8 Day Musical Journey Through the South
From
$2399
Land Only
$2739*
Air & Land
Featured Hotels
| Monday Departure | ||
|---|---|---|
| Drury Plaza Hotel Nashville Downtown | Nashville, TN | |
| Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center | Nashville, TN | |
| Hyatt Place Nashville Downtown | Nashville, TN | |
| Hilton Garden Inn Memphis Downtown | Memphis, TN | |
| Courtyard by Marriott Vicksburg | Vicksburg, MS | |
| Hampton Inn & Suites Vicksburg | Vicksburg, MS | |
| Drury Plaza Hotel New Orleans | New Orleans, LA | |
Not Included:
Transfers, optional tours and gratuities (unless otherwise specified).
Additional Information:
For arrival and departure on North America packages with US gateways, transfers are not included with Air & Land packages nor available on an optional basis unless otherwise noted in your itinerary. See Trip Preparation -> Arrival & Departure for more information regarding options to transfer to your hotel.
Accommodation Details:
Triple rooms 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.
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-Nashville, New Orleans-New York
Other departure cities available. Click on date of departure for selection and prices - 7 nights accommodations
- 2 nights Nashville
- 2 nights Memphis
- 1 night Vicksburg
- 2 nights New Orleans
- Hotel taxes, fees & service charges
- Hotel porterage
- 10 meals: 7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinners
- Sightseeing per itinerary in modern air-conditioned motor coach
- Services of English-speaking tour manager throughout
- Services of English-speaking local guides
- Entrance fees per itinerary
- Tips for porters, wait staff & local guides on included services
- Comfortable wireless earphones for enhanced touring
Special Features
- In Nashville, tour historic RCA Studio B, one of the oldest remaining recording studios in the U.S.
- Attend a performance at the renowned Grand Ole Opry, famous home of country music
- Follow in the footsteps of great musicians on Nashville’s Walk of Fame on Music Mile
- Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame, the world's largest popular music museum
- Tour Graceland, the palatial mansion of American legend Elvis Presley on his 14 acre estate
- Travel to Indianola to tour the BB King Museum honoring his extraordinary life and music
- Walking tour of the iconic French Quarter, the oldest neighborhood in vibrant New Orleans
Not Included:
Transfers, optional tours gratuities. (unless otherwise specified).
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 tourist class hotel is located in downtown Nashville, just a short walk from the Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum.
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
Travel to the heart of Southern Louisiana's swamplands in the protected Jean Lafitte National Park and Preserve's Barataria Preserve. View moss-draped cypress trees, fascinating plant life and the creatures who make their homes here. Learn about the culture and nature from your Cajun guide including the legends and lore of Louisiana's still untamed wilderness.
Approximate tour duration is 3 hours. Please bring sunscreen, hat, insect repellant and light clothes.
*Due to inclement weather, this tour may be canceled and refunded.
*This is not an exclusive tour and therefore you may be with passengers from other tour companies.
