DO I NEED TO KNOW THE LOCAL LANGUAGE??
No, your Guide/Escort (who is with you throughout) is multilingual. If you have any questions – speak with them and they will be happy to help in every way they can!

HOW ARE THINGS WEIGHED / MEASURED?
The metric system is used exclusively throughout Europe. A kilometer is a bit over 1/2 mile (.62 miles). A kilogram equals 2.2 pounds.

HOW CAN I PREPARE FOR MY PILGRIMAGE

• Prepare Physically: If you are not accustomed to physical activity, begin walking 1-2 times a day. We recommend that pilgrims be able to walk up to 3-5 miles easily.
• Prepare Spiritually: Attend daily Mass if possible, or spend quiet time in Adoration. You can also begin (or continue) to pray the Rosary daily.

WILL THERE BE BATHROOM BREAKS? (also known as WC’s)
Yes! In addition to restrooms being readily available at many sites, stops have been planned out during each day, for the group. If an Emergency, just let your guide know, and they will be happy to assist.

ARE THERE BATHROOMS ON THE BUS?
No! This is due to health concerns (due to the chemicals) and local laws.

WILL I NEED A TAXI?
No, all Transportation/Transfers are included for all sites noted on your Pilgrimage. If you would like to revisit a particular site in your free time – speak with your Guide and they will be happy to make those arrangements for you at an additional cost.

LOCAL CUSTOMS / SOCIAL CONVENTIONS
A different way of life in foreign countries may take you by surprise, but if you travel with an open mind and respect local customs, you should find it easy to adapt to and enjoy your new surroundings. Standards of living may not be quite what you are used to, but there are compensations – a closer sense of reality and an authentic feeling of locale. Due to cultural differences, you may not be greeted quite as cheerfully as back home; smiling is generally reserved for intimate friends. Be especially wary of people presenting themselves as “instant friends” and never accept food or drink from strangers.

CAN I DRINK THE LOCAL TAP WATER?
Generally, most local tap water will not hurt you, however, due to differences in mineral and micro-biotic levels, we recommend that you avoid consuming local tap water, as it may upset your stomach.

TIP:
Bottled water is available on your Tour Bus throughout for purchase, and Bottled water is included with Meals as part of the package.

PROBLEMS VS COMPLAINTS DURING TRIP
If you have any problems, concerns, or complaints during your trip, please communicate DIRECTLY and IMMEDIATELY with your Tour Escort. They are at your disposal to assist with all your needs, and concerns. There is very little that can be done to rectify a concern once you have returned home; however, most of the time your Tour Escort can swiftly address any concerns you may have swiftly. If the Tour Escort does not resolve your concern to your satisfaction, please contact our office.

US PASSPORT HOLDERS – WHEN SHOULD MY PASSPORT BE VALID THROUGH?
Your passport MUST be valid through six (6) months after your scheduled return date to the USA. If you have not yet obtained your Passport or noticed that it expires within six (6) months after your return, contact your local passport office and renew or apply for an expedited Passport.

US PASSPORT HOLDERS – DO I NEED A VISA OR VISA WAIVER TO TRAVEL?
Yes, they are referred to as ETIAS “Information Travel and Authorization Systems” Pilgrims traveling to Europe on/after May 1st, 2025, will need to purchase an EITAS Tours to the Middle East (as of August 1st, 2024) will need to purchase an ETA-IL Tours to Mexico do NOT require a Visa.

US PASSPORT HOLDERS – HOW DO I PURCHASE A VISA?
Instructions will be provided in your Final Confirmation (30 days prior to departure) These Visa’s can only be purchased within the week of departure (no earlier).Details regarding the EITAS can be found here: www.206tours.com/terms/
*Scroll down to “Passport, Visas, Visa Waivers, and Documents” for further info. Details on purchasing are not finalized at this time but will be noted in your Final Confirmations.

NON-US PASSPORT HOLDERS – WHEN SHOULD MY PASSPORT BE VALID THROUGH?
Pilgrims must consult with their local Embassy and Governments to ensure their Passport is valid to visit each of the countries included in their Pilgrimage.

NON-US PASSORT HOLDERS – DO I NEED A VISA?
Pilgrims must consult with their local Embassy and Governments to confirm if a Visa required to visit each of the countries included in their Pilgrimage. If a Visa is required, it is the responsibility of the pilgrim to fill out all of the necessary paperwork in order to obtain the Visa in a timely fashion. 206 Tours does NOT assist in any way with obtaining Visa’s.

