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Home
Britain and Ireland Explorer
A well paced tour with two-night stays in the contrasting cities of Edinburgh, Dublin and Killarney; plus a variation in pace with two different Irish ferry crossings to Dublin and from Rosslare.
| Summary |
Highlights |
Itinerary |
Prices & Dates |
Savings & Discounts |
Optionals |
Conditions |
Included Premium Highlights
- In Stratford-upon-Avon visit the birthplace of the Bard, William Shakespeare
- Visit Edinburgh Castle for fine views over the city and to see the 'Honours of Scotland'
- Experience the sights & spectacle of the Edinburgh Millitary Tattoo (selected departures only)
- Embark on a guided highlight cruise on Loch Lomond - one of Scotland's most beautiful lochs
- Join a local guide for a visit to Dublin Castle (when open)
- Experience the magnificent Ring of Kerry with breathtaking views over mountains and sea
- Visit the well-preserved Roman Baths and Georgian Pump Rooms in the English city of Bath
- Visit the mysterious megaliths of Stonehenge
Included Personal Insights
- Learn some of the lesser known facts about the life of William Wordsworth, Britain's best-loved poet
- An equine professional will join you for a behind the scenes look at Ireland's National Stud and its famous Japanese Gardens
Included Additional Excursions & Sights
- Enter York's medieval city walls to see the Minster and the tilting houses of the 'Shambles'
- See Durham's Castle and fine Romanesque Cathedral
- See part of the Roman built Hadrian's Wall
- See Jedburgh's ruined Abbey
- Cross Edinburgh's New Town and drive the Royal Mile to Holyroodhouse Palace
- Visit the university town of St Andrews to see the famous golf course
- Drive through dramatic Glencoe
- See Chester's 'Rows' and city walls
- See Dublin's Customs House
- See the Rock of Cashel
- Kiss the stone at Blarney Castle
- Visit Waterford Crystal showroom
- See Cardiff's Millennium Stadium and Castle
- Cross the mighty Severn bridge
- Scenic drives - English Lake District, Ring of Kerry, Scottish Highlands, Grampian Mountains
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
- Free London Airport shuttle service, conditions apply.
Included Quality Dining
- Traditional Highland Dinner with Scottish entertainment (HD)
- 12 full Breakfasts (B) and 5 three-course Dinners with choice, or buffets, plus tea or coffee (D)
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Day 1 - LONDON - STRATFORD - YORK
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After a warm welcome from your Tour Director, drive through the Oxfordshire countryside into the 'heart of England' to Stratford-upon-Avon to visit the birthplace of the Bard, William Shakespeare. Head north to York, the ancient capital of Viking Britain, and see history unfold before your eyes as you pass the crooked houses of the 'Shambles' to reach York Minster, England's largest medieval cathedral. Settle into the hotel with a Welcome Drink with your fellow travellers.
Hotel: Hotel 53 (D)
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Day 2 - YORK - DURHAM - EDINBURGH
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Stop off in Durham to see the castle and the fine Romanesque cathedral before moving on to see Hadrian's Wall, Britain's most impressive Roman monument. Cross the wild Northumberland moors into Scotland, passing Jedburgh Abbey and the house of the ill-fated Mary Queen of Scots en route to the capital of Edinburgh, your base for two nights. Hotel: Royal Terrace (B)
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Day 3 - EDINBURGH SIGHTSEEING
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A guided tour takes you inside Edinburgh castle, dominating the city from its rocky crag. Continue down the Royal Mile, past the venerable St Giles' Cathedral, to see the Queen's Holyroodhouse Palace before crossing over to the 18th century New Town. The afternoon provides time to shop on Princes Street. Tonight, selected departures enjoy the Military Tattoo - a colourful mixture of historic battles and military manoeuvres, complete with pipes and drums. (B)
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Day 4 - EDINBURGH - HIGHLANDS
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After breakfast drive towards the Fife coast to St Andrews, a picturesque university town and home of the famous golf course. Over the River Tay, through Dundee and Perth to Pitlochry, to cross the Grampian Mountains for a warm Highland welcome at your hotel. This evening enjoy a Highlight Dinner with haggis, accompanied by dancing and the sound of the bagpipes. Hotel: Laggan Country Hotel. (B,HD)
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Day 5 - HIGHLANDS - LAKE DISTRICT
