Arctic Wonderland of Greenland

“Arctic Explorer, Greenland with Denmark” New small group

August 3-12, 2024

Price listed below the daily itinerary

Come channel your Viking spirit in the land of star beauty. Dominated by the world’s second largest sea cap, remote Greenland lends an epic vacation experience. Imagine entering a world of eternal ice and monumental icebergs under the Midnight Sun. Like a celebrity, you’ll need your sunglasses even at night. Summer in this arctic tundra bursts with vibrant colors in all shades of green and where the Northern Lights can be seen year-round. Witness majestic calving glaciers and massive icebergs floating in the deepest blue sea. Add the coolest wildlife like puffins, seals, whales, the rare “unicorn” narwhal, and polar bears, you’ve found the perfect vacation experience! Greenland, covered and 81% ice, has just one short magical season -Summer offers nfathomable beauty.

Greenland is ruled by its weather. Yes, it’s expensive destinations to visit due to the very short Taurus season. We dug deep to curate the best itinerary for you to see the greatest scenic sites located in West Greenland. (We discovered most tours and cruises go East with just visits to settlements or no tours included in prices.) Our new 9-day AFS trip includes plenty of activities and cruises around Disko Bay in a shorter time and then adding Scandi-cool Denmark to save you money.

We begin in Wonderful Copenhagen with fun activities and tours including a day in Sweden! Then we fly Air Greenland direct to the best region of the country where cruises don’t go. Our base in West Greenland is Ilulissat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its scenic wonders. In dramatic Disko Bay with the extraordinary Eqi Glacier Fjord, witness massive icebergs breaking off into the sea. Listen and gaze. It’s a dazzling display where ice moves
faster than anywhere else on earth, up to 130 feet in 24 hours. Then meet the huskies as we visit the kennels to play with a friendly sled dogs. Immerse yourself in the traditions of the friendly Inuit people. Enjoy a whale watching cruise in search of beluga, fin, humpback and orca whales. You can even opt for the helicopter ride or sea kayaking amidst the stunning ice fjords.

Greenland is so enchanting, a land where whales dance in the fjords and reindeer roam freely. Many of you asked for it and it won’t come around again. This one is for a small group of 18 AFS explorers. Experience the Midnight Sun at latitude 80°. Don’t miss this unique getaway into a mesmerizing white wilderness with a taste of Denmark and Sweden. It’s truly an adventure of a lifetime that should be at the top of your bucket list!

Our Glorious AFS Itinerary

Click for a printable PDF Greenland itinerary

Aug 3 – Fly USA round trip to Copenhagen

Aug 4 – Welcome to Wonderful Copenhagen!

Transfer to our hotel city center. (One common group transfer according to most flight times.) Our hotel is ideally set along the blue waves of Copenhagen Canal near the city center’s must-see attractions.

Lonely Planet says…Copenhagen is a city that embodies Scandi cool. It effortlessly combines modernist design with the timeless charm of the Nordic region. As you stroll through the streets, you’ll be mesmerized by the soft glow of modernist lamps illuminating the bustling city. New Nordic tables, adorned with minimalist elegance, invite you to indulge in a
culinary journey like no other.

Overnight Copenhagen Strand Hotel

Aug 5- Danish Delights City Tour

After breakfast, we meet our guide for a tour of the main sights that give Copenhagen its old-world charm. You’ll pass by Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek, Tivoli Gardens, the world’s oldest Royal Stock Exchange, and Christiansborg Castle, which today houses the Danish Parliament and the Supreme Court.
Next, we’ll visit the charming harbor, Nyhavn, before reaching Amalienborg Castle, the prime residence of the Danish Royal family. We’ll also pass by Rosenborg Castle, where the Royal collections, including the Crown Jewels, are protected by the Royal Guard. And no tour of Copenhagen would be complete without visiting The Little Mermaid, inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s fairytale! (If time permits it’s only $12 for entrance into Rosenberg castle to see the jewels, takes about two hours and worth it). Continue to see Amalien Castle, residence of the Prime Minister and Royal Family. . Then visit the exquisite Danish Cathedral. Entrance included at Roskilde Cathedral. The crème de la crème of Danish cathedrals, this twin-spired giant was started by Bishop Absalon in 1170, but has been rebuilt and tweaked so many times that it’s now a superb showcase of 850 years’ worth of Danish architecture. As the royal mausoleum, it contains the crypts of 37 Danish kings and queens and is now a Unesco World Heritage Site.

