Grand Circle Travel - GRAND CIRCLE TRAVEL PLANNING GUIDE The Great National Parks: Yellowstone, Grand
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GRAND CIRCLE TRAVEL PLANNING GUIDE
The Great National Parks: Yellowstone, Grand
Teton & Mount Rushmore
2021
Learn how to personalize your experience on this vacation
®
Grand Circle Travel
Worldwide Discovery at an Extraordinary Value
1
Grand Circle Travel ®
347 Congress Street, Boston, MA 02210
Dear Traveler,
While we may not be physically able to travel at the moment, the act of planning—or even just
dreaming—always gives my spirits a boost.
At Grand Circle, we’re already planning for the day when we can resume our travels. We’re working
closely with our Program Directors and regional offices around the world to implement a number
of measures to give you greater peace of mind—because your health and safety is our top priority.
Inside, you’ll learn more about the NEW specific precautions we are taking.
I hope this Grand Circle Travel Planning Guide inspires you to join us on our The Great National
Parks: Yellowstone, Grand Teton & Mount Rushmore vacation, to go beyond the iconic sites and
into the true heart of the American West thanks to our groups of no more than 42 travelers
(with an average of 30). Plus, our American Program Director will reveal their country’s hidden
wonders and help us discover its essence like only an insider can. And our local regional office in
Boston is staffed with an experienced team of associates ready to help in case any unexpected
circumstances arise.
Throughout our explorations, we’ll meet local people to get an intimate glimpse into the real the
American West, not just a surface view. Reflect upon a controversial chapter of American history
during a visit to Heart Mountain Relocation Center, the site of a former Japanese-American
internment camp in Cody. In Rapid City, you’ll also learn more about the local indigenous way of
life during a traditional Native American dance ceremony. Plus, a portion of our proceeds goes
toward the charitable efforts of Grand Circle Foundation—see inside for more details on how your
travel dollar helps make the world a better place.
We understand that no two people are the same. That’s why more than 80% of our travelers take
advantage of the freedom to personalize their experience. Join the 21% of travelers who extend
their time abroad. Add the pre-trip extension to Colorado: Denver, post-trip extension to New
Mexico: Santa Fe, or both of these extensions to your national parks vacation.
I hope you find this Grand Circle Travel Planning Guide helpful. If you have any further questions,
don’t hesitate to contact one of our Travel Counselors at 1-800-221-2610.
Warm regards,
Harriet R. Lewis
Vice Chairman
Overseas Adventure Travel
2
WHAT’S INSIDE
TRIP SUMMARY
Health & Safety Measures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
It’s Included . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Departure Dates and Prices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Freedom to Personalize Your Experience . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
DETAILED DAY-TO-DAY ITINERARY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
ESSENTIAL TRAVEL INFORMATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24
Travel Documents & Entry Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . N/A
Rigors, Vaccines & General Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Money Matters: Local Currency & Tipping Guidelines . . . . . . . 29
Air, Optional Tours & Staying in Touch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Packing: What to Bring & Luggage Limits . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Climate & Average Temperatures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
About Your Destinations: Culture, Etiquette & More . . . . . . . . 41
Demographics & History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Resources: Suggested Reading & Movies . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
MAP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51
3
What to Expect When
We Travel Again
Health and safety measures on our vacations
The health and safety of our travelers is always our #1 priority and we understand travelers are concerned about
traveling abroad in light of the unprecedented crisis we are currently facing. For that reason, we wanted to share
with you the specific measures we are taking on our Grand Circle vacations to support social distancing and give
our travelers greater peace of mind when we begin to travel again. We are working with our 36 regional offices
and more than 2,500 regional associates and Program Directors around the world, as well as listening to
feedback from our travelers to create and update these new health and safety protocols. We will be addressing
each of our trips and making specific updates to each itinerary to ensure the safety of our travelers.
TRAVELER SCREENING PROCESS & SAFETY FACE COVERINGS & HAND SANITIZER
MEASURES PRIOR TO ARRIVAL IN FIRST • N95 face masks (or the equivalent in the country), gloves,
DESTINATION ON ADVENTURE and hand sanitizer will be provided to all travelers
• Your Program Director will contact you approximately 3 throughout the trip, however travelers can bring
weeks prior to departure to introduce himself or herself their own preferred face covering and hand sanitizer
and provide you with specific information regarding from home.
updated safety and health measures and protocols you
can expect on your trip.
WHISPERS HEADSETS
• Whispers will be provided for all included features and
• The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has activities to support social distancing—and remain with
updated its security screening procedures, including each traveler for the entire trip.
increasing the distance between travelers as they enter
security check points, requiring travelers to return to the • Whispers will be thoroughly sanitized before the trip
area outside of security if prohibited items are found, and begins and alcohol wipes will be provided for personal
having travelers scan their own boarding passes. daily sanitizing.
• Many airlines and airports have specific safety INCLUDED FEATURES & ACTIVITIES
procedures they are following, so travelers are • All included features and activities to popular locations
encouraged to check with their airline prior to their or sites will be rearranged to avoid large crowds—this
adventure and arrive at the airport early as these may mean that we will arrive early or visit the location
updated protocols will add more time to check in and later in the day.
security check points.
• Travelers will be broken into smaller groups as needed
TRAVELER SCREENING UPON ARRIVAL AT for Home-Hosted meals to support social distancing.
FIRST DESTINATION ON ADVENTURE
• Our local regional offices have carefully selected
• All travelers will have their temperature checked at the
included features and activities with a focus on the
airport by a Grand Circle representative or Program
safety of our travelers, however all included features and
Director using a non-contact infrared temperature
activities are optional, so travelers can choose whether
scanner before transferring to the first accommodation
to participate in an activity or explore on their own.
or lodging on their adventure.
4
• Our Program Directors will offer alternate options if a • All trips will feature smaller restaurants to support
traveler chooses not to participate in an included feature. social distancing and whenever possible, our small group
will be the only diners present during the meal.
LOCAL TRANSPORTATION & COACHES
• All local transportation and coaches will operate at • To promote social distancing when dining in local
approximately half the vehicle’s capacity. restaurants, our group may be separated into smaller
groups and each dine in a different restaurant.
• All coaches will be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized
with disinfectant before each use. • Items usually shared, like bread and butter or salt and
pepper, will be served to each person individually
• The driver will have his or her temperature upon request.
checked daily.
SCREENING PROCESS & SAFETY MEASURES
ACCOMMODATIONS & LODGING FOR PROGRAM DIRECTORS
• Our local regional offices have carefully selected your • Health screenings of Program Directors, including a
accommodations by city or town on our trips because of COVID-19 test, will be completed before joining the trip.
their high standards for quality.
