|
Do
I have to travel with a group? |
| A: |
No!
In fact, this is one of the things about Across the Pond Tours
that makes us unique. Most people don’t wish to travel
with a group of others whom they don’t know and have often
commented to us that they feel as though they’re being
‘herded’ about. Your vacation is unique to you and
we understand that. We want to make it the best, most memorable
vacation you’ll ever experience.
|
| Q: |
What
if I want to travel with a group? |
| A: |
If you are a
member of an organization or group that wants to travel together,
Across the Pond Tours will happily make the appropriate arrangements.
Just give us a call and we’ll make sure it all comes together
for your special trip.
|
| Q: |
Will
a tour guide be accompanying us wherever we go? |
| A: |
No – unless
specifically requested. We understand that travelers enjoy the
freedom to do what they want, when they want, and how they want.
We shape your tour to fit your needs and desires. If you
do choose to be accompanied by an escort or guide, one may be
hired and we will happily arrange it, however, additional fees
will apply. But keep in mind that most attractions (e.g., Tower
of London, Edinburgh Vaults, etc.) have guides or guided tours.
|
| Q: |
When
is the best time of year to visit the UK? |
| A: |
Our reply is,
“When isn’t it a good time to visit the UK?”
and the answer is, “Never.” Whether you choose warmer
temperatures in the summer, or fancy seeing a bit of snowfall,
the U.K. is always beautiful. We do, however, recommend the late
spring, summer and early autumn months for most of our tours.
Many facilities are closed during winter months (and the surrounding
weeks). But don’t fret, we do have an Autumn Tour, a Halloween
Tour, and a Christmas Tour which we will cater to meet your desires.
|
| Q: |
What’s
different about Across the Pond Tours and why should I book with
you? |
| A: |
It’s true
– there are a lot of tour companies out there. But none
of them offer what we do, which is independent, private,
luxury theme and custom-designed tours. All of
our tours (with the exception of Walking/Hiking and Cycling Tours,
which are more “outdoorsy”) focus on luxury. We realize
that you work hard all year long at everything you do. We work
hard all year long to make sure that when your vacation comes
around, it is spent doing exactly what you want to do, how you
want to do it, and when. We cater to you with impeccable service
and standards.
|
| Q: |
I
like one of the theme tours, but wish to make a few changes.
How can I do that? |
| A: |
It is this idea
upon which we have based our business philosophy - to give our
clients exactly what they want. We understand how important
it is to tailor your vacation precisely to your specifications
and that is what we aim to do. Therefore, if you like a certain
tour but wish to change part(s) of it, no problem! (Additional
fees may apply.)
|
| Q: |
Are
these tours appropriate for children? |
| A: |
Most of Across
the Pond Tours’ itineraries are not only appropriate for
children, but educational, as well. However, some theme tours
are not (such as Haunted Britain and A Long Drive and
a Wee Dram). Some venues in the U.K. have an age restriction.
Therefore, if you plan to travel with children (i.e., anyone
under the age of 18), please notify the Across the Pond Tour
Manager so that he or she can research potential age restrictions.
|
| Q: |
Can
I travel alone? |
| A: |
Absolutely! We
recognize that one of the most self-enriching things a person
can do is to travel on his or her own. However, please keep in
mind that the prices quoted in printed materials or online are
per person, and are based on double occupancy. If you choose
to travel alone, supplemental charges will apply.
|
| Q: |
Are
meals included? |
| A: |
Breakfasts are
almost always included. Other meals can be included upon request.
When you call us, ask your Tour Manager for more information
about inclusive meals. Something can always be arranged to suit
your travel needs.
|
| Q: |
Do
you book the flight to Britain? |
| A: |
Although Across the Pond
Tours does not book flights directly, we work with a partner
travel agency that will secure the best flight for you to the
U.K. on the airline of your choice. Alternately, you may wish
to book your flight directly online yourself, since internet
fares seem to be the way to get the best rate these days.
|
| Q: |
Can
I earn “points” with the hotels booked on my stay? |
| A: |
We will be happy
to further discuss this option upon booking.
|
| Q: |
Can
I add an Across the Pond Tours theme tour to an existing trip
I’ve already planned? |
| A: |
Absolutely! In
fact, we think it’s a great idea! Some of the tours we
offer may not be long enough for you to enjoy all that Britain
has to offer. Or, you may wish to see another European country
on your trip. Just let us know upon booking so that we can make
the appropriate transportation arrangements for you.