Rickshaw ride – Time for a unique experience this afternoon as we embark on a one-hour pedaled Rickshaw Ride into the back alleys of the city center. We end with a “coffee and cake like a Dane” with the locals called Kobenhavner for Danish pastries. Tonight, we gather for a Welcome Dinner at local restaurant with Danish delights to get to know our new AFS Travelers lovers.

Overnight Copenhagen Strand Hotel B, D

The Copenhagen Strand is a 4-star hotel situated on the waterfront of Copenhagen Harbour, offering breathtaking views of the serene blue waves. Conveniently located near all the major attractions and must-sees in the city, but also provides a tranquil and peaceful atmosphere for our guests. That’s why we consider Copenhagen Strand to be the perfect seaside hotel in the heart of the city. We can’t wait to give you a warm welcome and make your group tour travel experience truly unforgettable!

Aug 6 – Fly to Greenland

This morning transfer to airport for our flight on Air Greenland. (Flights are not in the system yet, times and cost TBA). It’s around a 5-hour flight from Copenhagen to Kangerlussuaq, Greenland’s main gateway. Then we transfer to 1-hour domestic flight to Ilulissat, the iceberg capital and coolest part of the country! (Some connections on Air Greenland will be on helicopters of 9 to 20 passengers. There are no roads connecting town.)

Check into our base – Ilulissat Best Western in the heart of town. This new hotel has the friendliest staff to assist you, free Wi-Fi and full hot breakfast. Enjoy the rooftop café with stunning views of the ice fjords here. It’s the perfect location to walk to nearby shops, museums, churches, cafés, etc. At night, always look to the sky for the possibility of seeing the summer northern lights.

Ilulissat is the third-largest city in Greenland and attracts many as it is home to the famous Ilulissat Icefjord. With a population of 4,905, it offers opportunities to experience stunning icebergs and is situated on the shores of Disko Bay, making it the largest town in the area. The name “Ilulissat” aptly translates to “Icebergs” in the Greenlandic language, which is fitting considering the towering icebergs that surround the town. Located on the west coast of Greenland, approximately 350km north of the Arctic Circle, Ilulissat enjoys continuous daylight during the summer months and perpetual darkness in winter. These extreme conditions make it a unique destination. The nutrient-rich waters of Disko Bay attract a diverse range of seals and whales, making it the prime location for whale watching in Greenland. – Lonely Planet

Overnight Best Western Hotel Ilulissat B

Aug 7 – Epic Eqi Glacier, Disko Bay

We head on the Disko Line ferry to Qeqertarsuaq, the only city on Disko Island known as the most beautiful place in Greenland. Basalt columns and hot springs are evidence of the volcanic history here. We board our boats 80 km north to what Greenlanders call “the naval of the world”, to witness the calving of glaciers. Few places on earth are as beautiful and active as Eqi. Our boat will get you up close to the glacier as possible. When it is calving, the sounds are deafening as icebergs of incredible colors and shapes break into the waters. See the enormous ice wall for breathtaking photos. Along the way of our cruise, look out for the legendary whales, seals and a multitude of marine life. Here we stop to enjoy a buffet lunch of local fish in front of the glacier. Special permits are given for those who may choose an optional helicopter flight and some incredible sea kayaking experiences among the ‘bergs. You’ll be shouting “torrak!”, Greeenlanders slang for “that’s awesome” by days enf.

