“Ancient Jordan & Futuristic Qatar, a Journey Through Time”
Sept 7-16, 2024 Small Group 10 people max
Seeking a unique experience of 2 diverse destinations in one vacay? This has it all for you, from the ancient kingdom of Jordan to the uber-modern emirate of Qatar. Our new AFS 9-day memory maker is for a small group of privileged travel lovers who want a high-end tour, yet still affordable and September is the best time to go. There’s nothing like Arabian hospitality. “Alhalan wa Sahlan” or ‘ you are most welcome ‘ is a phrase you’ll hear everywhere you go.
We begin in the capital of Amman or “Philadelphia“ in Roman times to explore the Citadel and historic city of Jerash. Continue to visit the biblical wonders of Mt Nebo and Madaba. On to the World Heritage Site of Petra. Towering monuments, tombs and temples here always fill travelers with awe. Our Petra by Night tour will leave you spellbound.
We head south into lunar- like ‘scapes of Wadi Rum with dramatic sandstone mountains that make a perfect backdrop for major blockbuster movies. This UNESCO site is trending at the top of thrill seekers must-see places. The Rum ‘now claims to be the “glamping capital of the world. “ You’ll LOVE our luxury camp set in surreal moonlike surroundings. Camp like a Bedouin in our glamour domes that we booked a year in advance for you to get incredible Instagram photos! Sunrise to sunset, you can experience a camel trek, jeep safari and even hot air ballooning. Each night, camp lights dim for our celestial star gazing.
We then descend into Jordan’s Rift Valley to the lowest place on earth for pampered relaxation. Immerse yourself in the therapeutic benefits of the Dead Sea at our five-star resort.
Next, fly to sparkling Qatar, the more sophisticated sister of Dubai. The vibrant capital of Doha is a jewel of modern architecture with breathtaking skyscrapers against the backdrop of ancient dhows. Our tours delve into Qatari history of thrilling camel racing and the coolest new sites. Visit the extraordinary “ Pearl”, man-made island wonder filled with enticements. Bargain for spices at bazaars in the Old Port. Words can’t convey our elegant home here for refined travelers. The new lux Fairmont hotel, dramatically shaped like two swords, is a gleaming landmark overlooking the Arabian Sea. The lobby, laced with 18k gold, holds the world’s largest chandelier. Lavish yourselves in the pools and spa. Service is beyond impeccable. The concierge will remember your name.
Start dreaming and prepare to be smitten by both Jordan and Qatar. We know these lands well with many past groups. AFSers want a story to tell. Our experiences here lend cherished memories for years to come. Your camel awaits!
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Our Glorious AFS Itinerary
For itinerary, copy and paste to Word doc
Sep 7 – Depart USA and fly to Amman (Air details coming and trip tips)
Sep 8 – Welcome to the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan
The capital of Amman is a fascinating city of contrasts from old to new, set high in hills facing the Jordan Valley. It’s the largest city of 4 million residents but has an inviting atmosphere perfect for a warm welcome and easy to explore. (We get one airport transfer. Details to come and trip tips.)
Check into Movenpick for a rest or walk in its lovely shaded neighborhood. Our guide will greet us for a briefing, followed by a Welcome Dinner to get to know your fellow AFS Travelers.
Overnight: Movenpick Amman Jordan D
Mövenpick Hotel Amman offers an airport shuttle (available 24 hours) for JOD 46 per vehicle one-way. Great location, free Wi-Fi, several restaurants, spa with hot stone massage and body scrubs. This luxurious hotel also features a poolside bar, a health club, and a fitness center.
Sep 9 – Exploring Jordan: From Amman to Petra
After breakfast, we begin with a city tour. The Citadel and Roman Theatre in Amman, a must-visit. Immerse yourself in the rich history of Jordan as you explore these ancient landmarks. The Citadel stands tall atop Jebel al-Qala’a, offering panoramic city views. Discover the ruins of the Roman Theatre, a marvel of ancient engineering and reflect how the gladiators once performed here.
