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Antarctica
Presented By: WinWin Vacations

Day 1: Monday, January 07, 2013 Overnight Flight
Begin your journey to the “White Continent” with an overnight flight to Buenos Aires.

Day 2: Tuesday, January 08, 2013 Buenos Aires, Argentina - Tour Begins
Arrive this morning in Buenos Aires, the “Paris of South America” and home of the tango. Enjoy a Porteños tour, viewing the Teatro Colon opera house; Avenida 9 de Julio honoring Argentinean independence; the Recoleta Cemetery, where “Evita” rests in her tomb; the Presidential Palace, the Casa Rosada; and the San Telmo barrio lined with cobblestone streets. Before dinner, meet your fellow travelers at a special welcome reception. (D)

Day 3: Wednesday, January 09, 2013 Buenos Aires
Today is at leisure to experience this lively city. Browse the boutiques of Calle Florida or visit one of the many renowned art museums. Perhaps choose to discover the Parana River delta and its picturesque islands, elegant mansions and craft market. (B)

Day 4: Thursday, January 10, 2013 Buenos Aires - Ushuaia
This morning you fly to Ushuaia, the world’s southernmost city situated on the Patagonian peninsula overlooking the historic Beagle Channel. Experience a home-hosted dinner with a local Fuegon family to learn about life at the “end of the world.” (B, D)

Day 5: Friday, January 11, 2013 Ushuaia - Embark Ship
Journey into the “Land of Fire” at Tierra del Fuego National Park. Walk the shores of Roca Lake and see evidence of the settlements of the now-extinct Yámana indigenous people, and visit Lapataia Bay where the Panamerican Highway ends. Enjoy free time in this famous port town before boarding the state-of-the-art MS Fram expedition vessel. (B, D)

Day 6: Saturday, January 12, 2013 The Drake Passage
Cruise south through the fabled Drake Passage, named for the legendary Sir Francis Drake. Warmer waters of the north meet the colder, denser waters of the south here in the Antarctic Convergence, making the area rich in marine life. Spot whales and sea birds as you begin this voyage of exploration. Experts provide presentations on history, biology and geology throughout your adventure. (B, L, D)

Day 7: Sunday, January 13, 2013 The Drake Passage - Antarctica
Arrive in Antarctica – the last great wilderness stretching across ice-covered desert and mountains for over five million square miles. The ethereal beauty and immense scale of the continent is like nowhere else on the planet. Follow in the footsteps of the great explorers…the privilege of witnessing this fragile, remote environment is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. (B, L, D)

Day 8: Monday, January 14, 2013 Antarctica
The next five days are filled with discovery! Weather conditions determine each sailing’s final itinerary. Cruise through the astounding, glacier-lined Lemaire Channel – “Kodak Gap” – and enter the majestic Neumayer Channel with its imposing cliffs. Humpback, killer and minke whales – and icebergs – are common sights. PolarCirkel (rugged zodiac) boats take you to incredible locations along the Antarctic Peninsula, which could include: • Half Moon Island, a small island in the South Shetland chain boasting mountainous views and a nesting place for chinstrap penguins, kelp gulls and the Antarctic tern. (B, L, D)

Day 9: Tuesday, January 15, 2013 Antarctica
Continue your visits by PolarCirkel boats to locations which could include: • Whalers Bay, Deception Island – featuring an active volcanic caldera. Zodiac into Whalers Bay where ruins from a 20th-century whaling station rest ashore. The black volcanic sand and waters upon the beach are warmed by geothermal vents. • Almirante Brown Research Station in Paradise Harbor, where gentoo and chinstrap penguins nest. (B, L, D)

Day 10: Wednesday, January 16, 2013 Antarctica
Continue your visits by PolarCirkel boats to locations which could include: • Neko Harbor, part of the Antarctic mainland nestled in the fjord-like Andvord Bay, where penguins plus elephant and weddel seals are often spotted. (B, L, D)

Day 11: Thursday, January 17, 2013 Antarctica
Continue your visits by PolarCirkel boats to locations which could include: • Port Lockroy, a harbor on Goudier Island and former British base, hosting cormorants and surrounded by glaciers and ice shelves. Here you can mail home a postcard with a rare Antarctic stamp! (B, L, D)