| Day #7 | 01 Mar 2026 - 30 Nov 2026 | $29.00 |
| 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 |
| ID Requirements for Domestic U.S. Flights |
| It is each traveler's responsibility to have valid photo identification for airline and security check-in. REAL ID-compliant license (or other TSA-approved form of ID) is required board a domestic flight. Please visit https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/identification for more details. |
| 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. |
| 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 |
| Please consult with your healthcare provider for up-to-date requirements. You may also check the Centers for Disease Control (www.cdc.gov) and/or the World Health Organization (http://www.who.int/en/) for their recommendations. Any required inoculations must be documented by clients' healthcare provider on a valid vaccination certificate, which must be carried as proof where necessary. Individuals with heart disease, chronic illness, physical handicap, advanced pregnancy, or mental illness should not participate in these rigorous travel programs. While traveling, illnesses can sometimes be unavoidable. If a traveler arrives feeling ill or becomes sick during the tour, they will be separated from the group and directed to either a local or virtual medical facility for diagnosis. This precaution is necessary to ensure the well-being of all travelers. The traveler may only rejoin the group after receiving written clearance from an accredited medical facility confirming they are fit to continue. All costs associated with medical treatment and related expenses such as additional hotel nights or transportation not included in the original itinerary will be the responsibility of the passenger. Travel protection plans will only consider coverage with service receipts provided by legally qualified health care facilities, and in accordance with policy terms. 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 |
| United States - The weather in the United States varies according to geographical area. The hottest period is from June to August and the coolest from November to February. Bring comfortable walking shoes, clothes you can layer, and an all-weather jacket. Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses are also recommended. You may encounter mosquitoes during warm and hot weather. Travelers are encouraged to bring insect repellent and consider wearing clothing that adequately covers arms and legs. For winter programs, come prepared for cold temperatures, icy trails, and short daylight hours. The National Park Service recommends bringing over-the-shoe-traction devices, extra snacks and layered clothing that can easily be added or removed to adapt to a variety of weather conditions USA Average Temperatures: Fahrenheit | Celsius |
| About Drones |
| Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) or "drone" technology has quickly become affordable and is increasingly popular with recreational users. While some countries have clear, established drone laws, others do not, or existing regulations are undergoing review and change. Travelers who wish to bring a drone on their trip are responsible to research and abide by the laws and regulations of the countries they are visiting, as well as to check with their airline(s) regarding their rules for transporting drones. Please note that tours are unable to extend the length of scheduled visits and stops to accommodate use of drones. |
| Preparing for Your Trip |
| Seat Assignments |
| As a courtesy service, complimentary airline seat assignments are requested on your behalf and, when available, are displayed in order of Passenger #1, #2 and so on. Assignments reflect the best available seats at the time of booking. Some airlines and/or fare types do not allow for pre-seating and require this be done at airport check-in only; in which case the display shows “N/A”. Seats are subject to change by your airline(s) including, for example, when there is a schedule change or equipment change after your initial booking; this may cause seat assignments to be changed or even cancelled. Some airlines offer preferred seating for an additional fee; these seats may only be purchased directly from the airline. You will need your family name and the 6-digit airline “Record Locator” which is displayed with the flight details on your reservation. In the event that you change seat assignments directly with your airline, changes will not be reflected on your invoice or documents. At the time that Gate 1 travel documents are issued, the currently assigned seats will be listed based on the assignments stored in your airline reservation at that time. Should you have questions regarding your assignments, please write to us at www.gate1travel.com/contactus. |
| Luggage & Packing |