Then we travel to the well-preserved ancient Roman city of Jerash, once biblical Gerasa to admire its ruins, including the Oval Plaza, streets, baths, and temples. Jerash is steeped in ancient history. This captivating site offers a glimpse into the grandeur and opulence of the Roman Empire. As you wander through the well-preserved ruins, you’ll be transported back in time, marveling at the impressive architecture and intricate details that have stood the test of time.
Later, we transfer 3.5 hours to the lovely town of Wadi Musa, gateway to Petra, which is one of the 7 world wonders and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Step back in time and explore the mesmerizing Red Rose city of Petra, home of the Edomites, Nabateans and Romans. This ancient site leaves tourists spellbound as they wander through its captivating ruins and marvel at its architectural beauty.
Check-in to our hotel, a favorite of all tour groups. AFSers love meeting up in the Cave Bar for happy hour and the Terrace for sweeping views of Petra. The small boutique property is just steps away from the entrance of Petra. This evening we had out on our special “Petra by Night” tour. There is no better way to experience the Treasury than seeing it lit up by hundreds of candles and music. It will truly be a magical experience, with the rose-colored rock sparkling with hundreds of tiny dancing flames lighting our way throughout. (Must be able to walk 1 mile at dusk on uneven pavement.)
Overnight: The Petra Guest House Hotel B
The Petra Guest House Hotel Website
Sep 10 – Enchanting Land of Petra: A Journey Through Ancient History B
After breakfast, our guide will lead us into Petra. We’ll start on a journey into the heart of a once-thriving ancient civilization that held sway over Arabian trade routes for centuries. The mesmerizing world of the Nabateans awaits.
We begin at the Visitor’s Centre. Our walking journey starts with the narrow Siq, a gorge that offers the first glimpse of the vibrant sandstone, leading you to the breathtaking Treasury at the end. We’ll continue on the Street of Facades to discover the Royal Tombs, the Theatre, Qasr Al Bint and more. After commentary on the major sites, free time is given for you to go deeper and higher into the more hidden areas. It’s an awesome fall day tour!
Accommodation: Petra Guest House Hotel
Sep 11- Journey Through the Red Region of Wadi Rum B,D
After breakfast, we drive to Wadi Rum, which takes about 2 .5 hours. Wadi is “Valley of the Moon”, featured in films from Indiana Jones, Dune, Transformers and more. For centuries it’s been home to nomadic Bedouins and now a World Heritage Site and the best place on the planet to unplug off the grid in this peaceful place.
Check in at the beautiful Aicha Camp for a memorable night. The name Aicha means “to live” in Arabic. The staff will brief you on all the fabulous amenities and activities at this luxury camp. Options include a jeep safari, hiking or hot air ballooning with Bedouin guides. There’s a huge tented restaurant, outdoor barbecue, and terrace bar with Shisha pipes. Later we embark on a sunset camel ride. The breathtaking landscapes, towering sandstone cliffs, and peacefulness of the desert make it special.
After dinner, enjoy guided Stargazing to witness thousands of stars due to the low light pollution in this rare location. Our camp even switches off all lights at 10:00 pm, ensuring an optimal stargazing experience.
Accommodation: Memories Aicha Camp B,D Memories Camp Website
We’ve seen a fair share of the luxury campsites but Memories of Aicha is something truly unique. Tucked into the red valley whole site resembles more Mars colony than a camping site. Domes are very spacious and comfortable, with AC (important!), bathrooms and running water. Thanks to the transparent roof you can watch thousands of stars at night right from your bed.
Or admire the Martian views during the day from your private deck – only oriental furniture will remind you that you are still on Earth.
Sep 12 – Exploring the Views of Mount Nebo and the Dead Sea
(Optional hot air balloon in experience over stunning lunar landscape may be considered. $265.) After breakfast, we coach to Mount Nebo. This is the believed burial place of Moses (Deuteronomy 
34:1) with breathtaking views 
of the Jordan Valley and the Dead Sea. Jerusalem and Jericho can often be seen on the other side of the border. We continue to Madaba to appreciate the Byzantine and Umayyad mosaics, particularly the mosaic map of the Holy Land from the Byzantine era. Then we visit the magnificent St. George Church, home to the Mosaic Map of Jerusalem painted on the floor.
