9 Day Affordable Amsterdam, Bruges, Paris & London
From
$2049
Land Only
$2799*
Air & Land
Featured Hotels
(Hotels may vary based on departure day of the week)
| Monday Departure | ||
|---|---|---|
| WestCord Fashion Hotel | Amsterdam | |
| NH Brugge | Bruges | |
| Mercure Paris Centre Tour Eiffel | Paris | |
| Millennium Gloucester | London | |
| Friday Departure | ||
|---|---|---|
| WestCord Fashion Hotel | Amsterdam | |
| NH Brugge | Bruges | |
| Mercure Paris Centre Tour Eiffel | Paris | |
| Millennium Gloucester | London | |
Click a Date to Book Online
Click a Date to Book Online
Book By Jun 6, 2024 & Save!
| 2024 Dates & Prices Single Supplement: $700 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Book By Jun 06 |
Book After Jun 06 |
Book By Jun 06 |
Book After Jun 06 |
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| $2599 | $2999 | $3459* | $3859* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $2399 | $2799 | $3319* | $3719* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $2399 | $2799 | $3179* | $3579* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $2399 | $2799 | $3149* | $3549* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $2399 | $2799 | $3149* | $3549* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $2399 | $2799 | $3429* | $3829* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $2199 | $2599 | $2949* | $3349* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 2025 Dates & Prices Single Supplement: $700 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Hotel | Dates | Embark | Tour Starts | Ship | Land Only | Air & Land | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Book By Jun 06 |
Book After Jun 06 |
Book By Jun 06 |
Book After Jun 06 |
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| $2099 | $2499 | $2939* | $3339* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $2049 | $2449 | $2799* | $3199* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $2099 | $2499 | $2849* | $3249* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $2099 | $2499 | $2849* | $3249* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $2099 | $2499 | $2849* | $3249* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $2199 | $2599 | $3039* | $3439* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $2099 | $2499 | $2939* | $3339* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $2199 | $2599 | $3039* | $3439* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $2299 | $2699 | $3139* | $3539* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Not Included:
Optional tours and gratuities.
Additional Information:
Land only price does not include arrival/departure transfers.
London Gatwick Airport transfers available at an additional cost.
Accommodation Details:
Triple rooms at the Mercure Paris Centre Tour Eiffel and Mercure Paris Montmartre Sacre Coeur will be accommodated in a single room & twin room.
Passengers traveling abroad require a passport valid for six months beyond their travel dates. All travelers are responsible to check if a visa is required for all countries on their itinerary. For visa information, check our Visas page.
Is This Trip Right for You?
Escorted Package Includes
- Flights New York-Amsterdam, London-New York
Other departure cities available. Click on date of departure for selection and prices - Airline taxes & fuel surcharges
- 7 nights accommodations
- 2 nights Amsterdam
- 1 night Bruges
- 2 nights Paris
- 2 nights London
- Hotel taxes, fees & service charges
- Hotel porterage
- All transfers included only with airfare purchase on package arrival & departure dates†♦
- Eurostar high-speed train Paris-London
- 10 meals: 7 breakfasts, 3 dinners with wine
- Sightseeing per itinerary in modern air-conditioned motor coach
- Services of English-speaking tour manager throughout
- Services of local guides in Paris and London
- Entrance fees per itinerary
- Comfortable wireless earphones for enhanced touring
Special Features
- Board a glass-top boat and cruise on Amsterdam’s winding canals
- Visit Volendam, a quaint fishing village on the old Zuiderzee
- See the Grand Place in Brussels, one of the most famous squares in Europe
- Walk the picturesque cobbled lanes of Bruges' medieval district
- Drive along Champs Elysees and see the iconic Eiffel Tower in Paris
- Travel to London by train via the world-famous "Chunnel"
- A panoramic city tour introduces you to the highlights of London
†Transfers are available for purchase for land only or on alternative flight dates
♦ London Gatwick Airport transfers available at an additional cost
Is This Trip Right for You?
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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.
This first class hotel is located in London's upscale South Kensington neighborhood, near top museums and attractions.
Hotel Details- Tours purchased while travelling may cost an extra 10% or more
- Tours often sell out. Avoid disappointment
- Save your cash. Credit card processing may not be possible locally
- Travel insurance only covers services purchased prior to departure
- Book Online or call to book these tours up to 1 week before your departure
- The day the optionals operate varies by the day of the week
Experience one of Europe's most historic cities on a guided walk through Amsterdam. With your local guide, walk through the neighborhood where Rembrandt van Rijn lived and worked. See the "Zuiderkerk" Church, where his children were baptized and buried and walk by his former home, now a museum dedicated to Rembrandt's many paintings. Continue along the brick streets windy canals where stately canal-homes tell us of the rich and colorful past of Amsterdam's "golden century". Then enjoy a dinner of local specialties in a traditional and cozy Dutch restaurant, with drinks included. Please expect one hour of active walking.
Approximate tour duration is 4 hours.
| Day #3 | 01 Jan 2024 - 24 Dec 2024 | $100.00 |
| 26 Dec 2024 - 31 Dec 2025 | $100.00 |
Discover the "City Of Light" with the Illumination tour and dinner in a typical French Bistro. Enjoy the traditional atmosphere while being served delicious specialties and wine in a Parisian restaurant. Then see the striking floodlit monuments as we drive the Champs Elysees and along the River Seine, viewing Concorde Square, Opera House, and of course the Eiffel Tower.
*Please note that in the Summer part of the tour may be operated in the daylight and due to local regulations, monument illumination will end at 10 pm.
Approximate tour duration is 4 hours.
| Day #5 | 01 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2026 | $90.00 |
Relive the glorious period of Louis XIV, XV and XVI as you pace one of the largest and most influential formal gardens in the world. Today's tour takes you to Versailles Palace to witness the grandeur of French classical architecture. Visit the Palace and extravagant State Apartments, including a guided visit to the Reception Halls, the Royal Bedroom, and the Hall of Mirrors. You will also have time to walk the palace grounds and formal gardens, designed by Andre le Notre, at your leisure. Enjoy VIP access and skip the lines on this unforgettable tour.
Approximate tour duration is 4.5 hours.
Advance purchase is highly recommended for this tour. Tickets sell out and may not be available for purchase locally.
| Day #6 | 04 Nov 2023 - 24 Dec 2024 | $105.00 |
| 26 Dec 2024 - 31 Mar 2025 | $105.00 |
Today the focus is on two of the most impressive monuments within London's original "Square Mile". Take a guided visit of St. Paul's Cathedral, where Charles married Diana in 1981. Also, view the exterior architecture of Sir Christopher Wren's Dome, a masterpiece and landmark of London's skyline. Continue to the Tower of London, a former fortress and Royal Palace that has witnessed 1000 years of history most notoriously as a prison. Now the Crown Jewels are kept here and you will have a viewing of these, as well as seeing the iconic Tower Bridge.
Approximate tour duration is 4.5 hours.
| Day #8 | 02 Jan 2024 - 24 Dec 2024 | $95.00 |
| 26 Dec 2024 - 31 Dec 2026 | $95.00 |
Experience one of Europe's most historic cities on a guided walk through Amsterdam. With your local guide, walk through the neighborhood where Rembrandt van Rijn lived and worked. See the "Zuiderkerk" Church, where his children were baptized and buried and walk by his former home, now a museum dedicated to Rembrandt's many paintings. Continue along the brick streets windy canals where stately canal-homes tell us of the rich and colorful past of Amsterdam's "golden century". Then enjoy a dinner of local specialties in a traditional and cozy Dutch restaurant, with drinks included. Please expect one hour of active walking.
Approximate tour duration is 4 hours.
| Day #3 | 01 Jan 2024 - 24 Dec 2024 | $100.00 |
| 26 Dec 2024 - 31 Dec 2025 | $100.00 |
Discover the "City Of Light" with the Illumination tour and dinner in a typical French Bistro. Enjoy the traditional atmosphere while being served delicious specialties and wine in a Parisian restaurant. Then see the striking floodlit monuments as we drive the Champs Elysees and along the River Seine, viewing Concorde Square, Opera House, and of course the Eiffel Tower.
*Please note that in the Summer part of the tour may be operated in the daylight and due to local regulations, monument illumination will end at 10 pm.
Approximate tour duration is 4 hours.
| Day #5 | 01 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2026 | $90.00 |
Relive the glorious period of Louis XIV, XV and XVI as you pace one of the largest and most influential formal gardens in the world. Today's tour takes you to Versailles Palace to witness the grandeur of French classical architecture. Visit the Palace and extravagant State Apartments, including a guided visit to the Reception Halls, the Royal Bedroom, and the Hall of Mirrors. You will also have time to walk the palace grounds and formal gardens, designed by Andre le Notre, at your leisure. Enjoy VIP access and skip the lines on this unforgettable tour.
Approximate tour duration is 4.5 hours.
