Before You travel

Do I need a passport?
Yes. A valid passport is required to leave the USA. It should be valid for a minimum of six months after your departure date. If you do not have a passport, apply for one immediately. Because of the high volume of passport requests made since new travel requirements for US Citizens were enacted it currently you should allow 10-12 weeks for a passport to be issued. Through expedited processing, which carries an additional cost, a passport may be obtained in about 2 weeks. Visit the US Department of State website for more information. http://travel.state.gov/.

Will I need an additional form of identification?
Yes. Due to heightened security measure, in addition to your passport, you should bring a second form of picture ID, such as a driver's license. It is a good idea to make copies of the photo page of your passport and leave it with someone at home you will be able to easily contact and keep a copy of your passport with you while traveling.

How do I get a passport?
Obtain an application at your nearest passport office, courthouse, or post office. You will need a certified birth certificate (with raised seal and file number), and 2 duplicate non-glossy photographs measuring 2" x 2", taken within six months of application. For more info regarding passports you can go online to http://travel.state.gov/.

Getting There

NOTE: Due to increased security at the airports, we recommend arriving at least two to three hours prior to departure for domestic flights. Arrive at the departure airport at least four hours prior to departure for international flights (whenever possible). On your return flight you will want to allow at least two to three hours to clear customs and board your domestic flight.

Who is responsible for any airline schedule changes and/or expenses?
All flight times are subject to change by the airlines without advance notice. Priority Travel & Tours is not responsible for changes and/or delays in airline schedules, nor the expenses associated with such changes.

What if I miss my flight, or it is canceled on the day of departure?
Contact our office immediately so we can inform our European and Holy Land Offices. The airline's responsibility is to get you to your destination as quickly as possible. Be sure to call our office with your new arrival information so we can meet you at the airport.

How much luggage am I allowed to bring?
Due to limited space available on buses for luggage, only ONE suitcase (limited to approximately 44 lbs) and one carry-on bag per person is allowed.

Suggestion for packing:
If you are traveling as a couple, you may want to pack clothes for both in each suitcase. This way, if one suitcase is lost, each person will have clothing to wear.

At the Hotel

What about my luggage?
Upon arriving at the hotel the porters will take your luggage to your room.

What are the hotel rooms like?
All hotels are rated Four or Five Star Hotels. Each room will have a private bath, TV, and phone.

What meals are included in my journey?
Breakfast and dinner are included. Coffee or tea are served at breakfast but beverages at dinner may be at a supplemental charge.

How long is the typical sightseeing day?
On some days, you will depart the hotel between 7:00-9:00AM and return in the late afternoon around 5:00-6:00PM. Our guide will announce the sightseeing schedule.

General Informtion

What is the bus like?
We use deluxe touring motor coaches which are air conditioned.

Are there rest rooms on the bus?
No, but sufficient stops will be made for the comfort of our passengers.

How much money should I bring?
Most everything has been included in your tour cost with the exception of lunches, shopping, optional tours (where applicable). Your tour leader will be able to make recommendations specific for your group.

Will I be able to shop while during the tour?
Time is allowed for shopping. If you are dissatisfied with any item purchased from a shop to which you were brought to by our guide, please contact us, and Priority Travel & Tours will work to resolve the issue. Other purchases made are at your own risk.

What about "appreciation offering" for our guides and drivers?
Our suggested amount for the voluntary appreciation offering is $3.50 per person/per day for your guide and $1.50 per person/per day for your driver. Toward the end of your trip, your tour leader will collect the appreciation offerings.

What about other "tips"?
Tips for all standard services for the following staff persons: hotel dining room staff, bell man/porters, housekeeping will be pre-paid by tour members and the tips will be distributed by our guide while on the tour. Prepaid gratuities will be collected at the airport before our departure from the USA. You will not need to individually tip for standard services during the tour. If, however, you request any special services from the staff, additional gratuities are expected.

Should I bring my prescription medicines?
Bring your medicine in the original bottle. Also bring a copy of the generic names for each.

A medical ID bracelet or a note from your doctor regarding any special treatments you are receiving will prove invaluable in the event of an emergency. Always carry medication that is needed on a daily basis in your carry-on.

Is there any free-time during program?
Each day is quite full with sightseeing but you can notify your guide if you wish to miss a day of touring (itinerary permitting).