14 Day Dalmatian Isles, Croatia & Slovenia
From
$3749
Land Only
$4849*
Air & Land
Featured Hotels
(Hotels may vary based on departure day of the week)
| Sunday Departure | ||
|---|---|---|
| Royal Ariston Hotel | Dubrovnik | |
| Hotel Liburna | Korcula | |
| Amfora Hvar Grand Beach Resort | Hvar | |
| Amphora Hotel | Split | |
| Hotel Astoria | Opatija | |
| Rikli Balance Hotel | Bled | |
| Hotel Papadopoli Venezia - MGallery | Venice | |
| Monday Departure | ||
|---|---|---|
| Royal Ariston Hotel | Dubrovnik | |
| Hotel Liburna | Korcula | |
| Port 9 Hotel | Korcula | |
| Amfora Hvar Grand Beach Resort | Hvar | |
| Amphora Hotel | Split | |
| Hotel Astoria | Opatija | |
| Grand Hotel Toplice | Bled | |
| Hotel Papadopoli Venezia - MGallery | Venice | |
| Tuesday Departure | ||
|---|---|---|
| Royal Ariston Hotel | Dubrovnik | |
| Hotel Liburna | Korcula | |
| Marko Polo Hotel by Aminess | Korcula | |
| Port 9 Hotel | Korcula | |
| Amfora Hvar Grand Beach Resort | Hvar | |
| Adriana Hvar Spa Hotel | Hvar | |
| Riva Marina Hvar Hotel | Hvar | |
| Amphora Hotel | Split | |
| Hotel Astoria | Opatija | |
| Rikli Balance Hotel | Bled | |
| Hotel Papadopoli Venezia - MGallery | Venice | |
| Thursday Departure | ||
|---|---|---|
| Royal Ariston Hotel | Dubrovnik | |
| Hotel Liburna | Korcula | |
| Marko Polo Hotel by Aminess | Korcula | |
| Port 9 Hotel | Korcula | |
| Amfora Hvar Grand Beach Resort | Hvar | |
| Adriana Hvar Spa Hotel | Hvar | |
| Riva Marina Hvar Hotel | Hvar | |
| Amphora Hotel | Split | |
| Hotel Astoria | Opatija | |
| Rikli Balance Hotel | Bled | |
| Hotel Papadopoli Venezia - MGallery | Venice | |
| Saturday Departure | ||
|---|---|---|
| Royal Ariston Hotel | Dubrovnik | |
| Hotel Liburna | Korcula | |
| Marko Polo Hotel by Aminess | Korcula | |
| Port 9 Hotel | Korcula | |
| Amfora Hvar Grand Beach Resort | Hvar | |
| Adriana Hvar Spa Hotel | Hvar | |
| Riva Marina Hvar Hotel | Hvar | |
| Amphora Hotel | Split | |
| Hotel Astoria | Opatija | |
| Rikli Balance Hotel | Bled | |
| Hotel Papadopoli Venezia - MGallery | Venice | |
Click a Date to Book Online
Click a Date to Book Online
| 2023 Dates & Prices Single Supplement: $1050 | ||||||
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| Hotel | Dates | Embark | Tour Starts | Ship | Land Only | Air & Land |
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$4199 | $6049* | ||||
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$4199 | $6029* | ||||
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$4249 | $6019* | ||||
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$4199 | $6709* | ||||
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$4299 | $6449* | ||||
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$4049 | $6189* | ||||
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$4199 | $5799* | ||||
| $4299 | $5369* | |||||
| $4449 | $5399* | |||||
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$4549 | $5539* | ||||
| Only 1 seat left! | $4399 | $5729* | ||||
| $4449 | $5529* | |||||
| $3879 | $5209* | |||||
| $4449 | $5779* | |||||
| $4449 | $5779* | |||||
| $4549 | $5479* | |||||
| $3879 | $5209* | |||||
| $4349 | $5669* | |||||
| $4299 | $5619* | |||||
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$4549 | $5439* | ||||
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$4549 | $5539* | ||||
| $4349 | $5709* | |||||
| $4449 | $5599* | |||||
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$4349 | $5529* | ||||
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$4349 | $5499* | ||||
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$4349 | $5149* | ||||
| Only 1 seat left! | $4349 | $5449* | ||||
| $4349 | $5519* | |||||
| $4249 | $5399* | |||||
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$4249 | $5069* | ||||
| $3999 | $5099* | |||||
| $4149 | $5259* | |||||
| $3999 | $5149* | |||||
| $3899 | $4939* | |||||
| Only 1 seat left! | $4149 | $5249* | ||||
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$4099 | $5269* | ||||
| $4099 | $5219* | |||||
| $3749 | $4849* | |||||
| Only 1 seat left! | $3999 | $5119* | ||||
| $4099 | $5029* | |||||
Not Included:
Optional tours and gratuities.
Additional Information:
Land only prices do not include arrival/departure transfers.
Entry Requirements:
Passengers traveling abroad require a passport valid for six months beyond their travel dates. All travelers are responsible to check if a visa is required for all countries on their itinerary. For visa information, check our Visas page.
Passengers traveling abroad require a passport valid for six months beyond their travel dates. All travelers are responsible to check if a visa is required for all countries on their itinerary. For visa information, check our Visas page.
Is This Trip Right for You?
This moderately active trip covers a lot of ground most days. Expect up to three to four hours walking every touring day, where you could encounter some uneven surfaces, cobbled streets, stairs, and steep slopes. Some hiking may be required to access some sites. The longest day spent on the bus is between Split and Opatija, but will include several stops for lunch and breaks. This is a Small Group program. For more information, click here.
Package Includes
- Small groups of maximum 22 travelers guaranteed
- Flights New York-Dubrovnik, Venice-New York
Other departure cities available. Click on date of departure for selection and prices - Airline taxes & fuel surcharges
- 12 nights accommodations
- 3 nights Dubrovnik
- 1 night Korcula Island
- 2 nights Hvar
- 1 night Split
- 2 nights Opatija
- 2 nights Bled
- 1 night Venice
- Hotel taxes, fees & service charges including Italian city hotel taxes
- Hotel porterage
- All transfers included only with airfare purchase on package arrival & departure dates†
- 24 meals: 12 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 8 dinners (including a home hosted dinner)
- Sightseeing per itinerary in modern air-conditioned vehicles
- Services of local English-speaking tour manager throughout
- Comprehensive, guided sightseeing and entrance fees per itinerary
- Active itinerary with unique cultural features
- Comfortable wireless earphones for enhanced touring
Tour Highlights
Thanks to our small group size, we can get to the heart of our destination, visit places that other tours miss, and get to know the locals.
- Share a meal with a Dubrovnik family as guests in their home
- Stop for wine tasting at a local winery in Peljesac Peninsula, famous for its wines
- Explore the magnificent Dalmatian Islands of Korcula and Hvar
- Enjoy a sightseeing tour of Hvar and view the first public theatre in Europe, one of the great cultural treasures of Croatia
- Tour magnificent Plitvice Lakes National Park, a network of 16 terraced basins
- Board an authentic pletna on Lake Bled, a unique rowing boat used for generations
- Visit the medieval Church of St. John the Baptist, over 700 years old
†Transfers are available for purchase for land only or on alternative flight dates
Is This Trip Right for You?
This moderately active trip covers a lot of ground most days. Expect up to three to four hours walking every touring day, where you could encounter some uneven surfaces, cobbled streets, stairs, and steep slopes. Some hiking may be required to access some sites. The longest day spent on the bus is between Split and Opatija, but will include several stops for lunch and breaks. This is a Small Group program. For more information, click here.
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Note: your itinerary will change depending upon the day of the week you depart. Click a day above to see what is included.
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Discovery Tours 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.
Royal Ariston Hotel, Dubrovnik
Hotel Liburna, Korcula
This first class hotel is located on the shore of the Adriatic Sea, just a 10-minute walk from the Old Town of Korcula.
Hotel Details
Amfora Hvar Grand Beach Resort, Hvar
Amphora Hotel, Split
Hotel Astoria, Opatija
This first class hotel is located close to the city center and within walking distance of the famous seaside promenade Lungomare.
Hotel Details
Rikli Balance Hotel, Bled
This first class hotel is located in the center of Bled with a beautiful view of Lake Bled, the island, the castle and the Julian Alps.
Hotel Details
Hotel Papadopoli Venezia - MGallery, Venice
This first class hotel is situated on the romantic Canal dei Tolentini, a few steps away from Piazzale Roma and the Grand Canal.
Hotel Details
Royal Ariston Hotel, Dubrovnik
Hotel Liburna, Korcula
This first class hotel is located on the shore of the Adriatic Sea, just a 10-minute walk from the Old Town of Korcula.
Hotel Details
Port 9 Hotel, Korcula
Amfora Hvar Grand Beach Resort, Hvar
Amphora Hotel, Split
Hotel Astoria, Opatija
This first class hotel is located close to the city center and within walking distance of the famous seaside promenade Lungomare.
Hotel Details
Grand Hotel Toplice, Bled
Hotel Papadopoli Venezia - MGallery, Venice
This first class hotel is situated on the romantic Canal dei Tolentini, a few steps away from Piazzale Roma and the Grand Canal.
Hotel Details
Royal Ariston Hotel, Dubrovnik
Hotel Liburna, Korcula
This first class hotel is located on the shore of the Adriatic Sea, just a 10-minute walk from the Old Town of Korcula.
Hotel Details
Marko Polo Hotel by Aminess, Korcula
Port 9 Hotel, Korcula
Amfora Hvar Grand Beach Resort, Hvar
Adriana Hvar Spa Hotel, Hvar
This first class hotel is located on Hvar's promenade, and overlooks the marina and town.
Hotel Details
Riva Marina Hvar Hotel, Hvar
This superior tourist class hotel is located in the heart of medieval Riva, overlooking the waterfront promenade.
Hotel Details
Amphora Hotel, Split
Hotel Astoria, Opatija
This first class hotel is located close to the city center and within walking distance of the famous seaside promenade Lungomare.
Hotel Details
Rikli Balance Hotel, Bled
This first class hotel is located in the center of Bled with a beautiful view of Lake Bled, the island, the castle and the Julian Alps.
Hotel Details
Hotel Papadopoli Venezia - MGallery, Venice
This first class hotel is situated on the romantic Canal dei Tolentini, a few steps away from Piazzale Roma and the Grand Canal.
Hotel Details
Royal Ariston Hotel, Dubrovnik
Hotel Liburna, Korcula
This first class hotel is located on the shore of the Adriatic Sea, just a 10-minute walk from the Old Town of Korcula.
Hotel Details
Marko Polo Hotel by Aminess, Korcula
Port 9 Hotel, Korcula
Amfora Hvar Grand Beach Resort, Hvar
Adriana Hvar Spa Hotel, Hvar
This first class hotel is located on Hvar's promenade, and overlooks the marina and town.
Hotel Details
Riva Marina Hvar Hotel, Hvar
This superior tourist class hotel is located in the heart of medieval Riva, overlooking the waterfront promenade.
Hotel Details
Amphora Hotel, Split
Hotel Astoria, Opatija
This first class hotel is located close to the city center and within walking distance of the famous seaside promenade Lungomare.
Hotel Details
Rikli Balance Hotel, Bled
This first class hotel is located in the center of Bled with a beautiful view of Lake Bled, the island, the castle and the Julian Alps.
Hotel Details
Hotel Papadopoli Venezia - MGallery, Venice
This first class hotel is situated on the romantic Canal dei Tolentini, a few steps away from Piazzale Roma and the Grand Canal.
Hotel Details
Royal Ariston Hotel, Dubrovnik
Hotel Liburna, Korcula
This first class hotel is located on the shore of the Adriatic Sea, just a 10-minute walk from the Old Town of Korcula.
Hotel Details
Marko Polo Hotel by Aminess, Korcula
Port 9 Hotel, Korcula
Amfora Hvar Grand Beach Resort, Hvar
Adriana Hvar Spa Hotel, Hvar
This first class hotel is located on Hvar's promenade, and overlooks the marina and town.
Hotel Details
Riva Marina Hvar Hotel, Hvar
This superior tourist class hotel is located in the heart of medieval Riva, overlooking the waterfront promenade.
Hotel Details
Amphora Hotel, Split
Hotel Astoria, Opatija
This first class hotel is located close to the city center and within walking distance of the famous seaside promenade Lungomare.
Hotel Details
Rikli Balance Hotel, Bled
This first class hotel is located in the center of Bled with a beautiful view of Lake Bled, the island, the castle and the Julian Alps.
Hotel Details
Hotel Papadopoli Venezia - MGallery, Venice
This first class hotel is situated on the romantic Canal dei Tolentini, a few steps away from Piazzale Roma and the Grand Canal.
Hotel Details
Book your Optional Tours before you travel. See more, save time, save money.
- Tours purchased while travelling may cost an extra 10% or more
- Tours often sell out. Avoid disappointment
- Save your cash. Credit card processing may not be possible locally
- Travel insurance only covers services purchased prior to departure
- Book Online or call to book these tours up to 1 week before your departure
- The day the optionals operate varies by the day of the week
Full Day Montenegro
Drive towards the stunning Bay of Kotor, the longest and deepest fjord in southern Europe. On to the charming coastal town of Perast where a short boat ride takes you to the 15th century "Our Lady of the Rocks" Church perched on an islet in the bay. Once there, visit the Roman Catholic Church whose interior is decorated with 68 paintings by Tripo Kokolja, a famous 17th century painter from Perast. Proceed to the charming city of Kotor for a guided walking tour. View the Cathedral of St. Tryphon, Maritime Museum, numerous Palaces and Old Square and get to feel the atmosphere of this unique medieval town. Leisure time to walk the winding cobblestone lanes of the Old City before returning along the Dalmatian Coast to Dubrovnik
Pick-up details to be advised locally. Approximate tour duration is 10 hours.
Changes to the Schengen border rule may result in longer wait times at the border crossing between Croatia and Montenegro, thus creating a very long day.
| Day #4 | 01 Sep 2021 - 31 Dec 2023 | $65.00 |
Full Day Istrian Peninsula
Begin with an orientation tour of Pula, a strategic port since the times of the ancient Romans. Visit a Roman Amphitheater, the sixth largest of its kind to be preserved in the world today. Afterward, proceed to the beautiful resort town of Rovinj where you will enjoy free time exploring the old town and its narrow lanes before returning to Opatija.
Pick-up details to be advised locally. Approximate tour duration is 8 hours.
| Day #10 | 01 Sep 2021 - 31 Mar 2025 | $65.00 |
Full Day Montenegro
Drive towards the stunning Bay of Kotor, the longest and deepest fjord in southern Europe. On to the charming coastal town of Perast where a short boat ride takes you to the 15th century "Our Lady of the Rocks" Church perched on an islet in the bay. Once there, visit the Roman Catholic Church whose interior is decorated with 68 paintings by Tripo Kokolja, a famous 17th century painter from Perast. Proceed to the charming city of Kotor for a guided walking tour. View the Cathedral of St. Tryphon, Maritime Museum, numerous Palaces and Old Square and get to feel the atmosphere of this unique medieval town. Leisure time to walk the winding cobblestone lanes of the Old City before returning along the Dalmatian Coast to Dubrovnik
Pick-up details to be advised locally. Approximate tour duration is 10 hours.
Changes to the Schengen border rule may result in longer wait times at the border crossing between Croatia and Montenegro, thus creating a very long day.
| Day #4 | 01 Sep 2021 - 31 Dec 2023 | $65.00 |
Full Day Istrian Peninsula
Begin with an orientation tour of Pula, a strategic port since the times of the ancient Romans. Visit a Roman Amphitheater, the sixth largest of its kind to be preserved in the world today. Afterward, proceed to the beautiful resort town of Rovinj where you will enjoy free time exploring the old town and its narrow lanes before returning to Opatija.
Pick-up details to be advised locally. Approximate tour duration is 8 hours.
| Day #10 | 01 Sep 2021 - 31 Mar 2025 | $65.00 |
Full Day Montenegro
Drive towards the stunning Bay of Kotor, the longest and deepest fjord in southern Europe. On to the charming coastal town of Perast where a short boat ride takes you to the 15th century "Our Lady of the Rocks" Church perched on an islet in the bay. Once there, visit the Roman Catholic Church whose interior is decorated with 68 paintings by Tripo Kokolja, a famous 17th century painter from Perast. Proceed to the charming city of Kotor for a guided walking tour. View the Cathedral of St. Tryphon, Maritime Museum, numerous Palaces and Old Square and get to feel the atmosphere of this unique medieval town. Leisure time to walk the winding cobblestone lanes of the Old City before returning along the Dalmatian Coast to Dubrovnik
Pick-up details to be advised locally. Approximate tour duration is 10 hours.
Changes to the Schengen border rule may result in longer wait times at the border crossing between Croatia and Montenegro, thus creating a very long day.
| Day #4 | 01 Sep 2021 - 31 Dec 2023 | $65.00 |
Full Day Istrian Peninsula
Begin with an orientation tour of Pula, a strategic port since the times of the ancient Romans. Visit a Roman Amphitheater, the sixth largest of its kind to be preserved in the world today. Afterward, proceed to the beautiful resort town of Rovinj where you will enjoy free time exploring the old town and its narrow lanes before returning to Opatija.
Pick-up details to be advised locally. Approximate tour duration is 8 hours.
| Day #10 | 01 Sep 2021 - 31 Mar 2025 | $65.00 |
Full Day Montenegro
Drive towards the stunning Bay of Kotor, the longest and deepest fjord in southern Europe. On to the charming coastal town of Perast where a short boat ride takes you to the 15th century "Our Lady of the Rocks" Church perched on an islet in the bay. Once there, visit the Roman Catholic Church whose interior is decorated with 68 paintings by Tripo Kokolja, a famous 17th century painter from Perast. Proceed to the charming city of Kotor for a guided walking tour. View the Cathedral of St. Tryphon, Maritime Museum, numerous Palaces and Old Square and get to feel the atmosphere of this unique medieval town. Leisure time to walk the winding cobblestone lanes of the Old City before returning along the Dalmatian Coast to Dubrovnik
Pick-up details to be advised locally. Approximate tour duration is 10 hours.
Changes to the Schengen border rule may result in longer wait times at the border crossing between Croatia and Montenegro, thus creating a very long day.
| Day #4 | 01 Sep 2021 - 31 Dec 2023 | $65.00 |
Full Day Istrian Peninsula
Begin with an orientation tour of Pula, a strategic port since the times of the ancient Romans. Visit a Roman Amphitheater, the sixth largest of its kind to be preserved in the world today. Afterward, proceed to the beautiful resort town of Rovinj where you will enjoy free time exploring the old town and its narrow lanes before returning to Opatija.
Pick-up details to be advised locally. Approximate tour duration is 8 hours.
| Day #10 | 01 Sep 2021 - 31 Mar 2025 | $65.00 |
Full Day Montenegro
Drive towards the stunning Bay of Kotor, the longest and deepest fjord in southern Europe. On to the charming coastal town of Perast where a short boat ride takes you to the 15th century "Our Lady of the Rocks" Church perched on an islet in the bay. Once there, visit the Roman Catholic Church whose interior is decorated with 68 paintings by Tripo Kokolja, a famous 17th century painter from Perast. Proceed to the charming city of Kotor for a guided walking tour. View the Cathedral of St. Tryphon, Maritime Museum, numerous Palaces and Old Square and get to feel the atmosphere of this unique medieval town. Leisure time to walk the winding cobblestone lanes of the Old City before returning along the Dalmatian Coast to Dubrovnik
Pick-up details to be advised locally. Approximate tour duration is 10 hours.
Changes to the Schengen border rule may result in longer wait times at the border crossing between Croatia and Montenegro, thus creating a very long day.
| Day #4 | 01 Sep 2021 - 31 Dec 2023 | $65.00 |
Full Day Istrian Peninsula
Begin with an orientation tour of Pula, a strategic port since the times of the ancient Romans. Visit a Roman Amphitheater, the sixth largest of its kind to be preserved in the world today. Afterward, proceed to the beautiful resort town of Rovinj where you will enjoy free time exploring the old town and its narrow lanes before returning to Opatija.
