Grand Circle Travel - GRAND CIRCLE TRAVEL PLANNING GUIDE Southwest National Parks: Arches, Zion, Bryce
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
GRAND CIRCLE TRAVEL PLANNING GUIDE
Southwest National Parks: Arches, Zion, Bryce &
the Grand Canyon
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 Southwest National
Parks: Arches, Zion, Bryce & the Grand Canyon vacation, to go beyond the iconic sites and into the
true heart of the American southwest 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 southwest, not just a surface view. Enjoy a visit to a family-owned farm in Colorado
where you’ll chat with the owner about life in rural America. While here, you’ll also savor a family-
style meal prepared with farm-fresh ingredients. 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 30% of travelers who extend
their time abroad. Add the pre-trip extension to Colorado: Denver, post-trip extension to Utah: Salt
Lake City and 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 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
Travel Documents & Entry Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . N/A
Rigors, Vaccines & General Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Money Matters: Local Currency & Tipping Guidelines . . . . . . . 30
Air, Optional Tours & Staying in Touch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Packing: What to Bring & Luggage Limits . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Climate & Average Temperatures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
About Your Destinations: Culture, Etiquette & More . . . . . . . . 42
Demographics & History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
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
Southwest National Parks: Arches, Zion,
Bryce & the Grand Canyon
Colorado: Durango | Utah: Moab, Bryce Canyon, Salt Lake City | Arizona: Page
Countries: 1 | Cities: 5 | National Parks: 6
Sandstone formations, Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
IT’S INCLUDED
12 days from $3195 • Choose to purchase Grand Circle’s airfare, and your airport transfers,
Including international airfare government taxes, fees, and airline fuel surcharges are included. Or, make
from Denver your own air arrangements
Travel from only $267 per day • Accommodations for 10 nights in comfortable rooms with private baths
• 23 meals: 11 breakfasts, 7 lunches, and 5 dinners
12 days from $2795 • 9 included features: 8 guided tours and 1 exclusive Discovery Series event:
Tour only James Ranch visit
Travel from only $233 per day • Exclusive services of a local Grand Circle Program Director (assigned to no
more than 42 travelers)
Single Supplement: FREE
• Gratuities on your main trip for local guides and motorcoach drivers
• Personal headset on all included and optional tours
MAXIMIZE YOUR • Private motorcoach land travel
DISCOVERIES & VALUE • Baggage handling for 1 piece of luggage per person, including tips
OPTIONAL EXTENSIONS • 5% Frequent Traveler Credit toward your next trip
all with FREE Single Supplements
Denver & the Rocky Mountains
3 nights pre-trip from $1395
Salt Lake City & Santa Fe To get a richer view of the Included Features on this trip,
4 nights post-trip from $1295 watch our Trip Itinerary video at www.gct.com/nps2021
Southwest National Parks: Arches, Zion, Bryce & the Grand Canyon
6
SOUTHWEST NATIONAL NEW: SAVE UP TO 10% WITH OUR GOOD BUY PLAN
PARKS: ARCHES, ZION, BRYCE The earlier you reserve your departure and pay in full, the more
you’ll save—up to 10%—plus, you’ll lock in your price.
& THE GRAND CANYON
For details, visit www.gct.com/gbd
2021 DATES & PRICES
JUNE;
DEPART FROM: MAY SEPTEMBER JULY AUGUST
Denver $3295 $3495 $3195 $3395
Baltimore, Chicago, Dallas, Detroit,
Los Angeles, Minneapolis, Philadelphia,
$3395 $3595 $3295 $3495
Phoenix, Portland, San Diego,
San Francisco, Seattle, Washington, DC
Atlanta, Boston, Houston, Miami, New York,
$3495 $3695 $3395 $3595
Newark, Orlando, Tampa
Additional departure cities are available. Upgrade to Business Class may be available for the international portion of your flight. Call for details.
MAY JUNE; SEPTEMBER JULY AUGUST
Land tour only $2895 $3095 $2795 $2995
NPS2021
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/nps2021pricing
NEW RISK-FREE BOOKING FREE SINGLE
POLICY: RESERVE WITH BEST PRICE
CONFIDENCE GUARANTEE SUPPLEMENTS
on your main trip and extensions.
