|
|
|
|
Home > Eastern Europe and Russia
The Bohemian
This tour has been expertly planned to run at a leisurely pace, with two-night stays in the three main cities: Vienna, Budapest and Prague. There are no long travelling days on this compact tour; a perfect introduction to Central and Eastern Europe.
| Summary |
Highlights |
Itinerary |
Prices & Dates |
Savings & Discounts |
Optionals |
Conditions |
Included Premium Highlights
- In Vienna enjoy a guided visit to the magnificent Schonbrunn Palace and gardens
- Explore the medieval streets of Cesky Krumlov and see the castle overlooking the town
- Explore the maze of lanes, churches and colourful houses in the riverside village of Szentendre
Included Personal Insights
- An entree to the history and significance of Viennese cafe culture
Included Additional Excursions & Sights
- See the Hofburg, Opera House, Parliament building and St Charles' Church in Vienna
- Visit Prague's Old Town Square and see the Astronomical Clock
- Admire the stained glass windows of St Vitus Cathedral in Prague Castle
- See Brno's formidable Spilberk fortress and baroque Cathedral of Sts Peter and Paul
- Views from Bratislava Castle and stroll the old town to the medieval Town Hall
- Visit the splendid Coronation Cathedral in Esztergom
- Visit the Citadel in Visegrád for stunning views over the Danube Bend
- Drive along the Danube to see the ruins of the Roman settlement of Aquincum
- Visit Matthias Church in Buda's old Castle District and visit to Heroes' Square in Pest
- Enjoy panoramic views over Budapest from Gellert Hill and from the Fisherman's Bastion
Included First Class Services
- Escorted by a professional Tour Director
- Luxury air-conditioned 40 seat coach with onboard toilet
- Insight Hotels include all service charges, taxes and porterage
- Insight Traveller document wallet, map book journal and information pack
- Airport Shuttle arrival and departure transfers at scheduled times on Day 1 and Day 9
Included Quality Dining
- Highlight Dinner with gypsy music in Budapest (HD)
- 8 full breakfasts (BB) and 2 three-course table d'hote Dinners or buffets plus tea or coffee (D)
|
Day 1 - VIENNA AT LEISURE
|
|
Welcome to Vienna! On arrival at Vienna Airport, your airport shuttle service leaves for the tour hotel at 09:00, 12:00 & 15:00. Vienna is famous for its delicious coffees and pastries so, after checking in, why not stroll to a local cafe? Or take a walk through the Stadtpark to see the statue of Strauss. Later, meet your Tour Director and fellow guests for a Welcome Drink.
Hotel: Hilton Vienna
|
|
Day 2 - VIENNA SIGHTSEEING
|
|
A sightseeing highlight this morning is a guided visit to the magnificent Schonbrunn Palace and gardens. See also St Charles' Church and the baroque architecture of the Opera House, the magnificent Hofburg Imperial Residence and Parliament building. Cafes are an institution in Vienna; your guide points out some of the most famous and explains the history and important role they play in local culture. The afternoon is free to shop or continue sightseeing. (BB)
|
|
Day 3 - VIENNA - CESKY KRUMLOV - PRAGUE
|
|
North to Cesky Krumlov, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best preserved medieval towns in Europe sitting amidst the Vltava River. Time here to wander through the cobblestone, traffic free streets, past colourful houses that lead up to the finest castle in the land. After some free time to explore, enjoy a drive through the Bohemian countryside to 'Golden' Prague - named for its gleaming gilded spires, for three leisurely nights in the historic city centre.
Hotel: Palace (BB,D)
|
|
Day 4 - PRAGUE SIGHTSEEING
|
|
Prague is one of the most fashionable, beautiful and culturally exciting cities in Europe, featuring a unique blend of Gothic, Renaissance and baroque architecture. Join your expert local guide for a sightseeing tour which begins with the 1,000-year-old Hradcany Castle and majestic St Vitus' Cathedral. Descend to the Old Town, where the tour concludes at the fascinating Astronomical Clock in the city square. Later, there is time to shop for fine Bohemian crystal, Carlsbad porcelain or superb costume jewellery; treasures for which the Czech Republic is world-famous. (BB)
|
|
Day 5 - PRAGUE AT LEISURE
|
|
A full day at leisure to explore one of Europe's most enchanting cities. You may like to visit the Jewish quarter where the world's oldest synagogue still operates, or enjoy a pleasant walk across Charles Bridge to the cobbled streets of Mala Strana the "Lesser Town". Certainly take some time to admire the fairytale architecture of this city that was once the medieval seat of the Holy Roman Empire and is now a regular film location for movies such as Amadeus and The Bourne Identity. (BB)
|
|
Day 6 - PRAGUE - BRNO - BRATISLAVA
|
|
Drive through the wine-producing area of South Moravia to the political and cultural hub of the region, Brno. During an orientation tour, see the unusual baroque Cathedral of St Peter and St Paul, as well as the grim Spilberk Fortress, used as a jail by the Nazis during World War Two. After crossing the Slovakian border, drive to the capital of Bratislava. Upon arrival, view the presidential palace before taking a leisurely walk through the Old Town, stopping at the medieval Town Hall. Also ascend to the imposing 9th century castle, perched high above the Danube, for panoramic views over three countries.
