8 Day Tuscany Fly & Drive with Milan (New York)
From
$999*
Air & Land
Hotels/Plans Available for Departure Dates
| Plan B | ||
|---|---|---|
| Hotel Boston | Montecatini | |
| Hotel Minerva Palace | Montecatini | |
| Ibis Milano Malpensa Aeroporto | Cardano al Campo | |
| Plan A | ||
|---|---|---|
| Grand Hotel Plaza & Locanda Maggiore | Montecatini | |
| Hotel Novotel Milano Malpensa Airport | Cardano al Campo | |
Click a Date to Book Online
Click a Date to Book Online
| 2023 Dates & Prices Single Supplement: $300 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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$919* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $1089* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $1059* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $1019* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| $1089* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $1039* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| $1089* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $1049* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $1099* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $1149* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $1039* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| $999* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $1049* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $1039* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $999* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $1059* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $1039* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $1459* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $1349* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 2024 Dates & Prices Single Supplement: $300 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Hotel | Dates | Embark | Tour Starts | Ship | Land Only | Air & Land | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $1029* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2023 Dates & Prices Single Supplement: $300 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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$969* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $1139* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $1099* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $1069* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| $1139* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $1079* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $1049* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| $1099* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $1129* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $1099* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $1149* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $1199* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $1079* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| $1049* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $1099* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $1089* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $1509* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 2024 Dates & Prices Single Supplement: $300 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Hotel | Dates | Embark | Tour Starts | Ship | Land Only | Air & Land | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $1079* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Not Included:
Italian City Taxes (payable locally), car rental fees, optional car rental insurance and parking.
Additional Information:
Drivers must be at least 25 years old to rent a vehicle. A valid drivers license issued a minimum of 12 months prior to rental along with an international driving license is required for all renters. Drivers 75 years or older cannot be covered under the Personal Accident Insurance (PAI) or Personal Travel Insurance (PTI).
The lead passenger will be the listed as the driver of the vehicle. Additional drivers may be added for an extra cost at the time of vehicle pickup.
Rental vehicle pickup is unavailable outside of pickup location office hours, make sure your flight arrives during this time and at least 1.5 hours prior to closing time. Click here for the list of hours per location.
Entry Requirements:
Passengers traveling abroad require a passport valid for six months beyond their travel dates. All travelers are responsible to check if a visa is required for all countries on their itinerary. For visa information, check our Visas page.
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?
This independent program allows the flexibility to explore on your own. This program offers a selection of hotels to accommodate a variety of tastes and budgets. Driving duration can vary from two to four hours per day depending on route taken, hotel location, traffic, weather, road conditions, etc. Please note that this tour is not escorted and therefore you will not have the services of a tour manager to assist with hotel check-in formalities and luggage handling. The program's unconstrained nature excludes group advantages associated with escorted tours. Hotel locations, services and amenities differ according to the Plan. Read the descriptions in full and locate the hotels on our provided map to ensure the Hotel/Plan you select meets your desired criteria. A variety of airfare options are available for this program, including some low-cost fares which may exclude complimentary checked luggage and advance seat assignments. Please read each offering to ensure you choose the option that best fits your wishes. This is an Independent program. For more information, click here.
Independent Package Includes
- Round trip flights New York-Milan Malpensa, Milan Malpensa-New York
Other departure cities available. Click on date of departure for selection and prices - Airline taxes & fuel surcharges
- 6 nights accommodations
- 5 nights Montecatini
- 1 night Milan Malpensa
- 7 day car rental: Economy Manual (Lancia Ypsilon or similar). Upgrade to other categories available
- Car rental includes: Unlimited mileage, Third Party Liability Insurance (RCA), Collision Damage Waiver Reduction (CDW), Theft Protection Reduction (TP), Airport charges, local taxes (VAT)
- Breakfast daily
Vehicle Options
-
Economy Manual - Lancia Ypsilon or similar
- 1-2 passengers
- 2 Small Suitcases
- Manual Transmission
- Air-Conditioning
-
Economy Automatic - Toyota Yaris or similar
- 1-4 passengers
- 2 Small Suitcases
- Automatic Transmission
- Air-Conditioning
-
Compact Manual - Fiat 500L or similar
- 1-3 passengers
- 2 Small Suitcases
- Manual Transmission
- Air-Conditioning
-
Compact Automatic - VW T-Cross or similar
- 1-5 passengers
- 1 Large & 1 Small Suitcase
- Automatic Transmission
- Air-Conditioning
-
Fullsize Automatic - Mercedes-Benz C-Class or similar
- 1-5 Passengers
- 1 Large & 2 Small Suitcases
- Automatic Transmission
- Air-Conditioning
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Fullsize Van Manual - Nissan Primastar or similar
- 1-6 Passengers
- 2 Large & 2 Small Suitcases
- Manual Transmission
- Air-Conditioning
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Standard Van - Citroen Grand C4 Spacetourer or similar
- 1-7 Passengers
- 2 Large & 2 Small Suitcases
- Automatic Transmission
- Air-Conditioning
-
Premium Elite Automatic - Audi A5 or similar
- 1-5 Passengers
- 2 Large & 1 Small Suitcases
- Automatic Transmission
- Air-Conditioning
Is This Trip Right for You?
This independent program allows the flexibility to explore on your own. This program offers a selection of hotels to accommodate a variety of tastes and budgets. Driving duration can vary from two to four hours per day depending on route taken, hotel location, traffic, weather, road conditions, etc. Please note that this tour is not escorted and therefore you will not have the services of a tour manager to assist with hotel check-in formalities and luggage handling. The program's unconstrained nature excludes group advantages associated with escorted tours. Hotel locations, services and amenities differ according to the Plan. Read the descriptions in full and locate the hotels on our provided map to ensure the Hotel/Plan you select meets your desired criteria. A variety of airfare options are available for this program, including some low-cost fares which may exclude complimentary checked luggage and advance seat assignments. Please read each offering to ensure you choose the option that best fits your wishes. This is an Independent program. For more information, click here.
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Note: your itinerary will change depending upon the day of the week you depart. Click a day above to see what is included.
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Please note that the following is a suggested itinerary. While the sites listed below may be visited independently, the package does not cover any applicable entrance or tour fees.
*Please note that this is a suggested itinerary. Driving times and distances are estimated and can vary due to many circumstances, such as, specific route taken, hotel location, traffic, weather, road conditions, etc. GPS devices are recommended and can be rented locally. |
|
Please note that the following is a suggested itinerary. While the sites listed below may be visited independently, the package does not cover any applicable entrance or tour fees.
*Please note that this is a suggested itinerary. Driving times and distances are estimated and can vary due to many circumstances, such as, specific route taken, hotel location, traffic, weather, road conditions, etc. GPS devices are recommended and can be rented locally. |
|
Please note that the following is a suggested itinerary. While the sites listed below may be visited independently, the package does not cover any applicable entrance or tour fees.
*Please note that this is a suggested itinerary. Driving times and distances are estimated and can vary due to many circumstances, such as, specific route taken, hotel location, traffic, weather, road conditions, etc. GPS devices are recommended and can be rented locally. |
|
Please note that the following is a suggested itinerary. While the sites listed below may be visited independently, the package does not cover any applicable entrance or tour fees.
*Please note that this is a suggested itinerary. Driving times and distances are estimated and can vary due to many circumstances, such as, specific route taken, hotel location, traffic, weather, road conditions, etc. GPS devices are recommended and can be rented locally. |
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.
Hotel Boston, Montecatini
Hotel Minerva Palace, Montecatini
Ibis Milano Malpensa Aeroporto, Cardano al Campo
This tourist class hotel is about a 45 minute drive away from the city center of Milan.
Hotel Details
Grand Hotel Plaza & Locanda Maggiore, Montecatini
Hotel Novotel Milano Malpensa Airport, Cardano al Campo
This first class hotel is about a fifty minute drive away from the city center of Milan.
Hotel Details
Book your Optional Tours before you travel. See more, save time, save money.
- 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
| 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.
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| 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. |
| Cell Phones & Calling Cards |
| You may wish to carry a cell phone while traveling. Check with your cell phone provider if your phone will work in the destination(s) you are visiting. If you can access the Internet as you travel, you can take advantage of email or a Skype Internet telephone (VOIP) account for the best value. Additionally, if your phone can connect to WiFi you may be able to make voice and video calls free of charge. Please contact your cell phone provider for further details. Alternatively, you may investigate renting a cell phone before you leave or buying an inexpensive phone locally. When calling the U.S. from a foreign country, you may also use a prepaid calling card; normally, the only additional charge (besides the prepaid long distance charges) is a local fee of a few cents and possibly a connection fee if you are using your card at your hotel. It is best to check with the hotel's reception desk prior to making phone calls to avoid unexpected charges. Please note that we are unable to provide compensation for phone calls regardless of reason. |
| 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 access has improved. Free or inexpensive WiFi internet is accessible at coffee shops, airports, restaurants, libraries and on some trains and buses. WiFi access in hotels and cruise lines often involves a fee, determined by that property. Signal strength is subject to local conditions and not guaranteed. 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 or, on moving conveyances such as buses and cruise ships. |
| 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.
