11 Day Kaleidoscope of Iceland
From
$3999
Land Only
$4669*
Air & Land
Featured Hotels
(Hotels may vary based on departure day of the week)
| Monday Departure | ||
|---|---|---|
| Fosshotel Reykjavik | Reykjavik | |
| Arnarstapi Hotel | Snaefellsbaer | |
| Fosshotel Stykkisholmur | Stykkisholmur | |
| Akureyri, Berjaya Iceland Hotels | Akureyri | |
| Myvatn, Berjaya Iceland Hotels | Myvatn | |
| Herad, Berjaya Iceland Hotels | Egilsstadir | |
| Hotel Breiddalsvik | Breiddalsvik | |
| Hotel Hofn | Hofn | |
| Landhotel | Hella | |
| Wednesday Departure | ||
|---|---|---|
| Fosshotel Reykjavik | Reykjavik | |
| Fosshotel Stykkisholmur | Stykkisholmur | |
| Akureyri, Berjaya Iceland Hotels | Akureyri | |
| Herad, Berjaya Iceland Hotels | Egilsstadir | |
| Hotel Hofn | Hofn | |
| Landhotel | Hella | |
| Grand Hotel Reykjavik | Reykjavik | |
| Saturday Departure | ||
|---|---|---|
| Fosshotel Reykjavik | Reykjavik | |
| Grand Hotel Reykjavik | Reykjavik | |
| Arnarstapi Hotel | Snaefellsbaer | |
| Fosshotel Stykkisholmur | Stykkisholmur | |
| Akureyri, Berjaya Iceland Hotels | Akureyri | |
| Herad, Berjaya Iceland Hotels | Egilsstadir | |
| Hotel Hofn | Hofn | |
| Landhotel | Hella | |
Click a Date to Book Online
Click a Date to Book Online
| 2023 Dates & Prices Single Supplement: $1100 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel | Dates | Embark | Tour Starts | Ship | Land Only | Air & Land |
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$4199 | $5439* | ||||
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$4199 | $5849* | ||||
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$4399 | $5989* | ||||
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$4299 | $5619* | ||||
| $4299 | $5889* | |||||
| $4449 | $6369* | |||||
| $4299 | $6219* | |||||
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$4449 | $6179* | ||||
| Only 1 seat left! | $4299 | $5639* | ||||
|
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$4349 | $5599* | ||||
|
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$4249 | $5329* | ||||
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$4349 | $5599* | ||||
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$4349 | $5469* | ||||
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$4249 | $4949* | ||||
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$4449 | $5699* | ||||
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$4099 | $4839* | ||||
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$4299 | $5459* | ||||
| Only 1 seat left! | $4449 | $5839* | ||||
|
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$4399 | $5449* | ||||
|
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$4399 | $5719* | ||||
|
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$4199 | $4869* | ||||
| Only 1 seat left! | $4449 | $5399* | ||||
|
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$3999 | $4669* | ||||
| $3999 | $4669* | |||||
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$4349 | $5159* | ||||
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$4149 | $4899* | ||||
| $4299 | $5009* | |||||
| $4299 | $5069* | |||||
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$4299 | $5019* | ||||
| Only 1 seat left! | $4349 | $5149* | ||||
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$4349 | $5149* | ||||
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$4399 | $5059* | ||||
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$4399 | $5199* | ||||
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$4399 | $5039* | ||||
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$4399 | $5029* | ||||
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$4299 | $4949* | ||||
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$4299 | $4969* | ||||
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$4199 | $4829* | ||||
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$4049 | $4699* | ||||
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$4049 | $4679* | ||||
Not Included:
Gratuities.
Additional Information:
Land only price does not include arrival/departure transfers.
Passengers should select flights that arrive no later than 8 AM on Day 2.
Passengers that have booked a pre night, will need to transfer by taxi to Viking World at their own expense.
Accommodation Details:
Triple rooms & twin with child rooms may be accommodated in a twin & single room depending on availability.
For Jun 6 & Aug 29 departures, the overnight will be in Myvatn instead of Akureyri.
Passengers traveling abroad require a passport valid for six months beyond their travel dates. All travelers are responsible to check if a visa is required for all countries on their itinerary. For visa information, check our Visas page.
Is This Trip Right for You?
Escorted Package Includes
- Round trip flights New York-Reykjavik, Reykjavik-New York
Other departure cities available. Click on date of departure for selection and prices - Airline taxes & fuel surcharges
- 9 nights accommodations
- 2 nights Reykjavik
- 1 night Snæfellsnes Peninsula
- 2 nights Akureyri or Myvatn
- 1 night Egilsstaðir
- 2 nights Höfn
- 1 night Hella
- Hotel taxes, fees & service charges
- All transfers included only with airfare purchase on package arrival & departure dates†
- 19 meals: 10 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 6 dinners with wine
- Sightseeing per itinerary in modern air-conditioned motor coach
- Services of English-speaking tour manager throughout
- Entrance fees per itinerary
Special Features
- Embark on a morning city tour of Reykjavik
- Enjoy the warm soothing waters of the world-famous geothermal Blue Lagoon
- Visit Snæfellsjökull National Park with its striking Snæfellsjökull Glacier
- Tour Akureyri, nestled at the head of Iceland’s greatest fjord
- Visit the historic town of Siglufjörður, the closest town to the Arctic Circle in Iceland
- View Lake Mývatn with its crystal-blue waters
- Visit Goðafoss, the "Waterfall of the Gods"
- See small fishing villages and rugged coastline of the remote Eastfjords region
- Visit Vatnajökull Glacier, the largest glacier in Europe
- Explore Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon with its immense floating icebergs
- Visit Skaftafell National Park, a beautiful mountainous region on the edge of the Vatnajökull Glacier
- Visit Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss, two awe-inspiring waterfalls on Iceland's South Coast
- Visit Strokkur Geyser and the geothermal Geysir area
- Tour Þingvellir National Park, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site
†Transfers are available for purchase for land only or on alternative flight dates
Is This Trip Right for You?
This fast-paced and active trip covers a lot of ground each day. Expect to spend two to three hours on your feet during tours where you will encounter some uneven surfaces, stairs, steps and significant slopes. Some light hiking is required to access some sites. Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable even in the summer time. Be prepared for cold, wet and windy weather. This tour is not recommended for people who have difficulty walking. Meals not included in your package may be expensive as most of Iceland’s food is imported. Please be aware that Iceland is an expensive destination. This is a Classic program. For more information, click here.
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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.