Hotel: Sheraton. (BB,D)
|
|
Day 7 - BRATISLAVA - ESZTERGOM - SZENTENDRE - BUDAPEST
|
|
Skirt the foothills of the Little Carpathian Mountains before crossing the Danube at Komarom to enter Hungary. Stop a while in Esztergom, former capital of Hungary, for a visit to the splendid cathedral. Then continue to Visegrád, where the castle walls and Solomon's Tower are all that remain of the town's regal splendour. Walk up to the Citadel for breath-taking views across the Danube Bend. A fascinating drive along the Danube leads you to the picturesque riverside village of Szentendre. This community has long been the haunt of artists, enchanted by its brightly coloured houses and quaint churches. Passing the remains of the Roman settlement of Aquincum, you arrive in Budapest, home for the next two nights.
Hotel: Corinthia Grand Royal. (BB)
|
|
Day 8 - BUDAPEST SIGHTSEEING
|
|
Begin your included sightseeing tour with a view across the Danube from the lofty Citadel atop Gellert Hill. Then ascend to the heart of Buda's Castle District to visit Matthias Church, with its incredible interior decoration, and take in the vista of the beautiful Parliament building from the Fisherman's Bastion. Cross the Danube to the Pest district to visit Heroes' Square and Andrassy Boulevard. Budapest is a magnificent city exuding a cultural sophistication that entices and enchants, so the afternoon is set aside for you to explore at your own pace. Shop for bargains in fine porcelain and colourful embroideries, rejuvenate in the famed spa baths, or take an optional excursion to explore the 'Secret Treasures of Budapest'. The choice is yours. As night falls, join your new found friends for a farewell Highlight Dinner with traditional Gypsy entertainment. (BB,HD)
|
|
Day 9 - BUDAPEST
|
|
Your tour comes to an end after breakfast. Departure transfers arrive at Budapest Airport at 08:00 & 11:00. (BB)
|
Additional Visa Requirements
Visas are required for many East European countries and
can be obtained by your Travel Agent.
2010
FRIENDS & FAMILY DISCOUNTS
SAVE 5% FOR 5-8 PASSENGERS
Why not share your Insight tour experience with your friends and family - and save money! If 5-8 passengers book together we offer a discount of 5%. Further savings are available for 9 or more passengers!
This discount cannot be combined with Frequent Traveller, Young Traveller or Triple Room Discounts. To qualify, the names of all passengers travelling must be advised to Insight at the time of booking. Does not apply to Oberammergau Passion Play Option, additional accommodation, airfares or flight supplements, Select London Week, Select London & Paris, Select London, Paris & Rome, Egypt tours, Israel tours, Jordan tours, Turkey tours and tours with Mediterranean or River cruises.
YOUNG TRAVELLER SAVINGS
5-17 YEAR-OLDS SAVE UP TO 10%
Insight offers you the opportunity of sharing your happy holiday memories with your children or grandchildren.
This discount applies only to tours featuring the "Young Traveller Discount" in the price panel. Check the itinerary pages now to see how much you can SAVE!
Young Travellers must be under the age of 18 years old on the tour departure date and accompanied by an adult (limit of one Young Traveller Discount per room). Children under 5 years old are not accepted on any escorted tour. This discount cannot be combined with our "Friends & Family Discount".
EXTRA TOUR DISCOUNTS
SAVE 5% ON YOUR 2ND TOUR
Book two Insight vacations, and you will receive a reduction of 5% off the cheaper of the two tours. Take three tours and save on two! Ask your Travel Agent for suggestions!
Tours must be booked at the same time to qualify. Does not apply to Oberammergau Passion Play Option, additional accommodation, airfares or flight supplements, the Gems of Britain, Select London Week, Select London & Paris, Select London, Paris & Rome, all Egypt tours, Israel tours, Jordan tours and tours with Mediterranean or River cruises.
EARLY PAYMENT DISCOUNT
SAVE UP TO 10% ON EARLY BOOKINGS
Insight's most popular tours fill very quickly. Don't be disappointed, book early! You'll be assured of the tours you want, and the earlier you pay, the more you SAVE! Here's how...
Pay in full 12 months prior to your tour departure date and SAVE UP TO 10%
Pay in full 10 months prior to your tour departure date and SAVE UP TO 7.5%
Pay in full 6 months prior to your tour departure date and SAVE UP TO 5%
Tours must be paid in full for this discount to apply. This discount only applies to tours that feature the "Early Payment Discount" in the price panel. Check the itinerary pages now to see how much you can SAVE.
SINGLE TRAVELLER SAVING
SAVE WITH INSIGHT'S ROOM MATE MATCHING
For people travelling alone on an Insight coach tour, we'll match you with someone of the same gender, so you don't have to pay the single room supplement. If we fail to match you, we'll provide a single room at no extra cost.
