Question 1

How do I register for MyInsight?

Accepted Answer

Registration for your tour can be completed by visiting MyInsight. It only takes a few minutes and you will be asked to enter your contact details such as an email address, a mobile phone number, and the contact details of a nominated person we can call in the event of an emergency. We also invite you to share details of any specific dietary requirements and travel preferences, find all your itinerary details, be able to download your e-documents, and meet your Travel Director on-line.

Question 2

Insurance/Travel Protection

Accepted Answer

Please procure Travel Insurance before travelling. This will protect your whole travelling and will give you peace of mind. We suggest that your insurance covers the following:

Cancellation or curtailment of your vacation due to medical or other reasons
Loss or damage to your property and baggage
Loss of cash, credit cards etc
Medical costs and personal accidents

Certain countries require visitors to have valid medical insurance on entry and in Europe, you may find that doctor's surgeries, dentists and hospitals often require payment in cash prior to providing services. Whilst rare, medical evacuation can be exceptionally expensive.

Do remember to bring a copy of your policy, contact phone numbers and details of how to claim.

Should you choose to travel on Insight Vacations without the required travel insurance, you will full responsibility for all expenses (trip interruption, trip delay, medical expenses, quarantine expenses and emergency evacuation/repatriation) that may arise while travelling with us.

Question 3

Border crossing, Visa requirements and Passports

Accepted Answer

Please make sure that your passport and the passport of anyone travelling with you are valid for at least 6 months.

You will likely need a visa. We recommend that you check your government’s travel advice website for up-to-date information to see what is required but this information can also be found at the country’s embassy or consulate. Check your itinerary carefully and remember that requirements vary based on passport place of issue and the process can take time. Please note that countries will likely require individual visas. It is also important to be aware that with some itineraries you may travel through a country without making an overnight stop, but will still require a visa to enter/exit.

To help you stay up-to-date, Insight Vacations has provided a powerful and easy-to-use tool that provides a wealth of information all in one convenient place. Simply select your passport and destination to view the travel requirements for your tour. As travel guidelines tend to change quite frequently, it is best to check for the most current travel restrictions as you get closer to the departure of your journey. Try it now.

Please ensure that you carry proper identification with you at all times as entry documents and passports will be required at border crossings. Usually crossing borders is a very straightforward process that is managed by your travel director, however, be advised that you may be required to open luggage and answer simple questions regarding the length of your stay, purpose of travel etc.

Question 4

When will I receive my documents?

Accepted Answer

All TTC brands participating in this initiative moved entirely to e-documents. You can view access e-documents at MyInsight. Documents will no longer be mailed.

Question 5

Why is it important that I give my name as it appears on my passport when booking air?

Accepted Answer

Due to increased travel security around the world, it is now more important than ever that your airline ticket match your first and last name exactly as it reads on your passport. Additionally, any changes to your air booking, which include spelling, could be subject to a change fee, penalties or cancellation.

Question 6

Will I need any vaccinations?

Accepted Answer

This varies from destination to destination and will depend on your personal health circumstances. Please speak to your Travel Agent or doctor to find out if vaccinations are required.

Question 7

What if I have mobility issues?

Accepted Answer

Please notify Insight Vacations of any disability requiring special assistance prior to travelling. We will try our best to accommodate you throughout the tour and will inform the hotels.

Question 8

What if I have medical needs?

Accepted Answer

You will need to pack a plentiful supply of any medication that you may need while on vacation. All prescriptions should be filled up-to-date and in their original packaging. Always pack prescriptions in your carry-on bag with copies of your prescription paperwork as your checked luggage may not always be easily accessible.

We recommend that you research the rules around taking your medication to your destination country and what proof of treatment you’re expected to bring with you. For example, you can avoid any issues at airport customs in Spain by having your prescription drugs and doctor’s letter readily available. However, not all European countries have the same regulations.

Every day over-the-counter medicines such as paracetamol are not carried on the coach. Your Travel Director will be able to advise you where to purchase items if needed.

Question 9

What if I have food allergies?

Accepted Answer

Please advise us of any dietary requirements by completing registration on MyInsight. We will make arrangements with our suppliers where possible.

You will also need to talk to your Travel Director at the beginning of your tour and they will do their utmost to arrange an alternative menu at the hotels and restaurants.

Question 10

Pre-Travel Checklist

Accepted Answer

Because navigating travel requirements can be challenging, we’ve put together this handy checklist to help you prepare for your upcoming trip. All requirements must be satisfied to travel, so we recommend completing each item as soon as you can to ensure your Insight Vacation is seamless and stress-free.

Download your Pre-Travel Checklist

Question 11

Who travels with Insight Vacations?

Accepted Answer

All our guests share a passion for travel, fun, adventure and discovery. Ages range from young to mature with an average of mid-50s, travelling either solo, as couples, with families or with friends and join us from all over the world! Insight Vacations plays host to over 100,000 guests every year and has offices in the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Singapore and the UK.