Pick-up details to be advised locally. Approximate tour duration is 8 hours.
| Day #10 | 01 Sep 2021 - 31 Mar 2025 | $65.00 |
| 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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| 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 |
| Italy - Spring and Fall: 55-75°F; Summer: 70-85°F; Winter: 40-55°F. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. The months of October through March are considered rainy season in Venice, leading to high tides and occasionally waters reaching pedestrian areas. We suggest including a rain jacket and boots on your packing list. On cruises, informal dress is the general rule though on formal nights, a cocktail dress for women and a suit or coat and tie for men is required. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops). Italy Average Temperatures: https://www.gate1travel.com/weather/europe/default.aspx#italy-weather |
| Slovenia - Spring and Autumn: 40–65°F; Summer: 55–75°F; Winter: 20–35°F. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops). Slovenia Average Temperatures:https://www.gate1travel.com/weather/europe/default.aspx#slovenia-weather |
| Croatia - Spring and Autumn: 40–65°F; Summer: 65–85°F; Winter: 30–45°F. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops). Croatia Average Temperatures: https://www.gate1travel.com/weather/europe/default.aspx#croatia-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. |
| ITALY: Books Venice Is a Fish: A Sensual Guide by Tiziano Scarpa Secrets of Rome: Love and Death in the Eternal City or Secrets of the Vatican by Corrado Augias Under the Tuscan Sun: At Home in Italy or In Tuscany by Frances Mayes Caesar: Life of a Colossus by Adrian Keith Goldsworthy Italy for the Gourmet Traveler by Fred Plotkin Medici: Godfathers of the Renaissance by Paul Strathern A Day in the Life of Ancient Rome by Alberto Angela The Adventures of Pinocchio by Carlo Collodi Roma: The Novel of Ancient Rome by Steven Saylor ITALY: Films The Great Beauty (2013) I Am Love (2010) Under the Tuscan Sun (2003) The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999) Life is Beautiful (1997) A Room with a View (1985) La Dolce Vita (1960) Three Coins in the Fountain (1954) |
| Preparing for Your Trip |
| Seat Assignments |
| As a courtesy service, complimentary airline seat assignments are requested on your behalf and, when available, are displayed in order of Passenger #1, #2 and so on. Assignments reflect the best available seats at the time of booking. Some airlines and/or fare types do not allow for pre-seating and require this be done at airport check-in only; in which case the display shows “N/A”. Seats are subject to change by your airline(s) including, for example, when there is a schedule change or equipment change after your initial booking; this may cause seat assignments to be changed or even cancelled. Some airlines offer preferred seating for an additional fee; these seats may only be purchased directly from the airline. You will need your family name and the 6-digit airline “Record Locator” which is displayed with the flight details on your reservation. In the event that you change seat assignments directly with your airline, changes will not be reflected on your invoice or documents. At the time that Gate 1 travel documents are issued, the currently assigned seats will be listed based on the assignments stored in your airline reservation at that time. Should you have questions regarding your assignments, please write to us at www.gate1travel.com/contactus. |
| Luggage & Packing |
| Checked bags are typically limited to a total dimension of 62 inches by adding length + width + height (example: 26"+26"+10" = 62”), and a maximum weight of 50 lbs (23kg). Smart Bags with a USB charging port, GPS tracking device and other high-tech features are prohibited as checked or carry-on baggage unless the bag is made with removable batteries and the batteries are removed and stored separately. Many airlines charge for checked bags including flights which begin and end within the USA. The most inexpensive airfare options commonly known as Basic Economy airfares do not include any checked bags nor seat assignments before the day of departure. However, for some airlines, other airfare categories also do not include checked baggage. This will be clearly displayed in our airfare selection and on your invoice. Where available, we highly recommend selecting airfares which include at least 1 piece of checked baggage. Gate 1 Travel is not responsible for checked bag fees, excess luggage or weight charges levied by an airline. Checked baggage allowances displayed on reservation details and invoices reflect the applicable allowance at the time of booking but are subject to change by your airline(s). For your airline’s requirements and fees, visit www.gate1travel.com/baggagefees.aspx. For important baggage information, visit www.gate1travel.com/luggage.aspx. Avoid placing valuables in your checked luggage. Federal law forbids the carriage of hazardous materials aboard the aircraft in your luggage, your carry-on or on your person. A violation can result in five years’ imprisonment and penalties of $250,000 or more (49 U.S.C. 5124). Hazardous materials include explosives, compressed gases, flammable liquids and solids, oxidizers, poisons, corrosives and radioactive materials. Examples: Paints, lighter fluid, fireworks, tear gases, oxygen bottles, and radio-pharmaceuticals. There are special exceptions for small quantities (up to 70 ounces total) of medicinal and toilet articles carried in your luggage and certain smoking materials carried on your person. Check the Transportation and Safety Administration (TSA) website www.tsa.gov to find out the current list of acceptable items you may bring on a plane before packing. We recommend that you use brightly colored luggage tags, straps or other identifiers to help you locate you luggage upon arrival or to describe it in the event that it is lost. |
| Day of Departure |
| Flight Services |
| What to do if You Need Assistance |
Whether you purchased your airfare from Gate 1 Travel or from the airline directly, please bear in mind that Gate 1 Travel does not own nor operate the airline(s), nor the airport facilities where they operate. At times, flying can be a frustrating experience, especially when things do not go exactly as planned, and airline explanations can be confusing or even misleading. Should you face a problem, remain calm and seek assistance either from the airline directly or from Gate 1. Please be aware that in most cases, on the day of your flight(s), airlines pass responsibility for your reservation to their staff at the airport and it is not always possible for Gate 1 Travel to intervene on your behalf, either through our reservations system or directly with your airline. |
| Arrival & Departure |
| Arrival Procedures |
| Upon arrival, please complete immigration formalities if necessary and claim your luggage. If your program includes airport arrival transfers, check your voucher for specific instructions, as they vary with every destination. In most cases, you will be met after collecting your luggage or passing through Customs by the local representative who will be holding a Gate 1 Travel sign and/or a sign with your name on it. In some instances you will be instructed to walk a short distance to a transportation counter. The company's name and location will be printed on your voucher. If for any reason you do not connect with the Gate 1 transfer personnel, go to the Tourist Information Desk and ask them to page the Gate 1 Travel representative or phone the number on your voucher. If you are delayed due to lost luggage, phone the number on the voucher or have a companion exit the Customs Area to advise the transfer representative. |
| What To Do When Your Flight Is Delayed |
| Airlines do not share flight manifest information. Therefore, the only way we may learn of a delay or schedule change while you are traveling is from you, the traveler. The sooner you are able to contact one of our offices, the better we can respond. Please refer to the Emergency Assistance instructions on this same document. Gate 1 Travel is only able to guarantee pre-reserved arrival transfers for up to one hour from the scheduled time, no matter the cause. In case you are delayed for any reason, and are unable to follow the instructions on your voucher, please make independent transfer arrangements and retain your receipts. Unused tour services, including transfers and hotel nights are not refundable. Upon you return home you will need to contact your airline and/or insurance carrier to investigate the possibility of reimbursement for any unused tour services. |
| Departure Procedures |
| If your program includes departure transfers, instructions will be stated on your voucher or provided locally. |
| Transfers |
| Due to local traffic and other extenuating circumstances, we ask that you allow 30 minutes from your scheduled transfer time for our representative to arrive. This includes hotel, airport and cruise transfers. Such possible delays are taken into consideration in scheduling transfers and you should therefore have no concerns about arriving late for your tour, flight or cruise. For transfers from a hotel, let the hotel reception desk or concierge know that you are waiting for a transfer. In the case of a missed transfer, reimbursement for your out-of-pocket expenses will be considered provided you obtain a written statement from the hotel's front desk verifying the length of time you waited, and the time you left the hotel, and a receipt for your transportation with time and date. The cost of a transfer is more expensive than hiring a taxi, as a Gate 1 transfer necessarily includes round trip service, or 'dead-leg'. Often the places of call (airports, seaports, hotels) demand entrance and parking fees, where drivers may have to wait for up to an hour. Passengers comfortable hiring a taxi on their own and do not require assistance will save money. |
| Venice Transfers - Most transfers in Venice are provided by water taxi (occasionally transfers may be provided by car). Only those hotels with a canal mooring can be reached directly. For all others, the water taxi will drop off and pick up at the nearest mooring. It will then be necessary to walk to your hotel. In some cases the hotel may be several blocks away. Some mooring areas cannot be reached during high or low tide, heavy rain, or storms. In this event, the nearest available mooring will be used. Since few of the mooring areas have porters to assist with transporting luggage, it is strongly recommended that you travel with one piece of wheeled luggage that you are comfortable handling on your own. |
| Venice Airport Link Shared Water Taxi Transfers (Hotel to Airport) - The departure time & location of your transfer will be advised at least 24 hours prior to your departure. If you do not receive this information by that time, please call the Local Phone number provided on your voucher. Please be at the mooring location indicated at least 5 minutes prior to pick up time. Your pre-paid voucher is valid only for the Airport Link water taxi operated by BUCINTORO and only for the date indicated on your voucher and time communicated locally. Your pre-paid Gate 1 voucher is NOT valid for any other water taxi. Upon arrival at the airport, it will be necessary to walk approximately half a mile, with your luggage, from the dock to the terminal. |
| About Your Accommodations |
| Hotels |
| Gate 1 Travel has carefully selected each hotel based on overall quality, location, price, food, service, and cleanliness. All rooms are standard twin-bedded (two single beds) rooms with private facilities. Special requests such as bed types, smoking preference and connecting rooms are subject to availability. Room selection in all cases, unless otherwise reserved, is strictly at the discretion of the hotel's management on a run-of-house basis. Triple rooms consist of standard twin beds or one double bed plus a sofa/folding bed or cot for third person except in the U.S. and Canada, where triple rooms often consist of two double/queen beds for three persons; where available, a fee may be charged by the hotel for the addition of a cot/rollaway. The number of persons accommodated does not dictate the room size. Although available at most 4 and 5 star hotels, the use of air-conditioning abroad differs greatly from the United States, and is often shut down at night and from the end until the start of the summer months. Some lodges and accommodations in remote regions may not have all of the amenities, such as hairdryer, alarm clock and room service, that you might find in a larger hotel located in a city center. |
| Hotel Check-in/ Check-out |
| Hotel check-in time is generally not before 4:00 p.m. and check-out time is prior to noon. If you will be arriving early in the day or departing in the evening, hotels will usually allow you to store your luggage in their luggage room. Ask at the front desk if the hotel can check you in earlier, or let you stay later. |
| Venice City Tax - The authorities of Venice apply a city tax on all hotels. The tax requires a contribution of Euro 3.50 per person per night for a 3 star hotel, Euro 4.50 per person per night for 4 star hotels and Euro 5 per person per night for a 5 star hotel. It will be charged and collected by your hotel and is payable in cash only. We regret that we are currently unable to collect this tax in advance or include it in your price for customers who are traveling independently or who arrange independent pre- or post-tour stays on an escorted tour. This tax is included in the tour price for customers who are traveling on an escorted tour accompanied by a Tour Manager who is able to pay directly to the hotel on your behalf. Please note that our hotel ratings may differ from official star ratings which determine the tax level. |
| At Your Destination |
| Eco & Sustainable Tourism |
| We support global efforts to create a more eco-friendly world, intolerant of any forms of cruelty, abuse and intentional environmental destruction. To that end we ask that our clients maintain a watchful eye as they travel, and report any abuses they may encounter. One of the many benefits of tourism is the shared cultural knowledge and ultimate elimination of negative behavior through education. We rely on your good feedback to enable this element of symbiosis. As you travel and learn about foreign cultures, we ask first and foremost that you practice tolerance and respect for local customs. |
| Gratuities |
| Tipping is always a matter of personal discretion. For your convenience, please use the summary below as a guideline for recommended gratuity amounts. Gratuities may be paid in local currency or US dollar equivalent where accepted. Please be aware that tipping is considered by many locals to be a part of their normal remuneration and some may approach you for additional "compensation." There is no need to be intimidated by the request, nor should you feel pressured to pay more than recommended. If you become uncomfortable by any behavior you encounter, please advise your tour manager or phone our local office. Numbers are provided in your documents for your convenience. |
| Suggested Tipping: Escorted Tours |
Tour Manager (Coordinator; may or may not act as a guide): US $12 per person per day Driver (Provides chauffeur services and limited assistance with luggage) : US $7 per person per day, US $4 per half day Local Guide (Offers in-depth information at specific locations. There may be one or many guides along a tour program): US $7 per person per day of sightseeing, US $4 per half day Hotel porters and wait staff: Included |
| Italy - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. Restaurant bills often include a service charge. 5-10% is customary for good service. |
| Slovenia - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. Restaurant bills often include a service charge. |
| Croatia - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. Restaurant bills often include a service charge. |
| 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. |
| Optional Full Day Montenegro Tour from Dubrovnik |
| Please note that changes to the Schengen border rule may result in longer wait times at the border crossing between Croatia and Montenegro, thus creating a very long day. |
| 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 |
| Italy - The Euro is the currency of Italy. Italian bank opening hours are typically Monday through Friday, 9am to 1pm depending on the bank. Most Italian banks do not offer exchange service. For this reason, it is strongly recommended to acquire a small amount of Euros prior to arriving. ATM machines are a better option. |
| Slovenia - The Euro is the currency of Slovenia. |
| Croatia - The Euro is the currency of Croatia. |
| Shopping |
| Most people enjoy bringing home at least one souvenir from the countries they visit. However, some find any amount of shopping to be too much while others never find enough opportunities. We have built into our Escorted itineraries a few shopping stops at recommended spots. These stops are designed to enhance your experience by providing an opportunity to see first-hand quality locally crafted merchandise which you may not be able to find on your own. Shops are checked to ensure the quality and authenticity of the products they offer, and we limit guides from visiting other locations. In some cases, we plan these stops to provide an opportunity to use clean bathrooms and to stretch your legs. All shops want your satisfaction, and therefore in case of any misunderstanding they ask that you kindly submit your claim to us within one week of the item's receipt. Claims submitted later will be subject to each store’s policies. While shopping independently, we advise you to exercise care and common sense when making any purchase. Always get a formal receipt. And remember that, just like in this country, if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is! About Tax-Free Shopping Tax-Free Shopping allows shoppers to reclaim the VAT (Value-Added Tax) or GST (Goods and Services Tax) they have paid on their purchases in some foreign countries in accordance with restrictions and procedures as dictated by each country. Refund eligibility varies by country, but may require presenting a scanned copy of your passport at the time of purchase, a minimum amount spent, or providing original store receipts. For more details, check the respective country’s online website, with the shop salesperson, with your tour manager or at www.globalblue.com for specific country regulations and airport operation hours. Please keep in mind that you must apply for VAT refund in the airport of the country the items were purchased and allow enough time prior to your flight for the application. U.S. Customs & Shipping Charges You may carry items with a fair retail value totaling $800 into the U.S. Taxes may be applied to the next $1,000 worth of merchandise. U.S. Customs determines the value of your items, often honoring a genuine sales receipt. Items which are shipped home are always subject to duty when received in the U.S. (in addition to shipping charges). Some shops may offer to include shipping and duties in the price but this typically means shipping only to the customs facility closest to you and payment only of the export duties; you would still need to collect the item and pay U.S. import duties. Please be aware that it is illegal to import products made from endangered animal species. U.S. Customs & Border Protection will seize these items, as well as most furs, coral, tortoise shell, reptile skins, feathers, plants, and items made from animal skins. |
| Italy - Shops are generally open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 3:00 to 8:00 p.m., with some variations in Northern Italy, where the lunch break is shorter and shops close earlier. In the major cities, large stores and souvenir shops remain open throughout the day. Italy is renowned for its fashion industry, with fine clothes for men and women, lacework, jewelry, and leather accessories. Other quality goods include ceramics, gold and silver items, alabaster, woodwork, embroidery, glass and crystal ware. Major credit cards are usually accepted, though cash is preferred for small purchases. |
| Slovenia - Local specialties include bobbin lace, crystal, glassware, and wine. Business hours are Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. - 8 p.m., and Saturday 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. A value-added tax is now added to the purchase price of most goods. |
| Croatia - For the best prices, seek out local markets offering a wide assortment of traditional handicrafts such as embroidery, ceramics, and woodcarvings. In stores, lavender sachets, fine Adriatic red coral, and crystal ware are popular items. Shops are generally open all day from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., with shorter hours on Saturdays. |
| 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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| Caution: Tours of the Forum & Colosseum, Rome - Please note that there have been reports of street vendors wearing Gate 1 Travel identification tags who offer tours of the Colosseum in Rome. These vendors are not employed by Gate 1 and are in no way affiliated with the company. Gate 1 tours are offered only for purchase in advance of your trip to Italy, or locally by your Tour Manager. Passengers traveling independently are recommended to purchase their tours through official vendors and to avoid street sales. |
| Security at Major Sites - Please expect longer wait times at major sightseeing locations due to heightened security restrictions. These locations include, but are not limited to, the San Marco Basilica in Venice, the Accademia in Florence, and the Colosseum & Vatican in Rome. Bags of any kind are no longer allowed inside the San Marco Basilica and large bags/backpacks are restricted from the Colosseum. We suggest you to carry only necessary items (i.e. wallet, cell phone, camera) safely on your body and leave all other valuables in the hotel room safe when visiting these sites. |
| Local Emergency Phone Numbers |
Italy
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Slovenia
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Croatia
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| Languages |
| Italy - Italian is the local language. English is generally spoken in tourist areas. |
| Slovenia - Slovene is the local language. Croatian, Serbian, German, English, and Italian are also spoken by some. |
| Croatia - Croatian is the local language. Italian and limited English are generally spoken in tourist areas. |
| Electricity |
| Please note: The U.S. uses 120 volts and you can purchase a converter and transformer at most hardware stores for your 120V appliances. |
| Italy - The voltage used is 220 volts. |
| Slovenia - The voltage used is 220 volts. |
| Croatia - The voltage used is 220 volts. |
| Code of Conduct |
| Italy - Family and social ties are, broadly speaking, stronger in Italy than in other Western European countries, and the Roman Catholic church retains a strong cultural influence. Common courtesies should be practiced. Casual dress is appropriate, but beachwear should be confined to the beach and poolside. Conservative clothing should be worn when visiting religious buildings, meaning legs and shoulders should be covered. While the cities are very safe, pickpocketing can occur. Avoid conspicuous expensive jewelry and be mindful of your wallet or handbag. Even though many Italians smoke, smoking is prohibited in all public buildings, public transport, cinemas and restaurants. |
| Slovenia - Dress should be casual, but conservative, except at formal dinners and upscale hotels or restaurants. At restaurants, bread will often be brought and charged even if not requested. This is customary and should not be disputed. Slovenes are known for their friendliness and hospitality to foreigners and even new acquaintances may offer a drink. |
