Basics & Inclusions
What’s included?
Our Journeys include, return economy airfare from Toronto, home pick-up service (for guests living 200km from Toronto airport), accommodation, most meals, the service of a Journey Manager from the moment you arrive at the airport, entrance fees for visits included in our itineraries, gratuities, visas and much more. Please refer to the detailed itinerary for all journey specific inclusions.
Are drinks included?
Water and tea/coffee are typically what is included at all meals, along with a welcome and farewell drink. In many cases a glass of wine or beer is included at dinners, but it does vary from Journey to Journey and will be outlined in the detailed itinerary.
Do you offer French tours?
Not at this time. Our tours are conducted in English.
Can you plan a custom Journey?
We specialize in expertly curated small-group programs rather than fully custom trips.
General
Do you offer French tours?
All of our Journeys are only English speaking. Our sister brand Incursion Voyages offers escorted francophone group tours.
Can you plan a custom Journey?
We specialize in small-group departures rather than fully custom trips.
Flights
Is airfare included?
Yes, economy-class group airfare from Toronto Pearson (YYZ) is included in the cost of your Journey.
Where can I fly from?
While your Journey fare includes economy flights from Toronto, we can assist you if you need to fly from a different city.
Can I opt out of group flights?
Of course—if you would like to book your own flights and travel on the schedule you prefer: you will receive a credit for opting out of our group flights, as well as a credit for our home pick up service. Once at destination you will be responsible to make your own way to the hotel to meet the group. At the end of your Journey, you will be responsible to make your way to the airport for the return flights.
Can I upgrade my flights or use points?
Yes, we will provide you with a credit for opting out of the included economy flights and we can arrange upgrades, or you can arrange your own.
Can I use my airline or credit card points?
Yes, we will provide you with a credit for opting out of the included economy flights and you can use your points with your loyalty program or credit card.
Can I select seats in advance?
On our included group flights, seat selection is often not available. If seating is important to you, we would recommend opting out of the group flights and booking an individual ticket where you can manage your seating.
Home pick-up: I’m outside your radius—what are my options?
If you live more than 200km from an eligible departure city, than you have two options: 1) an overnight at the Hilton Toronto Airport or 2) a $75 per-person home pick-up credit in lieu of the included home pick-up so that you may arrange your own home pick-up.
Can I request Special Meals for the Flights
Yes, airlines offer several special types of meals, such as Gluten Friendly, Vegetarian/Vegan and Diabetic. While we are do our best to request these meals on your behalf, we cannot guarantee that your preferred meal preference will be provided by the airline.
Accomodation
What kind of accommodations do you use?
Well-located, premium hotels chosen for comfort and easy days. Some Journeys include a special traditional stay (like a ryokan in Japan) when it adds something lovely to the experience.
Can I make special room requests?
Absolutely—tell us what would make you comfortable (bed type, quieter room, near the lift). We’ll advocate with our partners; while not every request can be guaranteed, we’ll try our very best.
Health
What level of mobility is required?
All our journeys are intended for active seniors and to enjoy them fully, a certain fitness level is required. As a general guideline, we want to make sure that you’re comfortable:
– Keeping a good pace actively walking up to 3 hours per day (regular breaks are scheduled)
– Going up and down stairs independently (sometimes without handrails)
– Walking on slick or uneven surfaces (eg. wet cobblestone)
– Carrying your own luggage through the airport
How much walking is involved?
Most excursions will be on foot or a combination of coach and walking, as that is the best way to explore any city. You will need to embark and disembark on your own. Many of the boats we use, do not have elevators are you will have to be able to go up and down several flights of stairs.
Ramps can be a little uneven depending on the dock; we’ll be there with clear instructions and time to move comfortably.
What if my Journey includes a ship or riverboat?
Most excursions will be on foot or a combination of coach and walking, as that is the best way to explore any city. You will need to embark and disembark on your own. Many of the boats we use, do not have elevators are you will have to be able to go up and down several flights of stairs. Ramps can be a little uneven depending on the dock; we’ll be there with clear instructions and time to move comfortably.
Allergies or food intolerances—can you accommodate them?
Please share any allergy or intolerance at the time of reservation, so that we may communicate them to our hotels and restaurants. Because kitchens vary, complete avoidance of cross-contamination cannot be guaranteed. Therefore, please do bring any necessary medications, and we’ll help you ask the right questions on the day.
Can I travel with a CPAP machine?
Yes, let us know at the time of reservation so that we may make a note on your file. Please pack distilled water with you for the first few days and once in destination your Journey Manager can assist in locating more for the remainder of your journey.
On-Tour Experience
How many people are on a Journey?
Our land journeys will have a maximum of 20 guests. Journeys that include a cruise portion will have a maximum of 40 guests.
May I skip an excursion?
Yes—your time is yours. On days where we change cities, the group must relocate together. If you skip an activity, you’re welcome to rejoin the group later, however any extra transport would be at your expense.
Insurance & Policies
Is travel insurance included?
Not included, but we strongly recommend it. We can provide a Manulife quote or work with your preferred provider. Some benefits are only available when purchased at time of deposit—we’ll remind you so you don’t miss a window.
What is your cancellation policy?
Per guest, per booking:
Before the final payment date: deposit is forfeited
From final payment to 101 days prior: 50% of the fare
100–75 days prior: 75% of the fare
75 days or less: 100% of the fare (no refund)
Reservations & Payments
Are solo travelers welcome? What is the single supplement?
Very welcome, however we have a limited amount of single rooms, so reserve early!
Many of our guests travel solo. A single supplement applies and varies by Journey, and you can consult either the Detailed Itinerary for your Journey or your Travel Sales Consultant for the exact amount.
Can I extend my Journey (different return date or route)?
Absolutely! You are welcome to take our air credit, and we can assist you with flights or you can arrange on your own. If you require an extra night or 2 at one of our partner hotels, we can assist with those arrangements as well. Any other custom travel arrangements will be on your own to reserve and manage.
What is the payment schedule?
A non-refundable deposit of $1,000–$2,000 per person at time of reservation is required depending on the Journey. Final payment is due 120 days before your Journeys’ departure date. Reservations made less than 120 days before departure require full payment at the time of reservation. We will send clear reminders leading up to any required payments.
