Best Of Scandinavia & The Baltics Christmas & New Year
Best Of Scandinavia & The Baltics Christmas & New Year
Best Of Scandinavia & The Baltics Christmas & New Year
20 Days Starting in Copenhagen and ending in Hotel in Warsaw
Visiting: Copenhagen, Hirtshals, Bergen, Oslo, Stockholm, Helsinki, Tallinn, Riga, Vilnius, Gdansk, Warsaw
Tour operator:
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
10 - 51
Age range:
10-99
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
This is the ultimate festive journey through Scandinavia & the Baltics! Experience Copenhagen in winter and discover Denmark. See Stockholm and Sigtuna in Sweden. Explore Norway’s wintery scenery and celebrate Christmas in Bergen. Helsinki in December is a dream and bringing in the New Year here will create memories to last a lifetime. Then, behold the Baltics and uncover the many wonders of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania before exploring Gdansk, Warsaw and more in Poland. Over 20 days, explore 8 countries, many charming towns, bustling cities, natural wonders and hidden gems during the festive season!
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Start Of Tour In Copenhagen
Location: Copenhagen
Meals Included: Dinner
Your Best of Scandinavia and the Baltics Christmas tour begins today in wintery Copenhagen! Meet up with your tour leader at the hotel in Copenhagen this morning for an overview of the exciting upcoming itinerary. Then, join an expert local guide and discover Denmark’s enchanting capital city! Tick off some of the city’s top sights including the Little Mermaid Statue and the picture-perfect Nyhavn Waterfront. Enjoy some free time afterwards to explore on your own. Why not visit Tivoli Gardens and admire their magical Christmas displays? This evening, enjoy an included welcome dinner with the group and get to know your fellow travellers.
Guided tour of Copenhagen: Enjoy a walking tour of Copenhagen with a local guide. Highlights include the famous Nyhavn Waterfront, Rosenborg Castle, the Town Hall, the Little Mermaid statue and Amalienborg Palace.
Day 2: Copenhagen: Free Day
Location: Copenhagen
Meals Included: Breakfast
Look forward to a free day to spend in Copenhagen as you wish! This charming city is full of colour and creativity. Choose to revisit some of the places seen on yesterday’s orientation tour, stroll along the waterfront, spend time at Tivoli Gardens or enjoy sweeping city views from the Rundetaarn astronomical observatory. Alternatively, join today’s optional excursion and enjoy a canal cruise, delve deep into Denmark’s history with a visit to the National Museum and visit a local market for lunch. This is the best way to experience Copenhagen’s local culture.
Day 3: Copenhagen - Odense - Aarhus - Hirtshals (Ferry Port)
Location: Hirtshals
Meals Included: Breakfast
Leaving Copenhagen after breakfast, more Danish delights await today! Today’s first stop is Odense, Denmark’s third-largest city which is famously the birthplace of fairytale author Hans Christian Anderson. Discover this charming city on an orientation tour and during your free time. Next stop is Denmark’s second-biggest city, Aarhus. Embark on an orientation tour of this buzzing city which offers a blend of contemporary architecture, Viking history and an open-air museum which will give you a taste of old Denmark. Finally, arrive at the Hirtshals ferry port and settle in for an overnight ferry cruise towards Bergen, Norway!
Orientation tour of Odense: Explore the highlights of Odense, the hometown of Hans Christian Andersen. Join your tour leader and learn more about Odense’s history as well as its most famous inhabitant. Try and see if you can identify some of the inspiration for his fairytales!
Orientation tour of Aarhus: Enjoy a tour and learn more about the bustling city of Aarhus. Aarhus is home to Den Gamle By, an Old Town that doubles as an open-air museum offering insight into the Danish way of life from centuries ago.
Overnight ferry to Norway: Arrive in Hirtshals seaport and hop aboard the ferry. Get ready to enjoy an overnight cruise to Bergen, Norway.