| Checked bags are typically limited to a total dimension of 62 inches by adding length + width + height (example: 26"+26"+10" = 62"), and a maximum weight of 50 lbs (23kg). Smart Bags with a USB charging port, GPS tracking device and other high-tech features are prohibited as checked or carry-on baggage unless the bag is made with removable batteries and the batteries are removed and stored separately. Many airlines charge for checked bags including flights which begin and end within the USA. The most inexpensive airfare options commonly known as Basic Economy airfares do not include any checked bags nor seat assignments before the day of departure. However, for some airlines, other airfare categories also do not include checked baggage. This will be clearly displayed in our airfare selection and on your invoice. Where available, we highly recommend selecting airfares which include at least 1 piece of checked baggage. Gate 1 Travel is not responsible for checked bag fees, excess luggage or weight charges levied by an airline. Checked baggage allowances displayed on reservation details and invoices reflect the applicable allowance at the time of booking but are subject to change by your airline(s). For your airline's requirements and fees, visit www.gate1travel.com/baggagefees.aspx. For important baggage information, visit www.gate1travel.com/luggage.aspx. Avoid placing valuables in your checked luggage. Federal law forbids the carriage of hazardous materials aboard the aircraft in your luggage, your carry-on or on your person. A violation can result in five years' imprisonment and penalties of $250,000 or more (49 U.S.C. 5124). Hazardous materials include explosives, compressed gases, flammable liquids and solids, oxidizers, poisons, corrosives and radioactive materials. Examples: Paints, lighter fluid, fireworks, tear gases, oxygen bottles, and radio-pharmaceuticals. There are special exceptions for small quantities (up to 70 ounces total) of medicinal and toilet articles carried in your luggage and certain smoking materials carried on your person. Check the Transportation and Safety Administration (TSA) website www.tsa.gov to find out the current list of acceptable items you may bring on a plane before packing. We recommend that you use brightly colored luggage tags, straps or other identifiers to help you locate your luggage upon arrival or to describe it in the event that it is lost. |
| Intra-Flights |
| All intra-flights included in your package are booked in Economy Class. Checked bags are typically limited to a total dimension of 62 inches (157 cm) by adding length + width + height (example: 26"+26"+10" = 62" / 66cm+66cm+25cm = 157cm), and a maximum weight of 50 lbs (23 kg). Exceptions are listed below and may differ from international flight luggage limits. More detailed baggage restrictions for your airline can be found at www.gate1travel.com/baggagefees.aspx. |
| North America Intra-flights - If your program includes intra-flights, Gate 1 Travel is not responsible for any checked bag fees, excess luggage or weight charges levied by an airline on those intra-flights. |
| 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. |
| USA Airport Transfers - USA programs do not offer airport transfers (except 7 Day Affordable Zion, Bryce Canyon, Arches & Grand Canyon National Parks). There are various options you may book to suit any budget and service level. Here are a few options that may be available as well as more info about the cities you will visit. Hotel Shuttles - Some hotels offer complimentary or fee based shuttle service from the airport to the hotel. Many times these require long wait times and shared service with other clients of the hotel. Taxi - Taxis are readily available at the exits of airports for reasonable rates. Little or no service with bags can be expected from the drivers Ride Share Services - Using these apps makes for an easy and affordable option to transfer to the hotel. Little or no service with bags can be expected from the drivers Shared Shuttles - Local companies may offer shared shuttle transfer services for affordable rates. This offers convenience of pre-booking transfer service however many times these require long wait times and mediocre service. Private Car Transfers - while expensive, provides excellent door-to-door service and hassle free experience. |
| Nashville * Distance from Hotel to Airport: 8 miles * Approx. Taxi Cost: $27 * Approx. Ride Share Cost: $18-22 * Approx. Airport Shuttles Cost: $36-45 * Approx. Private Car Cost: $170 |
| New Orleans * Distance from Hotel to Airport: 15 miles * Approx. Taxi Cost: $46 * Approx. Ride Share Cost: $27-34 * Approx. Airport Shuttles Cost: $25 * Approx. Private Car Cost: $203 |
| 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. While air conditioning is available in most hotels, we recommend checking the room amenities listed under the "Featured Hotels" tab of your package to confirm. Please note that many international hotels were built before central air conditioning was introduced. In those that do offer air conditioning, usage may be restricted, often due to government regulations aimed at promoting energy conservation. It's typical for air conditioning to be used only during the summer months, to follow a set schedule (sometimes turned off at night), and to operate at lower settings than what many Americans are accustomed to. 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. |
| United States - Hotels in the United States are generally local or international chains of standard quality with a variety of amenities. Locally owned properties may have features that encompass the style of the region. Hotels in the National Park regions often provide limited amenities and due to limited outdoor lighting in the evenings, a flashlight is recommended. Many hotels require a credit card at check-in to cover incidentals. |
| 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. |
| Staggered Arrival & Departure |