We will waive any change fees
We promise you won’t find a lower We don't charge you more for
for existing or new 2020 and 2021
reservations if you transfer to another price on a comparable vacation— your own room.
departure date by 12/31/20. if you do, we’ll match it.
Each departure has limited solo
See details at www.gct.com/ See details at www.gct.com/bpg space available—call today.
flexible-booking.
Publication Date 5/27/20
1-800-221-2610 • www.gct.com/nps2021
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-nps2021.
Maximize Your Time & Value: 55% of our travelers choose Back-to-Back Trips: 90% of our travelers who combined
to take a pre- or post-trip extension 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 The Great National Parks: Yellowstone, Grand
this vacation, you can choose between Denver & the Rocky Teton & Mount Rushmore. If you’re already on the road, why
Mountains and Salt Lake City & Santa Fe. not see more of the region and avoid another flight? Plus,
you’ll save $250 per person when you reserve two trips right
“Break Away” Options: 30% of our travelers choose to
after one another.
arrive early or stay late in their destination
Air Options: More than 50% of our travelers customize
Before or after your main tour or trip extension, “break
their flights
away” anywhere you’d like to go to do more exploring
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
Southwest National Parks:
8
Southwest National Parks:
Arches, Zion, Bryce & the Grand Canyon
2021
12-Day Land Tour
EXTEND YOUR TRIP
PRE-TRIP
Denver & the Rocky Mountains
POST-TRIP
Salt Lake City & Santa Fe
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 10 nights in » Personal headset on all included and
comfortable rooms with private baths optional tours
» 23 meals: 11 breakfasts, 7 lunches, » Private motorcoach land travel
and 5 dinners
» Baggage handling for 1 piece of luggage per
» 9 included features: 8 guided tours and 1 person, including tips
exclusive Discovery Series event: James
» 5% Frequent Traveler Credit toward
Ranch visit
your next trip
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
» 5 locations in 12 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
» 3 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
11Southwest National Parks: Arches, Zion, Bryce
& the Grand Canyon
2021
Discover sprawling red sandstone canyons, towering buttes, and boundless skies on this 12-day
journey focused on the national parks of the Southwest. Marvel at the natural wonders of six American
national parks; see the gravity-defying rock formations of Arches National Park and the primeval landscape
of the Canyonlands … witness the spires of Bryce Canyon and the ancient cliff dwellings of Mesa Verde …
survey the crystal rivers and lush aspen forests of Zion, and stand in awe at one of nature’s most marvelous
engineering feats—the Grand Canyon. These are magical lands that people travel from the ends of the earth
to see in their lifetime, and it’s all waiting for you in your own backyard.
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.
Salt Lake City & Santa Fe
4 NIGHTS POST-TRIP
Extend your journey with a night in Salt Lake City, the bustling capital of Utah and spiritual center of the
Mormon Church. Then unfold the dramatic history of New Mexico as you take in the laid-back pace of Taos
DQGWKH6SDQLVKSXHEORͬDYRURI6DQWH)H:LWKSOXQJLQJJRUJHVDQGUHGVWRQHPHVDVDV\RXUEDFNGURS\RX̞OO
be swept away 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 Durango, Colorado Dinner:,QFOXGHGDWWKHUDQFK(QMR\D
family-style Welcome Dinner made from
• Destination: Durango
farm-fresh ingredients.
• Accommodations: Doubletree Hotel Durango
or similar Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
Afternoon: Travel to Durango today, with your rest of your evening as you wish—ask your
arrival time depending on your departure city. Program Director for recommendations.
Transfer to your hotel and meet your Program
Director, who will discuss what’s in the vicinity Day 3 Durango • Visit Mesa Verde
of your hotel in preparation for your orientation • Destination: Durango
tomorrow.