(Shared tour – this means it’s not a private AFS tour. Others may join us.)

Best Western Hotel Ilulissat B,L

Aug 8 – Icefjords of West Greenland

This morning we embark on a walking tour along a raised wooden walkway to the settlement of Sermermiut set along a beautiful world of ice. For 4000 years, different Inuit communities have lived here. Our guide will share stories about Inuit life and traditions before Europeans came to Greenland. Touch the permafrost ground to understand the challenging life they have here. See the historic turf houses from ancient times. The town receives 30,000 visitors each year and is now a UNESCO site.

Our afternoon adventure takes us on another boat cruise by icebergs into the famous Ilulissat Icefiord which is also a World Heritage Site. It is astonishing to look up at at ice sheets 100m in height around you as we sail towards the end of the fjord. In summer, they glitter in shiny white and a dozen shades of blue under the unique warm glow of the midnight sun. It’s a nature experience you’ll never forget. (Shared tour).

Best Western Hotel Ilulissat B

Aug 9 – Whale Safari & Huskies

This morning we head out again in boats in search of the humpback, blue, minke, and fin whales splashing in the waters of Disko Bay. The humpback, as big as 30 tons and 60 feet long, is the acrobat among them all. They are most active swimming in summer. See them hunt for fish, squid and krill. Also look for walruses, bearded seals, adorable white Beluga and the rare Narwhal or “unicorn” whales! It’s possible to spot polar bears. They are one of Greenland’s most iconic animals and the world’s largest land predator. 2200 polar bears live around the coast of West Greenland. (Now is the time to visit. Scientific studies reveal the ice sheets are melting faster now than ever in history. But they also discover a re-emerging population of polar bears despite rapid climate change.) Our captain is in radio contact with the local fishermen and other boat operators to alert us of sightings near for our best WOW moments. (Shared tour)

Afternoon tour to meet the Huskies! For six months a year here, it’s sled time for 1800 dogs that reside here. Not just for recreation and tourism, but these sled dogs are used to work. They are mainly used for transportation and hauling halibut from the ice fiords to Ilulissat. In summer, it’s delightful to visit the sociable dogs at their kennel homes. You’ll hear their yapping as we approach. Look into their blue eyes under the midnight sunshine, pet their soft fur and get your best “selfie” with them. The playful interactions and joy of these unique huskies lend a heartfelt experience. Tonight, a Farewell Dinner is included at our hotel to cheer a fabulous adventure in Greenland! Best Western Hotel Ilulissat link B, D

Aug 10 – WEST GREENLAND – COPENHAGEN

We check out and transfer to airport for our return flight to Copenhagen. (Time around 7 hours.). On arrival transfer to hotel. Depending on flight times, you may have time to explore more of this royal city. In the evening, consider a canal dinner cruise or fabulous Tivoli Gardens. This famous old-world amusement park, set in stunning gardens, is loved by adults and children alike with dozens of fun lively outdoor cafés and restaurants to choose.

Overnight Copenhagen Strand Hotel B

Aug 11: Visit Sweden

We added a full day tour for you to add another stamp your passport. By private coach, we drive over the beautiful Oresund Bridge, the longest in Europe, over to Sweden. Our guide leads us on a walking tour of historic Lund, a city dating back to the Viking age. Walk its cobbled streets and visit the 12th-century Lund Cathedral. Then we travel to Sweden’s third largest city, the cultural capital and university city of Malmo. From the large square of Stortorget, see Malmo’s Castle, Scandinavia’s oldest pharmacy, the old graveyard and St Peiti Church, and other hidden local spots located in Gamla Stan. There are many enticements. It has a Parisian feel with pedestrian-only streets lined with great Swedish cafés. Free time to visit the museums and many specialty shops with great prices. Later we meet our guide at the Torso, Scandinavia’s tallest building and return to Copenhagen.

Overnight Copenhagen Strand Hotel B

Aug 12: Departure – After breakfast, transfer to airport for a flights home.