Day 4: Overnight Ferry - Bergen
Location: Bergen
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
HeiNorway! Wake up aboard the ferry and admire the beauty of Norway’s nature while cruising towards Bergen. Upon arrival in Bergen, join your tour leader on an orientation tour. See the UNESCO-listed Bryggen Quay, which will be decorated with sparkling Christmas lights, and the picturesque city centre. The afternoon is free to stroll the charming streets of Bergen on your own, visit the city’s Christmas market or join in on an adventure to some quaint fishing villages near Bergen. This optional excursion offers a fascinating glimpse into local life! This is the best way to spend Christmas Eve in Bergen.Cruise through Norway’s magnificent fjordsExplore Bergen; known as “the city among the seven mountains”
Day 5: Bergen: Free Day (Christmas Day)
Location: Bergen
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Merry Christmas! Or, as they say in Norway “God Jul”. Look forward to a full free day to experience this magical city in all its festive glory. Be sure to visit the Pepperkakebyen (Gingerbread town), the world’s largest of its kind! Or, do some souvenir shopping at Bergen’s Christmas market. To truly explore the wonders of Bergen, join the ever-popular Bergen+ optional excursion. Embark on a ferry cruise, a guided Bryggen tour and a funicular ride on the Fløibanen up Fløyen mountain which, when covered in snow, is a real winter wonderland! End this festive day with a drink at Bergen’s incredible Magic Ice Bar before an included Christmas dinner. You’ll never forget your Christmas in Norway!
Day 6: Bergen - Flam - Gudvangen
Location: Oslo
Meals Included: Dinner
Get ready to discover majestic Norwegian natural scenery today! After breakfast, leave Bergen behind and head to today’s first stop. Arrive in Gudvangen, a breathtaking village which sits at the end of Nærøyfjord, one of Norway’s most sought-after fjords. Here, choose to embark on an exciting optional excursion to a Viking village followed by a true highlight of Norway tour packages - a fjord cruise through the Nærøyfjord and Aurlandsfjorden fjords! Have your cameras at the ready for spectacular sights all around. Later, arrive in Flam. After some free time, travel back to Gudvangen where the tour will spend the night. Enjoy an included dinner at the hotel.Marvel at Norway’s spectacular natural sceneryVisit Gudvangen near Norway’s most famous fjord
Day 7: Gudvangen - Oslo
Location: Oslo
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today, get ready to explore Oslo, Norway’s laidback capital city. On the way, stop at Gol Stave Church and admire this fascinating wooden structure. Once in Oslo, embark on an insightful walking tour. Join an expert local guide in discovering this city which is home to the Norwegian royal family. Admire the Royal Palace and Akershus Castle among many more Oslo highlights. The rest of the day is free to explore at your own pace. Your tour leader will offer some suggestions on how to make the most of your evening in Oslo.
Enjoy a photo stop at Gol Stave Church
See the highlights of Oslo with a local guide
Day 8: Oslo - Karlstad - Sigtuna - Stockholm
Location: Stockholm
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Tick the next country off your bucket list as the tour travels to Sweden today! Look forward to some Swedish hidden gems on the way to Stockholm, the captivating capital of Sweden. Halfway between Oslo and Stockholm lies the city of Karlstad. Sitting on the shores of Lake Vänern, Karlstad is beloved for its natural beauty, outdoor activities and Viking history! Next stop is Sigtuna, Sweden’s oldest town! Stroll down the town’s main street and learn about the importance this city held until the 13th century. After, enjoy some free time to grab lunch or wander around. In the evening, arrive in Stockholm and check into the hotel. Dinner is included tonight and traditional Swedish meatballs are on the menu!
Stop in Karlstad: Discover this small city on the shores of Lake Vänern which is conveniently located between Oslo and Stockholm. Karlstad is known for its outdoor activities and ancient Viking history.
Visit Sigtuna: Enjoy a visit to Sweden’s oldest town! Founded by King Erik the Victorious in 970 AD, Sigtuna is home to the oldest Main Street in the country.
Swedish meatballs for dinner: It’s time to tuck into a Swedish classic - meatballs! Join the group and enjoy this included dinner tonight.