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Dinner: On your own—ask your Program • Accommodations: Doubletree Hotel Durango
Director for restaurant recommendations. or similar
Evening:(QMR\WKHUHVWRIWKHGD\DW Breakfast: At the hotel.
your leisure. Morning: Set off for an included tour of Mesa
9HUGH1DWLRQDO3DUNWKHͫUVWDUFKDHRORJLFDO
Day 2 Durango • James Ranch visit park established in our National Parks System
• Destination: Durango and designated a World Cultural Heritage Site
E\81(6&2LQ
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
• Accommodations: Doubletree Hotel Durango Mesa Verde, Spanish for “Green Table,”
or similar offers an unparalleled opportunity to see and
Breakfast: At the hotel. experience a unique cultural landscape through
the best-preserved archaeological site in the
Morning:$WWHQGDQRULHQWDWLRQEULHͫQJZLWK United States. More than 1,000 years ago,
your Program Director and fellow travelers for these cliffs were occupied by a group of people
a preview of the discoveries that are in store for who built complex stone villages sheltered in
you over the coming days. Then, you’ll have the recesses and alcoves high along the sheer cliff
rest of the morning and afternoon at leisure to walls. The area remained occupied for about
relax or explore Durango independently. 700 years.
Lunch: On your own—ask your Program Native tribes have long known of this site—as
Director for local restaurant recommendations. many as 24 Native American tribes can trace
their ancestry to the cliff-dwellers—but the
Afternoon: You have a free afternoon to spend
area was brought to worldwide attention when
as you please before an exclusive Discovery
(XURSHDQVͫUVWEHKHOGWKHPLQWKHV
Series visit to James Ranch, an organic
family-run farm and ranch in beautiful Animas Lunch: Included at an on-site café.
River Valley. Learn about the farm’s history
from one of its owners and have a chance to
explore the grounds.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
13Afternoon: Head back to Durango, where the Dinner: On your own in Moab—ask your
rest of the day is yours to spend at leisure. Your Program Director for local restaurant
Program Director can recommend free time recommendations.
activities.
Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
Dinner/Evening: Continue making independent rest of your evening as you wish—ask your
discoveries this evening, with dinner on your Program Director for recommendations.
own. Ask your Program Director for restaurant
recommendations. Day 5 Moab • Visit Canyonlands
National Park
Day 4 Durango • Durango & Silverton • Destination: Moab
Narrow Gauge Railroad • Moab, Utah • Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
• Destination: Moab • Accommodations: Sleep Inn & Suites
• Included Meals: Breakfast or similar
• Accommodations: Sleep Inn & Suites
Breakfast: At the hotel.
or similar
Morning: Depart this morning for Canyonlands
Activity Note: Today’s train transfer is long
National Park, the largest national park in
(about 11 hours total), with an early wake up
Utah. Here, the Colorado and Green rivers
call and departure time. You will have about a
meet to carve out an unforgettable panorama
2-hour break midday to stretch your legs and
of canyons, spires, plateaus, gorges, hoodoos,
have lunch.
mesas, and buttes, squeezed into 527 square
Breakfast: At the hotel. miles of unspoiled desert.
Morning: Rise early this morning to embark The rivers intersect in a “Y” pattern, splitting
RQDVFHQLFMRXUQH\DERDUGDYLQWDJHFRDOͫUHG the park into three sections; your vantage point
VWHDPWUDLQRQWKHRIͫFLDO'XUDQJR 6LOYHUWRQ will be the aptly named Island in the Sky in the
Narrow Gauge Railroad. The rail has been in north, a mesa rising more than 1,000 feet above
continuous use since 1882, and affords you an the terrain below, offering panoramic overlooks
ideal vantage point from which to take in the with visibility of more than 100 miles in every
unspoiled Colorado high country wilderness direction on a clear day.
of the San Juan mountains. You’ll navigate
From here, you can look out upon the other
a breathtaking route through tall forests,
two districts; cast your eye upon the sandstone
winding mountain passes, and rushing river
spires of The Needles, and the winding trails
UDSLGVͫQDOO\DUULYLQJLQ6LOYHUWRQ
of The Maze, which beckon intrepid hikers to
Lunch: On your own in Silverton—ask try and challenge them. Off in the distance,
your Program Director for local restaurant the snowcapped peaks of the La Sal Mountains
recommendations. stand as a backdrop to the primeval landscape
unfolding before your eyes.