There is a no-smoking policy in all shared rooms. Does not apply to additional accommodation, Riad upgrade option, airfares or flight supplements, Select London Week, Select London & Paris, Select London, Paris & Rome, Irish Elegance, Egypt tours, Israel tours, Jordan tours and tours with Mediterranean or River cruises. †Single rooms are not available for the Oberammergau Passion Play Option.
FREQUENT TRAVELLER SAVINGS
SAVE 5% OFF YOUR NEXT TOUR
In recognition of our loyal customers, Insight now extends to all travelled guests automatic membership into our Club Bon Voyage, as well as a 5% Discount off the Land portion of their next Insight trip. You will need to travel within the next two years. So act NOW and take full advantage of this great offer.
Enrolment forms and discount vouchers are available from your Tour Director. Insight's Club Bon Voyage and 5% Discount is not available retroactively. Only one voucher is available per person, per tour, per year and only one voucher can be redeemed against each further tour booking. This discount cannot be combined with our "Friends & Family Discount" and "Extra Tour Discount." Does not apply to Oberammergau Passion Play Option, additional accommodation, Select London Week, Select London & Paris and Select London, Paris & Rome.
TRIPLE ROOM DISCOUNT
When three people travel together and share one room, each of the three enjoys a discount off the tour price. See the Triple Room Reductions on the itinerary of your choice.
This discount only applies to tours featuring the "Triple Room Discount" in the price panel. Check the itinerary pages now to see how much you SAVE. Note the third bed on occasions, will be a foldaway. This discount cannot be combined with our "Friends & Family Discount". Triple rooms are not available for the Oberammergau Passion Play Option - see page 19 of our brochure for details.
SEE HOW IT ALL ADDS UP
Insight's tours are already great value but if you want to cut the cost of your European vacation look at all the extra ways we can help you save money!
This simple calculation shows the typically dramatic reductions in tour price that are possible
when you combine one or more tours with the savings on offer on this page!
| European Heritage (15 June) |
$8915 |
| Britain & Ireland Explorer (20 July) |
$2650 |
| 4 x nights in London |
$576 |
Total vacation price |
$12141 |
| Less Extra Tour Discount |
$133 |
| Less 5% Past Guest Frequent Traveller Saving |
$446 |
| Less 12mths Early Payment Discount |
$1145 |
Net vacation price after savings |
$10417 |
| Total savings per person |
$1724 |
| Total savings per couple |
$3448 |
Note: Additional savings apply for families, groups, and single travellers. Conditions as detailed in the savings boxes on this page.
Insight Offers You Peace of Mind
No Currency Surcharges
Currencies continually fluctuate, but with Insight, once you have paid your deposit in FULL, your LAND price is guaranteed and any subsequent LAND cost increases are at OUR expense.
NB. This guarantee excludes government taxes, any imposed fuel surcharges, any airlines surcharges that are part of the LAND packages, cruise company surcharges, and international airline fuel surcharges or fare increases (affecting all international airlines). Surcharges within these exceptions are outside our control and may be applied, regardless of payment status, fully paid or not, at any time during the booking process (or may occasionally be required to be paid while on tour).
Definite Departures
At Insight, we are aware you need to plan your travel arrangements early to take advantage of our early payment discounts, utilise frequent flyer or benefit from airline early booking offers. To assist you when booking ahead, we have designated a great many tours as Definite Departures (DEF); these are guaranteed to operate and we will regularly update our website at www.insightvacations.com with the latest listings for each itinerary.
N.B. Don't worry if the departure of your choice is not yet designated as 'DEF' - we adjust our capacity each year to ensure that the vast majority of tours operate as scheduled and tours will never be rescheduled within 50 days of their departure dates between 01 May & 15 Oct (subject to change if market or other circumstances occur beyond our control).
CANCELLATION FEE WAIVER
US$ 89 per person per tour
In the event that one or more European/Mediterranean countries should not grant you a visa, we have devised a unique scheme to protect you against cancellation fees!
Waiver fee is payable at the time of booking and is non-refundable. It does not apply to cancellations due to changes of mind or for medical reasons. N.B. This scheme is applicable only in the event that you provide documentary proof of having a visa application refused by the embassy. Does not apply to bookings within 14 days prior to departure date, bookings with 5 or more passengers, Oberammergau portion of the tour and all tours that include rail and/or cruises.
Your Insight tour already includes a host of bonus highlights and comprehensive
sightseeing. However, there is an exciting array of optional excursions which will turn
an already amazing experience into the trip of a lifetime! These are entirely optional
and are bookable through your Tour Director/Local Representative at the commencement of
your tour. All prices are quoted in local currency. Payment can be made in cash or by
Visa, Mastercard or American Express.
HOW TO BUDGET FOR YOUR OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS:
The final list of optional excursions to be offered during your tour by your Tour
Director will be based on the descriptions and pricing featured in this leaflet. To
help your pre-tour budgeting we suggest you allow approximately € 45 per person
per day for optional excursions.