• All Program Directors will be trained on health and
• In some instances, we have changed accommodations safety protocols to follow during the trip.
or lodgings to better ensure the health and safety of
our travelers. We will continue to make updates to our • All Program Directors will check his or her
accommodations and lodgings as needed to ensure the temperature daily.
highest quality of service and safety for our travelers.
• Your Program Director will be available to you 24/7, with
• Our local regional offices will contact each the support of our local regional office.
accommodation or lodging prior to our small group’s
arrival to ensure enhanced safety and health protocols • Your Program Director will be prepared to make
for cleaning and sanitization of rooms, public areas, and adjustments to the itinerary as needed during the
elevators have been properly followed. adventure.
• Your Program Director will contact you shortly after We will do all we can to ensure our travelers’ safety and
check in to ensure you are comfortable with the health while on our vacations, but we need your help.
cleanliness and sanitization of your room. We expect travelers to follow best health and hygiene
practices to prevent the spread of illness as well—from
• The staff at all of our accommodations and lodgings washing your hands regularly, covering your mouth when
will have 24/7 access to a doctor or medical staff, should coughing or sneezing, and following social distancing
medical assistance be needed. guidelines. By working together, we can create a safer
travel experience for everyone.
LOCAL RESTAURANTS
• Whenever possible, meals in restaurants will be
individually plated and served.
• Buffet breakfasts will still be available and the dining
staff will follow best health and hygiene practices to
ensure food safety and prevent the spread of illness.
Learn about all of the safety measures we are implementing on our vacations at
www.gct.com/health-safety-guidelines
5
The Great National Parks: Yellowstone,
Grand Teton & Mount Rushmore
Utah: Salt Lake City | Wyoming: Jackson Hole, Cody, Sheridan | Montana: West Yellowstone
| South Dakota: Rapid City
Countries: 1 | Cities: 6 National Parks: 6
Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
IT’S INCLUDED
13 days from $3495
Including airfare from Denver • Choose to purchase Grand Circle’s airfare, and your airport transfers,
government taxes, fees, and airline fuel surcharges are included. Or, make
Travel from only $269 per day your own air arrangements
• Accommodations for 12 nights in comfortable rooms with private baths
13 days from $2995 • 21 meals: 12 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 5 dinners
Tour only
• 13 included features: 11 guided tours and 2 exclusive Discovery Series
Travel from only $231 per day
events: Japanese-American Confinement Site • Native American cultural
experience
Single Supplement: FREE
• Exclusive services of a local Grand Circle Program Director (assigned to no
more than 42 travelers)
MAXIMIZE YOUR • Gratuities on your main trip for local guides and motorcoach drivers
DISCOVERIES & VALUE
• Personal headset on all included and optional tours
OPTIONAL EXTENSIONS • Private motorcoach land travel
Denver & the Rocky Mountains • Baggage handling for 1 piece of luggage per person, including tips
3 nights pre-trip from $1395
• 5% Frequent Traveler Credit toward your next trip—an average of $201
New Mexico: Santa Fe & Taos
3 nights post-trip from $1195
To get a richer view of the Included Features on this trip,
watch our Trip Itinerary video at www.gct.com/npt2021
The Great National Parks: Yellowstone, Grand Teton & Mount Rushmore
6
THE GREAT NATIONAL PARKS: RISK-FREE BOOKING POLICY: RESERVE WITH
CONFIDENCE—NOW THROUGH 12/31/21
YELLOWSTONE, GRAND TETON We will waive any change fees if you transfer to another departure date for
any reason—up until 24 hours prior to departure.
& MOUNT RUSHMORE See details at www.gct.com/riskfree-booking.
2021 DATES & PRICES
DEPART FROM: MAY JUNE JULY-AUGUST SEPTEMBER
Denver $3495 $3695 $3595 $3795
Baltimore, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Detroit,
Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, Minneapolis,
Newark, Orlando, Philadelphia, Phoenix, $3595 $3795 $3695 $3895
Portland, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle,
Tampa, Washington, DC
Atlanta, New York $3695 $3895 $3795 $3995
Additional departure cities are available. Upgrade to Business Class may be available for the international portion of your flight. Call for details.
MAY JUNE JULY-AUGUST SEPTEMBER
Land tour only $2995 $3195 $3095 $3295
NPT2021
Prices are per person. Airfare prices include government taxes, fees, and airline fuel surcharges. All prices and availability are effective as of the date of
this publication, and are subject to change without notice. Standard Terms & Conditions apply, please visit our website: www.gct.com/tc. Every effort
has been made to produce this information accurately. We reserve the right to correct errors.
For specific departure dates, current availability, and detailed pricing, visit www.gct.com/npt2021pricing
SAVE UP TO 10% WITH OUR FREE SINGLE SUPPLEMENTS
on your main trip and extensions. SHARE YOUR LOVE OF TRAVEL
GOOD BUY PLAN
New travelers you refer will instantly
The earlier you reserve your departure We don’t charge you more for your save $100, and you’ll earn increasing
and pay in full, the more you’ll save—up own room. rewards—up to a FREE trip!
to 10%—plus, you’ll lock in your price.
Each departure has limited solo space For details, visit www.gct.com/va
For details, visit www.gct.com/gbd available—call today.
Publication Date: 1/6/21
1-800-221-2610 • www.gct.com/npt2021
7
Freedom to Personalize Your Experience
Your Choice, Your Trip, Your Way
Extending the length of your stay in a destination can improve your overall travel experience—and allow you to seek out
even more eye-opening cultural interactions. Your local Program Director will help to ensure you’re getting the personalized
experiences you’re looking for. In fact, 85% of our travelers are personalizing their experience in more than 85 countries.
Call us at 1-800-221-2610 to discuss personalizing your vacation today or visit us online at www.gct.com/
personalize-npt2021.
Maximize Your Time & Value: 55% of our travelers Back-to-Back Trips: 90% of our travelers who
choose to take a pre- or post-trip extension combined two vacations rated it excellent
See more of the region and maximize your value by One of the most common vacations travelers combine with
taking advantage of your already-included airfare. On this one is Southwest National Parks: Arches, Zion, Bryce &
this vacation, you can choose between Denver & the Rocky the Grand Canyon. If you’re already on the road, why not
Mountains and New Mexico: Santa Fe & Taos. see more of the region and avoid another flight? Plus, you'll
save $250 per person when you reserve two trips right after
“Break Away” Options: 30% of our travelers choose one another.
to arrive early or stay late in their destination
Before or after your main tour or trip extension, "break Air Options: More than 50% of our travelers
away" anywhere you'd like to go to do more exploring customize their flights
entirely on your own. We make every effort to provide you with non-stop
flights and acceptable connection times to and from
Please note: Our Travel Counselors can help you plan your
your destination. You also have several other ways you can
airfare if you'd like to "break away," however since this option
personalize your air itinerary, including choosing your
is completely on your own, you will need to plan your own
departure city and airline, upgrading your seat, and more.
accommodations, meals, tours, and transfers.
Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
The Great National Parks: Yellowstone, Grand Teton & Mount Rushmore
8
The Great National Parks:
Yellowstone, Grand Teton & Mount Rushmore
2021
13-Day Land Tour
EXTEND YOUR TRIP
PRE-TRIP
Denver & the Rocky Mountains
POST-TRIP
New Mexico: Santa Fe & Taos
Your Day-to-Day Itinerary
9
GRAND CIRCLE TRAVEL
Grand Circle Travel, founded in 1958 to serve the American Association for Retired Persons (AARP), is
the leader in international travel and discovery for Americans over age 50. Grand Circle vacations have
been recommended by The New York Times, Conde Nast Traveler, The Los Angeles Times, Travel + Leisure,
The Wall Street Journal, Arthur Frommer’s Budget Travel, and others. But our most impressive reviews
come from our travelers. More than two million people have traveled with us, and the overwhelming
majority say they’d gladly do so again.
LAND TOUR
During your Grand Circle vacation, you’ll have reliable assistance available at all times from an on-site
ORFDO*UDQG&LUFOH7UDYHO3URJUDP'LUHFWRUWKURXJKRXW\RXUWULS+HRUVKHLVͬXHQWLQ(QJOLVKDQGFDQ
give you an inside perspective on your destinations. You will also be supported along the way by local
tour guides, who lead you expertly through particular sites and cities.
Many Program Directors are graduates of professional education programs for travel guides. In
addition, they receive specialized training directly from Grand Circle, based on what we’ve learned
from past travelers about how to make the trip most enjoyable. Your Program Director offers both
a deep knowledge of the region and a commitment to make this a very pleasant, informative, and
rewarding travel experience for you.
He or she will provide sightseeing trips, handle all travel details, reserve optional tours you choose to
take, oversee your Discovery Series events, and provide any other assistance you may need.
INCLUDED IN YOUR PRICE
» Choose to purchase Grand Circle’s airfare, » ([FOXVLYHVHUYLFHVRIDORFDOGrand
and your airport transfers, government Circle Program Director (assigned to no
taxes, fees, and airline fuel surcharges more than 42 travelers)
are included. Or, make your own air » Gratuities on your main trip for local guides
arrangements and motorcoach drivers
» Accommodations for 12 nights in » Personal headset on all included and
comfortable rooms with private baths optional tours
» 21 meals: 12 breakfasts, 4 lunches, » Private motorcoach land travel
and 5 dinners
» Baggage handling for 1 piece of luggage per
» 13 included features: 11 guided tours person, including tips
and 2 exclusive Discovery Series events:
» 5% Frequent Traveler Credit toward your
-DSDQHVH$PHULFDQ&RQͫQHPHQW6LWH̦
next trip—an average of $201
Native American cultural experience
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
10WHAT THIS TRIP IS LIKE
GROUP SIZE
» A maximum of 42 travelers, led by a local
Grand Circle Program Director
PACING
» 6 locations in 13 days, including 1
single-night stay
» 6 days feature 6-8 hours of travel by
motorcoach
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
» Walk 1 mile unassisted and participate
in 3-4 hours of physical activities daily,
including uneven walking surfaces such
as unpaved paths, steep hills, stairs,
and stones
» We reserve the right for Program Directors
to restrict participation, or in some
circumstances send travelers home, if their
limitations impact the group’s experience
TERRAIN & TRANSPORTATION
» 5 full days at altitudes between
5,000–9,000 feet
» Uneven surfaces, including unpaved trails,
steep inclines, steps, and rocky terrain
» Travel by 55-seat motorcoach
CLIMATE
» Daytime temperatures range from 50-92°F
during touring season
» June-August are the warmest months
» Nighttime temperatures can fall to 30-50°F
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
11The Great National Parks: Yellowstone, Grand
Teton & Mount Rushmore
2021
Epic, rugged, and wild, few things embody the bold American spirit as fully as our great national parks—a
uniquely American concept. Experience America’s natural bounty on this 13-day journey, focused on our
Northwest national parks. Explore the expansive wilderness and geothermal wonderland of Yellowstone—the
ͫUVWQDWLRQDOSDUNLQWKHZRUOGDQGVWLOORQHRILWVPRVWHQFKDQWLQJ̜GHOYHLQWRWKHKLVWRU\RIWKHFRXQWU\̞V
lawless frontier days, admire the mountain majesty of Grand Teton, and marvel at the natural and
PDQPDGHWUHDVXUHVWKDWDERXQGDWVRPHRIWKHPRVWPDJQLͫFHQWVHWWLQJVRQ(DUWKIURPWKHDXVWHUHIDFHVRI
Mount Rushmore to the ever-changing landscape of the Dakota Badlands.
EXTEND YOUR TRIP
Denver & the Rocky Mountains
3 NIGHTS PRE-TRIP
Add another national park to your journey and experience the grand majesty of the Rockies as you explore the
pristine wilderness of Rocky Mountain National Park, an alpine playground of crystal lakes, pine forests, lush
meadows and snowcapped peaks. Then explore Colorado’s cosmopolitan capital, a trendy modern city which
still retains some of its small mountain town ambiance.
New Mexico: Santa Fe & Taos
3 NIGHTS POST-TRIP
From the earthen villages of Native Americans to the plazas built by Spanish conquistadores, New Mexico’s
dramatic history unfolds on this post-trip extension as you take in the laid-back pace of Taos and the Spanish
SXHEORͬDYRURI6DQWH)H:LWKSOXQJLQJJRUJHVDQGUHGVWRQHPHVDVDV\RXUEDFNGURS\RX̞OOEHVZHSWDZD\
by the dramatic beauty of the rugged Southwest.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
12DETAILED ITINERARY
Day 1 Arrive Salt Lake City, Utah Lunch: On your own. The city boasts many
excellent restaurants, and your Program
̦ Destination: Salt Lake City
Director will be happy to suggest a few if you’re
̦ Accommodations: Little America Hotel
looking for recommendations.
or similar
Morning/Afternoon/Evening: Travel to Afternoon: Free for your own discoveries—ask
Salt Lake City today, with your arrival time your Program Director for recommendations.
depending on your departure city. Transfer to
Dinner: Get to know your fellow travelers
your hotel, check out your surroundings with
during an included Welcome Dinner at a local
your Program Director on an orientation walk,
restaurant.
and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.