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| 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. |
| 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:
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| Climate & Clothing |
| Italy - Spring and Fall: 55-75°F; Summer: 70-85°F; Winter: 40-55°F. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. The months of October through March are considered rainy season in Venice, leading to high tides and occasionally waters reaching pedestrian areas. We suggest including a rain jacket and boots on your packing list. On cruises, informal dress is the general rule though on formal nights, a cocktail dress for women and a suit or coat and tie for men is required. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops). Italy Average Temperatures: https://www.gate1travel.com/weather/europe/default.aspx#italy-weather |
| 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. |
| About Independent Travel |
| Independent tours allow you the freedom and flexibility to enjoy your vacation days at your own pace, to explore on your own, to be spontaneous and to focus on personal interests. Accordingly, independent tours are very different from Gate 1's escorted tours, which are conducted by a Tour Manager who accompanies you throughout, manages your needs and provides expert guiding services from the beginning to the end of your tour. When traveling independently, please bear in mind that you will be responsible for your needs throughout. Depending upon the package or services you have selected, you may encounter representatives along the way, such as a transfer driver, or a local sightseeing guide. Those may be included in your tour or options you have pre-selected. However, you will be on your own to handle your luggage, locate service providers, check into and out of your hotels, and to get to and from train stations or car rental counters. Independent touring, as the name implies is for the independent traveler who is comfortable traveling on one's own with less guidance. Of course, as with all Gate 1 touring packages, you will find your services exactly as reserved when you arrive to your destination. |
| 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. |
| ITALY: Books Venice Is a Fish: A Sensual Guide by Tiziano Scarpa Secrets of Rome: Love and Death in the Eternal City or Secrets of the Vatican by Corrado Augias Under the Tuscan Sun: At Home in Italy or In Tuscany by Frances Mayes Caesar: Life of a Colossus by Adrian Keith Goldsworthy Italy for the Gourmet Traveler by Fred Plotkin Medici: Godfathers of the Renaissance by Paul Strathern A Day in the Life of Ancient Rome by Alberto Angela The Adventures of Pinocchio by Carlo Collodi Roma: The Novel of Ancient Rome by Steven Saylor ITALY: Films The Great Beauty (2013) I Am Love (2010) Under the Tuscan Sun (2003) The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999) Life is Beautiful (1997) A Room with a View (1985) La Dolce Vita (1960) Three Coins in the Fountain (1954) |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| Montecatini City Tax - The authorities of Montecatini Terme apply a city tax on all hotels. The tax requires a contribution of Euro 1 per person per night for a 3 star hotel, Euro 1.40 per person per night for a 4 star hotel and Euro 1.70 per person per night for a 5 star hotel up to a maximum of 7 consecutive nights. It will be charged and collected by your hotel and is payable in cash only. We regret that we are currently unable to collect this tax in advance or include it in your price for customers who are traveling independently or who arrange independent pre- or post-tour stays on an escorted tour. This tax is included in the tour price for customers who are traveling on an escorted tour accompanied by a Tour Manager who is able to pay directly to the hotel on your behalf. Please note that our hotel ratings may differ from official star ratings which determine the tax level. |
| Milan City Tax - The authorities of Milan apply a city tax on all hotels and certain tour services. The tax requires a contribution of 5.00 Euros per person per night for 4-Star hotels and 4.00 Euros per person per night for 3-Star hotels. It will be charged and collected by your hotel and is payable in cash only. We regret that we are currently unable to collect this tax in advance or include it in your price for customers who are traveling independently or who arrange independent pre- or post-tour stays on an escorted tour. This tax is included in the tour price for customers who are traveling on an escorted tour accompanied by a Tour Manager who is able to pay directly to the hotel on your behalf. Please note that our hotel ratings may differ from official star ratings which determine the tax level. |
| 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: Independent Tours |
Hotel Porter: US $3 per bag Hotel Wait staff: 5-10% of the bill (lunch or dinner) Local Sightseeing Tours: Guide: US $3 per person per half day, US $6 per person per full day Driver: US $2 per person per half day, US $4 per person per full day |
| Italy - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. Restaurant bills often include a service charge. 5-10% is customary for good service. |
| 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. 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 |
| Driving - Italy |
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Important: Please read the following information about your car rental carefully Vehicle Pickup: Vehicle rentals must be picked up during office hours and within one hour from the scheduled pickup time listed on your voucher. Flights must be arranged in accordance with office hours, and should arrive no later than 1.5 hours prior to office closing time. Office hours of each location are listed here: https://www.gate1travel.com/italy-travel/car-rental/office-hours.aspx. Please note that office hours are subject to change on Italian bank holidays. Not all of the Maggiore pickup locations are located in the airport, some may require you to take a shuttle to a different location. The location of the vehicle pickup counter can be found here https://www.gate1travel.com/car-rental/maggiore-vehicle-pickup-locations Vehicle Drop-off: If it is necessary to drop the vehicle off prior to the rental location's office hours, please inform the car rental agent when picking up the car to make alternate return arrangements. The car rental representative will provide instructions on how and where to leave the car. This service is only available at Italy airport locations. |
| Driving - Italy |
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Important: Please read the following information about your car rental carefully Vehicle Pickup: Vehicle rentals must be picked up during office hours and within one hour from the scheduled pickup time listed on your voucher. Flights must be arranged in accordance with office hours, and should arrive no later than 1.5 hours prior to office closing time. Office hours of each location are listed here: https://www.gate1travel.com/car-rental/italy-budget-hours. Please note that office hours are subject to change on Italian bank holidays. Not all of the Budget pickup locations are located in the airport, some may require you to take a free shuttle to a different location. The location of the vehicle pickup counter can be found here https://www.gate1travel.com/car-rental/budget-pickup-locations/ Vehicle Drop-off: If it is necessary to drop the vehicle off prior to the rental location's office hours, please inform the car rental agent when picking up the car to make alternate return arrangements. The car rental representative will provide instructions on how and where to leave the car. This service is only available at Italy airport locations. |
| Rental Duration: Vehicle rental is based upon consecutive 24 hour periods. Additional time will be billed and payable locally. The full daily rate will be charged after 29 minutes. There will be no refunds for late pick-up or early return. Rates do not include fuel. After the duration of the rental, the vehicle must be returned in the same condition in which it was received or additional fees may apply. Driver Registration: The driver of the vehicle must be older than 25 years old and hold a major credit card in their name that is accepted internationally. Electron, rechargeable, revolving credit cards, and debit cards are not accepted. This credit card must have sufficient funds to cover the deposit (see below). Please plan to use a Visa, MasterCard, or American Express credit card for your car rental as other cards are not widely recognized in Italy. A valid drivers license issued a minimum of 12 months prior to rental is required. An International driving license is required for renters who do not present a European Union driver's license. Drivers must carry their license from their country of origin as well as the International driving license. Additional drivers may be added at the approximate cost of 10 Euros per driver per day, payable locally. Only drivers registered on the rental contract will be eligible for insurance coverage. Vehicle Security Pre-Authorization Charge: At the time of rental, a pre-authorization charge will be obtained on a major credit card in the approximate amount of the first tank of fuel and optional equipment, approximately 250-500 Euros. The credit card must have sufficient credit to cover these fees. The charge will be held on your card until the vehicle is returned. Debit, Electron, or Prepaid cards are not accepted. Inspect Your Vehicle It is important to thoroughly inspect your vehicle before leaving the lot to avoid being held responsible for any damage to the rental car, other than normal wear-and-tear. Walk around the vehicle with the sales agent before driving off. Inspect the vehicle for existing dents, scratches, or other potential damage, and make sure that anything you find is noted on the contract. If the vehicle is unsatisfactory for any reason, request an exchange before leaving the lot. Snow Chains: As per government regulation, all cars will be equipped with snow chains from approximately November to April. Payment for snow chains will be collected locally and cost approximately 8.60 Euros per day with a maximum charge of 43 Euros per rental. Snow chains will be mandatory for all rentals with pick up or drop off at the following locations: -Venice Airport -Venice Mestre -Milan Malpensa Airport -Milan Linate Airport -Bologna Marconi Airport Vehicle Insurance: Car rental fees include Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), Theft Protection (TP), 3rd Party Liability, and Personal Accident Insurance (PAI). Additional Damage, Theft Protection and Personal Accident Insurance will be available at the time of car pick up and are also payable locally. Selections from these contracts may be found below. Coverage includes:
Vehicle Deductible: As outlined above, insurance to reduce your financial responsibility in the event of damage or theft to your vehicle while in your possession is included with your rental. Should you encounter one of these situations, you will still be subject to a deductible charge ranging from approximately 400 - 2,800 Euros, the exact amount is dependent on rental vehicle category. Optional additional insurances are available for purchase at the time of vehicle pick-up. Optional Additional Coverage includes:
Customer Care and Roadside Assistance: In the event of vehicle malfunction or an accident, the rental company must be contacted immediately. Failure to do so will compromise any claims for compensation. A customer care representative will be available 24 hours a day. If the vehicle is inoperable, request authorization to continue your trip with alternative transportation, you will be provided with an authorization number which can be used to pick up a replacement vehicle at the nearest rental car location. You may reach Budget Car Rental Roadside Assistance via an Italian phone through their toll free number 800-801-180, or from an international phone at +39 02 58240477. Emergency Assistance is available for the following:
In the case of an accident: Be sure to fill out the incident report form completely and have it signed by all parties involved. Safety: IMPORTANT: Do not leave luggage, passports, or any valuable objects inside an unattended vehicle. In case of a flat tire, call for assistance. Do not accept help from strangers, as this is sometimes a ploy to try to steal valuables from the vehicle. Road Conditions: Driving in Italy is very different than driving in the United States. The Italian expressway, or Autostrada has a 130 kph (80 mph) speed limit. Both city roads and expressways are filled with many scooters, bicycles, and smaller vehicles. These smaller vehicles are given the same road privileges as an automobile. If you have a driver's license from the United States, you must obtain an International Driving Permit that will enable you to drive in Italy for up to a year. It is also important to become familiar with local traffic laws of the areas you are visiting. Italy has two types of automated devices for monitoring speeding: Autovelox and Sistema Tutor. Both use a camera to take a photo of your license plate if you are speeding. You may receive a ticket in the mail or from the rental car company as much as a year later. Be aware of, and do not drive into, any limited traffic zones in city centers that require a special permit to enter such as a Zona Traffico Limitato (ZTL) or Area Pedonale. There are cameras that will take a photo of your license plate if you drive into these zones. As with speeding, you can receive a fine later on in the mail even if you are not stopped at the time of the incident. Upon exiting any toll road in Italy, it is important not to drive through any of the automatic toll collection lanes marked as TELEPASS, as you will be fined for this. Drive into any lane with an attendant and pay the necessary toll in either Euro or credit card. Some roads, are narrow and frequently have sharp turns. Traffic can back up easily during rainy weather. In remote locations, streets may not be properly maintained. In these situations we recommend trying to find an alternative route. As always, it is important to pay attention to road conditions and drive carefully. Taking the vehicle into Switzerland Driving in Switzerland requires a vignette for the motorways. The motorway tax sticker costs approximately 40 Swiss Franc (CHF) and can be purchased at gas and rest stops on the main roads leading to Switzerland (close to customs), in post offices or directly at the custom entry point. It is important to affix the motorway vignette to the inside of your windshield or you risk a fine. Parking: Street parking is available in most areas of Italy and designated by the color of the lines. Generally, parking spaces marked in blue lines require payment to park. A ticket will need to be purchased from a nearby parking machine and displayed in the window of the car. Certain hotels sell tickets for public street parking or have private parking facilities available. Generally, parking spaces marked in white are free but may have certain restrictions. Refer to signs to avoid tickets or fines. Yellow lines are specifically designated parking areas and off limits to public parking. GPS Systems and Cellular Phones: We recommend the use of a navigation system such as a navigation app on your personal mobile device or a GPS system while driving in Italy. In our experience, mobile apps, such as Google Maps or Waze, are the more reliable and user friendly options. An international data plan is necessary to utilize GPS on your mobile device. Contact your cell phone's service provider to check if international coverage is available. Personal Wi-Fi devices or cell phones may also be rented locally (subject to availability). A GPS system for your vehicle can be rented locally from Maggiore (subject to availability) at the approximate cost of 18.50 Euros per day. Please note that these devices may only provide turn by turn instructions via a map system, an audio guide is not guaranteed. In remote locations, sometimes navigation systems will recommend using streets that may not be properly maintained. In these situations we recommend trying to find an alternative route. As always, it is important to pay attention to road conditions and drive carefully. Post Travel: After the termination of your car rental, you may potentially incur additional fees related to services or charges that are not included with your Gate 1 package. Examples of these may include, but are not limited to, supplement for additional drivers, elected additional insurance, traffic violations, damage to the vehicle, or returning the vehicle with low fuel. These fees are payable directly to the car rental company and it is the your responsibility to contact the car rental company regarding such charges. These fees are not dictated or processed by Gate 1 Travel. Additionally, For your protection, we recommend you retain any and all documentation received at the counter from the car rental agency until you return home and are certain there are no more charges from the agency. Without it, we may not be able to assist should a dispute arise. |