Advance purchase is highly recommended for this tour. Tickets sell out and may not be available for purchase locally.
| Day #6 | 04 Nov 2023 - 24 Dec 2024 | $105.00 |
| 26 Dec 2024 - 31 Mar 2025 | $105.00 |
Today the focus is on two of the most impressive monuments within London's original "Square Mile". Take a guided visit of St. Paul's Cathedral, where Charles married Diana in 1981. Also, view the exterior architecture of Sir Christopher Wren's Dome, a masterpiece and landmark of London's skyline. Continue to the Tower of London, a former fortress and Royal Palace that has witnessed 1000 years of history most notoriously as a prison. Now the Crown Jewels are kept here and you will have a viewing of these, as well as seeing the iconic Tower Bridge.
Approximate tour duration is 4.5 hours.
| Day #8 | 02 Jan 2024 - 24 Dec 2024 | $95.00 |
| 26 Dec 2024 - 31 Dec 2026 | $95.00 |
| Know Before You Go | |
| Although most of the planning and preparation is taken care of for you, there are still a few things you should know and some details you should take care of to ensure your comfort, safety and peace of mind. Please review the following information before your departure to ensure that any surprises along the way will only be pleasant ones. |
| Getting Ready to Go |
| Passports and Visas |
| It is each traveler's responsibility to have a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the dates of travel and a visa if required. Please check the information at www.gate1travel.com/visas.aspx for the specific country/region you are visiting for more details. IMPORTANT: Passengers who are not U.S. citizens must check with the respective consulate or a visa agency to determine what personal identification is required. Passengers who enter, leave and then re-enter the same country on their itinerary should check if they require a double-entry visa. Passport applications are available at most U.S. Post Offices, as well as at regional Passport Agencies. Passengers requiring visas, whether obtained in advance or locally upon arrival, should ensure that their passport has blank pages.
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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/reservations 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 |
| Belgium - Belgium's climate is very moderate, and does not reach extremes in any season. However, rain is frequent. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer, an all-weather jacket, and an umbrella. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops). Belgium Average Temperatures: https://www.gate1travel.com/weather/europe/default.aspx#belgium-weather |
| Holland - Holland's climate is moderate year round. However, rain is frequent. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer, an all-weather jacket, and an umbrella. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops). Holland Average Temperatures: https://www.gate1travel.com/weather/europe/default.aspx#belgium-weather |
| Britain - Spring and Fall: 40°F-60°F; Summer: 50°F-70°F; Winter: 35°F-45°F. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer, an all-weather jacket, and an umbrella. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops). United Kingdom Average Temperatures: https://www.gate1travel.com/weather/europe/default.aspx#britain-weather |
| France - Spring and Fall: 45-60°F; Summer: 60-80°F; Winter: 30-45°F. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather coat. France Average Temperatures: https://www.gate1travel.com/weather/europe/default.aspx#france-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. |
| Book & Film Recommendations |
| Many of our guests enjoy reading about their destination - either in advance of their trip or while traveling - as a way of adding context to their visit. Whether reading a traditional guide book, learning about the history and culture, or simply enjoying a fictional novel set in the destination, a good book can add greatly to your experience. Similarly, a good movie set in your destination helps set the mood before you travel. We asked our Tour Managers and staff to recommend books and films which past guests may have enjoyed. The following does not constitute an endorsement of any authors, books or films listed, it is merely a collection of guests' recommendations. |
| Preparing for Your Trip |
| Seat Assignments |
| As a courtesy service, complimentary airline seat assignments are requested on your behalf and, when available, are displayed in order of Passenger #1, #2 and so on. Assignments reflect the best available seats at the time of booking. Some airlines and/or fare types do not allow for pre-seating and require this be done at airport check-in only; in which case the display shows “N/A”. Seats are subject to change by your airline(s) including, for example, when there is a schedule change or equipment change after your initial booking; this may cause seat assignments to be changed or even cancelled. Some airlines offer preferred seating for an additional fee; these seats may only be purchased directly from the airline. You will need your family name and the 6-digit airline “Record Locator” which is displayed with the flight details on your reservation. In the event that you change seat assignments directly with your airline, changes will not be reflected on your invoice or documents. At the time that Gate 1 travel documents are issued, the currently assigned seats will be listed based on the assignments stored in your airline reservation at that time. Should you have questions regarding your assignments, please write to us at www.gate1travel.com/contactus. |
| Luggage & Packing |
| Checked bags are typically limited to a total dimension of 62 inches by adding length + width + height (example: 26"+26"+10" = 62”), and a maximum weight of 50 lbs (23kg). Smart Bags with a USB charging port, GPS tracking device and other high-tech features are prohibited as checked or carry-on baggage unless the bag is made with removable batteries and the batteries are removed and stored separately. Many airlines charge for checked bags including flights which begin and end within the USA. The most inexpensive airfare options commonly known as Basic Economy airfares do not include any checked bags nor seat assignments before the day of departure. However, for some airlines, other airfare categories also do not include checked baggage. This will be clearly displayed in our airfare selection and on your invoice. Where available, we highly recommend selecting airfares which include at least 1 piece of checked baggage. Gate 1 Travel is not responsible for checked bag fees, excess luggage or weight charges levied by an airline. Checked baggage allowances displayed on reservation details and invoices reflect the applicable allowance at the time of booking but are subject to change by your airline(s). For your airline’s requirements and fees, visit www.gate1travel.com/baggagefees.aspx. For important baggage information, visit www.gate1travel.com/luggage.aspx. Avoid placing valuables in your checked luggage. Federal law forbids the carriage of hazardous materials aboard the aircraft in your luggage, your carry-on or on your person. A violation can result in five years’ imprisonment and penalties of $250,000 or more (49 U.S.C. 5124). Hazardous materials include explosives, compressed gases, flammable liquids and solids, oxidizers, poisons, corrosives and radioactive materials. Examples: Paints, lighter fluid, fireworks, tear gases, oxygen bottles, and radio-pharmaceuticals. There are special exceptions for small quantities (up to 70 ounces total) of medicinal and toilet articles carried in your luggage and certain smoking materials carried on your person. Check the Transportation and Safety Administration (TSA) website www.tsa.gov to find out the current list of acceptable items you may bring on a plane before packing. We recommend that you use brightly colored luggage tags, straps or other identifiers to help you locate you luggage upon arrival or to describe it in the event that it is lost. |
| Day of Departure |
| Flight Services |
| What to do if You Need Assistance |
Whether you purchased your airfare from Gate 1 Travel or from the airline directly, please bear in mind that Gate 1 Travel does not own nor operate the airline(s), nor the airport facilities where they operate. At times, flying can be a frustrating experience, especially when things do not go exactly as planned, and airline explanations can be confusing or even misleading. Should you face a problem, remain calm and seek assistance either from the airline directly or from Gate 1. Please be aware that in most cases, on the day of your flight(s), airlines pass responsibility for your reservation to their staff at the airport and it is not always possible for Gate 1 Travel to intervene on your behalf, either through our reservations system or directly with your airline. |
| Arrival & Departure |
| Arrival Procedures |
| Upon arrival, please complete immigration formalities if necessary and claim your luggage. If your program includes airport arrival transfers, check your voucher for specific instructions, as they vary with every destination. In most cases, you will be met after collecting your luggage or passing through Customs by the local representative who will be holding a Gate 1 Travel sign and/or a sign with your name on it. In some instances you will be instructed to walk a short distance to a transportation counter. The company's name and location will be printed on your voucher. If for any reason you do not connect with the Gate 1 transfer personnel, go to the Tourist Information Desk and ask them to page the Gate 1 Travel representative or phone the number on your voucher. If you are delayed due to lost luggage, phone the number on the voucher or have a companion exit the Customs Area to advise the transfer representative. Be wary of airport scammers who offer unwanted assistance. If you are arriving without a pre-arranged transfer, we strongly recommend going to the Tourist Information Desk to ask for a licensed taxi or transfer service. You may be asked to pay for the transfer at the desk prior to the trip, this will ensure you are not charged extra during the trip. |
| What To Do When Your Flight Is Delayed |
| Airlines do not share flight manifest information. Therefore, the only way we may learn of a delay or schedule change while you are traveling is from you, the traveler. The sooner you are able to contact one of our offices, the better we can respond. Please refer to the Emergency Assistance instructions on this same document. Gate 1 Travel is only able to guarantee pre-reserved arrival transfers for up to one hour from the scheduled time, no matter the cause. In case you are delayed for any reason, and are unable to follow the instructions on your voucher, please make independent transfer arrangements and retain your receipts. Unused tour services, including transfers and hotel nights are not refundable. Upon you return home you will need to contact your airline and/or insurance carrier to investigate the possibility of reimbursement for any unused tour services. |
| Departure Procedures |
| If your program includes departure transfers, instructions will be stated on your voucher or provided locally. |
| Transfers |