Afternoon: Depart Silverton for Moab, your
next destination, and your gateway to discovery
in Arches and Canyonlands National Parks over
the coming days. You’ll arrive at your hotel
this evening.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
14Within the wilderness, a surprisingly diverse include Delicate Arch, a lone, free-standing
ecosystem thrives. You may see everything 65-foot loop of rock standing guard at the
from yellow-green pinyon pines sprouting SUHFLSLFHRIDVDQGVWRQHͫQ WKH'RXEOH2$UFK
from rocky niches, to scaly lizards basking in a pair of stone formations stacked on top of
the sun on their rocky perches. each other; and Balanced Rock, a 128-foot stone
pillar featuring a slick boulder precariously
You’ll enjoy time to explore the park and take
placed upon a narrow stone pedestal.
advantage of the ever-changing light to take
unforgettable photos. Following your visit to the park, you’ll return to
Moab, where the balance of the day is at leisure.
Lunch: A boxed lunch is included during your
tour of Canyonlands. Lunch/Afternoon: Yours to do as you please.
Your Program Director will be happy to
Afternoon: Return to Moab later this afternoon,
recommend a spot for lunch and free time
where the rest of the day is free for your own
activities.
discoveries—ask your Program Director for
recommendations. Dinner/Evening: Continue making independent
discoveries this evening, with dinner on your
Dinner: On your own—ask your Program
own. Ask your Program Director for restaurant
Director for local restaurant recommendations.
recommendations.
Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
rest of your evening as you wish—ask your Day 7 Moab • Visit Monument Valley •
Program Director for recommendations. Page, Arizona
• Destination: Page
Day 6 Moab • Visit Arches National Park • Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
• Destination: Moab • Accommodations: Courtyard by Marriott
• Included Meals: Breakfast or similar
• Accommodations: Sleep Inn & Suites Activity Note: Today’s transfer to Page is long,
or similar about 10 hours. We will make several stops
Activity Note: We have an early departure to along the way to break up our journey.
beat the heat and the crowds.
Breakfast: At the hotel.
Breakfast: At the hotel.
Morning: Bid farewell to Moab this morning as
Morning: Set out for an included tour of you set off toward new discoveries in Arizona.
Arches National Park, a geological playground
Lunch: Stop for an included lunch at
where the forces of nature got creative and left
Goulding’s Lodge, overlooking the fantastical
behind a whimsical collection of more than
red sandstone formations and wide mesas of
2,000 awe-inspiring red sandstone arches,
Monument Valley.
precariously balanced rocks, and rugged
monoliths. Afternoon: Continue on your way, stopping at a
scenic lookout for another breathtaking view of
(YHU\ZKHUH\RXWXUQ\RXUKHDGWKHUHVHHPVWR
Monument Valley. Arrive in Page, Arizona, later
be a physics-defying sight to take your breath
this evening.
away. Some of the park’s famous residents
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
15Dinner/Evening: Continue making independent Day 9 Page • Visit Grand Canyon •
discoveries this evening, with dinner on your Bryce Canyon
own. Ask your Program Director for restaurant
• Destination: Bryce Canyon
recommendations.
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodations: Best Western Bryce
Day 8 Page • Cruise Lake Powell
Canyon Grand Hotel or similar
• Optional Antelope Slot Canyon
Experience Activity Note: Today’s transfer to Bryce is long,
about 9 hours. We will make several stops along
• Destination: Page
the way to break up our journey.
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodations: Courtyard by Marriott Breakfast: At the hotel.
or similar
Morning: Marvel at the spectacular scenery
Activity Note: Due to the popularity of the as you travel toward Bryce Canyon today.
Antelope Slot Canyon, the optional tour is On the way, cross the Colorado River, take
subject to availability. If available, tour can in panoramic views of the canyons, deserts,
start as early as 6am. and spectacular cliffs that you pass in the
Navajo Nation, the largest reservation in the
Breakfast: At the hotel.
United States, and enjoy a brief stop at the
Morning: Head to Lake Powell after breakfast Navajo Bridge.
for a boat tour of Antelope Canyon, cruising
Then, visit the North Rim of the Grand Canyon,
through the lovely scenery featuring dramatic
which is wilder and more pristine than the
rock formations soaring out of the water.
more commercialized South Rim.
Formed in 1963 with the construction of the
Glen Canyon Dam, Lake Powell is 187 miles Lunch: Included upon arrival at the Grand
long, with almost 100 major side canyons, and a Canyon Lodge, where incredible views are
shoreline of more than 1,900 miles. VKRZFDVHGZLWKLWVͬRRUWRFHLOLQJZLQGRZV
Lunch: Included at the Lake Powell Resort, Afternoon: Spend more time after lunch at
accompanied by picturesque marina views. this most marvelous of our country’s natural
wonders—which Teddy Roosevelt described
Afternoon: Return to the hotel for an afternoon
as “the one great sight which every American
on your own.
should see.”