- 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. |
| Mobile Phones |
| Mobile networks differ from country to country. We recommend you check with your provider to see if your wireless plan will work in the destination(s) you are visiting. To avoid possible roaming charges, you may want to consider purchasing an international plan. With most major phone companies, for a modest fee, you will be able to use your domestic plan's talk, text, and data allowances just like you do at home. If you can access the internet while you travel, you can also take advantage of services such as WhatsApp or Skype. |
| Making Telephone Calls from One Country to Another |
| When dialing a number from one country to another, you should proceed as follows: dial your country's Exit Code (often indicated with a “+” sign), then the destination Country Code, then the Phone Number. For most countries, the exit code is 00. Exceptions include the USA and Canada (011), Hong Kong and Cambodia (001), Australia (0011), and Russia (8 Pause 10*). For Brazil, please consult with the local telephone company. If you are dialing from a mobile phone, you can enter a “+” instead of the international Exit Code (011, 001, 0011 or 00) by pressing and holding the 0 key. For most countries in Africa, Asia, Europe, South America and South Pacific, if you are calling from a local phone to a number within the same country, you should drop both the exit and country codes and then add a leading 0 (zero). Exceptions include Spain, Italy, Hungary and Malta (no additional zero needed to dial locally). Example: To dial the following number in Germany (as listed on your voucher): +(49) 0555-555 From USA or your US cell phone: 011-49-555-555 From another country in Europe: 00-49-555-555 From a German phone within Germany: 0555-555 |
| WiFi Access |
| WiFi is available in most airports, hotels, and cruise lines, as well as on some flights, trains, and buses. There may be a fee for access and service quality and speed may vary greatly especially while on moving vehicles. Availability on cruises is also dependent upon its location while sailing through multiple countries. Please note that WiFi can be extremely slow, unreliable, and sometimes nonexistent in developing countries. |
| Staying Healthy While Traveling |
| All travelers should familiarize themselves with local conditions, such as high altitude or required immunizations, which could affect their health. We recommend you consult with your personal healthcare provider, the Centers for Disease Control (www.cdc.gov) and/or the World Health Organization (http://www.who.int/en/) for their recommendations. There are several easy steps you can take to stay healthy while traveling which may help prevent contracting an illness while away from home.
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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 |
| Iceland - Spring and Fall: 30-50°F; Summer: 50-60°F; Winter: 25-35°F. Daylight hours will vary significantly throughout the year. Between April - August, daylight will range from 15-22 hours. Between November - February, daylight will range from 4-7 hours. In March, September and October, daylight will range from 9-13 hours. Bring comfortable walking shoes and hiking boots, a sweater, clothes you can layer, an all-weather jacket, and an umbrella. Gloves/mittens, a waterproof parka, a hat, and waterproof hiking boots with good treads and warm socks are essential when visiting during winter. Ice grips or non-slip cleats which fit over shoes or boots are also strongly suggested. A flashlight is recommended for Northern Lights excursions. Be sure to pack your swimsuit if you plan to visit the Blue Lagoon. Iceland Average Temperatures: https://www.gate1travel.com/weather/europe#iceland-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. |
| 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. |
| Iceland - Flights within Iceland have a weight restriction for luggage of 44 lbs. per piece of luggage with a limit of one piece of checked luggage per person. Each passenger is also permitted one piece of hand luggage with a weight restriction of 13.2 lbs. This differs from some international flight luggage limits and should be taken into account when preparing for your trip. |
| 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. |
| Iceland - Check-in time for Iceland Hotels is usually no earlier than 2 pm. Check out time is usually 12 noon but can be earlier. Please confirm with your hotel locally. Most flights arrive in the early morning hours, and including arrival procedures and transportation to your hotel, you will likely arrive between 8 and 9 am. Some local hotels, aware of this flight schedule, offer early check-in (space-available) for a fee. Alternately you can ask your hotel to store your luggage, and give you some freedom to roam on your own. Breakfast is not included on arrival day. Therefore in order to save on high local food costs, we suggest you pack granola bars or small snacks. Please note that some hotels in Iceland, especially in the countryside, do not offer a porter service. In these cases, you will be responsible for bring your luggage to your room. |
| Iceland Hotels - Icelandic hotels are typically sparsely designed, yet functional, reflecting the understated Nordic lifestyle. Guest room amenities are similarly minimalistic often lacking items one might expect in European hotels such as bath mats, elaborate toiletry selections, luggage racks, in-room safe and air-conditioning. |
| At Your Destination |
| Iceland’s Growing Pains |
| Recent interest in Iceland has had a tremendous impact on Iceland’s infrastructure, from accommodations to airline capacity. A country of just 350,000 citizens has now exceeded that number in annual visiting tourists. No country in the world has experienced such growth over such a short period. And although Gate 1 is a leader in bringing tourists to Iceland, these issues are simply beyond our control. We encourage you to understand what you may face during your travels and to be patient and understanding of these growing pains. The country simply cannot keep up with the demand and for that reason you will find development in every aspect. The airport in undergoing major construction to accommodate new carriers anxious to bring travelers from all parts of the globe. Expect crowds and some disorganization upon arrival. Restaurants do their best to keep up with demand and more are being added. Independent travelers are encouraged to make reservations well in advance. A shortage of trained tour guides may result in a somewhat less organized tour, not as prompt and precise as you are accustomed to on other Gate 1 tours. However, like all Icelanders we’ve encountered, they are extremely friendly, even if less understanding of the needs of tourists. Even public bathroom facilities are being stressed to capacity. All of these changes and improvements, in a country that has the highest cost of living in the world, take time and we ask for your kind understanding. It is our belief that the destination’s worth outweighs these inconveniences. |
| Eco & Sustainable Tourism |
| We support global efforts to create a more eco-friendly world, intolerant of any forms of cruelty, abuse and intentional environmental destruction. To that end we ask that our clients maintain a watchful eye as they travel, and report any abuses they may encounter. One of the many benefits of tourism is the shared cultural knowledge and ultimate elimination of negative behavior through education. We rely on your good feedback to enable this element of symbiosis. As you travel and learn about foreign cultures, we ask first and foremost that you practice tolerance and respect for local customs. |
| Gratuities |
| Tipping is always a matter of personal discretion. For your convenience, please use the summary below as a guideline for recommended gratuity amounts. Gratuities may be paid in local currency or US dollar equivalent where accepted. Please be aware that tipping is considered by many locals to be a part of their normal remuneration and some may approach you for additional "compensation." There is no need to be intimidated by the request, nor should you feel pressured to pay more than recommended. If you become uncomfortable by any behavior you encounter, please advise your tour manager or phone our local office. Numbers are provided in your documents for your convenience. |
| Suggested Tipping: Escorted Tours |
