SPENDING MONEY
When it comes to spending money on the trip, every traveller is a little different. You know your spending habits better than we do, so please budget an appropriate amount for things like optional meals, drinks, shopping, optional activities, and laundry. Make sure you have read the itinerary and inclusions thoroughly so you know what is included in the trip price and what you may need to pay for while travelling.
The most convenient way to access money is via ATMs, which are plentiful throughout North America. Check with your bank for information on their international fees. Most optional activities can be paid for with credit card.
TIPPING
Tipping is part of the culture in North America – while it may not be customary in your home country, it is an entrenched feature of many industries including the tourism industry, in North America.
YOUR LEADER
You may consider tipping your leader for outstanding service throughout your trip. The amount is entirely a personal preference; however, as a guideline US$10-20 per person per day can be used. Of course you are free to tip more or less as you see fit, depending on your perception of service quality and the length and involvement of your leader on your trip. Tipping is always appreciated.
LOCAL GUIDES
During your trip you may have a local expert guide for an included activity. As a guideline we suggest $5-$10 per person per local expert as a tip.
TIPPING WHILE OUT AND ABOUT
Restaurants: We suggest 18% to 22% of your bill.
Bars: We suggest US$1 per drink.
A charge that isn’t normally listed in North American menus or pricing are the state and federal taxes. Keep this in mind when your bill comes out slightly higher than the original price listed.
CONTINGENCY FUNDS
We try to plan for every eventuality, but there are still some things beyond our control. We reserve the right to change an itinerary after departure due to local circumstances or a Force Majeure Event. In such emergency circumstances, the additional cost of any necessary itinerary alterations will be covered by you. Please note we are not responsible for any incidental expenses that may be incurred as a result of the change of itineraries including but not limited to visas, vaccinations or non-refundable flights. Make sure you have access to an extra US$500 for emergencies (e.g. severe weather, natural disasters, civil unrest) or other events that result in unavoidable changes to the itinerary (e.g. transport strikes or cancellations, airport closures). Sometimes these things necessitate last-minute changes to enable our trips to continue to run, and as a result, there may be some extra costs involved. The recommended amount is listed in USD for the relatability of universal travellers, however, local currency may be needed once in the country to cover these costs.