Day 12: Friday, January 18, 2013 Antarctica
Continue your visits by PolarCirkel boats to locations which could include: • Wilhelmina Bay, where mountains and high glaciers create dramatic scenery. View the 1915 wreck of the Norwegian ship, Guvernøren. • Antarctic Sound & Brown Bluff – hear the tale of the 1903 Swedish polar expedition which met its fate here at “Iceberg Alley.”At Brown Bluff, you may have the chance to stroll the beach with the cute adélie penguins. (B, L, D)

Day 13: Saturday, January 19, 2013 Antarctica - Drake Passage
Leave Antarctica, crossing the southern waters of the Drake Passage. Participate in engaging lectures on Antarctica’s wonders. (B, L, D)

Day 14: Sunday, January 20, 2013 Drake Passage - Ushuaia, Argentina - Disembark Ship - Buenos Aires
Disembark the ship in Ushuaia, transfer to the airport and return to Buenos Aires. This evening, celebrate the end of your journey as you enjoy a dinner featuring Argentine favorites and a tango performance! Admire the passion and artistry of the show, meet the dancers and even try some steps of your own. (B, D)

Day 15: Monday, January 21, 2013 Buenos Aires - Tour Ends
Board your overnight flight to return home. (B)




January 07 - January 21, 2013
15 Days • 33 Meals
13 Breakfasts • 8 Lunches • 12 Dinners
Highlights: Buenos Aires, Ushuaia, Home-Hosted Dinner, Tierra del Fuego National Park, 9-Night Cruise aboard MS Fram, The Drake Passage, Half Moon Island, Deception Island, Paradise Harbor, Port Lockroy, Antarctic Sound, Tango Dinner Show
Cruise-Land: These combine the best of land and sea. These tours feature all the qualities of our traditional escorted tours, including a Tour Manager; and include high quality cruise ships that feature various amenities.
Rates Per Person
DON'T MISS OUT! BOOK NOW!
Inside Cat. Double: $10,799.00
Inside Cat. Single: $15,399.00
Outside Single: $17,049.00
Outside Double: $11,749.00
Main Outside Single: $18,099.00
Main Outside Double: $12,349.00
Outside Superior Single: $19,299.00
Outside Superior Double: $13,049.00
Suite Single: $22,149.00
Suite Double: $14,649.00

REGULAR RATES
Inside Cat. Double: $11,049.00
Inside Cat. Single: $15,649.00
Outside Single: $17,299.00
Outside Double: $11,999.00
Main Outside Single: $18,349.00
Main Outside Double: $12,599.00
Outside Superior Single: $19,549.00
Outside Superior Double: $13,299.00
Suite Single: $22,399.00
Suite Double: $14,899.00
*Included in Price: Round Trip Air from Seattle Tacoma Intl Airport, Air Taxes and Fees/Surcharges of $120 (subject to increase until paid in full), Hotel Transfers.
*Not Included in Price: Cancellation Waiver and Insurance of $305 per person.
Itinerary at a Glance
Day 1 Overnight Flight
Day 2 - 3 Hotel Panamericano, Buenos Aires
Day 4 Hotel Los Yamanas, Ushuaia
Day 5 - 13 M/S Fram, Antarctica
Day 14 Hotel Panamericano, Buenos Aires
On some dates alternate hotels may be used.
Essential Experiences
  • Explore Whalers Bay on Deception Island with its warm springs and black volcanic sand.
  • Discover multitudes of curious Antarctic wildlife, including seals, whales, albatross and penguins.
  • Zodiac into small harbors and islands for in-depth discoveries and personal adventures.
  • Journey into beautiful Tierra del Fuego National Park, the “Land of Fire.”
For more information call
 Kristina Trowbridge
WinWin Vacations
(206) 297-7179
kristina@winwinvacations.com
Included Meals Key
B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner
Extend your vacation with...
Optional 4 Days 3-Night Iguazu Falls Exploration Post Extension
Rate: $1449 USD per person, double, land and air included
5 Meals: 3 Breakfasts, 2 Dinners