The company has also appointed specialist agents in Argentina, Brazil, Mauritius, India, Ireland, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Thailand, Philippines, Indonesia, Korea, Taiwan and China. It is therefore quite typical to find many different nationalities on any one trip and discover people from halfway across the world who you only met yesterday will fast become friends.

Question 12

What does the tour cost include?

Accepted Answer

The prices listed in our brochure and website cover all hotel accommodations, all applicable sightseeing and admissions as per the itinerary, motor coach, cruise or rail transportation, services of a professional Insight Travel Director, all meals as shown in the itinerary and luggage handling. All tips have been included for services on trip by dining-room staff, chambermaids and porters at hotels, airports, docks and train stations.

Question 13

What are my options as a solo traveller?

Accepted Answer

Travelling solo with Insight Vacations gives you the freedom that comes with travelling alone, plus the security and camaraderie of a small group.

You have two accommodation options as a solo traveller. Either choose to be matched with a same sex partner for a room share - at no extra cost. Or choose a room of your own with a reduced or even free private room upgrade on select tours.

Find out more about our Solo Travel Options.

Question 14

What is the difference between a definite departure and a departure that is not marked definite?

Accepted Answer

A definite departure has reached the minimum number of guests for the tour to operate. If a tour and departure date you are interested in is not yet definite, do not let this discourage you from booking. The more paid guests we receive, the odds of the tour operating increase.

In the slim case that we happen to withdraw a tour you are booked on due to a lack of numbers, you are entitled to a full refund on the funds already paid towards Insight Vacations or if flexible with your time, we can move you onto another departure.

Question 15

When do tours become designated definite?

Accepted Answer

As a rule of thumb, a tour becomes a DEFINITE departure once we have sold approximately half of the maximum capacity of a specific departure. On average because a sold-out Insight Vacations accommodates 40 guests, a tour is designated definite at the 20 guest mark.

Question 16

How much luggage can I bring?

Accepted Answer

Travelling with Insight Vacations entitles each guest to travel with one suitcase not exceeding 23kg (50lbs) in weight, with dimensions not exceeding 77.5cm (30.5in) x 56cm (22in) x 32cm (12.5in). Guests may also bring one item of hand luggage that is small and light enough to be carried onto the coach and fit underneath the seat, or in the small overhead compartment above. (Luggage with adjustable handles and wheels will not fit).

Please test the weight of your baggage prior to travel. You should be able to lift and comfortably transport it for short distances.

Baggage allowances vary from airline to airline and you should check with your chosen carrier for details prior to travel.

Find out more about your luggage allowance.

Question 17

What should I pack?

Accepted Answer

The weather in Europe is very variable so we suggest that you pack layers of clothing that can be added or removed as necessary.

Pack a comfortable pair of flat shoes/trainers for walking. You will be visiting cities and sites with cobbled streets and uneven terrain.

Pack a light waterproof jacket. As the weather is changeable, you don’t want to be caught out by the rain and a lightweight waterproof is an excellent solution which won’t take up too much space in your suitcase.

Pack a sun hat during the summer months. Many European cities are hot during the summer and shade may not be readily available.

Pack a light scarf and at least 1 skirt/trousers which stop below the knee. Some excursions will take you to Cathedrals or other religious locations where more modest attire, covering the shoulders to below the knees, is appropriate for both men and women. A scarf applied across the shoulders is perfectly acceptable.

Pack a smart outfit. You may wish to bring a dressier outfit for visits to the cabaret, theatre or an elegant restaurant. Smart casual clothes are usually acceptable attire for other evening activities.

Other useful items that you may wish to pack can include:

A travel iron if you prefer clothes to be pressed
Wash cloth and carry bag
A copy of your hotel contact list so should your luggage be mislaid by your airline you can be reunited with it easily
We would also suggest that a change of clothes and essential travel toiletries should be packed in your hand luggage for the same reason
A photograph of your luggage contents in case of loss
Scented soap, fabric softener sheets or scented sachets can be packed to keep your clothes smelling fresh and clean throughout your tour

Question 18

Is porterage included?

Accepted Answer

Porterage is included for each guest’s suitcase throughout the tour (one item per person) which means that you only have to bring your hand luggage on and off the coach each day. The porters will deliver all suitcases to the coach where the Travel Director will check them and the driver load them into the baggage compartment. Your Travel Director will provide a blue luggage tag which we advise you to use as this assists with identification and security.

On arrival at each hotel, suitcases will be delivered to your rooms by the hotel porters. We suggest that you may wish to pack toiletries and any personal items you may want immediately on arrival in your hand baggage where they are instantly available.

Question 19

How much travel money should I bring?

Accepted Answer

When planning how much money to bring we suggest that you consider such things as spending money for meals that are not included e.g. lunches and beverages, alcoholic drinks etc. Any Optional Experiences/sightseeing tours that you may wish to purchase, as well as shopping, gratuities and any incidentals such as laundry or dry cleaning and so on.