| Many tours are offered with multiple duration options, allowing travelers to choose one or more destinations in a single trip. As a result, the number of participants on your tour may vary, as we accommodate travelers arriving and departing at different points in the itinerary. |
| 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 |
| 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! |
| 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 |
United States
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| Languages |
| United States - English is the local language. |
| 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. |
| United States - No converters or transformers will be necessary for US residents when traveling anywhere within the United States. |
| Code of Conduct |
| United States - Americans tend to be very friendly and informal, even with strangers. Greetings are usually casual and speaking on a first name basis is common. A handshake is the customary greeting, especially upon first meetings. Casual attire is generally expected unless in a formal situation. |
| 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 - United States |
Holidays 2026 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 19: Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Feb 16: President's Day Apr 5: Easter Sunday May 25: Memorial Day Jun 19: Juneteenth Holiday Jul 4: Independence Day Sep 7: Labor Day Oct 12: Columbus Day / Indigenous People Day Nov 11: Veteran's Day Nov 26: Thanksgiving Day Dec 25: Christmas Holidays 2027 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 18: Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Feb 15: President's Day Mar 28: Easter May 31: Memorial Day Jul 4: Independence Day Sep 6: Labor Day Oct 11: Columbus Day / Indigenous People Day Nov 11: Veteran's Day Nov 25: Thanksgiving Dec 25: Christmas |
| Suggested Tipping |
| Gratuities |
| Tipping is always at your personal discretion. For your convenience, please refer to the summary below as a guideline for recommended gratuity amounts. Gratuities may be paid in local currency or in the U.S. dollar equivalent where accepted, and we recommend keeping small bills on hand for tipping. Please note that in many destinations, tipping is considered a customary part of local compensation. While you may occasionally be approached for additional tips, you should never feel pressured to do so. If at any time you feel uncomfortable or uncertain about a situation, please speak with your Tour Manager or contact our office using the phone numbers provided in your travel documents. |
| Suggested Tipping: North America |
Tour Manager: US $12 per person per day Driver: US $5-7 per person per day, US $3 per half day Note: Tips for local guides, hotel porters, wait staff, and any other services listed in your itinerary are included, unless otherwise specified above. Drivers provide chauffeur services and limited assistance with luggage, and on some itineraries, you may encounter multiple drivers. |
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Had a Great Time! The Rain was an inconvenience but no one's fault! Loved the Warner Bros Tour! Inspection of Floats was also wonderful. It was not raining this day!
Margaret F.
Our first Gate 1 Trip and hopefully not the last! Our trip to Zion, Bryce, Arches and the Grand Canyon was just beautiful. Our fearless leader, Dani and our driver extraordinaire, Rod, was exceptional. They took such great care of all of us. Gate 1 should be proud and grateful for employees of this caliber. Dani and Rod worked well as a team. They were extremely friendly, welcoming, knowledgeable and quite tastefully entertaining. December was a perfect time to visit these parks. Although chilly, the parks with snow were gorgeous and magical. Less crowded, we were able to enjoy the genuine serenity of these true marvels on a whole different level. Thank you ALL at Gate 1 and all of our fellow travelers for such a wonderful experience.
Deb H.
The tour director, Kathryn, is the ideal in this type of travel. She has it all - charm, personality, good humor and the ability to make each person feel special. At all times she had every detail under control, which gave me and my travel partner the confidence to simply relax and enjoy the journey. There were simply no glitches, nothing overlooked, and the desire to please was always obvious. I celebrated my birthday on this tour and not only did Kathy acknowledge this, but she also encouraged others to offer congratulatory comments as well. She encouraged friendship with the other travelers because she is a natural leader bringing people together is just one of her gifts! Steve, the driver, was such a competent and careful driver that no matter how skinny the pass in the road, how tight the parking spot, he maneuvered like a champ. Steve is a warm and friendly man, acknowledging everyone and at the same time making each person feel welcome. I'd love to travel again with Kathy and Steve. No one would've guessed that they were traveling together for the first time. This was my second Gate 1 travel experience. Max and I took a river cruise on the Danube about a year ago. This was his third time with Gate 1, and we're looking forward to another trip!
Veronica F.
It's was a fantastic trip! Our guide Kathryn was fantastic. She was so well organized, punctual, and knowledgeable. Our bus driver Brandon was an excellent driver and navigated the tightest roads with grace and ease.