Day 15: Buenos Aires - Iguazu
Fly north to Iguazu Falls, the stunning natural wonder located at the crossroads of Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay. Heralded as the most beautiful waterfall in the world, this tropical location possesses a sheer beauty which led Eleanor Roosevelt to famously exclaim “Poor Niagara.” Enter the park in Argentina - which proudly boasts two-thirds of the falls - and enjoy a walk through the Argentine falls. Behold the powerful Devil’s Throat and the lush vegetation that create an idyllic paradise. Marvel at the majesty of these thundering waterfalls which, taller than Niagara Falls, are comprised of 275 distinctive cascades. Surrounded by the Misiones rainforest, soak up the sights and sounds of the tropics. The Panoramic Hotel Iguazú provides a full offering of amenities, sweeping views of the meeting of the Iguazu and Parana rivers, and is centrally located in the town of Iguazu. (D)

Day 16: Iguazu
This morning venture to the famous Three Frontiers landmark to gaze upon the convergence of the Iguazu and Parana rivers. At the lookout point, take in the extraordinary panorama that portrays the frontiers of Paraguay and Brazil. Return to the park and ride the Rainforest Ecological Train to the start of the Circuito Superior and Inferior nature trails and catwalk paths. Enjoy up-close views of Devil’s Throat from new vantage points and discover unparalleled views of the Dos Hermanos, Bossetti, Ramirez, Chico and San Martin waterfalls as they all plummet into the Iguazu River below. Spend the remainder of the day exploring these stunning surroundings, or perhaps cross over to the Brazilian side* of Iguazu Falls for the phenomenal views of Devil’s Throat and watch as fourteen falls drop 350 feet. Look for rainbows in the cloud of spray – you’re so close, you’ll likely get wet! Relax tonight at dinner in this tranquil, tropical setting. (B, D)

Day 17: Iguazu - Buenos Aires
Return to Buenos Aires and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. Your hotel is conveniently located on the 9th of July Boulevard, close to pedestrian shopping avenues, sidewalk cafes and lively restaurants. (B)

Day 18: Buenos Aires - Tour Ends
Your tour ends today in Buenos Aires. (B)


AVAILABLE OPTIONS:
Buenos Aires
Tigre Y Delta Boat Tour & Train Ride • $80.00
Just 18 miles outside of Buenos Aires, discover the extraordinary ecological zone of the Parana River delta. Embark on the adventure-of-a-lifetime when you travel to Olivos to board the Tren de la Costa (Riverside Train*). On this breathtaking journey, behold a picturesque coastline dotted with marinas, stunning homes and riverside dwellings. Upon arrival in San Isidro, take a short trip up the Tigre. A private river excursion by boat explores the streams and canals of this river delta. Each year, 90 million tons of sediment carried by the river creates thousands of islands and islets crisscrossed by rivers and brooks. The natural beauty of the Tigre will amaze you as you travel down its web of interconnecting river ways. *Please note that if the train is not available due to scheduling, this scenic journey will instead be done by bus.
CANCELLATION WAIVER:

Worry-Free Cancelation
Our industry-leading cancellation waiver offers travelers a full cash refund for the price of the tour, right up to the day prior to departure, minus the small cost of the waiver. Travel worry-free knowing if anything changes, you're protected.

Plus, you're covered on tour.
Our cancellation waiver and insurance plan covers you on tour. If you have to stop your trip or return home early, need medical assistance or evacuation, suffer a baggage loss or delay; or are delayed on tour for 12 hours or more, you're covered.

Cancellation Waiver and Insurance is just $305 per person.

Click here for complete details.

