Answers to Frequently Asked Travel Questions (FAQ)

 

Be sure your passport is current! Without a current passport, you will be turned away at the airport. Your passport needs to be valid for 6 months after your group’s return date.

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Make 2 copies of your passport, leaving one at home with family or friends and the other to be kept with you in a separate place than your original. Always carry your original passport with you at all times. Never leave your passport unattended.

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Leave a copy of your itinerary, hotel names with phone numbers and Pilgrimage Tours’ toll free number (800-278-1351) with family or friends. If you need to call home, the best way is to call with a calling card that is assigned to your home long distance carrier. Calls can be made directly from your hotel room, but these rates will be much higher.

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If you are sharing a room with somebody, then coordinate your packing so that you do not duplicate items such as alarm clocks, hair dryers, voltage converters and appliance adaptors. Overseas, there are different types of outlets with higher voltage standards than in the U.S. so consult your local electronics store, such as Radio Shack, to get the correct voltage adaptor and transformer needed for your destination countries.

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Make sure that your luggage, including carry-on, is properly tagged and clearly labeled. You are permitted one piece of checked luggage and one carry-on. Your carry-on must be able to fit under your seat or in the overhead compartment. Oversized carry-on pieces will be checked. When you pack your carry-on, be sure that you have what you need to survive should your luggage not arrive at your destination on time. Include such items as your passport, medications, valuables, toiletries and a change of clothing.

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Bring copies of your prescription medications. Please be aware that some over-the-counter medicines are not available abroad and should be brought with you if you deem necessary.

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Pack any personal items that could accidentally spill in a Zip Loc plastic bag to minimize any potential damage caused by containers that might open during travel. Such items would include shampoo, colognes, lotions and sunscreen.

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Dress comfortably, especially with regard to shoes. Be sure to wear shoes that you have already broken in. When visiting churches, modesty is the rule. Women are free to wear slacks. However, shoulders should be covered when entering religious sites. Again, be comfortable and respectful.

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Be prepared for all types of weather by packing clothing that you can easily layer. We recommend such items as hats, sweatshirts, sweaters, a rain pancho/slicker and a light jacket. Also consider bringing a compact umbrella and remember to bring sunscreen for those sunny days.

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Money can be converted to local currency at exchange shops, located at the airport and your hotel. Your Tour Director will certainly have the best solution for you upon your arrival. In the Middle East, the American dollar is the preferred currency. Bring 50-100 $1 bills that will enable you to buy souvenirs, post cards and other items from the street vendors. In Europe, travelers’ checks and credit cards are the best solution for your spending needs. Credit cards are accepted in most all gift shops and restaurants in both the Middle East and in Europe.

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Seat assignments on the airplane can be made only when you arrive at the airport to check-in and receive your boarding pass. The only exception to this rule is for people who have specific, medical requirements and may require a doctor’s note. Requests for special dietary needs should be made to the airlines directly after you receive your final travel documents from Pilgrimage Tours. You are expected to check-in at the airport at least two hours prior to your departure time.

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Remember to bring and wear your name badge at all times, as it makes life much simpler in recognizing fellow group members and when it’s time to enter the sites on your tour, local personnel will be able to identify you as a member of your group.

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Travel Insurance is strongly recommended. The plan offered by Travel Guard will cover a number of situations, including cancellation, travel delay, lost luggage, sickness, hospitalization and more. They can be reached anytime at 1-800-549-9037.

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While on your pilgrimage, your group will be led by a Tour Director, specializing in your group’s itinerary and locale. He or she will be able to answer many of your questions that may arise during your tour. They will give you good advice and point you in the right direction. Another source for any local information during your tour would be the Front Desk personnel at your hotel.

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