Tour Manager (Coordinator; may or may not act as a guide): US $10 per person per day Driver (Provides chauffeur services and limited assistance with luggage): US $5 per person per day, US $3 per half day Local Guide (Offers in-depth information at specific locations. There may be one or many guides along a tour program): US $5 per person per day of sightseeing, US $3 per half day Hotel porters and wait staff: Included |
| Iceland - Gratuities are not expected for services including hotels, restaurants and taxis. However, if you feel that a service deserves a gratuity, a modest tip will be appreciated. |
| About Your Sightseeing |
| To ensure a pleasant and fair experience for passengers on our escorted tours, there is a mandatory seat rotation policy on our motor coaches which will be organized by your Tour Manager. On river cruises, color-coded group splits may be used for shoreside included and Optional tours. Some buses are equipped with toilet facility, however they are strictly intended for emergency use only and often require the vehicle to stop for safety reasons before use. When travel dates coincide with religious holidays and national celebrations, some monuments and sites may be closed, sometimes without prior notice. On these occasions, escorted touring itineraries may be amended to reflect these closures. Occasionally, during holidays and certain periods, and/or due to other unforeseen circumstances including weather conditions, there may be last-minute changes, sometimes after arrival, which may affect the sequence of the tour and locations visited. National monuments and tourist sites regularly undergo renovations, which can obscure the monument's view. No tour will be canceled due to renovations, however Gate 1 will decide based on the conditions whether to amend an itinerary. To respect the privacy of all tour participants, your tour manager will not organize a group photo or collect passenger email addresses for a group list. |
| Iceland |
| For Winter programs in Iceland, emergency restrooms on the coaches are not available and bathroom facilities on the hunt for the Northern lights are limited. |
| 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 |
| Iceland - The Icelandic Krona is the currency of Iceland. |
| 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. |
| Iceland - Among the most popular items from Iceland are handwoven woolen goods, high quality wood carvings, eiderdown duvets and pillows, and fine jewelry. |
| Expenses |
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Iceland - Some find Iceland expensive when compared to the USA. Aside from food and textiles grown and produced locally, most items are necessarily imported and therefore expensive. When choosing dining spots, stick to those who offer locally produced fresh foods, like seafood, lamb, organically grown vegetables and dairy. |
| 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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| Local Emergency Phone Numbers |
Iceland
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| Languages |
| Iceland - Icelandic is the local language. English is widely spoken. |
| 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. |
| Iceland - The voltage used is 220 volts. |
| Code of Conduct |
| Iceland - Shaking hands is the standard greeting. Normal social courtesies should be observed. Smoking is prohibited in public buildings, buses, and other public transportation. |
| Meals & Dietary Requests |
| Included meals are based on the restaurant's buffet or set menu. Beverages are not included, unless specifically stated. Although special diets like Vegetarian and Vegan are relatively commonplace in the USA, much of the world's menu options are more provincial. Please do not expect to find the variety of food selection outside of the local norm. Every effort will be made to honor special dietary requests selected no later than 5 days prior to departure in the passenger details section of your reservation. In addition, we recommend that you make preferences known to your tour manager upon arrival, and at each hotel/restaurant. |
| Holidays |
| On public holidays, there may be reduced public transportation, as well as limited hours or closures of attractions, shops and restaurants. |
| Holidays - Iceland |
Holidays 2023 Jan 1: New Year's Day Apr 6: Maundy Thursday Apr 7: Good Friday Apr 9: Easter Apr 10: Easter Monday Apr 20: First Day of Summer May 1: Labour Day May 18: Ascension Day May 28: Whit Sunday May 29: Whit Monday Jun 17: Independence Day Aug 7: Commerce Day Dec 24: Christmas Eve Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: 2nd Day of Christmas Dec 31: New Year's Eve Holidays 2024 Jan 1: New Year's Day Mar 28: Maundy Thursday Mar 29: Good Friday Mar 31: Easter Apr 1: Easter Monday Apr 25: First Day of Summer May 1: Labour Day May 9: Ascension Day May 19: Whit Sunday May 20: Whit Monday Jun 17: Independence Day/Republic Day Aug 5: Commerce Day Dec 24: Christmas Eve Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: 2nd Day of Christmas Dec 31: New Year's Eve |
| Reykjavik Bus Stop System - In response to increased traffic in Reykjavik, the Reykjavik City Council implemented a new law limiting bus traffic in the central part of the city. For guests staying at hotels in the bus-free zone, pick up and drop off for transfers and tours are serviced from several official bus stops. Each hotel is assigned to a bus stop that is no more than a few minutes walk away. If your hotel is not listed on the following map, then it is serviced by direct hotel pick up and drop off. Printable map of central Reykjavik hotels and bus stops: https://www.gate1travel.com/hotel-stays/reykjavik-bus-stops. |
| 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. |
| Mobile Phones |
| Mobile networks differ from country to country. We recommend you check with your provider to see if your wireless plan will work in the destination(s) you are visiting. To avoid possible roaming charges, you may want to consider purchasing an international plan. With most major phone companies, for a modest fee, you will be able to use your domestic plan's talk, text, and data allowances just like you do at home. If you can access the internet while you travel, you can also take advantage of services such as WhatsApp or Skype. |
| Making Telephone Calls from One Country to Another |
| When dialing a number from one country to another, you should proceed as follows: dial your country's Exit Code (often indicated with a “+” sign), then the destination Country Code, then the Phone Number. For most countries, the exit code is 00. Exceptions include the USA and Canada (011), Hong Kong and Cambodia (001), Australia (0011), and Russia (8 Pause 10*). For Brazil, please consult with the local telephone company. If you are dialing from a mobile phone, you can enter a “+” instead of the international Exit Code (011, 001, 0011 or 00) by pressing and holding the 0 key. For most countries in Africa, Asia, Europe, South America and South Pacific, if you are calling from a local phone to a number within the same country, you should drop both the exit and country codes and then add a leading 0 (zero). Exceptions include Spain, Italy, Hungary and Malta (no additional zero needed to dial locally). Example: To dial the following number in Germany (as listed on your voucher): +(49) 0555-555 From USA or your US cell phone: 011-49-555-555 From another country in Europe: 00-49-555-555 From a German phone within Germany: 0555-555 |
| WiFi Access |
| WiFi is available in most airports, hotels, and cruise lines, as well as on some flights, trains, and buses. There may be a fee for access and service quality and speed may vary greatly especially while on moving vehicles. Availability on cruises is also dependent upon its location while sailing through multiple countries. Please note that WiFi can be extremely slow, unreliable, and sometimes nonexistent in developing countries. |
| Staying Healthy While Traveling |
| All travelers should familiarize themselves with local conditions, such as high altitude or required immunizations, which could affect their health. We recommend you consult with your personal healthcare provider, the Centers for Disease Control (www.cdc.gov) and/or the World Health Organization (http://www.who.int/en/) for their recommendations. There are several easy steps you can take to stay healthy while traveling which may help prevent contracting an illness while away from home.