| Croatia - Shaking hands is a standard form of greeting and saying goodbye. Casual dress is appropriate and normal courtesies should be observed. Smoking is prohibited on public transportation and in theaters and public offices. |
| Meals & Dietary Requests |
| Included meals are based on the restaurant's buffet or set menu. Beverages are not included, unless specifically stated. Although special diets like Vegetarian and Vegan are relatively commonplace in the USA, much of the world's menu options are more provincial. Please do not expect to find the variety of food selection outside of the local norm. Every effort will be made to honor special dietary requests selected no later than 5 days prior to departure in the passenger details section of your reservation. In addition, we recommend that you make preferences known to your tour manager upon arrival, and at each hotel/restaurant. |
| Holidays |
| On public holidays, there may be reduced public transportation, as well as limited hours or closures of attractions, shops and restaurants. |
| Holidays - Italy |
Holidays 2023 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 6: Epiphany Apr 9: Easter Sunday Apr 10: Easter Monday Apr 25: Liberation Day May 1: Labor Day Jun 2: Republic Day Aug 15: Assumption of the Virgin Nov 1: All Saints Day Dec 8: Immaculate Conception Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Please note that in addition, local feast days are held in honor of town patron saints, generally without closure of shops and offices. These include: Parma: Jan 13-14 (St. Hilary of Poitiers), Aug 16-17 (St. Roch) & May 5 (St. Honoratus) Catania: Feb 3-5; Aug 17 (St. Agatha) Sorrento: Feb 14 (St. Antoninus) Agrigento: Feb 25 (St. Gerland) & Jun 18 (St. Calogerus) Como: Apr 2; Aug 31 (St. Abbondio) Ragusa: Apr 23 (St. George) Venice: Apr 25 (St. Mark) & Nov 11 (St. Martin's Day) Treviso: Apr 27 (St. Liberalis) & Mar 27; Aug 1; Aug 22 (St. Augusta) Baveno: Jun 19 (Sts. Gervasius & Protasius) Matera: Jun 20 (St. John) & Jul 2 (St. Madonna della Bruna) Florence, Genoa & Turin: Jun 24 (St John the Baptist) Amalfi: Jun 27; Nov 30 (St. Andrew) Rome: Jun 29 (St. Peter & Paul) Siena: Jul 2 & Aug 16, Palio horserace Taormina: Jul 8-9 (St. Pancras) Palermo: Jul 15 (St. Rosalia) Santa Margherita Ligure: July 20 (St. Margaret of Antiochia) Lecce: Aug 26 (St. Orontius) Naples: Sep 19 (St. Gennaro) Bologna: Oct 4 (St. Petronius) Trieste: Nov 3 (St. Giusto) Montecatini: Dec 4 (St. Barbara) Bari: Dec 6, May 7-9 (St. Nicholas) Milan & Stresa: Dec 7 (St. Ambrose) Siracusa: Dec 13 (St. Lucy) Holidays 2024 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 6: Epiphany Mar 31: Easter Sunday Apr 1: Easter Monday Apr 25: Liberation Day May 1: Labor Day Jun 2: Republic Day Aug 15: Assumption of the Virgin Mary / Ferragosto Nov 1: All Saints Day Dec 8: Immaculate Conception Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Please note that in addition, local feast days are held in honor of town patron saints, generally without closure of shops and offices. These include: Parma: Jan 13-14 (St. Hilary of Poitiers), Aug 16-17 (St. Roch) Catania: Feb 3-5 & Aug 17 (St. Agatha) Sorrento: Feb 14 (St. Antoninus) Agrigento: Feb 25 (St. Gerland) & July 7-July 14 (St. Calogerus) Como: Aug 31 (St. Abbondio) Ragusa: May 26 (St. George) Venice: Apr 25 (St. Mark) & Nov 11 (St. Martin's Day) Treviso: Apr 27 (St. Liberalis); Mar 27, Aug 1 & Aug 22 (St. Augusta) Baveno: Jun 19 (Sts. Gervasius & Protasius) Matera: Jun 20 (St. John) & Jul 2 (St. Madonna della Bruna) Florence, Genoa & Turin: Jun 24 (St John the Baptist) Amalfi: Jun 27; Nov 30 (Sant' Andrea) Rome: Jun 29 (St. Peter & Paul) Siena: Jul 2 & Aug 16, Palio horserace Taormina: Jul 8-9 (St. Pancras) Palermo: Jul 14-15 (St. Rosalia) Santa Margherita Ligure: July 20 (St. Margaret of Antiochia) Lecce: Aug 26 (St. Orontius) Naples: Sep 19 (St. Gennaro) Bologna: Oct 4 (St. Petronius) Trieste: Nov 3 (St. Giusto) Montecatini: Dec 4 (St. Barbara) Bari: Dec 6 & May 7-9 (St. Nicholas) Milan & Stresa: Dec 7 (St. Ambrose) Siracusa: Dec 13 (St. Lucy) |
| Holidays - Slovenia |
Holidays 2023 Jan 1-2: New Year's Day, observed Feb 8: Prešeren Day Apr 9: Easter Sunday Apr 10: Easter Monday Apr 27: Day of Uprising Against Occupation May 1-2: Labor Day/May Day, observed May 28: Whit Sunday Aug 15: Assumption of Mary Oct 31: Reformation Day Nov 1: Remembrance Day Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: Independence and Unity Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve Holidays 2024 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 2: New Year Holiday Feb 8: Prešeren Day Mar 31: Easter Sunday Apr 1: Easter Monday Apr 27: Day of Uprising Against Occupation May 1: Labor Day/May Day May 2: Labor Day Holiday May 19: Whit Sunday Aug 15: Assumption of Mary Oct 31: Reformation Day Nov 1: Remembrance Day Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: Independence and Unity Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve |
| Holidays - Croatia |
Holidays 2023 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 6: Feast of the Epiphany Apr 9: Easter Apr 10: Easter Monday May 1: Labor Day/May Day May 30: Statehood Day Jun 8: Corpus Christi Jun 22: Day of Anti-Fascist Struggle Aug 5: Victory Day Aug 15: Feast of the Assumption Oct 8: Independence Day Nov 1: All Saints' Day Nov 18: Remembrance Day Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Holidays 2024 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 6: Feast of the Epiphany Mar 31: Easter Apr 1: Easter Monday May 1: Labor Day/May Day May 30: Statehood Day May 30: Corpus Christi Jun 22: Day of Anti-Fascist Struggle Aug 5: Victory Day Aug 15: Feast of the Assumption Nov 1: All Saints' Day Nov 18: Remembrance Day Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day |
| Papal Audiences, Vatican City - Italy |
| General audiences with His Holiness the Pope are usually held once a week (Wednesdays at 11 a.m.) in Vatican City. They may be held inside the Basilica itself or in the hall of the Papal Audiences (Aula Paolo VI, Seating 7000), and in summer in Saint Peter's Square or in the papal summer residence at Castel Gandolfo. Please note that Castel Gandolfo is located approximately 20 miles south-east of Rome, not in Vatican City. Catholics are requested to have a letter of introduction from their parish priest. For this audience women should dress modestly, with arms and head covered. Dress should be dark or subdued in color. Men are requested to wear a tie and jacket. |
| New Venice Visitor Tax Regulation - It was recently announced that the city of Venice will be implementing an entrance tax of 10 Euros per person for tourists visiting the city for the day. In most cases, the tax will be included in the cost of the transportation to access the city center, including cruise, taxi, or public transportation. However, there may be instances where visitors will need to pay the tax upon arrival. We regret that we are currently unable to collect this tax in advance. Due to the uncertainty of this new regulation the information above is subject to change. |
| Know Before You Go | |
| Although most of the planning and preparation is taken care of for you, there are still a few things you should know and some details you should take care of to ensure your comfort, safety and peace of mind. Please review the following information before your departure to ensure that any surprises along the way will only be pleasant ones. |
| Getting Ready to Go |
| Passports and Visas |
| It is each traveler's responsibility to have a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the dates of travel and a visa if required. Please check the information at www.gate1travel.com/visas.aspx for the specific country/region you are visiting for more details. IMPORTANT: Passengers who are not U.S. citizens must check with the respective consulate or a visa agency to determine what personal identification is required. Passengers who enter, leave and then re-enter the same country on their itinerary should check if they require a double-entry visa. Passport applications are available at most U.S. Post Offices, as well as at regional Passport Agencies. Passengers requiring visas, whether obtained in advance or locally upon arrival, should ensure that their passport has blank pages.
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| 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 |
| Italy - Spring and Fall: 55-75°F; Summer: 70-85°F; Winter: 40-55°F. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. The months of October through March are considered rainy season in Venice, leading to high tides and occasionally waters reaching pedestrian areas. We suggest including a rain jacket and boots on your packing list. On cruises, informal dress is the general rule though on formal nights, a cocktail dress for women and a suit or coat and tie for men is required. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops). Italy Average Temperatures: https://www.gate1travel.com/weather/europe/default.aspx#italy-weather |
| Slovenia - Spring and Autumn: 40–65°F; Summer: 55–75°F; Winter: 20–35°F. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops). Slovenia Average Temperatures:https://www.gate1travel.com/weather/europe/default.aspx#slovenia-weather |
| Croatia - Spring and Autumn: 40–65°F; Summer: 65–85°F; Winter: 30–45°F. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops). Croatia Average Temperatures: https://www.gate1travel.com/weather/europe/default.aspx#croatia-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. |
| ITALY: Books Venice Is a Fish: A Sensual Guide by Tiziano Scarpa Secrets of Rome: Love and Death in the Eternal City or Secrets of the Vatican by Corrado Augias Under the Tuscan Sun: At Home in Italy or In Tuscany by Frances Mayes Caesar: Life of a Colossus by Adrian Keith Goldsworthy Italy for the Gourmet Traveler by Fred Plotkin Medici: Godfathers of the Renaissance by Paul Strathern A Day in the Life of Ancient Rome by Alberto Angela The Adventures of Pinocchio by Carlo Collodi Roma: The Novel of Ancient Rome by Steven Saylor ITALY: Films The Great Beauty (2013) I Am Love (2010) Under the Tuscan Sun (2003) The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999) Life is Beautiful (1997) A Room with a View (1985) La Dolce Vita (1960) Three Coins in the Fountain (1954) |
| Preparing for Your Trip |
| Seat Assignments |
| As a courtesy service, complimentary airline seat assignments are requested on your behalf and, when available, are displayed in order of Passenger #1, #2 and so on. Assignments reflect the best available seats at the time of booking. Some airlines and/or fare types do not allow for pre-seating and require this be done at airport check-in only; in which case the display shows “N/A”. Seats are subject to change by your airline(s) including, for example, when there is a schedule change or equipment change after your initial booking; this may cause seat assignments to be changed or even cancelled. Some airlines offer preferred seating for an additional fee; these seats may only be purchased directly from the airline. You will need your family name and the 6-digit airline “Record Locator” which is displayed with the flight details on your reservation. In the event that you change seat assignments directly with your airline, changes will not be reflected on your invoice or documents. At the time that Gate 1 travel documents are issued, the currently assigned seats will be listed based on the assignments stored in your airline reservation at that time. Should you have questions regarding your assignments, please write to us at www.gate1travel.com/contactus. |
| Luggage & Packing |
| Checked bags are typically limited to a total dimension of 62 inches by adding length + width + height (example: 26"+26"+10" = 62”), and a maximum weight of 50 lbs (23kg). Smart Bags with a USB charging port, GPS tracking device and other high-tech features are prohibited as checked or carry-on baggage unless the bag is made with removable batteries and the batteries are removed and stored separately. Many airlines charge for checked bags including flights which begin and end within the USA. The most inexpensive airfare options commonly known as Basic Economy airfares do not include any checked bags nor seat assignments before the day of departure. However, for some airlines, other airfare categories also do not include checked baggage. This will be clearly displayed in our airfare selection and on your invoice. Where available, we highly recommend selecting airfares which include at least 1 piece of checked baggage. Gate 1 Travel is not responsible for checked bag fees, excess luggage or weight charges levied by an airline. Checked baggage allowances displayed on reservation details and invoices reflect the applicable allowance at the time of booking but are subject to change by your airline(s). For your airline’s requirements and fees, visit www.gate1travel.com/baggagefees.aspx. For important baggage information, visit www.gate1travel.com/luggage.aspx. Avoid placing valuables in your checked luggage. Federal law forbids the carriage of hazardous materials aboard the aircraft in your luggage, your carry-on or on your person. A violation can result in five years’ imprisonment and penalties of $250,000 or more (49 U.S.C. 5124). Hazardous materials include explosives, compressed gases, flammable liquids and solids, oxidizers, poisons, corrosives and radioactive materials. Examples: Paints, lighter fluid, fireworks, tear gases, oxygen bottles, and radio-pharmaceuticals. There are special exceptions for small quantities (up to 70 ounces total) of medicinal and toilet articles carried in your luggage and certain smoking materials carried on your person. Check the Transportation and Safety Administration (TSA) website www.tsa.gov to find out the current list of acceptable items you may bring on a plane before packing. We recommend that you use brightly colored luggage tags, straps or other identifiers to help you locate you luggage upon arrival or to describe it in the event that it is lost. |
| Day of Departure |
| Flight Services |
| What to do if You Need Assistance |
Whether you purchased your airfare from Gate 1 Travel or from the airline directly, please bear in mind that Gate 1 Travel does not own nor operate the airline(s), nor the airport facilities where they operate. At times, flying can be a frustrating experience, especially when things do not go exactly as planned, and airline explanations can be confusing or even misleading. Should you face a problem, remain calm and seek assistance either from the airline directly or from Gate 1. Please be aware that in most cases, on the day of your flight(s), airlines pass responsibility for your reservation to their staff at the airport and it is not always possible for Gate 1 Travel to intervene on your behalf, either through our reservations system or directly with your airline. |
| Arrival & Departure |
| Arrival Procedures |
| Upon arrival, please complete immigration formalities if necessary and claim your luggage. If your program includes airport arrival transfers, check your voucher for specific instructions, as they vary with every destination. In most cases, you will be met after collecting your luggage or passing through Customs by the local representative who will be holding a Gate 1 Travel sign and/or a sign with your name on it. In some instances you will be instructed to walk a short distance to a transportation counter. The company's name and location will be printed on your voucher. If for any reason you do not connect with the Gate 1 transfer personnel, go to the Tourist Information Desk and ask them to page the Gate 1 Travel representative or phone the number on your voucher. If you are delayed due to lost luggage, phone the number on the voucher or have a companion exit the Customs Area to advise the transfer representative. |
| What To Do When Your Flight Is Delayed |
| Airlines do not share flight manifest information. Therefore, the only way we may learn of a delay or schedule change while you are traveling is from you, the traveler. The sooner you are able to contact one of our offices, the better we can respond. Please refer to the Emergency Assistance instructions on this same document. Gate 1 Travel is only able to guarantee pre-reserved arrival transfers for up to one hour from the scheduled time, no matter the cause. In case you are delayed for any reason, and are unable to follow the instructions on your voucher, please make independent transfer arrangements and retain your receipts. Unused tour services, including transfers and hotel nights are not refundable. Upon you return home you will need to contact your airline and/or insurance carrier to investigate the possibility of reimbursement for any unused tour services. |
| Departure Procedures |
| If your program includes departure transfers, instructions will be stated on your voucher or provided locally. |
| Transfers |
| Due to local traffic and other extenuating circumstances, we ask that you allow 30 minutes from your scheduled transfer time for our representative to arrive. This includes hotel, airport and cruise transfers. Such possible delays are taken into consideration in scheduling transfers and you should therefore have no concerns about arriving late for your tour, flight or cruise. For transfers from a hotel, let the hotel reception desk or concierge know that you are waiting for a transfer. In the case of a missed transfer, reimbursement for your out-of-pocket expenses will be considered provided you obtain a written statement from the hotel's front desk verifying the length of time you waited, and the time you left the hotel, and a receipt for your transportation with time and date. The cost of a transfer is more expensive than hiring a taxi, as a Gate 1 transfer necessarily includes round trip service, or 'dead-leg'. Often the places of call (airports, seaports, hotels) demand entrance and parking fees, where drivers may have to wait for up to an hour. Passengers comfortable hiring a taxi on their own and do not require assistance will save money. |
| Venice Transfers - Most transfers in Venice are provided by water taxi (occasionally transfers may be provided by car). Only those hotels with a canal mooring can be reached directly. For all others, the water taxi will drop off and pick up at the nearest mooring. It will then be necessary to walk to your hotel. In some cases the hotel may be several blocks away. Some mooring areas cannot be reached during high or low tide, heavy rain, or storms. In this event, the nearest available mooring will be used. Since few of the mooring areas have porters to assist with transporting luggage, it is strongly recommended that you travel with one piece of wheeled luggage that you are comfortable handling on your own. |
| Venice Airport Link Shared Water Taxi Transfers (Hotel to Airport) - The departure time & location of your transfer will be advised at least 24 hours prior to your departure. If you do not receive this information by that time, please call the Local Phone number provided on your voucher. Please be at the mooring location indicated at least 5 minutes prior to pick up time. Your pre-paid voucher is valid only for the Airport Link water taxi operated by BUCINTORO and only for the date indicated on your voucher and time communicated locally. Your pre-paid Gate 1 voucher is NOT valid for any other water taxi. Upon arrival at the airport, it will be necessary to walk approximately half a mile, with your luggage, from the dock to the terminal. |
| About Your Accommodations |
| Hotels |
| Gate 1 Travel has carefully selected each hotel based on overall quality, location, price, food, service, and cleanliness. All rooms are standard twin-bedded (two single beds) rooms with private facilities. Special requests such as bed types, smoking preference and connecting rooms are subject to availability. Room selection in all cases, unless otherwise reserved, is strictly at the discretion of the hotel's management on a run-of-house basis. Triple rooms consist of standard twin beds or one double bed plus a sofa/folding bed or cot for third person except in the U.S. and Canada, where triple rooms often consist of two double/queen beds for three persons; where available, a fee may be charged by the hotel for the addition of a cot/rollaway. The number of persons accommodated does not dictate the room size. Although available at most 4 and 5 star hotels, the use of air-conditioning abroad differs greatly from the United States, and is often shut down at night and from the end until the start of the summer months. Some lodges and accommodations in remote regions may not have all of the amenities, such as hairdryer, alarm clock and room service, that you might find in a larger hotel located in a city center. |
| Hotel Check-in/ Check-out |
| Hotel check-in time is generally not before 4:00 p.m. and check-out time is prior to noon. If you will be arriving early in the day or departing in the evening, hotels will usually allow you to store your luggage in their luggage room. Ask at the front desk if the hotel can check you in earlier, or let you stay later. |
| Venice City Tax - The authorities of Venice apply a city tax on all hotels. The tax requires a contribution of Euro 3.50 per person per night for a 3 star hotel, Euro 4.50 per person per night for 4 star hotels and Euro 5 per person per night for a 5 star hotel. It will be charged and collected by your hotel and is payable in cash only. We regret that we are currently unable to collect this tax in advance or include it in your price for customers who are traveling independently or who arrange independent pre- or post-tour stays on an escorted tour. This tax is included in the tour price for customers who are traveling on an escorted tour accompanied by a Tour Manager who is able to pay directly to the hotel on your behalf. Please note that our hotel ratings may differ from official star ratings which determine the tax level. |
| At Your Destination |
| Eco & Sustainable Tourism |
| We support global efforts to create a more eco-friendly world, intolerant of any forms of cruelty, abuse and intentional environmental destruction. To that end we ask that our clients maintain a watchful eye as they travel, and report any abuses they may encounter. One of the many benefits of tourism is the shared cultural knowledge and ultimate elimination of negative behavior through education. We rely on your good feedback to enable this element of symbiosis. As you travel and learn about foreign cultures, we ask first and foremost that you practice tolerance and respect for local customs. |
| Gratuities |
| Tipping is always a matter of personal discretion. For your convenience, please use the summary below as a guideline for recommended gratuity amounts. Gratuities may be paid in local currency or US dollar equivalent where accepted. Please be aware that tipping is considered by many locals to be a part of their normal remuneration and some may approach you for additional "compensation." There is no need to be intimidated by the request, nor should you feel pressured to pay more than recommended. If you become uncomfortable by any behavior you encounter, please advise your tour manager or phone our local office. Numbers are provided in your documents for your convenience. |
| Suggested Tipping: Escorted Tours |
Tour Manager (Coordinator; may or may not act as a guide): US $12 per person per day Driver (Provides chauffeur services and limited assistance with luggage) : US $7 per person per day, US $4 per half day Local Guide (Offers in-depth information at specific locations. There may be one or many guides along a tour program): US $7 per person per day of sightseeing, US $4 per half day Hotel porters and wait staff: Included |
| Italy - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. Restaurant bills often include a service charge. 5-10% is customary for good service. |
| Slovenia - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. Restaurant bills often include a service charge. |
| Croatia - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. Restaurant bills often include a service charge. |
| 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. |
| Optional Full Day Montenegro Tour from Dubrovnik |