TRAVEL TIPS:
Antarctica
Listed below is important information to assist you in preparing for your upcoming trip. This information provided will help you have a more enjoyable experience while you are on your tour.
Accommodations
On some programs, there are a limited number of single and triple rooms. Double rooms usually consist of 2 beds. Triple rooms are normally a standard double room with 2 beds. A cot or rollaway bed may be added to the double room at some hotels, based on room size and fire codes. When triples are not available, appropriate charges for single and twin accommodations will be assessed. We make every effort to accommodate your specific requests and forward them to the hotels. These requests cannot be guaranteed as hotels may not always be able to honor them. Check-in times are set by individual hotel properties and vary by hotel. Depending on your arrival time, there may be a delay in gaining access to your room as most hotels offer afternoon check-in. We ask guests to observe check-out times at all properties as designated by the hotel. Some hotels require a credit card imprint or your passport information upon check-in in order to activate telephones in the rooms and for potential incidental charges. Most hotels charge an access fee for using phones in hotel rooms. Please check with the front desk personnel at each hotel for specific policies. Hotel membership programs are not applicable. In certain countries, hotel rooms tend to be smaller than standard U.S. accommodations. Please be assured that we use high quality properties throughout each country.
ADA
The Americans with Disabilities Act does not apply outside of the United States. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, we will make reasonable efforts to accommodate the special needs of tour participants. Persons requiring individual assistance must be accompanied by a companion who is capable of, and totally responsible for, providing the necessary assistance. Neither our personnel nor its suppliers may physically lift or assist clients onto transportation vehicles. We regret that we cannot provide individual assistance to a tour member who has special mobility, dietary or other like needs.
Clothing & Packing Tips
As you prepare to explore Antarctica, enjoy a casual dress style and be sure to pack comfortable walking shoes. It is recommended to bring clothing that may be worn in layers that may be added or removed as the temperature changes. We strongly recommend that you bring a pair of lightweight rain pants, perhaps made of nylon or similar material. These will be most useful in keeping your pants dry during Zodiac excursions with wet landings between ship and shore, as well as for rainy days. Be sure to pack a pair of rubber boots; this is one of the most important articles of clothing you will need. Your boots should be completely waterproof and knee-high with sturdy soles. On occasion, you will be stepping from the Zodiac into water that may be up to 10 inches deep. Your rain pants should be able to fit over your boots, and you should allow enough room to wear thick socks. Rubber Boots are available on board the ship as well. To keep your hands warm, pack mittens or gloves; both leather and manmade fabrics are fine. We also suggest that you bring a pair of silk (or similar) glove liners to wear underneath your mittens or gloves. This will allow you to move your fingers freely when, for example, you wish to adjust camera controls. We strongly recommend that you bring at least one thick woolen crewneck or turtleneck sweater to wear under your parka on colder days. In addition, thermal socks can be worn under thicker wool or synthetic walking socks; all-purpose skin creams with good UV-B protection; sunglasses; binoculars (a must); plastic bags to protect camera and video equipment and a waterproof backpack to transport gear ashore are all great to have with you on this trip. If you are prone to motion sickness on the open sea, be sure to pack your motion sickness medication. A water-repellent, wind-proof jacket will be provided onboard for all passengers at no additional cost. You may want a heavier jacket for warmth or additional layers. The best way to beat the cold is by wearing two or three thin layers of clothing rather than one thick layer. Air trapped between layers becomes warmed by the body and creates instant insulation from the effects of cold. Keeping dry also plays an important role in staying warm. Finally, it is important to have the proper covering for head, hands, and feet. As a general rule, wool, silk, and synthetic fabrics are recommended as they trap air better than cotton. Silk-weight turtlenecks, jerseys, camisoles and underwear help "wick" moisture away from your body and can act as your first layer. For your second layer, you might want a heavy shirt, while a third layer would be a sweater or cardigan-type jacket. There is no organized nightly entertainment on board the ship; Mother Nature will provide the majority of your entertainment. All evenings on board the ship are casual. Resort wear or "smart casual" clothing is appropriate.