|
| Q: |
What
forms of payment do you accept? |
| A: |
Across the Pond
Tours accepts Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Cashier’s
Check, Money Order, or personal checks if your tour is more than
60 days in advance. (Although we will accept cash, we do not
recommend it as a form of payment.) |
| Q: |
Do
you offer discounts for multiple tours? |
| A: |
Yes! We do offer
discounts when booking more than fifteen people in a tour at
a time. Ask us when booking about discounts.
|
| Q: |
Do
you offer senior discounts? |
| A: |
Yes! Ask us when
booking about senior discounts.
|
| Q: |
What
are the weight and size restrictions of luggage? |
| A: |
The
weight and size restrictions of luggage varies from airline to airline.
We recommend you contact the airline with whom you are traveling and
ask them, directly. We also suggest you utilize a suitcase that rolls
and has a handle – they’re just so much easier to maneuver. For
additional information about what you can pack, and what is allowed on
board planes these days, check the Transportation Security
Administration's website at http://www.tsa.dhs.gov/
|
| Q: |
Will
I need an electricity converter? |
| A: |
Yes. The standard
electrical voltage in Britain is 240 v AC, 50HZ. A three square
pronged adapter plug and/or electric converter for appliances
are required to utilize your American (or Canadian) electrical
appliances in the U.K.
|
| Q: |
Do
they use the British Pound or the Euro in the UK? |
| A: |
Although a small
handful of central London retailers and some tourist attractions
may accept Euros, we do not recommend you carry them, since the
vast majority of retailers utilize the British Pound only. Our
recommendation – stick with the Great British Pound. (If
you wish to check today’s exchange rate, please check http://www.x-rates.com/calculator.html,
or http://www.xe.com/ucc/.)
|
| Q: |
Can
you exchange my dollars for pounds and vice versa at Across the
Pond Tours? |
| A: |
No. We recommend you either utilize Travelers’ Cheques,
or that you exchange cash prior to leaving. We strongly advise
against waiting until you are at the airport to exchange dollars
to pounds (and vice versa) as the transaction rates tend to be
much higher at these locales. You should have some cash in British
Pounds prior to leaving so that you are able to tip as necessary
upon arrival.
|
| Q: |
What
about tipping in the UK? |
| A: |
Tipping is different in the UK. Across the Pond
Tours has a Tipping Guide that we will supply you with upon booking
your tour. This guide should answer all your questions pertaining
to tips.
|
| Q: |
What
kind of hotel accommodations can I expect? |
| A: |
Top class - four
and five star properties! We’re just mad about really great
hotels and we want you to be, also. (If you are looking for a
more economical property, we can do that, too - just ask!) You
should feel comfortable and relaxed when you’re away from
home. Whether that means you lounge in a pair of jeans and a
sweater, or your ‘dressed to the nines’ for an evening
out, we want you to feel comfortable and have every amenity you
could possibly desire at your disposal. (Note: Because of the
nature of Walking/Hiking Tours and Cycling Tours, accommodations
on these itineraries are not in the luxury category, but are
still very comfortable.)
|
| Q: |
Why
can’t I book my trip online? |
| A: |
We
want to ensure that you are getting exactly what you expect. While we
realize that in this world of modern technology booking a trip online
is commonplace, we prefer a more personalized approach. This allows us
to make sure you are completely happy with the trip you book with us.
|
| Q: |
I’m
nervous about driving on the other side of the road? What
can I expect? |
| A: |
Driving on the
left side of the road may be a bit daunting at first. But Across
the Pond Tours will supply you with a Rules of the Road guide,
and any additional information you will require (such as the
London Congestion Charge, etc.) Additionally, we’ll make
sure that all car rentals have an automatic shift, rather than
a manual shift (unless you prefer manual), so that you’re
more at ease. But don’t worry, after a while, you’ll
certainly get the hang of it.
|
| Q: |
What
kind of clothing should I pack? |
| A: |
That depends.
The season, itinerary and location of your tour will determine
what clothing is appropriate to pack. We will point out, however,
that in general, the British tend to dress slightly more formally
than you may be accustomed to (although we’re not suggesting
it’s all white ties and tiaras). We will be happy to advise
you with a “packing list” when you book with us so
that you will always feel appropriately attired.
|
| Don’t see your
question here? Contact Across the Pond Tours at 310-373-2720,
or toll-free at 866-4UK-TRAVEL, or e-mail us at info@acrossthepondtours.com. |