Next, we’ll drive to the Dead Sea for free time at the lowest point on earth. Check into our 5-star resort, a lush oasis in the desert for relaxation and pampering. Group dinner tonight is buffet style with Jordan’s best dishes.
Accommodation: Movenpick Dead Sea B,D https://movenpick.accor.com/en/middle-east/jordan/dead-sea/resort-dead-sea.html
Free Wi-Fi, 5 restaurants, 4 swimming pools. Luxuriously decorated rooms have a view over the Sea, pool or beautiful gardens.
Sep 13 – Day Free to Enjoy The Dead Sea
The Dead Sea is a natural wonder 427m below sea level and perfect place for wellness travelers. The warm sea water rich in minerals keeps you so buoyant, it’s impossible to sink. In ancient times, King Herod and even Cleopatra came here for treatments. Get yourself a salt scrub and mud soak.
Accommodation: Movenpick Dead Sea B, D
The luxury Mövenpick Resort & Spa Dead Sea is designed like a traditional village setting nestled amongst lush gardens. With your well-being and balance in mind, this 5-star resort is an oasis of tranquillity. It offers five swimming pools, a huge spa, several cafés, restaurants and bars. Explore a delectable variety of cuisines catering to all tastes from laid-back al fresco dining to our traditional Italian restaurant.
Sep 14 – Depart for Amman airport for our flight to Doha
Note – Flight QR #403 at 2:55 PM on Qatar from Amman to Doha is additional cost. All must be on same flight. When booking your international air round-trip from USA on Qatar, you can include this leg for essentially free and they have great rates to this area! For those using other airlines, you can book this as a separate ticket, around $550. We will present Group Air later in trip tips when flights open for reservations on this leg. Please be patient and wait.
After breakfast short drive to Amman to Queen Alia Airport for flight to Doha. Welcome to Qatar! Doha, capital of the peninsular Persian Gulf country Qatar, is a modern city on Doha Bay. Lining its downtown waterfront are numerous parks and the Corniche Promenade. Our Guide greets us on airport arrival and transfers us to the 5-star Fairmont Hotel & Spa on the Persian Gulf! Upon arrival check in hotel.
Accommodation: Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl – Doha B
Located in the heart of the hypermodern New City, history is being made in this sumptuously appointed hotel. Enjoy the six restaurants, spa, pools and award winning concierges here who can arrange anything for guests. With world-class service and dedication to curating unrivaled experiences personalized to each guest, your stay here will be truly unforgettable. Supremely luxurious guest rooms for everything a connoisseur of travel desires, every contemporary amenity, the latest in room tech and spectacular views of the Arabian Gulf.
Sep 15 – Discover Doha Day
This morning head out of town to witness how Qataris loved their camels. Welcome to the thrilling world of camel racing at the famous Al Shahaniya Camel Racetrack. It’s a virtual camel city here with countless camels for some incredible selfies! Even on non-race days, guests are encouraged to witness the camels’ training sessions by stopping each morning.
We then head to Doha for a city tour. Our first stop is the Corniche, a traditional dhow harbor to see the traditional dhows and enjoy the view of Doha’s skyline. Next is the Katara Cultural Village is a new complex and largest multi-dimensional cultural project in the country. Get a glimpse of the cultures of the world as we wander through this extraordinary venue of exhibitions, galleries, concert halls, films, even water sports.
Next, visit Box Park, a vibrant and Instagram-worthy location that opened at the Old Doha Port. Built using recycled shipping containers, the Box Park is home to food trucks and offers a stunning view of Stadium 974, also constructed from shipping containers. The colorful Mina District is our perfect lunch stop with a variety of cafes and restaurants such as Ergon, Exit 55, Santa Nata, and even visit the seafood market for the freshest catch of the day.
