Islands of New England

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Travel Tips

1. Accommodations

   At the time of booking, you will be asked what type of room you would like.

   A double room has either one large bed or two smaller ones. Double rooms are perfect for couples or if you're travelling with a companion and wish to share a room. There are plenty of double rooms available on our tours.

   A single or solo room has only one bed and may be smaller in size. These rooms are first come, first-served, as most properties have only a certain amount of these available.

   A triple room usually consists of a standard double room with two beds. A cot or fold-up bed may be added, but it depends on the room size and local fire codes. Triples are first come, first-served, as they are also very limited. If you booked a triple and only a double and single room is available at a hotel, appropriate charges for the single and double accommodations will be assessed.

   We will forward your request to the hotel and do our best to accommodate your needs; however, please know that we cannot make any guarantees.

   On every tour, we look to provide the highest quality accommodations in the best location. If you're visiting a city, we want you in the heart of it. In certain countries, the hotel rooms may not be as large as standard hotel rooms in North America.

   Here are a few details to keep in mind:

   Check-in times are set by individual hotels and can vary, but most hotels offer afternoon check-ins. Depending on your arrival time, you may have to wait before you can get into your room. Some hotels may be willing to store your luggage in a secure location until your room is ready. In these instances, the hotel will not be responsible for lost or stolen items and there may be a charge for this service.

   Please observe check out times at all properties. Hotels designate these as well.

   Some hotels require a credit card imprint or your passport information upon check in in order to activate telephones in the rooms and for potential incidental charges. Most hotels charge an access fee for using phones in hotel rooms. Please check with the front desk personnel at each hotel for specific policies. You will be responsible for all incidental fees occurred during your stay, and these must be paid at time of check out.

   Hotel membership programs are not applicable.

2. ADA

   In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, we will make reasonable efforts to accommodate the special needs of all our guests. However, if you require individual assistance you must be accompanied by a companion who is capable of, and totally responsible for, providing the necessary assistance. Neither our personnel nor the personnel of companies we work with on tour may physically lift or assist our guests onto transportation vehicles. We regret that we cannot provide individual assistance to a tour guest who has special mobility or other like needs.

3. Arrival Day Suggestions

   If you have some time before your tour begins to explore Providence, you'll find plenty to do! Providence is a vibrant and accessible city. Its charming East Side is home to Brown University and many historic buildings, including the first Baptist Church in America, the Athenaeum, The John Brown House and the Old State House. The current State House is located on Smith Street and offers free tours on weekdays.

   The Providence Place Mall is located adjacent to the State House Building and offers you many shopping and dining opportunities.

   Providence is home to many cafes, restaurants and pubs, and is known for its abundance of excellent restaurants.

   For a delicious Italian meal, wander over to The Federal Hill section of the city which is a short stroll from your hotel. Here you'll enjoy Italian dining, cafes to linger over cappuccino and dessert, and shops filled with traditional Italian food and import items.

   Due to varied flight schedules and arrival times of our tour guests, there aren't any scheduled activities on your first day of this tour. Should your flight schedule allow for an early arrival, enjoy this opportunity for some independent exploration.

4. Clothing & Packing Tips

   When you're deciding what to bring on your trip, we have a few suggestions for you.

   In regards to clothing, think layers. It's much easier to maintain a level of comfort if you can add or remove a layer at a time, especially if you're travelling to a destination where the temperature can vary widely. So always, bring a light jacket or sweater. Fleece or wool is best. We recommend staying away from cotton sweaters or jackets as they won't keep you warm if they get wet.

   Comfortable footwear is crucial. Make sure you bring a pair of shoes that fit well and give you the necessary support. If you decide to purchase new shoes for your trip, we suggest you wear them a number of times before you leave to break them in. Your feet will thank you.

   Be prepared for all types of weather. For warm, sunny weather, pack sunscreen, a hat or a bandana/scarf to protect your neck from sunburn. For cool, rainy weather, pack a light raincoat, travel umbrella, waterproof shoes and a thin pair of gloves.

   For your toiletries, pack anything that could leak in plastic bags or a waterproof case. In addition, you might want to bring a washcloth or two. Not all hotels provide them.

   If you take prescription medication, make sure to bring enough for your entire tour plus a few additional days in the original prescription containers.

   Medication should be packed in your carry-on bag, never your checked luggage; this is in case your luggage is delayed. You don't want to be without your medication. You could also bring extra medication in a separate bag in case any gets lost.

   In general, we recommend not packing anything of value in your checked bag.