Lunch and dinner are on your own today. Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
rest of your evening as you wish—ask your
Day 2 Explore Salt Lake City Program Director for recommendations.
̦ Destination: Salt Lake City
Day 3 Salt Lake City • Jackson
̦ Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Hole, Wyoming
̦ Accommodations: Little America Hotel
or similar ̦ Destination: Jackson Hole
̦ Included Meals: Breakfast
Breakfast: At the hotel.
̦ Accommodations: Snow King Resort Hotel
Morning: Gather with your fellow travelers or similar
DQG3URJUDP'LUHFWRUIRUD:HOFRPH%ULHͫQJ
Activity Note: Today’s overland transfer to
about what you’ll experience together over the
Jackson Hole, Wyoming will take approximately
coming days, and then set out on an included
7 hours, including stops along the way.
tour of Salt Lake City, site of the 2002 Winter
Olympics. Breakfast: At the hotel.
On your tour, you’ll visit Temple Square, world Morning: Begin your transfer by motorcoach to
headquarters of the Mormon Church. The Jackson Hole, Wyoming.
massive temple, with its six spires, dominates
Lunch: Stop along the way at scenic Bear Lake
the square, which also features a monument
on the border of Utah and Idaho, where you’ll
to Brigham Young and the “Three Witnesses
have time to seek out lunch on your own.
Monument.” The latter memorial honors the
WKUHHPHQZKRWHVWLͫHGWKDWDQDQJHOVKRZHG Afternoon: Continue on your way to Jackson
them the golden plates from which the Book of Hole, arriving at your hotel late this afternoon.
Mormon was translated. Marvel at the awesome Long before the pioneers came west, the rock
Tabernacle, dedicated in 1893, and famous for formations of the Grand Tetons presided over
its amazing acoustics and Mormon Tabernacle a traditional summer home for the Native
Choir. You’ll also stop to admire the eponymous Americans. When the early “mountain men”
Great Salt Lake, the largest saltwater lake in the ventured out this way, the area became a
western hemisphere. destination for hunters and fur trappers.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
137KHͫUVWSHUPDQHQWVHWWOHUVDUULYHGLQ Afternoon: Free for your own discoveries—ask
establishing Jackson Hole as a cattle-ranching your Program Director for recommendations.
center. The skiing industry took off here in A shuttle service is available to transport you
the 1930s and Jackson Hole remains a winter between your hotel and downtown Jackson.
sports mecca to this day. In the summer, this
Dinner: Included at a local restaurant.
year-round resort offers hiking, river rafting,
camping, and other outdoor activities. Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
rest of your evening as you wish—ask your
Dinner: On your own—ask your Program
Program Director for recommendations.
Director for local restaurant recommendations.
Evening: You have the freedom to spend the Day 5 Jackson Hole •
rest of your evening as you wish—ask your
Yellowstone National Park • West
Program Director for recommendations.
Yellowstone, Montana
̦ Destination: Yellowstone
Day 4 Jackson Hole • Snake River float
̦ Included Meals: Breakfast
̦ Destination: Jackson Hole ̦ Accommodations: Best Western Desert Inn
̦ Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner or similar
̦ Accommodations: Snow King Resort Hotel
Breakfast: At the hotel.
or similar
Activity Note: Today’s activities include a Morning: Depart for Yellowstone—keep your
rafting excursion on Snake River. cameras handy, as your driving route will take
you through some of the gorgeous mountain
Breakfast: At the hotel. scenery of Grand Teton National Park.
Morning: Head out to Snake River, where $V\RXHQWHUIURPWKH6RXWK(QWUDQFH\RX̞OO
\RX̞OOHQMR\DQLQFOXGHGͬRDWWRXU:LQG\RXU HQMR\\RXUͫUVWRIWKUHHLQFOXGHGWRXUVRI
way through the gentle waters of the Snake Yellowstone National Park. You’ll pass through
River corridor, granting you a unique look toward the town of West Yellowstone, tracing a
at the unspoiled wilderness of Grand Teton route that takes you by the tranquil, tree-lined
1DWLRQDO3DUNEvening: You have the freedom to spend the Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
rest of your evening as you wish—ask your rest of your evening as you wish—ask your
Program Director for recommendations. Program Director for recommendations.
Day 6 West Yellowstone • Explore Day 7 West Yellowstone • Explore
Yellowstone National Park Yellowstone National Park •
̦ Destination: Yellowstone Cody, Wyoming
̦ Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner ̦ Destination: Cody
̦ Accommodations: Best Western Desert Inn ̦ Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
or similar ̦ Accommodations: Holiday Inn at Buffalo Bill
Breakfast: At the hotel. Village or similar
Activity Note: Today’s overland transfer to
Morning:6SHQGWKHGD\LQ$PHULFD̞VͫUVW
Cody, Wyoming will take approximately 9
national park, established to preserve its
hours, including explorations in Yellowstone
remarkable geothermal formations—there
National Park along the way.
are more geysers and hot springs here than
in the rest of the world combined. Take in the Breakfast: At the hotel.
natural phenomena of shooting geysers, and
Morning:6HWRXWXSRQ\RXUWKLUGDQGͫQDOWRXU
keep your eyes open for bighorn sheep, elk,
of Yellowstone National Park as you make your
coyote, grizzly, black bear, and other wildlife,
way east toward Cody, Wyoming.
as you explore the park, which remains 99%
undeveloped—true wilderness. As you journey along the road, you’ll take in a
few more of the park’s notable sights, including
You’ll stop at Mammoth Hot Springs, Fountain
the Mud Volcano Area to see its impressive
Paint Pot, and Old Faithful, the famed
cluster of hot springs and mud pots, and the
geyser that has been spouting an average
*UDQG&DQ\RQRIDay 8 Cody • Visit Buffalo Bill Center Day 9 Cody • Visit former
of the West Japanese-American internment camp
̦ Destination: Cody • Sheridan
̦ Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner ̦ Destination: Sheridan
̦ Accommodations: Holiday Inn at Buffalo Bill ̦ Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Village or similar ̦ Accommodations: Holiday Inn Sheridan
Breakfast: At the hotel. Convention Center or similar
Activity Note: Today’s overland transfer to
Morning:(QMR\DQLQFOXGHGWRXURIWKH%XIIDOR
Sheridan, Wyoming will take approximately 8
Bill Center of the West. Widely regarded as
hours, including stops along the way.