VIE14 GALA VIENNESE CONCERT A wonderful concert of Viennese
Classical music including some of the most famous works of Johann Strauss and Wolfgang
Amadeus Mozart, performed by highly acclaimed soloists and dancers. A glass of
champagne is also included during this special evening. € 46
VIE01 IMPERIAL VIENNA A visit to see the fabulous Imperial Treasury
of the Austrian and Holy Roman Empire or the Crypts and Vaults of the Imperial Family
and the world famous Opera House (when accessible) € 36
VIE19 WINE VILLAGE DINNER & SCHNAPS MUSEUM This evening begins
with a visit to the Fischer Family Distillery. Before tasting a variety of their famous
spirits and liqueurs, we will be shown around the historic premises, often used as a
location by local film makers because of its authentic period equipment and old world
charm. A short drive then takes us to the edge of the Vienna Woods for dinner in one of
the traditional ‘Heurigen’ or wine taverns. Here a meal of delicious
Austrian specialities will be served to us while local musicians entertain us with
their ‘Schrammelmusik’. Wine included. € 59
PRG03 ROMANTIC PRAGUE BY NIGHT Enjoy your introduction to Prague,
firstly, an evening river cruise through the old city with drinks included and then we
explore the narrow medieval streets either by miniature motorized train or minibus.
(Occasionally this excursion may be operated without the river cruise at € 33).
€ 45
PRG11 TEREZIN CONCENTRATION CAMP A one hour drive takes us out to
the Prague Hinterland takes to the former Habsburg garrison town Terezin –
Thersienstadt. Once a military fortress to protect the Austrian Empire it was converted
into a Jewish Ghetto and later a concentration Camp used by the Nazis in WWII. We visit
the Ghetto Museum and the fortress as part of our visit. Comfortable walking shoes are
recommended. Please note - This excursion takes approximately five hours. € 42
PRG12 JEWISH PRAGUE This tour shows us an aspect of Prague's history
that has had a significant impact on the city's development since the medieval era. We visit
two of the many synagogues as well as Europe's oldest surviving Jewish cemetery, all in
the heart of the old town. € 31
PRG02 TRADITIONAL DINNER & FOLKLORE ENTERTAINMENT We sample
unique Czech cuisine in a local restaurant including the local beer! During dinner a
local group of musicians will entertain you with song and dance dressed in traditional
costumes. € 51
BUD04 DANUBE CRUISE DINNER & DRINKS The most leisurely way to
discover this fairy-tale city is a guided cruise on the Danube. You will see
Margaret’s Island, the House of Parliament, Castle Hill with the
Fisherman’s Bastion, the Royal Palace, the Citadel and the University while
enjoying a sumptuous buffet and fine Hungarian wine. € 54
BUD06 FOLKLORE SHOW & ILLUMINATIONS A lively performance by the
Hungarian State Folk Ensemble with an included drink during the interval. Afterwards,
enjoy a drive through the illuminated city. € 37
BUD09 SECRET TREASURES OF BUDAPEST The Hungarian Parliament
building is one of the largest and most ornate parliamentary buildings in the world.
After a guided tour of this Gothic-revival marvel we travel to Vajdahunyad Castle which
houses the biggest agricultural museum in Europe. It is here that we enjoy a short
organ concert and the pleasant surroundings before adjourning to the world-famous
Gundel restaurant for the house's speciality - pancakes! € 41
2010
Booking Conditions & Other Important Information
WHAT'S INCLUDED IN THE TOUR PRICE
Inter-city Travel: By private motorcoach, trains and ferries (see itineraries).
Touring: By air-conditioned luxury motorcoaches with on-board washroom and reclining seats for maximum comfort.
- Insight's premium touring coaches are configured with 40 or 41 seats for just 40 guests. However, due to EC regulations on drivers
hours, replacement coaches may be required to be used once per touring week on certain selective itineraries. When this occurs the
replacement coach may have in excess of 40 seats. Also, transfer coaches, sightseeingvehicles, or, in the event of a mechanical breakdown, relief coaches may feature 49 or 53 seats.
- In the Eastern Mediterranean, Iceland and Morocco smaller motorcoaches without toilet facilities may be used.
- If, due to circumstances beyond our control, coaches are used on tours otherwise than advertised, a refund of US$10 per person will be made.
Air Transportation: Internal air flights are included in the land price only when indicated in the 'Included Features' panel on specific itineraries.
- Reservations for our Egyptian airline are given well in advance, however actual flight timings cannot be confirmed prior to departure. Internal flights in Egypt may involve very early or
very late departures andarrivals.
Hotel Accommodation: Prices per person are based on two persons sharing a twin-bedded room with private bath or shower.
- When booking triple rooms please note that the third bed may be a 'roll-away'. Availability of triple rooms is limited.
- Please note that single rooms in Europe will generally be smaller than twin-bedded rooms.
- Please note European hotel standards & services provided may vary from those in other parts of the world and are often in the local style.
- Members of Hotel Frequent Traveller programmes are not entitled to earn points with any of the hotels featured on an Insight Vacations tour.
- Any special room request will be made on a REQUEST basis only. Insight cannot guarantee special room request although every effort will be made to request from respective hotels.