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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 |
| Iceland - Spring and Fall: 30-50°F; Summer: 50-60°F; Winter: 25-35°F. Daylight hours will vary significantly throughout the year. Between April - August, daylight will range from 15-22 hours. Between November - February, daylight will range from 4-7 hours. In March, September and October, daylight will range from 9-13 hours. Bring comfortable walking shoes and hiking boots, a sweater, clothes you can layer, an all-weather jacket, and an umbrella. Gloves/mittens, a waterproof parka, a hat, and waterproof hiking boots with good treads and warm socks are essential when visiting during winter. Ice grips or non-slip cleats which fit over shoes or boots are also strongly suggested. A flashlight is recommended for Northern Lights excursions. Be sure to pack your swimsuit if you plan to visit the Blue Lagoon. Iceland Average Temperatures: https://www.gate1travel.com/weather/europe#iceland-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. |
| 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. |
| Iceland - Flights within Iceland have a weight restriction for luggage of 44 lbs. per piece of luggage with a limit of one piece of checked luggage per person. Each passenger is also permitted one piece of hand luggage with a weight restriction of 13.2 lbs. This differs from some international flight luggage limits and should be taken into account when preparing for your trip. |
| 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. |
| Iceland - Check-in time for Iceland Hotels is usually no earlier than 2 pm. Check out time is usually 12 noon but can be earlier. Please confirm with your hotel locally. Most flights arrive in the early morning hours, and including arrival procedures and transportation to your hotel, you will likely arrive between 8 and 9 am. Some local hotels, aware of this flight schedule, offer early check-in (space-available) for a fee. Alternately you can ask your hotel to store your luggage, and give you some freedom to roam on your own. Breakfast is not included on arrival day. Therefore in order to save on high local food costs, we suggest you pack granola bars or small snacks. Please note that some hotels in Iceland, especially in the countryside, do not offer a porter service. In these cases, you will be responsible for bring your luggage to your room. |
| Iceland Hotels - Icelandic hotels are typically sparsely designed, yet functional, reflecting the understated Nordic lifestyle. Guest room amenities are similarly minimalistic often lacking items one might expect in European hotels such as bath mats, elaborate toiletry selections, luggage racks, in-room safe and air-conditioning. |
| At Your Destination |
| Iceland’s Growing Pains |
| Recent interest in Iceland has had a tremendous impact on Iceland’s infrastructure, from accommodations to airline capacity. A country of just 350,000 citizens has now exceeded that number in annual visiting tourists. No country in the world has experienced such growth over such a short period. And although Gate 1 is a leader in bringing tourists to Iceland, these issues are simply beyond our control. We encourage you to understand what you may face during your travels and to be patient and understanding of these growing pains. The country simply cannot keep up with the demand and for that reason you will find development in every aspect. The airport in undergoing major construction to accommodate new carriers anxious to bring travelers from all parts of the globe. Expect crowds and some disorganization upon arrival. Restaurants do their best to keep up with demand and more are being added. Independent travelers are encouraged to make reservations well in advance. A shortage of trained tour guides may result in a somewhat less organized tour, not as prompt and precise as you are accustomed to on other Gate 1 tours. However, like all Icelanders we’ve encountered, they are extremely friendly, even if less understanding of the needs of tourists. Even public bathroom facilities are being stressed to capacity. All of these changes and improvements, in a country that has the highest cost of living in the world, take time and we ask for your kind understanding. It is our belief that the destination’s worth outweighs these inconveniences. |
| Eco & Sustainable Tourism |
| We support global efforts to create a more eco-friendly world, intolerant of any forms of cruelty, abuse and intentional environmental destruction. To that end we ask that our clients maintain a watchful eye as they travel, and report any abuses they may encounter. One of the many benefits of tourism is the shared cultural knowledge and ultimate elimination of negative behavior through education. We rely on your good feedback to enable this element of symbiosis. As you travel and learn about foreign cultures, we ask first and foremost that you practice tolerance and respect for local customs. |
| Gratuities |
| Tipping is always a matter of personal discretion. For your convenience, please use the summary below as a guideline for recommended gratuity amounts. Gratuities may be paid in local currency or US dollar equivalent where accepted. Please be aware that tipping is considered by many locals to be a part of their normal remuneration and some may approach you for additional "compensation." There is no need to be intimidated by the request, nor should you feel pressured to pay more than recommended. If you become uncomfortable by any behavior you encounter, please advise your tour manager or phone our local office. Numbers are provided in your documents for your convenience. |
| Suggested Tipping: Escorted Tours |
Tour Manager (Coordinator; may or may not act as a guide): US $10 per person per day Driver (Provides chauffeur services and limited assistance with luggage): US $5 per person per day, US $3 per half day Local Guide (Offers in-depth information at specific locations. There may be one or many guides along a tour program): US $5 per person per day of sightseeing, US $3 per half day Hotel porters and wait staff: Included |
| Iceland - Gratuities are not expected for services including hotels, restaurants and taxis. However, if you feel that a service deserves a gratuity, a modest tip will be appreciated. |
| About Your Sightseeing |
| To ensure a pleasant and fair experience for passengers on our escorted tours, there is a mandatory seat rotation policy on our motor coaches which will be organized by your Tour Manager. On river cruises, color-coded group splits may be used for shoreside included and Optional tours. Some buses are equipped with toilet facility, however they are strictly intended for emergency use only and often require the vehicle to stop for safety reasons before use. When travel dates coincide with religious holidays and national celebrations, some monuments and sites may be closed, sometimes without prior notice. On these occasions, escorted touring itineraries may be amended to reflect these closures. Occasionally, during holidays and certain periods, and/or due to other unforeseen circumstances including weather conditions, there may be last-minute changes, sometimes after arrival, which may affect the sequence of the tour and locations visited. National monuments and tourist sites regularly undergo renovations, which can obscure the monument's view. No tour will be canceled due to renovations, however Gate 1 will decide based on the conditions whether to amend an itinerary. To respect the privacy of all tour participants, your tour manager will not organize a group photo or collect passenger email addresses for a group list. |
| Iceland |
| For Winter programs in Iceland, emergency restrooms on the coaches are not available and bathroom facilities on the hunt for the Northern lights are limited. |
| 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 |
| Iceland - The Icelandic Krona is the currency of Iceland. |
| 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. |
| Iceland - Among the most popular items from Iceland are handwoven woolen goods, high quality wood carvings, eiderdown duvets and pillows, and fine jewelry. |
| Expenses |
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Iceland - Some find Iceland expensive when compared to the USA. Aside from food and textiles grown and produced locally, most items are necessarily imported and therefore expensive. When choosing dining spots, stick to those who offer locally produced fresh foods, like seafood, lamb, organically grown vegetables and dairy. |
| 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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| Local Emergency Phone Numbers |
Iceland