| Due to local traffic and other extenuating circumstances, we ask that you allow 30 minutes from your scheduled transfer time for our representative to arrive. This includes hotel, airport and cruise transfers. Such possible delays are taken into consideration in scheduling transfers and you should therefore have no concerns about arriving late for your tour, flight or cruise. For transfers from a hotel, let the hotel reception desk or concierge know that you are waiting for a transfer. In the case of a missed transfer, reimbursement for your out-of-pocket expenses will be considered provided you obtain a written statement from the hotel's front desk verifying the length of time you waited, and the time you left the hotel, and a receipt for your transportation with time and date. The cost of a transfer is more expensive than hiring a taxi, as a Gate 1 transfer necessarily includes round trip service, or 'dead-leg'. Often the places of call (airports, seaports, hotels) demand entrance and parking fees, where drivers may have to wait for up to an hour. Passengers comfortable hiring a taxi on their own and do not require assistance will save money. |
| About Your Accommodations |
| Hotels |
| Gate 1 Travel has carefully selected each hotel based on overall quality, location, price, service, and cleanliness. All rooms are standard twin-bedded (two single beds) rooms with private facilities. Special requests such as bed types, smoking preference and connecting rooms are subject to availability. Room selection in all cases, unless otherwise reserved, is strictly at the discretion of the hotel's management on a run-of-house basis. Triple rooms consist of standard twin beds or one double bed plus a sofa/folding bed or cot for third person except in the U.S. and Canada, where triple rooms often consist of two double/queen beds for three persons; where available, a fee may be charged by the hotel for the addition of a cot/rollaway. The number of persons accommodated does not dictate the room size. Although available at most 4 and 5 star hotels, the use of air-conditioning abroad differs greatly from the United States, and is often shut down at night and from the end until the start of the summer months. Some lodges and accommodations in remote regions may not have all of the amenities, such as hairdryer, alarm clock and room service, that you might find in a larger hotel located in a city center. |
| Hotel Check-in/ Check-out |
| Hotel check-in time is generally not before 4:00 p.m. and check-out time is prior to noon. If you will be arriving early in the day or departing in the evening, hotels will usually allow you to store your luggage in their luggage room. Ask at the front desk if the hotel can check you in earlier, or let you stay later. |
| At Your Destination |
| Eco & Sustainable Tourism |
| We support global efforts to create a more eco-friendly world, intolerant of any forms of cruelty, abuse and intentional environmental destruction. To that end we ask that our clients maintain a watchful eye as they travel, and report any abuses they may encounter. One of the many benefits of tourism is the shared cultural knowledge and ultimate elimination of negative behavior through education. We rely on your good feedback to enable this element of symbiosis. As you travel and learn about foreign cultures, we ask first and foremost that you practice tolerance and respect for local customs. |
| Gratuities |
| Tipping is always a matter of personal discretion. For your convenience, please use the summary below as a guideline for recommended gratuity amounts. Gratuities may be paid in local currency or US dollar equivalent where accepted. Please be aware that tipping is considered by many locals to be a part of their normal remuneration and some may approach you for additional "compensation." There is no need to be intimidated by the request, nor should you feel pressured to pay more than recommended. If you become uncomfortable by any behavior you encounter, please advise your tour manager or phone our local office. Numbers are provided in your documents for your convenience. |
| Suggested Tipping: Escorted Tours |
Tour Manager (Coordinator; may or may not act as a guide): US $10 per person per day Driver (Provides chauffeur services and limited assistance with luggage): US $5 per person per day, US $3 per half day Local Guide (Offers in-depth information at specific locations. There may be one or many guides along a tour program): US $5 per person per day of sightseeing, US $3 per half day Hotel porters and wait staff: Included |
| Belgium - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. Restaurant bills often include a service charge. |
| Holland - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. Restaurant bills often include a service charge. |
| United Kingdom - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. |
| France - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. |
| About Your Sightseeing |
| To ensure a pleasant and fair experience for passengers on our escorted tours, there is a mandatory seat rotation policy on our motor coaches which will be organized by your Tour Manager. On river cruises, color-coded group splits may be used for shoreside included and Optional tours. Some buses are equipped with toilet facility, however they are strictly intended for emergency use only and often require the vehicle to stop for safety reasons before use. When travel dates coincide with religious holidays and national celebrations, some monuments and sites may be closed, sometimes without prior notice. On these occasions, escorted touring itineraries may be amended to reflect these closures. Occasionally, during holidays and certain periods, and/or due to other unforeseen circumstances including weather conditions, there may be last-minute changes, sometimes after arrival, which may affect the sequence of the tour and locations visited. National monuments and tourist sites regularly undergo renovations, which can obscure the monument's view. No tour will be canceled due to renovations, however Gate 1 will decide based on the conditions whether to amend an itinerary. To respect the privacy of all tour participants, your tour manager will not organize a group photo or collect passenger email addresses for a group list. |
| Land Only Passengers (Escorted Tours) |
| Your tour manager will contact you after your arrival at your hotel. Passengers who have not purchased arrival transfers from Gate 1 Travel should proceed directly to the hotel for check-in. The details of the hotel can be found in your documents. |
| Purchasing Tours Locally |
| On escorted tours, the guides will generally sell optional tours to passengers who have not pre-purchased them. Payment can be made by cash or credit card, unless otherwise noted below. This does not apply to Independent packages. Please see Gate 1 Terms & Conditions for more information. https://www.gate1travel.com/terms.aspx#optional |
| Independent Activities - Gate 1 itineraries may contain suggestions for activities for your leisure time; these suggestions do not constitute a recommendation nor an endorsement of any specific service provider and the decision to participate in any such activities should be made independently and with due consideration. Gate 1 is not responsible for any activities not expressly included in its programs. Caution should be exercised when selecting certain activities that may require physical strength, coordination or exertion. Particular care should be taken when considering animal rides, such as on camels, mules or horses |
| Belgium - The Euro is the currency of Belgium. |
| Holland - The Euro is the currency of Holland. |
| Britain - The Pound sterling is the currency of the United Kingdom, including England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. |
| France - The Euro is the currency of France. |
| 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. |
| Belgium - Special purchases include ceramics and hand-beaten copperware from Dinant, gourmet chocolates, crystal , diamonds, jewelry, lace and woodcarvings. |
| Holland - Special purchases include beautiful Delft blue pottery and pottery from Makkum and Workum, costume dolls, silverware from Schoonhoven, glass and crystal from Leerdam and diamonds from Amsterdam. |
| Britain - Stores are open from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Many larger stores are open Sunday from noon until 6 p.m. London offers wonderful department stores and designer boutiques. The shops of Regent Street and Covent Garden are especially worth visiting. The British countryside is known for its quaint shops, handmade glassware, crafts and antiques. |
| France - In Paris, stores are open from 10 am to 7 pm, Monday through Saturday. Larger stores are open Sunday from noon until 6 pm Many large department stores and designer boutiques are located in Paris. The French countryside is known for its quaint shops, farm markets and vineyards. Good buys include lace, crystal, glass, and fine wines and liqueurs. |
| 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 |
Belgium
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Holland
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Britain
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France
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| Languages |
| Belgium - Dutch, French and German are the official languages. English is generally spoken in tourist areas. |
| Holland - Dutch is the local language. English is generally spoken in tourist areas. |
| Britain - English is the local language. In Wales, Welsh is also spoken. |
| France - French is the local language. English is generally spoken in tourist areas. |
| Electricity |
| Please note: The U.S. uses 120 volts and you can purchase a converter and transformer at most hardware stores for your 120V appliances. |
| Belgium - The voltage used is 230 volts. |
| Holland - The voltage used is 230 volts. |
| Britain - The voltage used is 240 volts. |
| France - The voltage used is 220 volts. |
| Code of Conduct |
| Belgium - Shaking hands is the standard greeting. Common courtesies should be observed, and conservative casual dress is appropriate. |
| Holland - Shaking hands is the standard greeting. Common courtesies should be observed, and conservative casual dress is appropriate. |
| Britain - The monarchy, though now only symbolic, is a powerful unifying force. Shaking hands is the standard greeting. Normal social courtesies should be observed. Smoking is prohibited in some public buildings, buses, and the London Underground. |
| France - Shaking hands is the standard greeting. Closer acquaintances and friends may kiss both cheeks. The form of personal address is simply Monsieur or Madame without a surname and people may not immediately offer to be familiar on a first name basis. Casual wear is appropriate, but more stylish dress would not be out of place. Smoking is prohibited on public transport and in cinemas and theaters. |
| Meals & Dietary Requests |
| Included meals are based on the restaurant's set menu or buffet and usually represent local cuisine. Vegetarian meals are available in most locations, while vegan, protein-rich or gluten-free menus are rare. Special dietary requests, which must be selected in the passenger details section of your reservation, cannot be guaranteed. We are unable to provide meals in accordance with strict religious requirements, such as Kosher or Halal, nor can we accommodate specifically salt-free, high-protein or low-carb meals.