Day 9: Stockholm: Free Day
Location: Stockholm
Meals Included: Breakfast
God morgon, Stockholm! Today is free to experience this vibrant city as you wish, but first, join a local guide for a tour of some of Stockholm’s most iconic sights including the Royal Palace and Gamla Stan (the old town). After, explore the cobblestoned streets and colourful buildings of Gamla Stan or visit one of Stockholm’s celebrated museums. Some of the best museums in Stockholm include the entertaining ABBA Museum and the insightful Nobel Prize Museum. Today also offers the opportunity to join the Nautical Stockholm optional excursion. Visit the fascinating Vasa Museum and cruise Stockholm’s islands! However you choose to spend this free day, be sure to make time for aFika- a relaxing coffee and pastry break.Explore Stockholm with a local guide
Day 10: Stockholm - Overnight Ferry To Helsinki
Location: Stockholm
Meals Included: Breakfast
AdjöSweden! After breakfast, wave goodbye to Stockholm and prepare to set off on a journey to the next country - Finland! Make the most of the last few hours in Stockholm this morning. Explore some more sights, grab some souvenirs or sit down for a local lunch. Arrive at the ferry port this afternoon and get ready to board the overnight ferry from Sweden to Helsinki. Look forward to a range of onboard entertainment and marvel at the views as you cruise. Tonight, choose to indulge in an optional Swedish buffet dinner!Catch an overnight ferry to Helsinki, Finland
Day 11: Helsinki (New Year’S Eve)
Location: Helsinki
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
It’s the last day of the year and the first day in Helsinki! Welcome to the seaside capital city of Finland. Known for its islands, saunas and minimalistic architecture, Helsinki is wonderfully quirky and innovative. Upon arrival at the Helsinki hotel, set off on a walking and driving tour with a knowledgeable local guide. Discover some of the many highlights of Helsinki including Senate Square, the towering Helsinki and Upsenski cathedrals and Havis Amanda. Take the rest of the afternoon to explore the city at your own pace. Why not warm up in one of the city’s popular saunas? Tonight, sit down for an included group dinner and celebrate the last night of the year together!
Guided tour of Helsinki: Enjoy an insightful driving and walking tour of Helsinki with a local guide this evening and see the city’s top sights and attractions. See the Havis Amanda, the famous art nouveau fountain which is said to symbolise the birth of the city of Helsinki, visit Senate Square, see Helsinki Cathedral which is Finland's most photographed building, and marvel at Uspenski Cathedral which is the largest orthodox church in Western Europe. Finish off the guided tour with a walk through Kauppatori Market where you can shop for souvenirs, keepsakes and well-priced Finnish crafts!
New Year’s Eve dinner: This evening, celebrate New Year’s Eve with a delicious traditional dinner at a popular local restaurant in Helsinki.
Day 12: Helsinki: Free Day
Location: Helsinki
Meals Included: Breakfast
Greet the brand new year in Helsinki! After last night’s celebrations, take it easy today and enjoy a free day to wander around the city, relax or sightsee. Did you know that Finland consumes more coffee than any other country in the world? Helsinki is home to a wide range of coffee shops, many of which also offer enticing pastries. You could also take a ferry to Suomenlinna island and visit its fascinating museum. Or, further explore some of the spots seen on yesterday’s tour.
Day 13: Helsinki - Tallinn
Location: Tallinn
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
The next country awaits! Depart Helsinki this morning and catch a ferry to Tallinn, Estonia’s enchanting capital city. Sail across the Gulf of Finland and arrive in the Baltics this afternoon. Upon arrival in Tallinn, soak up the city’s unmatched medieval atmosphere at a historic restaurant located in the Old Town square. Then, join a local guide on a walking tour of this fairytale city which is sure to captivate with its striking spires, colourful houses and incredible viewpoints. The rest of the evening is free. Why not warm up with some mulled wine as you wander Tallinn’s cobblestone streets? In contrast to the Old Town, the hip and artsy Kalamaja area is also worth a visit.
Helsinki to Tallinn ferry crossing: Hop aboard and enjoy a cruise across the Gulf of Finland, from Finland to Estonia. Be sure to take in the scenic views as the ferry makes its way to Tallinn.
Lunch at a medieval restaurant in Tallinn: Enjoy lunch at a restaurant in the heart of Tallinn’s Old Town Square.
Guided tour of Tallinn: Join a local guide for a tour of Tallinn, Estonia’s lively capital! Filled with mediaeval churches, cobbled walkways and a vibrant, contemporary culture, Tallinn is a photographer's dream. Highlights include St Olav's church, the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Tall Hermann Tower, Town Hall Square and more.