Bring a camera, film, and batteries and be sure to bring enough photography supplies for your entire trip. If you have a video camera, bring an extra battery, plus proper recharging equipment. Due to security screening, we recommend storing your equipment in your carry-on luggage. Bring a travel alarm clock, travel sewing kit and an alcohol based gel hand sanitizer when soap and water is not accessible. Pack items that may leak in plastic bags. Do not pack any articles of value in your checked luggage. As a precaution, we suggest that you divide the contents of your suitcase with your traveling companion. Avoid over packing and leave room for souvenirs that you plan to take back home. You may opt to pack wash cloths as they are not readily available in international hotels.
If you are taking prescription medication, please be sure to take an adequate supply for your tour and a few additional days, in original prescription containers. Medication should be packed in your carry-on baggage. Do not place it in your checked luggage. You may want to carry an extra prescription in a separate bag in case medication is lost.
Cruise
SHIP INFORMATION MS Fram was specially designed for cruising arctic waters. Through the extensive use of wool, leather, and oak, its interior has a Nordic feel. As she spends the summer months cruising the Greenland Sea, the MS Fram is decorated with works by esteemed Greenlandic artists. The cabins are stylish and comfortable, and feature two lower berths or a twin-sized bed, private bathrooms with hair dryers. Each is fitted with air-conditioning, heating, and a smoke alarm. There are a variety of suites and junior suites with queen-size beds and TV. She offers a comfortable restaurant, two well-stocked bars, panoramic lounges, Internet café, and conference rooms. She also features a library with a selection of books about the polar regions, a fitness room, a sauna, two heated outdoor Jacuzzis, a gift shop purveying souvenirs, postcards, stamps, and other personal effects. Fast Facts Tonnage: 12,700 tons Length: 114 meters Width: 20.2 meters Berths: 318 Cabins Your cabins are well-appointed and are tastefully decorated. All cabins have a private bath with shower and mirrored dressing table. Cabins have porthole windows, are double occupancy, and most cabins have twin beds. Dining The MS Fram has both the IMAQ Restaurant as well as Bistro for your dining needs. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served in the IMAQ. The cuisine is international with a Norwegian influence. Breakfast and lunch are buffets, dinner is seated. Evenings Onboard Ship: There is no organized nightly entertainment on board the ship. Mother Nature will provide the majority of your entertainment. All evenings on board the ship are casual. Alcohol Policy - while on board the M/S Fram, guests are respectfully reminded that only beverages purchased from the ships restaurants and bars can be consumed on board. Alcoholic beverages purchased in ports-of-call and from our on-board shops will be stored by the ship and delivered to your cabin on the last day of the sailing. According to Norwegian law, persons over the age of 18 are allowed to purchase beer and wine. Spirits are only available to persons over the age of 20 years. Facilities and Amenities The MS Fram offers a wide range of modern, first-class amenities. Sweeping decks offer plenty of room to view the panorama of the Antarctic landscape. The comprehensive fitness center and Jacuzzi offers exercising. For the mind, enjoy the well-stocked library and the internet area. There is a wireless internet area as well. The MS Fram features a lounge, bistro, arcade and exploration deck. Medical Services The MS Fram features a well-equipped medical center staffed by a trained physician and licensed nurse. Daily and Nightly Activities Each day throughout your cruise you will receive a Daily Program listing the special activities and features of the day. The Antarctic continent is the coldest, driest, windiest place on earth and almost by definition gives an expectation of extreme cold. However, since you will be in Antarctica during the Austral summer, temperatures will not be as extreme as you think. Exact temperature predictions are impossible. As a very general guideline, you can expect the highest temperatures to be around 28-45°F (-2° to 7.2°C) on sunny days, which you will undoubtedly experience during the course of your journey. The lowest temperatures may be around 20°F (-5°C) as wind chill factors play an important role on the very coldest days. If you follow the clothing recommendations, you will be well prepared for any type of weather.
Currency
Your personal bank card may work at local ATM machines in the destination you are traveling to and would dispense local currency. Please contact your bank to determine if this option is available, that your PIN number will be accepted, to inform them that you are traveling and to determine if any charges apply for each transaction. You may exchange your money at airports, banks, exchange bureaus, and at some hotels (although the exchange rate and fee is usually higher at hotels). In most cases, a commission charge will be assessed to exchange your money. Locations in the city usually offer a better currency exchange rate than airports. We recommend carrying only a few major credit cards. Credit card purchases often provide an extra guarantee on your purchase (check with your specific credit card company for details and fees). It is advisable to contact any credit card company you intend utilizing while on tour before you depart to notify them where you will be traveling, to avoid any rejection of services. If optional tours are made available to purchase, please note that credit cards must have an expiration date of greater than 30 days from the start of the tour.
