Hey there, congrats on finding the ever-important Trip Tip page!   Now that you’re here make sure to read these trip tips carefully! They’re here to help answer any questions you may have and ensure you have an awesome vacation. Don’t forget to bookmark this page and stay on top of any updates we post here. Treat it like meeting deadlines for taxes, mortgage payments, or car loans – staying organized and informed will make your trip stress-free and enjoyable.

Prepare to be thrilled by ..,. Our past to AFS groups rated in their “best vacation ever.” You are wise to choose this exotic country with us as it is too challenging to do on your own with all the regulations to follow. We’ve got you covered. Just start reading up on it before you go. The history here is fascinating. Our itinerary is an explorer’s delight with mystical monasteries, ancient temples stunning stupas and active fun.

We have a wonderful group of xx solo travel lovers so far. We need more so please tell your friends. Some of you are extending after AFS Nepal whereas some have visited Nepal and are doing Bhutan on its own. For now, connect with each other on your private group Facebook page and revel in the anticipation of joy ahead 

Trip Tips are designed to answer trip-related questions. It’s your responsibility to read this information.  Updates and addendums will be posted here.  Check back from time to time.  

  • FINAL PAYMENT DUE ____  Our data management company, Wetravel, lets you pay by check online at no extra fees. Follow the simple steps entering your routing and account number.  For credit cards, there is a processing fee upon purchase that will be listed in the upper right hand corner at booking. This helps us keep our costs low, so we can give you the best prices. If you prefer, you can write a check to AFS and text us a photo of it to 770-432-8225 with the country name in the memo and we will apply your payment for free. 

Your fearless GTL (The Gracious Trip Leader isn’t a formal guide, but we do hire licensed experts for that purpose. Our role is to mediate between the group and the guides to ensure a seamless experience.)

BIO

=======================================================

Trip Prep:

  • Read the revised Heading Abroad with AFS, especially if you are new to AFS.
  • Check passport expiration date and ensure your passport is valid 6 months after return date with two blank pages.  We recommend renewing your passport well ahead of any planned international travel. 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. Consider getting Mobile Passport, Global Entry which includes TSA pre-check or Clear 
  • Notify bank and cc company of travel dates so they don’t block charges.  
  • Vaccines – Bring your vaccine card.  Don’t laminate vaccine card as some countries won’t accept it.  You can take photo of both sides and store on phone. 
  • All airline rules differ.  It is imperative to read your airline rules on their website to ensure a smooth departure!  Airlines are in the process of making routing and scheduling changes now. Always check your flight before departure.  
  • VISA – Details will be emailed and entered here.  No shots needed.  

Fitness level – Know your limits! AFS trips are generally soft adventure with moderate activity. All included extensive walking. 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 Elder Trek. We cannot be responsible for booking a trip beyond your skill level and physical stamina. Please be respectful of you of your fellow AFS Travelers and consider choosing an itinerary that is more conducive to your needs so you can thoroughly enjoy your trip!

This is a fitness trip you must be in good physical shape.  For example you should be able to complete 5k in 40 mins.

 

General Air Info – Now it’s best to get air sooner than later as fares expected to soar. Many 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.  Many say they want to fly business class but don’t realize fare range from 4K to 9K. We do have two good contacts that can get the sea seats at nearly half cost. Alen@skylux.com or ali@business–class.com. Tell them Suzy sent you. 

Group Air with Airport Hotel Transfers  It’s easy and hassle-free to travel together.  We arranged XX seats on award-winning xx Airlines at an excellent rate and schedule. If you choose group air, we will add the fare to your invoice. Group Air may fill up quickly, so email us to book this rate. Put AFS XXXXGroup Air in the email subject. Include your name and we will add you. (Note – The card used for your Initial Deposit will be charged $100 for reserving your air seat, and if you change your mind you lose air deposit.     We need a minimum of 12 to 16 people for the airline to consider this a group.  Group air tickets cannot be upgraded.  If not enough want Group Air, we will release our seats and apply your air deposit to the final balance and give you instructions for booking your own air.). 

PUT AIR SCHEDULE HERE

Check-in at XX counter at the XX airport 3 hours before departure at XX time on DATE.  Upon return on XX date, allow 2 hours to connect to your flight home. 

No group air on this as a minimum number of seats are needed and I know from past experience, we will not reach such. Everyone wants small groups and for group air, we need to draw from large group to reach the minimum number that only a large group can provide.   