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| Languages |
| Iceland - Icelandic is the local language. English is widely spoken. |
| 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. |
| Iceland - The voltage used is 220 volts. |
| Code of Conduct |
| Iceland - Shaking hands is the standard greeting. Normal social courtesies should be observed. Smoking is prohibited in public buildings, buses, and other public transportation. |
| Meals & Dietary Requests |
| Included meals are based on the restaurant's buffet or set menu. Beverages are not included, unless specifically stated. Although special diets like Vegetarian and Vegan are relatively commonplace in the USA, much of the world's menu options are more provincial. Please do not expect to find the variety of food selection outside of the local norm. Every effort will be made to honor special dietary requests selected no later than 5 days prior to departure in the passenger details section of your reservation. In addition, we recommend that you make preferences known to your tour manager upon arrival, and at each hotel/restaurant. |
| Holidays |
| On public holidays, there may be reduced public transportation, as well as limited hours or closures of attractions, shops and restaurants. |
| Holidays - Iceland |
Holidays 2023 Jan 1: New Year's Day Apr 6: Maundy Thursday Apr 7: Good Friday Apr 9: Easter Apr 10: Easter Monday Apr 20: First Day of Summer May 1: Labour Day May 18: Ascension Day May 28: Whit Sunday May 29: Whit Monday Jun 17: Independence Day Aug 7: Commerce Day Dec 24: Christmas Eve Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: 2nd Day of Christmas Dec 31: New Year's Eve Holidays 2024 Jan 1: New Year's Day Mar 28: Maundy Thursday Mar 29: Good Friday Mar 31: Easter Apr 1: Easter Monday Apr 25: First Day of Summer May 1: Labour Day May 9: Ascension Day May 19: Whit Sunday May 20: Whit Monday Jun 17: Independence Day/Republic Day Aug 5: Commerce Day Dec 24: Christmas Eve Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: 2nd Day of Christmas Dec 31: New Year's Eve |
| Reykjavik Bus Stop System - In response to increased traffic in Reykjavik, the Reykjavik City Council implemented a new law limiting bus traffic in the central part of the city. For guests staying at hotels in the bus-free zone, pick up and drop off for transfers and tours are serviced from several official bus stops. Each hotel is assigned to a bus stop that is no more than a few minutes walk away. If your hotel is not listed on the following map, then it is serviced by direct hotel pick up and drop off. Printable map of central Reykjavik hotels and bus stops: https://www.gate1travel.com/hotel-stays/reykjavik-bus-stops. |
| 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. |
| Mobile Phones |
| Mobile networks differ from country to country. We recommend you check with your provider to see if your wireless plan will work in the destination(s) you are visiting. To avoid possible roaming charges, you may want to consider purchasing an international plan. With most major phone companies, for a modest fee, you will be able to use your domestic plan's talk, text, and data allowances just like you do at home. If you can access the internet while you travel, you can also take advantage of services such as WhatsApp or Skype. |
| Making Telephone Calls from One Country to Another |
| When dialing a number from one country to another, you should proceed as follows: dial your country's Exit Code (often indicated with a “+” sign), then the destination Country Code, then the Phone Number. For most countries, the exit code is 00. Exceptions include the USA and Canada (011), Hong Kong and Cambodia (001), Australia (0011), and Russia (8 Pause 10*). For Brazil, please consult with the local telephone company. If you are dialing from a mobile phone, you can enter a “+” instead of the international Exit Code (011, 001, 0011 or 00) by pressing and holding the 0 key. For most countries in Africa, Asia, Europe, South America and South Pacific, if you are calling from a local phone to a number within the same country, you should drop both the exit and country codes and then add a leading 0 (zero). Exceptions include Spain, Italy, Hungary and Malta (no additional zero needed to dial locally). Example: To dial the following number in Germany (as listed on your voucher): +(49) 0555-555 From USA or your US cell phone: 011-49-555-555 From another country in Europe: 00-49-555-555 From a German phone within Germany: 0555-555 |
| WiFi Access |
| WiFi is available in most airports, hotels, and cruise lines, as well as on some flights, trains, and buses. There may be a fee for access and service quality and speed may vary greatly especially while on moving vehicles. Availability on cruises is also dependent upon its location while sailing through multiple countries. Please note that WiFi can be extremely slow, unreliable, and sometimes nonexistent in developing countries. |
| Staying Healthy While Traveling |
| All travelers should familiarize themselves with local conditions, such as high altitude or required immunizations, which could affect their health. We recommend you consult with your personal healthcare provider, the Centers for Disease Control (www.cdc.gov) and/or the World Health Organization (http://www.who.int/en/) for their recommendations. There are several easy steps you can take to stay healthy while traveling which may help prevent contracting an illness while away from home.
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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 |
| Iceland - Spring and Fall: 30-50°F; Summer: 50-60°F; Winter: 25-35°F. Daylight hours will vary significantly throughout the year. Between April - August, daylight will range from 15-22 hours. Between November - February, daylight will range from 4-7 hours. In March, September and October, daylight will range from 9-13 hours. Bring comfortable walking shoes and hiking boots, a sweater, clothes you can layer, an all-weather jacket, and an umbrella. Gloves/mittens, a waterproof parka, a hat, and waterproof hiking boots with good treads and warm socks are essential when visiting during winter. Ice grips or non-slip cleats which fit over shoes or boots are also strongly suggested. A flashlight is recommended for Northern Lights excursions. Be sure to pack your swimsuit if you plan to visit the Blue Lagoon. Iceland Average Temperatures: https://www.gate1travel.com/weather/europe#iceland-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. |
| 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. |
| Iceland - Flights within Iceland have a weight restriction for luggage of 44 lbs. per piece of luggage with a limit of one piece of checked luggage per person. Each passenger is also permitted one piece of hand luggage with a weight restriction of 13.2 lbs. This differs from some international flight luggage limits and should be taken into account when preparing for your trip. |
| 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. |
| Iceland - Check-in time for Iceland Hotels is usually no earlier than 2 pm. Check out time is usually 12 noon but can be earlier. Please confirm with your hotel locally. Most flights arrive in the early morning hours, and including arrival procedures and transportation to your hotel, you will likely arrive between 8 and 9 am. Some local hotels, aware of this flight schedule, offer early check-in (space-available) for a fee. Alternately you can ask your hotel to store your luggage, and give you some freedom to roam on your own. Breakfast is not included on arrival day. Therefore in order to save on high local food costs, we suggest you pack granola bars or small snacks. Please note that some hotels in Iceland, especially in the countryside, do not offer a porter service. In these cases, you will be responsible for bring your luggage to your room. |
| Iceland Hotels - Icelandic hotels are typically sparsely designed, yet functional, reflecting the understated Nordic lifestyle. Guest room amenities are similarly minimalistic often lacking items one might expect in European hotels such as bath mats, elaborate toiletry selections, luggage racks, in-room safe and air-conditioning. |
| At Your Destination |
| Iceland’s Growing Pains |