Cindy J.
Our trip was fantastic! Our stay in Detroit and Chicago, that included brief visits to the Tiger stadium and Wrigley Field while they were scheduled to play in the post season was exciting and our two-night stay on Mackinac Island at the Grand Hotel was magical! Our guide Steve was very informative and friendly; a truly wonderful trip where we met new friends, saw new places, checked off a bucket list item, learned some history and had happy memories to share!
Ann F.
We had a wonderful trip! Our tour manager Vicky was great, very knowledgeable with a pleasant, energetic personality. The National Parks we visited offered such vast beauty. The Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta was a breathtaking experience.
Susan E.
Our trip was very good; we could never have seen all the things we did if we had arranged everything ourselves. Our tour director was great and Jamie, our bus driver, was awesome. She was very professional and drove so good. The balloon festival was arranged so very well. The weather really cooperated, and we had a great (but tiring time)!!
Karen S.
Very good tour guide (Ja), and wonderful traveling companions. Loved all the sites and extras (evening cruise on Colorado River, and train free from Silverton to Durango, and visit to Taos Pueblo).
Robert D.
The trip was fantastic. Our guide and driver were the best I've ever experienced. The amount of knowledge of music was college level...people could probably get college credit for going on the trip! It was fun, informative and all encompassing. There was not a problem that wasn't anticipated and preempted. It was a great trip, my first with Gate1, I see more in my future. You are very lucky to have these two very dedicated employees, Jimmy and Tim.
Monica O.
I would like to thank our tour director, Haydee, and our bus driver. Jaz, a tremendous thank you for making our trip so special. Haydee was fantastic and a great leader with joyous enthusiasm, knowledge about the areas we visited, and a wonderful sense of adventure. Her dynamic personality and "can do" attitude made the trip one of our best! Jaz, was also, incredible - driving effortlessly and confidently through some very difficult terrain and narrow winding mountain roads. His attention to detail and prioritizing a smooth, safe drive for his passengers was paramount. On several occasions, he went the extra mile for the group to accommodate a special request without any hesitation. Everything was "absolutely " and "sure, no problem " with a sincere and gracious heart. He was extremely kind and courteous to all the passengers with a welcoming smile each morning and at days' end. Without a doubt, the BEST bus driver we have ever had. Haydee and Jaz made a great team and were awesome- just what you'd hope for in a group tour.
Lisa B.
We had a wonderful trip! Barbara was a wonderful tour manager, and our driver Susie was the best!!! We had wonderful weather and couldn't have asked for a better trip experience. Folks keep asking what my favorite part of the trip was and honestly, I can't pick only one thing! I was totally pleased with the whole package.
Nancy A.
OUTSTANDING! We were very impressed by the details and care that Gate 1 took to ensure our comfort, interests and security. Each leg of the journey was informative and comfortable. The accommodations were excellent. The special stops were an unexpected treat. At the top of all the accolades was our Tour Manager, Monica. She was the perfect blend of organization, information, sense of humor and passionate care. We could not say enough about the outstanding work she has done. Closely behind our admiration for Monica was our gratitude and appreciation for Bus Driver Jarod. His skills as a driver were matched only by his wonderful personality. As a team, Monica and Jarod are Crown Jewels for Gate 1. Thank you for the trip of a lifetime.
Gradin A.
Our trip was fantastic more than I was expecting. Very organized, our tour guide Monica was awesome so informative and such a great personality. The hotels were perfect and the food that was provided was very good. This was our first Gate1 tour and we will definitely be booking with you again.
Wendy D.
We had a fabulous time!! Timothy was terrific, very informative and knew exactly how to make everyone in the group comfortable and was extremely knowledgeable about the areas we visited. Ken, our bus driver, was also excellent and knowledgeable about the areas.
Sheri K.
It was a wonderful trip! Our tour manager Paula and bus driver Jinnie were very friendly, reliable, knowledgeable and professional! They are so far the best tour guide and driver I have ever had. This is my first time joining Gate1's tour, I will definitely use Gate1 for my future trips.