About Options and Group Transfer Headcounts – The process of booking AFS optional tours and arranging group transfers entails obtaining a final headcount for our suppliers. We communicate with the group through multiple emails and texts, requesting a simple yes or no response. Unfortunately, some never respond.  As a result of difficulties in keeping up with individual responses, we are unable to chase after every non-responsive member. It is imperative to note 15 days before final payment due date no changes, additions, or switching can be made. This is not within our control, but rather a policy set by overseas operators who must make arrangements for coaches, guides, etc. well in advance of the group’s arrival. Please keep this in mind as you make your travel plans.

Doing Own Air– 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.   We recommend you now book flexible air tickets that can be refunded or changed.  (For decades, AFS presented group air to make your trip totally hassle-free. Guides greet you on airport arrival and if any flight changes, we had your back.  Sadly now, only around 10% want group air and often meet can’t minimum.) 

We like Google Flights, Kayak or Momondo.  3rd-party booking engines like Expedia, make it near impossible to handle air problems.  Buy direct from airline or pay a travel agent to ticket you.  Buy travel insurance and have a flight backup plan.  If you need help air,  our guy Delhi can help, email flights@diversedestination.com with your exact air dates, destination, passport name and details with birthdate.   

Also, Ali from Above9 Travel or SkyLux can help you with business class seats by combining award points and cash.  ali@above9.travel  Ph. ‭(855) 777-6336‬ x1015 or Alen Monvel at SkyLux Travel, Direct Line: 844-207-1756. alen@skyluxtravel.com

Airport Transfers-  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. 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- On Day 1 a time will be set to meet the group at the hotel for a briefing. More on this later.

Baggage– Think light to ease your burden, not like you’re fleeing your homeland.  You change hotel properties several times. 1 carry-on bag& 1 medium suitcase not to exceed 45lb checked bag – weigh on a bathroom scale.  If you overpack by adding pre-or post-trip luggage, make prior plans as to where to stow the excess luggage. You may be responsible for any overage charges. Apple AirTags work great to track checked bags when the airline cannot, also good for carry-on.   Leave space for great souvenirs. Be sure to attach ID inside and out of carry-on and checked bag. 

Meet Up With Group- On Day 1 a time will be set to meet the group at the hotel for a briefing. More on this later.

Baggage– Think light to ease your burden, not like you’re fleeing your homeland.  You change hotel properties several times. 1 carry-on bag& 1 medium suitcase not to exceed 45lb checked bag – weigh on a bathroom scale.  If you overpack by adding pre-or post-trip luggage, make prior plans as to where to stow the excess luggage. You may be responsible for any overage charges. Apple AirTags works great to track checked bags when the airline cannot, also good for carry-on.    The new hard cases are difficult to fit in safari vehicles. Leave space for great souvenirs. Be sure to attach ID inside and out of carry-on and checked bag. 

Packing – (Winter vs. Beach) Check Google Weather a week prior to departure. Temps should be in the XXX.  Read Packing 101 in Heading Abroad with AFS

 This trip is so easy and totally casual. Simply pack summer clothing with a light jacket for nights and long flights. Think umbrella, daypack, wide-brim hat, sunscreen, comfy sneakers, … swimsuit, beach gear, wet shoes. 

Gifts for local children-school/orphanage – kids love balloons, puppets, lollipops, school supplies.) / modesty

Cool Travel Hacks from AFSers!  Pack an 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 $1 USD for extra tips, fully charge travel bank, get Global Entry, less is more.

Electric– 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. $400 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.   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. (Some countries in Africa and Asia require new bills dated after 2016. Older bills not accepted when changing money.)

Gratuities – (Prepaid)  It’s protocol to tip our local guides, assistants, porters, wait staff, drivers and ground staff. Guidelines have increased globally, but around $10 to $15 per day should cover all for the trip.  A $xx total will be added to your invoice. Please understand this is only the suggested minimum.  For ease of distribution, your GTL will tip the different ground services for the entire group each day.  

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. Porters – AFSers roll bags to their room.  If you use a porter, please tip.  For group lunches or dinners included, please leave $2 for waitstaff!

—————————————————————————————-

Communication– Internet is available. 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.  

