for your convenience. |
| Suggested Tipping: Escorted Tours |
Tour Manager (Coordinator; may or may not act as a guide): US $10 per person per day Driver (Provides chauffeur services and limited assistance with luggage): US $5 per person per day, US $3 per half day Local Guide (Offers in-depth information at specific locations. There may be one or many guides along a tour program): US $5 per person per day of sightseeing, US $3 per half day Hotel porters and wait staff: Included |
| Switzerland - Rounding up the bill is appreciated. Taxi drivers do not expect a gratuity and rounding up the fare is usually sufficient. |
| About Your Sightseeing |
| To ensure a pleasant and fair experience for passengers on our escorted tours, there is a mandatory seat rotation policy on our motor coaches which will be organized by your Tour Manager. On river cruises, color-coded group splits may be used for shoreside included and Optional tours. Some buses are equipped with toilet facility, however they are strictly intended for emergency use only and often require the vehicle to stop for safety reasons before use. 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. To respect the privacy of all tour participants, your tour manager will not organize a group photo or collect passenger email addresses for a group list. |
| 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 check-in. The details of the hotel can be found in your documents. |
| 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. https://www.gate1travel.com/terms.aspx#optional |
| 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 |
| Switzerland - The Swiss Franc is the currency of Switzerland. |
| 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 on your own. 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. All shops want your satisfaction, and therefore in case of any misunderstanding they ask that you kindly submit your claim to us within one week of the item's receipt. Claims submitted later will be subject to each store’s policies. 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 allows shoppers to reclaim the VAT (Value-Added Tax) or GST (Goods and Services Tax) they have paid on their purchases in some foreign countries in accordance with restrictions and procedures as dictated by each country. Refund eligibility varies by country, but may require presenting a scanned copy of your passport at the time of purchase, a minimum amount spent, or providing original store receipts. For more details, check the respective country’s online website, with the shop salesperson, with your tour manager or at www.globalblue.com for specific country regulations and airport operation hours. Please keep in mind that you must apply for VAT refund in the airport of the country the items were purchased and allow enough time prior to your flight for the application. U.S. Customs & Shipping Charges You may carry items with a fair retail value totaling $800 into the U.S. Taxes may be applied to the next $1,000 worth of merchandise. U.S. Customs determines the value of your items, often honoring a genuine sales receipt. Items which are shipped home are always subject to duty when received in the U.S. (in addition to shipping charges). Some shops may offer to include shipping and duties in the price but this typically means shipping only to the customs facility closest to you and payment only of the export duties; you would still need to collect the item and pay U.S. import duties. Please be aware that it is illegal to import products made from endangered animal species. U.S. Customs & Border Protection will seize these items, as well as most furs, coral, tortoise shell, reptile skins, feathers, plants, and items made from animal skins. |
| Switzerland - Shopping in Switzerland offers a great chance to find the highest quality watches and knives, extravagant jewelry, and gourmet Swiss chocolates. Especially famous for cuckoo clocks, ranging from the simplest models to the most extraordinarily intricate, Swiss craftsmanship is unsurpassed. |
| Your Safety is Very Important |
|
Prior to your trip, if you are traveling overseas, we strongly recommend that you visit the website of the U.S. Department of State at www.travel.state.gov, specifically the section which addresses International Travel. You should read the tips for foreign travel and travel warnings for the country or countries that you plan to visit. It is also 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:
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. |
| Tourist Street Scams |
Pickpockets and thieves can destroy an otherwise wonderful holiday. Be mindful of these precautions to help avoid being scammed or robbed:
|
| Local Emergency Phone Numbers |
Switzerland
|
| Languages |
| 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. |
| Switzerland - The voltage used is 230 volts. |
| Code of Conduct |
| Switzerland - Cleanliness is of utmost importance in Switzerland and even accidental littering can result in a public scolding. Shaking hands is a standard greeting. When being introduced, it is important to shake hands with everyone, including children. Standard courtesies should be observed, and conservative casual dress is appropriate. |
| Meals & Dietary Requests |
| Included meals are based on the restaurant's buffet or set menu. Beverages are not included, unless specifically stated. Although special diets like Vegetarian and Vegan are relatively commonplace in the USA, much of the world's menu options are more provincial. Please do not expect to find the variety of food selection outside of the local norm. Every effort will be made to honor special dietary requests selected no later than 5 days prior to departure in the passenger details section of your reservation. In addition, we recommend that you make preferences known to your tour manager upon arrival, and at each hotel/restaurant. Special requests are subject to local conditions and availability and cannot be guaranteed. |
| Holidays |
| On public holidays, there may be reduced public transportation, as well as limited hours or closures of attractions, shops and restaurants. |
| Holidays - Switzerland |
Holidays 2023 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 2: St. Berchtold Day Jan 6: Feast of the Epiphany Mar 19: St. Joseph's Day Apr 7: Good Friday Apr 9: Easter Apr 10: Easter Monday May 1: Labor Day/May Day May 18: Ascension Day May 28: Pentecost (Whit Sunday) May 29: Pentecost (Whit Monday) Jun 8: Corpus Christi Jun 29: St. Peter and St Paul Aug 1: Swiss National Day Aug 15: Feast of the Assumption Nov 1: All Saints' Day Dec 8: Immaculate Conception Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Dec 31: Restoration Day Holidays 2024 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 2: St. Berchtold Day Jan 6: Feast of the Epiphany Mar 19: St. Joseph's Day Mar 29: Good Friday Mar 31: Easter Apr 1: Easter Monday May 1: Labor Day/May Day May 9: Ascension Day May 19: Pentecost (Whit Sunday) May 20: Pentecost (Whit Monday) May 30: Corpus Christi Jun 29: St. Peter and St Paul Aug 1: Swiss National Day Aug 15: Feast of the Assumption Nov 1: All Saints' Day Dec 8: Immaculate Conception Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Dec 31: Restoration Day |
| Know Before You Go | |
| 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. |
| Getting Ready to Go |
| Passports and Visas |
| It is each traveler's responsibility to have a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the dates of travel 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. Passengers requiring visas, whether obtained in advance or locally upon arrival, should ensure that their passport has blank pages.