CAN 206 TOURS ASSIST WITH MY VISA?
No, 206 Tours cannot assist in any capacity regarding obtaining a Visa. Once you are Paid in Full – we can provide a copy of your Invoice reflecting the Tour, Dates of Travel, Website of Tour, and that your trip is Paid in Full – as proof you are registered.

WHAT ARE SKY MILES PROGRAMS?
Airlines offer Sky Miles Programs – which are optional – for you to register and collect miles/points from flights you travel on.

HOW CAN I ADD THEM TO MY ORDER?
If you have Sky Miles, you can select the Airline and enter your Number on Page 3 of the Registration Process. If you are already registered, you can log-in to your Account and add them.

WHAT IS TSA PRECHECK AND GLOBAL ENTRY?
These TSA Programs are expedited security screening so that you can get to your gate quicker. Only low-risk flyers can qualify for this, and the process is rigorous. Both require forms to be filled out, an interview, cost for membership, and the process of having your picture taken and fingerprints recorded. Details are noted in the link below.

WHAT IF I HAVE TSA PRECHECK OR GLOBAL ENTRY?
If you have TSA Pre-Check and Global Entry (both Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Trusted Traveler Programs) please enter your Member Numbers on Page 3 of the Registration Process under “KTN Number” (which stands for Known Traveler Number). If you are already registered, you can log-in to your Account and add them.

For details, visit: https://www.cbp.gov/travel/trusted-traveler-programs/global-entry

Suggestion:
Download the Mobile Passport App, visit: https://airsidemobile.com/mobile-passport/
Officially authorized by US Customs and Border Protection.

With this App, you can see:
– How busy the airport will be on your specific day and time of travel.
– The delay information and current weather conditions at your airport nationwide.
– List of items you can bring with you through the checkpoint and onto the airplane.
– TSA Guide on how to prepare for, and get through, the security checkpoints.
– Discover which airports and airlines support TSA Pre✓®, and learn how to sign-up.
– Request live assistance from TSA through the AskTSA social media integration.

WHO IS MY EMERGENCY CONTACTS FOR THE PILGRIMAGE?
Located in your Final Confirmations is the contact for your Escort/Guide, and the
Emergency Team on the ground in the country you are traveling.

WHAT DO I DO WHEN AN EMERGENCY ARISES?
Contact your Escort immediately – they are there to assist with any issue that arises.
*Your Escorts are there to assist you with any question or concern – not just emergency situations.

HEALTH PRECAUTIONS
No inoculations are necessary when traveling to Europe from the U.S.A. You may consult with your healthcare provider before traveling.

For the latest overseas travel health information contact: The Center for Disease Control: call 1-877-394-8747 or visit www.cdc.gov

For medical information contact: The U.S. Public Health service: call 1-301-443-2403

WHEN DO I RECEIVE MY AIRLINE E-TICKETS?
What we send you, when we send it to you, how to access it can be found here: https://www.206tours.com/cms/travelpackage/

WHERE ARE MY AIRLINE E-TICKETS?
Located in your Email and Account – is your E-Ticket. It informs you of your Flight Times, Airline, Flight Information, and Routing. Print this E-Ticket and/or save on your Phone to check-in. If any issues, present to the Agent.

HOW ARE MY FLIGHTS ARRANGED?
Your airline reservations are booked in accordance with TSA Rules, Regulations and Routings. We did our utmost to provide you with the most convenient flight schedule available to us at the time you made your reservation. All participants will be traveling independently on all flights.

WHAT IF MY PLANE RESERVATION SAYS ONE AIRLINE BUT THE PLANE READS ANOTHER?
Many airlines are in special agreements allowing them to share aircraft, ensuring the best routings for their passengers. While your ticket may show that you are flying withone carrier (i.e. United), you may find that  you are seated in a plane belonging to another carrier (i.e. Lufthansa). Carefully review your airline itinerary to determine which airline is operating your departure flight to ensure check in for your flight at the correct carrier. When your flight is operated by another carrier your itinerary will state “Flight Operated by (name Airline)”.

WHEN SHOULD I ARRIVE AT THE AIRPORT?
Online Check-In is available 24 Hours prior to departure on the website of your Airline. Otherwise, you can check-in at the Airport utilizing the Kiosk’s (Airline Staff is present to assist with any questions).