Land Price: $4995 per person twin occupancy, based on 20 participants

Includes – 4 nights first class hotel Copenhagen, 4 nights hotel Ilulissat, breakfast daily, 2 lunches, welcome and farewell dinners, private coach transfers with tour guide, daily tours with entrance fees as stated, rickshaw tour, Eqi glacier, whale safari, Sermermuit, huskies, iceberg cruise, day visit Sweden.

Not included: Gratuities, round-trip air USA to Copenhagen, internal air round-trip Denmark to Greenland.

Air Greenland is the only airline into Greenland. There are no ferrys or transport from other countries. Seats are limited with only 10 flights a week in summer to Ilulissat on small aircraft. Because seats are extremely limited on small aircraft, the internal flights are part of the group package. We must all be on the same charter flight. We hold 24 seats for AFS. Total price with taxes is $1560. Full payment is due January 10 for airline ticket with strict restrictions as nonrefundable. (AFS will be billing you Jan 5.). 20kg or 40lbs limit for checked bags. Understand that Greenland welcomes over 100,000 international tourists annually. It’s all worth it if this once in a lifetime destination is on your bucket list!

Air Greenland

Aug 6. #781, CPH-SFJ 10-10:40AM (5 hour flight less 4 hour time change)
Connect to #534 SFJ – JAV 12:25-2PM
Aug 10 #533 JAV-SFJ 9:45 -11:20AM
Connect to #780 SFJ-CPH 11:55AM-8:15PM

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? Then Click Here

Greenland Travel Trip Tips 2024

Prepare to be thrilled on our new dual-destination vacation to Denmark with the highlight of Greenland! Dominated by the world’s second-largest ice cap, Greenland delights visitors with stunning glaciers, huge ice fjords, and UNESCO sites all under the midnight sun. The west is the best with Disko Bay. Our base for excursions is Ilulissat, Greenland’s third largest city called “iceberg capital of the world”. And don’t overlook all the delights to be found in wonderful Copenhagen. August is the best time to go, and I hope it’s your best trip ever!

At present, we have an awesome group of 22 travel lovers, with space for one more. Connect with each other now on your private group Facebook page. You can find the Facebook link in your welcome email that came after you deposited on the trip.

Greenland is a country ruled by weather. Travel delays are not usually serious, but can happen. If so, our local team will do all possible to assist in adjusting our itinerary if necessary. Now is the time to go! Greenland is seeing the hottest temps in 100 years with a melting ice sheet and major impact on sea travel. Recently, scientists find a new population of polar bears hunting on both sea ice and freshwater ice. I hope you see them as well as massive deafening, calving events !

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 MARCH 20 – 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. If you prefer to use the mail, make your payment to AFS or Adventures For Solo Travelers, 1907 Daniel Green Ct., Smyrna GA 30080

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

GTL Salanda Salanda has decades of experience in the travel industry and has worked over 12 years as a travel consultant for one of the world’s largest management companies. She has been traveling with AFS tours since the year 2000 and leading many of our groups. With over 40 trips under her belt, she always adds value to the client experience introducing them to new things during the tours. With a passion for exotic places and unique culture, she loves to lead some of our most exciting adventures – (Kilimanjaro, Mt Everest base camp and Galapagos to name a few.)

Trip Prep:
• Read 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.

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Fitness level – Moderate walks and activity daily. (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!)

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.

What to fly 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: Aug 3-12 round trip to CPH. Depart USA Aug 3 USA to Copenhagen, arriving on Aug 4. Tour ends Aug 12 in Copenhagen.

Doing Own Air– Many airlines fly to CPH – www.flysas.com now with direct flights from Atlanta. Check out Iceland Air, Finnair, Virgin, Air France, KLM, Air France, Delta, United, American, British Airways and more. United flies non stop from 9 major gateways.