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| Holidays |
| On public holidays, there may be reduced public transportation, as well as limited hours or closures of attractions, shops and restaurants. |
| Holidays - Belgium |
Holidays 2024 Jan 1: New Year's Day Mar 31: Easter Apr 1: Easter Monday May 1: Labor Day May 9: Ascension Day May 19: Whit Sunday May 20: Whit Monday Jul 21: Belgian National Day Aug 15: Feast of the Assumption Nov 1: All Saints' Day Nov 11: Armistice Day Dec 24: Christmas Eve Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: Boxing Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve Holidays 2025 Jan 1: New Year's Day Apr 20: Easter Apr 21: Easter Monday May 1: Labor Day May 29: Ascension Day Jun 8: Whit Sunday Jun 9: Whit Monday Jul 21: Belgian National Day Aug 15: Feast of the Assumption Nov 1: All Saints' Day Nov 11: Armistice Day Dec 24: Christmas Eve Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: Boxing Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve |
| Holidays - Holland |
Holidays 2024 Jan 1: New Year's Day Mar 29: Good Friday Mar 31: Easter Apr 1: Easter Monday Apr 27: King's Birthday May 5: Liberation Day May 9: Ascension Day May 19: Whit Sunday May 20: Whit Monday Dec 5: Saint Nicholas' Day Dec 24: Christmas Eve Dec 25: Christmas Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve Holidays 2025 Jan 1: New Year's Day Apr 18: Good Friday Apr 20: Easter Apr 21: Easter Monday Apr 26: King's Birthday May 5: Liberation Day May 29: Ascension Day Jun 8: Whit Sunday Jun 9: Whit Monday Dec 6: Saint Nicholas' Day Dec 24: Christmas Eve Dec 25: Christmas Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve |
| Holidays - Britain |
Holidays 2024 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 2: New Year Holiday (Scotland) Mar 17-18: St Patrick's Day (Northern Ireland) Mar 29: Good Friday Mar 31: Easter Apr 1: Easter Monday May 6: Early May Bank Holiday May 27: Spring / Late May Bank Holiday Aug 5: Summer Bank Holiday (Scotland) Aug 26: Summer Bank Holiday (England, Northern Ireland & Wales) Nov 30: St Andrew's Day Dec 2: St Andrew's Day (observed) Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: Boxing Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve Holidays 2025 Jan 1: New Year's Day Apr 18: Good Friday Apr 20: Easter Apr 21: Easter Monday May 5: May Bank Holiday May 26: Spring Bank Holiday Aug 4: Summer Bank Holiday Aug 25: Summer Bank Holiday Nov 30: St Andrew's Day Dec 24: Christmas Eve Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: Boxing Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve |
| Holidays - France |
Holidays 2024 Jan 1: New Year's Day Mar 29: Good Friday Mar 31: Easter Apr 1: Easter Monday May 1: Labor Day May 8: WWII Victory Day May 9: Ascension Day May 19: Whit Sunday May 20: Whit Monday Jul 14: Bastille Day Aug 15: Feast of the Assumption Nov 1: All Saints' Day Nov 11: Armistice Day Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve Holidays 2025 Jan 1: New Year's Day Apr 18: Good Friday Apr 20: Easter Apr 21: Easter Monday May 1: Labor Day May 8: WWII Victory Day May 29: Ascension Day Jun 8: Whit Sunday Jun 9: Whit Monday Jul 14: Bastille Day Aug 15: Feast of the Assumption Nov 1: All Saints' Day Nov 11: Armistice Day Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve |
| 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/reservations 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 |
| Belgium - Belgium's climate is very moderate, and does not reach extremes in any season. However, rain is frequent. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer, an all-weather jacket, and an umbrella. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops). Belgium Average Temperatures: https://www.gate1travel.com/weather/europe/default.aspx#belgium-weather |
| Holland - Holland's climate is moderate year round. However, rain is frequent. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer, an all-weather jacket, and an umbrella. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops). Holland Average Temperatures: https://www.gate1travel.com/weather/europe/default.aspx#belgium-weather |
| Britain - Spring and Fall: 40°F-60°F; Summer: 50°F-70°F; Winter: 35°F-45°F. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer, an all-weather jacket, and an umbrella. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops). United Kingdom Average Temperatures: https://www.gate1travel.com/weather/europe/default.aspx#britain-weather |
| France - Spring and Fall: 45-60°F; Summer: 60-80°F; Winter: 30-45°F. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather coat. France Average Temperatures: https://www.gate1travel.com/weather/europe/default.aspx#france-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. |
| Book & Film Recommendations |
| Many of our guests enjoy reading about their destination - either in advance of their trip or while traveling - as a way of adding context to their visit. Whether reading a traditional guide book, learning about the history and culture, or simply enjoying a fictional novel set in the destination, a good book can add greatly to your experience. Similarly, a good movie set in your destination helps set the mood before you travel. We asked our Tour Managers and staff to recommend books and films which past guests may have enjoyed. The following does not constitute an endorsement of any authors, books or films listed, it is merely a collection of guests' recommendations. |
| Preparing for Your Trip |
| Seat Assignments |
| As a courtesy service, complimentary airline seat assignments are requested on your behalf and, when available, are displayed in order of Passenger #1, #2 and so on. Assignments reflect the best available seats at the time of booking. Some airlines and/or fare types do not allow for pre-seating and require this be done at airport check-in only; in which case the display shows “N/A”. Seats are subject to change by your airline(s) including, for example, when there is a schedule change or equipment change after your initial booking; this may cause seat assignments to be changed or even cancelled. Some airlines offer preferred seating for an additional fee; these seats may only be purchased directly from the airline. You will need your family name and the 6-digit airline “Record Locator” which is displayed with the flight details on your reservation. In the event that you change seat assignments directly with your airline, changes will not be reflected on your invoice or documents. At the time that Gate 1 travel documents are issued, the currently assigned seats will be listed based on the assignments stored in your airline reservation at that time. Should you have questions regarding your assignments, please write to us at www.gate1travel.com/contactus. |
| Luggage & Packing |
| Checked bags are typically limited to a total dimension of 62 inches by adding length + width + height (example: 26"+26"+10" = 62”), and a maximum weight of 50 lbs (23kg). Smart Bags with a USB charging port, GPS tracking device and other high-tech features are prohibited as checked or carry-on baggage unless the bag is made with removable batteries and the batteries are removed and stored separately. Many airlines charge for checked bags including flights which begin and end within the USA. The most inexpensive airfare options commonly known as Basic Economy airfares do not include any checked bags nor seat assignments before the day of departure. However, for some airlines, other airfare categories also do not include checked baggage. This will be clearly displayed in our airfare selection and on your invoice. Where available, we highly recommend selecting airfares which include at least 1 piece of checked baggage. Gate 1 Travel is not responsible for checked bag fees, excess luggage or weight charges levied by an airline. Checked baggage allowances displayed on reservation details and invoices reflect the applicable allowance at the time of booking but are subject to change by your airline(s). For your airline’s requirements and fees, visit www.gate1travel.com/baggagefees.aspx. For important baggage information, visit www.gate1travel.com/luggage.aspx. Avoid placing valuables in your checked luggage. Federal law forbids the carriage of hazardous materials aboard the aircraft in your luggage, your carry-on or on your person. A violation can result in five years’ imprisonment and penalties of $250,000 or more (49 U.S.C. 5124). Hazardous materials include explosives, compressed gases, flammable liquids and solids, oxidizers, poisons, corrosives and radioactive materials. Examples: Paints, lighter fluid, fireworks, tear gases, oxygen bottles, and radio-pharmaceuticals. There are special exceptions for small quantities (up to 70 ounces total) of medicinal and toilet articles carried in your luggage and certain smoking materials carried on your person. Check the Transportation and Safety Administration (TSA) website www.tsa.gov to find out the current list of acceptable items you may bring on a plane before packing. We recommend that you use brightly colored luggage tags, straps or other identifiers to help you locate you luggage upon arrival or to describe it in the event that it is lost. |
| Day of Departure |
| Flight Services |
| What to do if You Need Assistance |
Whether you purchased your airfare from Gate 1 Travel or from the airline directly, please bear in mind that Gate 1 Travel does not own nor operate the airline(s), nor the airport facilities where they operate. At times, flying can be a frustrating experience, especially when things do not go exactly as planned, and airline explanations can be confusing or even misleading. Should you face a problem, remain calm and seek assistance either from the airline directly or from Gate 1. Please be aware that in most cases, on the day of your flight(s), airlines pass responsibility for your reservation to their staff at the airport and it is not always possible for Gate 1 Travel to intervene on your behalf, either through our reservations system or directly with your airline. |
| Arrival & Departure |
| Arrival Procedures |
| Upon arrival, please complete immigration formalities if necessary and claim your luggage. If your program includes airport arrival transfers, check your voucher for specific instructions, as they vary with every destination. In most cases, you will be met after collecting your luggage or passing through Customs by the local representative who will be holding a Gate 1 Travel sign and/or a sign with your name on it. In some instances you will be instructed to walk a short distance to a transportation counter. The company's name and location will be printed on your voucher. If for any reason you do not connect with the Gate 1 transfer personnel, go to the Tourist Information Desk and ask them to page the Gate 1 Travel representative or phone the number on your voucher. If you are delayed due to lost luggage, phone the number on the voucher or have a companion exit the Customs Area to advise the transfer representative. Be wary of airport scammers who offer unwanted assistance. If you are arriving without a pre-arranged transfer, we strongly recommend going to the Tourist Information Desk to ask for a licensed taxi or transfer service. You may be asked to pay for the transfer at the desk prior to the trip, this will ensure you are not charged extra during the trip. |
| What To Do When Your Flight Is Delayed |
| Airlines do not share flight manifest information. Therefore, the only way we may learn of a delay or schedule change while you are traveling is from you, the traveler. The sooner you are able to contact one of our offices, the better we can respond. Please refer to the Emergency Assistance instructions on this same document. Gate 1 Travel is only able to guarantee pre-reserved arrival transfers for up to one hour from the scheduled time, no matter the cause. In case you are delayed for any reason, and are unable to follow the instructions on your voucher, please make independent transfer arrangements and retain your receipts. Unused tour services, including transfers and hotel nights are not refundable. Upon you return home you will need to contact your airline and/or insurance carrier to investigate the possibility of reimbursement for any unused tour services. |
| Departure Procedures |
| If your program includes departure transfers, instructions will be stated on your voucher or provided locally. |
| Transfers |