Factoring in Luggage Check and Security – we recommend you arrive as follows:

Domestic Flights: two (2) hours prior to departure
*If connecting within the US, before departing on your transatlantic flight to Europe.

International Flights: three (3) hours prior to departure
*If your flight is a direct transatlantic flight to Europe.

You must personally check in your own luggage at the airline counter. Advise the check-in agent of your Final Destination to ensure that your luggage will be checked all the way through. This will eliminate you having to claim your luggage and prevent you from having to re-check your luggage again during flight connection(s).

WHO DECIDES THE CONNECTION TIME AT AIRPORTS?
The Airlines determine the minimum connection time required to transfer from one gate to another. We are subject to the availability of the airline’s carrier we work with and must ensure that all participants have reservations to arrive / depart at similar times for the group transfers to/from the airport.

WHAT IS THE PROCEDURE WHEN I ARRIVE AT MY FINAL AIRPORT?
When you exit the plane, you will look for the signs to Passport Control, and then proceed to Baggage Claim to pick up your luggage. Exit the Baggage Claim area into the Arrival’s Hall, you will be greeted by a 206 Tours Representative holding a 206 Tours Sign. Remember to look for the “206 Tours” sign!

TIP:
Make sure to wear your 206 Tours Lanyard and Nametag, as well as your 206 Tours Bag.
Your Guide has a copy of your flight times – so they will be looking for you as well. Wearing these will make it easier for them to s pot you as well.

WHAT IF I LOSE MY LUGGAGE?
Proceed to the Baggage Office in the Airport Terminal to complete a “Missing Luggage Form”, which will include a description of your luggage. Save all paperwork and tracking information given to you by the Airlines. Upon locating your baggage, the airlines will bring your luggage to your Hotel. It is important that you provide them with the correct address and dates that you will be at your Hotel, as well as the phone number of your Guide (noted in your Final Confirmations.)

WHAT IF MY FLIGHT IS DELAYED OR CANCELLED?
Work DIRECTLY with the Airlines at the airport to arrange for alternate flights or protection. Once your tickets have been issued, or you have checked-in for your flights, 206 Tours can no longer make any changes to your flight itinerary. This can ONLY be done by the airline. Be persistent with the agent, however, keep in mind that the situation is not the airline agent’s fault. Try your best to remain courteous to them, as you may find that you receive more assistance this way. The airlines are not required to offer reimbursement for personal expense or overnights when delays/cancellations occur due to weather. If you find that you have no luck with the airline personnel, please contact our emergency number and we shall do all in our power to assist you.

TIP:
Once the Airlines have rebooked you, Text/Call your Guide, using the number in your Final Confirmations,
so that they can be made aware of your NEW arrival time. If it is much later, they can make the necessary arrangements for airport transfer.

WHAT IF I MISS THE GROUP TRANSFER UPON ARRIVAL?
If your plane arrives late, or you are re-routed, you will most likely miss your group transfer which is included in your package. Please contact your Guide using the phone number noted in your Final Confirmations.

TIP:
If you purchased “Travel Insurance”, be sure to hold on to any receipts to make a Claim later.

WHAT IF I WANT TO MAKE A LAST-MINUTE CHANGE TO MY TICKET?
If you would like to change your airline ticket for any reason once the ticket has been issued and/or you have departed, you MUST work DIRECTLY with the airlines. You will incur additional costs (minimum of $500 per person) for such changes.

HOW MUCH LUGGAGE CAN I BRING?
If Airfare is purchased through 206 Tours – your Pilgrimage includes one (1) piece of Checked Luggage, and one (1) Carry-On Luggage.

If Business Class Airfare is purchased through 206 Tours – your Pilgrimage includes two (2) pieces of Checked Luggage, and one (1) Carry-On Luggage.

WHAT IS “CHECKED LUGGAGE”?
This is the luggage that you pack all your clothes and belongings in. When you arrive at the airport, this is what you check-in and it is stored underneath the plane. If you need to purchase a NEW bag, most are designed with these measurements in mind. Your focus should be on the weight limit – 50 lbs.

TIP:
If you cannot pick it up, it is too heavy!

WHAT IS “CARRY-ON LUGGAGE”?
The Carry-On bag lets you access your belongings in-flight and must be able to fit in an overhead bin. Airlines are strict about the size of carry-on luggage, and if overweight, can be subject to unpleasant fees.

TIP:
For this, we recommend you utilize your 206 Tours Backpack, which meets the measurements.
It will also make it easier for Guides/Drivers to spot you in the Arrival’s Hall.