Cruises: Per person prices are based on two persons sharing a cabin with two berths, private shower and toilet. A limited number of single cabins are available on request at extra cost.
- Single Traveller Savings do not apply to tours featuring cruises.
- Triples are not available on Nile cruises or European river cruises.
Tour Director: Escorted tours are conducted in English only by a professional multi-lingual Tour Director.
- In Egypt, Jordan and Greece only tours of 10 people or more will be escorted by an Insight Tour Director.
- Hosted service is provided in London on Select London Week, Select London & Paris and Select London, Paris & Rome.
Meals: Continental or buffet breakfasts in the local style are included as indicated on all tours except in provincial Britain and Scandinavia, where full national style breakfasts are served. Dinners and lunches are included as detailed in itineraries. All meals are included on cruises.
- Any special meal requirements will be made on a REQUEST basis only. Insight can not guarantee special meal requests nor will it assume any responsibility or liability if clients' special meal requests are not fulfilled.
Sightseeing: Excursions and entrance fees to places of interest as detailed on each itinerary with an English-speaking guide where necessary. Headphones will be provided as advertised on the itinerary pages. No refund will be made if they cannot be provided for operational reasons.
Premium Highlights: Featured sightseeing is integral to our tours, therefore no refund will be given (or value attached) if not used or operated for any reason.
London Airport Transfers: Can be purchased through Insight providing the following conditions have been met:
- Your Travel Agent provides detailed flight information to Insight no less than 21 days prior to departure.
- You must stay at a London Hotel booked by Insight on the night of your arrival and the night prior to your departure date.
- In the event of flight delays outside of Insight's control, the transfer will be deemed to be cancelled.
- All transfers are based on group shuttle. No refund is therefore available for missed transfers.
- In the event of unforeseen events Insight will not be responsible for delayed or cancelled transfers.
- For passengers flying into London's Gatwick Airport, Insight recommends the Gatwick Express see website at www.gatwickexpress.com.
Continental Europe Airport Transfers: Passengers will only be entitled to transfers to and from European Gateway Airports providing the following conditions have been met:
- Coach transfers only operate at the scheduled times and days specified for each tour. Passengers arriving or departing outside these times may purchase a transfer through Insight or make their own way to/from the tour hotel.
- For those who choose to make their own flight arrangements, flight details must be provided to Insight by the Travel Agent not less than 21 days before the flight departure.
- Your flights should be timed to allow you to clear customs in good time for the scheduled transfers - ask your travel agent for advice.
- As these are group transfers, in the unlikely event of a missed transfer through flight delays outside Insight's control, passengers will need to make their own alternative transfer arrangements at their own expense.
- Passengers who have booked pre or post tour accommodation with Insight, will NOT be entitled to be transferred to or from the Airport and transfers will be at the clients expense. These can also be purchased through Insight.
Airport transfers in Cairo, Athens, Istanbul, Amman and Tel Aviv: transfers operate at all times, between the airport and the tour hotel on the first and last day of the tour and also in conjunction with pre and post tour accommodation booked through Insight. The following conditions apply:
- For those who choose to make their own flight arrangements, flight details must be provided to Insight by the Travel Agent not less than 21 days before the flight departure for entitlement to the transfers.
- You must be staying at the Insight tour hotel, booked by Insight, on the night of your arrival and the night before the date of your departure flight.
- Only one arrival and one departure transfer per person is included.
- As these are group transfers, in the unlikely event of a missed transfer through flight delays outside Insight's control, passengers will need to make their own alternative transfer arrangements at their own expense.
- Transfers cannot be routed to other pick-up points or destinations other than those booked.
- Transfers are non-transferable to other people.
Baggage Allowance & Porterage: Porterage for one suitcase on tour is included and at arrival or departure from each tour hotel. Due to limited coach capacity this single bag should have a weight not exceeding 30kg (66lbs) and dimensions not exceeding 77.5cm (30.5in) x 56cm (22in) x 32cm (12.5in). Charges will be levied in the event these limits are exceeded and our promise to transport you as indicated may be invalidated. Note: Airlines may restrict check-in baggage to 20kgs per person.
Tips & Taxes: All tips are included for services on tour provided by dining room waiters, chambermaids and to the crew on Nile and Aegean cruises. Where porterage is specified as being included, tips are included for the porters.
WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED IN THE TOUR PRICE
Airfares to and from Europe, airport taxes and charges imposed by third parties, passport and visa fees, insurance, laundry, phone calls, beverages, meals not detailed in the itinerary, tips to Tour Directors, motorcoach drivers and local city guides, items of a personal nature, excess baggage, optional excursions. TRAVEL INSURANCE IS HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Note that in Egypt, service charges (of up to 33%) will be levied on all additional services, meals, beverages etc not included in the tour price. This service charge will be applied on your hotel bill at time of checkout.
PAYMENTS
Deposit: US$200 per person, per tour, per pre/post tour option.
Final Payment: 45 days prior to departure or 90 days prior to departure for pre or post tour options including European river cruises.