| Due to local traffic and other extenuating circumstances, we ask that you allow 30 minutes from your scheduled transfer time for our representative to arrive. This includes hotel, airport and cruise transfers. Such possible delays are taken into consideration in scheduling transfers and you should therefore have no concerns about arriving late for your tour, flight or cruise. For transfers from a hotel, let the hotel reception desk or concierge know that you are waiting for a transfer. In the case of a missed transfer, reimbursement for your out-of-pocket expenses will be considered provided you obtain a written statement from the hotel's front desk verifying the length of time you waited, and the time you left the hotel, and a receipt for your transportation with time and date. The cost of a transfer is more expensive than hiring a taxi, as a Gate 1 transfer necessarily includes round trip service, or 'dead-leg'. Often the places of call (airports, seaports, hotels) demand entrance and parking fees, where drivers may have to wait for up to an hour. Passengers comfortable hiring a taxi on their own and do not require assistance will save money. |
| About Your Accommodations |
| Hotels |
| Gate 1 Travel has carefully selected each hotel based on overall quality, location, price, service, and cleanliness. All rooms are standard twin-bedded (two single beds) rooms with private facilities. Special requests such as bed types, smoking preference and connecting rooms are subject to availability. Room selection in all cases, unless otherwise reserved, is strictly at the discretion of the hotel's management on a run-of-house basis. Triple rooms consist of standard twin beds or one double bed plus a sofa/folding bed or cot for third person except in the U.S. and Canada, where triple rooms often consist of two double/queen beds for three persons; where available, a fee may be charged by the hotel for the addition of a cot/rollaway. The number of persons accommodated does not dictate the room size. Although available at most 4 and 5 star hotels, the use of air-conditioning abroad differs greatly from the United States, and is often shut down at night and from the end until the start of the summer months. Some lodges and accommodations in remote regions may not have all of the amenities, such as hairdryer, alarm clock and room service, that you might find in a larger hotel located in a city center. |
| Hotel Check-in/ Check-out |
| Hotel check-in time is generally not before 4:00 p.m. and check-out time is prior to noon. If you will be arriving early in the day or departing in the evening, hotels will usually allow you to store your luggage in their luggage room. Ask at the front desk if the hotel can check you in earlier, or let you stay later. |
| At Your Destination |
| Eco & Sustainable Tourism |
| We support global efforts to create a more eco-friendly world, intolerant of any forms of cruelty, abuse and intentional environmental destruction. To that end we ask that our clients maintain a watchful eye as they travel, and report any abuses they may encounter. One of the many benefits of tourism is the shared cultural knowledge and ultimate elimination of negative behavior through education. We rely on your good feedback to enable this element of symbiosis. As you travel and learn about foreign cultures, we ask first and foremost that you practice tolerance and respect for local customs. |
| Gratuities |
| Tipping is always a matter of personal discretion. For your convenience, please use the summary below as a guideline for recommended gratuity amounts. Gratuities may be paid in local currency or US dollar equivalent where accepted. Please be aware that tipping is considered by many locals to be a part of their normal remuneration and some may approach you for additional "compensation." There is no need to be intimidated by the request, nor should you feel pressured to pay more than recommended. If you become uncomfortable by any behavior you encounter, please advise your tour manager or phone our local office. Numbers are provided in your documents for your convenience. |
| Suggested Tipping: Escorted Tours |
Tour Manager (Coordinator; may or may not act as a guide): US $10 per person per day Driver (Provides chauffeur services and limited assistance with luggage): US $5 per person per day, US $3 per half day Local Guide (Offers in-depth information at specific locations. There may be one or many guides along a tour program): US $5 per person per day of sightseeing, US $3 per half day Hotel porters and wait staff: Included |
| Belgium - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. Restaurant bills often include a service charge. |
| Holland - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. Restaurant bills often include a service charge. |
| United Kingdom - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. |
| France - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. |
| About Your Sightseeing |
| To ensure a pleasant and fair experience for passengers on our escorted tours, there is a mandatory seat rotation policy on our motor coaches which will be organized by your Tour Manager. On river cruises, color-coded group splits may be used for shoreside included and Optional tours. Some buses are equipped with toilet facility, however they are strictly intended for emergency use only and often require the vehicle to stop for safety reasons before use. When travel dates coincide with religious holidays and national celebrations, some monuments and sites may be closed, sometimes without prior notice. On these occasions, escorted touring itineraries may be amended to reflect these closures. Occasionally, during holidays and certain periods, and/or due to other unforeseen circumstances including weather conditions, there may be last-minute changes, sometimes after arrival, which may affect the sequence of the tour and locations visited. National monuments and tourist sites regularly undergo renovations, which can obscure the monument's view. No tour will be canceled due to renovations, however Gate 1 will decide based on the conditions whether to amend an itinerary. To respect the privacy of all tour participants, your tour manager will not organize a group photo or collect passenger email addresses for a group list. |
| Land Only Passengers (Escorted Tours) |
| Your tour manager will contact you after your arrival at your hotel. Passengers who have not purchased arrival transfers from Gate 1 Travel should proceed directly to the hotel for check-in. The details of the hotel can be found in your documents. |
| Purchasing Tours Locally |
| On escorted tours, the guides will generally sell optional tours to passengers who have not pre-purchased them. Payment can be made by cash or credit card, unless otherwise noted below. This does not apply to Independent packages. Please see Gate 1 Terms & Conditions for more information. https://www.gate1travel.com/terms.aspx#optional |
| Independent Activities - Gate 1 itineraries may contain suggestions for activities for your leisure time; these suggestions do not constitute a recommendation nor an endorsement of any specific service provider and the decision to participate in any such activities should be made independently and with due consideration. Gate 1 is not responsible for any activities not expressly included in its programs. Caution should be exercised when selecting certain activities that may require physical strength, coordination or exertion. Particular care should be taken when considering animal rides, such as on camels, mules or horses |
| Belgium - The Euro is the currency of Belgium. |
| Holland - The Euro is the currency of Holland. |
| Britain - The Pound sterling is the currency of the United Kingdom, including England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. |
| France - The Euro is the currency of France. |
| 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. |
| Belgium - Special purchases include ceramics and hand-beaten copperware from Dinant, gourmet chocolates, crystal , diamonds, jewelry, lace and woodcarvings. |
| Holland - Special purchases include beautiful Delft blue pottery and pottery from Makkum and Workum, costume dolls, silverware from Schoonhoven, glass and crystal from Leerdam and diamonds from Amsterdam. |
| Britain - Stores are open from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Many larger stores are open Sunday from noon until 6 p.m. London offers wonderful department stores and designer boutiques. The shops of Regent Street and Covent Garden are especially worth visiting. The British countryside is known for its quaint shops, handmade glassware, crafts and antiques. |
| France - In Paris, stores are open from 10 am to 7 pm, Monday through Saturday. Larger stores are open Sunday from noon until 6 pm Many large department stores and designer boutiques are located in Paris. The French countryside is known for its quaint shops, farm markets and vineyards. Good buys include lace, crystal, glass, and fine wines and liqueurs. |
| Your Safety is Very Important |
|
Prior to your trip, if you are traveling overseas, we strongly recommend that you visit the website of the U.S. Department of State at www.travel.state.gov, specifically the section which addresses International Travel. You should read the tips for foreign travel and travel warnings for the country or countries that you plan to visit. It is also important that you do not allow your common sense to take a vacation while on your trip. Here are several tips which, if followed, will save much potential hardship:
If you've purchased an escorted tour program, your travel documents will include telephone numbers of local Gate 1 Travel representatives who will do their utmost to assist you in the event of an emergency. The numbers are printed on your Gate 1 Travel vouchers. Please copy the numbers. Once you relinquish the voucher, you will not have this information. Passengers traveling independently should employ the services of hotel concierges and local authorities. |
| Tourist Street Scams |
Pickpockets and thieves can destroy an otherwise wonderful holiday. Be mindful of these precautions to help avoid being scammed or robbed:
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| Local Emergency Phone Numbers |
Belgium
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Holland
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Britain
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France
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| Languages |
| Belgium - Dutch, French and German are the official languages. English is generally spoken in tourist areas. |
| Holland - Dutch is the local language. English is generally spoken in tourist areas. |
| Britain - English is the local language. In Wales, Welsh is also spoken. |
| France - French is the local language. English is generally spoken in tourist areas. |
| Electricity |
| Please note: The U.S. uses 120 volts and you can purchase a converter and transformer at most hardware stores for your 120V appliances. |
| Belgium - The voltage used is 230 volts. |
| Holland - The voltage used is 230 volts. |
| Britain - The voltage used is 240 volts. |
| France - The voltage used is 220 volts. |
| Code of Conduct |
| Belgium - Shaking hands is the standard greeting. Common courtesies should be observed, and conservative casual dress is appropriate. |
| Holland - Shaking hands is the standard greeting. Common courtesies should be observed, and conservative casual dress is appropriate. |
| Britain - The monarchy, though now only symbolic, is a powerful unifying force. Shaking hands is the standard greeting. Normal social courtesies should be observed. Smoking is prohibited in some public buildings, buses, and the London Underground. |
| France - Shaking hands is the standard greeting. Closer acquaintances and friends may kiss both cheeks. The form of personal address is simply Monsieur or Madame without a surname and people may not immediately offer to be familiar on a first name basis. Casual wear is appropriate, but more stylish dress would not be out of place. Smoking is prohibited on public transport and in cinemas and theaters. |
| Meals & Dietary Requests |
| Included meals are based on the restaurant's set menu or buffet and usually represent local cuisine. Vegetarian meals are available in most locations, while vegan, protein-rich or gluten-free menus are rare. Special dietary requests, which must be selected in the passenger details section of your reservation, cannot be guaranteed. We are unable to provide meals in accordance with strict religious requirements, such as Kosher or Halal, nor can we accommodate specifically salt-free, high-protein or low-carb meals.