|
| Traveling with Friends or Family? |
| If you are traveling with friends or family who are booked on another reservation, please make sure that we are aware. On occasion, we may operate more than one vehicle on your tour departure in which case we will ensure that guests will be assigned together. This is achieved by connecting your reservations before your departure. Once you arrive in your destination, it may not be possible to make assignment changes. To check that your reservations are linked, log into https://www.gate1travel.com/res with your email and password, select your reservation number, and check to see that your reservations are indicated as "Traveling With" at the top right side of the display. |
| 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, driver's license) are in order. Make sure also that you have enough prescription medications to last through the trip and carry them with you in case your luggage is delayed. Bring a change of clothes in your carry-on bag in the event that your luggage is delayed or lost. Lost luggage is common. We strongly urge you to consider carry-ons instead of checked bags when possible, and when checking a bag is necessary, choose a bag color and identification that stands out. We suggest that you make photocopies of passports, visas, personal ID and any other important travel documents and pack them separately from the originals. You may also make a digital copy of your passport to keep a clear picture with the important details in your cell phone or digital camera photos. If you lose the originals while traveling, you'll have copies for easier reporting and replacement. Pack a list of medications including dosage and generic names. You may consider bringing a small supply of over the counter medications for headaches and/or anti-diarrhea pills (especially when traveling outside of the USA and Western Europe). We recommend that you pack a portable alarm clock. Due to security reasons, many museums have restrictions on the size of bags that can be taken inside and backpacks, carry-on bags or large purses may not be permitted. It is recommended to bring a small shoulder bag or purse to use in these situations instead. Avoid placing valuables such as cameras in your checked luggage. Airplane pressure can cause similar pressure in your body, most notably in ears, as well as liquid tubes and bottles. Your physician can suggest medication for decongestion. We suggest that you place liquid containers into Ziploc bags to catch any leaks. |
| Travel Safety Advice: The safety of our guests is Gate 1’s #1 concern. Before making the decision to reserve your vacation, we want you to be aware of potential situations which may impact your holiday. While most of the time our programs run precisely according to plans, on rare occasion force majeure events including weather, transportation mechanical issues, or uninhabitable accommodation, civil unrest and even criminal or terrorist activities will present themselves unexpectedly and with little or no notice. Gate 1 will make the decision to cancel a tour only after receiving verifiable government issued information. We are otherwise obliged to comply with contractual airline and vendor agreements and carry out the tour until or unless we are advised otherwise. In the event of such an occurrence anytime after your date of departure, Gate 1 and the local destination ground staff, in coordination with government advisories, airlines, hotels, cruise ships and other vendors, will make decisions with regard to your safety first. We strongly recommend that tour participants review the destination country's specific information at https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings.html. |
| Travel Protection |
| Even the best-planned trips can be impacted by the unexpected. And that is why we recommend that you help protect yourself and your investment by purchasing Travel Protection for your Gate 1 trip. Travel Protection can help with medical coverage for illness or injury, trip cancellation and/or interruption, baggage loss, medical evacuation, and more. At any time before you complete Final Payment, you may choose to purchase Travel Protection. The protection plan premium is non-refundable after a 10-day review period. In addition, you must be medically able to travel at the time the premium is paid. For a summary of the plan details on coverages, benefits, limitations and exclusions, please refer to the Description of Coverage by visiting www.gate1travel.com/insurance/. Cancel for Any Reason Waiver Benefit (CFAR) is a non-insurance feature that allows you to cancel up to 72 hours before your scheduled departure for any reason not otherwise covered in the Travel Protection Plan. CFAR must be purchased at the same time as the Travel Protection Plan as well as within 21 days of the original booking date. Independent or escorted tour reservations will be eligible for a future travel credit equal to the full cost of your trip, less the cost of initial deposit, airline-assessed fees, amendment fees, and insurance premium. Sea or river cruise reservations will be eligible for a future travel credit equal to 50% of the cost of your trip, less the cost of initial trip deposit, airline-assessed fees, amendment fees, and insurance premium. All CFAR credits are valid for a period of two years from the original date of travel. CFAR Credits have no cash value and are not transferrable. Airline-assessed fees are generally $300 per person, but may be as much as fully non-refundable. Some non-refundable airline tickets may retain value, less airline-assessed fees. Your future air credit must be used to book with the same airline. Deadlines to rebook and complete travel vary by airline and may be as early as 12 months from when the tickets were originally issued (not the date of travel). For details, www.gate1travel.com/insurance/. This program does not apply to custom groups and Antarctica cruises. Residents of New York, Missouri & Minnesota may purchase this Cancel for Any Reason Waiver Benefit separate from Travel Protection. Call to speak with a reservation agent for details. This Cancel for any Reason Wavier Benefit is not insurance and is provided by Gate 1 Travel. |
| Mobile Phones |
| Mobile networks differ from country to country. We recommend you check with your provider to see if your wireless plan will work in the destination(s) you are visiting. To avoid possible roaming charges, you may want to consider purchasing an international plan. With most major phone companies, for a modest fee, you will be able to use your domestic plan's talk, text, and data allowances just like you do at home. If you can access the internet while you travel, you can also take advantage of services such as WhatsApp or Skype. |
| 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 (often indicated with a “+” sign), then the destination Country Code, then the 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 you are dialing from a mobile phone, you can enter a “+” instead of the international Exit Code (011, 001, 0011 or 00) by pressing and holding the 0 key. For most countries in Africa, Asia, Europe, South America and South Pacific, if you are calling from a local phone to a number within the same country, you should drop both the exit and country codes and then add a leading 0 (zero). Exceptions include Spain, Italy, Hungary and Malta (no additional zero needed to dial locally). Example: To dial the following number in Germany (as listed on your voucher): +(49) 0555-555 From USA or your US cell phone: 011-49-555-555 From another country in Europe: 00-49-555-555 From a German phone within Germany: 0555-555 |
| WiFi Access |
| WiFi is available in most airports, hotels, and cruise lines, as well as on some flights, trains, and buses. There may be a fee for access and service quality and speed may vary greatly especially while on moving vehicles. Availability on cruises is also dependent upon its location while sailing through multiple countries. Please note that WiFi can be extremely slow, unreliable, and sometimes nonexistent in developing countries. |
| Staying Healthy While Traveling |
| All travelers should familiarize themselves with local conditions, such as high altitude or required immunizations, which could affect their health. We recommend you consult with your personal healthcare provider, the Centers for Disease Control (www.cdc.gov) and/or the World Health Organization (http://www.who.int/en/) for their recommendations. There are several easy steps you can take to stay healthy while traveling which may help prevent contracting an illness while away from home.