| Italy - The Euro is the currency of Italy. Italian bank opening hours are typically Monday through Friday, 9am to 1pm depending on the bank. Most Italian banks do not offer exchange service. For this reason, it is strongly recommended to acquire a small amount of Euros prior to arriving. ATM machines are a better option. |
| 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. |
| Italy - Shops are generally open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 3:00 to 8:00 p.m., with some variations in Northern Italy, where the lunch break is shorter and shops close earlier. In the major cities, large stores and souvenir shops remain open throughout the day. Italy is renowned for its fashion industry, with fine clothes for men and women, lacework, jewelry, and leather accessories. Other quality goods include ceramics, gold and silver items, alabaster, woodwork, embroidery, glass and crystal ware. Major credit cards are usually accepted, though cash is preferred for small purchases. |
| Your Safety is Very Important |
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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:
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| Security at Major Sites - Please expect longer wait times at major sightseeing locations due to heightened security restrictions. These locations include, but are not limited to, the San Marco Basilica in Venice, the Accademia in Florence, and the Colosseum & Vatican in Rome. Bags of any kind are no longer allowed inside the San Marco Basilica and large bags/backpacks are restricted from the Colosseum. We suggest you to carry only necessary items (i.e. wallet, cell phone, camera) safely on your body and leave all other valuables in the hotel room safe when visiting these sites. |
| Local Emergency Phone Numbers |
Italy
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| Languages |
| Italy - Italian is the local language. English is generally spoken in tourist areas. |
| Electricity |
| Please note: The U.S. uses 120 volts and you can purchase a converter and transformer at most hardware stores for your 120V appliances. |
| Italy - The voltage used is 220 volts. |
| Code of Conduct |
| Italy - Family and social ties are, broadly speaking, stronger in Italy than in other Western European countries, and the Roman Catholic church retains a strong cultural influence. Common courtesies should be practiced. Casual dress is appropriate, but beachwear should be confined to the beach and poolside. Conservative clothing should be worn when visiting religious buildings, meaning legs and shoulders should be covered. While the cities are very safe, pickpocketing can occur. Avoid conspicuous expensive jewelry and be mindful of your wallet or handbag. Even though many Italians smoke, smoking is prohibited in all public buildings, public transport, cinemas and restaurants. |
| Food and Meals |
| As specified in each itinerary. Meals are based on the hotel's or restaurant's buffet or set menu. In general, beverages are not included, unless specifically stated. Although Gate 1 cannot make guarantees, every effort will be made to honor special dietary requests submitted in writing at least 72 hours prior to departure at www.gate1travel.com/contactus. Terminology for dietary requests can vary from country to country and options may be limited. Therefore we recommend that you make your wishes known to your tour manager upon arrival, and at each hotel/restaurant. |
| Holidays |
| On public holidays, there may be reduced public transportation, as well as limited hours or closures of attractions, shops and restaurants. |
| Holidays - Italy |
Holidays 2023 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 6: Epiphany Apr 9: Easter Sunday Apr 10: Easter Monday Apr 25: Liberation Day May 1: Labor Day Jun 2: Republic Day Aug 15: Assumption of the Virgin Nov 1: All Saints Day Dec 8: Immaculate Conception Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Please note that in addition, local feast days are held in honor of town patron saints, generally without closure of shops and offices. These include: Parma: Jan 13-14 (St. Hilary of Poitiers), Aug 16-17 (St. Roch) & May 5 (St. Honoratus) Catania: Feb 3-5; Aug 17 (St. Agatha) Sorrento: Feb 14 (St. Antoninus) Agrigento: Feb 25 (St. Gerland) & Jun 18 (St. Calogerus) Como: Apr 2; Aug 31 (St. Abbondio) Ragusa: Apr 23 (St. George) Venice: Apr 25 (St. Mark) & Nov 11 (St. Martin's Day) Treviso: Apr 27 (St. Liberalis) & Mar 27; Aug 1; Aug 22 (St. Augusta) Baveno: Jun 19 (Sts. Gervasius & Protasius) Matera: Jun 20 (St. John) & Jul 2 (St. Madonna della Bruna) Florence, Genoa & Turin: Jun 24 (St John the Baptist) Amalfi: Jun 27; Nov 30 (St. Andrew) Rome: Jun 29 (St. Peter & Paul) Siena: Jul 2 & Aug 16, Palio horserace Taormina: Jul 8-9 (St. Pancras) Palermo: Jul 15 (St. Rosalia) Santa Margherita Ligure: July 20 (St. Margaret of Antiochia) Lecce: Aug 26 (St. Orontius) Naples: Sep 19 (St. Gennaro) Bologna: Oct 4 (St. Petronius) Trieste: Nov 3 (St. Giusto) Montecatini: Dec 4 (St. Barbara) Bari: Dec 6, May 7-9 (St. Nicholas) Milan & Stresa: Dec 7 (St. Ambrose) Siracusa: Dec 13 (St. Lucy) Holidays 2024 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 6: Epiphany Mar 31: Easter Sunday Apr 1: Easter Monday Apr 25: Liberation Day May 1: Labor Day Jun 2: Republic Day Aug 15: Assumption of the Virgin Mary / Ferragosto Nov 1: All Saints Day Dec 8: Immaculate Conception Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Please note that in addition, local feast days are held in honor of town patron saints, generally without closure of shops and offices. These include: Parma: Jan 13-14 (St. Hilary of Poitiers), Aug 16-17 (St. Roch) Catania: Feb 3-5 & Aug 17 (St. Agatha) Sorrento: Feb 14 (St. Antoninus) Agrigento: Feb 25 (St. Gerland) & July 7-July 14 (St. Calogerus) Como: Aug 31 (St. Abbondio) Ragusa: May 26 (St. George) Venice: Apr 25 (St. Mark) & Nov 11 (St. Martin's Day) Treviso: Apr 27 (St. Liberalis); Mar 27, Aug 1 & Aug 22 (St. Augusta) Baveno: Jun 19 (Sts. Gervasius & Protasius) Matera: Jun 20 (St. John) & Jul 2 (St. Madonna della Bruna) Florence, Genoa & Turin: Jun 24 (St John the Baptist) Amalfi: Jun 27; Nov 30 (Sant' Andrea) Rome: Jun 29 (St. Peter & Paul) Siena: Jul 2 & Aug 16, Palio horserace Taormina: Jul 8-9 (St. Pancras) Palermo: Jul 14-15 (St. Rosalia) Santa Margherita Ligure: July 20 (St. Margaret of Antiochia) Lecce: Aug 26 (St. Orontius) Naples: Sep 19 (St. Gennaro) Bologna: Oct 4 (St. Petronius) Trieste: Nov 3 (St. Giusto) Montecatini: Dec 4 (St. Barbara) Bari: Dec 6 & May 7-9 (St. Nicholas) Milan & Stresa: Dec 7 (St. Ambrose) Siracusa: Dec 13 (St. Lucy) |
| Papal Audiences, Vatican City - Italy |
| General audiences with His Holiness the Pope are usually held once a week (Wednesdays at 11 a.m.) in Vatican City. They may be held inside the Basilica itself or in the hall of the Papal Audiences (Aula Paolo VI, Seating 7000), and in summer in Saint Peter's Square or in the papal summer residence at Castel Gandolfo. Please note that Castel Gandolfo is located approximately 20 miles south-east of Rome, not in Vatican City. Catholics are requested to have a letter of introduction from their parish priest. For this audience women should dress modestly, with arms and head covered. Dress should be dark or subdued in color. Men are requested to wear a tie and jacket. |
| New Venice Visitor Tax Regulation - It was recently announced that the city of Venice will be implementing an entrance tax of 10 Euros per person for tourists visiting the city for the day. In most cases, the tax will be included in the cost of the transportation to access the city center, including cruise, taxi, or public transportation. However, there may be instances where visitors will need to pay the tax upon arrival. We regret that we are currently unable to collect this tax in advance. Due to the uncertainty of this new regulation the information above is subject to change. |
| 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.
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| 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. |
| Cell Phones & Calling Cards |
| You may wish to carry a cell phone while traveling. Check with your cell phone provider if your phone will work in the destination(s) you are visiting. If you can access the Internet as you travel, you can take advantage of email or a Skype Internet telephone (VOIP) account for the best value. Additionally, if your phone can connect to WiFi you may be able to make voice and video calls free of charge. Please contact your cell phone provider for further details. Alternatively, you may investigate renting a cell phone before you leave or buying an inexpensive phone locally. When calling the U.S. from a foreign country, you may also use a prepaid calling card; normally, the only additional charge (besides the prepaid long distance charges) is a local fee of a few cents and possibly a connection fee if you are using your card at your hotel. It is best to check with the hotel's reception desk prior to making phone calls to avoid unexpected charges. Please note that we are unable to provide compensation for phone calls regardless of reason. |
| 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 access has improved. Free or inexpensive WiFi internet is accessible at coffee shops, airports, restaurants, libraries and on some trains and buses. WiFi access in hotels and cruise lines often involves a fee, determined by that property. Signal strength is subject to local conditions and not guaranteed. 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 or, on moving conveyances such as buses and cruise ships. |
| 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.
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| 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. |
| 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:
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| Climate & Clothing |
| Italy - Spring and Fall: 55-75°F; Summer: 70-85°F; Winter: 40-55°F. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. The months of October through March are considered rainy season in Venice, leading to high tides and occasionally waters reaching pedestrian areas. We suggest including a rain jacket and boots on your packing list. On cruises, informal dress is the general rule though on formal nights, a cocktail dress for women and a suit or coat and tie for men is required. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops). Italy Average Temperatures: https://www.gate1travel.com/weather/europe/default.aspx#italy-weather |
| 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. |
| About Independent Travel |
| Independent tours allow you the freedom and flexibility to enjoy your vacation days at your own pace, to explore on your own, to be spontaneous and to focus on personal interests. Accordingly, independent tours are very different from Gate 1's escorted tours, which are conducted by a Tour Manager who accompanies you throughout, manages your needs and provides expert guiding services from the beginning to the end of your tour. When traveling independently, please bear in mind that you will be responsible for your needs throughout. Depending upon the package or services you have selected, you may encounter representatives along the way, such as a transfer driver, or a local sightseeing guide. Those may be included in your tour or options you have pre-selected. However, you will be on your own to handle your luggage, locate service providers, check into and out of your hotels, and to get to and from train stations or car rental counters. Independent touring, as the name implies is for the independent traveler who is comfortable traveling on one's own with less guidance. Of course, as with all Gate 1 touring packages, you will find your services exactly as reserved when you arrive to your destination. |
| 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. |
| ITALY: Books Venice Is a Fish: A Sensual Guide by Tiziano Scarpa Secrets of Rome: Love and Death in the Eternal City or Secrets of the Vatican by Corrado Augias Under the Tuscan Sun: At Home in Italy or In Tuscany by Frances Mayes Caesar: Life of a Colossus by Adrian Keith Goldsworthy Italy for the Gourmet Traveler by Fred Plotkin Medici: Godfathers of the Renaissance by Paul Strathern A Day in the Life of Ancient Rome by Alberto Angela The Adventures of Pinocchio by Carlo Collodi Roma: The Novel of Ancient Rome by Steven Saylor ITALY: Films The Great Beauty (2013) I Am Love (2010) Under the Tuscan Sun (2003) The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999) Life is Beautiful (1997) A Room with a View (1985) La Dolce Vita (1960) Three Coins in the Fountain (1954) |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| Montecatini City Tax - The authorities of Montecatini Terme apply a city tax on all hotels. The tax requires a contribution of Euro 1 per person per night for a 3 star hotel, Euro 1.40 per person per night for a 4 star hotel and Euro 1.70 per person per night for a 5 star hotel up to a maximum of 7 consecutive nights. It will be charged and collected by your hotel and is payable in cash only. We regret that we are currently unable to collect this tax in advance or include it in your price for customers who are traveling independently or who arrange independent pre- or post-tour stays on an escorted tour. This tax is included in the tour price for customers who are traveling on an escorted tour accompanied by a Tour Manager who is able to pay directly to the hotel on your behalf. Please note that our hotel ratings may differ from official star ratings which determine the tax level. |
| Milan City Tax - The authorities of Milan apply a city tax on all hotels and certain tour services. The tax requires a contribution of 5.00 Euros per person per night for 4-Star hotels and 4.00 Euros per person per night for 3-Star hotels. It will be charged and collected by your hotel and is payable in cash only. We regret that we are currently unable to collect this tax in advance or include it in your price for customers who are traveling independently or who arrange independent pre- or post-tour stays on an escorted tour. This tax is included in the tour price for customers who are traveling on an escorted tour accompanied by a Tour Manager who is able to pay directly to the hotel on your behalf. Please note that our hotel ratings may differ from official star ratings which determine the tax level. |
| 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: Independent Tours |
Hotel Porter: US $3 per bag Hotel Wait staff: 5-10% of the bill (lunch or dinner) Local Sightseeing Tours: Guide: US $3 per person per half day, US $6 per person per full day Driver: US $2 per person per half day, US $4 per person per full day |
| Italy - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. Restaurant bills often include a service charge. 5-10% is customary for good service. |
| 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. 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 |
| Driving - Italy |
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Important: Please read the following information about your car rental carefully Vehicle Pickup: Vehicle rentals must be picked up during office hours and within one hour from the scheduled pickup time listed on your voucher. Flights must be arranged in accordance with office hours, and should arrive no later than 1.5 hours prior to office closing time. Office hours of each location are listed here: https://www.gate1travel.com/italy-travel/car-rental/office-hours.aspx. Please note that office hours are subject to change on Italian bank holidays. Not all of the Maggiore pickup locations are located in the airport, some may require you to take a shuttle to a different location. The location of the vehicle pickup counter can be found here https://www.gate1travel.com/car-rental/maggiore-vehicle-pickup-locations Vehicle Drop-off: If it is necessary to drop the vehicle off prior to the rental location's office hours, please inform the car rental agent when picking up the car to make alternate return arrangements. The car rental representative will provide instructions on how and where to leave the car. This service is only available at Italy airport locations. |
| Driving - Italy |
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Important: Please read the following information about your car rental carefully Vehicle Pickup: Vehicle rentals must be picked up during office hours and within one hour from the scheduled pickup time listed on your voucher. Flights must be arranged in accordance with office hours, and should arrive no later than 1.5 hours prior to office closing time. Office hours of each location are listed here: https://www.gate1travel.com/car-rental/italy-budget-hours. Please note that office hours are subject to change on Italian bank holidays. Not all of the Budget pickup locations are located in the airport, some may require you to take a free shuttle to a different location. The location of the vehicle pickup counter can be found here https://www.gate1travel.com/car-rental/budget-pickup-locations/ Vehicle Drop-off: If it is necessary to drop the vehicle off prior to the rental location's office hours, please inform the car rental agent when picking up the car to make alternate return arrangements. The car rental representative will provide instructions on how and where to leave the car. This service is only available at Italy airport locations. |