SHOULD I HAVE LUGGAGE LOCKS?
The more secure your personal items are, the better! TSA suggests you lock your luggage before you embark, and when you are flying home. TSA screens all checked, and carry-on, baggage, before it is permitted to be brought onboard. You can purchase regular locks for your bags, however, if they are “screened”, those locks can be cut. There are TSA Recognized Locks – which allow TSA Officials to use tools for opening and re-locking your baggage.

LUGGAGE ALLOWANCES:

Size for Checked Bags: Length + Width + Height = 158cm./62in.
Economy Class: One (1) Checked Bag at 23kg. / 50lbs.
Business Class: Two (2) Checked Bags at 32kg. / 70lbs. each

Size for Carry-on Bags: Length + Width + Height: 106cm./42in.
Weight: 1 piece at 8 kg./17 lbs.

WHAT IS A “PERSONAL ITEM”?
In addition to your Carry-On Bag, you are permitted one (1) Personal Item. This can be in the form of an i-Pad, a Book etc.

CAR SEATS AND STROLLERS?
Car Seats and Strollers are common items for families traveling with young children, and airlines are generally accommodating with accepting them at no additional fee. However, this is not always the case and some airlines do have restrictions so call ahead and ask. Once at the airport strollers can be either checked in or when you check in, or checked in at the gate. Given the size, they are rarely allowed as carry-on luggage. Car Seats can often be carried on board, but they do need to be FAA approved. If you don’t want to carry on the Car Seat, it is recommended to store it in a duffel bag, so it doesn’t get dirty.

TIP:
With both Car Seats and Strollers, smaller is always better.

IS THERE WHEELCHAIR ASSISTANCE AT THE AIRPORT?
On Page 3 of the Registration Process, there is a section noted for “Wheelchair Request” at the Airport. There are options ranging from the Check-In Desk to the Terminal or to the Seat. If you selected to have one of these arranged, they have been requested, and there will be a person to meet you at the Check-In desk after you have checked in your Luggage.

WHAT IF I HAVE A CPAP MACHINE?Travelers requiring CPAP machines must contact the Department within the Airlines ahead of time (noted on your E-Ticket/Flight Itinerary enclosed with your Travel Documents.) While they are considered as carry-on items, there are rules about using the machine during the flight.

WHAT IF I HAVE AN OXYGEN TANK?It is important to note that if you plan on traveling with oxygen, you will need to visit your doctor ahead of time to get the necessary paperwork. Your own Oxygen tanks are not allowed as check-in luggage; however, empty FAA approved tanks can be checked. If you need something on board, talk to your doctor about Department of Transportation Approved battery-powered oxygen concentrators which are permitted on flights.

The Euro (EUR) is the currency of Italy.

WHERE CAN I FIND CURRENCY INFO AND CURRENT EXCHANGE RATES?
Visit www.xe.com. for the most current exchange rates. This is the “Pure” exchange rate, meaning bank exchange fees are not included.

TIP:
Check the up-to-date exchange rates before you leave for your pilgrimage and before you exchange currency.

WHERE CAN I EXCHANGE MY MONEY FOR FOREIGN CURRENCY?

• A Currency Exchange. You can find one at most Airports, and along most major boulevards in Europe. There will be a small fee for the exchange.
• Your Bank. To get the best rate, exchange US dollars at your local bank before you leave.
• Withdraw currency during your trip.

A practical, cost-effective, option is to use your ATM card or Debit Card to withdraw local currency while you’re abroad. You can also get cash advances on your credit card at an ATM, but there will be high fees.

TIP:

Utilize your Credit Card, as the exchange rate and fees are comparative to taking out currency.
Almost all shops accept Major Credit Cards. If you need an ATM – your Guides will advise you where they are.

HOW DO I AVOID HAVING MY CREDIT CARD FROM BEING SUSPENDED?
Before you leave, let your local bank and credit card companies know you’ll be traveling abroad. Otherwise, they may block your account due to international transactions.

HOW MUCH MONEY SHOULD I BRING?
This is hard to say, as it varies person to person. Keep in mind of the “Inclusions” on your Pilgrimage – which leaves Snacks and Gift Shopping. We recommend you bring the equivalent of $100 per person in Euro. Keep half on you with the other half in your Checked Bag (if you need it.) You can always use your Credit Card, spend less, or bring money home!