|
| 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://www.dot.gov/office-policy/aviation-policy/aircraft-disinsection-requirements. |
| Switzerland - Switzerland tours visit areas of high elevation ranging from 5,905 feet to 10,135 feet. High elevation may cause some passengers to experience the temporary effects of altitude sickness. If you have any concerns about traveling to higher than your accustomed elevation, please consult your healthcare provider. Individuals that are affected by high altitude, should avoid over-exertion, drink extra water, abstain from alcohol, and eat lightly. |
| Consideration for Tour Participants (Escorted Tours) |
For the benefit of all tour participants, we ask tour members to be considerate of their fellow travelers in the following ways:
|
| Climate & Clothing |
| Switzerland - Spring and Autumn: 35-55°F; Summer: 55-80°F; Winter: 25-35°F. 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). Switzerland Average Temperatures: https://www.gate1travel.com/weather/europe/default.aspx |
| About Drones |
| Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) or “drone” technology has quickly become affordable and is increasingly popular with recreational users. While some countries have clear, established drone laws, others do not, or existing regulations are undergoing review and change. Travelers who wish to bring a drone on their trip are responsible to research and abide by the laws and regulations of the countries they are visiting, as well as to check with their airline(s) regarding their rules for transporting drones. Please note that tours are unable to extend the length of scheduled visits and stops to accommodate use of drones. |
| 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. |
| CENTRAL EUROPE: Books The Eclipse of the Crescent Moon or Slave of the Huns by Géza Gárdonyi A Modern Midas: A Romance by Mór Jókai Fatelessness by Imre Kertész How to be an Alien or How to be Poor by George Mikes Csardas by Diane Pearson Who Loves You Like This by Edith Bruck Darkness at Noon by Arthur Koestler Kasztner's Train by Anna Porter Imprimatur or Secretum or Veritas by Monaldi & Sorti Europe 101: History and Art for the Traveler by Rick Steves and Gene Openshaw The Bridge at Andau by James A. Michener I Served the King of England or Bambini di Praga 1947 by Bohumil Hrabal Franz Kafka and Prague by Harald Salfellner The Unbearable Lightness of Being by Milan Kundera Old Czech Legends by Alois Jirásek The Golem by Gustav Meyrink The Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka The Good Soldier Svejk by Jaroslav Hašek |
| SWITZERLAND: Books William Tell by Friedrich Schiller The Swiss Family Robinson by Johann David Wyss Swiss Watching: Inside the Land of Milk & Honey by Diccon Bewes A Tramp Abroad by Mark Twain The Lions of Lucerne by Brad Thor Target Switzerland: Swiss Armed Neutrality in World War II by Stephen P. Halbrook Swiss History in a Nutshell by Gregoire Nappey Scrambles Amongst the Alps by Edward Whymper Why Switzerland? by Jonathan Steinberg SWITZERLAND: Films The Miracle of Bern (2003) The Swissmakers (1978) On Her Majesty's Secret Service (1969) Third Man on the Mountain (1959) Heidi (1937) |
| Preparing for Your Trip |
| Seat Assignments |
| As a courtesy service, complimentary airline seat assignments are requested on your behalf and, when available, are displayed in order of Passenger #1, #2 and so on. Assignments reflect the best available seats at the time of booking. Some airlines and/or fare types do not allow for pre-seating and require this be done at airport check-in only; in which case the display shows “N/A”. Seats are subject to change by your airline(s) including, for example, when there is a schedule change or equipment change after your initial booking; this may cause seat assignments to be changed or even cancelled. Some airlines offer preferred seating for an additional fee; these seats may only be purchased directly from the airline. You will need your family name and the 6-digit airline “Record Locator” which is displayed with the flight details on your reservation. In the event that you change seat assignments directly with your airline, changes will not be reflected on your invoice or documents. At the time that Gate 1 travel documents are issued, the currently assigned seats will be listed based on the assignments stored in your airline reservation at that time. Should you have questions regarding your assignments, please write to us at www.gate1travel.com/contactus. |
| Luggage & Packing |
| Checked bags are typically limited to a total dimension of 62 inches by adding length + width + height (example: 26"+26"+10" = 62”), and a maximum weight of 50 lbs (23kg). Smart Bags with a USB charging port, GPS tracking device and other high-tech features are prohibited as checked or carry-on baggage unless the bag is made with removable batteries and the batteries are removed and stored separately. Many airlines charge for checked bags including flights which begin and end within the USA. The most inexpensive airfare options commonly known as Basic Economy airfares do not include any checked bags nor seat assignments before the day of departure. However, for some airlines, other airfare categories also do not include checked baggage. This will be clearly displayed in our airfare selection and on your invoice. Where available, we highly recommend selecting airfares which include at least 1 piece of checked baggage. Gate 1 Travel is not responsible for checked bag fees, excess luggage or weight charges levied by an airline. Checked baggage allowances displayed on reservation details and invoices reflect the applicable allowance at the time of booking but are subject to change by your airline(s). For your airline’s requirements and fees, visit www.gate1travel.com/baggagefees.aspx. For important baggage information, visit www.gate1travel.com/luggage.aspx. Avoid placing valuables in your checked luggage. Federal law forbids the carriage of hazardous materials aboard the aircraft in your luggage, your carry-on or on your person. A violation can result in five years’ imprisonment and penalties of $250,000 or more (49 U.S.C. 5124). Hazardous materials include explosives, compressed gases, flammable liquids and solids, oxidizers, poisons, corrosives and radioactive materials. Examples: Paints, lighter fluid, fireworks, tear gases, oxygen bottles, and radio-pharmaceuticals. There are special exceptions for small quantities (up to 70 ounces total) of medicinal and toilet articles carried in your luggage and certain smoking materials carried on your person. Check the Transportation and Safety Administration (TSA) website www.tsa.gov to find out the current list of acceptable items you may bring on a plane before packing. We recommend that you use brightly colored luggage tags, straps or other identifiers to help you locate you luggage upon arrival or to describe it in the event that it is lost. |
