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Piedmont Technical College presents:
The Galapagos Islands & Machu Picchu
Day 1: Tuesday, February 04, 2014 Quito, Ecuador - Tour Begins
Begin in Quito, a UNESCO World Heritage site and Ecuador’s stunning capital city.

Day 2: Wednesday, February 05, 2014 Quito
Tour Quito’s colonial center, including the Presidential Palace and 17th-century church of La Compañía • Meet your fellow travelers at a welcome lunch overlooking the Pululahua volcanic crater • Cross between hemispheres at the Equatorial Line Monument and Museum at the “Middle of the World” • Try some “helado de paila,” a local ice cream specialty • Spend the rest of the day at leisure. (B, L)

Day 3: Thursday, February 06, 2014 Quito - San Cristóbal Island, Galapagos - Embark Ship
Fly to beautiful San Cristóbal Island, gateway to your Galapagos adventure • Enjoy lunch aboard the m/v Galapagos Legend • At Port Baquerizo Moreno, visit the San Cristóbal Cerro Colorado Tortoise Reserve • After exploring the island, stargaze from the deck of your ship and toast the wonders of the Galapagos with tropical cocktails. (B, L, D)

Day 4: Friday, February 07, 2014 Española Island (Gardner Bay and Suarez Point)
Board your panga to visit Gardner Bay • Guarded by a colony of sea lions, the beach is home to Galapagos hawks and endemic finches • Swim and snorkel with the marine life, including manta rays and white-tipped sharks • Continue to the volcanic terrain of Suarez Point • During a nature walk, watch for hooded mocking birds, lava lizards, Sally Lightfoot crabs and blue-footed boobies • Count Waved Albatross at the world’s largest colony • Finally, visit the Soplador blowhole where water shoots 75 feet into the air. (B, L, D)

Day 5: Saturday, February 08, 2014 Floreana Island (Post Office Bay and Cormorant Point)
Land at storied Post Office Bay, named for a barrel left in 1793 by Captain James Colnett as a “post office” for passing sailors • Continue the tradition and leave a letter • Snorkel if you choose with green sea turtles or search for Darwin’s finches and yellow warblers • Sail to Cormorant Point and its olivine green sand beach • Spot sting rays and reef sharks in the emerald waters • Learn about the ecosystem’s unusual plants • You may also observe graceful flamingos or spot a small colony of penguins • Enjoy another chance to snorkel and swim near the playful sea lions! (B, L, D)

Day 6: Sunday, February 09, 2014 Santa Cruz Island (Charles Darwin Research Station and Highlands)
Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station • See the giant tortoises from the station’s breeding program • Trek through the Santa Cruz highlands to Cerro Chato and find more giant tortoises • Savor some organic Galapagos coffee • Walk inside dormant lava tubes to gain insight on how these islands formed • Enjoy time to explore Port Ayora town. (B, L, D)

Day 7: Monday, February 10, 2014 Daphne Island - Disembark Ship - Baltra Island - Guayaquil
Garner panoramic views as you circumnavigate Daphne Island • Look for marine iguanas, fur seals and crabs teetering along the rocky shore • Bid farewell to the Galapagos and fly to Guayaquil • Tour this community known as the “Pearl of the Pacific” • Visit the Malecón 2000 waterfront area and the 19th-century neighborhood of Las Peñas with its Spanish-style houses • From Santa Ana Hill, look out over the city and the Guayas River. (B, D)

Day 8: Tuesday, February 11, 2014 Guayaquil - Lima, Peru
Fly to Lima, Peru’s “City of Kings” • Spend an afternoon shopping or visiting Lima’s many fine museums • Perhaps you’ll experience an optional Peruvian Paso horse exhibition, dinner and folklore show. (B)

Day 9: Wednesday, February 12, 2014 Lima - Cuzco - Sacred Valley of the Incas
Fly to Cuzco • Descend through the Andes to the Sacred Valley of the Incas, once the agricultural center of a great empire • Visit Awana Kancha, a living museum of the Peruvian Andes • Explore centuries-old methods of spinning, dyeing and weaving textiles • Stop in Pisac village to browse the handicraft market • Visit Pablo Seminario Ceramic Studio • Marvel at this internationally-renowned artist's techniques and designs, inspired by ancient Peruvian cultures • Settle into your hotel nestled in the Sacred Valley. (B, D)

Day 10: Thursday, February 13, 2014 Ollantaytambo - Sacred Valley of the Incas
Glimpse daily activities at a nearby village and connect with another culture • Visit the Ollantaytambo ruins, a spectacular example of Inca architecture • Do as the locals do and enjoy a tasting of “chicha,” a regional drink made from maize, at a local pub. (B)