| Recent interest in Iceland has had a tremendous impact on Iceland’s infrastructure, from accommodations to airline capacity. A country of just 350,000 citizens has now exceeded that number in annual visiting tourists. No country in the world has experienced such growth over such a short period. And although Gate 1 is a leader in bringing tourists to Iceland, these issues are simply beyond our control. We encourage you to understand what you may face during your travels and to be patient and understanding of these growing pains. The country simply cannot keep up with the demand and for that reason you will find development in every aspect. The airport in undergoing major construction to accommodate new carriers anxious to bring travelers from all parts of the globe. Expect crowds and some disorganization upon arrival. Restaurants do their best to keep up with demand and more are being added. Independent travelers are encouraged to make reservations well in advance. A shortage of trained tour guides may result in a somewhat less organized tour, not as prompt and precise as you are accustomed to on other Gate 1 tours. However, like all Icelanders we’ve encountered, they are extremely friendly, even if less understanding of the needs of tourists. Even public bathroom facilities are being stressed to capacity. All of these changes and improvements, in a country that has the highest cost of living in the world, take time and we ask for your kind understanding. It is our belief that the destination’s worth outweighs these inconveniences. |
| Eco & Sustainable Tourism |
| We support global efforts to create a more eco-friendly world, intolerant of any forms of cruelty, abuse and intentional environmental destruction. To that end we ask that our clients maintain a watchful eye as they travel, and report any abuses they may encounter. One of the many benefits of tourism is the shared cultural knowledge and ultimate elimination of negative behavior through education. We rely on your good feedback to enable this element of symbiosis. As you travel and learn about foreign cultures, we ask first and foremost that you practice tolerance and respect for local customs. |
| Gratuities |
| Tipping is always a matter of personal discretion. For your convenience, please use the summary below as a guideline for recommended gratuity amounts. Gratuities may be paid in local currency or US dollar equivalent where accepted. Please be aware that tipping is considered by many locals to be a part of their normal remuneration and some may approach you for additional "compensation." There is no need to be intimidated by the request, nor should you feel pressured to pay more than recommended. If you become uncomfortable by any behavior you encounter, please advise your tour manager or phone our local office. Numbers are provided in your documents for your convenience. |
| Suggested Tipping: Escorted Tours |
Tour Manager (Coordinator; may or may not act as a guide): US $10 per person per day Driver (Provides chauffeur services and limited assistance with luggage): US $5 per person per day, US $3 per half day Local Guide (Offers in-depth information at specific locations. There may be one or many guides along a tour program): US $5 per person per day of sightseeing, US $3 per half day Hotel porters and wait staff: Included |
| Iceland - Gratuities are not expected for services including hotels, restaurants and taxis. However, if you feel that a service deserves a gratuity, a modest tip will be appreciated. |
| About Your Sightseeing |
| To ensure a pleasant and fair experience for passengers on our escorted tours, there is a mandatory seat rotation policy on our motor coaches which will be organized by your Tour Manager. On river cruises, color-coded group splits may be used for shoreside included and Optional tours. Some buses are equipped with toilet facility, however they are strictly intended for emergency use only and often require the vehicle to stop for safety reasons before use. When travel dates coincide with religious holidays and national celebrations, some monuments and sites may be closed, sometimes without prior notice. On these occasions, escorted touring itineraries may be amended to reflect these closures. Occasionally, during holidays and certain periods, and/or due to other unforeseen circumstances including weather conditions, there may be last-minute changes, sometimes after arrival, which may affect the sequence of the tour and locations visited. National monuments and tourist sites regularly undergo renovations, which can obscure the monument's view. No tour will be canceled due to renovations, however Gate 1 will decide based on the conditions whether to amend an itinerary. To respect the privacy of all tour participants, your tour manager will not organize a group photo or collect passenger email addresses for a group list. |
| Iceland |
| For Winter programs in Iceland, emergency restrooms on the coaches are not available and bathroom facilities on the hunt for the Northern lights are limited. |
| 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 |
| Iceland - The Icelandic Krona is the currency of Iceland. |
| 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. |
| Iceland - Among the most popular items from Iceland are handwoven woolen goods, high quality wood carvings, eiderdown duvets and pillows, and fine jewelry. |
| Expenses |
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Iceland - Some find Iceland expensive when compared to the USA. Aside from food and textiles grown and produced locally, most items are necessarily imported and therefore expensive. When choosing dining spots, stick to those who offer locally produced fresh foods, like seafood, lamb, organically grown vegetables and dairy. |
| 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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| Local Emergency Phone Numbers |
Iceland
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| Languages |
| Iceland - Icelandic is the local language. English is widely spoken. |
| 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. |
| Iceland - The voltage used is 220 volts. |
| Code of Conduct |
| Iceland - Shaking hands is the standard greeting. Normal social courtesies should be observed. Smoking is prohibited in public buildings, buses, and other public transportation. |
| Meals & Dietary Requests |
| Included meals are based on the restaurant's buffet or set menu. Beverages are not included, unless specifically stated. Although special diets like Vegetarian and Vegan are relatively commonplace in the USA, much of the world's menu options are more provincial. Please do not expect to find the variety of food selection outside of the local norm. Every effort will be made to honor special dietary requests selected no later than 5 days prior to departure in the passenger details section of your reservation. In addition, we recommend that you make preferences known to your tour manager upon arrival, and at each hotel/restaurant. |
| Holidays |
| On public holidays, there may be reduced public transportation, as well as limited hours or closures of attractions, shops and restaurants. |
| Holidays - Iceland |
Holidays 2023 Jan 1: New Year's Day Apr 6: Maundy Thursday Apr 7: Good Friday Apr 9: Easter Apr 10: Easter Monday Apr 20: First Day of Summer May 1: Labour Day May 18: Ascension Day May 28: Whit Sunday May 29: Whit Monday Jun 17: Independence Day Aug 7: Commerce Day Dec 24: Christmas Eve Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: 2nd Day of Christmas Dec 31: New Year's Eve Holidays 2024 Jan 1: New Year's Day Mar 28: Maundy Thursday Mar 29: Good Friday Mar 31: Easter Apr 1: Easter Monday Apr 25: First Day of Summer May 1: Labour Day May 9: Ascension Day May 19: Whit Sunday May 20: Whit Monday Jun 17: Independence Day/Republic Day Aug 5: Commerce Day Dec 24: Christmas Eve Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: 2nd Day of Christmas Dec 31: New Year's Eve |
| Reykjavik Bus Stop System - In response to increased traffic in Reykjavik, the Reykjavik City Council implemented a new law limiting bus traffic in the central part of the city. For guests staying at hotels in the bus-free zone, pick up and drop off for transfers and tours are serviced from several official bus stops. Each hotel is assigned to a bus stop that is no more than a few minutes walk away. If your hotel is not listed on the following map, then it is serviced by direct hotel pick up and drop off. Printable map of central Reykjavik hotels and bus stops: https://www.gate1travel.com/hotel-stays/reykjavik-bus-stops. |
We enjoyed our trip! The hotels staff were amazing especially the female dinner waitstaff at the land hotel. She ensured all the food allergies were take care of, and knew what each person needed. Also, Bea at the land hotel was amazingly patient with my elderly mother who had multiple questions about the northern lights, if they were appearing that time, if what she photographed was correct, etc. She was so kind and helpful. Rj was great and the bus driver too. They made the journey enjoyable and informative. They were very flexible with the weather and ensured we could experience the most.