| Day of Departure |
| Flight Services |
| What to do if You Need Assistance |
Whether you purchased your airfare from Gate 1 Travel or from the airline directly, please bear in mind that Gate 1 Travel does not own nor operate the airline(s), nor the airport facilities where they operate. At times, flying can be a frustrating experience, especially when things do not go exactly as planned, and airline explanations can be confusing or even misleading. Should you face a problem, remain calm and seek assistance either from the airline directly or from Gate 1. Please be aware that in most cases, on the day of your flight(s), airlines pass responsibility for your reservation to their staff at the airport and it is not always possible for Gate 1 Travel to intervene on your behalf, either through our reservations system or directly with your airline. |
| Arrival & Departure |
| Arrival Procedures |
| Upon arrival, please complete immigration formalities if necessary 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 collecting your luggage or 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. If you are delayed due to lost luggage, phone the number on the voucher or have a companion exit the Customs Area to advise the transfer representative. Be wary of airport scammers who offer unwanted assistance. If you are arriving without a pre-arranged transfer, we strongly recommend going to the Tourist Information Desk to ask for a licensed taxi or transfer service. You may be asked to pay for the transfer at the desk prior to the trip, this will ensure you are not charged extra during the trip. |
| 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, the better we can respond. Please refer to the Emergency Assistance instructions on this same document. 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 you 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. 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 Accommodations |
| Hotels |
| Gate 1 Travel has carefully selected each hotel based on overall quality, location, price, food, service, and cleanliness. All rooms are standard twin-bedded (two single beds) rooms with private facilities. Special requests such as bed types, smoking preference and connecting rooms are subject to availability. Room selection in all cases, unless otherwise reserved, is strictly at the discretion of the hotel's management on a run-of-house basis. Triple rooms consist of standard twin beds or one double bed plus a sofa/folding bed or cot for third person except in the U.S. and Canada, where triple rooms often consist of two double/queen beds for three persons; where available, a fee may be charged by the hotel for the addition of a cot/rollaway. The number of persons accommodated does not dictate the room size. Although available at most 4 and 5 star hotels, the use of air-conditioning abroad differs greatly from the United States, and is often shut down at night and from the end until the start of the summer months. Some lodges and accommodations in remote regions may not have all of the amenities, such as hairdryer, alarm clock and room service, that you might find in a larger hotel located in a city center. |
| Hotel Check-in/ Check-out |
| Hotel check-in time is generally not before 4:00 p.m. and check-out time is prior to 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. |
| At Your Destination |
| 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 and learn about foreign cultures, we ask first and foremost that you practice tolerance and respect for local customs. |
| Gratuities |
| Tipping is always a matter of personal discretion. For your convenience, please use the summary below as a guideline for recommended gratuity amounts. Gratuities may be paid in local currency or US dollar equivalent where accepted. Please be aware that 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 manager or phone our local office. Numbers are provided in your documents for your convenience. |
| Suggested Tipping: Escorted Tours |
Tour Manager (Coordinator; may or may not act as a guide): US $10 per person per day Driver (Provides chauffeur services and limited assistance with luggage): US $5 per person per day, US $3 per half day Local Guide (Offers in-depth information at specific locations. There may be one or many guides along a tour program): US $5 per person per day of sightseeing, US $3 per half day Hotel porters and wait staff: Included |
| Switzerland - Rounding up the bill is appreciated. Taxi drivers do not expect a gratuity and rounding up the fare is usually sufficient. |
| About Your Sightseeing |
| To ensure a pleasant and fair experience for passengers on our escorted tours, there is a mandatory seat rotation policy on our motor coaches which will be organized by your Tour Manager. On river cruises, color-coded group splits may be used for shoreside included and Optional tours. Some buses are equipped with toilet facility, however they are strictly intended for emergency use only and often require the vehicle to stop for safety reasons before use. 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. To respect the privacy of all tour participants, your tour manager will not organize a group photo or collect passenger email addresses for a group list. |
| 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 check-in. The details of the hotel can be found in your documents. |
| 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. https://www.gate1travel.com/terms.aspx#optional |
| 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 |
| Switzerland - The Swiss Franc is the currency of Switzerland. |