   You'll want to take pictures of everything, so make sure to bring a camera as well as extra memory cards and batteries for your entire trip. If you decide to bring a video camera, don't forget an extra battery for it plus a charger. Be sure to pack chargers and cords for all your electronic equipment.

   It's also a good idea to bring a travel alarm clock, a travel sewing kit, a portable scale to weigh luggage, and some hand sanitizer for when soap and water aren't readily available.

   If you are travelling with a companion, we suggest dividing the contents of your suitcase with them, that way if one bag is delayed, some of your belongings are still available to you both.

   If that is not an option for you, you could put a change of clothing in your carry-on if there's room. That will give you something to wear if your checked luggage is delayed as well.

   Last but certainly not least, leave room! You'll need it to fit all the souvenirs you want to bring home.

   As you prepare to explore charming New England, enjoy a casual dress style and be sure to pack comfortable walking shoes.

   It is recommended to bring clothing that may be worn in layers and can be added or removed as the temperature changes.

   New England can be rainy at times; therefore, rain gear is suggested such as a raincoat, umbrella and waterproof shoes.

   Summers are comfortable, but pack a sweater or light jacket as it can get cool at night. Fall weather can vary. In general be prepared for cooler evenings with a sweater, shirts with long sleeves, pants, and even a hat and gloves.

   The hotels have swimming facilities, so a bathing suit is recommended for those who enjoy swimming.

5. Currency

   You may want to have a few dollars on hand for smaller purchases. You can find ATMs in airports, hotels, and banks.

   You can also pay with a debit or credit card in most places. Some merchants charge a fee for this service, but it adds an extra guarantee on your purchase, so it's a nice option.

   If you have a credit or debit card with a chip in it, it is recommended you use it rather than a card with a magnetic stripe. The chip adds an extra layer of protection against fraud.

   Many of our tours include optional excursions that are available for purchase. If you decide to go on one of these during your trip, please note, the credit card you use for payment must have an expiration date greater than 30 days from the start of the tour.

6. Electricity

   In North America, the voltage is 120V using plug types A and B, which have two flat, parallel pins. If your plugs do not match this description, you will need an adaptor.

   If you plan to bring a sleep apnea machine, please remember to bring an extension cord along with the adaptor and voltage converter, if necessary.

7. Elevation

   There isn't any significant elevation encountered on this tour.

8. Gratuities

   Tipping is a great way to show your appreciation for the people who help keep your tour running smoothly. But it can be confusing who to tip, when to tip, and how much. For baggage handling and waitstaff gratuities for included meals, the tips are handled by us. For hotel housekeeping staff, local sightseeing guides, transfer drivers, motor coach drivers, and Tour Managers, gratuities are not included in the price of your tour. Here are a few of our suggestions:

   Tour Manager: To express appreciation for your Tour Manager's delivery of excellent service, 5-8 US Dollars (or equivalent in local currency) per person for each travel day is customary. (When to tip: at the end of your tour.)

   Local Guide: For the insights, knowledge, and stories they share with you, 2-3 US Dollars (or equivalent in local currency) per person is recommended. (When to tip: at the end of your day or time with your guide.)

   Motor Coach Driver: To express your appreciation for a job well done, 3-5 US Dollars (or equivalent in local currency) per person for each travel day is customary. (When to tip: at the end of your tour or time with your driver.)

9. Helpful Hints

   Here is a list of entities we recommend you contact before you depart on your tour:

   1.) Your cell phone/mobile carrier if you are planning on using your device. You will want to confirm you will have access in the area(s) you will visit and inquire about any charges you may incur.

   2.) Your credit card company for any card(s) you plan to use. Make sure the card company knows when and where you will be traveling to avoid any charges being declined.

   3.) Your bank, so you can use your ATM/debit card worry-free. If you are travelling to another country, your bank will be able to tell you if your card will work at the ATM machines to dispense local currency, including if your PIN will be accepted. Also, indicate if you plan to use your debit card as a credit card if your card has that option. Your bank will advise you of any charges for each transaction as well.

   Leave a copy of your itinerary, hotel list (included in your tour documents bundle) and a contact number with a designated person in case an emergency comes up while you're away and someone needs to reach you.

   We recommend you leave a copy of your passport at home in a secure location and bring an additional copy with you as a precaution.

   During your flight, make sure to stand up and walk around as much as possible, and drink plenty of water. These simple suggestions will help you stay comfortable, particularly during long flights.