Get Smart: Avoiding Hackers on Vacation.  Thieves not only want your money but also your data.    Change passwords often. Check device security settings before you leave for your trip. Back up, update, and encrypt your devices and data using a virtual VPN.

  • Bottled water is always best abroad, as our gut isn’t accustomed to local tap water. 
  • Remind full of pickpockets in big cities, especially at night.  Never carry your passport outside of the room.
  • Grab a business card from hotel before heading out on own to show taxi driver where to go.   
  • Travel health – Drink bottled water. Avoid street foods. Bring Imodium. .  Load up on antioxidants like vitamin C to zinc. (Need meds or shots? Book a Tele-chat with a travel doctor for shots and meds at runwayhealth.com)

Health – Bring Imodium just in case. All our meals are pure and water is filtered. Bottled water provided throughout. Don’t use ice outside hotels. (Poverty – India, you’ll see an eyeful of poverty omnipresent. The beauty is found in its humanity with dignity inherent in the spirit of the people here who possess virtues of simplicity, hard work, gentleness and perseverance. No beggars will harass you. Humbling to see them so happy with so little.)

Photography – Before taking pictures of locals, know it is polite to ask.  Your AFS Private Facebook Group Page is a great way to share your best shots with each other. AFS loves photos with group participants (not typical churches, monuments, or any shot that looks like you pulled it off of the net, etc.) for our website. The best photos are ones that include a group member with a local, children, animals, or at iconic sites in the same frame!  

Retail Therapy – (XXXgoogle country shoppingXXX)

Websites of Interest:

(XX destination tourism and tourist boards)

(these * are optional tabs)

Chewing-  XXX

Accommodations –Accommodations – Our itinerary has links to each hotel.  Hotels can change, but it’s rare. 

Roommates –  Single supplements have significantly increased in price– if available at all.  Save money and buy yourself an awesome local gift. We all live alone, but save money when traveling by rooming together. Suzy spends a lot of time on roommate matching.  99% of our clients are wonderful and you’re only in your room to sleep at night.   The best option is to invite a friend.  Note, kindness begets kindness.  Many of our seasoned travelers bring headsets to drown out any excess noise.  We share rooms only to sleep at night.  (If AFS room list ends up with unbalanced gender, and forces a single room, we will offer it to all in group or share the added cost. If none want it, if you were the last to book we may have to remove you from the trip.)  

AFS Optionals: (When offered)

Leisure Time –  For your free time, it’s best to arrive and ask our local expert guides for suggestions.  We notice many newer clients pre-plan many activities on the AFS trip well before they arrive, often with disappointing results.  Our daily itineraries are pretty full, but there will be some free time. Expert travelers revel in the element of surprise in a new destination and allow the wind to blow them where it will. Use Google Maps on your phone to find everything nearby.  

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://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   Briefly, on land packages we’ll refund your deposit less 50% until 5 weeks prior trip’s final payment due date.   Any cancellation after this date will result in full forfeiture of your deposit. AFS reserves the right to resell or otherwise use the canceled space at our discretion.

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.   CFAR or cancel for any reason covers Covid but is expensive.  Note that no company covers for fear.  

Preexisting conditions – If you would like the security of travel insurance and have a pre-existing condition (elderly parent, medical, etc.), you must purchase insurance within 15 days from your initial trip deposit in order to assure full coverage.  The trip cost can be amended or adjusted as needed after your initial purchase (eg. like adding an air ticket cost later). You can buy travel insurance at any time, just know that there may be some possible limitations if purchased outside the 15 day period.  We like TravelSafe, Allianz or Seven Corners.  

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.

Please be advised that the operation of some tours may need to be rearranged or modified to suit local conditions, but all activities stated will be included.  We are here for you to address any questions about your trip. In time, we believe travel will begin to normalize with less rules and we appreciate your cooperation until then.  Now more than ever before, travelers value the privilege of travel to explore our world. You’ve been waiting so long, it’s time for recess!

Please be advised that the operation of some tours may need to be rearranged or modified to suit local conditions, but all activities stated will be included.  We are here for you to address any questions about your trip. In time, we believe travel will begin to normalize with less rules and we appreciate your cooperation until then.  Now more than ever before, travelers value the privilege of travel to explore our world. You’ve been waiting so long, it’s time for recess!

AFRICA TRIPS

Click –> Basic Africa Safari Tips

CRUISES

Click –> Port Secrets Cruise Tips