If you plan to purchase local currency before you travel we suggest that you request notes of smaller denominations as many local stores and restaurants may not be willing to accept the higher ones. For example, if purchasing Euros, request denominations of €50, €20 and €10.

If you do not want to travel with lots of money on you, there are plenty of ATMs throughout Europe. You will be charged in local currency by the vendor and your credit card company will convert the charges based on the exchange rate that they implement. A fee is charged for this. Visa, American Express or MasterCard are widely accepted in most shops and restaurants.

To make your trip as smooth as possible, please inform your bank prior to your departure. This ensures that your provider will not deny payment because they think the transaction could be fraudulent. We also recommend that you have an overseas contact number for your bank and/or credit card company with you if you need their assistance when travelling.

Tipping While Travelling

Tipping is an important thing to think about when preparing your travel money. Tipping etiquette varies by country, culture, and situation. It is generally a gesture that shows appreciation for the quality of service that you received.

When travelling with Insight Vacations we have pre-paid certain tips and gratuities for you. Baggage handling at hotels, service charges and tips for hotel wait staff (for included meals) will be taken care of by your Travel Director. There are however a few instances where individual tipping is welcome.

Question 20

Airport check-in

Accepted Answer

Generally, check-in times require guests to arrive at the airport a minimum of two hours before a domestic flight and three hours for international flights. This allows you plenty of time to check in and pass through security to the boarding area. Online check-in means you can save time and fuss at the airport by checking in for your flight via the website prior to your arrival at the airport.

Please allow enough time to get to your flight - be aware that during busy travel periods or at airports with heightened security you may experience longer queues. Boarding usually starts 30-45 minutes before departure and the gate generally closes 20 minutes prior to departure. Check with your airline to see what time check-in counters open.

Question 21

Airline connections

Accepted Answer

Travelling internationally may require you to change planes in major airports and your airline will provide you with details of the minimum connection time required to transfer from one gate to another at each specific airport. When checking in for your flight ensure you check in to your final destination so you do not need to claim luggage and re-check it during flight connections.

Question 22

Will I need to book transfers?

Accepted Answer

Most Insight Vacations guests benefit from complimentary arrival and departure transfers by shuttle coach on the arrival and departure day of their guided holiday. Times are specified on the individual itinerary pages. If your flight times do not coincide with the shuttle coach transfer timings you may choose to book and purchase a transfer.

In addition, guests who arrive before or leave after the scheduled holiday may also book a transfer through Insight Vacations providing they also purchase the additional pre- and/or post- holiday hotel night(s).

Insight Vacations provides complimentary airport transfers in the Eastern Mediterranean and Latin America region at any time on the first and last day of the vacation or on other days in conjunction with pre-and / or post-trip accommodation booked through Insight Vacations. Flight times must be provided to Insight Vacations at least twenty-one days before flight departure in the case of Eastern Mediterranean trips and fifty days for Latin America.

You will find specific joining instructions as to where you will locate an Airport Host or Travel Director at the scheduled transfer times in your travel documents.

Note Exception: When travelling to London, transfers are chargeable from London Heathrow and London Gatwick Airport to your Insight hotel.

Airport Transfers for North America

Guests make their own arrangements for arrival transfers, and departure transfers unless the last day is a travel day ending with an airport drop (see itinerary for airport arrival times). Insight Vacations offers the option to purchase private transfers for selected cities. Guests may check at the time of booking if those are offered for the selected itinerary. Otherwise, guests will be provided local transfer options after booking so they can make their own arrangements.

Guests arriving before or leaving after the scheduled itinerary day may choose to purchase a private transfer through Insight Vacations provided that they also purchase the additional pre- and post-trip hotel night(s) from Insight Vacations. When booking extra night(s) accommodations, guests will have the opportunity to book the relevant transfer service(s).

Question 23

Travelling with children

Accepted Answer

At Insight Vacations, our younger guests are just as important as our older ones, so we’ve taken care to craft action-packed itineraries that’ll impress children aged five years or older to travel on our guided vacations. All children and young people under eighteen years old must however be accompanied by an adult who will be responsible for their supervision and welfare.

Some countries have established practices to prevent international abductions of children and because of this, it is recommended that you secure a “Child Travel Consent” prior to departure if you are travelling with a minor who is under eighteen years of age. This documents that a minor has permission from his or her parent(s) or guardian(s) to travel and may be requested by authorities and officials when a child is travelling internationally:

With one parent or guardian
Without a parent
Alone
With an adult who is not a parent or guardian

If the travelling parent has sole custody, he or she will require a notarised true copy of a court order or equivalent proving custody. If both parents have custody, or the non-travelling parent has custody, the travelling parent will need notarised consent from the non-travelling parent. We recommend that you contact relevant consulates and airlines for additional information and guidance.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

BEFORE YOUR TOUR

REGISTRATION & DOCUMENTS