Continue to the incredible Pearl Qatar, an extraordinary man-made island shaped like an oyster. The Pearl has set the standard for luxury offering an unparalleled experience of opulence, home to millionaires with high-end stores and great outdoor cafés.
Finally, we visit the ancient Souq Waqif, a traditional bazaar where you can admire the authentic architecture and browse through stalls selling gold jewelry, spices, textiles, perfumes, and traditional handicrafts. Visit the Falcons Souk, dedicated to the birds of prey so revered by Qataris. Falconry is a sport throughout Qatar history. See the handlers sell them and get a photo with the falcon perched on your arm.
Back to hotel. Doha comes alive at night with a pulsing nightlife that rivals Dubai.
Accommodation: Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl – Doha. B
Sep 16 – Depart for Doha airport for flight home
After breakfast, we depart for the airport for our flight home.
Land price $3395 pp twin share
Final payment due upon booking as we will secure air ticket and room for each.
Included- 8 nights deluxe accommodation, 8 buffet breakfast and 4 dinners, 1 bottled water per person per day in coaches, guided tours in Amman, Jerash, Madaba, Mount Nebo, Petra and Petra by Night, camel ride and stargazing in Wadi rum, guided city tour in Doha with camel race track, Tour Director throughout, AFS GTL, entrance fees to all monuments per program, all taxes and service charges.
Not Included – Air from USA, travel insurance, internal flight from Amman to Doha $589. Since this is a very small group we are not collecting prepaid gratuities. The cost is $95 for guides, drivers and local staff Hand to trip leader upon arrival.
Itineraries are prepared up to a year ahead and things can change. Modifications may be made. All rooms are run of house.
Have you read the Trip Tips yet? Scroll to the top of the page and click the next tab over
Jordan & Qatar Travel Trip Tips
Prepare to be thrilled on our new dual destination adventure, which just may be your favorite vacation ever! Ancient Jordan is my favorite country and sparkling Qatar never disappoints because it is always evolving. Both places are filled with historic wonders and we toss in a ton of fun along the way for unforgettable memories.
At present, we have a cozy group of 8 travel lovers. Our goal is at least 12 so please share the trip link with your friends and social media. Comes summer, we may get many more. (again, all tour operators must base prices on group size. Your trip cost is $3395 plus mid-trip flight, which is still a great deal compared to many others over 4k for half of what we offer. As stated in my email, if we near 16 total, we can refund you $200.) Both Jordan and Qatar tourism is full on with countless groups and vacationers. Connect with each other now on your group Facebook page. Will be sending more details by email as departure nears. Anticipation is half the fun!
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.
- FINAL PAYMENT DUE at the time of booking. Wetravel is our data management company; it allows you to pay by check electronically without a fee. Simply follow the instructions. Credit cards will be assessed a processing fee at time of purchase. As a small business, this helps mitigate costs and allows us to give you the very best price. You can also pay by check without mailing it by making it out to AFS, taking a photo of it and texting it to 770-432-8225 and we will enter the information for you at no extra credit card fee.
Your fearless GTL (Gracious Trip Leader, not a guide but a liaison between our guides and group to ensure things run smoothly.)
Deanna is based in Atlanta, making her way around the globe with over 60 countries visited…mostly solo until finding out about AFS in 2017. With degrees in Photography and Graphic Design from SCAD, she enjoys helping others capture and create interesting posts for Social Media that your friends are sure to envy. Also, with a background in IT/Communications, she is able to help solve any tech issues you may have with your devices or apps. She enjoys a healthy active lifestyle of working out, skiing, snorkeling and hiking. Always researching and learning…she has been studying and speaking French for the past 8+ years and will be sure to have at least 2-3 new Travel Hacks and tips for you each trip!
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.
VISA – Jordan none. Qatar requires a tourism visa that you get upon arrival at the airport around $27 (cost can change) by Visa and Mastercard. US citizens are required to have a Valid Passport good until at least six months from the date of entry or April 8, 2025. Your return ticket and a passport photo you can get at Walgreens photo counter. (Passport Photo, while not always necessary, is recommended to carry just in case). Hotel address of the place you will be staying … Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl – Doha Costa Malaz Bay, Marina Drive، Doha
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Fitness level – Moderate walks and activities daily. (Know your limits! AFS trips are generally soft adventures 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. 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! If you think it activities difficult for you please stay back with the coach.)