| Rental Duration: Vehicle rental is based upon consecutive 24 hour periods. Additional time will be billed and payable locally. The full daily rate will be charged after 29 minutes. There will be no refunds for late pick-up or early return. Rates do not include fuel. After the duration of the rental, the vehicle must be returned in the same condition in which it was received or additional fees may apply. Driver Registration: The driver of the vehicle must be older than 25 years old and hold a major credit card in their name that is accepted internationally. Electron, rechargeable, revolving credit cards, and debit cards are not accepted. This credit card must have sufficient funds to cover the deposit (see below). Please plan to use a Visa, MasterCard, or American Express credit card for your car rental as other cards are not widely recognized in Italy. A valid drivers license issued a minimum of 12 months prior to rental is required. An International driving license is required for renters who do not present a European Union driver's license. Drivers must carry their license from their country of origin as well as the International driving license. Additional drivers may be added at the approximate cost of 10 Euros per driver per day, payable locally. Only drivers registered on the rental contract will be eligible for insurance coverage. Vehicle Security Pre-Authorization Charge: At the time of rental, a pre-authorization charge will be obtained on a major credit card in the approximate amount of the first tank of fuel and optional equipment, approximately 250-500 Euros. The credit card must have sufficient credit to cover these fees. The charge will be held on your card until the vehicle is returned. Debit, Electron, or Prepaid cards are not accepted. Inspect Your Vehicle It is important to thoroughly inspect your vehicle before leaving the lot to avoid being held responsible for any damage to the rental car, other than normal wear-and-tear. Walk around the vehicle with the sales agent before driving off. Inspect the vehicle for existing dents, scratches, or other potential damage, and make sure that anything you find is noted on the contract. If the vehicle is unsatisfactory for any reason, request an exchange before leaving the lot. Snow Chains: As per government regulation, all cars will be equipped with snow chains from approximately November to April. Payment for snow chains will be collected locally and cost approximately 8.60 Euros per day with a maximum charge of 43 Euros per rental. Snow chains will be mandatory for all rentals with pick up or drop off at the following locations: -Venice Airport -Venice Mestre -Milan Malpensa Airport -Milan Linate Airport -Bologna Marconi Airport Vehicle Insurance: Car rental fees include Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), Theft Protection (TP), 3rd Party Liability, and Personal Accident Insurance (PAI). Additional Damage, Theft Protection and Personal Accident Insurance will be available at the time of car pick up and are also payable locally. Selections from these contracts may be found below. Coverage includes:
Vehicle Deductible: As outlined above, insurance to reduce your financial responsibility in the event of damage or theft to your vehicle while in your possession is included with your rental. Should you encounter one of these situations, you will still be subject to a deductible charge ranging from approximately 400 - 2,800 Euros, the exact amount is dependent on rental vehicle category. Optional additional insurances are available for purchase at the time of vehicle pick-up. Optional Additional Coverage includes:
Customer Care and Roadside Assistance: In the event of vehicle malfunction or an accident, the rental company must be contacted immediately. Failure to do so will compromise any claims for compensation. A customer care representative will be available 24 hours a day. If the vehicle is inoperable, request authorization to continue your trip with alternative transportation, you will be provided with an authorization number which can be used to pick up a replacement vehicle at the nearest rental car location. You may reach Budget Car Rental Roadside Assistance via an Italian phone through their toll free number 800-801-180, or from an international phone at +39 02 58240477. Emergency Assistance is available for the following:
In the case of an accident: Be sure to fill out the incident report form completely and have it signed by all parties involved. Safety: IMPORTANT: Do not leave luggage, passports, or any valuable objects inside an unattended vehicle. In case of a flat tire, call for assistance. Do not accept help from strangers, as this is sometimes a ploy to try to steal valuables from the vehicle. Road Conditions: Driving in Italy is very different than driving in the United States. The Italian expressway, or Autostrada has a 130 kph (80 mph) speed limit. Both city roads and expressways are filled with many scooters, bicycles, and smaller vehicles. These smaller vehicles are given the same road privileges as an automobile. If you have a driver's license from the United States, you must obtain an International Driving Permit that will enable you to drive in Italy for up to a year. It is also important to become familiar with local traffic laws of the areas you are visiting. Italy has two types of automated devices for monitoring speeding: Autovelox and Sistema Tutor. Both use a camera to take a photo of your license plate if you are speeding. You may receive a ticket in the mail or from the rental car company as much as a year later. Be aware of, and do not drive into, any limited traffic zones in city centers that require a special permit to enter such as a Zona Traffico Limitato (ZTL) or Area Pedonale. There are cameras that will take a photo of your license plate if you drive into these zones. As with speeding, you can receive a fine later on in the mail even if you are not stopped at the time of the incident. Upon exiting any toll road in Italy, it is important not to drive through any of the automatic toll collection lanes marked as TELEPASS, as you will be fined for this. Drive into any lane with an attendant and pay the necessary toll in either Euro or credit card. Some roads, are narrow and frequently have sharp turns. Traffic can back up easily during rainy weather. In remote locations, streets may not be properly maintained. In these situations we recommend trying to find an alternative route. As always, it is important to pay attention to road conditions and drive carefully. Taking the vehicle into Switzerland Driving in Switzerland requires a vignette for the motorways. The motorway tax sticker costs approximately 40 Swiss Franc (CHF) and can be purchased at gas and rest stops on the main roads leading to Switzerland (close to customs), in post offices or directly at the custom entry point. It is important to affix the motorway vignette to the inside of your windshield or you risk a fine. Parking: Street parking is available in most areas of Italy and designated by the color of the lines. Generally, parking spaces marked in blue lines require payment to park. A ticket will need to be purchased from a nearby parking machine and displayed in the window of the car. Certain hotels sell tickets for public street parking or have private parking facilities available. Generally, parking spaces marked in white are free but may have certain restrictions. Refer to signs to avoid tickets or fines. Yellow lines are specifically designated parking areas and off limits to public parking. GPS Systems and Cellular Phones: We recommend the use of a navigation system such as a navigation app on your personal mobile device or a GPS system while driving in Italy. In our experience, mobile apps, such as Google Maps or Waze, are the more reliable and user friendly options. An international data plan is necessary to utilize GPS on your mobile device. Contact your cell phone's service provider to check if international coverage is available. Personal Wi-Fi devices or cell phones may also be rented locally (subject to availability). A GPS system for your vehicle can be rented locally from Maggiore (subject to availability) at the approximate cost of 18.50 Euros per day. Please note that these devices may only provide turn by turn instructions via a map system, an audio guide is not guaranteed. In remote locations, sometimes navigation systems will recommend using streets that may not be properly maintained. In these situations we recommend trying to find an alternative route. As always, it is important to pay attention to road conditions and drive carefully. Post Travel: After the termination of your car rental, you may potentially incur additional fees related to services or charges that are not included with your Gate 1 package. Examples of these may include, but are not limited to, supplement for additional drivers, elected additional insurance, traffic violations, damage to the vehicle, or returning the vehicle with low fuel. These fees are payable directly to the car rental company and it is the your responsibility to contact the car rental company regarding such charges. These fees are not dictated or processed by Gate 1 Travel. Additionally, For your protection, we recommend you retain any and all documentation received at the counter from the car rental agency until you return home and are certain there are no more charges from the agency. Without it, we may not be able to assist should a dispute arise. |
| Italy - The Euro is the currency of Italy. Italian bank opening hours are typically Monday through Friday, 9am to 1pm depending on the bank. Most Italian banks do not offer exchange service. For this reason, it is strongly recommended to acquire a small amount of Euros prior to arriving. ATM machines are a better option. |
| 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. |
| Italy - Shops are generally open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 3:00 to 8:00 p.m., with some variations in Northern Italy, where the lunch break is shorter and shops close earlier. In the major cities, large stores and souvenir shops remain open throughout the day. Italy is renowned for its fashion industry, with fine clothes for men and women, lacework, jewelry, and leather accessories. Other quality goods include ceramics, gold and silver items, alabaster, woodwork, embroidery, glass and crystal ware. Major credit cards are usually accepted, though cash is preferred for small purchases. |
| Your Safety is Very Important |
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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:
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| Security at Major Sites - Please expect longer wait times at major sightseeing locations due to heightened security restrictions. These locations include, but are not limited to, the San Marco Basilica in Venice, the Accademia in Florence, and the Colosseum & Vatican in Rome. Bags of any kind are no longer allowed inside the San Marco Basilica and large bags/backpacks are restricted from the Colosseum. We suggest you to carry only necessary items (i.e. wallet, cell phone, camera) safely on your body and leave all other valuables in the hotel room safe when visiting these sites. |
| Local Emergency Phone Numbers |
Italy
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| Languages |
| Italy - Italian is the local language. English is generally spoken in tourist areas. |
| Electricity |
| Please note: The U.S. uses 120 volts and you can purchase a converter and transformer at most hardware stores for your 120V appliances. |
| Italy - The voltage used is 220 volts. |
| Code of Conduct |
| Italy - Family and social ties are, broadly speaking, stronger in Italy than in other Western European countries, and the Roman Catholic church retains a strong cultural influence. Common courtesies should be practiced. Casual dress is appropriate, but beachwear should be confined to the beach and poolside. Conservative clothing should be worn when visiting religious buildings, meaning legs and shoulders should be covered. While the cities are very safe, pickpocketing can occur. Avoid conspicuous expensive jewelry and be mindful of your wallet or handbag. Even though many Italians smoke, smoking is prohibited in all public buildings, public transport, cinemas and restaurants. |
| Food and Meals |
| As specified in each itinerary. Meals are based on the hotel's or restaurant's buffet or set menu. In general, beverages are not included, unless specifically stated. Although Gate 1 cannot make guarantees, every effort will be made to honor special dietary requests submitted in writing at least 72 hours prior to departure at www.gate1travel.com/contactus. Terminology for dietary requests can vary from country to country and options may be limited. Therefore we recommend that you make your wishes known to your tour manager upon arrival, and at each hotel/restaurant. |
| Holidays |
| On public holidays, there may be reduced public transportation, as well as limited hours or closures of attractions, shops and restaurants. |
| Holidays - Italy |
Holidays 2023 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 6: Epiphany Apr 9: Easter Sunday Apr 10: Easter Monday Apr 25: Liberation Day May 1: Labor Day Jun 2: Republic Day Aug 15: Assumption of the Virgin Nov 1: All Saints Day Dec 8: Immaculate Conception Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Please note that in addition, local feast days are held in honor of town patron saints, generally without closure of shops and offices. These include: Parma: Jan 13-14 (St. Hilary of Poitiers), Aug 16-17 (St. Roch) & May 5 (St. Honoratus) Catania: Feb 3-5; Aug 17 (St. Agatha) Sorrento: Feb 14 (St. Antoninus) Agrigento: Feb 25 (St. Gerland) & Jun 18 (St. Calogerus) Como: Apr 2; Aug 31 (St. Abbondio) Ragusa: Apr 23 (St. George) Venice: Apr 25 (St. Mark) & Nov 11 (St. Martin's Day) Treviso: Apr 27 (St. Liberalis) & Mar 27; Aug 1; Aug 22 (St. Augusta) Baveno: Jun 19 (Sts. Gervasius & Protasius) Matera: Jun 20 (St. John) & Jul 2 (St. Madonna della Bruna) Florence, Genoa & Turin: Jun 24 (St John the Baptist) Amalfi: Jun 27; Nov 30 (St. Andrew) Rome: Jun 29 (St. Peter & Paul) Siena: Jul 2 & Aug 16, Palio horserace Taormina: Jul 8-9 (St. Pancras) Palermo: Jul 15 (St. Rosalia) Santa Margherita Ligure: July 20 (St. Margaret of Antiochia) Lecce: Aug 26 (St. Orontius) Naples: Sep 19 (St. Gennaro) Bologna: Oct 4 (St. Petronius) Trieste: Nov 3 (St. Giusto) Montecatini: Dec 4 (St. Barbara) Bari: Dec 6, May 7-9 (St. Nicholas) Milan & Stresa: Dec 7 (St. Ambrose) Siracusa: Dec 13 (St. Lucy) Holidays 2024 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 6: Epiphany Mar 31: Easter Sunday Apr 1: Easter Monday Apr 25: Liberation Day May 1: Labor Day Jun 2: Republic Day Aug 15: Assumption of the Virgin Mary / Ferragosto Nov 1: All Saints Day Dec 8: Immaculate Conception Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Please note that in addition, local feast days are held in honor of town patron saints, generally without closure of shops and offices. These include: Parma: Jan 13-14 (St. Hilary of Poitiers), Aug 16-17 (St. Roch) Catania: Feb 3-5 & Aug 17 (St. Agatha) Sorrento: Feb 14 (St. Antoninus) Agrigento: Feb 25 (St. Gerland) & July 7-July 14 (St. Calogerus) Como: Aug 31 (St. Abbondio) Ragusa: May 26 (St. George) Venice: Apr 25 (St. Mark) & Nov 11 (St. Martin's Day) Treviso: Apr 27 (St. Liberalis); Mar 27, Aug 1 & Aug 22 (St. Augusta) Baveno: Jun 19 (Sts. Gervasius & Protasius) Matera: Jun 20 (St. John) & Jul 2 (St. Madonna della Bruna) Florence, Genoa & Turin: Jun 24 (St John the Baptist) Amalfi: Jun 27; Nov 30 (Sant' Andrea) Rome: Jun 29 (St. Peter & Paul) Siena: Jul 2 & Aug 16, Palio horserace Taormina: Jul 8-9 (St. Pancras) Palermo: Jul 14-15 (St. Rosalia) Santa Margherita Ligure: July 20 (St. Margaret of Antiochia) Lecce: Aug 26 (St. Orontius) Naples: Sep 19 (St. Gennaro) Bologna: Oct 4 (St. Petronius) Trieste: Nov 3 (St. Giusto) Montecatini: Dec 4 (St. Barbara) Bari: Dec 6 & May 7-9 (St. Nicholas) Milan & Stresa: Dec 7 (St. Ambrose) Siracusa: Dec 13 (St. Lucy) |
| Papal Audiences, Vatican City - Italy |
| General audiences with His Holiness the Pope are usually held once a week (Wednesdays at 11 a.m.) in Vatican City. They may be held inside the Basilica itself or in the hall of the Papal Audiences (Aula Paolo VI, Seating 7000), and in summer in Saint Peter's Square or in the papal summer residence at Castel Gandolfo. Please note that Castel Gandolfo is located approximately 20 miles south-east of Rome, not in Vatican City. Catholics are requested to have a letter of introduction from their parish priest. For this audience women should dress modestly, with arms and head covered. Dress should be dark or subdued in color. Men are requested to wear a tie and jacket. |
| New Venice Visitor Tax Regulation - It was recently announced that the city of Venice will be implementing an entrance tax of 10 Euros per person for tourists visiting the city for the day. In most cases, the tax will be included in the cost of the transportation to access the city center, including cruise, taxi, or public transportation. However, there may be instances where visitors will need to pay the tax upon arrival. We regret that we are currently unable to collect this tax in advance. Due to the uncertainty of this new regulation the information above is subject to change. |
| 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.