Day 14: Tallinn - Pärnu - Latvian Military Cemetery - Riga
Location: Riga
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy one more stop in Estonia before the tour travels to the next country. This morning, head to Pärnu, a resort city. Aside from its popular beach, Pärnu is home to picturesque houses, creative street art and a relaxing atmosphere. Then, travel onwards to Riga, Latvia. First stop is the Latvian Military Cemetery, a national monument that honours the over 2,000 Latvian soldiers who lost their lives during WWI. After checking into the hotel, depart for an orientation tour through Riga’s Old Town which is renowned for its exceptional Art Nouveau architecture which is best displayed in the iconic facade of the House of the Black Heads. The evening is free to relax, grab dinner or explore more.
Visit Pärnu: Enjoy a stop in the resort city of Pärnu in southwestern Estonia. Pärnu is a seaside city overlooking Pärnu Bay and is renowned for its street art, colourful houses and scenic beach.
Visit the Latvian Military Cemetery: Also called the Brothers' Cemetery or Cemetery of the Brethren, the Latvian Military Cemetery is a national monument that commemorates the sacrifice of 2,000+ Latvian soldiers who gave their lives for their country during 1915-1920, fighting in World War I and the Latvian War of Independence.
Orientation tour of Riga: Embark on an orientation walking tour of Riga, Latvia’s exciting capital city. See the impressive architecture and learn more about Latvia’s history and culture. Riga boasts a cosmopolitan atmosphere combined with Gothic and Art Nouveau architecture. The city is home to popular landmarks like the Riga Dom Cathedral, the Houses of the Black Heads, Parliament House, the Three Brothers, the Old City Wall and the Freedom Monument.
Day 15: Riga - Hill Of Crosses - Vilnius
Location: Vilnius
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Tick off your third country in three days! The last (but certainly not least) of the Baltic capitals is just waiting to be explored today. Cross the border from Latvia into Lithuania this morning and pay a visit to the mysterious Hill of Crosses. Finally, arrive in Vilnius, the vibrant capital of Lithuania. Set off on an orientation tour of this city which boasts a UNESCO-listed Old Town, over 700 years of history and exquisite Baroque architecture. Afterwards, enjoy free time to explore Užupis, a self-proclaimed artists republic or wander the cobbled streets of the Old Town, which is one of the largest in Europe, before sitting down for dinner at a traditional restaurant this evening.
Visit the Hill of Crosses: Experience a visit to the Kryziu Kalnas Hill of Crosses in Lithuania which has been one of the world’s most singular expressions of human faith and sacrifice for over 100 years. Pilgrims have been flocking to the sight for centuries and today there are 200,000+ crosses, carvings and shrines. The tradition of leaving crosses on the hill began only in 1831 by relatives of rebels who died fighting the Russian tsar of the time.
Orientation tour of Vilnius: Join your tour leader for an orientation tour of Vilnius. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers centuries of history to explore, and has a long and storied past. Learn about the history and see more of this city’s Baroque-style architecture and medieval buildings and monuments. Highlights include the Vilnius Cathedral, the Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania, the Vilnius Town Hall and the Adam Mickiewicz statue. You can also cross the river into the Užupio Respublika, a self-proclaimed republic within Vilnius which has its own constitution and an army of 11 men.
Day 16: Vilnius - Trakai - Gdansk
Location: Gdansk
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Bye-bye, Baltics! The next, and last, country of this festive tour is on the cards today. Before leaving Lithuania, travel to Trakai, a quaint town home to a magnificent island castle which is particularly magical in winter. Then, sit back and relax as the coach makes its way across the border into Poland. Admire the wintry landscapes along the way. Arrive in Gdansk, a vibrant and scenic port city, this evening. After freshening up at the hotel, embark on an orientation tour and marvel at Gdansk’s blend of architectural styles before sitting down for an included buffet dinner.Marvel at Trakai Island CastleDiscover Gdansk, a charming Polish city
Day 17: Gdansk: Free Day
Location: Gdansk
Meals Included: Breakfast
Discover the many highlights of Gdansk with this full day. Begin the day with a locally guided walking tour of this beautiful city which underwent extensive reconstruction after WWII. Uncover the history of Gdansk while experiencing its top attractions including the Old Town and Long Market Square. The rest of the day is free to spend however you wish. Take a stroll along the Motława riverside, admire the ornate interior of the Gdansk Town Hall or take in the views from the Amber Sky ferris wheel! Gdansk has so much to offer its visitors that you’ll be spoilt for choice when deciding how to spend this free day.