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| Holidays |
| On public holidays, there may be reduced public transportation, as well as limited hours or closures of attractions, shops and restaurants. |
| Holidays - Belgium |
Holidays 2024 Jan 1: New Year's Day Mar 31: Easter Apr 1: Easter Monday May 1: Labor Day May 9: Ascension Day May 19: Whit Sunday May 20: Whit Monday Jul 21: Belgian National Day Aug 15: Feast of the Assumption Nov 1: All Saints' Day Nov 11: Armistice Day Dec 24: Christmas Eve Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: Boxing Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve Holidays 2025 Jan 1: New Year's Day Apr 20: Easter Apr 21: Easter Monday May 1: Labor Day May 29: Ascension Day Jun 8: Whit Sunday Jun 9: Whit Monday Jul 21: Belgian National Day Aug 15: Feast of the Assumption Nov 1: All Saints' Day Nov 11: Armistice Day Dec 24: Christmas Eve Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: Boxing Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve |
| Holidays - Holland |
Holidays 2024 Jan 1: New Year's Day Mar 29: Good Friday Mar 31: Easter Apr 1: Easter Monday Apr 27: King's Birthday May 5: Liberation Day May 9: Ascension Day May 19: Whit Sunday May 20: Whit Monday Dec 5: Saint Nicholas' Day Dec 24: Christmas Eve Dec 25: Christmas Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve Holidays 2025 Jan 1: New Year's Day Apr 18: Good Friday Apr 20: Easter Apr 21: Easter Monday Apr 26: King's Birthday May 5: Liberation Day May 29: Ascension Day Jun 8: Whit Sunday Jun 9: Whit Monday Dec 6: Saint Nicholas' Day Dec 24: Christmas Eve Dec 25: Christmas Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve |
| Holidays - Britain |
Holidays 2024 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 2: New Year Holiday (Scotland) Mar 17-18: St Patrick's Day (Northern Ireland) Mar 29: Good Friday Mar 31: Easter Apr 1: Easter Monday May 6: Early May Bank Holiday May 27: Spring / Late May Bank Holiday Aug 5: Summer Bank Holiday (Scotland) Aug 26: Summer Bank Holiday (England, Northern Ireland & Wales) Nov 30: St Andrew's Day Dec 2: St Andrew's Day (observed) Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: Boxing Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve Holidays 2025 Jan 1: New Year's Day Apr 18: Good Friday Apr 20: Easter Apr 21: Easter Monday May 5: May Bank Holiday May 26: Spring Bank Holiday Aug 4: Summer Bank Holiday Aug 25: Summer Bank Holiday Nov 30: St Andrew's Day Dec 24: Christmas Eve Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: Boxing Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve |
| Holidays - France |
Holidays 2024 Jan 1: New Year's Day Mar 29: Good Friday Mar 31: Easter Apr 1: Easter Monday May 1: Labor Day May 8: WWII Victory Day May 9: Ascension Day May 19: Whit Sunday May 20: Whit Monday Jul 14: Bastille Day Aug 15: Feast of the Assumption Nov 1: All Saints' Day Nov 11: Armistice Day Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve Holidays 2025 Jan 1: New Year's Day Apr 18: Good Friday Apr 20: Easter Apr 21: Easter Monday May 1: Labor Day May 8: WWII Victory Day May 29: Ascension Day Jun 8: Whit Sunday Jun 9: Whit Monday Jul 14: Bastille Day Aug 15: Feast of the Assumption Nov 1: All Saints' Day Nov 11: Armistice Day Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve |
It was a great trip. Making reservations, communications, flight, airport pickups, tour manager- Colin, hotel rooms, breakfast, coach buses, drivers, guides, travel to various countries and places, train ride, airport drop off and return flights were amazing. Great communication, guidance for leisure days etc. were more than expected. Thank you for making our trip a memorable one.
Minesh G.
We truly enjoyed our trip big time! This is our first time with Gate1! Our Tour Manager Nick was very knowledgeable, so friendly and kind we'll definitely book another trip soon. I hope Nick will be our Tour Manager again. I already shared our experiences with my relatives and friends. We are very satisfied with Gate1! Looking on Scandinavia tours for our next trip.
Luzviminda M.
Marc, our tour manager, and Darren, our bus driver. Both people were amazingly wonderful. Very professional and accommodating. Marc made us feel very welcome and relaxed upon arrival. After a long day of travel and being strangers in a country, it was natural to feel anxious and nervous but Marc immediately instilled confidence in us as he welcomed us in Amsterdam. Throughout the entire trip and during our departure, he was always there to assist everyone. Marc embodies the true meaning of professionalism. This was our second Gate 1 travel trip and so far, Marc has raised the bar when it comes to effective customer interaction and satisfaction. The places we visited and the popular landmarks in each country are just secondary reminders of the memories of those places. What sticks to our minds the most is the outstanding travel experience provided by Marc and Darren. Both were very candid, with extraordinary personality and keen sense of humor. Thank you Marc and Darren for making our tour very memorable. Hope to travel with you again in the future.
Manuel M.
We enjoyed our trip and the sites that we visited. Great itinerary! We had a lovely stay at each hotel and the food was very good. JP, our travel director, was great! JP was very knowledgeable, and I can tell that he loved his job. JP also answered our questions and was always willing to help people.
Deanna G.
My trip to Europe via Gate1 was wonderful. This was my third trip to Europe; however I enjoyed it more because I didn't worry about planning anything. Our Tour Manager, Romain, was "Simply the Best". He was friendly, intelligent, thoughtful, engaging, had a great sense of humor, and solved any problems that we had. All of the countries that we visited were unique and special and I learned so much. All of the local tour guides were very knowledgeable about their country, and region, but I was extremely impressed with Nicolas who led us on our Walking Tour of Paris and our tour of The Palace of Versailles. Nicolas is a Master Storyteller and he was so engaging in sharing his knowledge about Paris and French culture. I have a Master's Degree in Social Science and Nicolas reminded me of two of my professors in Graduate School who displayed that same type of passion in teaching us about World War 1 and World War 2. Our driver Darron was friendly and very helpful. I enjoyed all of the people in our group and at some point I talked with all of them. I had a great vacation and I am looking forward to traveling again with Gate1.
Sandra K.
I'd like to take this opportunity to express our deepest gratitude to Thijmen, our travel guide through Amsterdam, Brussels, Bruges, Paris and London. He truly has a gift for hospitality. He was clear in all his communication, efficient with his service, and kind in all interactions with our group. His extensive knowledge, organization, and preparedness enabled us to relax and enjoy every moment of our vacation. His professionalism is superb, and yet he is friendly and approachable at all times. Please share with him our sincere thanks and good wishes for many blessings!