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| 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. |
| Cell Phones & Calling Cards |
| You may wish to carry a cell phone while traveling. Check with your cell phone provider if your phone will work in the destination(s) you are visiting. If you can access the Internet as you travel, you can take advantage of email or a Skype Internet telephone (VOIP) account for the best value. Additionally, if your phone can connect to WiFi you may be able to make voice and video calls free of charge. Please contact your cell phone provider for further details. Alternatively, you may investigate renting a cell phone before you leave or buying an inexpensive phone locally. When calling the U.S. from a foreign country, you may also use a prepaid calling card; normally, the only additional charge (besides the prepaid long distance charges) is a local fee of a few cents and possibly a connection fee if you are using your card at your hotel. It is best to check with the hotel's reception desk prior to making phone calls to avoid unexpected charges. Please note that we are unable to provide compensation for phone calls regardless of reason. |
| 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 access has improved. Free or inexpensive WiFi internet is accessible at coffee shops, airports, restaurants, libraries and on some trains and buses. WiFi access in hotels and cruise lines often involves a fee, determined by that property. Signal strength is subject to local conditions and not guaranteed. 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 or, on moving conveyances such as buses and cruise ships. |
| 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.
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| 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. |
| 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:
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| Climate & Clothing |
| Italy - Spring and Fall: 55-75°F; Summer: 70-85°F; Winter: 40-55°F. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. The months of October through March are considered rainy season in Venice, leading to high tides and occasionally waters reaching pedestrian areas. We suggest including a rain jacket and boots on your packing list. On cruises, informal dress is the general rule though on formal nights, a cocktail dress for women and a suit or coat and tie for men is required. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops). Italy Average Temperatures: https://www.gate1travel.com/weather/europe/default.aspx#italy-weather |
| 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. |
| About Independent Travel |
| Independent tours allow you the freedom and flexibility to enjoy your vacation days at your own pace, to explore on your own, to be spontaneous and to focus on personal interests. Accordingly, independent tours are very different from Gate 1's escorted tours, which are conducted by a Tour Manager who accompanies you throughout, manages your needs and provides expert guiding services from the beginning to the end of your tour. When traveling independently, please bear in mind that you will be responsible for your needs throughout. Depending upon the package or services you have selected, you may encounter representatives along the way, such as a transfer driver, or a local sightseeing guide. Those may be included in your tour or options you have pre-selected. However, you will be on your own to handle your luggage, locate service providers, check into and out of your hotels, and to get to and from train stations or car rental counters. Independent touring, as the name implies is for the independent traveler who is comfortable traveling on one's own with less guidance. Of course, as with all Gate 1 touring packages, you will find your services exactly as reserved when you arrive to your destination. |
| 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. |
| ITALY: Books Venice Is a Fish: A Sensual Guide by Tiziano Scarpa Secrets of Rome: Love and Death in the Eternal City or Secrets of the Vatican by Corrado Augias Under the Tuscan Sun: At Home in Italy or In Tuscany by Frances Mayes Caesar: Life of a Colossus by Adrian Keith Goldsworthy Italy for the Gourmet Traveler by Fred Plotkin Medici: Godfathers of the Renaissance by Paul Strathern A Day in the Life of Ancient Rome by Alberto Angela The Adventures of Pinocchio by Carlo Collodi Roma: The Novel of Ancient Rome by Steven Saylor ITALY: Films The Great Beauty (2013) I Am Love (2010) Under the Tuscan Sun (2003) The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999) Life is Beautiful (1997) A Room with a View (1985) La Dolce Vita (1960) Three Coins in the Fountain (1954) |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| Montecatini City Tax - The authorities of Montecatini Terme apply a city tax on all hotels. The tax requires a contribution of Euro 1 per person per night for a 3 star hotel, Euro 1.40 per person per night for a 4 star hotel and Euro 1.70 per person per night for a 5 star hotel up to a maximum of 7 consecutive nights. It will be charged and collected by your hotel and is payable in cash only. We regret that we are currently unable to collect this tax in advance or include it in your price for customers who are traveling independently or who arrange independent pre- or post-tour stays on an escorted tour. This tax is included in the tour price for customers who are traveling on an escorted tour accompanied by a Tour Manager who is able to pay directly to the hotel on your behalf. Please note that our hotel ratings may differ from official star ratings which determine the tax level. |
| Milan City Tax - The authorities of Milan apply a city tax on all hotels and certain tour services. The tax requires a contribution of 5.00 Euros per person per night for 4-Star hotels and 4.00 Euros per person per night for 3-Star hotels. It will be charged and collected by your hotel and is payable in cash only. We regret that we are currently unable to collect this tax in advance or include it in your price for customers who are traveling independently or who arrange independent pre- or post-tour stays on an escorted tour. This tax is included in the tour price for customers who are traveling on an escorted tour accompanied by a Tour Manager who is able to pay directly to the hotel on your behalf. Please note that our hotel ratings may differ from official star ratings which determine the tax level. |
| 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: Independent Tours |
Hotel Porter: US $3 per bag Hotel Wait staff: 5-10% of the bill (lunch or dinner) Local Sightseeing Tours: Guide: US $3 per person per half day, US $6 per person per full day Driver: US $2 per person per half day, US $4 per person per full day |
| Italy - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. Restaurant bills often include a service charge. 5-10% is customary for good service. |
| 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. 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 |
| Driving - Italy |
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Important: Please read the following information about your car rental carefully Vehicle Pickup: Vehicle rentals must be picked up during office hours and within one hour from the scheduled pickup time listed on your voucher. Flights must be arranged in accordance with office hours, and should arrive no later than 1.5 hours prior to office closing time. Office hours of each location are listed here: https://www.gate1travel.com/italy-travel/car-rental/office-hours.aspx. Please note that office hours are subject to change on Italian bank holidays. Not all of the Maggiore pickup locations are located in the airport, some may require you to take a shuttle to a different location. The location of the vehicle pickup counter can be found here https://www.gate1travel.com/car-rental/maggiore-vehicle-pickup-locations Vehicle Drop-off: If it is necessary to drop the vehicle off prior to the rental location's office hours, please inform the car rental agent when picking up the car to make alternate return arrangements. The car rental representative will provide instructions on how and where to leave the car. This service is only available at Italy airport locations. |
| Driving - Italy |
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Important: Please read the following information about your car rental carefully Vehicle Pickup: Vehicle rentals must be picked up during office hours and within one hour from the scheduled pickup time listed on your voucher. Flights must be arranged in accordance with office hours, and should arrive no later than 1.5 hours prior to office closing time. Office hours of each location are listed here: https://www.gate1travel.com/car-rental/italy-budget-hours. Please note that office hours are subject to change on Italian bank holidays. Not all of the Budget pickup locations are located in the airport, some may require you to take a free shuttle to a different location. The location of the vehicle pickup counter can be found here https://www.gate1travel.com/car-rental/budget-pickup-locations/ Vehicle Drop-off: If it is necessary to drop the vehicle off prior to the rental location's office hours, please inform the car rental agent when picking up the car to make alternate return arrangements. The car rental representative will provide instructions on how and where to leave the car. This service is only available at Italy airport locations. |
| Rental Duration: Vehicle rental is based upon consecutive 24 hour periods. Additional time will be billed and payable locally. The full daily rate will be charged after 29 minutes. There will be no refunds for late pick-up or early return. Rates do not include fuel. After the duration of the rental, the vehicle must be returned in the same condition in which it was received or additional fees may apply. Driver Registration: The driver of the vehicle must be older than 25 years old and hold a major credit card in their name that is accepted internationally. Electron, rechargeable, revolving credit cards, and debit cards are not accepted. This credit card must have sufficient funds to cover the deposit (see below). Please plan to use a Visa, MasterCard, or American Express credit card for your car rental as other cards are not widely recognized in Italy. A valid drivers license issued a minimum of 12 months prior to rental is required. An International driving license is required for renters who do not present a European Union driver's license. Drivers must carry their license from their country of origin as well as the International driving license. Additional drivers may be added at the approximate cost of 10 Euros per driver per day, payable locally. Only drivers registered on the rental contract will be eligible for insurance coverage. Vehicle Security Pre-Authorization Charge: At the time of rental, a pre-authorization charge will be obtained on a major credit card in the approximate amount of the first tank of fuel and optional equipment, approximately 250-500 Euros. The credit card must have sufficient credit to cover these fees. The charge will be held on your card until the vehicle is returned. Debit, Electron, or Prepaid cards are not accepted. Inspect Your Vehicle It is important to thoroughly inspect your vehicle before leaving the lot to avoid being held responsible for any damage to the rental car, other than normal wear-and-tear. Walk around the vehicle with the sales agent before driving off. Inspect the vehicle for existing dents, scratches, or other potential damage, and make sure that anything you find is noted on the contract. If the vehicle is unsatisfactory for any reason, request an exchange before leaving the lot. Snow Chains: As per government regulation, all cars will be equipped with snow chains from approximately November to April. Payment for snow chains will be collected locally and cost approximately 8.60 Euros per day with a maximum charge of 43 Euros per rental. Snow chains will be mandatory for all rentals with pick up or drop off at the following locations: -Venice Airport -Venice Mestre -Milan Malpensa Airport -Milan Linate Airport -Bologna Marconi Airport Vehicle Insurance: Car rental fees include Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), Theft Protection (TP), 3rd Party Liability, and Personal Accident Insurance (PAI). Additional Damage, Theft Protection and Personal Accident Insurance will be available at the time of car pick up and are also payable locally. Selections from these contracts may be found below. Coverage includes:
Vehicle Deductible: As outlined above, insurance to reduce your financial responsibility in the event of damage or theft to your vehicle while in your possession is included with your rental. Should you encounter one of these situations, you will still be subject to a deductible charge ranging from approximately 400 - 2,800 Euros, the exact amount is dependent on rental vehicle category. Optional additional insurances are available for purchase at the time of vehicle pick-up. Optional Additional Coverage includes:
Customer Care and Roadside Assistance: In the event of vehicle malfunction or an accident, the rental company must be contacted immediately. Failure to do so will compromise any claims for compensation. A customer care representative will be available 24 hours a day. If the vehicle is inoperable, request authorization to continue your trip with alternative transportation, you will be provided with an authorization number which can be used to pick up a replacement vehicle at the nearest rental car location. You may reach Budget Car Rental Roadside Assistance via an Italian phone through their toll free number 800-801-180, or from an international phone at +39 02 58240477. Emergency Assistance is available for the following:
In the case of an accident: Be sure to fill out the incident report form completely and have it signed by all parties involved. Safety: IMPORTANT: Do not leave luggage, passports, or any valuable objects inside an unattended vehicle. In case of a flat tire, call for assistance. Do not accept help from strangers, as this is sometimes a ploy to try to steal valuables from the vehicle. Road Conditions: Driving in Italy is very different than driving in the United States. The Italian expressway, or Autostrada has a 130 kph (80 mph) speed limit. Both city roads and expressways are filled with many scooters, bicycles, and smaller vehicles. These smaller vehicles are given the same road privileges as an automobile. If you have a driver's license from the United States, you must obtain an International Driving Permit that will enable you to drive in Italy for up to a year. It is also important to become familiar with local traffic laws of the areas you are visiting. Italy has two types of automated devices for monitoring speeding: Autovelox and Sistema Tutor. Both use a camera to take a photo of your license plate if you are speeding. You may receive a ticket in the mail or from the rental car company as much as a year later. Be aware of, and do not drive into, any limited traffic zones in city centers that require a special permit to enter such as a Zona Traffico Limitato (ZTL) or Area Pedonale. There are cameras that will take a photo of your license plate if you drive into these zones. As with speeding, you can receive a fine later on in the mail even if you are not stopped at the time of the incident. Upon exiting any toll road in Italy, it is important not to drive through any of the automatic toll collection lanes marked as TELEPASS, as you will be fined for this. Drive into any lane with an attendant and pay the necessary toll in either Euro or credit card. Some roads, are narrow and frequently have sharp turns. Traffic can back up easily during rainy weather. In remote locations, streets may not be properly maintained. In these situations we recommend trying to find an alternative route. As always, it is important to pay attention to road conditions and drive carefully. Taking the vehicle into Switzerland Driving in Switzerland requires a vignette for the motorways. The motorway tax sticker costs approximately 40 Swiss Franc (CHF) and can be purchased at gas and rest stops on the main roads leading to Switzerland (close to customs), in post offices or directly at the custom entry point. It is important to affix the motorway vignette to the inside of your windshield or you risk a fine. Parking: Street parking is available in most areas of Italy and designated by the color of the lines. Generally, parking spaces marked in blue lines require payment to park. A ticket will need to be purchased from a nearby parking machine and displayed in the window of the car. Certain hotels sell tickets for public street parking or have private parking facilities available. Generally, parking spaces marked in white are free but may have certain restrictions. Refer to signs to avoid tickets or fines. Yellow lines are specifically designated parking areas and off limits to public parking. GPS Systems and Cellular Phones: We recommend the use of a navigation system such as a navigation app on your personal mobile device or a GPS system while driving in Italy. In our experience, mobile apps, such as Google Maps or Waze, are the more reliable and user friendly options. An international data plan is necessary to utilize GPS on your mobile device. Contact your cell phone's service provider to check if international coverage is available. Personal Wi-Fi devices or cell phones may also be rented locally (subject to availability). A GPS system for your vehicle can be rented locally from Maggiore (subject to availability) at the approximate cost of 18.50 Euros per day. Please note that these devices may only provide turn by turn instructions via a map system, an audio guide is not guaranteed. In remote locations, sometimes navigation systems will recommend using streets that may not be properly maintained. In these situations we recommend trying to find an alternative route. As always, it is important to pay attention to road conditions and drive carefully. Post Travel: After the termination of your car rental, you may potentially incur additional fees related to services or charges that are not included with your Gate 1 package. Examples of these may include, but are not limited to, supplement for additional drivers, elected additional insurance, traffic violations, damage to the vehicle, or returning the vehicle with low fuel. These fees are payable directly to the car rental company and it is the your responsibility to contact the car rental company regarding such charges. These fees are not dictated or processed by Gate 1 Travel. Additionally, For your protection, we recommend you retain any and all documentation received at the counter from the car rental agency until you return home and are certain there are no more charges from the agency. Without it, we may not be able to assist should a dispute arise. |
| Italy - The Euro is the currency of Italy. Italian bank opening hours are typically Monday through Friday, 9am to 1pm depending on the bank. Most Italian banks do not offer exchange service. For this reason, it is strongly recommended to acquire a small amount of Euros prior to arriving. ATM machines are a better option. |
| 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. |
| Italy - Shops are generally open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 3:00 to 8:00 p.m., with some variations in Northern Italy, where the lunch break is shorter and shops close earlier. In the major cities, large stores and souvenir shops remain open throughout the day. Italy is renowned for its fashion industry, with fine clothes for men and women, lacework, jewelry, and leather accessories. Other quality goods include ceramics, gold and silver items, alabaster, woodwork, embroidery, glass and crystal ware. Major credit cards are usually accepted, though cash is preferred for small purchases. |
| 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:
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| Security at Major Sites - Please expect longer wait times at major sightseeing locations due to heightened security restrictions. These locations include, but are not limited to, the San Marco Basilica in Venice, the Accademia in Florence, and the Colosseum & Vatican in Rome. Bags of any kind are no longer allowed inside the San Marco Basilica and large bags/backpacks are restricted from the Colosseum. We suggest you to carry only necessary items (i.e. wallet, cell phone, camera) safely on your body and leave all other valuables in the hotel room safe when visiting these sites. |
| Local Emergency Phone Numbers |
Italy
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| Languages |
| Italy - Italian is the local language. English is generally spoken in tourist areas. |
| Electricity |
| Please note: The U.S. uses 120 volts and you can purchase a converter and transformer at most hardware stores for your 120V appliances. |
| Italy - The voltage used is 220 volts. |
| Code of Conduct |
| Italy - Family and social ties are, broadly speaking, stronger in Italy than in other Western European countries, and the Roman Catholic church retains a strong cultural influence. Common courtesies should be practiced. Casual dress is appropriate, but beachwear should be confined to the beach and poolside. Conservative clothing should be worn when visiting religious buildings, meaning legs and shoulders should be covered. While the cities are very safe, pickpocketing can occur. Avoid conspicuous expensive jewelry and be mindful of your wallet or handbag. Even though many Italians smoke, smoking is prohibited in all public buildings, public transport, cinemas and restaurants. |
| Food and Meals |
| As specified in each itinerary. Meals are based on the hotel's or restaurant's buffet or set menu. In general, beverages are not included, unless specifically stated. Although Gate 1 cannot make guarantees, every effort will be made to honor special dietary requests submitted in writing at least 72 hours prior to departure at www.gate1travel.com/contactus. Terminology for dietary requests can vary from country to country and options may be limited. Therefore we recommend that you make your wishes known to your tour manager upon arrival, and at each hotel/restaurant. |
| Holidays |
| On public holidays, there may be reduced public transportation, as well as limited hours or closures of attractions, shops and restaurants. |
| Holidays - Italy |
Holidays 2023 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 6: Epiphany Apr 9: Easter Sunday Apr 10: Easter Monday Apr 25: Liberation Day May 1: Labor Day Jun 2: Republic Day Aug 15: Assumption of the Virgin Nov 1: All Saints Day Dec 8: Immaculate Conception Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Please note that in addition, local feast days are held in honor of town patron saints, generally without closure of shops and offices. These include: Parma: Jan 13-14 (St. Hilary of Poitiers), Aug 16-17 (St. Roch) & May 5 (St. Honoratus) Catania: Feb 3-5; Aug 17 (St. Agatha) Sorrento: Feb 14 (St. Antoninus) Agrigento: Feb 25 (St. Gerland) & Jun 18 (St. Calogerus) Como: Apr 2; Aug 31 (St. Abbondio) Ragusa: Apr 23 (St. George) Venice: Apr 25 (St. Mark) & Nov 11 (St. Martin's Day) Treviso: Apr 27 (St. Liberalis) & Mar 27; Aug 1; Aug 22 (St. Augusta) Baveno: Jun 19 (Sts. Gervasius & Protasius) Matera: Jun 20 (St. John) & Jul 2 (St. Madonna della Bruna) Florence, Genoa & Turin: Jun 24 (St John the Baptist) Amalfi: Jun 27; Nov 30 (St. Andrew) Rome: Jun 29 (St. Peter & Paul) Siena: Jul 2 & Aug 16, Palio horserace Taormina: Jul 8-9 (St. Pancras) Palermo: Jul 15 (St. Rosalia) Santa Margherita Ligure: July 20 (St. Margaret of Antiochia) Lecce: Aug 26 (St. Orontius) Naples: Sep 19 (St. Gennaro) Bologna: Oct 4 (St. Petronius) Trieste: Nov 3 (St. Giusto) Montecatini: Dec 4 (St. Barbara) Bari: Dec 6, May 7-9 (St. Nicholas) Milan & Stresa: Dec 7 (St. Ambrose) Siracusa: Dec 13 (St. Lucy) Holidays 2024 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 6: Epiphany Mar 31: Easter Sunday Apr 1: Easter Monday Apr 25: Liberation Day May 1: Labor Day Jun 2: Republic Day Aug 15: Assumption of the Virgin Mary / Ferragosto Nov 1: All Saints Day Dec 8: Immaculate Conception Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Please note that in addition, local feast days are held in honor of town patron saints, generally without closure of shops and offices. These include: Parma: Jan 13-14 (St. Hilary of Poitiers), Aug 16-17 (St. Roch) Catania: Feb 3-5 & Aug 17 (St. Agatha) Sorrento: Feb 14 (St. Antoninus) Agrigento: Feb 25 (St. Gerland) & July 7-July 14 (St. Calogerus) Como: Aug 31 (St. Abbondio) Ragusa: May 26 (St. George) Venice: Apr 25 (St. Mark) & Nov 11 (St. Martin's Day) Treviso: Apr 27 (St. Liberalis); Mar 27, Aug 1 & Aug 22 (St. Augusta) Baveno: Jun 19 (Sts. Gervasius & Protasius) Matera: Jun 20 (St. John) & Jul 2 (St. Madonna della Bruna) Florence, Genoa & Turin: Jun 24 (St John the Baptist) Amalfi: Jun 27; Nov 30 (Sant' Andrea) Rome: Jun 29 (St. Peter & Paul) Siena: Jul 2 & Aug 16, Palio horserace Taormina: Jul 8-9 (St. Pancras) Palermo: Jul 14-15 (St. Rosalia) Santa Margherita Ligure: July 20 (St. Margaret of Antiochia) Lecce: Aug 26 (St. Orontius) Naples: Sep 19 (St. Gennaro) Bologna: Oct 4 (St. Petronius) Trieste: Nov 3 (St. Giusto) Montecatini: Dec 4 (St. Barbara) Bari: Dec 6 & May 7-9 (St. Nicholas) Milan & Stresa: Dec 7 (St. Ambrose) Siracusa: Dec 13 (St. Lucy) |
| Papal Audiences, Vatican City - Italy |
| General audiences with His Holiness the Pope are usually held once a week (Wednesdays at 11 a.m.) in Vatican City. They may be held inside the Basilica itself or in the hall of the Papal Audiences (Aula Paolo VI, Seating 7000), and in summer in Saint Peter's Square or in the papal summer residence at Castel Gandolfo. Please note that Castel Gandolfo is located approximately 20 miles south-east of Rome, not in Vatican City. Catholics are requested to have a letter of introduction from their parish priest. For this audience women should dress modestly, with arms and head covered. Dress should be dark or subdued in color. Men are requested to wear a tie and jacket. |
| New Venice Visitor Tax Regulation - It was recently announced that the city of Venice will be implementing an entrance tax of 10 Euros per person for tourists visiting the city for the day. In most cases, the tax will be included in the cost of the transportation to access the city center, including cruise, taxi, or public transportation. However, there may be instances where visitors will need to pay the tax upon arrival. We regret that we are currently unable to collect this tax in advance. Due to the uncertainty of this new regulation the information above is subject to change. |
| 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.
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| 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. |
| Cell Phones & Calling Cards |
| You may wish to carry a cell phone while traveling. Check with your cell phone provider if your phone will work in the destination(s) you are visiting. If you can access the Internet as you travel, you can take advantage of email or a Skype Internet telephone (VOIP) account for the best value. Additionally, if your phone can connect to WiFi you may be able to make voice and video calls free of charge. Please contact your cell phone provider for further details. Alternatively, you may investigate renting a cell phone before you leave or buying an inexpensive phone locally. When calling the U.S. from a foreign country, you may also use a prepaid calling card; normally, the only additional charge (besides the prepaid long distance charges) is a local fee of a few cents and possibly a connection fee if you are using your card at your hotel. It is best to check with the hotel's reception desk prior to making phone calls to avoid unexpected charges. Please note that we are unable to provide compensation for phone calls regardless of reason. |
| 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 access has improved. Free or inexpensive WiFi internet is accessible at coffee shops, airports, restaurants, libraries and on some trains and buses. WiFi access in hotels and cruise lines often involves a fee, determined by that property. Signal strength is subject to local conditions and not guaranteed. 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 or, on moving conveyances such as buses and cruise ships. |
| 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.