| 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 on your own. 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. All shops want your satisfaction, and therefore in case of any misunderstanding they ask that you kindly submit your claim to us within one week of the item's receipt. Claims submitted later will be subject to each store’s policies. 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 allows shoppers to reclaim the VAT (Value-Added Tax) or GST (Goods and Services Tax) they have paid on their purchases in some foreign countries in accordance with restrictions and procedures as dictated by each country. Refund eligibility varies by country, but may require presenting a scanned copy of your passport at the time of purchase, a minimum amount spent, or providing original store receipts. For more details, check the respective country’s online website, with the shop salesperson, with your tour manager or at www.globalblue.com for specific country regulations and airport operation hours. Please keep in mind that you must apply for VAT refund in the airport of the country the items were purchased and allow enough time prior to your flight for the application. U.S. Customs & Shipping Charges You may carry items with a fair retail value totaling $800 into the U.S. Taxes may be applied to the next $1,000 worth of merchandise. U.S. Customs determines the value of your items, often honoring a genuine sales receipt. Items which are shipped home are always subject to duty when received in the U.S. (in addition to shipping charges). Some shops may offer to include shipping and duties in the price but this typically means shipping only to the customs facility closest to you and payment only of the export duties; you would still need to collect the item and pay U.S. import duties. Please be aware that it is illegal to import products made from endangered animal species. U.S. Customs & Border Protection will seize these items, as well as most furs, coral, tortoise shell, reptile skins, feathers, plants, and items made from animal skins. |
| Switzerland - Shopping in Switzerland offers a great chance to find the highest quality watches and knives, extravagant jewelry, and gourmet Swiss chocolates. Especially famous for cuckoo clocks, ranging from the simplest models to the most extraordinarily intricate, Swiss craftsmanship is unsurpassed. |
| Your Safety is Very Important |
|
Prior to your trip, if you are traveling overseas, we strongly recommend that you visit the website of the U.S. Department of State at www.travel.state.gov, specifically the section which addresses International Travel. You should read the tips for foreign travel and travel warnings for the country or countries that you plan to visit. It is also 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:
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. |
| Tourist Street Scams |
Pickpockets and thieves can destroy an otherwise wonderful holiday. Be mindful of these precautions to help avoid being scammed or robbed:
|
| Local Emergency Phone Numbers |
Switzerland
|
| Languages |
| 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. |
| Switzerland - The voltage used is 230 volts. |
| Code of Conduct |
| Switzerland - Cleanliness is of utmost importance in Switzerland and even accidental littering can result in a public scolding. Shaking hands is a standard greeting. When being introduced, it is important to shake hands with everyone, including children. Standard courtesies should be observed, and conservative casual dress is appropriate. |
| Meals & Dietary Requests |
| Included meals are based on the restaurant's buffet or set menu. Beverages are not included, unless specifically stated. Although special diets like Vegetarian and Vegan are relatively commonplace in the USA, much of the world's menu options are more provincial. Please do not expect to find the variety of food selection outside of the local norm. Every effort will be made to honor special dietary requests selected no later than 5 days prior to departure in the passenger details section of your reservation. In addition, we recommend that you make preferences known to your tour manager upon arrival, and at each hotel/restaurant. Special requests are subject to local conditions and availability and cannot be guaranteed. |
| Holidays |
| On public holidays, there may be reduced public transportation, as well as limited hours or closures of attractions, shops and restaurants. |
| Holidays - Switzerland |
Holidays 2023 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 2: St. Berchtold Day Jan 6: Feast of the Epiphany Mar 19: St. Joseph's Day Apr 7: Good Friday Apr 9: Easter Apr 10: Easter Monday May 1: Labor Day/May Day May 18: Ascension Day May 28: Pentecost (Whit Sunday) May 29: Pentecost (Whit Monday) Jun 8: Corpus Christi Jun 29: St. Peter and St Paul Aug 1: Swiss National Day Aug 15: Feast of the Assumption Nov 1: All Saints' Day Dec 8: Immaculate Conception Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Dec 31: Restoration Day Holidays 2024 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 2: St. Berchtold Day Jan 6: Feast of the Epiphany Mar 19: St. Joseph's Day Mar 29: Good Friday Mar 31: Easter Apr 1: Easter Monday May 1: Labor Day/May Day May 9: Ascension Day May 19: Pentecost (Whit Sunday) May 20: Pentecost (Whit Monday) May 30: Corpus Christi Jun 29: St. Peter and St Paul Aug 1: Swiss National Day Aug 15: Feast of the Assumption Nov 1: All Saints' Day Dec 8: Immaculate Conception Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Dec 31: Restoration Day |
The whole experienced was beyond expectations. Karol (Kayo) our tour manager did an amazing job. He is very knowledgeable, friendly & a joy to travel with. He also had a lot of surprises & go extra mile to enhance our experience. Our entire group bonded like a small travel family, Thanks to Gate1 & Kayo. We cannot express enough gratitude to Gate1 & Kayo for an amazing holiday. Looking forward to our next Gate1 travel adventures.
Douglas H.
Absolutely amazing!! Tereza was a fantastic tour guide and wonderful wealth of information! The hotels were perfectly placed and all exceeded our wildest expectations! I honestly can't believe how well everything went truly a great trip and I've already recommended this company and especially that tour to several of my colleagues and friends!! Thank you for such a wonderful experience!!