Walking tour of Gdansk: Find out more about this unique port city on a walking tour. Join a local guide who will point out the top attractions and provide some historic insight into Gdansk’s past as well as its present. Gdansk underwent major reconstruction after most of the city was destroyed during WWII.
Day 18: Gdansk - Malbork Castle - Toruń - Warsaw
Location: Warsaw
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Say goodbye to Gdansk and wave to Warsaw later today. But first, take a trip to Malbork Castle. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the world’s largest castle! Embark on a guided tour of this awe-inspiring 13th-century castle and fortress. The next stop is the medieval town of Toruń, yet another UNESCO site to add to the list! Toruń is known as the birthplace of Nicolaus Copernicus, a renowned astronomer as well as being home to the endearing Museum of Gingerbread. Look forward to making fun memories with an interactive gingerbread demonstration. Then, head to Warsaw and check into the hotel where the group will spend the night.Explore Malbork Castle; the largest castle in the worldVisit Torun; a mediaeval town in PolandEnjoy a gingerbread workshop in Torun
Day 19: Warsaw
Location: Warsaw
Meals Included: Dinner
Witam Warsaw!Discover Poland’s historic and enigmatic capital city this morning on a walking and driving tour with a knowledgeable local guide. Learn about Warsaw’s fascinating and at times turbulent past while admiring top sights including the Royal Castle, Old Town (which was rebuilt after WWII) and the Palace of Culture. The rest of the day is free to explore at your own pace. A visit to one of Warsaw’s excellent museums is highly recommended. There’s the Warsaw Rising Museum, the National Museum, the Museum of Fryderyk Chopin and many more to choose from. Alternatively, join the Highlights of Warsaw optional excursion to experience Warsaw’s beautiful parks, architecture and cuisine! This evening, look forward to a farewell group dinner.Explore Warsaw with a local guide
Day 20: End Of Tour In Warsaw
Location: Warsaw
Meals Included: Breakfast
After a jam-packed 20-day festive journey through Scandinavia & the Baltics, the tour comes to an end this morning after breakfast. Don’t forget to exchange content details with your newfound travel buddies before travelling onwards to your next destination. Expat Explore wishes you a safe trip home and cannot wait to see you on tour again with us soon!
What's Included
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Accommodation
19nights hotel accommodation in twin rooms with private bathrooms. The majority of our accommodations are of a 3- and 4-star standard, offering excellent value, comfort and convenience
Single travellers have the option to pay a single supplement to ensure a private room/cabin (subject to availability) -
Transport
Modern air-conditioned coach with reclining seats and toilet onboard
Two overnight ferries
Any public transport used as part of the tour (excludes free days) -
Meals
19 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 8 Dinners*Vegetarian options available for all meals on request
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Tour Leader
Fully guided tour with experienced tour leader
Tour leader will accompany group throughout and manage all logistical details
What's Not Included
International flightsTravel to the start point and from the end point is not included. We recommend using Skyscanner to find the best deals on international flights.Travel insuranceFor a relatively small price, travel insurance provides you with peace of mind so that you can enjoy your tour without any worries.
All passengers travelling on an Expat Explore tour are required to have valid travel insurance cover and you are responsible for arranging your own insurance.
Mode of Transport
Modern air-conditioned coach with reclining seats and toilet onboard
Two overnight ferries
Any public transport used as part of the tour (excludes free days)
Accommodation
19nights hotel accommodation in twin rooms with private bathrooms. The majority of our accommodations are of a 3- and 4-star standard, offering excellent value, comfort and convenience
Single travellers have the option to pay a single supplement to ensure a private room/cabin (subject to availability)
Traveller Comfort - *COACH* tours
We welcome all travellers on our tours but we would like to ensure that you are as comfortable as possible. In light of this, please ensure that you are happy with the below information and level of fitness required.
Expat Explore tries to be as accommodating as possible, however, our tours are unfortunately not designed for people travelling with wheelchairs or severe mobility issues.
Our tours are fast paced because they are designed for you to see the most a destination has to offer. We also want to ensure that you explore as much as possible, which may require long periods without stops on the coach as we drive to a new destination.
We offer walking tours in most cities (up to 3 hours), and a wheelchair is not always a practical option as there are often cobbled streets and stairs on these tours.