Day 11: Friday, February 14, 2014 Sacred Valley of the Incas - Machu Picchu
Embark on a train ride through the Andes from Ollantaytambo to mysterious Machu Picchu • Hidden for centuries, the “Lost City of the Incas” is the most spectacular sight in South America • Spend the day exploring the fabled ruins • Overnight at the base of Machu Picchu • Soak up the mystical atmosphere and enjoy an exclusive culinary demonstration before dinner. (B, D)

Day 12: Saturday, February 15, 2014 Aguas Calientes - Cuzco
Take advantage of your leisure time this morning and return to Machu Picchu on your own or explore the local markets • Return by train to the Sacred Valley and continue to Cuzco, a city that blends Inca and Spanish colonial influences • En route to Cuzco, meet Peruvian children at an orphanage supported by the Collette Foundation • In Cuzco, relax and become acclimated to the altitude. (B)

Day 13: Sunday, February 16, 2014 Cuzco
Explore the former capital of the Inca Empire • Cuzco means “Center of the World” in the ancient Quechua language • On a city tour, experience the Spanish architectural legacy visible in the Cathedral, Santo Domingo and the Plaza de Armas • Discover the sacred Incan ruin of Sacsayhuaman Fortress • Spend some time browsing the local markets • See the San Blas artisans quarter or visit one of the impressive museums • Enjoy dinner and a traditional Andean folkloric performance. (B, D)

Day 14: Monday, February 17, 2014 Cuzco - Lima - Tour Ends
Return to Lima and tour its historical center, a UNESCO World Heritage site • Admire the artwork at San Francisco Monastery and enter the catacombs • View the Government Center, the Plaza de Armas’ Cathedral and the fashionable suburbs for insight into the life of Limeños • Before transferring to the airport, complete your day with a farewell dinner at the Larco Museum, housed in an 18th-century mansion. (B, D)



SAVE $250

February 04 - February 17, 2014
14 Days • 27 Meals
13 Breakfasts • 5 Lunches • 9 Dinners
Highlights: Quito, Middle of the World, 5-Day Galapagos Cruise, Guayaquil, Lima, Sacred Valley of the Incas, Pablo Seminario Ceramic Studio, Machu Picchu, Cuzco, Larco Museum
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!
MV Legend - Superior Double: $8,399.00
MV Legend - Superior Single: $11,099.00
MV Legend - Junior Suite Single: $11,999.00
MV Legend - Junior Suite Double: $8,999.00
MV Legend - Balcony Single: $13,199.00
MV Legend - Balcony Double: $9,799.00

REGULAR RATES
MV Legend - Superior Double: $8,649.00
MV Legend - Superior Single: $11,349.00
MV Legend - Junior Suite Single: $12,249.00
MV Legend - Junior Suite Double: $9,249.00
MV Legend - Balcony Single: $13,449.00
MV Legend - Balcony Double: $10,049.00
*Included in Price: Air Taxes and Fees/Surcharges, Attraction Taxes and Fees, Hotel Transfers, Round Trip Air from Charlotte Intl Airport
*Not Included in Price: Cancellation Waiver and Insurance of $305 per person
Itinerary at a Glance
Day 1 - 2 Hilton Colon Quito Internacional C.A., Quito
Day 3 - 6 KleinTours, Quito
Day 7 Hotel Oro Verde Guayaquil, Guayaquil
Day 8 Doubletree El Pardo, Lima
Day 9 - 10 Sonesta Posada del Inca Yucay, Sacred Valley
Day 11 Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel, Machu Picchu
Day 12 - 13 Casa Andina Private Collection Cusco, Cuzco
On some dates alternate hotels may be used.
Essential Experiences
  • Embark on a five-day cruise of the Galapagos Islands with a naturalist guide – see blue-footed boobies, sea lions, iguanas and more!
  • Admire the giant tortoises at the Charles Darwin Research Station and learn about conservation projects.
  • Climb from the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu aboard one of the world's most famed train rides.
  • Enjoy dinner at the Larco Museum in Lima, housed in an 18th-century mansion surrounded by lush gardens.
For more information call
 Jeanne Hughston
Piedmont Technical College
(864) 993-1955
jeanne@jeannestraveladventures.com
Included Meals Key
B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner
Extend your vacation with...
Optional 5 Days 4-night Ecuador Amazon Pre Extension
Rate: $1549 per person, double, land & air inclusive
10 Meals: 4 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 3 Dinners

Day 1: Prepare for your adventure
Arrive in Quito • Enjoy your afternoon and evening at leisure.