Or, join an optional tour to view Antelope
Continue on later in the afternoon to Bryce
Canyon from another stunning vantage
Canyon, stopping en route for a photo
point—on land, in a nimble vehicle. Ride into
opportunity at Red Canyon.
the canyon, where you’ll set off on an easy walk
to see its impressive natural sculptures of stone. Dinner: An included buffet-style meal is served
at a local hotel.
Dinner: Included at your hotel.
Evening: 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.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
16Day 10 Bryce Canyon • Visit Zion Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
National Park rest of your evening as you wish—ask your
Program Director for recommendations.
• Destination: Bryce Canyon
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 11 Visit Bryce Canyon National Park
• Accommodations: Best Western Bryce
• Salt Lake City
Canyon Grand Hotel or similar
• Destination: Salt Lake City
Breakfast: At the hotel.
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Morning: Spend the day exploring Zion • Accommodations: Little America Hotel
National Park on a self-guided tour, which or similar
encompasses the crossroads of the Mojave
Activity Note: Today’s transfer to Salt Lake City
Desert, Colorado Plateau, and Great Basin. See
is long, about 5 hours. We will stop along the
where red desert rocks mingle with crystal
way to break up our journey.
rivers, aspen forest, and lush green canyons at
this truly unique intersection of life zones, and Breakfast: At the hotel.
don’t forget to keep an eye on the sky—Zion is
Morning:(PEDUNRQDWRXURI%U\FH&DQ\RQ
home to golden eagles, peregrine falcons, and
National Park, a collection of natural
the rare endangered California condor.
amphitheaters carved out of pink limestone and
%HJLQ\RXUGLVFRYHULHVZLWKDVKRUWͫOPDW sandstone. The force of rivers, rain, frost, and
the Zion Visitor’s Center before a panoramic erosion has sculpted myriad whimsical rock
tour of the park. During your four hours of formations called hoodoos shaped in colorful
discoveries, you may see some of the following spires, bridges, and arches that resemble a
attractions: the Court of the Patriarchs; natural fairyland. Truly, it’s a photographer’s paradise.
hanging gardens with scenic views of Zion’s
The national park also contains majestic
most prominent mountain, the Great White
ponderosa pines and deep evergreen forests,
Throne; and Weeping Rock, where water seeps
DQGLVQDPHGIRUD0RUPRQIDUPHU(EHQH]HU
down from the cliff and forms a veil of “tears”
%U\FHZKRZDVRQHRIWKHͫUVWVHWWOHUVLQWKH
spanning the rock alcove.
DUHDDay 12 Depart Salt Lake City
• Included Meals: Breakfast
Breakfast: At the hotel.
Morning:7UDQVIHUWRWKHDLUSRUWIRU\RXUͬLJKW
home. Or begin your post-trip extension to Salt
Lake City & Santa Fe.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
18OPTIONAL TOURS
During your trip you will be able to book optional tours directly with your Program Director. He or she
ZLOODVN\RXWRFRQͫUPWKHSD\PHQWIRUWKHVHWRXUVE\ͫOOLQJRXWDSD\PHQWIRUP2SWLRQDOWRXUVFDQ
only be purchased with a credit or debit card. We accept Visa, MasterCard, and Discover credit cards.
We also accept Visa and MasterCard debit cards, but it must be a debit card that allows you to sign for
purchases.
In order to correctly process these charges, there can be a delay of 2-3 months from the date of your
return for the charges to be posted to your account. Therefore we ask that you use a card that will not
expire in the 2-3 months following your return.
Please note: Optional tour prices include gratuities for local guides and motorcoach drivers, are listed in U.S.
dollar estimates determined at the time of publication, and are subject to change. Optional tours may vary.
Antelope Slot Canyon Experience
(Day 8 $75 per person)
View Antelope Canyon from another stunning
vantage point—on land, in a nimble four-wheel
drive truck. Ride into the canyon, where you’ll
set off on an easy walk to see its impressive
natural sculptures of stone.