Cody C.
Our trip to Europe was great, we enjoyed seeing the new sites and learning about each country and city. The tour guide assigned to our trip "Dean" was fabulous. Dean talked to us each day on the bus and explained what area of the country and the names of the cities, mountains and sites we would be viewing. I felt I was getting a good education each day on the sites and cities we would be visiting. Dean was also helpful with directing us to future trips and details we were interested in. He was always kind and extremely knowledgeable on any topic. I felt safe and comfortable with Dean as a tour guide. What an asset he is to GATE1.
Suzanne M.
Julia our Tour Manager, was exceptionally impressive with her knowledge about not only the areas we toured but also all the detailed historic knowledge she so willingly enjoyed sharing. She was a walking encyclopedia on just about any subject you would ask her about! Our driver, Palvo from Warsaw, Poland, was extremely polite greeting us warmly with a big smile every time we boarded his bus. He was always there to assist us boarding or unloading his bus. He was a very careful driver and was always dressed with a crisp white shirt and tie! He kept his bus immaculately clean and always provided fresh bottles of water for us.
Linda C.
This was our first trip to Europe and our first trip with Gate 1. The entire experience was amazing. We had lots of information prior to the trip to alleviate any concerns we had about travel arrangements to Frankfort and connections with the Gate 1 representative who met us at the airport. All Gate 1 representatives were professional and very personable. Our trip manager Justin helped make our trip extremely memorable. He was professional, knowledgeable about all of the destinations and suggestions for activities in our free time. His organizational skills were excellent- he let us know the upcoming plans, scheduling and kept us on track while making all of the this so much fun. We now have many new friends, amazing memories and will definitely book another Gate 1 tour in the future.
Michele H.
Central Europe tour was Amazing! The itinerary was packed with so many of the must see places in each of the cities that we visited. Our tour manager Fred was phenomenal. He has such a great sense of humor and made each of us feel welcome. Not only did he ensure that everything went smoothly but he also is exceptionally knowledgeable about the history and culture of the area. The local guides in each city also are very knowledgeable and I felt that they where preparing us for a quiz at the end of the trip, with their help we all could pass. My only disappointment is that we did not receive a stamp in our passports at each border crossing from country to country. I would recommend Gate 1 to friends or family and hope to travel with Gate 1 again in the future.
Janet C.
This was my husband's and my first Gate 1 trip. I just wanted to say that we had a wonderful time. We've always booked our own travel, but this trip was a great intro to scheduled tours. Our tour guide, Katerina, could not have been better. She was delightful, organized, personable, knowledgeable, friendly, and just a joy to be around. We found the balance between organized tours in the cities and exploring on our own to be a nice option for us. Our tour group had 27 people, and I think this added to the fun we had. Everybody got along, and the group wasn't too big. Only nine of us went on to Berlin, and having a small group was great. As I mentioned above, my husband and I have always booked travel on our own, and decided to take a chance on a Gate 1 tour. We felt that it was well organized and top notch, and would truly consider doing another trip through Gate 1. The only problem I seemed to have was using the Vox. Between the wind and trying to get the ear plugs in, I lost much of what was being said. My husband used his Bose headset and it worked great. You might want to suggest that people use their own headphones as an option.
Kathryn K.
Our tour to the Balkans was exceptional in every way! We are so happy that friends we met on our Scotland tour in May suggested this destination. We booked this tour together and might not have thought of this travel experience without their recommendation. This tour was incredibly fascinating and full of so much information, so much so, that it will probably take us several days and weeks to fully comprehend all that we have seen and done. I never expected to learn and enjoy so much in such a short time. Our tour guide, Sherban, gave us a wealth of information about the region and went above and beyond to make our tour successful, fun and interesting. He was one of the best tour guides we have had in all our 13 tours and we all became a family of 40 people who loved every minute! The hotels were exceptional, dinners were delicious and so happy we had so many meals together. (I do believe this helps a group to bond so much sooner!). Our bus driver, John, was warm, friendly and efficient. The bus was always spotless. I would highly recommend this tour to anyone interested in a unique and incredible travel adventure!!! Gate 1 Travel has completely enriched our lives by giving us "the world for less" and we are truly grateful to them for giving us so much joy!
Russel L.
I had a great trip! This was my first tour with any company and I will definitely recommend Gate 1 to friends. I was completely impressed with Sherban's ability to manage 40 people by providing needed information about general organization, daily activities, and upcoming activities. He is an extremely kind and thoughtful person with a wonderful sense of humor. During our trip, he interacted with each person with interest and helpfulness, making us all feel comfortable and valued. The choices of where, when and how long to stop at daily sights worked out very well. Sherban shared an abundance of information with strong English language skills. He revisited key historical information which helped me, a person who is not skilled at history, be able to understand and remember. The hotel rooms, food and locations were generally excellent. The included meal restaurants varied from amazing to mostly yummy. I'm grateful that we moved seats on the bus since some of the group always clamored for the front seats.
Katherine H.
I just completed the Jewels of the Alpine trip and it was wonderful. What made the trip so wonderful was our tour guide Nadine. She is excellent. Energetic, caring and compassionate, knowledgeable and professional. We have traveled more than 20 trip with Gate 1 and we had always had excellent guide but Nadine is there on the top of the list. We are so impressed with your company we never hesitate to tell people about you and we know some who have taken our advice and done a trip with you. I am 85 so our land tours are cutting down, even though we have two scheduled for next year, but we cruise a lot more. I always have Gate 1 trips available on my phone to show people where you go and how inexpensive they are. Thank you, thank you, thank you.