10. Included Features

    Thank you for choosing to travel with us and allowing us to guide you along this adventure! From the moment you step out your door, we strive to provide a comprehensive, stress-free, and unforgettable travel experience. To that end, the following features are included with your tour: motor coach transportation, accommodations, hotel luggage handling* (porterage), select meals, admission to attractions as outlined in your itinerary, and gratuities for bellmen, door attendants and wait staff.

11. Cuisine

    You're in for a treat as you savor the hearty tastes of New England — renowned for its comfort food and wonderfully fresh seafood.

    Popular seafood dishes in New England include lobster, varieties of fish, clams, oysters and quahogs.

    Lingering in a waterfront restaurant over a bowl of chowder is a New England tradition you must try.

    Other common things to try are Boston baked beans, foods and drinks with cranberries, hard ciders and local craft beers.

    Italian cuisine is prevalent, particularly in the Federal Hill section of Providence, its "Little Italy."

    You'll find that the favored cooking techniques are stewing, steaming and baking.

12. Local Guides

    In order to enhance your experience on tour, three local guides will accompany the group in specific locations. These guides come from the region and have a deep understanding of the people and culture. They are joining the tour to share their knowledge with you. Please refer to your Tour Manager for the cities these guides will join your tour and refer to the gratuities section for tipping recommendations.

13. Luggage

    Guests flying to the United States from all international destinations will require extra screening when carrying powdered products weighing 12 oz./ 350 ml or more in carry-on luggage for security reasons. This added security measure will apply to all powders, with the exception of baby formula and medications. For your convenience, please consider packing any non-essential powders in your checked bag. Items that cannot be verified by a TSA officer risk being confiscated. Please visit www.tsa.gov for more information.

    Your day of departure is almost here, and it's time to think about what to pack. We have a few guidelines to help you. But before you pack anything, you must check with your airline for any luggage fees or restrictions. These can vary widely depending on your carrier and destination.

    Let's begin. The first thing to consider is how many bags to bring. We recommend one large bag that will be checked on the plane and onto the touring bus and one carry-on bag. It's very important you keep this in mind. We have limited space on our buses, so limiting the bags ensures there's room for everyone's luggage.

    Your larger bag can't be more than 62 in/157 cm in length, height and width and cannot weigh more than 50lb/23kg. Your carry-on cannot be bigger than 17 x 12 x 10 inches (43 x 30 x 25 centimeters) so it will fit under the seat or in the overhead racks on the buses. Your carry-on should be a size that you can carry comfortably. You will use this bag to hold your personal items during sightseeing trips.

    Please note that if you bring more than one checked bag and one carry-on, we cannot guarantee there will be room for them on the bus. You'll need to store or ship any additional luggage at your own expense. If there is room for your additional luggage, we will charge a fee of 4 USD per bag per hotel. It's also very important that all your bags be labeled clearly. In your packet you will find a plastic luggage tag. Please attach it to the bag you plan to check.

    There is also a paper luggage tag. This tag must be attached to your checked bag once you arrive at the first hotel. The name on this tag should match the information on your reservation exactly, so the Tour Manager and all baggage handlers can properly identify the bag as yours. This will ensure the bag is delivered to you quickly and efficiently.

    Finally, we recommend you purchase travel insurance to ensure peace of mind while you're on tour. We cannot assume liability or accept claims for loss or damage to luggage and personal effects due to breakage, theft or normal wear and tear that results from hotel, airline and group carrier handling. But we offer comprehensive "No Worries Travel Protection" for your convenience. With insurance, you'll be able to focus on creating wonderful memories, not worrying about your luggage.

    Remember the 3-1-1 rule: Each airline passenger is allowed to bring 1 quart-sized bag containing no more than 3 ounces of any liquids, gels, and aerosols in their carry-on bag. Any liquids, including water bottles, that don't fit in the one quart-sized bag or are larger than 3 ounces will be discarded by security. Common items that must comply with this rule include toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, and lotion. For a complete list of what is allowed and not allowed to bring on a plane, visit www.tsa.gov.

14. Meals

    The food people eat is a window into their history, traditions, and values, and sharing food brings people together. One of the many wonderful aspects of travel is to experience as much of the regional cuisine as possible. Your tour includes many meals as outlined on your itinerary. Our team has carefully chosen restaurants that feature local ingredients and offer regional flavors.

    For meals that are not included in your itinerary, your Tour Manager will be happy to recommend eateries and local businesses that best fit your taste and needs.