Wendy H.
I just wanted to say that our Gate1 guide, Timothy, was EXCELLENT!!! I can't say enough about him. Also, our bus driver, Jared was excellent as well. It was one of my favorite trips ever. I will definitely do another Gate1 trip.
Chanda S.
I was very glad I finally got the chance to go. I was a little worried about traveling by myself, but your guide, Kerry, and the whole group that traveled with me made me feel very comfortable and included. Thank you for your help and I touched base with one of your colleagues who answered a few questions the week before I left. You guys were champs.
Dennis T.
Our tour of National Parks was wonderful! It was very well organized and very informative. Our tour manager, Jolie, has made everyone comfortable and at ease, we were singing and joking around on the bus, friendships were made, educational videos and Jolie's informative conversations on the bus were very helpful and allowed us to prepare for what we were about to see. Jolie made sure that everybody was taken care of at any time, was very attentive to our needs. She asked people to share their life stories on the bus, some of them were unique and resulted in a very meaningful exchange. Our driver, Austin, was outstanding. We traveled many hundreds of miles, and at no time felt uncomfortable or anxious, despite sometimes difficult mountain driving. Overall, we had unforgettable experiences and a great adventure.
Vladimir D.
We have traveled with Gate 1 about 10 times so far, all tour managers are great. I want to say the manage of our recent tour, Vicky, is a talent tour manager. She is so good at organizing and managing the tour. Everyone in our group loves her!
Jianguo F.
My husband and I just completed the 8-day Mt. Rushmore Yellowstone trip, and it was fantastic!! Kathryn was so informative, funny and she made our trip extra special. Kathryn supplied us with so much information about every state we visited. Thank you so much Kathryn. She gave us so many surprises. Thank you again.
Denise D.
Our Alaska land and cruise experience was outstanding. We feel very fortunate to have had Ann as our Tour Director - she is friendly, so knowledgeable and always accessible! Her jewelry making class was a huge plus; her ginger lozenges much appreciated; her on shore notes very helpful!
Stephen M.
The tour is very well planned and visits many wonderful scenic and historical places. Our excellent guide, manager was great. He took care of our needs and was extremely knowledgeable of Hawaii history and the local sites. He provided us with everything we needed to The tour including some excellent meals and great entertainment. We loved the Hawaii Dance and other entertainment. While our tour included 16 persons, we never felt that affected the manner of our travel or slowed us at all. The tour was a very low price for what we received. 1st time with Gate 1 Tours i keep using Gate 1 Tours All the time . Thank you Gate 1.
Janak P.
We had a wonderful tour of Yellowstone, the Grand Tetons, and Mount Rushmore. Our tour director, Marianne, was so thorough and caring that she made everyone feel welcomed. We were blessed to have a small group of nineteen and it made for a pleasant group who enjoyed each other's company. Our driver, Jerone, made us all feel very safe as we traveled mile after mile Gate 1 does a great job of coordinating trips and hiring wonderful staff to insure that their customers want to come back again and again. Thank you for all you do to help us make terrific memories.
Colleen M.
We had a wonderful trip! Our tour guide, Bobby, was fantastic! His consideration for everyone's needs was exceptional and his knowledge about the tour sites was accurate and very well delivered in a personable and humorous way. Our tour group was smaller, and all were very considerate. The driver, Ron, was excellent. The accommodation was clean and comfortable. We took home very happy memories of all the places we visited as well as the people we met. Gate1 is fortunate to have Bobby as a tour director, and we will recommend Gate1 to our friends.
Anne M.
The trip was great. Jason was an amazing tour guide. I can't begin to praise him enough. He was so knowledgeable, efficient, kind and went way out of his way to ensure we received the best experience while juggling the government shutdown of National Parks. His expertise was evident in a million different small ways that had a huge impact on the overall experience.
Carolyn M.