For travellers in wheelchairs, you will only be able to store your wheelchair under the coach with the other luggage. Thus, on the long drives between cities you will not necessarily have access to your wheelchair if we make a quick bathroom stop along the way. Please note that travelling with a wheelchair could prove difficult as our coaches don't have wheelchair lifts, as such you will need to be able to board and alight the coach on your own.
With regards to our accommodation, not all hotels have lifts and this means potentially having to carry bags up and down stairs.
For more information regarding traveller fitness please see our Terms and Conditions.
Health and Fitness
We welcome all travellers on our tours but we would like to ensure that you are as comfortable as possible. In light of this, please ensure that you are happy with the below information and level of fitness required.
Expat Explore tries to be as accommodating as possible, however, our tours are unfortunately not designed for people travelling with wheelchairs or severe mobility issues.
Our tours are fast paced because they are designed for you to see the most a destination has to offer. We also want to ensure that you explore as much as possible, which may require long periods without stops on the coach as we drive to a new destination.
We offer walking tours in most cities (up to 3 hours), and a wheelchair is not always a practical option as there are often cobbled streets and stairs on these tours.
For travellers in wheelchairs, you will only be able to store your wheelchair under the coach with the other luggage. Thus, on the long drives between cities you will not necessarily have access to your wheelchair if we make a quick bathroom stop along the way. Please note that travelling with a wheelchair could prove difficult as our coaches don't have wheelchair lifts, as such you will need to be able to board and alight the coach on your own.
With regards to our accommodation, not all hotels have lifts and this means potentially having to carry bags up and down stairs.
Experiences
Enjoy a guided tour of Copenhagen; Denmark's capital city
Explore Odense; hometown of Hans Christian Anderson
Visit Aarhus; a captivating Danish city
Catch an overnight ferry to Norway
Cruise through Norway’s magnificent fjords
Explore Bergen; known as “the city among the seven mountains”
Marvel at Norway’s spectacular natural scenery
Visit Gudvangen near Norway’s most famous fjord
Enjoy a photo stop at Gol Stave Church
See the highlights of Oslo with a local guide
Discover Karlstad on an orientation tour
Visit Sigtuna; Sweden’s oldest town
Tuck into Swedish meatballs in Stockholm
Explore Stockholm with a local guide
Catch an overnight ferry to Helsinki, Finland
See the sights on a driving tour of Helsinki; Finland’s capital city
Join a local guide for a walking tour of Helsinki
Celebrate New Year’s Eve with a local Helsinki dinner
Catch a ferry from Helsinki to Tallinn
Enjoy lunch at a medieval restaurant in Tallinn
Discover Tallinn with a local guide
Sightsee in Pärnu; a resort city in Estonia
Learn about Latvian history at the Latvian War Cemetery
Discover Riga; Latvia’s vibrant capital
Visit the famous Hill of Crosses in Lithuania
Explore Vilnius; capital of Lithuania
Marvel at Trakai Island Castle
Discover Gdansk, a charming Polish city
Delve into Gdansk’s history with a local guide
Explore Malbork Castle; the largest castle in the world
Visit Torun; a mediaeval town in Poland
Enjoy a gingerbread workshop in Torun
Explore Warsaw with a local guide
Check out our Q&As
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Are airport transfers included in this tour?
No, you will need to make your own arrangements to get to the meeting point for the first day of your tour. Please see the meeting point information for details on how to reach the meeting point.
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Are all entrance fees included in the price?
No, entrance fees are not included. Are all entrance fees included in the price?
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Are all the relevant entry visa’s included in the price of the tour?
No, visas are each traveler’s personal responsibility, and we recommend that plenty of time is allowed for visas to be applied for. When applying for your visa, please ensure that the proper research is carried out before you apply, and that you deal directly with the embassies or certified agents with regard to acquiring correct and timely information. We cannot take responsibility for customers
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Are children permitted to take part in the tour?
Our tours are not suitable for young children, so we set a minimum age limit of 10 years old.
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Are flights included in this tour?
No, you will need to make your own arrangements to get to the meeting destination for the first day of your tour. Make sure you keep departure times and possible delays in mind when booking flights.
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Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?
All our tours are conducted in English.
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Are vaccinations required for this tour?
We are committed to curating excellent travel experiences and to do so we need all of our travelers to feel safe.
In order to ensure the peace of mind and safety of our travelers and staff on board the coach, we are still requesting that all travellers, regardless of their vaccination status, produce a negative Covid test. This test can be a PCR test -
Do you require a visa for this holiday?