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: Denver
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 meet Breakfast: At the hotel.
your Program Director, who will discuss the
local neighborhood surrounding your hotel in Morning: Depart for a tour of Rocky Mountain
preparation for your orientation tomorrow. National Park. The Rocky Mountains are one
of the world’s premier mountain ranges, and
Dinner: On your own—ask your Program there are few better vantage points to take it all
Director for local restaurant recommendations. in than here.
Evening: You have the freedom to spend the (VFDSHWKHKXVWOHDQGEXVWOHRIFLYLOL]DWLRQ
rest of your evening as you wish—ask your and explore the unspoiled wilderness of the
Program Director for recommendations. 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 After your tour, the day is yours to explore the
PHDGRZVZDWFKEOXHELUGVDQGEXWWHUͬLHVͬLW cosmopolitan Colorado capital independently.
about the branches of thick pine forests, with
Lunch: On your own in Denver—ask your
golden eagles and peregrine falcons circling the
Program Director for local restaurant
skies above watching for unwary prey. Discover
recommendations.
UROOLQJWXQGUDFDUSHWHGLQFRORUIXOZLOGͬRZHUV
and enjoy the constant company of the craggy Afternoon: Free for your own discoveries—ask
mountain peaks beckoning in the distance. your Program Director for recommendations.
Lunch:(QMR\DQLQFOXGHGSLFQLFOXQFKLQ Dinner: Included at a local restaurant
the park. this evening.
Afternoon: Spend a few hours exploring Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
independently. You might choose to spend your rest of your evening as you wish—ask your
time seeing more of the Rockies, or perhaps Program Director for recommendations.
\RX̞OOVWUROOWKHVWUHHWVRI(VWHV3DUNDOLWWOH
town at the base of the mountain replete with
Day 4 Denver • Durango
charming shops, cafes, restaurants and beer
gardens. You’ll return to Denver later today. • Included Meals: Breakfast
Breakfast: At the hotel.
Dinner/Evening: Continue making independent
discoveries this evening, with dinner on your Morning: Fly to Durango, where you’ll begin
own. Ask your Program Director for restaurant your main Southwest National Parks: Arches,
recommendations. Zion, Bryce & the Grand Canyon vacation.
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
Salt Lake City & Santa Fe
INCLUDED IN YOUR PRICE
» Accommodations for 4 nights » ([FOXVLYHVHUYLFHVRID*UDQG&LUFOH
» 5 meals: 4 breakfasts, 1 dinner Program Director
» 3 included tours: Salt Lake City, » Gratuities for local guides and motorcoach
Santa Fe, Taos drivers on your extension and all
optional tours
» All transfers
POST-TRIP EXTENSION ITINERARY
Extend your journey with a night in Salt Lake City, the bustling capital of Utah and spiritual center of the
Mormon Church. Then unfold the dramatic history of New Mexico as you take in the laid-back pace of Taos
DQGWKH6SDQLVKSXHEORͬDYRURI6DQWH)H:LWKSOXQJLQJJRUJHVDQGUHGVWRQHPHVDVDV\RXUEDFNGURS\RX̞OO
be swept away by the dramatic beauty of the rugged Southwest.
Day 1 Explore Salt Lake City, Utah Lunch: On your own—ask your Program
Director for local restaurant recommendations.
• Destination: Salt Lake City
• Accommodations: Little America Hotel Afternoon: Free for your own discoveries—ask
or similar your Program Director for recommendations.
Morning: Tour Salt Lake City, site of the 2002
Dinner: On your own—ask your Program
Winter Olympics. Discover Temple Square,
Director for local restaurant recommendations.
world headquarters of the Mormon Church. The
massive temple, with its six spires, dominates Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
the square, which also features a monument rest of your evening as you wish—ask your
to Brigham Young and the “Three Witnesses Program Director for recommendations.
Monument,” honoring the three men who
WHVWLͫHGWKDWDQDQJHOVKRZHGWKHPWKHJROGHQ Day 2 Salt Lake City • Santa Fe,
plates from which the Book of Mormon was New Mexico
translated.