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Mountains and glens greet you as you drive through dramatic Glencoe. On the 'bonnie, bonnie banks of Loch Lomond' you'll board a guided Highlight cruise on one of Scotland's most beautiful lochs. Afterwards, continue south through Glasgow into the Southern Uplands of Scotland before crossing the border to arrive at your hotel in the beautiful English Lake District. Hotel: Windermere Hyrdo (B,D)
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Day 6 - LAKE DISTRICT - GRASMERE - MANCHESTER
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Time to enjoy the beauty of the Lake District, its fells, lakes and valleys combining to make it one of England's best loved regions. There is time take an optional cruise on Lake Windermere, before stopping in Grasmere where the Lakeland poet William Wordsworth is buried. Then it's on to our hotel in Manchester for the evening. Hotel:
Park Inn (B,D)
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Day 7 - MANCHESTER - CHESTER - DUBLIN
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Step back into Roman times in Chester. See the city's ancient encircling walls and its remarkable 13th century black and white galleried 'Rows', now shopping arcades. Continue into Wales, glimpsing the massive Conwy Castle before crossing the Menai Straits to pass through the world-famous village with the very Welsh name of Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch. From the port of Holyhead, sail across the sea to Ireland and its fun-loving capital, Dublin, for a two-night stay.
Hotel: Burlington (B)
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Day 8 - DUBLIN SIGHTSEEING
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A local guide will show you Dublin's elegant Georgian squares and the equally impressive castle, which you will visit (if open). Also see the Irish President's home in Phoenix Park, famous O'Connell Street and the historic Customs House. The afternoon is yours to shop in elegant Grafton Street or to continue sightseeing. In the evening, why not treat yourself to an Irish cabaret show and dinner? (B)
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Day 9 - DUBLIN - KILLARNEY
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Drive to County Kildare, Ireland's premier thoroughbred horse region, for a guided tour of the National Stud, and admire the adjoining Japanese Gardens. Continue to view one of the great sights of Ireland, St. Patrick's great Rock of Cashel, crowned with the noblest group of medieval monuments in Ireland. Cross the rolling pastures which encircle Tipperary, which is immortalised in the famous song, before reaching Killarney.
Hotel: Killarney Towers (B,D)
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Day 10 - RING OF KERRY EXCURSION
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A delightful excursion takes you around the magical Ring of Kerry, a world of towering cliffs, lush lake lands and remote villages. As you pass through Ireland's highest mountain range, the MacGillicuddy Reeks, a sense of the unhurried pace of Irish life will surround you, especially as you reach the three peaceful Lakes of Killarney. In the afternoon, perhaps take an optional ride with the locals on one of Killarney's jaunting cars. (B)
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Day 11 - KILLARNEY - WATERFORD
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Cross the rugged Derrynasaggart Mountains to visit the famous 15th century Blarney Castle, the home of the famous stone of eloquence, once kissed, never forgotten! Travel on through the scenic port of Dungarvan to the historic walled city of Waterford, where you can admire a sparkling display of crystal before settling into your hotel for the night.
Hotel: Dooleys. (B,D)
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Day 12 - WATERFORD - CARDIFF
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Drive to Rosslare to take the ferry across the Irish Sea to Pembroke. Continue past the valleys of South Wales to the Welsh capital, Cardiff, famous for its imposing castle and the brilliant Millennium Stadium.
Hotel: Radisson Blu. (B)
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Day 13 - CARDIFF - BATH - STONEHENGE - LONDON
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Cross the Severn bridge, spanning the Bristol channel between England and Wales, then on to Bath with its Georgian streets and crescents, and visit the Roman Baths. Cross Salisbury Plain and stop to visit the mysterious megaliths of Stonehenge. From here, travel to London, where the tour ends. (B)
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Great Savings and Discounts
FRIENDS & FAMILY DISCOUNTS
SAVE UP TO 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, 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.