Marla B.
Our tour manager, Thijmen (Ty) was EXCELLENT! He made our entire trip an experience we will never forget. He was outstanding in every regard. You are fortunate to have such a capable, caring and fun-loving tour manager! Giannis, our driver, was a delight and went above and beyond when I misplaced a bag. Our local tour guide in Paris, Joyelle, was terrific ... but our local guide in London (Tim) was UNBELIEVABLE! He brought the history of England to life! I had goosebumps when he recited Churchill's famous "We shall fight on the beaches!" speech. The tour was absolutely wonderful in every way. The included tours AND the optional tours were great (Versailles was a tad too long, but enjoyable). I would always recommend taking the optional tours! Restaurants were lovely. One extra day in Bruges might be good. That city is awesome. This was our first Gate 1 tour but it won't be our last. It was more than we could have hoped for ... due in VERY LARGE PART to Thijmen. What an asset he is! We miss him!!
Francis L.
We had a wonderful time on the 10 Day Classic Amsterdam, Bruges, Paris & London trip. We had the good fortune to have Thijmen, Ty, as our guide. He was witty, kind and very well informed about each stop. He certainly made our time with him a pleasure. Our driver, Giannis, was very pleasant and took us safely through Holland, Belgium & France. Taking us to see the Eiffel tower lit up at night after a wonderful dinner was very special. Tim, our guide in London was terrific. He & Ty managed to help us circumvent a "protest" march & we safely marched on to see the sights in London. Tim made the Tower of London tour terrific. Thanks to Gate1 for having such great people working for them. Each day was a pleasure & the good weather was the icing on the cake!
James B.
I'm looking back on this trip with great memories. Our tour manager, Peter, was outstanding. He was extremely conscientious about all of our activities and schedules and always kept us informed of what to expect next. Any tiny issue that arose he took care of swiftly and professionally. Our bus driver, Yoris, was also magnificent. I marveled at how easily he maneuvered the narrow streets, especially at night with no street lights. He was always happy, smiling and even brought us cookies on several occasions. The hotels were wonderful and the food was interesting and plentiful. I particularly liked the French cooking class! I'm looking forward to my next Gate1 trip!
Linda W.
I just wanted to let you know that I had a great time on my last travels with Gate 1. I have been using your company since 2018 and always highly recommend it to my co-workers and family and friends! I just loved Luxemburg, it was beautiful and needed more time there, I would love to go back. I loved France, Obernia and the little town that we visited. What a beautiful place and diffidently need to go back there. My other favorite place was Heidelburg, needed more time there as well. I would love to go back to those places and have Peter as my guide. He was responsive to everyone's needs, and helped anyone that needed it right away. He took care of us and made sure we had everything we needed. He made fun at the cities with added games for everyone to play. He was always upbeat and would love to travel with some of the people that I met and have Peter as our guide. Thank you for having great tour guides, it makes a world of difference and wanting to come back to Gate 1 for all my travels!!
Rebecca C.
It was one of the most memorable trips I have taken with Gate One. Our tour manager Nicholas is the best that I encountered in 40 yrs of travels. His knowledge and service was beyond what I was expecting, And everyone in our group felt the same about him. I would give him 10 stars if that was possible. What an asset for Gate One.
Miguel G.
I had a magical time with Gate 1 again. I went on a trip a few years ago with family and decided to go on another trip by myself. As a solo traveler it is important to have a great tour company to make the journey less intimidating and keep everything organized. Gate 1 did not disappoint. Our Tour Guide Joaquin was top notch. He handled everything and went above and beyond to make sure that everyone had a trip that was memorable and full of fun. He went out of his way to help us all so much that I wondered what I would do when I got home to my real life and had to handle it without Joaquin! And I am in Law Enforcement, so that is saying something about how much we respected him and relied on him during our trip! We all had a blast and I made lots of friends along the way!
Donna B.
This was our 1st trip to Europe & with Gate 1. We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves & all the sightseeing we were able to do. Our tour manager, Arjan was very informative, friendly and helpful. He shared many trips with the group which we found very useful. We are looking forward to booking our next trip.
Patricia R.
We had a wonderful time traveling with Gate1; our trip was flawless. Arjan was an excellent and very knowledgeable tour guide. Our hotels were upscale and we plan on using Gate1 in the future.
Lavonne K.
A trip to Paris was so cliche until our youngest daughter wanted to go. As I always wanted to go to the Netherlands, we decided on your 8-day Amsterdam, Bruges, & Paris. Although I enjoyed every city and province we visited, Paris exceeded my expectations and I thank Gate 1 for that. It was an experience I will always remember.
Patrice W.
I already shared by feedback about our recent tour of Amsterdam, Brussels, Bruges, and Paris but I want to add how phenomenal our tour manager, Patrick was! Patrick went above and beyond sharing his knowledge about each destination. Not only was he informative but he was witty, approachable and a joy to be around. Our vacation experience was perfection. Every detail was carefully thought out so that we as the guests could sit back and relax and enjoy. Our driver, Ynes, was also fantastic and always offered us cold waters on the bus in addition to safely getting us around especially in traffic. Thank you so much for this wonderful experience. It won't be our last with Gate 1 and we look forward to future adventures.
Amy D.
Last month, we booked another vocation with Gate 1, the 12-day Holland, Germany, Luxembourg & Belgium, and this was our #5 times with Gate! It was really an amazing trip, and thanks in large part to our excellent TM, Eric. Eric was accurate, on point, professional, knowledgeable, resilient, thoughtful and overall, he was an outstanding professional. He diligently worked and was thoroughly prepared for each day, anticipating any risks along the way. Eric's deep understanding of the local culture, history, and traditions added a whole new dimension to our travel experience. The whole tour was planned, organized as well as executed perfectly! As our TM, he brought the region to life with his extensive knowledge, captivating storytelling, and infectious enthusiasm.
Li Y.
I had a great time! Our leader, Fahid, kept everything organized. I appreciated the schedule he gave us for the week as well as a listing of all pertinent information and recommendations. He has a wealth of knowledge about each place we visited. He was clear, informative, insightful and always to the point. I appreciated the little French lesson he gave us as we neared Paris. He gave us just enough background to present ourselves well as Americans to Parisians. I know a little French, but what he gave us turned out to be just enough to help me navigate Paris and have cordial interactions with Parisians. The river cruise in Bruges was a welcome surprise. The driver, David, was excellent as well. The bus was comfortable and clean. I always felt safe. I was surprised by how much I enjoyed the Dutch country tour. The visit to the windmill was memorable. The fish dinner we had that night was exceptional. I am always amazed by how many nice people Gate 1 attracts to its tours. At the last minute, my traveling companion needed to cancel so I went alone. I am 75. Everyone on the tour was so lovely to me. The whole group was congenial and interesting. I've been on other tours and have not found my fellow travelers to to be as friendly and gracious as the ones on Gate 1. This was my fourth Gate 1 tour. I have two more scheduled for 2023. The hotel in Amsterdam was excellent with a perfect location. I was a little disappointed with the hotel in Bruges, but I am also aware that a city that size has very few options for tour groups. The Mercure in Paris was a nice hotel with a particularly helpful staff. I wrote a review for the hotel commending two of their front desk employees, Farah and Marmie. The location was a distance from many Parisian attractions, but it helped to have the metro stop nearby. I would have no qualms about recommending this trip to my friends.
Diane S.
We just returned from a ten day tour of Amsterdam, Bruges, Paris and London. Our tour manager was Thomas. We cannot say enough good things about Thomas. He was so friendly, approachable, and kind. But even more importantly, his experience and knowledge and general view points on life and travel were empowering! He gave confidence to unseasoned travelers, new ideas to the more experienced, and shared of himself at the core for the entire trip. He has an exhausting job but he did it with a laugh and a smile on his face. I cannot say enough good about Thomas. I hope we will encounter him again along our journeys through this world. Thank you for finding him and sharing him with all of us.
JoLynn S.
Thank you so much for giving me an opportunity to share how much my husband and I enjoyed this Gate 1 tour! We were blessed with a wonderful tour director, Farid. He was knowledgeable about every place we visited while sharing a great sense of humor and a real concern for each person in the group. He took time to answer any questions and he went out of his way to suggest places to visit or restaurants in which to eat for those not going along on the optional tours. We were traveling with friends in this group and they were all impressed with Gate 1. I think you may have earned new loyal customers!
Colleen M.
I just wanted to send some positive feedback on our vacation to Amsterdam, Brussels and Paris during the 2022 Christmas time. It was my first Gate 1 trip and I couldn't have been more pleased with the whole experience. It was very well organized, we don't need to worry about anything! Our special big THANKS to tour manager Jean Pierre - he went above and beyond to make our time memorable, pleasant and informative! Everything ran smoothly because of him, we appreciated his knowledge and suggestions about local things. All together - it was a wonderful trip and I am looking forward to our next adventure with Gate 1!