RQHRI$PHULFD̞VͫQHVW:HVWHUQPXVHXPV
the center advances knowledge about the Breakfast: At the hotel.
American West through acquiring, exhibiting,
Morning: Begin your discoveries today by
and interpreting collections of artifacts and
preserving their physical and contextual UHͬHFWLQJXSRQDFRQWURYHUVLDOFKDSWHURI
integrity. American history during an exclusive Discovery
Series visit to Heart Mountain Relocation
,WIHDWXUHVͫYHLQWHUQDWLRQDOO\DFFODLPHG Center, the site of a former Japanese-American
museums under one roof—the Whitney internment camp.
Gallery of Western Art, the Buffalo Bill
Shortly following the surprise attack at Pearl
Museum, the Plains Indian Museum, the Cody
Harbor and America’s entry into World War
Firearms Museum, and the Draper Museum of
II, President Roosevelt authorized the forcible
Natural History.
relocation of approximately 120,000 people of
Lunch: Return to Cody, where lunch is on your Japanese descent into ten relocation centers
own—ask your Program Director for local across the country. Heart Mountain is one of
restaurant recommendations. few such facilities with structures still standing
today, and is now a museum dedicated to
Afternoon: Free for your own discoveries—ask
recording the experience of the inmates who
your Program Director for recommendations.
lived out the war here—including those who
Dinner: Join your fellow travelers for resisted the draft after it was extended to
an included dinner at a local restaurant, interned Japanese Americans in 1944.
accompanied by a live western musical
Then, begin your transfer toward Sheridan
performance.
today via the picturesque Bighorn Scenic
Evening: You have the freedom to spend the Highway. As you ride, you’ll bask in the
rest of your evening as you wish—ask your majestic views, ranging from high plains trails
Program Director for recommendations. WREDGODQGVDQGFDQ\RQVZLWKPDJQLͫFHQW
gorges. Learn about local fossils, and marvel at
cliffs of rock that loom 2,000 feet overhead.
Lunch: Stop at a local restaurant along the way
for an included lunch.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
16Afternoon: Continue your journey through the massive rock as the landing site of the alien
Bighorn Mountains, stopping for a moment VSDFHFUDIWLQWKHSRSXODUͫOPClose Encounters
RITXLHWUHͬHFWLRQDWWKH/LWWOH%LJKRUQ of the Third Kind.
Monument, memorializing the infamous battle
Lunch: Stop for an included lunch as you
between Custer’s 7th Calvary and the Sioux
continue on your way to Rapid City.
and Cheyenne tribes. Arrive at your hotel in
Sheridan late this afternoon, and spend the rest Afternoon: Arrive at your hotel late this
of the day at leisure. afternoon, and enjoy the day free for your own
discoveries—ask your Program Director for
Dinner: On your own—ask your Program
recommendations.
Director for local restaurant recommendations.
Dinner: On your own—ask your Program
Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
Director for local restaurant recommendations.
rest of your evening as you wish—ask your
Program Director for recommendations. Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
rest of your evening as you wish—ask your
Day 10 Sheridan • Visit Devils Tower • Program Director for recommendations.
Rapid City, South Dakota
̦ Destination: Rapid City Day 11 Rapid City • Badlands
̦ Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch National Park
̦ Accommodations: Holiday Inn Rushmore ̦ Destination: Badlands National Park
Plaza or similar ̦ Included Meals: Breakfast
Activity Note: Today’s overland transfer ̦ Accommodations: Holiday Inn Rushmore
to Rapid City, South Dakota will take Plaza or similar
approximately 9 hours, including stops Breakfast: At the hotel.
along the way.
Morning:(QMR\DQLQFOXGHGWRXURI%DGODQGV
Breakfast: At the hotel. National Park. The hunting grounds of Native
Americans from as long as 11,000 years ago, the
Morning: Travel through the Black Hills of
244,000-acre park has a history that stretches
Wyoming and South Dakota today, stopping
even further back, to an epoch at least 30
along the way for an included tour of Devils
million years ago. Fossilized bones uncovered
7RZHUWKH8QLWHG6WDWHV̞ͫUVW1DWLRQDO
by later Lakota Indians suggested that these
Monument.
now dry lands had once been covered with a
(VWDEOLVKHGDVDPRQXPHQWLQ E\ body of water, a fact later proved by the many
President Theodore Roosevelt, the tower stands geologists and fossil researchers who have
1,267 feet above the Belle Fourche River—an studied the area.
almost vertical natural monolith, it’s the
Beyond their canyon-like grandeur,
remnant of an ancient volcano. Known by some
what makes the badlands so unique is the
northern plains tribes as Mato Tipi (Bear’s
combination of dry ground and loose rock
Lodge), it is still a sacred site of worship for
linked by sediment. Both the earth and the
many Native Americans. You’ll recognize the
rocks themselves are highly resistant to
erosion, so that when the infrequent rains hit,
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
17the sediment becomes runoff and the rocks Now being constructed just 17 miles southwest
can be easily displaced. The scene you see in of Mount Rushmore, the Crazy Horse Memorial
one visit might be dramatically rearranged at will be the world’s largest sculpture once
your next. completed. Begun in 1948 by noted sculptor
Korczak Ziolkowski at the request of Native
Lunch: See another slice of history during
Americans, the memorial includes the Indian
an independent lunch: Wall Drug, which was
Museum of North America, the Native American
founded in a poor town of 326 people during
Cultural Center, the sculptor’s studio, and a
the Depression. Wall Drug made its name by
40,000-square-foot Orientation Center.
offering free ice water to thirsty travelers and,
as word spread, more came from even greater The dramatic sculpture of the legendary chief
distances. 82 years later, travelers still come DVWULGHKLVKRUVHIXOͫOOVWKHZLVKRI/DNRWD
DQGͫQGDYDVWDUUD\RIVKRSVDQGGLVSOD\V Chief Standing Bear spoken at the dedication
featuring regional curios, historic photos, toys of the statue in 1948: “My fellow chiefs and I
and crafts from South Dakota, and items from would like the white man to know that the red
Native American and cowboy culture. Wall man has great heroes, too.” Here, you’ll have
Drug also features a number of dining options, an opportunity to marvel at the massive statue,
and you’ll be free to choose one during your and also visit the studio where Ziolkowski
lunch here. worked without pay until his death in 1982.