Darlene C.
As far as the Gate 1 15 day tour is concerned we would rate it as an A plus. The core components include our tour manager Michael and excellent motor coach driver Robert. The two five star properties and other four star properties were also good especially based on location. We picked this tour because of each destination and its place in world history, culture, architecture, & music concerts. The local city guides brought perspective and relevant insights to our contemporary societies. Our visit to Bratislava exceeded our expectaion, and was a gem. Auschwitz-Birkenau was perhaps the most important excursion to understand a horrific period in recent history. We have traveled extensively to all parts of the world. This was our third Gate 1 tour, and I would consider it the best.
Martin W.
I would like to thank you for an excellent and memorable tour. My special thank you to Micklos and Peter. Micklos was the best guide we ever had. It was helpful in every way, very knowledgeable and excellent in every possible way. The tour was very well organized, the location of hotels was great, convenient to everything, the staff was friendly and helpful. The tour sites and local guides were well selected. Considering how much we have seen in short time, I cannot imagine it doing it any better! Thank you Myklos and thank you Peter for for an exceptional experience
Erina D.
First we want to start off by saying our guide, Siobhan was one of the best guides we have ever had and Gate 1 is lucky to have her. Granted Switzerland has a lot to offer travelers but she made the experience even better with her knowledge, friendliness, concern and positive delightful attitude and personality. She also added extra excursions for us on the few free days/afternoons we had and she made all these extras look easy to organize and treated every one as if it were the first time she had ever done so. She was always enthusiastic and looked forward to everything on our itinerary. Everywhere in Switzerland is eye candy. The beauty of the lakes and mountains make this trip special and the added bonus was the Glacier Express. We never thought we'd want to endure a slow 8 hour train trip but along with the beauty, Siobhan provided activities and team building exercises that made the time fly by.
Joseph E.
We enjoyed our Central Europe guided tour very much. It was a very pleasant journey. We want to thank our tour manager, Michael, for providing us the excellent services and care in the whole duration of this trip. We also want to thank our driver, Albert, for his great service as well. Their services have exceeded our expectations. We could sense that Michael had worked tirelessly in order to make this trip a pleasant one for all members in the team. Michael is very knowledgeable and provided us all of the details regarding the histories of the attractions in the different cities/countries that we had visited. Michael deserves a perfect score in all aspects. Based on our experience from this trip, we would like to give this tour an overall rating of 5 stars.
Hue Y.
We had a wonderful time, best trip ever! Switzerland is just jaw dropping, unbelievable beautiful, majestic and amazing! The tour is great, we enjoyed the whole trip, foremost we were blessed with great weather and the BEST TOUR MANAGER in our opinion - Dennis! He's a true gem, and Gate 1 is very fortunate to have him. We were blessed with his knowledge, experience, genuine care and wisdom. Dennis is the quintessential Tour Manager/Advisor. We couldn't have asked for more. Our group was wonderful, different folks from different walks of life, backgrounds and personalities. We are grateful we all got along so well. We are blessed with new friendships and truly appreciate the time we had. A few words to describe the experience: Precious, beautiful, unforgettable memories and happiness! We are thankful for you, you've been most helpful, supportive and very patient with us.
Theresa C.
Our Switzerland trip was truly incredible. Frederica, our tour director, was a delightful and highly professional guide. She efficiently managed all our arrangements, leaving us with no concerns. This was our first time with Gate 1, and we had an amazing time. We will certainly be using Gate 1 for our future travels.
Amratban P.
We just got back this weekend from our 2nd small discovery tour & our 3rd gate1 escorted travel tour. Among the 3 escorted gate1 travel tour, I would say this is so far "the Best of the Best tour", we've ever experienced so far traveling with gate1 travel. Our tour manager and bus safety driver, Beatrice and Marionne respectively, were an unbeatable combination in our overall travel safety and group travel tour efficiency. All of us in the group of 22 diverse travelers were in sync & respectful in our departure & arrival times. Everything went very well and we are very pleased with Beatrice's wealth of knowledge about Switzerland's culture and diversity. All her food and dining recommendations during our leisure time on our own were spot on, especially with regards to Laderach Swiss chocolates. We wanted to keep on travelling with Beatrice & Marionne as our tour manager & travel driver partner in all our future gate1 escorted travels from now on. We have recommended Gate1 escorted travels even before to many of our friends. And sincerely, we will continue to do so, adding Beatrice & Marionne's names as highly recommended travel partners to all our friends future escorted travel plans. My wife & I are planning our 2024 vacay. As a matter of fact, we don't mind going back to Switzerland again with gate1 travels.
Rico L.
The Swiss Alpine Jewels tour was 12 days of spectacular natural beauty. Everywhere we went, everywhere we looked we saw gorgeous views before us! We cannot stop talking about the joy it gave us to be there with the like-minded people who were in our group. In addition to the incredible beauty of the country, we enjoyed the company of an excellent driver named Deiter and an exceptional tour manager Serge. Serge and Deiter were a wonderful team that took care of us like we were their family. Serge, a resident of Salzburg, Austria, was filled with knowledge of and love for Switzerland which he imparted to us in a way that made us love Switzerland even more. In addition to his great knowledge of Switzerland and Europe, he shared his wisdom in a wonderfully subtle way that always kept us smiling. I could go on, but let me end by saying that of the eight Gate1 trips we have done since we started traveling with Gate 1 in 2019, the Swiss Alpine Jewels is the most magnificent!
Marjorie H.