CAN I USE CREDIT CARDS? WILL THERE BE ATMS AVAILABLE?
We highly recommend using your credit card when you travel abroad. Credit cards offer convenience, security (you can cancel them if they are lost), and reasonable exchange rates. Visa and MasterCard are the best options since they can be used in most stores. American Express and Discover are not widely accepted in Europe. ATMs are just about everywhere and are accessible 24 hours a day. They are very similar to ATMs in the United States, and most of them offer English as a language option. Ask your Guide, any time, and they will be happy to point you in the direction of one. (Find out your daily withdrawal limit beforehand.)

WHAT CAN YOU TELL ME ABOUT U.S. CUSTOMS?
US citizens who have been in a foreign country may return to the United States with up to $800 worth of merchandise duty-free. For those who wish to bring home more, a flat rate of 3% duty is levied on the next $1,000 worth of purchases. Please keep the receipts from all your purchases in case they are requested by a customs inspector when you return to the United States. Visit the US Customs and Border Protection website for details: https://www.cbp.gov/travel/us-citizens

WHAT CAN YOU TELL ME ABOUT VAT TAX – VALUE-ADDED TAX (VAT)?
You are charged a Value-Added Tax (VAT) when you purchase goods and services abroad. This is an indirect tax, like US Sales Tax that is applied to the value added at each stage of production (primary, manufacturing, wholesale, and retail). For details, please visit: https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/taxes/vat-value-added-tax

HOW DOES TIPPING WORK?
Tips are an important part of earnings for your Guides and Bus Drivers. While most Tips are included throughout (Restaurants, Local Guides, Porters etc.) – Tips to your Guide and Driver are at your discretion, via the Tip Envelopes with your Travel Documents.

WHEN DO I GIVE THE GUIDE/DRIVER THEIR TIP ENVELOPES?
It is suggested to provide the Tour Escort and the Bus Driver their tip money the day prior to your return. When, is completely up to you – in the morning, after breakfast, before dinner etc.

HOW MUCH SHOULD I GIVE?
Although you should tip according to your discretion and satisfaction, we recommend $10 Per Person / Per Day for the Guide, and $5 Per Person / Per Day for the Bus Driver.

WHAT CURRENCY SHOULD I TIP IN?
Tips in European countries should be in Euros.
Exception: Poland that uses the Polish Zloty.

Although you should tip according to your satisfaction level, the following amounts are recommended. The tip envelopes are included in your final documents package.

Packing can be one of the most challenging parts of preparing for your trip. Deciding what’s a must-bring and what can stay at home, fretting over baggage allowances, remembering security rules about nail clippers, and making it all fit are enough to stress you out. While we can’t tell you how many pairs of socks to pack, we can give you some helpful Tips.

WHAT ITEMS CAN I LEAVE AT HOME?
At no time will you need Formal Attire – so refrain from packing any Fancy Clothes, Suits, Dresses, Dress Shoes, High Heels etc. To avoid loss or theft, aside from the jewelry that you wear every day – we recommend you leave your nice Watches, Necklaces, Money Clips, Cuff Links etc can be left at home.

CLOTHING SHOULD I PACK?
The first step to packing smartly for a trip of any length is to determine what is being done. Take an honest look at the itinerary and season you are traveling to decide what will be needed to be prepared. The days are packed with sightseeing and walking throughout, so comfortable clothing and sneakers are the best. Best intentions aside, you will not have enough time to utilize the Hotel Gym or Pool, so refrain from packing for that and utilize the space better.

CLOTHING:

• Pants/Shorts – Pending Weather/Season you are traveling.
• Long Sleeve Shirts / Sweaters OR Short Sleeve Shirts / Polo Shirts.
• Undershirts for layering as you can expect mornings and evenings to be cold.
• It’s important to have a good Jacket/Raincoat.
• Socks – this is important as you will need to change each day
• Light Undergarments
• Portable Umbrella / Hat – Scarf – Gloves (Winter Seasons)
  *If you forgot something at home, you can always buy it on the Trip. Ask your Guide.

TIP:
Check www.weather.com for where/when you are traveling. You can wear Pants/Shirts/Shorts twice.