Julie O.
We have about 20 Gate1 trips under our belt and have loved every one. This trip to Iceland was just as wonderful and we did get to see the northern lights our last night in country. How great! I wanted to give a huge shout out for Sigga our guide. She is a gem and we couldn't have been happier with her. She loves her country and is a great ambassador of Iceland and Gate1. We'll be seeing you again!!!
Christopher L.
It was a fantastic trip and met our expectations. In particular, our tour guide Sigridour and the driver Mr. Thor provided great customer service and a fun experience to go hunting northern light on our last night Feb. 26. We saw aurora borealis with our own eyes. My wife and my son loved the experience. The Hotel Hella and Grimsborgir are excellent in term of food, customer service, and beautiful room. The trip covers all basic locations that one wants to see Iceland. In summary, you got yourself one fantastic tour guide who is fun and firm to guide us. For example, during the drive, she was talking in her mike and people talking at the time. She firmly said "you may not want to hear, but other people wants to hear". I like that. After that, people keeps quiet when she talks about Iceland. And we saw aurora borealis even though it was not guaranteed.
George N.
Our trip was great...over too quickly, but great! Our guide, Oli, never missed a beat when our hotel accommodations in Reykjavik were compromised due to local strikes. I don't think we missed anything in the original itinerary, and he even added in an impromptu stop at the harbor for a humpback whale sighting he had gotten wind of. He could have "stuck to the script" and never mentioned it, but that little extra stop was so enjoyable! You can tell he loves showing off his country, which made us enjoy our trip all the more. This was our fourth Gate 1 trip, and there will absolutely be more in our future!
Carolyn S.
I am searching for the correct words to impart our happiness and satisfaction with our tour of Iceland. Sigridur our guide and Daniel our driver were beyond compare. Our expectations were exceeded by both of them at every turn. Exceeded only by the breathtaking beauty of Iceland in the winter. The Landhotel was pure magic for the Northern Lights. The hotel and staff were excellent in every aspect. I could go on and on but...you get the idea.
Karen A.
We recently went on the 11 day kaleidoscope tour of Iceland. To say the trip was awesome is an understatement. Iceland has amazing vistas, mountains, waterfalls, thermal pools, glaciers, black sand beaches and lava fields as far as the eyes can see. There was lots of opportunity to hike and breathe in the clean clear air. Our guide Hannah was very knowledgeable and friendly and shared a lot of information about the culture and lives of the Icelandic people. We definitely can recommend this trip and we hope to return in the future.
Anne E.
May I start off by saying how wonderful my trip to Iceland was? My son, my sister and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I feel that we really got to see as much of Iceland as was possible in the time allotted. The south shore countryside and Reykjavik were filled with awesome welcoming people. Our tour guide Hlif and bus driver Gummi were very informative, pleasant, and helpful. That made the trip that much more enjoyable They are a definite asset to Gate 1 Travel, and deserve a raise or bonus! The hotel accommodations/selections were excellent. The food was delicious and plentiful. The sights were beyond compare. I am grateful to Gate 1 Travel for providing us with a delightful and fun-filled getaway. I am telling everyone to use your company, and also plan to book another trip for Spring 2023.
Mary D.
I can sum up our trip with a short- outstanding across the board!!!!! But before I go much further than that I must rave on a bit about our tour guide Ms. Sigridur . You absolutely must clone her for other trips. First and foremost she was a sheer delight to work and travel with. As a 26 year military veteran I appreciate good leadership. She was an outstanding leader! Guiding with a gentle but clearly in charge persona. I know she worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make sure everything on our excursion went flawlessly. There were weather related changes etc. but each of these were handled so professionally that they were seamless and easy for the group. Her decisions on the fly to change places, and times at places, were absolutely spot on and just made the whole experience that much better. She read the group's wants and needs perfectly. The information she provided about the places we were visiting; the cultural, historical, economic, scientific, geologic, etc. uniqueness of Iceland was not only fascinating but delivered in just the right amounts and just the right times. It's clear she really enjoys her job from the happiness, humor, and caring with which she does it. She made each of us feel special and confident we were being well cared for. If it were possible she would be our pick for all of our trips! Thor, our bus driver was also outstanding. The consummate professional in every way and equally warm, friendly, and joyful. A pleasure to travel with as well. We were very satisfied and happy with all of the accommodations and equally with all the activities and sights we visited. The included meals were great and the venues chosen for independent dining were also very good and very efficient with large groups. This trip delivered 100% of what we expected and hoped for and exceeded our expectations. Not sure I would change anything about it. Since we were beaming when we got back all of our friends have asked for details. Naturally we have been recommending Gate-1 as we regale them about our experience and share amazing pictures.
Ian G.
It was wonderful. Einar was a wonderful, knowledgeable tour guide. Our group of 36 were friendly, always on time and fun to be with. The weather was better than expected, warm sunny days.
Ellen L.
Our trip was awesome; we were very well taken care of by ground staff in Iceland. The guide and driver were very helpful and professional One of the best trips for me.
Narinder S.
We loved it. Our guide was excellent and the area was so beautiful!! Would love to go to Iceland again. All our stops were chosen wisely; top notch.
Cherl H.
9 day Iceland trip was Wonderful. It helped that the weather was Great (June29-July7 '22). Harpa our guide was Great. She represented Iceland beautifullly. Her knowledge was wonderful, her personality great, her motto: 3 things: Be Safe, Be Kind, Be Happy was embraced by all. We saw so much in Iceland, it is impossible to pick a favorite day. The Blue Lagoon, the city tour, the icebergs, the waterfalls, the geysers..absolutely a beautiful trip. The hotels were good. We were blown away at how wonderful the food was especially the 2 dinners at Hotel Klaustur and the one dinner at Hotel Hagar. Such creative (and fresh) food. The tomato greenhouse restaurant was another wonderful meal. Our driver, Daniel was Great also, always friendly and kept us safe! The pace was great. The only slightly down side is of course you always wish you had a little more time at some of the places to take in all the beauty. So absolutely WONDERFUL trip to Iceland with Gate1!!
Lori M.
My first trip with Gate-1. Awesome. Excellent value. A treat having 16people in our group. Loved Iceland. Tour guide, motor coach & driver are exceptional. I will go again and use Gate-1 for more vacation, explorations & learning adventures.
Christina G.