Afternoon: Return to Rapid City, where the rest Lunch: You’ll have time for lunch on your own
of the day is yours to spend as you like. near the monument.
Dinner: On your own—ask your Program Afternoon: Continue on to Mount Rushmore.
Director for local restaurant recommendations. &HUWDLQO\\RX̞YHVHHQSKRWRJUDSKVDQGͫOPV
(remember Hitchcock’s North by Northwest?)
Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
of this famous monument—with the heads of
rest of your evening as you wish—ask your
George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, Thomas
Program Director for recommendations.
Jefferson, and Theodore Roosevelt—sculpted
out of the solid granite mountain face to
Day 12 Rapid City • Visit Crazy Horse commemorate 150 years of American history.
Monument & Mount Rushmore • Native But nothing can compare with viewing it
American cultural experience ͫUVWKDQG
̦ Destination: Rapid City Then, enjoy some free time to contemplate the
̦ Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner monument on your own, before returning to
̦ Accommodations: Holiday Inn Rushmore Rapid City. Here, you’ll learn more about the
Plaza or similar local indigenous way of life during an exclusive
Breakfast: At the hotel. Discovery Series event, in which you’ll witness
a traditional Native American dance ceremony.
Morning: Set off on a sightseeing tour of Rapid
City as you make your way to the Crazy Horse Dinner: Reminisce over your journey with your
Memorial. fellow travelers during an included Farewell
Dinner at your hotel.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
18Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
rest of your evening as you wish—ask your
Program Director for recommendations.
Day 13 Depart Rapid City
̦ Included Meals: Breakfast
Breakfast: At the hotel.
Morning:7UDQVIHUWRWKHDLUSRUWIRU\RXUͬLJKW
home. Departure times vary depending on your
home city.
Or begin your post-trip extension to New
Mexico: Santa Fe & Taos.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
19PRE-TRIP
Denver & the Rocky Mountains
INCLUDED IN YOUR PRICE
» Accommodations for 3 nights » ([FOXVLYHVHUYLFHVRID*UDQG&LUFOH
» 5 meals: 3 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner Program Director
» 2 included tours: Rocky Mountain National » Gratuities for local guides and motorcoach
Park, Denver drivers on your extension and all
optional tours
» All transfers
PRE-TRIP EXTENSION ITINERARY
Add another national park to your journey and experience the grand majesty of the Rockies as you explore the
pristine wilderness of Rocky Mountain National Park, an alpine playground of crystal lakes, pine forests, lush
meadows and snowcapped peaks. Then explore Colorado’s cosmopolitan capital, a trendy modern city which
still retains some of its small mountain town ambiance.
Day 1 Arrive Denver, Colorado Day 2 Denver • Visit Rocky Mountain
̦ Destination: Denver National Park
̦ Accommodations: Hyatt Place Denver ̦ Destination: Rocky Mountain National Park
Downtown or similar ̦ Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Morning/Afternoon: Travel to Denver today, ̦ Accommodations: Hyatt Place Denver
with your arrival time depending on your Downtown or similar
departure city. Transfer to your hotel and enjoy Breakfast: At the hotel.
some time to settle in.
Morning: Depart for a tour of Rocky Mountain
Dinner: On your own—ask your Program National Park. The Rocky Mountains are one
Director for local restaurant recommendations. of the world’s premier mountain ranges, and
there are few better vantage points to take it all
Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
in than here.
rest of your evening as you wish—ask your
Program Director for recommendations. (VFDSHWKHKXVWOHDQGEXVWOHRIFLYLOL]DWLRQ
and explore the unspoiled wilderness of the
top of the world; marvel at mountain streams,
VRFU\VWDOFOHDUWKDW\RXFDQVHHWKHͫVK
swimming below the surface.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
20Witness grazing elk and browsing deer in fertile Lunch: On your own in the city—ask your
PHDGRZVZDWFKEOXHELUGVDQGEXWWHUͬLHVͬLW Program Director for local restaurant
about the branches of thick pine forests, with recommendations.
golden eagles and peregrine falcons circling the
Afternoon: The day is yours to explore the
skies above watching for unwary prey. Discover
cosmopolitan Colorado capital on your own.
UROOLQJWXQGUDFDUSHWHGLQFRORUIXOZLOGͬRZHUV
Your Program Director will be happy to offer
and enjoy the constant company of the craggy
suggestions on how to spend your free time to
mountain peaks beckoning in the distance.
satisfy your interests.
Lunch:(QMR\DQLQFOXGHGSLFQLFOXQFKDPLGVW
Dinner: Included at a local restaurant.
the scenery of the park.
Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
Afternoon: You’ll have a few hours to explore
rest of your evening as you wish—ask your
independently before returning to Denver. You
Program Director for recommendations.
might choose to spend your time seeing more of
the Rockies, or perhaps you’ll stroll the streets
RI(VWHV3DUNDOLWWOHWRZQDWWKHEDVHRIWKH Day 4 Denver • Salt Lake City, Utah
mountain replete with charming shops, cafés, ̦ Destination: Salt Lake City
restaurants and beer gardens. ̦ Included Meals: Breakfast
Dinner: Dinner is on your own. Ask Breakfast: At the hotel.
your Program Director for restaurant
Morning: Fly to Salt Lake City, where
recommendations.
you’ll begin your main The Great National
Evening: Continue making independent Parks: Yellowstone, Grand Teton & Mount
discoveries this evening, or perhaps you’ll relax Rushmore vacation.
at the hotel.
Day 3 Explore Denver
̦ Destination: Denver
̦ Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
̦ Accommodations: Hyatt Place Denver
Downtown or similar
Breakfast: At the hotel.
Morning: Discover the Mile High City on an
included tour today. Take in the sights of the
town, such as the gold-domed capitol building,
a Neoclassical structure that dominates the
skyline from its perch on capitol hill. You’ll
also explore the city’s chic Lower Downtown
(“LoDo”) area, Denver’s oldest neighborhood,
which in recent years has been transformed
into a trendy warren of upscale restaurants and
cocktail bars.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
21POST-TRIP
New Mexico: Santa Fe & Taos
INCLUDED IN YOUR PRICE
» Accommodations for 3 nights » Gratuities for local guides and motorcoach
» 4 meals: 3 breakfasts, 1 dinner drivers on your extension and all
optional tours
» 2 included tours: Santa Fe, Taos
» All transfers
» ([FOXVLYHVHUYLFHVRID*UDQG&LUFOH
Program Director
POST-TRIP EXTENSION ITINERARY
From the earthen villages of Native Americans to the plazas built by Spanish conquistadores, New Mexico’s
dramatic history unfolds on this post-trip extension as you take in the laid-back pace of Taos and the Spanish
SXHEORͬDYRURI6DQWH)H:LWKSOXQJLQJJRUJHVDQGUHGVWRQHPHVDVDV\RXUEDFNGURS\RX̞OOEHVZHSWDZD\
by the dramatic beauty of the rugged Southwest.
