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The amount of money you will need while on tour is a personal matter. We remind
you that there are many ways to obtain money and purchase items and services
while overseas, including ATM/Money Machines, banks, credit cards, currency
exchange bureaus, or travellers' checks. It is up to you to choose the method
that will best suit your needs. We do advise, however, that it is best to be
prepared for all eventualities.
We also strongly suggest you bring smaller United States currency for change -
$1, $5, and $10 bills. These denominations are difficult to obtain overseas and
can be used for gratuities, purchases from street vendors, etc.
The following topics describe helpful information about money:
ATM/Money Machines [top]
Withdrawing cash at ATM/Money Machines is a simple, economical way to obtain
local currencies when travelling abroad. ATMs dispense cash in the currency of
the country you are in and debit the withdrawal (and possibly a service fee)
from your account in United States dollars at a favorable exchange rate. Your
bank may charge an international transaction fee.
There are several ATM networks that allow you to access cash worldwide. The
largest are Cirrus®, (including MasterCard® and Maestro®) and Visa® - all of
which feature easy-to-read instructions in both the local language and English.
The symbols on the back of your bank card indicate the networks where your card
can be used. While travelling, simply look for ATMs displaying the symbols of
your network. Please note that most international ATMs use four-digit numeric
PINs. If your PIN is longer than four digits, you should contact your financial
institution for a new PIN number. Also, if your PIN is alphabetic, translate
the letters into numbers before leaving the country.
Banks and Exchange Bureaus [top]
Your currency can be exchanged at most banks and currency exchange bureaus in
the cities on your tour. Please check with your Program Manager for local
business hours.
Keep receipts as proof of exchange.
Gratuities [top]
We realize that tipping can be confusing on a group tour, so we've included the
following recommended guideline for gratuities:
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Included Meals: Gratuities are included
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Outside Dining: Varies according to local customs; your Program Manager will
advise
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Local Guides/Drivers: $2.00 per person per day for each
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Vantage Program Manager: $3.00 - $5.00 per person per day (on Vantage European
River Cruises)
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Vantage Program Manager: $5.00 - $8.00 per person per day (on Escorted Land
Tours, Small Ship Cruises, and Ocean Cruises)
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Porterage: Included except in Customs areas
Incidentals [top]
Prior to your departure from each hotel, you must personally check out and pay
for all incidental charges such as room service, telephone, laundry, minibar,
and purchases charged to your room. We recommend that you obtain a receipt for
any incidentals you charge to your hotel room.
Not Included [top]
Cost of passport and visa (if applicable); excess baggage charges as imposed by
the airlines; meals and beverages other than those specified; gratuities to
drivers, guides, and Program Managers; hotel charges for items of a personal
nature, e.g. laundry, room service, telephone, etc.; and any other items not
specifically listed in the included features of your program. Port taxes, air
taxes, fuel surcharges, and government fees are not included and will be
itemized on your invoice.
Personal Checks [top]
Personal checks are generally NOT accepted overseas except as payment for a
Vantage Optional Tour. Some American Express and Citibank Exchange Bureaus may
accept personal checks for their cardholders.
Taxes [top]
All hotel taxes and hotel service charges are included in the tour price.
Travellers' Checks [top]
You may find travellers' checks are not accepted by vendors or banks ( except, perhaps, for local currency and with a fee.)
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