Electricity
An adaptor (which changes the physical plug) and/or converter (which changes the electric current) are necessary if you plan to use an appliance with voltage different from the standard within the country you are visiting. All voltage in Argentina is 220v. Onboard ship, the cabins feature 220 volt current. Please note, if your appliance has dual voltage, you may still need an adaptor for the plug. When packing your electronic items for travel, please review the converter electric current level to make sure it the same or greater than the items you are planning on using. For safety reasons, travel irons are not allowed. Each bathroom is equipped with a built-in hair dryer so it may not be necessary to bring one. If you plan on utilizing or transporting a sleep apnea machine, please remember to pack an extension cord & adapter plug to ensure proper function.
Elevation
Highest elevation included on tour is 36 feet (11 meters), in Buenos Aires.
Helpful Hints
Bring a copy of your passport/identification and pack it separately from the original. Leave a copy of your tour itinerary at home with your emergency contact and a copy of your passport. Remember when flying you can only take one quart size bag with no more than 3 ounces of any one liquid. Liquids that do not fit in the one quart size bag and are larger than 3 ounces will be discarded by security. Remember to hydrate and get up and stretch while flying. If you are considering using your cell phone while traveling internationally, you should check with your cell provider concerning their access and charges for overseas calls, texting and emailing for the specific destination you are traveling to.
Included Features
The following are included in your tour package: transportation via motorcoach, accommodations, hotel luggage handling, meals, sightseeing, admission charges (as outlined in your itinerary), and applicable gratuities for bellmen, doormen and dining room wait staff. Customary gratuities for cruise ship personnel, hotel housekeeping staff, local sightseeing guides, drivers and tour managers have not been included.
Local Guides
In order to further enhance your experience of this destination a naturalist guide has been arranged. Customary gratuities for guides are not included in the cost of the tour. Gratuities should be extended on a voluntary and individual basis at a suggested amount of 1-2 USD per day. Your tour manager will review customary tipping amounts and timing with you when you are on your tour.
Luggage
Due to the limited motorcoach capacity, one carry-on (36 inches in length, height and width; not to exceed 11 lbs. /5.2 kg.) and one checked luggage (62 inches in length, height and width; weight not to exceed 23kg/50lbs) are allowed. Please consult with your scheduled airline as luggage fees and restrictions vary by carrier and destination. Wheeled carry-ons are not suitable for coach tours. If you exceed the limit of 2 bags, we cannot guarantee that your additional luggage will be able to fit in the touring vehicle. Storage or shipment of additional luggage will be at your own expense. If we are able to accommodate your additional luggage, we will assess a fee of 4 USD per bag per hotel. Please remember to label your luggage and important items with your name, home address and telephone number. We recommend labeling your luggage on both outside and inside of the bag. Please attach only the plastic luggage tag included in this mailing to your checked luggage before checking in for your flight. Your paper luggage tag is to be attached at the first hotel. We cannot assume liability or accept claims for loss or damage to luggage and personal effects due to breakage, theft or normal wear and tear that results from hotel, airline and group carrier handling. It is in your best interest to have adequate insurance (such as our comprehensive "No Worries Travel Protection") to cover these eventualities.
Meals
Meals are included as indicated in your itinerary. All scheduled meals include a choice of coffee or tea. Beverages of wine, beer, and sodas are generally at your own expense while in Buenos Aires and Ushuaia. Guests with special dietary requirements must advise a sales representative at the time of booking and also the tour manager upon joining the tour. When information is provided, every effort will be made to accommodate these requests but not all requests can be guaranteed. For meals not included in your program, your tour staff will be able to assist you with suggestions. While onboard ship, all meals are included. Beverages included with your meal onboard ship are coffee and tea. Group members will be seated together at dinner. Breakfast and lunch are served as open seating in the main dining room. Please be advised that the average cost of meals not included in the tour itinerary is as follows: lunches 10 to 15 USD and dinners are 25 to 40 USD. Please note that the water is not safe to drink in Buenos Aires or Ushuaia and we strongly recommend that you drink bottled water (not included in the tour cost). The tour manager will point out locations convenient to purchase bottled water.
Miscellaneous