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| 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. |
| 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:
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| Climate & Clothing |
| Italy - Spring and Fall: 55-75°F; Summer: 70-85°F; Winter: 40-55°F. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. The months of October through March are considered rainy season in Venice, leading to high tides and occasionally waters reaching pedestrian areas. We suggest including a rain jacket and boots on your packing list. On cruises, informal dress is the general rule though on formal nights, a cocktail dress for women and a suit or coat and tie for men is required. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops). Italy Average Temperatures: https://www.gate1travel.com/weather/europe/default.aspx#italy-weather |
| 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. |
| About Independent Travel |
| Independent tours allow you the freedom and flexibility to enjoy your vacation days at your own pace, to explore on your own, to be spontaneous and to focus on personal interests. Accordingly, independent tours are very different from Gate 1's escorted tours, which are conducted by a Tour Manager who accompanies you throughout, manages your needs and provides expert guiding services from the beginning to the end of your tour. When traveling independently, please bear in mind that you will be responsible for your needs throughout. Depending upon the package or services you have selected, you may encounter representatives along the way, such as a transfer driver, or a local sightseeing guide. Those may be included in your tour or options you have pre-selected. However, you will be on your own to handle your luggage, locate service providers, check into and out of your hotels, and to get to and from train stations or car rental counters. Independent touring, as the name implies is for the independent traveler who is comfortable traveling on one's own with less guidance. Of course, as with all Gate 1 touring packages, you will find your services exactly as reserved when you arrive to your destination. |
| 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. |
| ITALY: Books Venice Is a Fish: A Sensual Guide by Tiziano Scarpa Secrets of Rome: Love and Death in the Eternal City or Secrets of the Vatican by Corrado Augias Under the Tuscan Sun: At Home in Italy or In Tuscany by Frances Mayes Caesar: Life of a Colossus by Adrian Keith Goldsworthy Italy for the Gourmet Traveler by Fred Plotkin Medici: Godfathers of the Renaissance by Paul Strathern A Day in the Life of Ancient Rome by Alberto Angela The Adventures of Pinocchio by Carlo Collodi Roma: The Novel of Ancient Rome by Steven Saylor ITALY: Films The Great Beauty (2013) I Am Love (2010) Under the Tuscan Sun (2003) The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999) Life is Beautiful (1997) A Room with a View (1985) La Dolce Vita (1960) Three Coins in the Fountain (1954) |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| Montecatini City Tax - The authorities of Montecatini Terme apply a city tax on all hotels. The tax requires a contribution of Euro 1 per person per night for a 3 star hotel, Euro 1.40 per person per night for a 4 star hotel and Euro 1.70 per person per night for a 5 star hotel up to a maximum of 7 consecutive nights. It will be charged and collected by your hotel and is payable in cash only. We regret that we are currently unable to collect this tax in advance or include it in your price for customers who are traveling independently or who arrange independent pre- or post-tour stays on an escorted tour. This tax is included in the tour price for customers who are traveling on an escorted tour accompanied by a Tour Manager who is able to pay directly to the hotel on your behalf. Please note that our hotel ratings may differ from official star ratings which determine the tax level. |
| Milan City Tax - The authorities of Milan apply a city tax on all hotels and certain tour services. The tax requires a contribution of 5.00 Euros per person per night for 4-Star hotels and 4.00 Euros per person per night for 3-Star hotels. It will be charged and collected by your hotel and is payable in cash only. We regret that we are currently unable to collect this tax in advance or include it in your price for customers who are traveling independently or who arrange independent pre- or post-tour stays on an escorted tour. This tax is included in the tour price for customers who are traveling on an escorted tour accompanied by a Tour Manager who is able to pay directly to the hotel on your behalf. Please note that our hotel ratings may differ from official star ratings which determine the tax level. |
| 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: Independent Tours |
Hotel Porter: US $3 per bag Hotel Wait staff: 5-10% of the bill (lunch or dinner) Local Sightseeing Tours: Guide: US $3 per person per half day, US $6 per person per full day Driver: US $2 per person per half day, US $4 per person per full day |
| Italy - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. Restaurant bills often include a service charge. 5-10% is customary for good service. |
| 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. 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 |
| Driving - Italy |
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Important: Please read the following information about your car rental carefully Vehicle Pickup: Vehicle rentals must be picked up during office hours and within one hour from the scheduled pickup time listed on your voucher. Flights must be arranged in accordance with office hours, and should arrive no later than 1.5 hours prior to office closing time. Office hours of each location are listed here: https://www.gate1travel.com/italy-travel/car-rental/office-hours.aspx. Please note that office hours are subject to change on Italian bank holidays. Not all of the Maggiore pickup locations are located in the airport, some may require you to take a shuttle to a different location. The location of the vehicle pickup counter can be found here https://www.gate1travel.com/car-rental/maggiore-vehicle-pickup-locations Vehicle Drop-off: If it is necessary to drop the vehicle off prior to the rental location's office hours, please inform the car rental agent when picking up the car to make alternate return arrangements. The car rental representative will provide instructions on how and where to leave the car. This service is only available at Italy airport locations. |
| Driving - Italy |
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Important: Please read the following information about your car rental carefully Vehicle Pickup: Vehicle rentals must be picked up during office hours and within one hour from the scheduled pickup time listed on your voucher. Flights must be arranged in accordance with office hours, and should arrive no later than 1.5 hours prior to office closing time. Office hours of each location are listed here: https://www.gate1travel.com/car-rental/italy-budget-hours. Please note that office hours are subject to change on Italian bank holidays. Not all of the Budget pickup locations are located in the airport, some may require you to take a free shuttle to a different location. The location of the vehicle pickup counter can be found here https://www.gate1travel.com/car-rental/budget-pickup-locations/ Vehicle Drop-off: If it is necessary to drop the vehicle off prior to the rental location's office hours, please inform the car rental agent when picking up the car to make alternate return arrangements. The car rental representative will provide instructions on how and where to leave the car. This service is only available at Italy airport locations. |
| Rental Duration: Vehicle rental is based upon consecutive 24 hour periods. Additional time will be billed and payable locally. The full daily rate will be charged after 29 minutes. There will be no refunds for late pick-up or early return. Rates do not include fuel. After the duration of the rental, the vehicle must be returned in the same condition in which it was received or additional fees may apply. Driver Registration: The driver of the vehicle must be older than 25 years old and hold a major credit card in their name that is accepted internationally. Electron, rechargeable, revolving credit cards, and debit cards are not accepted. This credit card must have sufficient funds to cover the deposit (see below). Please plan to use a Visa, MasterCard, or American Express credit card for your car rental as other cards are not widely recognized in Italy. A valid drivers license issued a minimum of 12 months prior to rental is required. An International driving license is required for renters who do not present a European Union driver's license. Drivers must carry their license from their country of origin as well as the International driving license. Additional drivers may be added at the approximate cost of 10 Euros per driver per day, payable locally. Only drivers registered on the rental contract will be eligible for insurance coverage. Vehicle Security Pre-Authorization Charge: At the time of rental, a pre-authorization charge will be obtained on a major credit card in the approximate amount of the first tank of fuel and optional equipment, approximately 250-500 Euros. The credit card must have sufficient credit to cover these fees. The charge will be held on your card until the vehicle is returned. Debit, Electron, or Prepaid cards are not accepted. Inspect Your Vehicle It is important to thoroughly inspect your vehicle before leaving the lot to avoid being held responsible for any damage to the rental car, other than normal wear-and-tear. Walk around the vehicle with the sales agent before driving off. Inspect the vehicle for existing dents, scratches, or other potential damage, and make sure that anything you find is noted on the contract. If the vehicle is unsatisfactory for any reason, request an exchange before leaving the lot. Snow Chains: As per government regulation, all cars will be equipped with snow chains from approximately November to April. Payment for snow chains will be collected locally and cost approximately 8.60 Euros per day with a maximum charge of 43 Euros per rental. Snow chains will be mandatory for all rentals with pick up or drop off at the following locations: -Venice Airport -Venice Mestre -Milan Malpensa Airport -Milan Linate Airport -Bologna Marconi Airport Vehicle Insurance: Car rental fees include Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), Theft Protection (TP), 3rd Party Liability, and Personal Accident Insurance (PAI). Additional Damage, Theft Protection and Personal Accident Insurance will be available at the time of car pick up and are also payable locally. Selections from these contracts may be found below. Coverage includes:
Vehicle Deductible: As outlined above, insurance to reduce your financial responsibility in the event of damage or theft to your vehicle while in your possession is included with your rental. Should you encounter one of these situations, you will still be subject to a deductible charge ranging from approximately 400 - 2,800 Euros, the exact amount is dependent on rental vehicle category. Optional additional insurances are available for purchase at the time of vehicle pick-up. Optional Additional Coverage includes:
Customer Care and Roadside Assistance: In the event of vehicle malfunction or an accident, the rental company must be contacted immediately. Failure to do so will compromise any claims for compensation. A customer care representative will be available 24 hours a day. If the vehicle is inoperable, request authorization to continue your trip with alternative transportation, you will be provided with an authorization number which can be used to pick up a replacement vehicle at the nearest rental car location. You may reach Budget Car Rental Roadside Assistance via an Italian phone through their toll free number 800-801-180, or from an international phone at +39 02 58240477. Emergency Assistance is available for the following:
In the case of an accident: Be sure to fill out the incident report form completely and have it signed by all parties involved. Safety: IMPORTANT: Do not leave luggage, passports, or any valuable objects inside an unattended vehicle. In case of a flat tire, call for assistance. Do not accept help from strangers, as this is sometimes a ploy to try to steal valuables from the vehicle. Road Conditions: Driving in Italy is very different than driving in the United States. The Italian expressway, or Autostrada has a 130 kph (80 mph) speed limit. Both city roads and expressways are filled with many scooters, bicycles, and smaller vehicles. These smaller vehicles are given the same road privileges as an automobile. If you have a driver's license from the United States, you must obtain an International Driving Permit that will enable you to drive in Italy for up to a year. It is also important to become familiar with local traffic laws of the areas you are visiting. Italy has two types of automated devices for monitoring speeding: Autovelox and Sistema Tutor. Both use a camera to take a photo of your license plate if you are speeding. You may receive a ticket in the mail or from the rental car company as much as a year later. Be aware of, and do not drive into, any limited traffic zones in city centers that require a special permit to enter such as a Zona Traffico Limitato (ZTL) or Area Pedonale. There are cameras that will take a photo of your license plate if you drive into these zones. As with speeding, you can receive a fine later on in the mail even if you are not stopped at the time of the incident. Upon exiting any toll road in Italy, it is important not to drive through any of the automatic toll collection lanes marked as TELEPASS, as you will be fined for this. Drive into any lane with an attendant and pay the necessary toll in either Euro or credit card. Some roads, are narrow and frequently have sharp turns. Traffic can back up easily during rainy weather. In remote locations, streets may not be properly maintained. In these situations we recommend trying to find an alternative route. As always, it is important to pay attention to road conditions and drive carefully. Taking the vehicle into Switzerland Driving in Switzerland requires a vignette for the motorways. The motorway tax sticker costs approximately 40 Swiss Franc (CHF) and can be purchased at gas and rest stops on the main roads leading to Switzerland (close to customs), in post offices or directly at the custom entry point. It is important to affix the motorway vignette to the inside of your windshield or you risk a fine. Parking: Street parking is available in most areas of Italy and designated by the color of the lines. Generally, parking spaces marked in blue lines require payment to park. A ticket will need to be purchased from a nearby parking machine and displayed in the window of the car. Certain hotels sell tickets for public street parking or have private parking facilities available. Generally, parking spaces marked in white are free but may have certain restrictions. Refer to signs to avoid tickets or fines. Yellow lines are specifically designated parking areas and off limits to public parking. GPS Systems and Cellular Phones: We recommend the use of a navigation system such as a navigation app on your personal mobile device or a GPS system while driving in Italy. In our experience, mobile apps, such as Google Maps or Waze, are the more reliable and user friendly options. An international data plan is necessary to utilize GPS on your mobile device. Contact your cell phone's service provider to check if international coverage is available. Personal Wi-Fi devices or cell phones may also be rented locally (subject to availability). A GPS system for your vehicle can be rented locally from Maggiore (subject to availability) at the approximate cost of 18.50 Euros per day. Please note that these devices may only provide turn by turn instructions via a map system, an audio guide is not guaranteed. In remote locations, sometimes navigation systems will recommend using streets that may not be properly maintained. In these situations we recommend trying to find an alternative route. As always, it is important to pay attention to road conditions and drive carefully. Post Travel: After the termination of your car rental, you may potentially incur additional fees related to services or charges that are not included with your Gate 1 package. Examples of these may include, but are not limited to, supplement for additional drivers, elected additional insurance, traffic violations, damage to the vehicle, or returning the vehicle with low fuel. These fees are payable directly to the car rental company and it is the your responsibility to contact the car rental company regarding such charges. These fees are not dictated or processed by Gate 1 Travel. Additionally, For your protection, we recommend you retain any and all documentation received at the counter from the car rental agency until you return home and are certain there are no more charges from the agency. Without it, we may not be able to assist should a dispute arise. |