- Your land reservation will be confirmed on receipt of a non refundable deposit of US$200 per person, per tour which is required within 7 days of booking, (except on some departures where space is limited and your deposit may be required sooner. You will be advised at time of booking.) Your reservation will automatically be cancelled if the deposit is not received within the specified period.
- Payment in full is required at time of booking for reservations made less than 45 days before departure (90 days for tour options including European river cruises).
- Insight reserves the right to cancel the reservation and apply cancellation charges should payments not be received within the above specified periods.
- Your agent shall, on the receipt of any monies, hold such monies for each and every person named in the booking until the booking is confirmed at which times those monies shall be remitted promptly by your agent to us. All such monies received by us will be deposited as required by law. We will be entitled to keep for each account any interest earned on such monies. It is a condition of our confirmation of your booking and acceptance of your deposit in respect of your tour, that all monies paid by you to us through your agent, whether by way of deposit or otherwise in respect of your tour, may be disbursed by us as and when we see fit or in respect of the services to be provided or fees payable under the tour programme, and the payment of a deposit or otherwise for your tour shall be deemed to be a direction to disburse such monies as aforesaid.
- Travel documents and instructions for joining your tour can be collected from your Agent approximately 14 days before departure (provided full payment has been received).
CANCELLATIONS, REFUNDS & BOOKING CHANGES
For Oberammergau supplements see separate conditions on page 19 of the brochure.
- Notice of cancellation must be made in writing either directly to Insight or through your Travel Agent.
- A fee of US$30 per person will be charged for any revision or alteration made to a reservation after the booking is confirmed unless the change increases the value of the booking. A change of tour date or tour itinerary within 45 days of tour departure (90 days for options including European river cruises) will be treated as a cancellation, and normal cancellation fees will apply except when the change is to an earlier tour departure of equivalent value or greater value in which case a US$30 per person amendment fee will be charged.
- There are no refunds for any unused services including unused London airport transfers.
- The following scale of charges will apply when cancellation is notified.
| No. of days prior to tour commencement |
Cancellation fee as % of total price |
| 45 days or more |
US$200 p.p. per tour |
| 45-22 days |
25% |
| 21-8 days |
30% |
| 7-1 days |
50% |
| Day of departure |
100% |
The following scale of charges will apply when cancellation is notified for pre or post tour options including European river cruises:
| No. of days prior to tour commencement |
Cancellation fee as % of total price |
| 90 days or more |
US$200 p.p. per tour |
| 89-60 days |
35% |
| 59-30 days |
50% |
| Less than 30 days |
100% |
The following scale of charges apply when cancellation is notified for additional accommodation.
| No. of days prior to date of stay |
Cancellation fee as % of hotel price |
| 45 days or more |
US$30 per person |
| 44-22 days |
25% |
| 21-15 days |
30% |
| Lett than 14 days |
100% |
5. Airlines & Airfares: If a promotional airfare contained in this brochure is broken or extended for any reason, an additional cost may be payable.
Cancellation Security: By purchasing Cancellation Fee Waiver, the full amount of your deposit and/or payment to Insight will be refunded should
you cancel your tour for any reason prior to departure.
CANCELLATION FEE WAIVER
US$ 89 per person per tour
In the event that one or more European/Mediterranean countries should not grant you a visa, we have devised a unique scheme to protect you against cancellation fees!
Waiver fee is payable at the time of booking and is non-refundable. It does not apply to cancellations due to changes of mind or for medical reasons. N.B. This scheme is applicable only in the event that you provide documentary proof of having a visa application refused by the embassy. Does not apply to bookings within 14 days prior to departure date, bookings with 5 or more passengers, Oberammergau portion of the tour and all tours that include rail and/or cruises.
These cancellation fees are in addition to any cancellation fees that may be levied by your Travel Agent.
Illness or Absenteeism: In case you have to withdraw from a tour after it has begun for reasons such as illness, be sure to obtain a medical certificate in support of any insurance claim. We regret that we are not able to make refunds for absences from a tour, including but not limited to missed meals or sightseeing. Please ensure you consult your Travel Agent for an appropriate travel insurance policy.
GENERAL INFORMATION & CONDITIONS
Tour Prices: Are based on costs, charges, tariffs, rates, prices, taxes, levies and exchange rates as at 3rd September 2009. Should any of these costs change a surcharge may be made on the price of your vacation. If the total tour price increases by more than 10%, passengers will have the right to cancel within 7 days of notification of the surcharge without penalty. No surcharges in respect of cost or currency fluctuations will be made once payment for the deposit of your land tour is received. This guarantee does not apply to pre-registered bookings, or departures where prices are still subject to confirmation. This guarantee also excludes fuel surcharges and does not apply to any taxes, charges or levies imposed by any government or its agencies. In exchange for these guarantees no refund will be made if costs are reduced. All prices are in US$ unless otherwise specified.
Pre-registered Bookings - As the published price for subsequent years may vary depending on a number of factors including, but not limited to, international exchange rates, possible changes to the itinerary or different product content, the final price may need to be adjusted.