I had the privilege of being guided by Katarina from Gate One Travel on a whirlwind tour of Central Europe that took us through five cities and four countries in 11 days. To say that Katarina was an exceptional tour guide would be an understatement! Katarina's knowledge was awe-inspiring. She effortlessly weaved historical, cultural, and local insights into every step of our journey. Learning about each destination felt like an exciting adventure, not a history lesson. Her passion for the region was infectious, and it ignited our curiosity at every turn. What truly set Katarina apart was her ability to create a sense of unity within our diverse group. She didn't just guide us; she fostered an atmosphere where we felt like a close-knit family rather than a group of traveling companions. Her warm, vibrant personality, attention to individual needs and preferences, and thoughtful gestures made us feel cared for and connected. Throughout the tour, Katarina's enthusiasm for sharing her knowledge and love for Central Europe shone brightly. She made every moment memorable, from the picturesque cobblestone streets to the hidden gems of local cuisine. Katarina's dedication to ensuring our experience was not only educational but also enjoyable made this journey one that I will cherish forever!
Eulalee B.
My trip to Poland was wonderful! Poland was beautiful and my experience there was made special by the exceptional tour leader our group had. Marta went above and beyond to share her love of her homeland with us, and attended to all our needs with efficiency, caring, and sincere concern. She is a gem, and I would recommend a GATE1 Poland tour to friends if they had her as their leader.
Linda C.
My wife and I thoroughly enjoyed our trip. It was well organized and the accommodations were excellent. But a special note needs to be mentioned about our tour manager Colin Batch. Colin was beyond excellent. He was very knowledgeable, informative and communicated well. He was constantly taking care of us and worked very hard to meet our needs. We especially enjoyed the small things he did such as trivia games and small gifts he gave out In our opinion, the tour was excellent but Colin put it over the top. We are hoping that Colin will be our tour manager for that trips well! We are very happy and satisfied with our trip and are starting to plan our next trip with Gate1.
Donald A.
Just got back from our Switzerland Tour which was outstanding. Our tour Director Joanna (Asia) could not have been more professional and friendly. She handled any issues like a pro and never missed a step. She treated everyone like a new found friend and really made the trip outstanding. With Asia as our tour guide, the trip exceeded all expectations. We could have not had a better tour director. We are looking forward to another trip with Gate1.
Robert R.
Katarina was outstanding! What an amazing tour manager!! No one compares to her! If I knew she would be the tour manager in the future I would book another trip.
Sherry G.
As usual with Gate 1 trips overall that we have participated in over the past years, our trip to Switzerland under the subject reservation was GREAT and the tour guide and bus driver both did a superb job to make sure all was safe and that all ran as smooth as possible as we moved through our tour activities day to day!! Thanks again for a wonderful experience to the World of travel.. We saw and learned so, so much.. This was at least our 6th trip with Gate 1.. The guides used for your trips are very well trained and knowledgeable on details. Our guide on this trip did a great job to lead the overall group. We appreciate all the efforts put forth by our tour guide and bus driver.
Robert S.
Our trip to Germany, Switzerland and Austria was fabulous. Our tour guide Julian was extraordinary. He anticipated every need, made clear each day's agenda, entertained the group with numerous activities that facilitated laughter and friendships and educated us with his wealth of knowledge about the area. In addition he remained easily accessible to address all concerns at every minute of the trip. Regarding transportation, we found Thomas to be a very safe bus driver and one who was dependable and pleasant. All in all the tour guide and transportation services could not have been any better. Thank you Gate 1 for a wonderful travel experience and putting an outstanding staff in place for our travel.
Donna G.
I just wanted to send a message to please share with Senior Management. It's a message of praise for our Tour Leader Katarina. She did an excellent job in so many ways! We were a group of 42 traveling 11 days, visiting 5 Countries and 6 Cities during that time. This was my first Gate 1 Trip and I was a bit nervous that the experience might not be great trying to do so much in so little time and then in such a large group. Katarina was a true professional from the moment we met her until the end of the trip. She was supremely organized and always had me feeling safe and comfortable with all that was going on. To my amazement she was also able to keep us on schedule and enjoying ourselves throughout. Even the longer bus rides went smoothly with her accounting for our needs either sharing a movie or insights along the way or just letting us rest when we needed that. Another area where Katarina stood out was her kindness and generosity. Small gestures like having coins for us to use the public restrooms or bigger ones like acknowledging our 33rd wedding anniversary with a lovely note and bottle of wine. Also, Katarina has a great sense of humor and had us laughing particularly on the bus. Gate 1 is quite fortunate to have team members like Katarina supporting your tours and we as travelers were the beneficiaries which I very much appreciated.
Jordan F.
This was my 1st group tour. Dennis was an amazing tour manager. He was so well organized, it made the trip easy. He got us to places on time and in front of the crowds, which I really appreciated. He gave us great advice of things to do on our own or places to eat. Dennis is really and funny and kept us very engaged with humor and insight into our destinations. His shoes will be hard to fill for any tour manager I encounter in the future.
Eleanor H.
My trip was the BEST! Switzerland has such natural beauty you can't help but love it. But what enhanced the trip was Dennis. He is one of the best tour guides I've ever had. Organized, knowledgeable, witty, informational, entertaining, helpful, safety first mentality, he goes way above and beyond what's expected of him. And an all around nice guy. I've been traveling around the world since I was 19. Eventually worked for the airlines and am a constant traveler. I say this not to brag but to make a point that I have experienced the gambit of fantastic trips to not good trips. This was one of the top trips I've taken. The itinerary was fabulous ( don't change a thing!) hotel's lovely, meals delicious and again Dennis made it all the more special. Can't speak highly enough about him. He's an Alpine Jewel. I love Gate1. This might have been my 10th Gate1 and I keep referring others to your company because you do it right. More of the world for less.
Lynne T.