| Please note that changes to the Schengen border rule may result in longer wait times at the border crossing between Croatia and Montenegro, thus creating a very long day. |
| 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 |
| Italy - The Euro is the currency of Italy. Italian bank opening hours are typically Monday through Friday, 9am to 1pm depending on the bank. Most Italian banks do not offer exchange service. For this reason, it is strongly recommended to acquire a small amount of Euros prior to arriving. ATM machines are a better option. |
| Slovenia - The Euro is the currency of Slovenia. |
| Croatia - The Euro is the currency of Croatia. |
| Shopping |
| Most people enjoy bringing home at least one souvenir from the countries they visit. However, some find any amount of shopping to be too much while others never find enough opportunities. We have built into our Escorted itineraries a few shopping stops at recommended spots. These stops are designed to enhance your experience by providing an opportunity to see first-hand quality locally crafted merchandise which you may not be able to find on your own. Shops are checked to ensure the quality and authenticity of the products they offer, and we limit guides from visiting other locations. In some cases, we plan these stops to provide an opportunity to use clean bathrooms and to stretch your legs. All shops want your satisfaction, and therefore in case of any misunderstanding they ask that you kindly submit your claim to us within one week of the item's receipt. Claims submitted later will be subject to each store’s policies. While shopping independently, we advise you to exercise care and common sense when making any purchase. Always get a formal receipt. And remember that, just like in this country, if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is! About Tax-Free Shopping Tax-Free Shopping allows shoppers to reclaim the VAT (Value-Added Tax) or GST (Goods and Services Tax) they have paid on their purchases in some foreign countries in accordance with restrictions and procedures as dictated by each country. Refund eligibility varies by country, but may require presenting a scanned copy of your passport at the time of purchase, a minimum amount spent, or providing original store receipts. For more details, check the respective country’s online website, with the shop salesperson, with your tour manager or at www.globalblue.com for specific country regulations and airport operation hours. Please keep in mind that you must apply for VAT refund in the airport of the country the items were purchased and allow enough time prior to your flight for the application. U.S. Customs & Shipping Charges You may carry items with a fair retail value totaling $800 into the U.S. Taxes may be applied to the next $1,000 worth of merchandise. U.S. Customs determines the value of your items, often honoring a genuine sales receipt. Items which are shipped home are always subject to duty when received in the U.S. (in addition to shipping charges). Some shops may offer to include shipping and duties in the price but this typically means shipping only to the customs facility closest to you and payment only of the export duties; you would still need to collect the item and pay U.S. import duties. Please be aware that it is illegal to import products made from endangered animal species. U.S. Customs & Border Protection will seize these items, as well as most furs, coral, tortoise shell, reptile skins, feathers, plants, and items made from animal skins. |
| Italy - Shops are generally open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 3:00 to 8:00 p.m., with some variations in Northern Italy, where the lunch break is shorter and shops close earlier. In the major cities, large stores and souvenir shops remain open throughout the day. Italy is renowned for its fashion industry, with fine clothes for men and women, lacework, jewelry, and leather accessories. Other quality goods include ceramics, gold and silver items, alabaster, woodwork, embroidery, glass and crystal ware. Major credit cards are usually accepted, though cash is preferred for small purchases. |
| Slovenia - Local specialties include bobbin lace, crystal, glassware, and wine. Business hours are Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. - 8 p.m., and Saturday 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. A value-added tax is now added to the purchase price of most goods. |
| Croatia - For the best prices, seek out local markets offering a wide assortment of traditional handicrafts such as embroidery, ceramics, and woodcarvings. In stores, lavender sachets, fine Adriatic red coral, and crystal ware are popular items. Shops are generally open all day from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., with shorter hours on Saturdays. |
| 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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| Caution: Tours of the Forum & Colosseum, Rome - Please note that there have been reports of street vendors wearing Gate 1 Travel identification tags who offer tours of the Colosseum in Rome. These vendors are not employed by Gate 1 and are in no way affiliated with the company. Gate 1 tours are offered only for purchase in advance of your trip to Italy, or locally by your Tour Manager. Passengers traveling independently are recommended to purchase their tours through official vendors and to avoid street sales. |
| Security at Major Sites - Please expect longer wait times at major sightseeing locations due to heightened security restrictions. These locations include, but are not limited to, the San Marco Basilica in Venice, the Accademia in Florence, and the Colosseum & Vatican in Rome. Bags of any kind are no longer allowed inside the San Marco Basilica and large bags/backpacks are restricted from the Colosseum. We suggest you to carry only necessary items (i.e. wallet, cell phone, camera) safely on your body and leave all other valuables in the hotel room safe when visiting these sites. |
| Local Emergency Phone Numbers |
Italy
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Slovenia
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Croatia
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| Languages |
| Italy - Italian is the local language. English is generally spoken in tourist areas. |
| Slovenia - Slovene is the local language. Croatian, Serbian, German, English, and Italian are also spoken by some. |
| Croatia - Croatian is the local language. Italian and limited English are generally spoken in tourist areas. |
| Electricity |
| Please note: The U.S. uses 120 volts and you can purchase a converter and transformer at most hardware stores for your 120V appliances. |
| Italy - The voltage used is 220 volts. |
| Slovenia - The voltage used is 220 volts. |
| Croatia - The voltage used is 220 volts. |
| Code of Conduct |
| Italy - Family and social ties are, broadly speaking, stronger in Italy than in other Western European countries, and the Roman Catholic church retains a strong cultural influence. Common courtesies should be practiced. Casual dress is appropriate, but beachwear should be confined to the beach and poolside. Conservative clothing should be worn when visiting religious buildings, meaning legs and shoulders should be covered. While the cities are very safe, pickpocketing can occur. Avoid conspicuous expensive jewelry and be mindful of your wallet or handbag. Even though many Italians smoke, smoking is prohibited in all public buildings, public transport, cinemas and restaurants. |
| Slovenia - Dress should be casual, but conservative, except at formal dinners and upscale hotels or restaurants. At restaurants, bread will often be brought and charged even if not requested. This is customary and should not be disputed. Slovenes are known for their friendliness and hospitality to foreigners and even new acquaintances may offer a drink. |
| Croatia - Shaking hands is a standard form of greeting and saying goodbye. Casual dress is appropriate and normal courtesies should be observed. Smoking is prohibited on public transportation and in theaters and public offices. |
| Meals & Dietary Requests |
| Included meals are based on the restaurant's buffet or set menu. Beverages are not included, unless specifically stated. Although special diets like Vegetarian and Vegan are relatively commonplace in the USA, much of the world's menu options are more provincial. Please do not expect to find the variety of food selection outside of the local norm. Every effort will be made to honor special dietary requests selected no later than 5 days prior to departure in the passenger details section of your reservation. In addition, we recommend that you make preferences known to your tour manager upon arrival, and at each hotel/restaurant. |
| Holidays |
| On public holidays, there may be reduced public transportation, as well as limited hours or closures of attractions, shops and restaurants. |
| Holidays - Italy |
Holidays 2023 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 6: Epiphany Apr 9: Easter Sunday Apr 10: Easter Monday Apr 25: Liberation Day May 1: Labor Day Jun 2: Republic Day Aug 15: Assumption of the Virgin Nov 1: All Saints Day Dec 8: Immaculate Conception Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Please note that in addition, local feast days are held in honor of town patron saints, generally without closure of shops and offices. These include: Parma: Jan 13-14 (St. Hilary of Poitiers), Aug 16-17 (St. Roch) & May 5 (St. Honoratus) Catania: Feb 3-5; Aug 17 (St. Agatha) Sorrento: Feb 14 (St. Antoninus) Agrigento: Feb 25 (St. Gerland) & Jun 18 (St. Calogerus) Como: Apr 2; Aug 31 (St. Abbondio) Ragusa: Apr 23 (St. George) Venice: Apr 25 (St. Mark) & Nov 11 (St. Martin's Day) Treviso: Apr 27 (St. Liberalis) & Mar 27; Aug 1; Aug 22 (St. Augusta) Baveno: Jun 19 (Sts. Gervasius & Protasius) Matera: Jun 20 (St. John) & Jul 2 (St. Madonna della Bruna) Florence, Genoa & Turin: Jun 24 (St John the Baptist) Amalfi: Jun 27; Nov 30 (St. Andrew) Rome: Jun 29 (St. Peter & Paul) Siena: Jul 2 & Aug 16, Palio horserace Taormina: Jul 8-9 (St. Pancras) Palermo: Jul 15 (St. Rosalia) Santa Margherita Ligure: July 20 (St. Margaret of Antiochia) Lecce: Aug 26 (St. Orontius) Naples: Sep 19 (St. Gennaro) Bologna: Oct 4 (St. Petronius) Trieste: Nov 3 (St. Giusto) Montecatini: Dec 4 (St. Barbara) Bari: Dec 6, May 7-9 (St. Nicholas) Milan & Stresa: Dec 7 (St. Ambrose) Siracusa: Dec 13 (St. Lucy) Holidays 2024 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 6: Epiphany Mar 31: Easter Sunday Apr 1: Easter Monday Apr 25: Liberation Day May 1: Labor Day Jun 2: Republic Day Aug 15: Assumption of the Virgin Mary / Ferragosto Nov 1: All Saints Day Dec 8: Immaculate Conception Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Please note that in addition, local feast days are held in honor of town patron saints, generally without closure of shops and offices. These include: Parma: Jan 13-14 (St. Hilary of Poitiers), Aug 16-17 (St. Roch) Catania: Feb 3-5 & Aug 17 (St. Agatha) Sorrento: Feb 14 (St. Antoninus) Agrigento: Feb 25 (St. Gerland) & July 7-July 14 (St. Calogerus) Como: Aug 31 (St. Abbondio) Ragusa: May 26 (St. George) Venice: Apr 25 (St. Mark) & Nov 11 (St. Martin's Day) Treviso: Apr 27 (St. Liberalis); Mar 27, Aug 1 & Aug 22 (St. Augusta) Baveno: Jun 19 (Sts. Gervasius & Protasius) Matera: Jun 20 (St. John) & Jul 2 (St. Madonna della Bruna) Florence, Genoa & Turin: Jun 24 (St John the Baptist) Amalfi: Jun 27; Nov 30 (Sant' Andrea) Rome: Jun 29 (St. Peter & Paul) Siena: Jul 2 & Aug 16, Palio horserace Taormina: Jul 8-9 (St. Pancras) Palermo: Jul 14-15 (St. Rosalia) Santa Margherita Ligure: July 20 (St. Margaret of Antiochia) Lecce: Aug 26 (St. Orontius) Naples: Sep 19 (St. Gennaro) Bologna: Oct 4 (St. Petronius) Trieste: Nov 3 (St. Giusto) Montecatini: Dec 4 (St. Barbara) Bari: Dec 6 & May 7-9 (St. Nicholas) Milan & Stresa: Dec 7 (St. Ambrose) Siracusa: Dec 13 (St. Lucy) |
| Holidays - Slovenia |
Holidays 2023 Jan 1-2: New Year's Day, observed Feb 8: Prešeren Day Apr 9: Easter Sunday Apr 10: Easter Monday Apr 27: Day of Uprising Against Occupation May 1-2: Labor Day/May Day, observed May 28: Whit Sunday Aug 15: Assumption of Mary Oct 31: Reformation Day Nov 1: Remembrance Day Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: Independence and Unity Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve Holidays 2024 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 2: New Year Holiday Feb 8: Prešeren Day Mar 31: Easter Sunday Apr 1: Easter Monday Apr 27: Day of Uprising Against Occupation May 1: Labor Day/May Day May 2: Labor Day Holiday May 19: Whit Sunday Aug 15: Assumption of Mary Oct 31: Reformation Day Nov 1: Remembrance Day Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: Independence and Unity Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve |
| Holidays - Croatia |
Holidays 2023 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 6: Feast of the Epiphany Apr 9: Easter Apr 10: Easter Monday May 1: Labor Day/May Day May 30: Statehood Day Jun 8: Corpus Christi Jun 22: Day of Anti-Fascist Struggle Aug 5: Victory Day Aug 15: Feast of the Assumption Oct 8: Independence Day Nov 1: All Saints' Day Nov 18: Remembrance Day Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Holidays 2024 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 6: Feast of the Epiphany Mar 31: Easter Apr 1: Easter Monday May 1: Labor Day/May Day May 30: Statehood Day May 30: Corpus Christi Jun 22: Day of Anti-Fascist Struggle Aug 5: Victory Day Aug 15: Feast of the Assumption Nov 1: All Saints' Day Nov 18: Remembrance Day Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day |
| Papal Audiences, Vatican City - Italy |
| General audiences with His Holiness the Pope are usually held once a week (Wednesdays at 11 a.m.) in Vatican City. They may be held inside the Basilica itself or in the hall of the Papal Audiences (Aula Paolo VI, Seating 7000), and in summer in Saint Peter's Square or in the papal summer residence at Castel Gandolfo. Please note that Castel Gandolfo is located approximately 20 miles south-east of Rome, not in Vatican City. Catholics are requested to have a letter of introduction from their parish priest. For this audience women should dress modestly, with arms and head covered. Dress should be dark or subdued in color. Men are requested to wear a tie and jacket. |
| New Venice Visitor Tax Regulation - It was recently announced that the city of Venice will be implementing an entrance tax of 10 Euros per person for tourists visiting the city for the day. In most cases, the tax will be included in the cost of the transportation to access the city center, including cruise, taxi, or public transportation. However, there may be instances where visitors will need to pay the tax upon arrival. We regret that we are currently unable to collect this tax in advance. Due to the uncertainty of this new regulation the information above is subject to change. |
| Know Before You Go | |
| Although most of the planning and preparation is taken care of for you, there are still a few things you should know and some details you should take care of to ensure your comfort, safety and peace of mind. Please review the following information before your departure to ensure that any surprises along the way will only be pleasant ones. |
| Getting Ready to Go |
| Passports and Visas |
| It is each traveler's responsibility to have a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the dates of travel and a visa if required. Please check the information at www.gate1travel.com/visas.aspx for the specific country/region you are visiting for more details. IMPORTANT: Passengers who are not U.S. citizens must check with the respective consulate or a visa agency to determine what personal identification is required. Passengers who enter, leave and then re-enter the same country on their itinerary should check if they require a double-entry visa. Passport applications are available at most U.S. Post Offices, as well as at regional Passport Agencies. Passengers requiring visas, whether obtained in advance or locally upon arrival, should ensure that their passport has blank pages.
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| 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 |
| Italy - Spring and Fall: 55-75°F; Summer: 70-85°F; Winter: 40-55°F. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. The months of October through March are considered rainy season in Venice, leading to high tides and occasionally waters reaching pedestrian areas. We suggest including a rain jacket and boots on your packing list. On cruises, informal dress is the general rule though on formal nights, a cocktail dress for women and a suit or coat and tie for men is required. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops). Italy Average Temperatures: https://www.gate1travel.com/weather/europe/default.aspx#italy-weather |
| Slovenia - Spring and Autumn: 40–65°F; Summer: 55–75°F; Winter: 20–35°F. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops). Slovenia Average Temperatures:https://www.gate1travel.com/weather/europe/default.aspx#slovenia-weather |
| Croatia - Spring and Autumn: 40–65°F; Summer: 65–85°F; Winter: 30–45°F. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops). Croatia Average Temperatures: https://www.gate1travel.com/weather/europe/default.aspx#croatia-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. |
| ITALY: Books Venice Is a Fish: A Sensual Guide by Tiziano Scarpa Secrets of Rome: Love and Death in the Eternal City or Secrets of the Vatican by Corrado Augias Under the Tuscan Sun: At Home in Italy or In Tuscany by Frances Mayes Caesar: Life of a Colossus by Adrian Keith Goldsworthy Italy for the Gourmet Traveler by Fred Plotkin Medici: Godfathers of the Renaissance by Paul Strathern A Day in the Life of Ancient Rome by Alberto Angela The Adventures of Pinocchio by Carlo Collodi Roma: The Novel of Ancient Rome by Steven Saylor ITALY: Films The Great Beauty (2013) I Am Love (2010) Under the Tuscan Sun (2003) The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999) Life is Beautiful (1997) A Room with a View (1985) La Dolce Vita (1960) Three Coins in the Fountain (1954) |
| Preparing for Your Trip |
| Seat Assignments |
| As a courtesy service, complimentary airline seat assignments are requested on your behalf and, when available, are displayed in order of Passenger #1, #2 and so on. Assignments reflect the best available seats at the time of booking. Some airlines and/or fare types do not allow for pre-seating and require this be done at airport check-in only; in which case the display shows “N/A”. Seats are subject to change by your airline(s) including, for example, when there is a schedule change or equipment change after your initial booking; this may cause seat assignments to be changed or even cancelled. Some airlines offer preferred seating for an additional fee; these seats may only be purchased directly from the airline. You will need your family name and the 6-digit airline “Record Locator” which is displayed with the flight details on your reservation. In the event that you change seat assignments directly with your airline, changes will not be reflected on your invoice or documents. At the time that Gate 1 travel documents are issued, the currently assigned seats will be listed based on the assignments stored in your airline reservation at that time. Should you have questions regarding your assignments, please write to us at www.gate1travel.com/contactus. |
| Luggage & Packing |
| Checked bags are typically limited to a total dimension of 62 inches by adding length + width + height (example: 26"+26"+10" = 62”), and a maximum weight of 50 lbs (23kg). Smart Bags with a USB charging port, GPS tracking device and other high-tech features are prohibited as checked or carry-on baggage unless the bag is made with removable batteries and the batteries are removed and stored separately. Many airlines charge for checked bags including flights which begin and end within the USA. The most inexpensive airfare options commonly known as Basic Economy airfares do not include any checked bags nor seat assignments before the day of departure. However, for some airlines, other airfare categories also do not include checked baggage. This will be clearly displayed in our airfare selection and on your invoice. Where available, we highly recommend selecting airfares which include at least 1 piece of checked baggage. Gate 1 Travel is not responsible for checked bag fees, excess luggage or weight charges levied by an airline. Checked baggage allowances displayed on reservation details and invoices reflect the applicable allowance at the time of booking but are subject to change by your airline(s). For your airline’s requirements and fees, visit www.gate1travel.com/baggagefees.aspx. For important baggage information, visit www.gate1travel.com/luggage.aspx. Avoid placing valuables in your checked luggage. Federal law forbids the carriage of hazardous materials aboard the aircraft in your luggage, your carry-on or on your person. A violation can result in five years’ imprisonment and penalties of $250,000 or more (49 U.S.C. 5124). Hazardous materials include explosives, compressed gases, flammable liquids and solids, oxidizers, poisons, corrosives and radioactive materials. Examples: Paints, lighter fluid, fireworks, tear gases, oxygen bottles, and radio-pharmaceuticals. There are special exceptions for small quantities (up to 70 ounces total) of medicinal and toilet articles carried in your luggage and certain smoking materials carried on your person. Check the Transportation and Safety Administration (TSA) website www.tsa.gov to find out the current list of acceptable items you may bring on a plane before packing. We recommend that you use brightly colored luggage tags, straps or other identifiers to help you locate you luggage upon arrival or to describe it in the event that it is lost. |
| Day of Departure |
| Flight Services |
| What to do if You Need Assistance |
Whether you purchased your airfare from Gate 1 Travel or from the airline directly, please bear in mind that Gate 1 Travel does not own nor operate the airline(s), nor the airport facilities where they operate. At times, flying can be a frustrating experience, especially when things do not go exactly as planned, and airline explanations can be confusing or even misleading. Should you face a problem, remain calm and seek assistance either from the airline directly or from Gate 1. Please be aware that in most cases, on the day of your flight(s), airlines pass responsibility for your reservation to their staff at the airport and it is not always possible for Gate 1 Travel to intervene on your behalf, either through our reservations system or directly with your airline. |
| Arrival & Departure |
| Arrival Procedures |
| Upon arrival, please complete immigration formalities if necessary and claim your luggage. If your program includes airport arrival transfers, check your voucher for specific instructions, as they vary with every destination. In most cases, you will be met after collecting your luggage or passing through Customs by the local representative who will be holding a Gate 1 Travel sign and/or a sign with your name on it. In some instances you will be instructed to walk a short distance to a transportation counter. The company's name and location will be printed on your voucher. If for any reason you do not connect with the Gate 1 transfer personnel, go to the Tourist Information Desk and ask them to page the Gate 1 Travel representative or phone the number on your voucher. If you are delayed due to lost luggage, phone the number on the voucher or have a companion exit the Customs Area to advise the transfer representative. |
| What To Do When Your Flight Is Delayed |