The trip exceeded any expectations I had. Iceland is indeed a remarkable country in many ways. The geography is spectacular and unique but moreover the stark simplicity and wholesome way of life that is palpable. This trip will stand out as one of the most memorable experiences. Our guide, Hanna was kind, knowledgeable and efficient and in my opinion was the best guide with whom I have ever traveled. Gate 1 is fortunate to have a person of her caliber as a representative of the company.
Colette M.
We had such a great trip to Iceland (6 days). I realize my responses on the survey were all 'Excellent', and that is because everything was Excellent! Our guide, RJ, was great and so informative. I have nothing negative to say about the trip at all!Food was incredible, locations were beautiful! We have recommended the trip and company to others. Thank you so much for providing such an incredible experience!!!!
Donna S.
Trip was fantastic beyond my expectations! Many many thanks to our tour guide Oli, and our bus driver Gumi. Oli was so full of enthusiasm for every bit of Icelandic culture, history, geography, and geology that there was never a boring segment of his narration. He was also patient and positive in dealing with all of us very diverse travelers and went out of his way to make us all welcome and comfortable. Gumi was the most skilled driver I have ever encountered! He maneuvered us around impossibly tight turns and narrow roads with never a worry. He and Oli had such a good relationship they were able to take us easily to the most interesting places, even though they were not easy to get to. And he had connections that allowed my husband to get back his forgotten insulin from the previous hotel the very next day. We are so grateful to him and to Oli for making this a truly unforgettable trip!!!
Mary G.
Just wanted to leave additional feedback on the exceptional quality of this Iceland adventure. The hotel qualities were very good in both locations and the Fosshotel is amazing. We were beyond lucky to have the superlative Sigridur - she made the whole trip a fantastic experience. All the hotel staff in both locations were also noteworthy. Fabulous trip!
Karen B.
Can't say enough good things about our tour guide, Ingibjorg on our recent trip to Iceland - March 28-April 2. She went above and beyond to make our trip a wonderful experience. This was our 9th Gate 1 trip and we are always so happy with our guides. Also, kudos to our bus driver, Gummi. He did a great job. We loved this trip.
Suzanne F.
I wanted to reach out and say how happy and impressed I was with my trip. This was my first Gate 1 trip and won't be my last. I had a bad experience with another operator on a large group tour and was hesitant to do another but Gate 1 showed me when done right, it is quite enjoyable. The guides, drivers, bus were all great (I knew the sites would be but worried about the specifics). Besides being so knowledgeable and helpful Hlif and Harpa were great with information. We always knew how long the next bus trip would be and when the next bathroom/food break was. These little things make a big difference! And the "surprise" extras - like the ice cream break at the creamery and water bottle every day. Thank you for an excellent experience!
Stephanie D.
Iceland was our 1st ever group tour and EVERYTHING about it was just fantastic! We cannot stop talking about it. Looking forward to Germany in the fall and we thank you for making the trip an amazing vacation and lifetime memory.
Roberta M.
Hoskuldur or Hersey as we fondly call him is quite professional. He is very knowledgeable. He even explained some history of Iceland which is quite informative. He is warm and compassionate. His performance is IMPECCABLE. Gate 1 needs more Tour Manager like Hersey. PROFESSIONAL, COMPASSIONATE, PERSONABLE. EXCELLENT communication skills. He performed beyond his responsibilities, he ensured we did not encounter any problem with COVID testing and obtaining results promptly. Daniel our driver is quite professional. He navigates our tours smoothly. He exhibits IMPECCABLE skills as a driver. He is very good in maintaining cleanliness of our tour bus constantly sanitizing the bannister, handrails and seats.
Ofelia B.
It was a beautiful and interesting trip indeed! Our tour guide Dagny was a fantastic guide full of knowledge and talent with the Northern Lights photography. Our driver Thor was an excellent driver, enabling us to relax while on the road. The history, museums and places we saw really made the trip informative.
Helene H. Philadelphia, PA
Our five-day Iceland adventure was spectacular! We cannot say enough great things about Gate 1 Travel, beginning with our initial booking back in August 2019, through every aspect of leading up to and our actual trip. Iceland Air flights from JFK-Iceland-JFK were on-time and comfortable. The Cabin Hotel was clean, modern and the Front Desk Staff were first-class and provided outstanding, professional customer service. The included European Breakfast was plentiful and tasty. The airport/hotel transfer to/from the Hotel was easy, comfortable and seamless. The trip to the Blue Lagoon was fabulous! Gate 1 provided a private taxi for us from the hotel to the Lagoon, and the bus ride back was on-time and safe. The weather was wintry and did not permit the Northern Lights' Bus Trip to operate; however, we visited the Northern Lights' Museum. They provided a spectacular video of the Lights from all over Iceland, and we took pictures. All of our Facebook followers are SO impressed and in awe. Although we experienced winter in Iceland, we walked many miles throughout the Old Town, enjoying many of the local restaurants, bars and the nice Icelanders. In addition, we visited The Perlan Museum, the Maritime Museum and the FlyOver Iceland Museum. Each provided an interesting and educational experience! Thank you SO much for your assistance. We will travel with Gate 1 again.
Rebecca & Alan B. New Concord, KY
Our trip was fantastic! Everything went smoothly. Our guide Oli was knowledgeable, experienced and accommodating. Iceland is a breathtaking place! The hotels were clean and comfortable. The welcoming & farewell meals were delicious! Everyone in our group got along well. This is definitely one of my favorite trips!
Jennifer W. Pacifica, CA
We had an amazing trip! The airline was great and the hotel was wonderful! The staff were terrific and the bus stop was close. Breakfast was good too. The tour guide for our Northern Lights Tour was especially awesome! He really loved what he was doing and told funny stories and gave us lots of information about the lights: what caused them, why they were different colors, how they got their name, etc. Thank you again! We will definitely use Gate 1 for any future travel abroad!
Sandra K. New Milford, CT
It was an amazing trip. The Icelanders have done a great job in preserving the natural beauty of its country. The major sites were accessible with trails and viewing decks… enjoyed the boat ride, came face to face with large icebergs, the waterfalls, geysers, hot springs, glaciers, Blue Lagoon bath... were all great! Our accommodations were all good specially Icelandic Hotel Notura with a free shuttle throughout the day to go downtown. That came in very handy since we did pre-accommodations. I can not ask for a better tour manager, Ingga, she was pleasant and knowledgeable. She was entertaining and had a good sense of humor. I really enjoyed it... I may go back!
Rosario V. Dublin, OH
Amazing! Oli is the best guide ever!! Friendly, helpful and very knowledgeable. Made our trip even more amazing.
William M. Chester, VA
My trip to Iceland was awesome. We learned so much history and geology. Iceland is beautiful with its waterfalls, hot springs, geyers, horses and black beaches. The Blue Lagoon was a favorite. Our guide was helpful and informative ... And we did see the Northern Lights which was a thrill. The guide made every possible arrangement for us to see the lights. All is good.
Maureen S. Mount Laurel, NJ