Day 1 Rapid City, South Dakota • Santa Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
Fe, New Mexico rest of your evening as you wish—ask your
Program Director for recommendations.
̦ Destination: Santa Fe
̦ Accommodations: Drury Plaza Hotel
or similar Day 2 Santa Fe • Explore Taos
̦ Destination: Santa Fe
Breakfast: At the hotel.
̦ Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Morning:7UDQVIHUWRWKHDLUSRUWDQGͬ\WR ̦ Accommodations: Drury Plaza Hotel
Albuquerque, New Mexico. or similar
Lunch: You’ll have a layover in Denver, where Breakfast: At the hotel.
you’ll have time for lunch on your own.
Morning: Depart for Taos and enjoy a guided
Afternoon: Depart from the Albuquerque walk downtown, where adobe buildings
airport for Santa Fe, arriving at your hotel in surround the central plaza. Continue on to
the afternoon, where you’ll have time to rest or WKH7DRV3XHEORD81(6&2:RUOG+HULWDJH
explore independently. Site which boasts homes built as long as a
millennium ago, where one of the local college
Dinner: On your own—ask your Program
students, many of whom grew up in the pueblo,
Director for local restaurant recommendations.
will take you on a tour.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
22Next, you’ll visit the Rio Grande Gorge, a Lunch: On your own in Santa Fe—ask
50-mile gorge plunging 800 feet at its deepest, your Program Director for local restaurant
and soak in the dramatic vistas. View the chasm recommendations.
from the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge, a steel-deck
Afternoon: Free for your own discoveries—ask
bridge set 565 feet above the river (making it
your Program Director for recommendations.
the seventh highest in the country).
Dinner: On your own—ask your Program
Lunch: On your own in Taos—ask your
Director for restaurant recommendations.
Program Director for local restaurant
recommendations. Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
rest of your evening as you wish—ask your
Afternoon: Return to Santa Fe, arriving at your
Program Director for recommendations.
hotel in the mid-afternoon. Spend the rest of
the day as you please.
Day 4 Santa Fe • Albuquerque •
Dinner: Included at a local restaurant.
Return home
Evening: Free for your own discoveries—ask ̦ Included Meals: Breakfast
your Program Director for recommendations.
Breakfast: At the hotel.
Day 3 Explore Santa Fe Morning: Transfer to the airport in
$OEXTXHUTXHIRU\RXUͬLJKWKRPH
̦ Destination: Santa Fe
̦ Included Meals: Breakfast
̦ Accommodations: Drury Plaza Hotel
or similar
Breakfast: At the hotel.
Morning: Set off on a city tour of Santa Fe.
Discover the city’s downtown area, which has
EHHQDUFKLWHFWXUDOO\XQLͫHGDURXQG6SDQLVK
Pueblo Revival style for more than a century.
You’ll also explore the shops and galleries of
Canyon Road, the modern-day spin on the old
mountain trade routes.
Then see the Romanesque St. Francis of Assisi
Cathedral, which has featured in the creative
works of writers such as Willa Cather and
SDLQWHUVOLNH(GZDUG+RSSHUDQGLVKRPHWR
La Conquistadora, America’s oldest statue of
the Blessed Virgin Mary. Your tour concludes
at the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, where you’ll
peruse 83 years’ worth of the artist’s work,
DVZHOODVLQVLJKWVLQWRWKHSUROLͫFZRPDQ̞V
creative muses.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
23ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT THIS TRIP:
With the planning of any vacation comes the need to research and
L^V\`P^_TZY^BPɪ]PSP]P_ZSPW[4Y_SPQZWWZbTYR[LRP^dZ`ɪWWʭYO
TYQZ]XL_TZY_SL_Z`]_]LaPWP]^SLaPQZ`YOXZ^_MPYPʭNTLWL^_SPdɪaP
prepared for this vacation, on subjects ranging from passports to weather,
and currency to recommended reading.
BPɪaPTYNW`OPO_SPZʯNTLW?]LaPW3LYOMZZV_SL_dZ`ɪWW]PNPTaPbSPY
you reserve your departure of this trip, which outlines everything you’ll
YPPO_ZVYZbMPQZ]PLYOO`]TYRdZ`]aLNL_TZYBSL_ɪ^XZ]PZ`]?]LaPW
Counselors will be ready and eager to address any additional questions
you may have.
With all of our resources available to you, enjoy peace of mind …
and look forward to the incredible discoveries that await.
24CONTENTS
TRAVEL DOCUMENTS & ENTRY REQUIREMENTS . . . . . . . . . . . .N/A
RIGORS, VACCINES & GENERAL HEALTH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26
MONEY MATTERS: LOCAL CURRENCY & TIPPING GUIDELINES . . .29
Top 3 Suggestions
Local Currency
Tipping Guidelines
AIR, OPTIONAL TOURS & STAYING IN TOUCH . . . . . . . . . . . . .31
PACKING: WHAT TO BRING & LUGGAGE LIMITS . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34
CLIMATE & AVERAGE TEMPERATURES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38
ABOUT YOUR DESTINATIONS: CULTURE, ETIQUETTE & MORE . . .41
Culture & Points to Know
Shopping
DEMOGRAPHICS & HISTORY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45
RESOURCES: SUGGESTED READING & MOVIES. . . . . . . . . . . . . .48
25RIGORS, VACCINES & GENERAL HEALTH
Keep Your Abilities In Mind
Please review the information below prior to departing on this trip. We reserve the right for our
Program Directors to modify participation, or in some circumstances send travelers home if their
limitations are impacting the group’s experience.
GROUP SIZE
• A maximum of 42 travelers, led by a local Grand Circle Program Director
PACING
• 6 locations in 13 days, including 1 single-night stay
• 6 days feature 6-8 hours of travel by motorcoach
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
• Walk 1 mile unassisted and participate in 3-4 hours of physical activities daily, including
uneven walking surfaces such as unpaved paths, steep hills, stairs, and stones
• We reserve the right for Program Directors to restrict participation, or in some
circumstances send travelers home, if their limitations impact the group’s experience
TERRAIN & TRANSPORTATION
• 5 full days at altitudes between 5,000–9,000 feet
• Uneven surfaces, including unpaved trails, steep inclines, steps, and rocky terrain
• Travel by 55-seat motorcoach
CLIMATE
• Daytime temperatures range from 50-92°F during touring season
• June-August are the warmest months
• Nighttime temperatures can fall to 30-50°F
Long Drives & Other Rigors
This trip requires long motorcoach transfers. On the main trip alone we’ll cover over 1,000 miles.