| Airlines do not share flight manifest information. Therefore, the only way we may learn of a delay or schedule change while you are traveling is from you, the traveler. The sooner you are able to contact one of our offices, the better we can respond. Please refer to the Emergency Assistance instructions on this same document. Gate 1 Travel is only able to guarantee pre-reserved arrival transfers for up to one hour from the scheduled time, no matter the cause. In case you are delayed for any reason, and are unable to follow the instructions on your voucher, please make independent transfer arrangements and retain your receipts. Unused tour services, including transfers and hotel nights are not refundable. Upon you return home you will need to contact your airline and/or insurance carrier to investigate the possibility of reimbursement for any unused tour services. |
| Departure Procedures |
| If your program includes departure transfers, instructions will be stated on your voucher or provided locally. |
| Transfers |
| Due to local traffic and other extenuating circumstances, we ask that you allow 30 minutes from your scheduled transfer time for our representative to arrive. This includes hotel, airport and cruise transfers. Such possible delays are taken into consideration in scheduling transfers and you should therefore have no concerns about arriving late for your tour, flight or cruise. For transfers from a hotel, let the hotel reception desk or concierge know that you are waiting for a transfer. In the case of a missed transfer, reimbursement for your out-of-pocket expenses will be considered provided you obtain a written statement from the hotel's front desk verifying the length of time you waited, and the time you left the hotel, and a receipt for your transportation with time and date. The cost of a transfer is more expensive than hiring a taxi, as a Gate 1 transfer necessarily includes round trip service, or 'dead-leg'. Often the places of call (airports, seaports, hotels) demand entrance and parking fees, where drivers may have to wait for up to an hour. Passengers comfortable hiring a taxi on their own and do not require assistance will save money. |
| Venice Transfers - Most transfers in Venice are provided by water taxi (occasionally transfers may be provided by car). Only those hotels with a canal mooring can be reached directly. For all others, the water taxi will drop off and pick up at the nearest mooring. It will then be necessary to walk to your hotel. In some cases the hotel may be several blocks away. Some mooring areas cannot be reached during high or low tide, heavy rain, or storms. In this event, the nearest available mooring will be used. Since few of the mooring areas have porters to assist with transporting luggage, it is strongly recommended that you travel with one piece of wheeled luggage that you are comfortable handling on your own. |
| Venice Airport Link Shared Water Taxi Transfers (Hotel to Airport) - The departure time & location of your transfer will be advised at least 24 hours prior to your departure. If you do not receive this information by that time, please call the Local Phone number provided on your voucher. Please be at the mooring location indicated at least 5 minutes prior to pick up time. Your pre-paid voucher is valid only for the Airport Link water taxi operated by BUCINTORO and only for the date indicated on your voucher and time communicated locally. Your pre-paid Gate 1 voucher is NOT valid for any other water taxi. Upon arrival at the airport, it will be necessary to walk approximately half a mile, with your luggage, from the dock to the terminal. |
| About Your Accommodations |
| Hotels |
| Gate 1 Travel has carefully selected each hotel based on overall quality, location, price, food, service, and cleanliness. All rooms are standard twin-bedded (two single beds) rooms with private facilities. Special requests such as bed types, smoking preference and connecting rooms are subject to availability. Room selection in all cases, unless otherwise reserved, is strictly at the discretion of the hotel's management on a run-of-house basis. Triple rooms consist of standard twin beds or one double bed plus a sofa/folding bed or cot for third person except in the U.S. and Canada, where triple rooms often consist of two double/queen beds for three persons; where available, a fee may be charged by the hotel for the addition of a cot/rollaway. The number of persons accommodated does not dictate the room size. Although available at most 4 and 5 star hotels, the use of air-conditioning abroad differs greatly from the United States, and is often shut down at night and from the end until the start of the summer months. Some lodges and accommodations in remote regions may not have all of the amenities, such as hairdryer, alarm clock and room service, that you might find in a larger hotel located in a city center. |
| Hotel Check-in/ Check-out |
| Hotel check-in time is generally not before 4:00 p.m. and check-out time is prior to noon. If you will be arriving early in the day or departing in the evening, hotels will usually allow you to store your luggage in their luggage room. Ask at the front desk if the hotel can check you in earlier, or let you stay later. |
| Venice City Tax - The authorities of Venice apply a city tax on all hotels. The tax requires a contribution of Euro 3.50 per person per night for a 3 star hotel, Euro 4.50 per person per night for 4 star hotels and Euro 5 per person per night for a 5 star hotel. It will be charged and collected by your hotel and is payable in cash only. We regret that we are currently unable to collect this tax in advance or include it in your price for customers who are traveling independently or who arrange independent pre- or post-tour stays on an escorted tour. This tax is included in the tour price for customers who are traveling on an escorted tour accompanied by a Tour Manager who is able to pay directly to the hotel on your behalf. Please note that our hotel ratings may differ from official star ratings which determine the tax level. |
| At Your Destination |
| Eco & Sustainable Tourism |
| We support global efforts to create a more eco-friendly world, intolerant of any forms of cruelty, abuse and intentional environmental destruction. To that end we ask that our clients maintain a watchful eye as they travel, and report any abuses they may encounter. One of the many benefits of tourism is the shared cultural knowledge and ultimate elimination of negative behavior through education. We rely on your good feedback to enable this element of symbiosis. As you travel and learn about foreign cultures, we ask first and foremost that you practice tolerance and respect for local customs. |
| Gratuities |
| Tipping is always a matter of personal discretion. For your convenience, please use the summary below as a guideline for recommended gratuity amounts. Gratuities may be paid in local currency or US dollar equivalent where accepted. Please be aware that tipping is considered by many locals to be a part of their normal remuneration and some may approach you for additional "compensation." There is no need to be intimidated by the request, nor should you feel pressured to pay more than recommended. If you become uncomfortable by any behavior you encounter, please advise your tour manager or phone our local office. Numbers are provided in your documents for your convenience. |
| Suggested Tipping: Escorted Tours |
Tour Manager (Coordinator; may or may not act as a guide): US $12 per person per day Driver (Provides chauffeur services and limited assistance with luggage) : US $7 per person per day, US $4 per half day Local Guide (Offers in-depth information at specific locations. There may be one or many guides along a tour program): US $7 per person per day of sightseeing, US $4 per half day Hotel porters and wait staff: Included |
| Italy - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. Restaurant bills often include a service charge. 5-10% is customary for good service. |
| Slovenia - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. Restaurant bills often include a service charge. |
| Croatia - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. Restaurant bills often include a service charge. |
| 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. |
| Optional Full Day Montenegro Tour from Dubrovnik |
| Please note that changes to the Schengen border rule may result in longer wait times at the border crossing between Croatia and Montenegro, thus creating a very long day. |
| 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 |
| Italy - The Euro is the currency of Italy. Italian bank opening hours are typically Monday through Friday, 9am to 1pm depending on the bank. Most Italian banks do not offer exchange service. For this reason, it is strongly recommended to acquire a small amount of Euros prior to arriving. ATM machines are a better option. |
| Slovenia - The Euro is the currency of Slovenia. |
| Croatia - The Euro is the currency of Croatia. |
| Shopping |
| Most people enjoy bringing home at least one souvenir from the countries they visit. However, some find any amount of shopping to be too much while others never find enough opportunities. We have built into our Escorted itineraries a few shopping stops at recommended spots. These stops are designed to enhance your experience by providing an opportunity to see first-hand quality locally crafted merchandise which you may not be able to find on your own. Shops are checked to ensure the quality and authenticity of the products they offer, and we limit guides from visiting other locations. In some cases, we plan these stops to provide an opportunity to use clean bathrooms and to stretch your legs. All shops want your satisfaction, and therefore in case of any misunderstanding they ask that you kindly submit your claim to us within one week of the item's receipt. Claims submitted later will be subject to each store’s policies. While shopping independently, we advise you to exercise care and common sense when making any purchase. Always get a formal receipt. And remember that, just like in this country, if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is! About Tax-Free Shopping Tax-Free Shopping allows shoppers to reclaim the VAT (Value-Added Tax) or GST (Goods and Services Tax) they have paid on their purchases in some foreign countries in accordance with restrictions and procedures as dictated by each country. Refund eligibility varies by country, but may require presenting a scanned copy of your passport at the time of purchase, a minimum amount spent, or providing original store receipts. For more details, check the respective country’s online website, with the shop salesperson, with your tour manager or at www.globalblue.com for specific country regulations and airport operation hours. Please keep in mind that you must apply for VAT refund in the airport of the country the items were purchased and allow enough time prior to your flight for the application. U.S. Customs & Shipping Charges You may carry items with a fair retail value totaling $800 into the U.S. Taxes may be applied to the next $1,000 worth of merchandise. U.S. Customs determines the value of your items, often honoring a genuine sales receipt. Items which are shipped home are always subject to duty when received in the U.S. (in addition to shipping charges). Some shops may offer to include shipping and duties in the price but this typically means shipping only to the customs facility closest to you and payment only of the export duties; you would still need to collect the item and pay U.S. import duties. Please be aware that it is illegal to import products made from endangered animal species. U.S. Customs & Border Protection will seize these items, as well as most furs, coral, tortoise shell, reptile skins, feathers, plants, and items made from animal skins. |
| Italy - Shops are generally open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 3:00 to 8:00 p.m., with some variations in Northern Italy, where the lunch break is shorter and shops close earlier. In the major cities, large stores and souvenir shops remain open throughout the day. Italy is renowned for its fashion industry, with fine clothes for men and women, lacework, jewelry, and leather accessories. Other quality goods include ceramics, gold and silver items, alabaster, woodwork, embroidery, glass and crystal ware. Major credit cards are usually accepted, though cash is preferred for small purchases. |
| Slovenia - Local specialties include bobbin lace, crystal, glassware, and wine. Business hours are Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. - 8 p.m., and Saturday 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. A value-added tax is now added to the purchase price of most goods. |
| Croatia - For the best prices, seek out local markets offering a wide assortment of traditional handicrafts such as embroidery, ceramics, and woodcarvings. In stores, lavender sachets, fine Adriatic red coral, and crystal ware are popular items. Shops are generally open all day from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., with shorter hours on Saturdays. |
| 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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| Caution: Tours of the Forum & Colosseum, Rome - Please note that there have been reports of street vendors wearing Gate 1 Travel identification tags who offer tours of the Colosseum in Rome. These vendors are not employed by Gate 1 and are in no way affiliated with the company. Gate 1 tours are offered only for purchase in advance of your trip to Italy, or locally by your Tour Manager. Passengers traveling independently are recommended to purchase their tours through official vendors and to avoid street sales. |
| Security at Major Sites - Please expect longer wait times at major sightseeing locations due to heightened security restrictions. These locations include, but are not limited to, the San Marco Basilica in Venice, the Accademia in Florence, and the Colosseum & Vatican in Rome. Bags of any kind are no longer allowed inside the San Marco Basilica and large bags/backpacks are restricted from the Colosseum. We suggest you to carry only necessary items (i.e. wallet, cell phone, camera) safely on your body and leave all other valuables in the hotel room safe when visiting these sites. |
| Local Emergency Phone Numbers |
Italy
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Slovenia
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Croatia
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| Languages |
| Italy - Italian is the local language. English is generally spoken in tourist areas. |
| Slovenia - Slovene is the local language. Croatian, Serbian, German, English, and Italian are also spoken by some. |
| Croatia - Croatian is the local language. Italian and limited English are generally spoken in tourist areas. |
| Electricity |
| Please note: The U.S. uses 120 volts and you can purchase a converter and transformer at most hardware stores for your 120V appliances. |
| Italy - The voltage used is 220 volts. |
| Slovenia - The voltage used is 220 volts. |
| Croatia - The voltage used is 220 volts. |
| Code of Conduct |
| Italy - Family and social ties are, broadly speaking, stronger in Italy than in other Western European countries, and the Roman Catholic church retains a strong cultural influence. Common courtesies should be practiced. Casual dress is appropriate, but beachwear should be confined to the beach and poolside. Conservative clothing should be worn when visiting religious buildings, meaning legs and shoulders should be covered. While the cities are very safe, pickpocketing can occur. Avoid conspicuous expensive jewelry and be mindful of your wallet or handbag. Even though many Italians smoke, smoking is prohibited in all public buildings, public transport, cinemas and restaurants. |
| Slovenia - Dress should be casual, but conservative, except at formal dinners and upscale hotels or restaurants. At restaurants, bread will often be brought and charged even if not requested. This is customary and should not be disputed. Slovenes are known for their friendliness and hospitality to foreigners and even new acquaintances may offer a drink. |
| Croatia - Shaking hands is a standard form of greeting and saying goodbye. Casual dress is appropriate and normal courtesies should be observed. Smoking is prohibited on public transportation and in theaters and public offices. |
| Meals & Dietary Requests |
| Included meals are based on the restaurant's buffet or set menu. Beverages are not included, unless specifically stated. Although special diets like Vegetarian and Vegan are relatively commonplace in the USA, much of the world's menu options are more provincial. Please do not expect to find the variety of food selection outside of the local norm. Every effort will be made to honor special dietary requests selected no later than 5 days prior to departure in the passenger details section of your reservation. In addition, we recommend that you make preferences known to your tour manager upon arrival, and at each hotel/restaurant. |
| Holidays |
| On public holidays, there may be reduced public transportation, as well as limited hours or closures of attractions, shops and restaurants. |
| Holidays - Italy |
Holidays 2023 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 6: Epiphany Apr 9: Easter Sunday Apr 10: Easter Monday Apr 25: Liberation Day May 1: Labor Day Jun 2: Republic Day Aug 15: Assumption of the Virgin Nov 1: All Saints Day Dec 8: Immaculate Conception Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Please note that in addition, local feast days are held in honor of town patron saints, generally without closure of shops and offices. These include: Parma: Jan 13-14 (St. Hilary of Poitiers), Aug 16-17 (St. Roch) & May 5 (St. Honoratus) Catania: Feb 3-5; Aug 17 (St. Agatha) Sorrento: Feb 14 (St. Antoninus) Agrigento: Feb 25 (St. Gerland) & Jun 18 (St. Calogerus) Como: Apr 2; Aug 31 (St. Abbondio) Ragusa: Apr 23 (St. George) Venice: Apr 25 (St. Mark) & Nov 11 (St. Martin's Day) Treviso: Apr 27 (St. Liberalis) & Mar 27; Aug 1; Aug 22 (St. Augusta) Baveno: Jun 19 (Sts. Gervasius & Protasius) Matera: Jun 20 (St. John) & Jul 2 (St. Madonna della Bruna) Florence, Genoa & Turin: Jun 24 (St John the Baptist) Amalfi: Jun 27; Nov 30 (St. Andrew) Rome: Jun 29 (St. Peter & Paul) Siena: Jul 2 & Aug 16, Palio horserace Taormina: Jul 8-9 (St. Pancras) Palermo: Jul 15 (St. Rosalia) Santa Margherita Ligure: July 20 (St. Margaret of Antiochia) Lecce: Aug 26 (St. Orontius) Naples: Sep 19 (St. Gennaro) Bologna: Oct 4 (St. Petronius) Trieste: Nov 3 (St. Giusto) Montecatini: Dec 4 (St. Barbara) Bari: Dec 6, May 7-9 (St. Nicholas) Milan & Stresa: Dec 7 (St. Ambrose) Siracusa: Dec 13 (St. Lucy) Holidays 2024 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 6: Epiphany Mar 31: Easter Sunday Apr 1: Easter Monday Apr 25: Liberation Day May 1: Labor Day Jun 2: Republic Day Aug 15: Assumption of the Virgin Mary / Ferragosto Nov 1: All Saints Day Dec 8: Immaculate Conception Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Please note that in addition, local feast days are held in honor of town patron saints, generally without closure of shops and offices. These include: Parma: Jan 13-14 (St. Hilary of Poitiers), Aug 16-17 (St. Roch) Catania: Feb 3-5 & Aug 17 (St. Agatha) Sorrento: Feb 14 (St. Antoninus) Agrigento: Feb 25 (St. Gerland) & July 7-July 14 (St. Calogerus) Como: Aug 31 (St. Abbondio) Ragusa: May 26 (St. George) Venice: Apr 25 (St. Mark) & Nov 11 (St. Martin's Day) Treviso: Apr 27 (St. Liberalis); Mar 27, Aug 1 & Aug 22 (St. Augusta) Baveno: Jun 19 (Sts. Gervasius & Protasius) Matera: Jun 20 (St. John) & Jul 2 (St. Madonna della Bruna) Florence, Genoa & Turin: Jun 24 (St John the Baptist) Amalfi: Jun 27; Nov 30 (Sant' Andrea) Rome: Jun 29 (St. Peter & Paul) Siena: Jul 2 & Aug 16, Palio horserace Taormina: Jul 8-9 (St. Pancras) Palermo: Jul 14-15 (St. Rosalia) Santa Margherita Ligure: July 20 (St. Margaret of Antiochia) Lecce: Aug 26 (St. Orontius) Naples: Sep 19 (St. Gennaro) Bologna: Oct 4 (St. Petronius) Trieste: Nov 3 (St. Giusto) Montecatini: Dec 4 (St. Barbara) Bari: Dec 6 & May 7-9 (St. Nicholas) Milan & Stresa: Dec 7 (St. Ambrose) Siracusa: Dec 13 (St. Lucy) |
| Holidays - Slovenia |
Holidays 2023 Jan 1-2: New Year's Day, observed Feb 8: Prešeren Day Apr 9: Easter Sunday Apr 10: Easter Monday Apr 27: Day of Uprising Against Occupation May 1-2: Labor Day/May Day, observed May 28: Whit Sunday Aug 15: Assumption of Mary Oct 31: Reformation Day Nov 1: Remembrance Day Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: Independence and Unity Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve Holidays 2024 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 2: New Year Holiday Feb 8: Prešeren Day Mar 31: Easter Sunday Apr 1: Easter Monday Apr 27: Day of Uprising Against Occupation May 1: Labor Day/May Day May 2: Labor Day Holiday May 19: Whit Sunday Aug 15: Assumption of Mary Oct 31: Reformation Day Nov 1: Remembrance Day Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: Independence and Unity Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve |
| Holidays - Croatia |
Holidays 2023 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 6: Feast of the Epiphany Apr 9: Easter Apr 10: Easter Monday May 1: Labor Day/May Day May 30: Statehood Day Jun 8: Corpus Christi Jun 22: Day of Anti-Fascist Struggle Aug 5: Victory Day Aug 15: Feast of the Assumption Oct 8: Independence Day Nov 1: All Saints' Day Nov 18: Remembrance Day Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Holidays 2024 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 6: Feast of the Epiphany Mar 31: Easter Apr 1: Easter Monday May 1: Labor Day/May Day May 30: Statehood Day May 30: Corpus Christi Jun 22: Day of Anti-Fascist Struggle Aug 5: Victory Day Aug 15: Feast of the Assumption Nov 1: All Saints' Day Nov 18: Remembrance Day Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day |
| Papal Audiences, Vatican City - Italy |
| General audiences with His Holiness the Pope are usually held once a week (Wednesdays at 11 a.m.) in Vatican City. They may be held inside the Basilica itself or in the hall of the Papal Audiences (Aula Paolo VI, Seating 7000), and in summer in Saint Peter's Square or in the papal summer residence at Castel Gandolfo. Please note that Castel Gandolfo is located approximately 20 miles south-east of Rome, not in Vatican City. Catholics are requested to have a letter of introduction from their parish priest. For this audience women should dress modestly, with arms and head covered. Dress should be dark or subdued in color. Men are requested to wear a tie and jacket. |
| New Venice Visitor Tax Regulation - It was recently announced that the city of Venice will be implementing an entrance tax of 10 Euros per person for tourists visiting the city for the day. In most cases, the tax will be included in the cost of the transportation to access the city center, including cruise, taxi, or public transportation. However, there may be instances where visitors will need to pay the tax upon arrival. We regret that we are currently unable to collect this tax in advance. Due to the uncertainty of this new regulation the information above is subject to change. |
| Know Before You Go | |
| Although most of the planning and preparation is taken care of for you, there are still a few things you should know and some details you should take care of to ensure your comfort, safety and peace of mind. Please review the following information before your departure to ensure that any surprises along the way will only be pleasant ones. |
| Getting Ready to Go |
| Passports and Visas |
| It is each traveler's responsibility to have a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the dates of travel and a visa if required. Please check the information at www.gate1travel.com/visas.aspx for the specific country/region you are visiting for more details. IMPORTANT: Passengers who are not U.S. citizens must check with the respective consulate or a visa agency to determine what personal identification is required. Passengers who enter, leave and then re-enter the same country on their itinerary should check if they require a double-entry visa. Passport applications are available at most U.S. Post Offices, as well as at regional Passport Agencies. Passengers requiring visas, whether obtained in advance or locally upon arrival, should ensure that their passport has blank pages.
