Super-Yachting On the French & Italian Rivieras

AFS Trip Tips

 Prepare to be thrilled for a five star luxury cruise that you’ll never forget. 

Connect now with each other on your private group Facebook page. If you’re looking for the Facebook group page link, it’s in your welcome letter when you deposit it.  This amazing cruise vacation will be here before you know it! 

Trip Tips are designed to answer trip-related questions. It’s your responsibility to read this information.  Updates and addendums will be posted here.  Some travelers have lost their entire trip for not reading what we send on visas, air details, inoculations, etc.  Check back from time to time.

PAYMENT DATES:  50 % due APR 8 50% and MAY 8 finaly    Wetravel is our booking management company. It allows you to pay by check electronically without a fee. Please follow the instructions below. If you choose to pay with a credit card, a processing fee at the time of purchase the amount displayed in the upper right-hand corner of your payment screen. To pay online for free, simply enter your checking account routing and account numbers. Alternatively, you can write a check to Adventures For Solo Travelers. Include trip name of country name so that we can apply it correctly. Then text a picture of the check to 770-432-8225, and we will enter your payment without any a processing fee.

Your fearless GTL (Gracious Trip Leader, not a guide but a liaison between our guides and group to ensure things run smoothly). TBA

Trip Prep:
• Read the revised Heading Abroad with AFS, especially if you are new to AFS.
• Ensure your passport is valid 6 months after return date with two blank pages – these are Visa pages, not addendum pages.  Take a photo of your passport to store in the cloud or bring a copy. If you lose your passport, US embassies now except a digital copy from your email.
• To speed through US Customs download Mobile Passport. Look in your App Store for details.
• Notify bank and cc company of travel dates so they don’t block charges.
• All airline rules differ. It is imperative to read your airline rules on their website to ensure a smooth departure! Always check your flight before departure.

Fitness level – Moderate trip with moderate walks daily.  Our ship has an elevator must be able to board smaller inflatable boats and do uphill walking tours. (Know your limits! AFS trips are generally soft adventures with moderate activity. All tours involve walking, at times extensive with uneven pavement. As we age, we think we can do what we used to do but discover on the trip an activity is too strenuous and are slowing down the entire group. You may consider Eldertreks. We cannot be responsible for booking a trip beyond your skill level and physical stamina. Please be respectful of your fellow AFS Travelers and consider choosing an itinerary that is more conducive to your needs so you can thoroughly enjoy your trip!)

General Air Info –  Route changes can happen now. Airlines must notify you of such and protect you if problem with flight.  Consider flying in early to ensure you’ll be there once trip begins.   Always download and use your airlines app! Use app to track your booking, delays, bags, to show boarding pass and to contact them. If you have a flight problem go to the airline’s website “contact us” page or reach them by text, social media, Skype or call their international number.  Also, premium credit cards often offer many air perks, assistance, insurance, lounge passes, global entry and more. Read more at www.tpg.com for best cards.

Flying business class?  Many but don’t realize fares range from 4K to 9K. We do have two good contacts for AFS that can get seats at nearly half cost by combining award miles….  ali@above9.travel  Ph. (855) 777-6336 or britney@business-class.com 305-390-4132 or see skylux.com or business-class.com.  Tell them Suzy sent you.

Group Air:  None. Sometimes we offer group air but find few people book sometimes find better rates on own direct from hometown.  This provides you better flexibility to go early or extend at trip end.  I know we will not meet the minimum required to make a group booking since this is a small group.

Important Air Dates –   Roundtrip USA to Rome.  Land begins AUG 8.

Dozens of airlines fly to Rome – Delta, Air France, KLM, American, British Airways, Lufthansa, United, Emirates, and more. Use Google flights and put in their fare alerts when prices may drop. Nonstops are more expensive. Cheapest departure city is JFK. I love to break up long journeys with stopovers pre-or post trip to add another destination. Check if you have credit card miles to use on a domestic leg to your gateway.

Doing Own Air–  We like Google Flights.  3rd-party booking engines like Expedia, make it easy to book, but it is nearly impossible to handle air problems.  Buy direct from airline or pay a travel agent to ticket you.  If you need help air with the economy seat,  our guy Delhi can help; email flights@diversedestination.com with your exact air dates, destination, passport name, and details with birthdate.

Doing Own Air & A/P Transfers–  Our trip officially begins on Aug 8 in Rome.

(With travelers arriving and departing on different days and times, it is insurmountable to manage. Group air airport transfers are based on set time. Without group air, there can no longer be any pick-ups or drop-offs.  Unfortunately, now like other tour companies, transfers are your responsibility. (We’ve spent weeks each trip making spreadsheets of each person’s air to send to the supplier and then flights change. We then hire a guide, driver and pay airport parking fees. Last year in groups only half showed up as guides waited hours looking for others. Sometimes no AFSers showed up without informing us.) Transfers are not expensive. First, google your arrival airport website to see transfer tab. More details later.Suggestions to appear like airport bus, taxi details, Uber and more. Then connect on group Facebook page to set up sharing transfer cost if you like.  If you go early and check-in AFS hotel before group arrives, it’s your responsibility to change rooms with your roommate if necessary day one when trip begins.)