• Destination: Santa Fe
You’ll also marvel at the awesome Tabernacle, • Included Meals: Breakfast
dedicated in 1893, and famous for its amazing • Accommodations: Drury Plaza Hotel
acoustics and Mormon Tabernacle Choir. After or similar
your tour, the rest of the day is yours to spend
Breakfast: At the hotel.
at leisure in the city.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
22Morning:7UDQVIHUWRWKHDLUSRUWDQGͬ\WR Dinner: Gather with your fellow travelers
Albuquerque, New Mexico. After arriving, begin this evening for a Farewell Dinner at a local
your transfer to Santa Fe. restaurant.
Lunch: On your own upon arrival in Santa Evening: Continue making independent
Fe—ask your Program Director for local discoveries this evening.
restaurant recommendations.
Afternoon: The rest of the day is yours to relax Day 4 Explore Santa Fe
or explore Santa Fe independently. • Destination: Santa Fe
• Included Meals: Breakfast
Dinner: On your own—ask your Program
• Accommodations: Drury Plaza Hotel
Director for local restaurant recommendations.
or similar
Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
Breakfast: At the hotel.
rest of your evening as you wish—ask your
Program Director for recommendations. Morning: Set off on a city tour of Santa Fe.
Discover the city’s downtown area, which has
Day 3 Santa Fe • Visit Taos EHHQDUFKLWHFWXUDOO\XQLͫHGDURXQG6SDQLVK
Pueblo Revival style for more than a century.
• Destination: Santa Fe
You’ll also explore the shops and galleries of
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner Canyon Road, the modern-day spin on the old
• Accommodations: Drury Plaza Hotel mountain trade routes.
or similar
Then see the Romanesque St. Francis of Assisi
Breakfast: At the hotel.
Cathedral, which has featured in the creative
Morning: Depart for Taos and enjoy a guided works of writers such as Willa Cather and
walk downtown, where adobe buildings SDLQWHUVOLNH(GZDUG+RSSHUDQGLVKRPHWR/D
surround the central plaza. Continue on to Conquistadora, America’s oldest statue of the
WKH7DRV3XHEORD81(6&2:RUOG+HULWDJH Blessed Virgin Mary.
Site which boasts homes built as long as a
Your tour concludes at the Georgia O’Keeffe
millennium ago, where one of the local college
Museum, where you’ll peruse 83 years’ worth
students, many of whom grew up in the pueblo,
of the artist’s work, as well as insights into the
will take you on a tour.
SUROLͫFZRPDQ̞VFUHDWLYHPXVHV$IWHU\RXU
Next, you’ll visit the Rio Grande Gorge, a tour, you’ll have the rest of the afternoon to
50-mile gorge plunging 800 feet at its deepest, explore Santa Fe as you please.
and soak in the dramatic vistas. View the chasm
Lunch: On your own—ask your Program
from the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge, a steel-deck
Director for local restaurant recommendations.
bridge set 565 feet above the river (making it
the seventh highest in the country). Afternoon: Free for your own discoveries—ask
your Program Director for recommendations.
Lunch/Afternoon: Yours to do as you please.
Your Program Director will be happy to Dinner: On your own—ask your Program
recommend a spot for lunch and free time Director for local restaurant recommendations.
activities.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
23Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
rest of your evening as you wish—ask your
Program Director for recommendations.
Day 5 Santa Fe • Albuquerque •
Return home
• Included Meals: Breakfast
Breakfast: At the hotel. For travelers with early
morning departures, a boxed breakfast will be
made available.
Morning: Travel to Albuquerque for your
ͬLJKWKRPH
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
24ADDITIONAL 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.
25CONTENTS
TRAVEL DOCUMENTS & ENTRY REQUIREMENTS . . . . . . . . . . . .N/A
RIGORS, VACCINES & GENERAL HEALTH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27
MONEY MATTERS: LOCAL CURRENCY & TIPPING GUIDELINES . . .30
Top 3 Suggestions
Local Currency
Tipping Guidelines
AIR, OPTIONAL TOURS & STAYING IN TOUCH . . . . . . . . . . . . .32
PACKING: WHAT TO BRING & LUGGAGE LIMITS . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35
CLIMATE & AVERAGE TEMPERATURES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39
ABOUT YOUR DESTINATIONS: CULTURE, ETIQUETTE & MORE . . .42
Culture & Points to Know
Shopping
DEMOGRAPHICS & HISTORY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44
RESOURCES: SUGGESTED READING & MOVIES. . . . . . . . . . . . . .48
26RIGORS, 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
• 5 locations in 12 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
• 3 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 almost 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.