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| 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 |
| Italy - Spring and Fall: 55-75°F; Summer: 70-85°F; Winter: 40-55°F. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. The months of October through March are considered rainy season in Venice, leading to high tides and occasionally waters reaching pedestrian areas. We suggest including a rain jacket and boots on your packing list. On cruises, informal dress is the general rule though on formal nights, a cocktail dress for women and a suit or coat and tie for men is required. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops). Italy Average Temperatures: https://www.gate1travel.com/weather/europe/default.aspx#italy-weather |
| Slovenia - Spring and Autumn: 40–65°F; Summer: 55–75°F; Winter: 20–35°F. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops). Slovenia Average Temperatures:https://www.gate1travel.com/weather/europe/default.aspx#slovenia-weather |
| Croatia - Spring and Autumn: 40–65°F; Summer: 65–85°F; Winter: 30–45°F. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops). Croatia Average Temperatures: https://www.gate1travel.com/weather/europe/default.aspx#croatia-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. |
| ITALY: Books Venice Is a Fish: A Sensual Guide by Tiziano Scarpa Secrets of Rome: Love and Death in the Eternal City or Secrets of the Vatican by Corrado Augias Under the Tuscan Sun: At Home in Italy or In Tuscany by Frances Mayes Caesar: Life of a Colossus by Adrian Keith Goldsworthy Italy for the Gourmet Traveler by Fred Plotkin Medici: Godfathers of the Renaissance by Paul Strathern A Day in the Life of Ancient Rome by Alberto Angela The Adventures of Pinocchio by Carlo Collodi Roma: The Novel of Ancient Rome by Steven Saylor ITALY: Films The Great Beauty (2013) I Am Love (2010) Under the Tuscan Sun (2003) The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999) Life is Beautiful (1997) A Room with a View (1985) La Dolce Vita (1960) Three Coins in the Fountain (1954) |
| Preparing for Your Trip |
| Seat Assignments |
| As a courtesy service, complimentary airline seat assignments are requested on your behalf and, when available, are displayed in order of Passenger #1, #2 and so on. Assignments reflect the best available seats at the time of booking. Some airlines and/or fare types do not allow for pre-seating and require this be done at airport check-in only; in which case the display shows “N/A”. Seats are subject to change by your airline(s) including, for example, when there is a schedule change or equipment change after your initial booking; this may cause seat assignments to be changed or even cancelled. Some airlines offer preferred seating for an additional fee; these seats may only be purchased directly from the airline. You will need your family name and the 6-digit airline “Record Locator” which is displayed with the flight details on your reservation. In the event that you change seat assignments directly with your airline, changes will not be reflected on your invoice or documents. At the time that Gate 1 travel documents are issued, the currently assigned seats will be listed based on the assignments stored in your airline reservation at that time. Should you have questions regarding your assignments, please write to us at www.gate1travel.com/contactus. |
| Luggage & Packing |
| Checked bags are typically limited to a total dimension of 62 inches by adding length + width + height (example: 26"+26"+10" = 62”), and a maximum weight of 50 lbs (23kg). Smart Bags with a USB charging port, GPS tracking device and other high-tech features are prohibited as checked or carry-on baggage unless the bag is made with removable batteries and the batteries are removed and stored separately. Many airlines charge for checked bags including flights which begin and end within the USA. The most inexpensive airfare options commonly known as Basic Economy airfares do not include any checked bags nor seat assignments before the day of departure. However, for some airlines, other airfare categories also do not include checked baggage. This will be clearly displayed in our airfare selection and on your invoice. Where available, we highly recommend selecting airfares which include at least 1 piece of checked baggage. Gate 1 Travel is not responsible for checked bag fees, excess luggage or weight charges levied by an airline. Checked baggage allowances displayed on reservation details and invoices reflect the applicable allowance at the time of booking but are subject to change by your airline(s). For your airline’s requirements and fees, visit www.gate1travel.com/baggagefees.aspx. For important baggage information, visit www.gate1travel.com/luggage.aspx. Avoid placing valuables in your checked luggage. Federal law forbids the carriage of hazardous materials aboard the aircraft in your luggage, your carry-on or on your person. A violation can result in five years’ imprisonment and penalties of $250,000 or more (49 U.S.C. 5124). Hazardous materials include explosives, compressed gases, flammable liquids and solids, oxidizers, poisons, corrosives and radioactive materials. Examples: Paints, lighter fluid, fireworks, tear gases, oxygen bottles, and radio-pharmaceuticals. There are special exceptions for small quantities (up to 70 ounces total) of medicinal and toilet articles carried in your luggage and certain smoking materials carried on your person. Check the Transportation and Safety Administration (TSA) website www.tsa.gov to find out the current list of acceptable items you may bring on a plane before packing. We recommend that you use brightly colored luggage tags, straps or other identifiers to help you locate you luggage upon arrival or to describe it in the event that it is lost. |
| Day of Departure |
| Flight Services |
| What to do if You Need Assistance |
Whether you purchased your airfare from Gate 1 Travel or from the airline directly, please bear in mind that Gate 1 Travel does not own nor operate the airline(s), nor the airport facilities where they operate. At times, flying can be a frustrating experience, especially when things do not go exactly as planned, and airline explanations can be confusing or even misleading. Should you face a problem, remain calm and seek assistance either from the airline directly or from Gate 1. Please be aware that in most cases, on the day of your flight(s), airlines pass responsibility for your reservation to their staff at the airport and it is not always possible for Gate 1 Travel to intervene on your behalf, either through our reservations system or directly with your airline. |
| Arrival & Departure |
| Arrival Procedures |
| Upon arrival, please complete immigration formalities if necessary and claim your luggage. If your program includes airport arrival transfers, check your voucher for specific instructions, as they vary with every destination. In most cases, you will be met after collecting your luggage or passing through Customs by the local representative who will be holding a Gate 1 Travel sign and/or a sign with your name on it. In some instances you will be instructed to walk a short distance to a transportation counter. The company's name and location will be printed on your voucher. If for any reason you do not connect with the Gate 1 transfer personnel, go to the Tourist Information Desk and ask them to page the Gate 1 Travel representative or phone the number on your voucher. If you are delayed due to lost luggage, phone the number on the voucher or have a companion exit the Customs Area to advise the transfer representative. |
| What To Do When Your Flight Is Delayed |
| Airlines do not share flight manifest information. Therefore, the only way we may learn of a delay or schedule change while you are traveling is from you, the traveler. The sooner you are able to contact one of our offices, the better we can respond. Please refer to the Emergency Assistance instructions on this same document. Gate 1 Travel is only able to guarantee pre-reserved arrival transfers for up to one hour from the scheduled time, no matter the cause. In case you are delayed for any reason, and are unable to follow the instructions on your voucher, please make independent transfer arrangements and retain your receipts. Unused tour services, including transfers and hotel nights are not refundable. Upon you return home you will need to contact your airline and/or insurance carrier to investigate the possibility of reimbursement for any unused tour services. |
| Departure Procedures |
| If your program includes departure transfers, instructions will be stated on your voucher or provided locally. |
| Transfers |
| Due to local traffic and other extenuating circumstances, we ask that you allow 30 minutes from your scheduled transfer time for our representative to arrive. This includes hotel, airport and cruise transfers. Such possible delays are taken into consideration in scheduling transfers and you should therefore have no concerns about arriving late for your tour, flight or cruise. For transfers from a hotel, let the hotel reception desk or concierge know that you are waiting for a transfer. In the case of a missed transfer, reimbursement for your out-of-pocket expenses will be considered provided you obtain a written statement from the hotel's front desk verifying the length of time you waited, and the time you left the hotel, and a receipt for your transportation with time and date. The cost of a transfer is more expensive than hiring a taxi, as a Gate 1 transfer necessarily includes round trip service, or 'dead-leg'. Often the places of call (airports, seaports, hotels) demand entrance and parking fees, where drivers may have to wait for up to an hour. Passengers comfortable hiring a taxi on their own and do not require assistance will save money. |
| Venice Transfers - Most transfers in Venice are provided by water taxi (occasionally transfers may be provided by car). Only those hotels with a canal mooring can be reached directly. For all others, the water taxi will drop off and pick up at the nearest mooring. It will then be necessary to walk to your hotel. In some cases the hotel may be several blocks away. Some mooring areas cannot be reached during high or low tide, heavy rain, or storms. In this event, the nearest available mooring will be used. Since few of the mooring areas have porters to assist with transporting luggage, it is strongly recommended that you travel with one piece of wheeled luggage that you are comfortable handling on your own. |
| Venice Airport Link Shared Water Taxi Transfers (Hotel to Airport) - The departure time & location of your transfer will be advised at least 24 hours prior to your departure. If you do not receive this information by that time, please call the Local Phone number provided on your voucher. Please be at the mooring location indicated at least 5 minutes prior to pick up time. Your pre-paid voucher is valid only for the Airport Link water taxi operated by BUCINTORO and only for the date indicated on your voucher and time communicated locally. Your pre-paid Gate 1 voucher is NOT valid for any other water taxi. Upon arrival at the airport, it will be necessary to walk approximately half a mile, with your luggage, from the dock to the terminal. |
| About Your Accommodations |
| Hotels |
| Gate 1 Travel has carefully selected each hotel based on overall quality, location, price, food, service, and cleanliness. All rooms are standard twin-bedded (two single beds) rooms with private facilities. Special requests such as bed types, smoking preference and connecting rooms are subject to availability. Room selection in all cases, unless otherwise reserved, is strictly at the discretion of the hotel's management on a run-of-house basis. Triple rooms consist of standard twin beds or one double bed plus a sofa/folding bed or cot for third person except in the U.S. and Canada, where triple rooms often consist of two double/queen beds for three persons; where available, a fee may be charged by the hotel for the addition of a cot/rollaway. The number of persons accommodated does not dictate the room size. Although available at most 4 and 5 star hotels, the use of air-conditioning abroad differs greatly from the United States, and is often shut down at night and from the end until the start of the summer months. Some lodges and accommodations in remote regions may not have all of the amenities, such as hairdryer, alarm clock and room service, that you might find in a larger hotel located in a city center. |
| Hotel Check-in/ Check-out |
| Hotel check-in time is generally not before 4:00 p.m. and check-out time is prior to noon. If you will be arriving early in the day or departing in the evening, hotels will usually allow you to store your luggage in their luggage room. Ask at the front desk if the hotel can check you in earlier, or let you stay later. |
| Venice City Tax - The authorities of Venice apply a city tax on all hotels. The tax requires a contribution of Euro 3.50 per person per night for a 3 star hotel, Euro 4.50 per person per night for 4 star hotels and Euro 5 per person per night for a 5 star hotel. It will be charged and collected by your hotel and is payable in cash only. We regret that we are currently unable to collect this tax in advance or include it in your price for customers who are traveling independently or who arrange independent pre- or post-tour stays on an escorted tour. This tax is included in the tour price for customers who are traveling on an escorted tour accompanied by a Tour Manager who is able to pay directly to the hotel on your behalf. Please note that our hotel ratings may differ from official star ratings which determine the tax level. |
| At Your Destination |
| Eco & Sustainable Tourism |
| We support global efforts to create a more eco-friendly world, intolerant of any forms of cruelty, abuse and intentional environmental destruction. To that end we ask that our clients maintain a watchful eye as they travel, and report any abuses they may encounter. One of the many benefits of tourism is the shared cultural knowledge and ultimate elimination of negative behavior through education. We rely on your good feedback to enable this element of symbiosis. As you travel and learn about foreign cultures, we ask first and foremost that you practice tolerance and respect for local customs. |
| Gratuities |
| Tipping is always a matter of personal discretion. For your convenience, please use the summary below as a guideline for recommended gratuity amounts. Gratuities may be paid in local currency or US dollar equivalent where accepted. Please be aware that tipping is considered by many locals to be a part of their normal remuneration and some may approach you for additional "compensation." There is no need to be intimidated by the request, nor should you feel pressured to pay more than recommended. If you become uncomfortable by any behavior you encounter, please advise your tour manager or phone our local office. Numbers are provided in your documents for your convenience. |
| Suggested Tipping: Escorted Tours |
Tour Manager (Coordinator; may or may not act as a guide): US $12 per person per day Driver (Provides chauffeur services and limited assistance with luggage) : US $7 per person per day, US $4 per half day Local Guide (Offers in-depth information at specific locations. There may be one or many guides along a tour program): US $7 per person per day of sightseeing, US $4 per half day Hotel porters and wait staff: Included |
| Italy - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. Restaurant bills often include a service charge. 5-10% is customary for good service. |
| Slovenia - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. Restaurant bills often include a service charge. |
| Croatia - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. Restaurant bills often include a service charge. |
| 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. |
| Optional Full Day Montenegro Tour from Dubrovnik |
| Please note that changes to the Schengen border rule may result in longer wait times at the border crossing between Croatia and Montenegro, thus creating a very long day. |
| 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 |
| Italy - The Euro is the currency of Italy. Italian bank opening hours are typically Monday through Friday, 9am to 1pm depending on the bank. Most Italian banks do not offer exchange service. For this reason, it is strongly recommended to acquire a small amount of Euros prior to arriving. ATM machines are a better option. |
| Slovenia - The Euro is the currency of Slovenia. |
| Croatia - The Euro is the currency of Croatia. |
| Shopping |
| Most people enjoy bringing home at least one souvenir from the countries they visit. However, some find any amount of shopping to be too much while others never find enough opportunities. We have built into our Escorted itineraries a few shopping stops at recommended spots. These stops are designed to enhance your experience by providing an opportunity to see first-hand quality locally crafted merchandise which you may not be able to find on your own. Shops are checked to ensure the quality and authenticity of the products they offer, and we limit guides from visiting other locations. In some cases, we plan these stops to provide an opportunity to use clean bathrooms and to stretch your legs. All shops want your satisfaction, and therefore in case of any misunderstanding they ask that you kindly submit your claim to us within one week of the item's receipt. Claims submitted later will be subject to each store’s policies. While shopping independently, we advise you to exercise care and common sense when making any purchase. Always get a formal receipt. And remember that, just like in this country, if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is! About Tax-Free Shopping Tax-Free Shopping allows shoppers to reclaim the VAT (Value-Added Tax) or GST (Goods and Services Tax) they have paid on their purchases in some foreign countries in accordance with restrictions and procedures as dictated by each country. Refund eligibility varies by country, but may require presenting a scanned copy of your passport at the time of purchase, a minimum amount spent, or providing original store receipts. For more details, check the respective country’s online website, with the shop salesperson, with your tour manager or at www.globalblue.com for specific country regulations and airport operation hours. Please keep in mind that you must apply for VAT refund in the airport of the country the items were purchased and allow enough time prior to your flight for the application. U.S. Customs & Shipping Charges You may carry items with a fair retail value totaling $800 into the U.S. Taxes may be applied to the next $1,000 worth of merchandise. U.S. Customs determines the value of your items, often honoring a genuine sales receipt. Items which are shipped home are always subject to duty when received in the U.S. (in addition to shipping charges). Some shops may offer to include shipping and duties in the price but this typically means shipping only to the customs facility closest to you and payment only of the export duties; you would still need to collect the item and pay U.S. import duties. Please be aware that it is illegal to import products made from endangered animal species. U.S. Customs & Border Protection will seize these items, as well as most furs, coral, tortoise shell, reptile skins, feathers, plants, and items made from animal skins. |
| Italy - Shops are generally open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 3:00 to 8:00 p.m., with some variations in Northern Italy, where the lunch break is shorter and shops close earlier. In the major cities, large stores and souvenir shops remain open throughout the day. Italy is renowned for its fashion industry, with fine clothes for men and women, lacework, jewelry, and leather accessories. Other quality goods include ceramics, gold and silver items, alabaster, woodwork, embroidery, glass and crystal ware. Major credit cards are usually accepted, though cash is preferred for small purchases. |
| Slovenia - Local specialties include bobbin lace, crystal, glassware, and wine. Business hours are Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. - 8 p.m., and Saturday 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. A value-added tax is now added to the purchase price of most goods. |
| Croatia - For the best prices, seek out local markets offering a wide assortment of traditional handicrafts such as embroidery, ceramics, and woodcarvings. In stores, lavender sachets, fine Adriatic red coral, and crystal ware are popular items. Shops are generally open all day from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., with shorter hours on Saturdays. |
| 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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| Caution: Tours of the Forum & Colosseum, Rome - Please note that there have been reports of street vendors wearing Gate 1 Travel identification tags who offer tours of the Colosseum in Rome. These vendors are not employed by Gate 1 and are in no way affiliated with the company. Gate 1 tours are offered only for purchase in advance of your trip to Italy, or locally by your Tour Manager. Passengers traveling independently are recommended to purchase their tours through official vendors and to avoid street sales. |
| Security at Major Sites - Please expect longer wait times at major sightseeing locations due to heightened security restrictions. These locations include, but are not limited to, the San Marco Basilica in Venice, the Accademia in Florence, and the Colosseum & Vatican in Rome. Bags of any kind are no longer allowed inside the San Marco Basilica and large bags/backpacks are restricted from the Colosseum. We suggest you to carry only necessary items (i.e. wallet, cell phone, camera) safely on your body and leave all other valuables in the hotel room safe when visiting these sites. |
| Local Emergency Phone Numbers |
Italy
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Slovenia
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Croatia
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| Languages |
| Italy - Italian is the local language. English is generally spoken in tourist areas. |
| Slovenia - Slovene is the local language. Croatian, Serbian, German, English, and Italian are also spoken by some. |
| Croatia - Croatian is the local language. Italian and limited English are generally spoken in tourist areas. |
| Electricity |
| Please note: The U.S. uses 120 volts and you can purchase a converter and transformer at most hardware stores for your 120V appliances. |
| Italy - The voltage used is 220 volts. |
| Slovenia - The voltage used is 220 volts. |
| Croatia - The voltage used is 220 volts. |
| Code of Conduct |
| Italy - Family and social ties are, broadly speaking, stronger in Italy than in other Western European countries, and the Roman Catholic church retains a strong cultural influence. Common courtesies should be practiced. Casual dress is appropriate, but beachwear should be confined to the beach and poolside. Conservative clothing should be worn when visiting religious buildings, meaning legs and shoulders should be covered. While the cities are very safe, pickpocketing can occur. Avoid conspicuous expensive jewelry and be mindful of your wallet or handbag. Even though many Italians smoke, smoking is prohibited in all public buildings, public transport, cinemas and restaurants. |