Meet Up With Group- Again, we meet on Aug 8 at HOTEL TBD

Baggage– Think light to ease your burden, not like you’re fleeing your homeland.   1 carry-on bag & 1 medium suitcase not to exceed 45lb checked bag – weigh on a bathroom scale.   Leave space for great souvenirs. Be sure to attach ID inside and out of carry-on and checked bag.

Packing-   This trip is so easy. Simply pack summer clothing with a light jacket for nights and long flights.  Umbrella, hat, comfy sneakers, all hotels have hair dryers.

Dress Code – Our cruises are informal, and guests are dressed casually. We also advise you to bring comfortable footwear for sightseeing excursions, and a lightweight windbreaker/ jacket for possible cooler evenings. We also recommend that you try your best to pack lightly, although there is space to store your suitcases under the bed and additional wardrobe hanging space.

Light Summer Clothes – The temperature in Greece will be in the upper 80’s and 90’s, so during the day you will be wearing shorts, light dresses and swimwear. In the evenings, guys will be in shorts or perhaps jeans and ladies will be in light summer dresses or jeans and a top. Sandals or flat shoes are probably the best option during the day.

Comfortable non-Slip Shoes – For the excursions its important you wear comfortable non-slip shoes as you will be walking across various types of terrain during the week.

Sunglasses and a Hat – Don’t forget to pack a pair of sunglasses and a hat as you will need it both during the daily cruising and also for the excursions. Although it’s dry season, bring an umbrella. Also don’t forget your swim gear, wet shoes and a day pack.  Leave your Beach Towel at Home – There are towels provided on the boat, so save the space in your luggage and leave your towel at home.  Sunscreen is a Must – Please remember to pack sunscreen with a decent SPF level as it is almost the peak of the Summer when you travel to Greece.

Read Packing 101 in Heading Abroad with AFS

Cool travel hacks from our AFSers! Pack overnight outfit in your carry-on, liquid IV packets to hydrate, use packing cubes, downy wrinkle spray, Apple AirTags, extra nylon bag to check laundry home, tons of US dollars for extra tips, fully charged travel banks, less is more, get global entry.

Electric– US to Europe Plug Adaptors  – Please make sure you bring plug adaptors with you which are US to Euro type C . We suggest bringing 2 with you should you need to charge multiple devices.

Don’t forget a portable backup charger, cords, gadgets, etc. Cell phones and tablets do not need a converter; you only need an adapter plug.  AFSers often leave charger cords in room, so be sure to double-check your room before check out. All properties have hairdryers.  See https://www.power-plugs-sockets.com

Money Matters – Always bring some cash!  You will need some cash for personal tipping, meals, and shopping. $300 cash should suffice.    Change currency on arrival at airport, bank, or hotels or withdraw local currency from an ATM.  Note -independent ATMs are risky due to skimmer scams. Safest ATMs are at airport and banks. Always shield your pin number when entering.  Bring newer bills 2016 on as some countries won’t take old or slightly damaged bills.

Master Card and Visa widely accepted.  Amex rarely accepted except at hotels.   Credit cards are far safer than using your debit card. I use my credit card for most purchases.  Many cards now offer no foreign transaction fees.

Currency  Exchange Rate   $1=1.12 EU

Follow the link below to create a conversion cheat sheet

https://www.oanda.com/currency/travel-exchange-rates

Gratuities –  See ship suggestion below for the crew, guides and drives.  Tipping on own –  If service is stellar, feel free to give more directly.  All we tourists leave behind is our reputation. I carry a stash of US ones in an envelope to draw from as needed.

Communication– Internet is available onboard. With smartphones, be sure to check with your provider for rates and coverage for international phone plans before departure. Data Roaming rates can be expensive. To reach home – Texting, iMessage, WhatsApp, and Facebook messaging when using WIFI. Be cautious using public Wi-Fi without using VPN. Without VPN never open attachments or view financial or personal accounts on the Internet while abroad.  Phone calls, text messages, and data usage of all kinds, it is crucial to understand that, unless you are connected to Wi-Fi, every use of your phone incurs a data toll. That means that viewing and downloading email, browsing the web, viewing social media, and mapping all incur data charges, as do applications that we sometimes assume to be “free,” such as Skype and WhatsApp. Unless you are connected to Wi-Fi, however, WhatsApp is using cellular data, so you are getting charged at your provider’s international roaming data rate.  Facebook Messenger Phone is an easy free way to make calls.

About the Elysium ship In Greece, we operate on board the Elysium, a boutique expedition vessel which is a 4 star ship accommodating up to 48 guests. The vessel was built in 1998 and refurbished in 2017 and 2021 and has an abundance of space for guests to relax and unwind.

The Daily Schedule –  tba

Fitness & Wellness Activities – The Elysium offers guests the ability to do complimentary pilates classes several times during the cruise. There is also a spa on board which offers traditional Balinese and traditional massages on board. This is a paid service which can be booked on board the boat.