BASIC TOILETRIES PACKING LIST:

• Deodorant (travel size)
• Shampoo and Conditioner (travel size) – if you have a preferential brand.
• Toothbrush & Toothpaste (travel size)
• Comb/Brush
• Lotion/Moisturizing cream (travel size)
• Feminine Items
• Handi-wipes: for freshening up during the day
• Travel pack size Kleenex
• Grocery size plastic bags for dirty clothes
• Nail file and/or Nail clippers
• Pen (bring with you on the plane to complete customs forms)
• Travel Toilet Tissue (in case of low supply at rest stops)

*206 Tours uses First Class Hotels – they include all of the necessities you are used to at Home. From the Pillows/Blankets, to the Shampoo/Conditioner/Soap/Hair Dryers in the Bathrooms, and Wi-Fi.

WHAT ELECTRONICS SHOULD I BRING?

• Your Cell Phone and Charger (which includes Alarm Clock App)
• Camera & Charger (Optional – unless using the Camera on your Smart Phone)
• Adapter for Country (Converters only necessary for Hair Straighteners etc.)
• You do NOT need to bring a Hair Dryer – your bathroom has one.

SHOULD I BRING OVER-THE-COUNTER MEDICINE?
If applies to you.

• Dramamine (for motion sickness)
• Aspirin/Advil, etc.
• Band-Aids
• Pepto Bismol (tablets)
• Sominex
• Allergy/Cold Medicine (if necessary)
• ChapStick
• Sunscreen or Sun Tan Lotion

*All of the above can be purchased on your Pilgrimage. Inquire with your Guide or Front Desk, and they will supply you with what you need, or point you in the right direction to buy it.

SHOULD I PACK CLOTHES IN MY CARRY-ON BAG?
Pack at least one change of clothes, socks, and undergarments in your carry-on bag in case your baggage is delayed or lost.

WHAT SHOULD I WEAR ON THE PLANE?
During your flight, wear loose-fitting clothes. Your feet may swell due to altitude, so wear flexible shoes.

For more details about the amount of walking that can be expected, what kind of terrain is in Europe, and answers to questions aboat Walkers / Canes / Scooters etc .. please visit: www.206tours.com/accessibility/europe/

WILL THERE BE TIME TO SHOP?
Yes, time has been set aside during your pilgrimage for shopping! The reason it has been pre-planned is because with so much sightseeing, a pace must be kept in order to see all sites. Ask your Tour Escort what the regional specialty products which the countries/cities in your itinerary are known for. Small, light items that you can easily carry home make splendid and festive gifts. Don’t forget to buy something nice for yourself too.

WHAT IF I AM LOOKING FOR SOMETHING SPECIFIC?Inquire with your Guide/Escort. They are aware of all the shops, and what you may be looking for. If by chance they are not aware of what you are looking for, they will be able to find out for you.

HOW MUCH SHOULD I BRING FOR SHOPPING?It depends on what you are looking to buy, how much, and how big. As you know, there is a big price difference between purchasing a few Postcards and a Rosary OR an Icon. All shops accept major Credit Cards – and the prices are comparative to how much these items are in the US (except many of them can only be purchased at the sites or will hold sentimental value.)

*Note: Shopping at Shrine/Basilica/Churches: Some of these sites have small Gift Shops within them and are run by the Clergy there. All proceeds are donated to the upkeep of the Shrine/Church – but Credit Cards are not accepted. For these reasons, be sure to have cash handy.

WHAT IF I PURCHASE SOMETHING THAT IS – BIG/HEAVY/FRAGILE?If you happen to find something that you really want, or wanted, and it turns out that it is too big – too heavy – costly – or fragile: Arrangements can be made at the Shop or at your Hotel to have them shipped home. Speak with your Guide/Escort, and they will be happy to help!

WHAT SHOULD I AVOID WHEN SHOPPING ABROAD?Whenever traveling abroad, be aware of your personal belongings when shopping in crowded areas. Try not to take out your money/credit cards in public areas, unless at the time of making a purchase. Major Shops: (Ex: Louvre Museum in Paris) Accept all major Credit Cards / Debit Cards / Local Currency.

Street Vendors / Street Shops / Clergy Operated Shops: Cash Only – some may accept major Credit Cards (check with your Guide)

WHAT TYPE OF HOTELS ARE WE STAYING IN?
206 Tours uses First Class Hotels throughout – with all the local amenities you come to expect at home. Hotel rooms may be smaller than you are used to, based on American standards. All rooms are comfortably appointed with a private bathroom. Travelers sharing a room will have two (2) Twin beds in their hotel rooms. Many hotels use key cards to operate the room’s lighting system and/or the elevator. Rooms will have large towels and hand towels. It is not customary for hotels to provide washcloths.