| Slovenia - Dress should be casual, but conservative, except at formal dinners and upscale hotels or restaurants. At restaurants, bread will often be brought and charged even if not requested. This is customary and should not be disputed. Slovenes are known for their friendliness and hospitality to foreigners and even new acquaintances may offer a drink. |
| Croatia - Shaking hands is a standard form of greeting and saying goodbye. Casual dress is appropriate and normal courtesies should be observed. Smoking is prohibited on public transportation and in theaters and public offices. |
| Meals & Dietary Requests |
| Included meals are based on the restaurant's buffet or set menu. Beverages are not included, unless specifically stated. Although special diets like Vegetarian and Vegan are relatively commonplace in the USA, much of the world's menu options are more provincial. Please do not expect to find the variety of food selection outside of the local norm. Every effort will be made to honor special dietary requests selected no later than 5 days prior to departure in the passenger details section of your reservation. In addition, we recommend that you make preferences known to your tour manager upon arrival, and at each hotel/restaurant. |
| Holidays |
| On public holidays, there may be reduced public transportation, as well as limited hours or closures of attractions, shops and restaurants. |
| Holidays - Italy |
Holidays 2023 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 6: Epiphany Apr 9: Easter Sunday Apr 10: Easter Monday Apr 25: Liberation Day May 1: Labor Day Jun 2: Republic Day Aug 15: Assumption of the Virgin Nov 1: All Saints Day Dec 8: Immaculate Conception Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Please note that in addition, local feast days are held in honor of town patron saints, generally without closure of shops and offices. These include: Parma: Jan 13-14 (St. Hilary of Poitiers), Aug 16-17 (St. Roch) & May 5 (St. Honoratus) Catania: Feb 3-5; Aug 17 (St. Agatha) Sorrento: Feb 14 (St. Antoninus) Agrigento: Feb 25 (St. Gerland) & Jun 18 (St. Calogerus) Como: Apr 2; Aug 31 (St. Abbondio) Ragusa: Apr 23 (St. George) Venice: Apr 25 (St. Mark) & Nov 11 (St. Martin's Day) Treviso: Apr 27 (St. Liberalis) & Mar 27; Aug 1; Aug 22 (St. Augusta) Baveno: Jun 19 (Sts. Gervasius & Protasius) Matera: Jun 20 (St. John) & Jul 2 (St. Madonna della Bruna) Florence, Genoa & Turin: Jun 24 (St John the Baptist) Amalfi: Jun 27; Nov 30 (St. Andrew) Rome: Jun 29 (St. Peter & Paul) Siena: Jul 2 & Aug 16, Palio horserace Taormina: Jul 8-9 (St. Pancras) Palermo: Jul 15 (St. Rosalia) Santa Margherita Ligure: July 20 (St. Margaret of Antiochia) Lecce: Aug 26 (St. Orontius) Naples: Sep 19 (St. Gennaro) Bologna: Oct 4 (St. Petronius) Trieste: Nov 3 (St. Giusto) Montecatini: Dec 4 (St. Barbara) Bari: Dec 6, May 7-9 (St. Nicholas) Milan & Stresa: Dec 7 (St. Ambrose) Siracusa: Dec 13 (St. Lucy) Holidays 2024 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 6: Epiphany Mar 31: Easter Sunday Apr 1: Easter Monday Apr 25: Liberation Day May 1: Labor Day Jun 2: Republic Day Aug 15: Assumption of the Virgin Mary / Ferragosto Nov 1: All Saints Day Dec 8: Immaculate Conception Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Please note that in addition, local feast days are held in honor of town patron saints, generally without closure of shops and offices. These include: Parma: Jan 13-14 (St. Hilary of Poitiers), Aug 16-17 (St. Roch) Catania: Feb 3-5 & Aug 17 (St. Agatha) Sorrento: Feb 14 (St. Antoninus) Agrigento: Feb 25 (St. Gerland) & July 7-July 14 (St. Calogerus) Como: Aug 31 (St. Abbondio) Ragusa: May 26 (St. George) Venice: Apr 25 (St. Mark) & Nov 11 (St. Martin's Day) Treviso: Apr 27 (St. Liberalis); Mar 27, Aug 1 & Aug 22 (St. Augusta) Baveno: Jun 19 (Sts. Gervasius & Protasius) Matera: Jun 20 (St. John) & Jul 2 (St. Madonna della Bruna) Florence, Genoa & Turin: Jun 24 (St John the Baptist) Amalfi: Jun 27; Nov 30 (Sant' Andrea) Rome: Jun 29 (St. Peter & Paul) Siena: Jul 2 & Aug 16, Palio horserace Taormina: Jul 8-9 (St. Pancras) Palermo: Jul 14-15 (St. Rosalia) Santa Margherita Ligure: July 20 (St. Margaret of Antiochia) Lecce: Aug 26 (St. Orontius) Naples: Sep 19 (St. Gennaro) Bologna: Oct 4 (St. Petronius) Trieste: Nov 3 (St. Giusto) Montecatini: Dec 4 (St. Barbara) Bari: Dec 6 & May 7-9 (St. Nicholas) Milan & Stresa: Dec 7 (St. Ambrose) Siracusa: Dec 13 (St. Lucy) |
| Holidays - Slovenia |
Holidays 2023 Jan 1-2: New Year's Day, observed Feb 8: Prešeren Day Apr 9: Easter Sunday Apr 10: Easter Monday Apr 27: Day of Uprising Against Occupation May 1-2: Labor Day/May Day, observed May 28: Whit Sunday Aug 15: Assumption of Mary Oct 31: Reformation Day Nov 1: Remembrance Day Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: Independence and Unity Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve Holidays 2024 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 2: New Year Holiday Feb 8: Prešeren Day Mar 31: Easter Sunday Apr 1: Easter Monday Apr 27: Day of Uprising Against Occupation May 1: Labor Day/May Day May 2: Labor Day Holiday May 19: Whit Sunday Aug 15: Assumption of Mary Oct 31: Reformation Day Nov 1: Remembrance Day Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: Independence and Unity Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve |
| Holidays - Croatia |
Holidays 2023 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 6: Feast of the Epiphany Apr 9: Easter Apr 10: Easter Monday May 1: Labor Day/May Day May 30: Statehood Day Jun 8: Corpus Christi Jun 22: Day of Anti-Fascist Struggle Aug 5: Victory Day Aug 15: Feast of the Assumption Oct 8: Independence Day Nov 1: All Saints' Day Nov 18: Remembrance Day Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Holidays 2024 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 6: Feast of the Epiphany Mar 31: Easter Apr 1: Easter Monday May 1: Labor Day/May Day May 30: Statehood Day May 30: Corpus Christi Jun 22: Day of Anti-Fascist Struggle Aug 5: Victory Day Aug 15: Feast of the Assumption Nov 1: All Saints' Day Nov 18: Remembrance Day Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day |
| Papal Audiences, Vatican City - Italy |
| General audiences with His Holiness the Pope are usually held once a week (Wednesdays at 11 a.m.) in Vatican City. They may be held inside the Basilica itself or in the hall of the Papal Audiences (Aula Paolo VI, Seating 7000), and in summer in Saint Peter's Square or in the papal summer residence at Castel Gandolfo. Please note that Castel Gandolfo is located approximately 20 miles south-east of Rome, not in Vatican City. Catholics are requested to have a letter of introduction from their parish priest. For this audience women should dress modestly, with arms and head covered. Dress should be dark or subdued in color. Men are requested to wear a tie and jacket. |
| New Venice Visitor Tax Regulation - It was recently announced that the city of Venice will be implementing an entrance tax of 10 Euros per person for tourists visiting the city for the day. In most cases, the tax will be included in the cost of the transportation to access the city center, including cruise, taxi, or public transportation. However, there may be instances where visitors will need to pay the tax upon arrival. We regret that we are currently unable to collect this tax in advance. Due to the uncertainty of this new regulation the information above is subject to change. |
| Know Before You Go | |
| Although most of the planning and preparation is taken care of for you, there are still a few things you should know and some details you should take care of to ensure your comfort, safety and peace of mind. Please review the following information before your departure to ensure that any surprises along the way will only be pleasant ones. |
| Getting Ready to Go |
| Passports and Visas |
| It is each traveler's responsibility to have a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the dates of travel and a visa if required. Please check the information at www.gate1travel.com/visas.aspx for the specific country/region you are visiting for more details. IMPORTANT: Passengers who are not U.S. citizens must check with the respective consulate or a visa agency to determine what personal identification is required. Passengers who enter, leave and then re-enter the same country on their itinerary should check if they require a double-entry visa. Passport applications are available at most U.S. Post Offices, as well as at regional Passport Agencies. Passengers requiring visas, whether obtained in advance or locally upon arrival, should ensure that their passport has blank pages.
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| 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 |
| Italy - Spring and Fall: 55-75°F; Summer: 70-85°F; Winter: 40-55°F. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. The months of October through March are considered rainy season in Venice, leading to high tides and occasionally waters reaching pedestrian areas. We suggest including a rain jacket and boots on your packing list. On cruises, informal dress is the general rule though on formal nights, a cocktail dress for women and a suit or coat and tie for men is required. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops). Italy Average Temperatures: https://www.gate1travel.com/weather/europe/default.aspx#italy-weather |
| Slovenia - Spring and Autumn: 40–65°F; Summer: 55–75°F; Winter: 20–35°F. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops). Slovenia Average Temperatures:https://www.gate1travel.com/weather/europe/default.aspx#slovenia-weather |
| Croatia - Spring and Autumn: 40–65°F; Summer: 65–85°F; Winter: 30–45°F. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops). Croatia Average Temperatures: https://www.gate1travel.com/weather/europe/default.aspx#croatia-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. |
| ITALY: Books Venice Is a Fish: A Sensual Guide by Tiziano Scarpa Secrets of Rome: Love and Death in the Eternal City or Secrets of the Vatican by Corrado Augias Under the Tuscan Sun: At Home in Italy or In Tuscany by Frances Mayes Caesar: Life of a Colossus by Adrian Keith Goldsworthy Italy for the Gourmet Traveler by Fred Plotkin Medici: Godfathers of the Renaissance by Paul Strathern A Day in the Life of Ancient Rome by Alberto Angela The Adventures of Pinocchio by Carlo Collodi Roma: The Novel of Ancient Rome by Steven Saylor ITALY: Films The Great Beauty (2013) I Am Love (2010) Under the Tuscan Sun (2003) The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999) Life is Beautiful (1997) A Room with a View (1985) La Dolce Vita (1960) Three Coins in the Fountain (1954) |
| Preparing for Your Trip |
| Seat Assignments |
| As a courtesy service, complimentary airline seat assignments are requested on your behalf and, when available, are displayed in order of Passenger #1, #2 and so on. Assignments reflect the best available seats at the time of booking. Some airlines and/or fare types do not allow for pre-seating and require this be done at airport check-in only; in which case the display shows “N/A”. Seats are subject to change by your airline(s) including, for example, when there is a schedule change or equipment change after your initial booking; this may cause seat assignments to be changed or even cancelled. Some airlines offer preferred seating for an additional fee; these seats may only be purchased directly from the airline. You will need your family name and the 6-digit airline “Record Locator” which is displayed with the flight details on your reservation. In the event that you change seat assignments directly with your airline, changes will not be reflected on your invoice or documents. At the time that Gate 1 travel documents are issued, the currently assigned seats will be listed based on the assignments stored in your airline reservation at that time. Should you have questions regarding your assignments, please write to us at www.gate1travel.com/contactus. |
| Luggage & Packing |
| Checked bags are typically limited to a total dimension of 62 inches by adding length + width + height (example: 26"+26"+10" = 62”), and a maximum weight of 50 lbs (23kg). Smart Bags with a USB charging port, GPS tracking device and other high-tech features are prohibited as checked or carry-on baggage unless the bag is made with removable batteries and the batteries are removed and stored separately. Many airlines charge for checked bags including flights which begin and end within the USA. The most inexpensive airfare options commonly known as Basic Economy airfares do not include any checked bags nor seat assignments before the day of departure. However, for some airlines, other airfare categories also do not include checked baggage. This will be clearly displayed in our airfare selection and on your invoice. Where available, we highly recommend selecting airfares which include at least 1 piece of checked baggage. Gate 1 Travel is not responsible for checked bag fees, excess luggage or weight charges levied by an airline. Checked baggage allowances displayed on reservation details and invoices reflect the applicable allowance at the time of booking but are subject to change by your airline(s). For your airline’s requirements and fees, visit www.gate1travel.com/baggagefees.aspx. For important baggage information, visit www.gate1travel.com/luggage.aspx. Avoid placing valuables in your checked luggage. Federal law forbids the carriage of hazardous materials aboard the aircraft in your luggage, your carry-on or on your person. A violation can result in five years’ imprisonment and penalties of $250,000 or more (49 U.S.C. 5124). Hazardous materials include explosives, compressed gases, flammable liquids and solids, oxidizers, poisons, corrosives and radioactive materials. Examples: Paints, lighter fluid, fireworks, tear gases, oxygen bottles, and radio-pharmaceuticals. There are special exceptions for small quantities (up to 70 ounces total) of medicinal and toilet articles carried in your luggage and certain smoking materials carried on your person. Check the Transportation and Safety Administration (TSA) website www.tsa.gov to find out the current list of acceptable items you may bring on a plane before packing. We recommend that you use brightly colored luggage tags, straps or other identifiers to help you locate you luggage upon arrival or to describe it in the event that it is lost. |
| Day of Departure |
| Flight Services |
| What to do if You Need Assistance |
Whether you purchased your airfare from Gate 1 Travel or from the airline directly, please bear in mind that Gate 1 Travel does not own nor operate the airline(s), nor the airport facilities where they operate. At times, flying can be a frustrating experience, especially when things do not go exactly as planned, and airline explanations can be confusing or even misleading. Should you face a problem, remain calm and seek assistance either from the airline directly or from Gate 1. Please be aware that in most cases, on the day of your flight(s), airlines pass responsibility for your reservation to their staff at the airport and it is not always possible for Gate 1 Travel to intervene on your behalf, either through our reservations system or directly with your airline. |
| Arrival & Departure |
| Arrival Procedures |
| Upon arrival, please complete immigration formalities if necessary and claim your luggage. If your program includes airport arrival transfers, check your voucher for specific instructions, as they vary with every destination. In most cases, you will be met after collecting your luggage or passing through Customs by the local representative who will be holding a Gate 1 Travel sign and/or a sign with your name on it. In some instances you will be instructed to walk a short distance to a transportation counter. The company's name and location will be printed on your voucher. If for any reason you do not connect with the Gate 1 transfer personnel, go to the Tourist Information Desk and ask them to page the Gate 1 Travel representative or phone the number on your voucher. If you are delayed due to lost luggage, phone the number on the voucher or have a companion exit the Customs Area to advise the transfer representative. |
| What To Do When Your Flight Is Delayed |
| Airlines do not share flight manifest information. Therefore, the only way we may learn of a delay or schedule change while you are traveling is from you, the traveler. The sooner you are able to contact one of our offices, the better we can respond. Please refer to the Emergency Assistance instructions on this same document. Gate 1 Travel is only able to guarantee pre-reserved arrival transfers for up to one hour from the scheduled time, no matter the cause. In case you are delayed for any reason, and are unable to follow the instructions on your voucher, please make independent transfer arrangements and retain your receipts. Unused tour services, including transfers and hotel nights are not refundable. Upon you return home you will need to contact your airline and/or insurance carrier to investigate the possibility of reimbursement for any unused tour services. |
| Departure Procedures |
| If your program includes departure transfers, instructions will be stated on your voucher or provided locally. |
| Transfers |
| Due to local traffic and other extenuating circumstances, we ask that you allow 30 minutes from your scheduled transfer time for our representative to arrive. This includes hotel, airport and cruise transfers. Such possible delays are taken into consideration in scheduling transfers and you should therefore have no concerns about arriving late for your tour, flight or cruise. For transfers from a hotel, let the hotel reception desk or concierge know that you are waiting for a transfer. In the case of a missed transfer, reimbursement for your out-of-pocket expenses will be considered provided you obtain a written statement from the hotel's front desk verifying the length of time you waited, and the time you left the hotel, and a receipt for your transportation with time and date. The cost of a transfer is more expensive than hiring a taxi, as a Gate 1 transfer necessarily includes round trip service, or 'dead-leg'. Often the places of call (airports, seaports, hotels) demand entrance and parking fees, where drivers may have to wait for up to an hour. Passengers comfortable hiring a taxi on their own and do not require assistance will save money. |
| Venice Transfers - Most transfers in Venice are provided by water taxi (occasionally transfers may be provided by car). Only those hotels with a canal mooring can be reached directly. For all others, the water taxi will drop off and pick up at the nearest mooring. It will then be necessary to walk to your hotel. In some cases the hotel may be several blocks away. Some mooring areas cannot be reached during high or low tide, heavy rain, or storms. In this event, the nearest available mooring will be used. Since few of the mooring areas have porters to assist with transporting luggage, it is strongly recommended that you travel with one piece of wheeled luggage that you are comfortable handling on your own. |
| Venice Airport Link Shared Water Taxi Transfers (Hotel to Airport) - The departure time & location of your transfer will be advised at least 24 hours prior to your departure. If you do not receive this information by that time, please call the Local Phone number provided on your voucher. Please be at the mooring location indicated at least 5 minutes prior to pick up time. Your pre-paid voucher is valid only for the Airport Link water taxi operated by BUCINTORO and only for the date indicated on your voucher and time communicated locally. Your pre-paid Gate 1 voucher is NOT valid for any other water taxi. Upon arrival at the airport, it will be necessary to walk approximately half a mile, with your luggage, from the dock to the terminal. |
| About Your Accommodations |
| Hotels |
| Gate 1 Travel has carefully selected each hotel based on overall quality, location, price, food, service, and cleanliness. All rooms are standard twin-bedded (two single beds) rooms with private facilities. Special requests such as bed types, smoking preference and connecting rooms are subject to availability. Room selection in all cases, unless otherwise reserved, is strictly at the discretion of the hotel's management on a run-of-house basis. Triple rooms consist of standard twin beds or one double bed plus a sofa/folding bed or cot for third person except in the U.S. and Canada, where triple rooms often consist of two double/queen beds for three persons; where available, a fee may be charged by the hotel for the addition of a cot/rollaway. The number of persons accommodated does not dictate the room size. Although available at most 4 and 5 star hotels, the use of air-conditioning abroad differs greatly from the United States, and is often shut down at night and from the end until the start of the summer months. Some lodges and accommodations in remote regions may not have all of the amenities, such as hairdryer, alarm clock and room service, that you might find in a larger hotel located in a city center. |
| Hotel Check-in/ Check-out |
| Hotel check-in time is generally not before 4:00 p.m. and check-out time is prior to noon. If you will be arriving early in the day or departing in the evening, hotels will usually allow you to store your luggage in their luggage room. Ask at the front desk if the hotel can check you in earlier, or let you stay later. |
| Venice City Tax - The authorities of Venice apply a city tax on all hotels. The tax requires a contribution of Euro 3.50 per person per night for a 3 star hotel, Euro 4.50 per person per night for 4 star hotels and Euro 5 per person per night for a 5 star hotel. It will be charged and collected by your hotel and is payable in cash only. We regret that we are currently unable to collect this tax in advance or include it in your price for customers who are traveling independently or who arrange independent pre- or post-tour stays on an escorted tour. This tax is included in the tour price for customers who are traveling on an escorted tour accompanied by a Tour Manager who is able to pay directly to the hotel on your behalf. Please note that our hotel ratings may differ from official star ratings which determine the tax level. |
| At Your Destination |
| Eco & Sustainable Tourism |
| We support global efforts to create a more eco-friendly world, intolerant of any forms of cruelty, abuse and intentional environmental destruction. To that end we ask that our clients maintain a watchful eye as they travel, and report any abuses they may encounter. One of the many benefits of tourism is the shared cultural knowledge and ultimate elimination of negative behavior through education. We rely on your good feedback to enable this element of symbiosis. As you travel and learn about foreign cultures, we ask first and foremost that you practice tolerance and respect for local customs. |
| Gratuities |
| Tipping is always a matter of personal discretion. For your convenience, please use the summary below as a guideline for recommended gratuity amounts. Gratuities may be paid in local currency or US dollar equivalent where accepted. Please be aware that tipping is considered by many locals to be a part of their normal remuneration and some may approach you for additional "compensation." There is no need to be intimidated by the request, nor should you feel pressured to pay more than recommended. If you become uncomfortable by any behavior you encounter, please advise your tour manager or phone our local office. Numbers are provided in your documents for your convenience. |