Ella S.
I wanted to take the opportunity to write a brief comment about my travel experience. I gave everything on the survey an excellent rating because it really was a fabulous trip. It was my first Gate 1 trip and I chose the company because a friend had recommended Gate 1. I couldn't have been more pleased with the whole experience. The tour director made it so special and I loved being able to sit back and enjoy the trip without having to worry about any of the major logistics (luggage, transfers, directions) that come with international traveling. Our tour group got to know each other and we had a great group harmony. I look forward to traveling with Gate 1 again!
Tracy F.
I just wanted to send some positive feedback on my Gate 1 vacation to Amsterdam, Brussels, Paris, and London. My husband and I had a wonderful time, and we are already thinking of our next trip we will take through Gate1!! I loved the city tours, and that we also had a lot of free time to explore on our own. Our main tour guide throughout our trip, Marc, was exceptional! There are no words to effectively communicate how truly wonderful he was to all of our group, how smoothly everything ran because of him, and how care-free I could be on this trip due to his knowledge, anticipation, suggestions, information etc. He was so funny, positive, and full of great information. I really had such a wonderful and unique experience, and look forward to our next adventure.
Kami S.
I want Gate 1 to know about the extraordinary tour manager, Farid and bus driver, Bart that are in your employ. This was the 6th tour with Gate 1 and I've always been pleased. But Farid went above and beyond in providing us individual WRITTEN daily agendas, essential details such as phone numbers for emergencies, consulates, & hotels with information for public transportation that included the Station and Lines to points of interest. There are no words to explain how valuable that information was to me, enabling me to feel confident in cities where I don't speak the language. I sincerely wish that all tour managers would provide this detailed information, although I know that this preparation is done on one's own time and shouldn't be expected. We had 5 birthdays and Easter during my trip and was astounded at the generosity of Farid & Bart in the celebrations. I would also like to mention that they were both extremely professional and had great senses of humor! All in all, they truly are Gate 1's best assets and am hopeful that I may have the pleasure of another tour with them someday!
Sharon H.
The trip was the BEST!!!! I went with 2 of my friends. We all had our own rooms. The Hotels were great and the staff was fantastic. The tours included in the package were great, we also did additional tours. The free time we had allowed us to mingle with the town folks and explore the cities at our leisure. The very best part was our Tour Manager Vic. His home was France, he knew everything about France and all the other countries were visited. He was fun, experienced, and knowledgeable about everything!! The other people traveling on the tour were the nicest!! from all over the world. I am looking forward to my next experience with Gate 1. Can not wait to check out some more trips.
Linda Y. Detroit, MI
We couldn't have asked for more on our dream vacation with my sisters. Our guide Vic and the bus driver were on top of everything. We didn't have to worry about a thing. Accommodations were great, food and information were all spectacular. Thank you Gate 1 for another amazing trip.
Laurene & Donald G. Wareham, MA
Our trip was wonderful! We did and saw so much that I want to go back now to just relax! Our guide, Arjan, was very knowledgeable and had a great sense of humor. He kept everyone upbeat. We added four additional activities, which were all amazing. We will travel again with Gate 1 in the future.
Vicki B. Andover, MN
Our trip to Europe was wonderful! Our tour manager, Nicholas, is an amazing person; his history/geography knowledge and customer service was beyond expectation. Very well organized tours, we sure will travel with Gate 1 again.
Linda P. Westminster, CA
Trip was excellent! Gate 1 did a great job. The tour guide Romain was great and took very good care of us all. We will definitely use Gate 1 travel again. Thanks for an excellent 20th Anniversary trip from my wife and I.
Edward J. Cary, NC
Our 10 day Classic tour was a family trip arranged to celebrate our granddaughter’s high school graduation ... All arrangements throughout the trip were seamless. Each city tour allowed time for photo opps and the optional excursions were well worth the price. Hotels were great, especially the Apollo in Amsterdam ... Our guide, Anita van Vliet, was amazing ... She handled unanticipated problems efficiently and always showed concern for the welfare of her clients ... Her professionalism and knowledge was obvious. Our bus driver, Moe, should also be acknowledged for his professionalism and generosity. He went above and beyond when a member of the group left a passport in a hotel safe. Gate 1 is very affordable, yet first class in so many ways, and I would not hesitate to recommend Gate 1 to anyone ... Thanks for everything!
Carole P. Salado, TX
In one word I would have to describe our excursion as, "exquisite."... We enjoyed learning about the history of important landmarks, relics, and culture of each country we toured. We were extremely pleased with the location of each hotel in proximity to various landmarks, shopping centers and restaurants ... Furthermore our tour manager Mr. Arjan, along with our tour guides, poured their heart into disseminating facts about the history of each country ... This was our very first Gate 1 travel tour and I can't wait to replicate our experience from being on the London to Amsterdam tour in the near future. We can't stop talking about our experience with friends and family.
Sonia J. Brooklyn, NY
Our first trip with Gate 1 was absolutely amazing! It was our first trip to Europe ... We are extremely grateful for our most excellent tour guide, Romain. He was very professional and took great care of our needs and tour logistics. In fact, would love to do another tour with him as our guide. We had the best ground transfer crews and local guides. I can’t wait to plan another trip with Gate 1 and I will recommend Gate 1 to all my friends. Thank you for helping me to plan a most memorable trip and experience.
Cheryl M. Fremont, CA
Our trip was great! Adorom, our tour director, was very professional and knowledgeable and made our trip exciting, comfortable and flawless. This was our first trip with Gate 1 and my wife and I were very pleased.
Mike M. Bristol, CT
My wife and I had a wonderful time on our honeymoon. I also want to add that our tour manager, Wesley, was amazing! He honestly made the trip for us with his organization, knowledge of the areas, humor, and overall willingness to do what needed to be done to ensure everyone enjoyed themselves. Our experience has us sold on taking another trip with Gate1 in the future.
Robert B. Charolette, NC
The trip from Amsterdam to London was perfectly paced, and quite enjoyable. Loved every moment! Ever charmed by Bruges and Paris, shear delights. Even a rainy London proved invigoratingly stimulating. A delightful excursion.
Cedric R. Fredericksbrg, VA
Our trip was very nice. We were especially happy with our Tour Manager, Adoram. He was the best one we've had in our 8 trips with Gate1!
Victoria B. Rosemount, MN
Our trip could not have been any better. From landing in Amsterdam to the time we left Paris we were treated like royalty. Our tour director, Adaram was amazing! We felt so lucky to have him leading our way through Europe. He is extremely knowledgeable and a total class act. He’s a true All Pro. Pasquel, our driver falls in the same category. We felt safe and taken care of beyond our expectations. Those two work together so well. It’s really tough to find people of their caliber. I also wanted to mention our tour guide at Versailles, Nicklaus, was by far the best tour guide I have ever been around. That guy is very interesting and entertaining. My trip was complete after experiencing Versailles under his leadership. I really was impressed with GATE 1. This is a first class operation and I will continue to spread the word!!!
Rita K. Lakeland, FL
Trip was fabulous. Seamless, from start to finish. Our tour guide Aryan was wonderful, informative, accommodating and he just made the trip one of our best.
Gary P. Somers, NY
My Trip was wonderful, the tour manager (Romaine) was excellent with a great sense of humor, knowledgeable and sensitive towards the passenger's needs and inquiries. Hotels were very clean and accommodation were good. Would definitely do another trip with Gate 1.
Ramona P. Flushing, NY
It was a wonderful trip thanks to our guide, Jean. He was superb; well organized, helpful and extremely knowledgeable about the history as well as everyday problems we may face in visited cities. Great job, Gate 1!
Bozena C. Redmond, WA
I loved the trip. Enjoyed going to new cities and revisiting others. Our tour guide and the local guides were fantastic. Can't wait for my next gate 1 trip!
Lidia G. Brooklyn, NY
Our tour guide Arjan was absolutely the best! Very knowledgeable and so fun. Would recommend this trip to friends and family.
Eny K. Litchfield Pk, AZ
Wonderful! Gate 1 took care of every detail, Romaine our tour guide was very pleasant, not one complaint. We thank everyone involved, Gate 1 has perfected vacations experiences. I really think you are under priced for what you offer. Unforgettable memories. Thank you!!!!
Russell H. Boynton Beach, FL
It was great! Everything we could have asked for and more! The accommodations were clean and comfortable and our guides and tour director Arjan were exceptional. We are saving money for our next trip! Thank you!
Cathleen B. Chatham, NJ
The trip was wonderful. The tour was organized perfectly, and the accommodations were very good. What makes the trip enjoyable is Mr. Naciri, whose knowledge of the places visited was impeccable, and his friendly helpful and joyous nature puts everyone at ease. Mr. Naciri is your hidden gem. Overall, I would recommend Gate 1 to all my friends and we will likely sign on with Gate 1 for our next trip. We had a wonderful time.
Frances L. Mukilteo, WA