Tour Membership:
- Children under 5 years of age are ineligible. Children under 8 years of age are ineligible on pre or post tour options including European river cruises.
- Passengers with disabilities are welcome on Insight's tours providing they are accompanied by a person capable of providing all assistance required, and do not require special assistance from Insight personnel. Insight reserves the right to refuse to carry anyone it felt cannot cope with the requirements of coach tour travel and who may require services and facilities that Insight cannot guarantee will be available. You agree to not hold the Insight group of companies responsible for any decision made by any of them or any service provider to refuse to carry you, provide any facilities or accommodation to you or to provide any services to you. Please note that wheelchair access on Nile Cruise boats is limited, please check with your travel agent for details.
Itinerary Variations: Insight constantly strives to improve tour itineraries and features. If such improvements can be made, or unforeseen circumstances beyond our control make changes necessary, we reserve the right to vary itineraries and to substitute hotels. At certain peak periods duplicate departures may operate, sometimes in reverse, in which case hotels will probably vary from those listed in this brochure. Trade fairs (e.g. IBC congress in Amsterdam) and other events (e.g. Venice film festival on Lido) occasionally cause changes from scheduled hotels. In these and in other cases substitute hotels may be used and will be of a similar standard and location whenever possible.
Holidays & Changes: During local or national holidays abroad, certain facilities such as museums, sightseeing tours and shopping may be limited. In such instances, and whenever possible, slight itinerary adjustments are made by Insight Vacations to minimise inconvenience to our passengers. If, however, you feel your enjoyment might be diminished by such minor limitations please check with the respective national tourist office before selecting a specific departure. Similarly, holidays, closing days and other circumstances may necessitate a change of the day of the week for Highlight Dinners, sightseeing or other activities.
- Pre or post tour accommodation is subject to availability. If not available, an alternative may be offered, however, additional transfers to or from the tour hotel are not included.
- On locally-hosted tours, sightseeing and other services may occasionally be provided by third parties in which case transportation and itineraries may vary.
- Note that hotel information is provided as a guide. Information on facilities has been provided by the hotels concerned. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, facilities may change without notice.
- Due to religious festivals or other reasons it will occasionally be necessary to rearrange some itineraries and hotels. Ports of call on Mediterranean cruises may sometimes be curtailed if weather conditions do not permit docking.
- Cruises will be operated by the cruise ships as indicated on the tour pages, however,due to maintenance and other circumstances beyond our control, alternative cruise boats of equal standard may be used.
Tour Cancellation: Insight reserves the right to cancel or reschedule any tour departure in accordance with operating requirements or circumstances beyond its control. Between 01 May & 15 October Insight will give at least 50 days notice of any tour cancellation or re-schedulling. At other times, at least 30 days notice will be given. Should this occur, we will offer you an alternative arrangement. If there is a difference in cost this will be for your account. If you do not accept this alternative arrangement within 7 days we may treat this contract as at an end. We will refund all monies and will then be under no further liability.
Insight is not responsible for the costs of any other travel arrangements affected due to our cancellations or reschedulling of any tour departure.
RESPONSIBILITY
All British Isle and Continental Europe tours are operated by Insight Vacations Limited, The Picquet House, St. Peter Port, Guernsey, GY1 1AF, Channel Islands. Insight Vacations Limited referred to as the operator, undertakes the following duties:
- The Operator shall be responsible to the passenger for supplying the services and accommodations described in this brochure, except where such services cannot be supplied or the itinerary used is changed due to delays or other causes of whatever kind of nature beyond the control of the Operator. In such circumstances, the Operator will do their best to supply comparable services, accommodation and itineraries and there shall be no refund in this connection.
- This brochure represents the entire agreement between the passenger and the Operator.
- In the absence of their own negligence, neither the Operator nor their agents or co-operating organisations shall be responsible for any cancellations, delays, diversions or substitution of equipment or any act or omission whatsoever by air carriers, transportation companies, hotels or any other persons providing any of the services and accommodations to passengers including any results thereof, such as changes in services or accommodations necessitated by same. Nor shall they be liable for any loss or damage to baggage or property, or for injury, illness or death, or for any damages or claims whatsoever arising from loss, negligence or delay from the act, error, omission, default or negligence of any person not its direct employee or under their exclusive control, including any act, error, omission, default or negligence of any country, government or governmental authority, officer or employee. All baggage and personal effects are at all times and in all circumstances at the risk of the tour participant. Baggage insurance is recommended. The carriers, accommodation and other suppliers providing services are independent contractors and are not agents, employees, servants or joint venturers of the Operator or their affiliates. All certificates and other travel documents for services issued by the Operator are subject to the terms and conditions specified by the carriers and suppliers and to the laws of the countries in which the services are supplied. Carriage by sea is subject to the Carrier's Conditions of Carriage which are expressly incorporated into this contract, copies of which are available upon request. The Operator is not responsible for any criminal conduct by third parties.