| Suggested Tipping: Escorted Tours |
Tour Manager (Coordinator; may or may not act as a guide): US $12 per person per day Driver (Provides chauffeur services and limited assistance with luggage) : US $7 per person per day, US $4 per half day Local Guide (Offers in-depth information at specific locations. There may be one or many guides along a tour program): US $7 per person per day of sightseeing, US $4 per half day Hotel porters and wait staff: Included |
| Italy - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. Restaurant bills often include a service charge. 5-10% is customary for good service. |
| Slovenia - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. Restaurant bills often include a service charge. |
| Croatia - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. Restaurant bills often include a service charge. |
| 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. |
| Optional Full Day Montenegro Tour from Dubrovnik |
| Please note that changes to the Schengen border rule may result in longer wait times at the border crossing between Croatia and Montenegro, thus creating a very long day. |
| 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 |
| Italy - The Euro is the currency of Italy. Italian bank opening hours are typically Monday through Friday, 9am to 1pm depending on the bank. Most Italian banks do not offer exchange service. For this reason, it is strongly recommended to acquire a small amount of Euros prior to arriving. ATM machines are a better option. |
| Slovenia - The Euro is the currency of Slovenia. |
| Croatia - The Euro is the currency of Croatia. |
| Shopping |
| Most people enjoy bringing home at least one souvenir from the countries they visit. However, some find any amount of shopping to be too much while others never find enough opportunities. We have built into our Escorted itineraries a few shopping stops at recommended spots. These stops are designed to enhance your experience by providing an opportunity to see first-hand quality locally crafted merchandise which you may not be able to find on your own. Shops are checked to ensure the quality and authenticity of the products they offer, and we limit guides from visiting other locations. In some cases, we plan these stops to provide an opportunity to use clean bathrooms and to stretch your legs. All shops want your satisfaction, and therefore in case of any misunderstanding they ask that you kindly submit your claim to us within one week of the item's receipt. Claims submitted later will be subject to each store’s policies. While shopping independently, we advise you to exercise care and common sense when making any purchase. Always get a formal receipt. And remember that, just like in this country, if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is! About Tax-Free Shopping Tax-Free Shopping allows shoppers to reclaim the VAT (Value-Added Tax) or GST (Goods and Services Tax) they have paid on their purchases in some foreign countries in accordance with restrictions and procedures as dictated by each country. Refund eligibility varies by country, but may require presenting a scanned copy of your passport at the time of purchase, a minimum amount spent, or providing original store receipts. For more details, check the respective country’s online website, with the shop salesperson, with your tour manager or at www.globalblue.com for specific country regulations and airport operation hours. Please keep in mind that you must apply for VAT refund in the airport of the country the items were purchased and allow enough time prior to your flight for the application. U.S. Customs & Shipping Charges You may carry items with a fair retail value totaling $800 into the U.S. Taxes may be applied to the next $1,000 worth of merchandise. U.S. Customs determines the value of your items, often honoring a genuine sales receipt. Items which are shipped home are always subject to duty when received in the U.S. (in addition to shipping charges). Some shops may offer to include shipping and duties in the price but this typically means shipping only to the customs facility closest to you and payment only of the export duties; you would still need to collect the item and pay U.S. import duties. Please be aware that it is illegal to import products made from endangered animal species. U.S. Customs & Border Protection will seize these items, as well as most furs, coral, tortoise shell, reptile skins, feathers, plants, and items made from animal skins. |
| Italy - Shops are generally open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 3:00 to 8:00 p.m., with some variations in Northern Italy, where the lunch break is shorter and shops close earlier. In the major cities, large stores and souvenir shops remain open throughout the day. Italy is renowned for its fashion industry, with fine clothes for men and women, lacework, jewelry, and leather accessories. Other quality goods include ceramics, gold and silver items, alabaster, woodwork, embroidery, glass and crystal ware. Major credit cards are usually accepted, though cash is preferred for small purchases. |
| Slovenia - Local specialties include bobbin lace, crystal, glassware, and wine. Business hours are Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. - 8 p.m., and Saturday 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. A value-added tax is now added to the purchase price of most goods. |
| Croatia - For the best prices, seek out local markets offering a wide assortment of traditional handicrafts such as embroidery, ceramics, and woodcarvings. In stores, lavender sachets, fine Adriatic red coral, and crystal ware are popular items. Shops are generally open all day from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., with shorter hours on Saturdays. |
| 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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| Caution: Tours of the Forum & Colosseum, Rome - Please note that there have been reports of street vendors wearing Gate 1 Travel identification tags who offer tours of the Colosseum in Rome. These vendors are not employed by Gate 1 and are in no way affiliated with the company. Gate 1 tours are offered only for purchase in advance of your trip to Italy, or locally by your Tour Manager. Passengers traveling independently are recommended to purchase their tours through official vendors and to avoid street sales. |
| Security at Major Sites - Please expect longer wait times at major sightseeing locations due to heightened security restrictions. These locations include, but are not limited to, the San Marco Basilica in Venice, the Accademia in Florence, and the Colosseum & Vatican in Rome. Bags of any kind are no longer allowed inside the San Marco Basilica and large bags/backpacks are restricted from the Colosseum. We suggest you to carry only necessary items (i.e. wallet, cell phone, camera) safely on your body and leave all other valuables in the hotel room safe when visiting these sites. |
| Local Emergency Phone Numbers |
Italy
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Slovenia
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Croatia
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| Languages |
| Italy - Italian is the local language. English is generally spoken in tourist areas. |
| Slovenia - Slovene is the local language. Croatian, Serbian, German, English, and Italian are also spoken by some. |
| Croatia - Croatian is the local language. Italian and limited English are generally spoken in tourist areas. |
| Electricity |
| Please note: The U.S. uses 120 volts and you can purchase a converter and transformer at most hardware stores for your 120V appliances. |
| Italy - The voltage used is 220 volts. |
| Slovenia - The voltage used is 220 volts. |
| Croatia - The voltage used is 220 volts. |
| Code of Conduct |
| Italy - Family and social ties are, broadly speaking, stronger in Italy than in other Western European countries, and the Roman Catholic church retains a strong cultural influence. Common courtesies should be practiced. Casual dress is appropriate, but beachwear should be confined to the beach and poolside. Conservative clothing should be worn when visiting religious buildings, meaning legs and shoulders should be covered. While the cities are very safe, pickpocketing can occur. Avoid conspicuous expensive jewelry and be mindful of your wallet or handbag. Even though many Italians smoke, smoking is prohibited in all public buildings, public transport, cinemas and restaurants. |
| Slovenia - Dress should be casual, but conservative, except at formal dinners and upscale hotels or restaurants. At restaurants, bread will often be brought and charged even if not requested. This is customary and should not be disputed. Slovenes are known for their friendliness and hospitality to foreigners and even new acquaintances may offer a drink. |
| Croatia - Shaking hands is a standard form of greeting and saying goodbye. Casual dress is appropriate and normal courtesies should be observed. Smoking is prohibited on public transportation and in theaters and public offices. |
| Meals & Dietary Requests |
| Included meals are based on the restaurant's buffet or set menu. Beverages are not included, unless specifically stated. Although special diets like Vegetarian and Vegan are relatively commonplace in the USA, much of the world's menu options are more provincial. Please do not expect to find the variety of food selection outside of the local norm. Every effort will be made to honor special dietary requests selected no later than 5 days prior to departure in the passenger details section of your reservation. In addition, we recommend that you make preferences known to your tour manager upon arrival, and at each hotel/restaurant. |
| Holidays |
| On public holidays, there may be reduced public transportation, as well as limited hours or closures of attractions, shops and restaurants. |
| Holidays - Italy |
Holidays 2023 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 6: Epiphany Apr 9: Easter Sunday Apr 10: Easter Monday Apr 25: Liberation Day May 1: Labor Day Jun 2: Republic Day Aug 15: Assumption of the Virgin Nov 1: All Saints Day Dec 8: Immaculate Conception Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Please note that in addition, local feast days are held in honor of town patron saints, generally without closure of shops and offices. These include: Parma: Jan 13-14 (St. Hilary of Poitiers), Aug 16-17 (St. Roch) & May 5 (St. Honoratus) Catania: Feb 3-5; Aug 17 (St. Agatha) Sorrento: Feb 14 (St. Antoninus) Agrigento: Feb 25 (St. Gerland) & Jun 18 (St. Calogerus) Como: Apr 2; Aug 31 (St. Abbondio) Ragusa: Apr 23 (St. George) Venice: Apr 25 (St. Mark) & Nov 11 (St. Martin's Day) Treviso: Apr 27 (St. Liberalis) & Mar 27; Aug 1; Aug 22 (St. Augusta) Baveno: Jun 19 (Sts. Gervasius & Protasius) Matera: Jun 20 (St. John) & Jul 2 (St. Madonna della Bruna) Florence, Genoa & Turin: Jun 24 (St John the Baptist) Amalfi: Jun 27; Nov 30 (St. Andrew) Rome: Jun 29 (St. Peter & Paul) Siena: Jul 2 & Aug 16, Palio horserace Taormina: Jul 8-9 (St. Pancras) Palermo: Jul 15 (St. Rosalia) Santa Margherita Ligure: July 20 (St. Margaret of Antiochia) Lecce: Aug 26 (St. Orontius) Naples: Sep 19 (St. Gennaro) Bologna: Oct 4 (St. Petronius) Trieste: Nov 3 (St. Giusto) Montecatini: Dec 4 (St. Barbara) Bari: Dec 6, May 7-9 (St. Nicholas) Milan & Stresa: Dec 7 (St. Ambrose) Siracusa: Dec 13 (St. Lucy) Holidays 2024 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 6: Epiphany Mar 31: Easter Sunday Apr 1: Easter Monday Apr 25: Liberation Day May 1: Labor Day Jun 2: Republic Day Aug 15: Assumption of the Virgin Mary / Ferragosto Nov 1: All Saints Day Dec 8: Immaculate Conception Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Please note that in addition, local feast days are held in honor of town patron saints, generally without closure of shops and offices. These include: Parma: Jan 13-14 (St. Hilary of Poitiers), Aug 16-17 (St. Roch) Catania: Feb 3-5 & Aug 17 (St. Agatha) Sorrento: Feb 14 (St. Antoninus) Agrigento: Feb 25 (St. Gerland) & July 7-July 14 (St. Calogerus) Como: Aug 31 (St. Abbondio) Ragusa: May 26 (St. George) Venice: Apr 25 (St. Mark) & Nov 11 (St. Martin's Day) Treviso: Apr 27 (St. Liberalis); Mar 27, Aug 1 & Aug 22 (St. Augusta) Baveno: Jun 19 (Sts. Gervasius & Protasius) Matera: Jun 20 (St. John) & Jul 2 (St. Madonna della Bruna) Florence, Genoa & Turin: Jun 24 (St John the Baptist) Amalfi: Jun 27; Nov 30 (Sant' Andrea) Rome: Jun 29 (St. Peter & Paul) Siena: Jul 2 & Aug 16, Palio horserace Taormina: Jul 8-9 (St. Pancras) Palermo: Jul 14-15 (St. Rosalia) Santa Margherita Ligure: July 20 (St. Margaret of Antiochia) Lecce: Aug 26 (St. Orontius) Naples: Sep 19 (St. Gennaro) Bologna: Oct 4 (St. Petronius) Trieste: Nov 3 (St. Giusto) Montecatini: Dec 4 (St. Barbara) Bari: Dec 6 & May 7-9 (St. Nicholas) Milan & Stresa: Dec 7 (St. Ambrose) Siracusa: Dec 13 (St. Lucy) |
| Holidays - Slovenia |
Holidays 2023 Jan 1-2: New Year's Day, observed Feb 8: Prešeren Day Apr 9: Easter Sunday Apr 10: Easter Monday Apr 27: Day of Uprising Against Occupation May 1-2: Labor Day/May Day, observed May 28: Whit Sunday Aug 15: Assumption of Mary Oct 31: Reformation Day Nov 1: Remembrance Day Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: Independence and Unity Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve Holidays 2024 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 2: New Year Holiday Feb 8: Prešeren Day Mar 31: Easter Sunday Apr 1: Easter Monday Apr 27: Day of Uprising Against Occupation May 1: Labor Day/May Day May 2: Labor Day Holiday May 19: Whit Sunday Aug 15: Assumption of Mary Oct 31: Reformation Day Nov 1: Remembrance Day Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: Independence and Unity Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve |
| Holidays - Croatia |
Holidays 2023 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 6: Feast of the Epiphany Apr 9: Easter Apr 10: Easter Monday May 1: Labor Day/May Day May 30: Statehood Day Jun 8: Corpus Christi Jun 22: Day of Anti-Fascist Struggle Aug 5: Victory Day Aug 15: Feast of the Assumption Oct 8: Independence Day Nov 1: All Saints' Day Nov 18: Remembrance Day Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Holidays 2024 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 6: Feast of the Epiphany Mar 31: Easter Apr 1: Easter Monday May 1: Labor Day/May Day May 30: Statehood Day May 30: Corpus Christi Jun 22: Day of Anti-Fascist Struggle Aug 5: Victory Day Aug 15: Feast of the Assumption Nov 1: All Saints' Day Nov 18: Remembrance Day Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day |
| Papal Audiences, Vatican City - Italy |
| General audiences with His Holiness the Pope are usually held once a week (Wednesdays at 11 a.m.) in Vatican City. They may be held inside the Basilica itself or in the hall of the Papal Audiences (Aula Paolo VI, Seating 7000), and in summer in Saint Peter's Square or in the papal summer residence at Castel Gandolfo. Please note that Castel Gandolfo is located approximately 20 miles south-east of Rome, not in Vatican City. Catholics are requested to have a letter of introduction from their parish priest. For this audience women should dress modestly, with arms and head covered. Dress should be dark or subdued in color. Men are requested to wear a tie and jacket. |
| New Venice Visitor Tax Regulation - It was recently announced that the city of Venice will be implementing an entrance tax of 10 Euros per person for tourists visiting the city for the day. In most cases, the tax will be included in the cost of the transportation to access the city center, including cruise, taxi, or public transportation. However, there may be instances where visitors will need to pay the tax upon arrival. We regret that we are currently unable to collect this tax in advance. Due to the uncertainty of this new regulation the information above is subject to change. |
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Dalmatian Isles, Croatia & Slovenia, October 2022
Fabulous. A truly memorable trip, full of wonderful sights, new friends whom we hope to travel with again, interesting historical information. All in all, GREAT. Surmounted by Pieter our manager, who was so informative, educational, friendly and humorous. Then there was our driver Zlecko, who safely took us on our journey, through some seemingly perilous curvy roads. If we could travel with them again we would. Looking forward to our next rip with Gate 1.
Norman S.Dalmatian Isles, Croatia & Slovenia, September 2022
I want you to know that our trip was wonderful and the reason it was wonderful was because of our tour manager whose name was Pero. Not who you said in this evaluation. He made the tour wonderful. He was on top of everything and always considerate of us. Please give him the credit that is due because the 11 of us had a fantastic, cohesive, tour because of him. he made this is the best of the five tours we have taken with Gate 1 so far. Plus we do have one scheduled for next September thank you.
Marlene H.Dalmatian Isles, Croatia & Slovenia, June 2022
Our travel manager and coach driver were excellent! Edo could not have been more knowledgeable, patient, kind, funny and enjoyable to be around. We always felt safe on the roads with our driver and the bus was very comfortable and clean. We are looking forward to our next opportunity to travel with Gate One.
Meredith H.Dalmatian Isles, Croatia & Slovenia, April 2022
I would just like to add a comment to reinforce the "radio button" survey. Even though I had high expectations, this trip, and especially our tour manager, Biljana , FAR exceeded our expectations. Her knowledge, demeanor and management skills were beyond reproach. She transformed challenges into entertaining outcomes and turned a beautiful and amazing part of the world into a series of unforgettable experiences. I have usually planned my own trips, but if other Gate1 tour managers have even a portion of Biljana's knowledge and skills, I am more than sold on the idea of taking other trips with Gate1.
Robert F.Dalmatian Isles, Croatia & Slovenia, October 2021
The entire trip to the Dalmatian Islands, Croatia and Slovenia was so captivating, richly described by Edo P, our Tour Manager, he was more like a buddy, full of humor, had the historical details fully covered, was hilarious, kept us safe, on track, on schedule and always went that extra mile to lend us a hand when climbing steps, found my hearing aid batteries and arranged for hot water kettle whenever needed. The dinners were opulent and extraordinary. The driver, Mr. Davor and Edo P work as a very well orchestrated team that I have never seen before. Its Edo who is the face of Gate 1 to us. Its the simple things he did that made this trip the most remembered trip. I have had many Gate 1 trips this one was the overall best. Thank to Edo. He is your finest asset. We may go to Croatia and Slovenia again because of Edo.
Parvez S.Dalmatian Isles, Croatia & Slovenia, September 2021
This message is related to the outstanding service during the recent Adriatic tour. With a number of previous tours, through Gate 1 and other tour providers, the professionalism and dedication of the tour director Josip was exemplary and beyond comparison to other tour guides. He was very engaged with everyone on the tour and took personal responsibility to make sure everyone was pleased with the agenda and the events. He absolutely went out of his way to resolve any issues and to be very engaged throughout the trip.
John H.Adriatic Coast from Dubrovnik to Athens, November 2019
This was we felt, one of the very best Gate 1 trips ever. Our guide was over the top and the comradely of our group was warming. The sights, the stops, the history, educational aspect and the hotels were first class. We have friends that want to take this same trip next year. We look forward to our next Discovery trip!
Carol S. Supply, NCDalmatian Isles, Croatia & Slovenia, September 2019
Fabulous. Exceeded our expectations. Gate 1 Travel continues to provide us with wonderful tours.
Peter H. Clinton, CTDalmatian Isles, Croatia & Slovenia, August 2019
Outstanding! Great tour, great guide, great group.
Jacqueline D. Avon, OHDalmatian Isles, Croatia & Slovenia, June 2019
We loved our trip- the countries we visited, the sights we saw, the guides we had in various cities, our driver Bronco and our exceptional tour guide Sandra!
Cheryl T. Scottsdale, AZDalmatian Isles, Croatia & Slovenia, May 2018
This trip was fabulous. Croatia and Slovena are beautiful and relaxing places. This was a small group of 20 people who were very friendly...Gate 1 allows for just enough free time and unlike other tour companies we did not spend a majority of the vacation on the bus getting from one place to the next. 2+ nights in some places added to the feeling of seeing a place. Hotels were all really close to center of things. Our hotel in Venice was literally a 3 minute walk to St. Mark’s Square. Our tour guide was funny, friendly and had a wealth of knowledge about all the places we went to. Local guides added variety to the tours. Even our bus driver engaged with us in a funny and friendly way. Great trip!
Patrice G. New City, NYDalmatian Isles, Croatia & Slovenia, June 2016
All went very smoothly without any worries at all. The tour leader Sandra was outstanding, the group of 14 was really nice, the bus driver was very calm, capable and professional. All of the hotels and local tours were great too. This was our first Gate 1 tour and I would certainly recommend it and do another in the future.
Linda L. NSW, AustraliaDalmatian Isles, Croatia & Slovenia, May 2016
We had a wonderful time and we love Gate 1. I chose this trip over other tour company trips and also over the other Gate 1 Croatia trips because it went to the islands of Hvar and Korcula. My sister and I fell in love with these islands and of the ferry rides between them, along with all of the places the tour had on its itinerary. We loved it so much that we are talking about doing this exact trip again. Hopefully Gate 1 will offer this same tour in the future. The most important thing we learned about Gate 1 was that your tour gave us time to explore the places we visited. With Globus and Insight these trips usually gave us one hour. This hour is supposed to be enough time for a guided tour, having something to eat, going to the bathroom, which usually involved a wait, browse alone in the city and go shopping along with a 20 minute walk back to the bus, which is absolutely ridiculous. The bottom line being you we're lucky to get to go to the bathroom in the time between the guided tour ending and heading back to the bus. It leaves you feeling that you have been cheated. This trip we came away with the feeling that we really did get to spend time and explore these towns on our own. Also, the tour director we had was incredible, and he really added to the enjoyment of the trip.
Kerry C. Reno, NVDalmatian Isles, Croatia & Slovenia, April 2016
We arrived home Sunday morning and are still reminiscing about the Dalmatian Coast trip. Our Yuge was perfect, giving us history, keeping track of our safety, making everything easy and the area guides were great. I have already been looking at other Gate 1 trips for next year! We met very nice people from all over, both in our tour group and our country hosts. Thank you.
Elaine W. Olympia, WA