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. Considering business class? Many 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.
Important Air Dates: September 7 into Amman to September 16 out of Doha. Land tour starts in Amman September 8. Use our daily itinerary, official day one and last day of the trip, to help your air schedule.
Group Air: None, as we will not meet the minimum required to make a group booking since this is a small group.
Doing Own Air– many airlines fly USA into Amman and out of Doha. Best choices are Qatar or Turkish. Also consider Emirates, Royal Jordanian, Austrian Airlines, British Airways, Air France, and Egypt Air.
I like to add a stop over city to break up the journey and augment my vacation with another place. Get your tickets now, not later. Google flights let you put in “fare alerts”. Some of you are air savvy. Let us know if you already booked your air or find a good schedule and price. 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.
Airport Transfers- We will have one common group airport transfer September 8 pick up based on majority of arrival flight times. Others can take a taxi to the Movenpik hotel city center.Simply take a taxi to the hotel.
(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.)
Mid-trip flight Jordan to Qatar – Note – Flight QR #403 at 2:55 PM on Qatar from Amman to Doha $589 at this time will be added to the invoice (we are buying these tickets individual so the price can be higher or lower). Once ticketed, these are non-refundable.
Meet Up With Group- On Sep 8 at 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 5 times. 1 carry-on bag & 1 medium suitcase not to exceed 45lb checked bag – weigh on a bathroom scale. 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.
Packing- Google weather in Jordan and Qatar a week prior departure – Jordan should be in the 67 low and 86 high and around 10 degrees higher in Qatar
This trip is so easy. Simply pack summer clothing with a light jacket. Totally casual trip. Dress more modest here. Shorts are OK outside city centers. Bring headscarf or desert sand and visiting religious sites. Pack a day pack, comfy walking shoes, sandals, sneakers, water bottle, wide brim hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, small flashlight, swimsuit for dead sea and the resort. Hotels have hairdryers.
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– 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. 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.)
- Currency Exchange Rate $1 = $.70 Jordan Dinar, and $1 = 3.70 Qatari Rai Qatar
- Follow the link below to create a conversion cheat sheet
- https://www.oanda.com/currency/travel-exchange-rates
Gratuities – It is protocol to tip our local guides, assistants, porters, wait staff, drivers, and ground staff. For ease of distribution, $90 will be added to your invoice for your GTL to distribute each day throughout.
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!
Websites of Interest: www.visitjordan.com and www.visitqatar.com www.discoverqatar.com please take time to visit these excellent sites for fascinating details of each place your visit.
Chewing- Jordanian cuisine is a rich blend of Middle Eastern flavors and influences. One of the most popular dishes is Mansaf, a traditional Bedouin dish made with lamb, yogurt, and rice. Another famous dish is Falafel, which is made from ground chickpeas and spices, deep-fried to perfection. Jordan is also known for its delicious street food, such as Shawarma, a wrap filled with grilled meat, vegetables, and tahini sauce. Mezze is a popular appetizer in Jordan, featuring a variety of small dishes like hummus, baba ganoush, and tabbouleh. Finally, Jordanian desserts like Kunafa, a sweet pastry filled with cheese and soaked in sugar syrup, are a must-try for those with a sweet tooth.
Qatari cuisine is a delightful fusion of Arabian, Persian, Indian, and Mediterranean influences. One of the most popular dishes is Machbous, a fragrant rice dish with tender meat (usually chicken or lamb) and a blend of spices. Another traditional dish is Harees, made by slow-cooking cracked wheat and meat until it reaches a creamy consistency. Qatar is also known for its delicious seafood, with dishes like grilled fish and shrimp being a common choice among locals and visitors alike.
Accommodations –Accommodations – Our itinerary has links to each hotel. Hotels can change, but it’s rare.
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.
- 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.
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!