TIP:
Feel free to click on the Hotels listed on the Tour Website or visit their Official Websites for additional information and pictures.

HOW WILL PORTERAGE WORK AT THE HOTELS?
Do not worry about having to carry your luggage to your Rooms, down from your Rooms, or loading them on the Buses! Included in your Pilgrimage is porterage of One (1) piece of luggage handling. The Porters will do their best to bring your luggage to you in a timely fashion. At times there may be a short delay due to the size of the group arriving. To make it easier for porters to identify your luggage, make sure your 206 Tours Luggage Tag is clearly visible. If you prefer to bring your own luggage to the Hotel, please wait near the bus as the driver and porters unload the luggage for you to identify your baggage and bring it with you to your room.

HOW CAN I USE MY SMARTPHONE ON MY PILGRIMAGE?
When you bring your Smartphone, make sure to contact your Service Provider and inform them that you will be traveling overseas. Most providers offer an “International Plan” that you may sign up for. This will allow you to make calls to the United States” while you are out of the country. Passport Plan: AT&T and other Providers offer a Plan known as a “Passport” where you pay a flat fee – Per Day – and allows you to then to use your phone the same as at home. Meaning: No Roaming Fees, No Shutting Off Data etc. You will be able to make/answer calls, and the use will be aligned with the local plan you have at home.

HOW DO I CALL FROM EUROPE TO THE USA?
First: Dial “00” – Then dial the country code (1 for the US and Canada, just like at home) – Then the local area code and telephone number.

HOW DOES SOMEONE CALL ME FROM THE USA TO EUROPE?
First dial “011” – Then the country code of the country you are dialing to – Then followed by the local area code and telephone number.

TIP:
Contact Infor for your Hotel(s) and Tour Escort is listed in your Final Confirmations. Be sure to leave that information with friends/family.

CAN WE BRING LAPTOPS/MACBOOK / I-PADS?
Feel free to bring them with you – as all the Hotels have complimentary Wi-Fi available.

WILL I NEED AN ADAPTER?
Yes, you will need to bring an Adapter to plug into the outlets. The voltage used is 220 volts AC, single phase 50 cycles (the U.S. uses 110/120 volts). The best option is bringing a Universal Travel Adapter with Dual USB Ports (that way, you can charge multiple devices at one time.) Types of Adapters: Packs are sold with all 3-in-1

DO I NEED A CONVERTER?
No, Converters are used to convert the 220 volts to 110 volts. All of your Hotels have
Hair Dryers, so you would only need if you were bringing a Curling Iron/Hair Straightener (which are not necessary on a pilgrimage). If you have a Laptop – All laptops over the last ten (10) years already have a converter built into the chord.

WHY SHOULD I NOT USE THE PHONES IN THE HOTELS?
Hotel Telephones are available and offer convenience, however, they tend to cost substantially more than using your cell phone if you have an international plan.

Click on the subject you are interested in reading further on, and you will be rerouted to that website.

Airline Tracker: www.flightarrivals.com
Calling Codes: www.countrycallingcodes.com/
Currency Converter: www.xe.com
Department of Homeland Security: www.dhs.gov
Embassies: www.usembassy.gov
Emergency/Disaster Information: www.redcross.org/
Flight Delay Information www.flightaware.com/
Flight Tracker: www.flightview.com/
Foreign Language Basics: www.fodors.com/language
Frequent Flyer Programs: www.webflyer.com/
International Health Information: www.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/list
Internet Access/Hotspots: www.skyroam.com/
Language Translation: translate.google.com
Last-Minute Travel Preparation: www.paperplanesblog.com/getting-readyfor-a-trip-last-minute-travel-prep
Physical Disabilities Information: www.travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/before-you-go/travelers-with-special-considerations/traveling-with-disabilties.html
Passports & Visas: www.projectvisa.com/
Physical Disabilities Travel Information: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/before-yougo/travelers-with-special-considerations/traveling-with-disabilties.html
Smart Traveler Enrollment Program: step.state.gov/step
Time Around the World: www.time.gov
Transportation Security Administration: www.tsa.gov
Travel Planning: www.worldtravelguide.net/
Travel Planning (Religious Sites): www.sacred-destinations.com/
Trusted Traveler: www.cbp.gov/travel/trusted-traveler-programs
US Customs: cbp.gov
US State Department Travel Warnings: www.travel.state.gov
Weather Around the World: http://www.weather.com