    The average price for meals in this region ranges from 10 to 15 US Dollars for breakfast, 15 to 25 US Dollars for lunch and 20 to 40 US Dollars for dinner. The water is safe to drink. Be sure to drink plenty of water throughout each day of your tour to stay hydrated.

    Please let your Tour Manager know of any food allergies or dietary needs you may have at the beginning or your tour.

15. Name Badges

    Included in your tour documents bundle is your personalized name tag. We ask that you put this on before your first gathered event and wear it throughout your tour. This helps your fellow travelers get to know you and for your Tour Manager to better identify you in large groups.

16. Shopping

    One of the best parts of traveling is coming back home with souvenirs that really reflect the place you've just been. New England is a charming region that offers you many shopping opportunities and a variety of items.

    Popular items to purchase while in New England include nautical art and artifacts and lighthouse memorabilia.

    In Nantucket, look for lightship baskets, a type of basket made from rattan and wood that originated on Nantucket Island Lightships in the 19th century.

    In Cape Cod look for jewelry including the very popular Cape Cod bracelet, salt water taffy, cranberry products, The Black Dog Restaurant clothing, and local crafts.

17. Smoking Restrictions

    Our tours are non-smoking throughout. If you require a smoking room, please let your Client Care agent know when you book your tour. Please note we cannot guarantee your request as many hotels prohibit smoking in rooms and on property.

    Please be mindful of other locations where smoking is not allowed. These include the motor coach, at dining venues, and any other restricted areas on tour. Guests are responsible for any fines they incur for failing to comply with smoking regulations.

18. Time Zone

    All cities on this tour are on Eastern Standard Time and Eastern Daylight Time.

19. Tour Manager

    Peace of mind for our guests is our number one priority. When you're on tour with us, your only thoughts should be to immerse yourself in creating lifelong memories. Your Tour Manager is a destination expert on the people, places, history, and culture and ensures that you will have the best experience with us. Please utilize your Tour Manager's expertise for any concerns or questions you may have while on tour.

20. Tour Package - Air & Land Incl

    If you have chosen our air-inclusive tour package, you have opted that we take care of all your air travels from your home to the destination and back. This also includes any inter-flights from city to city within the tour package if applicable. We ask that you keep the following in mind:

    1) In order to comply with Homeland Security's "Secure Flight" mandate, you must provide full name (including middle name or middle initial, if applicable), as it appears on your valid, non-expired, government issued photo ID that you will show at the airport. The name on your airline ticket must be an exact match to this ID, or you may be prevented from boarding the aircraft.

    2) If you are a member of a participating frequent flyer program, make sure to provide the number when you book your trip and retain the copy of your ticket and boarding pass so you will receive proper credit for your mileage. Please note that some air tickets are not eligible for mileage accrual.

    3) Whenever possible, we will add charges for air departure taxes to your invoice. Some international arrival and departure fees are not included in your air ticket and must be paid by you during the tour in the local currency.

21. Tour Package - Land Only

    If you chose to purchase a land-only tour package, you have opted to purchase your own airline tickets to and from home and, if applicable to your tour package, flights from city to city (inter-flights). In this case, we ask that you keep a few important factors in mind when booking your round-trip flights:

    1) Please make sure your round-trip flights work with your tour itinerary. There may be scheduled activities on these days.

    2) You must provide us with your flight schedules for the entire tour upon final payment. This ensures that we can arrange any other services you may have purchased from us, including hotel transfers, and that your Tour Manager will know when to expect your arrival. This also allows us to maintain contact with you in case of an emergency.

22. Transfers

    We offer full-service transfers from start to finish. So when you arrive at the airport of your destination, arrangements will have been made to transfer you to your first hotel on the tour.

    If you purchased our air-inclusive tour package, you will enjoy this service free of charge.

    If you purchased your air ticket on your own (our land-only tour package), you may purchase a round-trip transfer for a fee.

    Meeting locations and times will be set up to accommodate your transfer arrival and departure schedules, which will be provided to you in your documents packet. If you decide to arrange your own transportation to the hotel, please make sure to check in with your Tour Manager once you arrive.

23. Transportation

    Your comfort is important to us. With that in mind, we charter coaches that are temperature controlled and have toilet facilities on board. However, in certain countries, coaches with toilet facilities may not be available or they are for emergency use only. If this is the case, please be assured that frequent stops will be made along the touring route for your comfort and convenience.

    Change your seat, change your view! At least once a day, the Tour Manager will ask all guests to change seats. This ensures that every guest has an opportunity to enjoy a variety of views as they travel and a chance to get to know each other better. In fairness to all, there will be no exceptions to this policy.