In order to enjoy your vacation to the fullest, please be prepared for the following: Walking tours of towns and national parks. Stairways encountered do not always have handrails. Shore excursions during the cruise will require getting in and out of Zodiac watercraft. You must be capable of stepping down into the floor of the Zodiac, which will be moving in the water. To leave the Zodiac, once you arrive on shore, you must be capable of swinging your legs over the side of the Zodiac and sliding down from the boat. Most landings will require walking through a couple feet of water, known as a water landing. (A certain amount of balance and agility is necessary.) Shore excursions may involve several hours away from restroom facilities. Please note that the Drake Passage has earned a place in history for its potentially rough seas. Those prone to seasickness should ask their doctor about prescription and non-prescription treatments that are available.
Name Badges
Name Badges Collette Vacations provides name badges to our travelers in order to facilitate conversation among fellow travelers. The name badge also ensures that a Collette Vacations representative can easily recognize you, especially at airports upon arrival.
Reading List
Interested in reading about your destination before you depart? Collette has pre-selected travel guides, novels and books on history, nature and art to help enhance your total vacation experience. You can access the complete list by typing the following into your web browser. Select the region of the world to find your tour: http://www.collettevacations.com/travel-books.cfm
Shopping
If you purchase DVDs or other electronic equipment abroad, check that it is compatible with your PC or other home equipment.
Business Hours Most stores in Buenos Aires and Ushuaia are not open on Saturday afternoons and Sundays. Most retail shops are open from 9:30 or 10:00 am until 6:00 pm during the week.
Smoking
Smoking Restrictions: Our tours are non-smoking throughout. If you require a smoking room, please alert your agent upon tour booking. Please be mindful of locations where smoking is prohibited: the motorcoach, at dining venues and other restricted areas on tour including most hotels. Customers are responsible for any fines incurred for failure to comply with smoking restrictions.
Time Zone
Buenos Aires is 1 hour ahead of Eastern Standard Time.
Tour Manager
We pride ourselves on having the best-trained and most experienced tour managers in the industry. Gratuities should be extended on a voluntary basis and should be in direct proportion to the level of professionalism and personal service extended to you throughout the tour. Past experience has shown that a guideline of 4-6 USD per person for each traveling day is a customary amount for the tour manager. A customary amount of 3-5 USD per person per day is suggested for the driver.
Transportation
Flight Information, Departure Taxes & Fees Land Only Vacations: If you chose to purchase a land only vacation, pay particular attention to flight segments that occur during the tour which are not included in your land only rate. You must purchase these internal flight segments and the schedule must match the flights that we utilize on the group tour. Please provide us with your flight schedules for the entire tour six weeks prior to departure so we may secure services if you purchased transfers from us, as well as maintain emergency contact. Air Inclusive Vacations Air inclusive vacations cover air transport to and from your origin gateway as well as all internal air segments on tour. In order to comply with Homeland Security’s “Secure Flight” mandate, all passengers must provide full name, date of birth and gender at time of reservation. Your airline ticket must match the name on your valid, non-expired, government issued photo ID to be shown at the airport (including middle name, first or middle initial). If you are a member of a participating frequent flyer program, provide the number upon booking and retain the passenger copy of your ticket and boarding pass to ensure that you receive proper credit of your mileage. Some air tickets are not eligible for mileage accrual. Whenever possible, we will add charges for air departure taxes to your invoice. Some international arrival and departure fees are not included in your air ticket and must be paid by you on tour in local currency.
Transfers We are pleased to provide you with complimentary airport to hotel, and hotel to airport transfers at the beginning and end of an escorted tour when you purchase an air-inclusive vacation. Land-only clients who have purchased round trip transfers will be accommodated at the same times as air inclusive clients. Arrival meeting locations and transfer departure times are provided on your document booklets. On some programs there may be a waiting period at the airport due to varying flight schedules of other arriving passengers. If you have secured your own transfer, you may meet your tour manager at the hotel. Motorcoach Information: We do not own or operate vehicles. We charter quality coaches that are temperature controlled vehicles. Coach size may vary based upon the number of tour patrons. In certain countries, lavatory equipped motorcoaches are not available or the lavatory is for emergency use only. Frequent stops will be made en route for comfort and convenience. Seat Rotation: Seats are rotated for the benefit of our tour guests, fosters communication, and enables our guests to enjoy a variety of vantage points on the motorcoach. Guests will rotate seats at least once a day, as directed by the tour manager. In fairness to all, there will be no exceptions to this policy.