Time permitting, I always add a stop over city pre-or post trip to break up the long journey and augment my vacation. Most AFSers go in a day early to rest and explore. Best buy your air sooner than later. Google Flights let you set up a “fare alerts” when prices drop. Many AFSers are very air-savvy. Let us know if you find a great schedule and price, please.

We like Google Flights because your find the rate and flight and are sent to the airline to book. 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.

Partial Group Air: – Our roundtrip is from Copenhagen to Greenland. Everyone must be on the same flight, so it has been added to the group package and this cannot be deviated. Since this is a small group, we will not be offering USA to Europe. We fly Dash8 small 29 seat plane from Copenhagen to Kanger SFJ, then a short flight to an Illulissat JAV. Strict bag limit, 20 KG not to exceed 44 pounds for your checked bag. You can leave excess items behind at the Strand Hotel if necessary. Carry-on limit is 8 KG.

Air Greenland

Aug 6. #781 CPH-SFJ 10-10:40AM (5 hour flight less 4 hour time change)
Connect to #534 SFJ – JAV 12:25-2PM
Aug 10 #533 JAV-SFJ 9:45 -11:20AM
Connect to #780 SFJ-CPH 11:55AM-8:15PM

Itineraries are prepared up to a year ahead and things can change. Modifications may be made.

Airport Transfers- We will have one group airport pick up to accommodate as many people as possible. If your times fall outside the group, simply take a taxi to the hotel. The Stand Hotel address is Havnegrade 37, 1058 Copenhagen.

Airport train is 50 minutes to city Center. Taxis to and from the airport are approximately DKK 325 – $30. All taxis run on a meter and you can pay by most major credit cards.

(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 Aug 4 a time will be set to meet the group at the hotel for a briefing. More on this later after we collect everyone’s air times.

Baggage– Think light to ease your burden. You change hotel properties 3 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 on Air Greenland. 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 Greenland a week prior departure – should be in the mid-50s and mid-60’s in Copenhagen. This is the best month and you’ll be under the midnight sun.

The air is dry and sun is bright. Pack casual clothes and dress by layering. Several pants, long and short sleeve tops, sweaters, fleece, waterproof boots or shoes, sneakers.

Days – sunscreen, sunglasses, lip balm, cap, day pack Woolley’s – wind and water proof down jacket, thermals, hat, scarf, gloves.

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.) The US dollar is stronger than ever before now in Sri Lanka for your exchange to the Sri Lankan rupees!

Currency Exchange Rate 1 Danish Krone = 0.1464 US Dollar
Follow the link below to create a conversion cheat sheet
https://www.oanda.com/currency/travel-exchange-rates

Gratuities – It’s protocol to tip our local guides, assistants, porters, wait staff, drivers and ground staff. Guidelines have increased globally. A $130 total will be added to your invoice 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! Most restaurants include the service charge, look at your bill.

Websites of Interest: go to websites visitdenmark.com and visit copenhagen.com for fabulous tips and things to explore. Visit Greenland (https://visitgreenland.com/): This official tourism website provides comprehensive information about Greenland’s attractions, activities, accommodations, and travel tips. It also offers insights into the culture, history, and wildlife of Greenland.

Chewing- Greenland’s cuisine is a fusion of traditional Inuit food, Danish influence, and international flavors. Typical dishes found on Greenlandic menus include seal, whale, fish (such as Arctic char, halibut, and shrimp), reindeer, muskox, lamb, and a variety of wild berries. Seal and whale meat are prepared in different ways, while fish is often grilled, baked, or fried. Reindeer, muskox, and lamb are commonly served as steaks or in stews. Greenland’s abundance of wild berries, including crowberries, blueberries, and cloudberries, are used in desserts, jams, and sauces.

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. Please understand if the AFS room list ends up with unbalanced gender, and forces a single room, we will offer it to all in group. If all decline, we split the added forced cost single room. If you were the last to book we may have to remove you from the trip unless you share in the supplement cost

AFS Optionals: August 7 – optional helicopter flight or sea kayaking. More details later by email.

Leisure Time – 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!