Please feel free to bring whatever you need to be comfortable on the bus (pillow, blanket, etc.)
and come prepared for long drives.
26This trip also features an active itinerary with long days of sightseeing, occasional walks that
follow steep and uneven pathways, and higher altitudes than you may be used to. In addition,
both included and optional tours can require extended walking to guarantee a truly rewarding
experience.
Health Check
)HHOLQJKHDOWK\DQGFRQͫGHQWRI\RXUPRELOLW\LVHVVHQWLDOWRIXOO\HQMR\\RXUWULS,I\RX
have ongoing medical conditions or concerns about your health, we highly recommend that
you schedule a checkup with your personal physician at least six weeks in advance of your
departure date.
• Discuss with your doctor any aspects of your itinerary that may affect your health and be
guided by his or her advice. (You can use the “Keep Your Abilities in Mind” on the previous
page as a guideline to discuss with him or her.)
•Staying Healthy on Your Trip
Jet Lag Tips
• Start your trip well-rested.
• Begin a gradual transition to your new time zone before you leave or switch to your
destination time zone when you get on the plane.
• Attempt to sleep and eat according to the new schedule.
• Avoid heavy eating and drinking caffeine or alcoholic beverages right before–and during–
\RXUͬLJKW
• 'ULQNSOHQW\RIZDWHUDQGRUIUXLWMXLFHZKLOHͬ\LQJ
• Stretch your legs, neck, and back periodically while seated on the plane.
• After arrival, avoid the temptation to nap.
• 'RQ̞WSXVK\RXUVHOIWRVHHDORWRQ\RXUͫUVWGD\
• 7U\WRVWD\DZDNH\RXUͫUVWGD\XQWLODIWHUGLQQHU
Allergies
If you have any serious allergies or dietary restrictions, we advise you to notify us at least 30 days
prior to your departure. Please call our Traveler Support team at 1-800-321-2835, and we will
FRPPXQLFDWHWKHPWRRXUUHJLRQDORIͫFH(YHU\HIIRUWZLOOEHPDGHWRDFFRPPRGDWH\RX
High AltitudeMONEY MATTERS: LOCAL CURRENCY & TIPPING GUIDELINES
Top Three Tips
• Carry a mix of different types of payments: some cash, an ATM card, and a credit card
• Traveler’s checks are not recommended.7KH\FDQEHGLIͫFXOWWRH[FKDQJHDQGWKH
commission fee for cashing them is quite high. It’s more practical to view them as a last
resort in the event of a special situation.
• Keep a few smaller bills on hand. It makes both tipping and small purchases easier.
ATMs
When using the ATM, keep in mind that it may only accept cards from local banks, and may not
allow cash advances on credit cards; you might need to try more than one ATM or more than
one card.
Many banks charge a fee of $1-$5 each time you use an out-of-network ATM. Others may charge
you a percentage of the amount you withdraw. We recommend that you check with your bank
before you depart.
Lastly, don’t forget to memorize the actual digits of your card’s PIN number (many keypads do
not include letters on their keys—they only display numbers.)
United States:$70VFDQEHKDUGWRͫQGLQUXUDODUHDVVXFKDVQDWLRQDOSDUNVEXWDUHFRPPRQ
in large cities and small towns. Our suggestion is to hit up the ATM in town before you head out
for the day. Don’t forget to let your bank know that you’ll be traveling before you leave home—if
they see a lot of out-of-town withdrawals they might put a freeze on your account because of
suspected fraud.
Credit & Debit Cards
(YHQLI\RXGRQ̞WSODQRQXVLQJDFUHGLWFDUGGXULQJ\RXUWULSZHVWLOOVXJJHVWWKDW\RXEULQJRQH
RUWZRDVDEDFNXSHVSHFLDOO\LI\RXDUHSODQQLQJDODUJHSXUFKDVH DUWZRUNMHZHOU\ :HDOVR
VXJJHVWWKDW\RXEULQJPRUHWKDQRQHEUDQGRIFDUG LH9LVD0DVWHU&DUG$PHULFDQ([SUHVV LI
possible, because not every shop will take every card. For example, although the Discover card is
accepted in some countries outside the U.S., it is not widely adopted, so other brands will work at
a much larger range of stores, restaurants, etc.
Notify Card Providers of Upcoming Travel
Many credit card companies and banks have fraud alert departments that will freeze your card if
they see suspicious charges—such as charges or withdrawals from another country. To avoid an
accidental security block, it is a good idea to notify your credit card company and/or bank you will
be using your cards abroad. You can do this by calling their customer service number a week or
two before your departure. Some banks or credit card companies will also let you do this online.
29You should also double-check what phone number you could call if you have a problem with a
card while you are abroad. Don’t assume you can use the 1-800 number printed on the back of
your card—most 1 800 numbers don’t work outside of the U.S.!
Tipping Guidelines
Of course, whether you tip, and how much, is always at your own discretion. But for those of
you who have asked for tipping suggestions, we offer these guidelines. To make it easy for you
to budget, we have quoted the amounts in U.S. dollars; tips can be converted and paid in local
currency or in U.S. dollars.
• GCT Program Director: It is customary to express a personal “thank you” to your GCT
Program Director at the end of your trip. As a guideline, many travelers give $6-$8 per
traveler for each day their Program Director is with them. Please note that tips for your
Program Director can only be in the form of cash. If you are taking any of the optional extensions,
your Program Director during the extension(s) may not be the same as the one on your main trip.
• Hotel Housekeeping: Many travelers will leave $1-$2 per day, per room for the hotel
housekeeping staff.
• Included in Your Trip Price: Gratuities are included for local guides and motorcoach drivers
on your main trip, extensions, and all optional tours.
Time at Leisure: During the times that you explore independently, you may dine in a local
restaurant, take a taxi, or avail yourself of some other service where tipping is customary. Tip
throughout your tour as you normally would at home. Some restaurants will add a service charge
to your tab, and, in this case, it is still a nice gesture to add a little more if you have received
good service. Your Program Director will tip waiters for the included meals when the group
dines together.
30AIR, OPTIONAL TOURS & STAYING IN TOUCH Land Only Travelers & Personalized Air ŽĢóĴ'āƩłĢŶĢŋłŭ • Land Only:
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