Certain nationalities may require a visa(s) for this tour.
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Is free Wi-Fi available in the accommodation used?
All of the hotels on this tour offer Wi-Fi, which is available free of charge as part of your Expat Explore tour.
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Is the tour coach air conditioned?
Yes, Full air-conditioning
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Is there a limit to luggage that can be brought on the tour?
Due to weight and space limitations, you are allowed to bring one main piece of luggage weighing no more than 20kg, and one small soft bag for hand luggage weighing a maximum of 7kg. On all tours, you will have to carry your own luggage (e.g. into hotels and up to your room if hotels don’t have elevators). Please bear this in mind when you are deciding what to pack
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Is there a supplement for solo travellers?
There is an optional single supplement/private room upgrade available for single travellers who wish to have a private room. This can be added at the time of booking or by contacting our customer services team. Please note that the room provided may be a single room with a single bed.
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Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?
Yes, As detailed in the itinerary
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What is the fitness level required to do this tour?
All travellers are required to carry their own bags, get on and off the coach, and use public transport. Our city walking tours can last up to 3 hours and certain places involve walking up and down lots of steps. We want you to enjoy your tour, so read through the itinerary thoroughly and make your own conclusions as to whether you feel that you are fit and healthy enough.
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What is the maximum group size?
It depends on how many other people book! There could be up to 51 other passengers, so you will have the opportunity to make lots of friends!
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What is the standard of the hotels on this tour?
We have searched and invested in excellent accommodation options, either located in cities or well placed with public transport connections. Clean linen, towels is always included. Toiletries (shampoo, shower gel etc) and hair dryers are not always included, so you may wish to bring these with you. Accommodation is provided in twin share en-suite rooms. We use a mix of mostly 2, 3 & 4-star hotels.
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What is the tipping policy?
Whilst we fully understand that some nationalities are not accustomed to tipping, this is a normal part of the culture in many of the countries we visit. Tipping has become an increasingly accepted practice in all areas of the service industry, but particularly in restaurants, bars and taxis worldwide. Expat Explore crew members
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Will I know the names and details of all the accommodation before I depart?
A full list of confirmed accommodation names and addresses for your particular departure will be emailed to you around 1 week before the tour starts.
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Will passengers from another country be participating in the tour?
Our travelers come from all walks of life, with different backgrounds and interests.
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Will there be an escort accompanying this tour?
Our tour leaders come from all walks of life, with different backgrounds and interests. They are all confident and well-travelled with an in-depth knowledge of the destinations they are working in, and a passion for helping you make the most out of your Expat Explore tour.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
If you are travelling alone there is no compulsory charge - you will share a twin room with another passenger of the same gender. There is an optional single supplement/private room upgrade available for single travellers who wish to have a private room. This can be added at the time of booking or by contacting our team.
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Children on tour?
Our tours are not suitable for young children which is why we have a minimum age limit of 10 years old. However, at the discretion of Expat Explore we may consider younger children on certain tours if they meet certain criteria and a request is received in writing via email. Minors (between 10 and 18 years of age) must be accompanied by a parent or guardian who accepts full responsibility for them. Unaccompanied minors will not be accepted on tour. Expat Explore reserves the right to decline any booking at our discretion. Any minor (between 10 and 18 years of age) is priced the same as an adult.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
The health and safety of our travellers and employees are our top priority. Which means, when you travel with us, our enhanced hygiene protocols will ensure you do so in a safe and responsible way - ask for details of current policies.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 2005
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
At Expat Explore we value responsible travel and are committed to exploring the world consciously and kindly. We are proud to make responsible travel possible with a number of our sustainable travel practices!
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Am I contributing to any charity by booking the tour?
Relate is a South African based not-for-profit organisation that Expat Explore supports. The group aims to help those less fortunate create better lives for themselves through a variety of fundraising initiatives. On our South Africa tours, each passenger will receive an Expat Explore branded Relate bracelet. We donate the cost of these bracelets to our chosen Relate charity: the Nelson Mandela Sc
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Book with Confidence
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Free Date Changes
Expat Explore Travel allows you to make 5 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 91 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
Expat Explore Travel requires a minimum deposit of 10% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of expat explore travel charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 20% of booking price.
At 44 days before tour starts: Forfeit 40% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 70% of booking price.
At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.