| Italy - The Euro is the currency of Italy. Italian bank opening hours are typically Monday through Friday, 9am to 1pm depending on the bank. Most Italian banks do not offer exchange service. For this reason, it is strongly recommended to acquire a small amount of Euros prior to arriving. ATM machines are a better option. |
| 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. |
| Italy - Shops are generally open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 3:00 to 8:00 p.m., with some variations in Northern Italy, where the lunch break is shorter and shops close earlier. In the major cities, large stores and souvenir shops remain open throughout the day. Italy is renowned for its fashion industry, with fine clothes for men and women, lacework, jewelry, and leather accessories. Other quality goods include ceramics, gold and silver items, alabaster, woodwork, embroidery, glass and crystal ware. Major credit cards are usually accepted, though cash is preferred for small purchases. |
| Your Safety is Very Important |
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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:
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| Security at Major Sites - Please expect longer wait times at major sightseeing locations due to heightened security restrictions. These locations include, but are not limited to, the San Marco Basilica in Venice, the Accademia in Florence, and the Colosseum & Vatican in Rome. Bags of any kind are no longer allowed inside the San Marco Basilica and large bags/backpacks are restricted from the Colosseum. We suggest you to carry only necessary items (i.e. wallet, cell phone, camera) safely on your body and leave all other valuables in the hotel room safe when visiting these sites. |
| Local Emergency Phone Numbers |
Italy
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| Languages |
| Italy - Italian is the local language. English is generally spoken in tourist areas. |
| Electricity |
| Please note: The U.S. uses 120 volts and you can purchase a converter and transformer at most hardware stores for your 120V appliances. |
| Italy - The voltage used is 220 volts. |
| Code of Conduct |
| Italy - Family and social ties are, broadly speaking, stronger in Italy than in other Western European countries, and the Roman Catholic church retains a strong cultural influence. Common courtesies should be practiced. Casual dress is appropriate, but beachwear should be confined to the beach and poolside. Conservative clothing should be worn when visiting religious buildings, meaning legs and shoulders should be covered. While the cities are very safe, pickpocketing can occur. Avoid conspicuous expensive jewelry and be mindful of your wallet or handbag. Even though many Italians smoke, smoking is prohibited in all public buildings, public transport, cinemas and restaurants. |
| Food and Meals |
| As specified in each itinerary. Meals are based on the hotel's or restaurant's buffet or set menu. In general, beverages are not included, unless specifically stated. Although Gate 1 cannot make guarantees, every effort will be made to honor special dietary requests submitted in writing at least 72 hours prior to departure at www.gate1travel.com/contactus. Terminology for dietary requests can vary from country to country and options may be limited. Therefore we recommend that you make your wishes known to your tour manager upon arrival, and at each hotel/restaurant. |
| Holidays |
| On public holidays, there may be reduced public transportation, as well as limited hours or closures of attractions, shops and restaurants. |
| Holidays - Italy |
Holidays 2023 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 6: Epiphany Apr 9: Easter Sunday Apr 10: Easter Monday Apr 25: Liberation Day May 1: Labor Day Jun 2: Republic Day Aug 15: Assumption of the Virgin Nov 1: All Saints Day Dec 8: Immaculate Conception Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Please note that in addition, local feast days are held in honor of town patron saints, generally without closure of shops and offices. These include: Parma: Jan 13-14 (St. Hilary of Poitiers), Aug 16-17 (St. Roch) & May 5 (St. Honoratus) Catania: Feb 3-5; Aug 17 (St. Agatha) Sorrento: Feb 14 (St. Antoninus) Agrigento: Feb 25 (St. Gerland) & Jun 18 (St. Calogerus) Como: Apr 2; Aug 31 (St. Abbondio) Ragusa: Apr 23 (St. George) Venice: Apr 25 (St. Mark) & Nov 11 (St. Martin's Day) Treviso: Apr 27 (St. Liberalis) & Mar 27; Aug 1; Aug 22 (St. Augusta) Baveno: Jun 19 (Sts. Gervasius & Protasius) Matera: Jun 20 (St. John) & Jul 2 (St. Madonna della Bruna) Florence, Genoa & Turin: Jun 24 (St John the Baptist) Amalfi: Jun 27; Nov 30 (St. Andrew) Rome: Jun 29 (St. Peter & Paul) Siena: Jul 2 & Aug 16, Palio horserace Taormina: Jul 8-9 (St. Pancras) Palermo: Jul 15 (St. Rosalia) Santa Margherita Ligure: July 20 (St. Margaret of Antiochia) Lecce: Aug 26 (St. Orontius) Naples: Sep 19 (St. Gennaro) Bologna: Oct 4 (St. Petronius) Trieste: Nov 3 (St. Giusto) Montecatini: Dec 4 (St. Barbara) Bari: Dec 6, May 7-9 (St. Nicholas) Milan & Stresa: Dec 7 (St. Ambrose) Siracusa: Dec 13 (St. Lucy) Holidays 2024 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 6: Epiphany Mar 31: Easter Sunday Apr 1: Easter Monday Apr 25: Liberation Day May 1: Labor Day Jun 2: Republic Day Aug 15: Assumption of the Virgin Mary / Ferragosto Nov 1: All Saints Day Dec 8: Immaculate Conception Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Please note that in addition, local feast days are held in honor of town patron saints, generally without closure of shops and offices. These include: Parma: Jan 13-14 (St. Hilary of Poitiers), Aug 16-17 (St. Roch) Catania: Feb 3-5 & Aug 17 (St. Agatha) Sorrento: Feb 14 (St. Antoninus) Agrigento: Feb 25 (St. Gerland) & July 7-July 14 (St. Calogerus) Como: Aug 31 (St. Abbondio) Ragusa: May 26 (St. George) Venice: Apr 25 (St. Mark) & Nov 11 (St. Martin's Day) Treviso: Apr 27 (St. Liberalis); Mar 27, Aug 1 & Aug 22 (St. Augusta) Baveno: Jun 19 (Sts. Gervasius & Protasius) Matera: Jun 20 (St. John) & Jul 2 (St. Madonna della Bruna) Florence, Genoa & Turin: Jun 24 (St John the Baptist) Amalfi: Jun 27; Nov 30 (Sant' Andrea) Rome: Jun 29 (St. Peter & Paul) Siena: Jul 2 & Aug 16, Palio horserace Taormina: Jul 8-9 (St. Pancras) Palermo: Jul 14-15 (St. Rosalia) Santa Margherita Ligure: July 20 (St. Margaret of Antiochia) Lecce: Aug 26 (St. Orontius) Naples: Sep 19 (St. Gennaro) Bologna: Oct 4 (St. Petronius) Trieste: Nov 3 (St. Giusto) Montecatini: Dec 4 (St. Barbara) Bari: Dec 6 & May 7-9 (St. Nicholas) Milan & Stresa: Dec 7 (St. Ambrose) Siracusa: Dec 13 (St. Lucy) |
| Papal Audiences, Vatican City - Italy |
| General audiences with His Holiness the Pope are usually held once a week (Wednesdays at 11 a.m.) in Vatican City. They may be held inside the Basilica itself or in the hall of the Papal Audiences (Aula Paolo VI, Seating 7000), and in summer in Saint Peter's Square or in the papal summer residence at Castel Gandolfo. Please note that Castel Gandolfo is located approximately 20 miles south-east of Rome, not in Vatican City. Catholics are requested to have a letter of introduction from their parish priest. For this audience women should dress modestly, with arms and head covered. Dress should be dark or subdued in color. Men are requested to wear a tie and jacket. |
| New Venice Visitor Tax Regulation - It was recently announced that the city of Venice will be implementing an entrance tax of 10 Euros per person for tourists visiting the city for the day. In most cases, the tax will be included in the cost of the transportation to access the city center, including cruise, taxi, or public transportation. However, there may be instances where visitors will need to pay the tax upon arrival. We regret that we are currently unable to collect this tax in advance. Due to the uncertainty of this new regulation the information above is subject to change. |
8 Day Tuscany Fly & Drive with Milan, November 2022
I recently stayed with you and I want to express my deepest thanks for a fantastic vacation that we will remember for the rest of our lives. Visiting Italy was a part of my bucket list and I didn't know what to expect other than a clean room and simple buffet breakfast. We got so much more. Every aspect of our visit was well above expectations. The staff was the best I have ever experienced. Professional, engaging and willing to do whatever they could to help. The cleaning staff was also terrific. They readily engaged with us and always brought a smile to my face. All of you will remain in my heart and I wish to extend my deepest wishes for all of you to live a long and fulfilling life. This Thanksgiving will be filled with many of the wonderful memories all of you have provided. Thanks so much for the memories. A very warm and wonderful Thanksgiving to all of you. I am in love with Italy and all of you made my dream a reality.
Duard H.8 Day Tuscany Fly & Drive with Milan, April 2022
Our trip to Tuscany was incredible. Flying with Emirates was incomparable for service and amenities. Staying at the Hotel Grand Plaza in Montecatini allowed us to experience Tuscany at our own pace. Riccardo and Mariano were amazing and we looked forward to our meals there. Everyone should take the funicular trip up to Montecatini Also as the views were fabulous and the history of the town is fantastic.
Martin F.8 Day Tuscany Fly & Drive with Milan, March 2019
It was great! We had a lovely time. I really enjoyed the kind-hearted people, rich history, scenic landscape and delicious food and wine! And thanks to Gate 1 Travel for a marvelous trip!
Kim S. Minneapolis, MN8 Day Tuscany Fly & Drive with Milan, November 2018
As usual I am blown away by Gate 1 Travel, the prices are unbeatable, they give you everything they promise, people are always very friendly from the moment you make the reservation and the people who help you plan the itinerary.
Erika F. Raytown, MO8 Day Tuscany Fly & Drive with Milan, February 2018
Best trip ever. Everything you promised and more. Airlines was fantastic, car rental was easy and fast and hotel was in the middle of town. Thank you for a great trip
Edwin D. Fairfax, VA8 Day Tuscany Fly & Drive with Milan , November 2016
Our Italy trip was absolutely fantastic from beginning to end. Genevieve and I loved everything and were most pleased with our hotel, our car (sporty Mercedes!) and our flights. the hotel staff was lovely and welcoming and the Gate 1 rep who was in our lobby each day helped so much with tips and ideas. we loved Montecatini and the girls loved the white marble piazza in front of the hotel, full of holiday lights. each night we left the doors open and fell asleep to music drifting up from the restaurants. we did lots of day trips...from biking the walls of Lucca to dipping our feet in the Mediterranean Sea at Monterosso. Florence was amazing as always and we watched the sunset over the Arno. while there, we did an oil and vinegar tasting in the San Mercato market, courtesy of our hired tour guide (recommended by your lovely Gate 1 rep) and enjoyed how uncrowded and beautiful the city looked, decorated for Christmas. We ended each day with Prosecco and gelato and snuggled into bed in anticipation of what the next day would hold. This trip was so well laid out by your company. our only question now is...where will you send us next?! we are open to suggestions and loved traveling on a budget with our daughters! (Ages 8 and 9).
Kristen W. Mechanicsburg, PA8 Day Tuscany Fly & Drive with Milan, November 2016
We had a fabulous time! We loved staying in Montecatini -- we were able to see Lucca, Pisa, Sienna, Florence, Milan, and drive along the coast by Cinque Terra on the way back to Milan. We saw the statue of David and visited a few vineyards for fabulous wine tastings. Everything went smoothly. This trip seemed too good to be true for the cost. I shouldn't have been skeptical, we had no issues with any of the hotels / flights or the rental car whatsoever (and the staff at the Grand Plaza Hotel was great!). I will use Gate 1 in the future 100%. I also want to say I contacted your customer service (to get the name on the car rental changed) and they were fabulous, it was no problem.
Heather M. Arlington, VA8 Day Tuscany Fly & Drive with Milan , October 2016
Our trip to Italy was terrific. Enjoyed having a car because of the freedom it provided. GPS we rented is dated so that would be my suggestion in way of improvements. Saw Florence , went by train, and drove to Lucca, Pisa, Siena, and San gimmy. Spent a restful day in montecani, took funiculare to alto and back. Discovered a great gelato store near the hotel San Marco and visited several times. Looked forward to breakfast every morning to greet and speak with other gate 1 folks. Met people we plan to stay in touch with. All in all we thoroughly enjoyed.
Ellen S. Sears, MI8 Day Italy & Switzerland Fly & Drive with Lucerne, October 2016
Our trip was AWESOME! As usual our experience with Gate 1 exceeded our expectations. Thank you for always offering affordable yet quality travel. We look forward to our next trip with Gate 1!
Vicky B. Centralia, WA8 Day Tuscany Fly & Drive with Milan , October 2016
Our trip was wonderful. The flight with Emirates was smooth and efficient. The car rental went off without a hitch (we were offered a hybrid which saved on gas.) The hotels were excellent with great breakfasts each morning.
David F. Crofton, MD8 Day Tuscany Fly & Drive with Milan, September 2016
Everything about our trip was simply amazing! It was smooth from start to finish and the car/hotel/flight package was exactly as described. We are still in awe of the great deal that was offered through Gate 1 and will be watching for future deals! The hotel was clean and comfortable, and in a perfect location to walk to shops and dining. The staff was friendly and helpful. Most of the hotel staff spoke English which was also a plus since we do not speak Italian. The car was very accommodating for four people and was not too difficult to locate once in Milan. All of the pre-travel tips offered by Gate 1 were extremely informative and appreciated! All in all, this was a perfect trip and we look forward to using Gate 1 again for our travel needs!!!
Teresa W. Gelena, OH8 Day Tuscany Fly & Drive with Milan, September 2016
Our trip was amazing, the hotel at Montecatini was very good. The airline and the overall experience couldn't have been better. For the price we paid more than expected. Your company will be highly recommend and gate one will our travel agency from now on. Thank you again for the wonderful package that you offered.
Sara M. East Elmhurst, NY8 Day Tuscany Fly & Drive with Milan, October 2015
Although we packed a lot in, we had a great time. Went to Venice, Sienna, Florence, Milan and three hill towns in Tuscany. Went on three boats, two round trip train rides, a short bus trip in Milan and drove 1500 km. Only wish we had had more time. Fantastic trip!
Stephen C. Omaha, NE