FREQURENT 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 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) |
R67500 |
| Britain & Ireland Explorer (20 July) |
R20075 |
| 4 x nights in London |
R4320 |
Total vacation price |
R91895 |
| Less Extra Tour Discount |
R1004 |
| Less 5% Past Guest Frequent Traveller Saving |
R3375 |
| Less 12mths Early Payment Discount |
R8655 |
Net vacation price after savings |
R78861 |
| Total savings per person |
R13034 |
| Total savings per couple |
R26068 |
Note: Additional savings apply for families, groups, and single travellers. Conditions as detailed in the savings boxes on this page
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).
Insight Offers You Peace of Mind
GOLD SEAL PROTECTION PLAN
COVERAGE FOR CANCELLATION & RETURN FLIGHT SECURITY FOR ONLY R590P.P.
Most tour operators are interested in their clients only after they reach their destination. However, by purchasing our Gold Seal Protection you get a great deal even before you leave home!
CANCELLATION SECURITY:
By purchasing Gold Seal Protection, 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 from South Africa. This cancellation option covers the Land arrangements made by Insight Vacations only.
It is not applicable to Egypt, Israel, Turkey, River Cruises, Greek Cruises, the Oberammergau portion of any tour, airline deals and rail components.
RETURN FLIGHT SECURITY:
Should you, your travelling companion, or a member of your direct family in South Africa fall sick* while you are on your Insight Tour, we will take care of the additional cost of tickets for your earlier or later return home in the same class of air travel on the first available flight, provided you hold round-trip tickets on Insight's recommended airline(s) from South Africa and have booked them through Insight.
In addition, Insight will refund both you and your travelling companion R90 per day for the unused portion of the tourˆ. Now how's that for peace of mind!
Gold Seal Protection must be paid at time of deposit and is not refundable for any reason. *Medical certificates are required. ˆPlease note that in some cases hotels require a one night cancellation fee.
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).
Please note that optional excursions featured below are based on the 2009 tour season and are listed for guidance and budget purposes only and are subject to change without notice.
OPTIONAL SIGHTSEEING & EXCURSIONS
With Insight, you will enjoy many of Europe's famous highlights as included features
on your tour - at no extra cost. However, there are an exciting array of additional
excursions which are made available to help turn an already outstanding experience into
a trip of a lifetime. These are entirely optional and offered to you at competitive
prices. They are all bookable through your Tour Director at the commencement of your
tour as many of them are planned to coincide with the best highlights available at the
time of your visit. The following list is a general selection as it would be impossible
to operate all excursions on any one tour. This selection will vary due to seasonal
conditions and museum opening days and times. Your Tour Director will give you a
receipt once you have paid for your excursions. Payment can be made in cash or by Visa,
Mastercard and American Express.
Please note that credit/ debit card payments can only
be processed in Pound Sterling however cash can be taken in most major currencies and
your Tour Director will be able to give you specific details of relevant exchange rates
on commencement of your tour.
HOW TO BUDGET FOR 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 £35 per person
per day for optional excursions.
EDINBURGH
EDI01 SCOTTISH CABARET
Tonight is a chance to put on that tartan and join us for an evening of singing,
dancing and bagpipe playing. There is food, wine and a great atmosphere. Join in with
the singing, we'll show you a Highland dance or two and there's a chance to sample
Scotland's national dish - haggis. It's a grand night and a wonderful way to celebrate
an evening in Edinburgh. UK £ 41.00
EDI02 DINNER IN EDINBURGH
This evening we visit a local restaurant for a three-course dinner with a drink
included.UK £26.00
EDI03 HOLYROOD PALACE
An afternoon tour of the Scottish royal residence of Holyrood Palace. It is here
that the Queen receives Scottish nobility. We enjoy a guided tour around the State
Apartments and a stroll in the Queen's lovely gardens. Thereafter we continue on for
views from the legendary Arthur's Seat. UK £ 12.00
LAKE DISTRICT
LKD01 LAKE WINDERMERE CRUISE & STEAM TRAIN RIDE
Windermere is England's largest lake, what better way than a cruise followed by a
ride aboard a steam train from Lakeside to Haverthwaite. UK £13.00
DUBLIN
DUB01 DINNER & CABARET
Over an excellent dinner you'll enjoy a non-stop show featuring comedy, dance, song,
music and fine food. Ireland's musical history unfolds in a cabaret that will delight
you long after the night has ended. The cast will have you tapping your toes and
joining in the fun, and it's all wrapped up in the spirit of Irish humour. We will
serve you an Irish coffee at the end of dinner which will put you in the mood for
Ireland's best night out. € 64
DUB06 DINNER & DUBLIN COAST DRIVE
A three-course dinner at a local restaurant followed by a scenic drive around Dublin
Bay. € 39
KILLARNEY/COUNTY KERRY
KLL01 JAUNTING CART RIDE
Don't miss this opportunity of taking a ride with a 'jarvie' in one of the most
famous jaunting cars. € 18
KLL03 SIAMSA TIRE THEATRE
Tonight we experience the folklore and spirit of the life and times when even the
most everyday chore would be celebrated in old Ireland. You'll be enthralled by the
performance of the Siamsa Tire players who will cast a spell that will stay with you
forever. € 26
KLL05 DINNER AND CEILIDH
Enjoy the great atmosphere or 'craic' at our ceilidh evening. Traditional Irish
music and dancing as well as the chance to sing along to some familiar Irish melodies.