 Excursions – waiting for schedule to be posted

Use of Tenders – During the cruise the yacht will be docked in certain ports and the crew will use the boats tenders to get guests to shore in destinations where the boat is not able to dock. The tenders carry up to 10 people at a time.

Sea Sickness – If you suffer from sea or motion sickness, we suggest you bring anti-nausea medication or sea sickness bands which go around your wrists. The weather in June in Greece is usually warm with calm seas but this is not guaranteed, so we do advise you to bring necessary medication in case.

Laundry Facilities – There is laundry service available on the Elysium, which guests can pay to use with a typically same day or on a 24-hour turnaround.

Wi-Fi – There is free Wi-Fi on board the Elysium but please be mindful that signal can be patchy during periods where the boat is sailing between islands and signal strength is weaker.

Tipping  is included with your boarding pass. 

Paying your Bar Bill – During the cruise you will be able to charge any drinks consumed to your cabin. On the last day of the cruise, your bar bill can be paid by VISA or MasterCard at the bar.

Airport Departure Transfers – Our Cruise Director will coordinate your departure to either Rome Airport or to your hotel in Athens (if you are staying on). He will group those of you on similar flights so you go to the airport together.

Shopping – Shore excursion shopping in the Italian Riviera offers a delightful experience filled with luxury boutiques, charming artisan shops, and local markets. Visitors can explore picturesque coastal towns like Portofino, Cinque Terre, and Santa Margherita Ligure, where they’ll find a variety of high-end fashion brands, handcrafted jewelry, and unique souvenirs that reflect the region’s rich culture. The vibrant atmosphere is enhanced by stunning views of the Mediterranean, making each shopping trip not just a retail experience but also a scenic adventure. Whether it’s designer goods or authentic local crafts, the Italian Riviera promises an unforgettable shopping experience alongside breathtaking coastal beauty.

Amending tour pre-or post-trip. We honor your independent spirit, but encourage you to extend more days at the trip’s end when you’re acclimated well to the destination.  If you add another country, we often see many AFSers on Facebook urging others to join them what do you consider the cost of tours, transport, hotels, etc.  Stopovers are great to add, but understand AFS has no responsibility for the quality of your trip.

Private Facebook Group Page  –  The benefit of the Private FB Group Page is that you have an opportunity to introduce yourself to your fellow travelers before departure and share trip photos during and after the tour.  The link can be found in your Wetravel welcome letter after your initial deposit.  (We found that some never read the Trip Tips jumping right to the Private FB Group Page assuming they will get all trip info needed. Often, they only receive rumors or misinformation. All important information is ALWAYS emailed to each participant and posted in Trip Tips under UPDATES. Nobody misses a thing.)

Emergency Contact – AFS phone or text 770-432-8225, or email us at https://www.afstravelers.com/contact-us/    More contacts will be provided with your Final Docs email 2 to 3 weeks before departure. Your guide can handle a call home for a true emergency. Do not expect to use your trip leader’s cell phone; you’ll need to use your own.

Cancellation Penalty –  At booking, we sent you our terms and conditions. Click here for our Terms & Conditions  and here for for Cancellation refund policy   In part it states “a written request for cancellation through email or text with your name and cancellation specifics to 770-432-8225.

Travel Insurance– While travel insurance is optional, in today’s world we highly encourage you to get standard coverage to cover trip interruption and cancellation.  Best source for all is www.insuremytrip.com.

Click here to Purchase Travel Insurance online

Travel Psychology 101  – Prepare for your departure joyfully with no contempt before investigation upon arrival. Please understand that with travel, things are not like at home and changes may occur. Great trips work best for those with an open mind, flexible attitude and adventuresome spirit.  If changes occur, embrace them with serendipity. Who knows?… The unexpected may prove to be a better experience.  Adapt and go with the flow with a laid-back attitude.  Be spontaneous. Be tolerant of foreign cultures in respecting their centuries of traditions. Embrace the differences. Be curious, not shy. Smile – locals will sense your energy of kindness and kindness always begets kindness.  Our common goal is to experience different cultures, make new friends, get great photos, have large fun, and return home safely with memories worthy of recollection.

The best spirit of an Explorer requires the openness of a child – Suzy

“When traveling, remember that a foreign country isn’t designed to make you comfortable.  It’s designed to make its own people comfortable.” – Clinton Fadiman

Please note that AFS is non-partisan – With our homogeneous groups, we all want to focus on the common denominator – our love of travel.  In today’s divisive world, we suggest members not discuss politics and if you must, please practice my rule of TOK:  Tolerance, Open-mindedness and Kindness.

Embark on a luxurious Mediterranean cruise aboard a private 360′ super yacht for an unforgettable voyage of a lifetime. Experience the beauty of the French and Italian Riviera, with exclusive access to ports unreachable by larger cruise ships. Indulge in the elegance and sophistication of the MS Sakara, with only 100 guests onboard for a truly intimate experience. Explore vibrant ports of call such as Tuscany, Cinque Terre, Portofino, Corsica, Monaco, and Nice, each offering unique sights and experiences. With world-class cuisine, breathtaking views, and a variety of excursions available, this is the ultimate Vitamin Sea getaway.