27This 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.
30You 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.
31AIR, OPTIONAL TOURS & STAYING IN TOUCH Land Only Travelers & Personalized Air ŽĢóĴ'āƩłĢŶĢŋłŭ • Land Only:
• Air Itineraries::H̞OOEHVHQGLQJ\RXDSUHOLPLQDU\ͬLJKWLWLQHUDU\̜DQGSRVWLQJLWRQOLQHLQ
My Account—no later than 100 days prior to your departure. (If you booked your trip inside
100 days, then expect it a week or two after booking.) Due to restrictions from the airlines,
DLULWLQHUDULHVFDQQRWEHFRQͫUPHGPRUHWKDQGD\VEHIRUH\RXUWUDYHOGDWHV,I\RXKDYH
booked your trip a year in advance, we cannot send you a preliminary itinerary or answer
TXHVWLRQVDERXW\RXUͬLJKWVXQWLO\RXDUHLQVLGHWKLVGD\VWLPHOLQH
• Flight Delays:*UDQG&LUFOH7UDYHOLVQRWUHVSRQVLEOHIRUͬLJKWGHOD\VRUFDQFHOODWLRQV,Q
WKHXQIRUWXQDWHFLUFXPVWDQFHWKDW\RXUͬLJKWLVGHOD\HGRUFKDQJHGSOHDVHWU\WRUHDFK
WKHUHJLRQDO*&7RIͫFH WKHLUQXPEHUZLOOEHLQ\RXU)LQDO'RFXPHQWV 'XHWRDLUOLQH
UHJXODWLRQVRXUVWDIILVQRWQRWLͫHGRIͬLJKWUHURXWLQJDQG\RXU3URJUDP'LUHFWRUZRQ̞W
necessarily be aware of your new arrival time.
• Flying with a Travel Companion: If you’re traveling with a companion from a different
household, and both of you are beginning and ending your trip at the same airport on the
same dates, let us know you’d like to travel together and we’ll make every effort to arrange
this (please note, however, that this is not always possible). If you request any changes to
\RXUͬLJKWVSOHDVHEHVXUHWKDWERWK\RXDQG\RXUFRPSDQLRQWHOOXVWKDW\RXVWLOOZDQWWR
ͬ\WRJHWKHU
All Travelers: Check Your License or ID
What are you checking for? To see if is compliant with the Real ID Act, passed in 2005 (and also to
FRQͫUPWKDWLWZRQ̞WH[SLUHEHIRUH\RXUWULS
6WDUWLQJ2FWREHU\RXPXVWKDYHD5HDO,'FRPSOLDQWGRFXPHQWLQRUGHUWRͬ\
domestically within the U.S. Passports and passport cards are Real ID compliant and will be
DFFHSWHGEXWRQO\VRPHVWDWHLVVXHG,'VZLOOZRUN,I\RXSODQWRͬ\RQRUDIWHU2FWREHUZLWK
your driver’s license or state ID, double-check that is Real ID compliant. Most Real ID licenses will
have a star logo in the top right corner and/or have the word “enhanced” printed on them. If you
DUHXQVXUHDERXW\RXU,'FKHFNZLWK\RXUORFDO'09RUDSSURSULDWHJRYHUQPHQWRIͫFH$QGJLYH
yourself enough time to renew your license if needed—the change is expected to cause delays.
Optional Tours
Optional tours are additional add-on tours that allow you to personalize your vacation by
WDLORULQJLWWR\RXUWDVWHVDQGQHHGV$QGLI\RXGHFLGHQRWWRMRLQDQRSWLRQDOWRXU"7KHQ\RX̞OO
have free time to relax or explore on your own—it’s about options, not obligations.
What You Need to Know
• $OORSWLRQDOWRXUVDUHVXEMHFWWRFKDQJHDQGDYDLODELOLW\
• Optional tours that are reserved with your Program Director can be paid for using credit/
debit cards only. We accept MasterCard, Visa, and Discover credit cards; we can also take
MasterCard or Visa debit cards as long as the card allows you to sign for purchases. (You
won’t be able to enter a PIN.)
33You can also read