Dinner is included on this fun evening. € 56
WATERFORD
WAT01 WATERFORD WALKING TOUR
We take a walking tour with a local guide and then continue to get to know the
locals with a drink in a typical pub.€ 20
CARDIFF
CWL01 WELSH CASTLE BANQUET
Go back in time and experience a medieval music event in the sumptuous surroundings
of Cardiff Castle. Hear stories of Wales in days of old and enjoy the beautiful Welsh
voices including Welsh Coral Singing. A three-course dinner of Welsh specialities is
included. Performers dressed in traditional Welsh Costume present the show. UK £
40.00
CWL02 CARDIFF CASTLE TOUR
Visit to this unique Castle given to the city by the Marquis of Bute who designed
some of the most unusual and spectacular rooms to be found in any castle in Britain. UK
£11.00
2009 v2
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, sightseeing vehicles, 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 R70 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 and arrivals.
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 – your travel agent will advise you of the most appropriate arrangement.
- 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 and motorcoach drivers and local city guides, items of a personal nature, excess baggage, optional excursions.
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: Non refundable R1,000 per person per tour. R1,500 for pre/post tour options including European river cruises
Airfare payments: Special Fare payment conditions apply for airfares from South Africa.
Please check with Insight Vacations for all payment procedures and conditions.
Final Payment: At least 45 days prior to departure from South Africa. 90 days prior to departure for pre/post tour options including European river cruises.
- Your land reservation will be confirmed on receipt of a non refundable deposit of R1,000 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 from South Africa (90 days for pre/post 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 will be sent to you approximately 21 days before departure (provided full payment has
been received).
CANCELLATIONS, REFUNDS & BOOKING CHANGES
- Notice of cancellation must be made in writing either directly to Insight or through your Travel Agent.
- A fee of R200 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 pre/post tour 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 or greater value in which case a R200 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 notice of cancellation is given after the booking is confirmed.
| No.
of days prior to tour commencement |
Cancellation fee as % of total price |
| More than 45 days |
R1,000 p.p. per tour |
| 45-22 days |
25% |
| 21-8 days |
30% |
| 7-1 days |
50% |
| Day of departure |
100% |
*Plus cancellation fees on any other services booked.
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 |
R1,500 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 |
R200 p.p. per person |
| 45-22 days |
25% |
| 21-15 days |
30% |
| 14 days or less |
100% |
5. Airlines & Airfares: If the restrictions of any promotional airfare are not adhered to, an amendment fee may be payable.
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. If a promotional airfare is broken or extended for any reason, an additional fare may be payable.
GENERAL INFORMATION & CONDITIONS
Tour Prices: Are based on costs, charges, tariffs, rates, prices, taxes, levies and exchange rates as at 1st October 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 Rand (R) 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 scheduled 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.
- 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 rescheduling 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.A.) (Pty) 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.A.) (Pty) Ltd, but not in respect of other things, are subject to the Laws of
South Africa.
- 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 and its affiliated travel brands (including Trafalgar Tours and Contiki Holidays) 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 PO Box 413786, Craig Hall, 2024, South Africa. Insight Vacations may charge a fee for supplying you with this information as permitted by law.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
Tour Documents: 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.
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