- Where the passenger occupies a motorcoach seat fitted with a safety belt, neither the Operator nor their agents or co-operating organisations will be liable for any injury, illness or death or for any damages or claims whatsoever arising from any accident or incident, if the safety belt is not being worn, or the passenger is not seated when the coach is moving, at the time of such accident or incident.
- Transportation companies, airlines etc. are not to be held responsible for any act, omission or event during the time passengers are not on board planes, transportation or conveyances. We rely on international convention which may apply to the services provided by us, our suppliers or agents with respect to any claim of any nature brought by you against us as a result of the provision of those services. International conventions which apply may include: Warsaw Convention 1929, (as amended by Hague Protocol and Montreal Protocol) in relation to air travel, or Montreal Convention; the Berne Convention for rail travel; Athens Convention 1974 for carriage by sea; the Geneva Convention for carriage by road and the Paris Convention 1962 for Hotels. We are to be regarded as having all benefit of these conventions on limiting our liability in relation to any claim for death, injury, loss, damage and delay to passengers and luggage. Enrollment in and payment for a tour shall constitute agreement and acceptance by the passenger of the terms and conditions set forth in this brochure which cannot be varied except in writing by an officer of the Company.
- Insight Vacations (S) Pte Ltd, is only responsible for the services of reservations and ticketing, it does not accept any responsibility or liability for any of the acts, omissions, or defaults, whether negligent or otherwise, of its principal Insight Vacations Limited or any of the companies of the Insight group of companies.
All matters arising in relation to the services provided by Insight Vacations (S) Pte Ltd, but not in respect of other things, are subject to the Laws of Singapore.
- Every effort is made to ensure brochure accuracy at the time of going to press; however Insight cannot be held responsible for printing or typographical errors, or errors arising from unforeseen circumstances.
All bookings made with any provider of any transport, facilities, meals, other goods or, of any services, are subject to terms and conditions imposed by them in relation to matters not covered particularly and expressly by our agreement with the above mentioned Operator in the Insight group of companies.
DATA PROTECTION STATEMENT
In order to process your tour booking, Insight Vacations will need to use personal information for you and other passengers included in your booking. This personal information may include each passenger's name, address, phone number, email address, passport number, credit/debit card number and sensitive information such as health, medical, dietary, mobility, religious or other special requirements. This personal information may be passed on to other suppliers of your travel arrangements in addition to public authorities such as customs and immigration, security and credit checking organisations, and otherwise as required by law. Similarly, we may also need to provide personal information to contractors who provide services to or for us e.g. sending mail, processing payments, providing marketing assistance. This may involve sending personal information including sensitive information to other countries that may not afford the same level of protection of personal information.
We may also use the personal information you provide us to review and improve the tours and services that we offer, and to contact you (by post, email and/or telephone) about other tours and services offered by Insight Vacations that you may be interested in. If you don't want to receive this information, or if you want a copy of the personal information we hold about you, write to us at info@insightvacations.com.sg. Insight Vacations may charge a fee for supplying you with this information as permitted by law.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
Tour Documents: Your tour documents, travel literature, wallet and comprehensive pre-departure documentation will be sent to you prior to departure. Please read this information carefully as it contains essential information and helpful advice to make your vacation as enjoyable as possible.
Passports & Visas: All passengers require a valid passport valid for 6 months after their trip return date and may require visas. Some countries require multiple visas. It is the passengers' responsibility to ensure he/she travels with the appropriate documents. Your Travel Agent will advise you of the necessary documents required.
Travel Insurance: Insight recommends that all passengers purchase comprehensive Travel Insurance. Certain European countries have a requirement for foreign visitors to have medical insurance on entry. Insight cannot be held responsible for denied entry should a passenger be unable to provide details to the authorities of such insurance.
Walking Tours: Many of Insight Vacations' tours feature walking tours and comfortable walking shoes are recommended for all passengers.
Plan Your Budget: You are advised to do this well in advance and be sure to allocate funds for special events whilst on tour, such as theatre, celebration meals, shopping and side trips, and 'Optional Excursions'.
Optional Excursions: Insight carefully plans each itinerary to include the important sightseeing highlights and excursions. Understanding that each of our guests has different interests and priorities, it is neither possible nor desirable to include every possible excursion in the tour itinerary. To enhance your experience, we offer a range of optional visits, activities and local meals available throughout your tour. Our Optional Excursion List is designed to cater for all tastes and is included with your documentation for use as an aid in budgeting. Payment can be made in cash and with credit cards.
Complaints Procedure: Should you have a complaint in respect of your holiday, you should inform your Insight Tour Director or Representative during the course of your holiday. If the matter cannot be resolved after the representative's best endeavours to do so during the holiday, your complaint should be made in writing to Insight Vacations as soon as possible after the holiday.
Smoking Policy: There is a No Smoking policy whilst travelling. However, we make plenty of convenience stops, allowing you ample opportunity to smoke if you wish, use local restroom facilities, or just relax and enjoy a cup of coffee.
|
TWITTER 
FACEBOOK 
INSIGHT'S TRAVEL FORUM
Bookmark
Email
Delicious
Facebook
Google
Yahoo
;)