Day 2: Cross into the Amazon
Fly over the snowcapped peaks of the Andes to the Amazon Basin • Arrive at Puerto Francisco de Orellana, locally known as Coca, where you will be greeted by a naturalist guide • Embark on a two-hour journey by motorized canoe down the Rio Napo, one of the Amazon’s many tributaries, and into lush Yasuni National Park • Arrive at your lodge's private reserve • Native paddlers await with dugout canoes to carry you across Añangu Lake to your eco lodge • Along the way keep your eyes peeled for monkeys, herons, kingfishers, toucans and more • Relax and take in the beauty of your surroundings • Observe nocturnal wildlife and do some caiman spotting by boat, if you wish, after dinner. (B, L, D)

Day 3: As the jungle comes alive
Begin your day at sunrise • Take advantage of the cool morning hours when the animals are most active • Journey to the parrot clay licks for an unforgettable experience • Observe eleven species of parrots, parakeets and macaws while surrounded by lush flora • Later, embark upon a leisurely-paced hike to visit the Quichua community of Añangu and share in the villager’s daily activities • Then, explore “terra firma” on a nature hike along the creek before arriving at another parrot clay lick • Sample a picnic lunch alfresco and keep a sharp eye out for even more species of these colorful birds • Retire to the lodge for a relaxing dinner. (B, L, D)

Day 4: The exploits of an explorer
Start the day with a climb up the canopy tower • Experience sweeping 360 degree panoramic views, formerly reserved only for the birds, of the Rio Napo • Observe the wildlife that call the Amazon home from above the treetops and possibly glimpse the volcanoes of the Andes • Be on the lookout for colorful tanagers passing through the canopy, spider monkeys searching for fruit and more as the life of the forest canopy unfolds • After lunch at the lodge, set out on a scenic hike along primary forest to discover the interior • Spot lizards and the rare endemic golden-mantled tamarin monkey if you are lucky • Hop aboard a riverboat and navigate through murky waters teeming with anacondas and caimans • Be on the lookout for lounging sloths and playful otters along the shoreline • After a day filled with adventure, recount the magic of your trip over dinner with your fellow travelers. (B, L, D)

Day 5: Bid farewell to the Amazon
Head back to Coca by canoe • The river may reveal new sights and sounds as you say goodbye to the Amazon • Connect on to Quito to start your tour. (B)


AVAILABLE OPTIONS:
Cuzco
The Inca Terraces at Moray and the Sacred Valley Salt Mines • $75.00
Discover the enigmatic circular terraces at Moray and the amazing sight of the “Salineras” salt mines in the Sacred Valley during your half day adventure from Cuzco. Venture off the beaten path, journeying past quaint villages, spectacular Andean vistas and wide open fields of Peruvian crops. When you arrive at the Inca Terraces at Moray, explore each level of this artistically-designed Incan construction using the original Inca stone stairs! The concentric ring terraces and their meaning to the Incas will mesmerize you; these terraces were perhaps used as an experimental agricultural development site by the Incas; the rings are set deep into the earth so that each terrace reaches a different microclimate. Wind down the hillside towards Urubamba and behold the awe-inspiring Salineras salt pans! Behold thousands of individual ancient salt mines carved into the terraces cascading down the mountain. An underground spring fills the pools causing the salt to crystallize as the water evaporates. As a result, a white quilt work pattern covers the hillside. Since Incan times, families have passed down ownership of the pools and have made a living from this special place. A truly unique sight to behold, you will never forget your exploration of this remote and spectacularly unique phenomenon.
Lima
Peruvian Paso Horse Exhibition, Folklore Show, & Dinner • $100.00
Enjoy an exclusive outing where you’ll witness an exciting “Caballos de Paso” exhibition featuring the Peruvian national horse – a celebrated part of the country’s heritage. Known for their distinctive and elegant gait, these horses were originally brought from Spain during the Spanish conquest. The modern Peruvian Paso is an admired and revered part of national culture. Step back to the 18th century when you visit a beautiful ranch on the outskirts of Lima. Upon arrival, enjoy appetizers, cocktails and traditional music. Then, discover the grace and agility of these remarkable animals during the Peruvian Paso Horse Exhibition. These noble animals trot as if they are dancing. Marvel at the skills and finesse of the “chalanes” – horse trainers and riders. After the presentation, take a ride on these beautiful animals, guided by the chalanes, if you’d like! Next, enjoy a bountiful “Criollo” buffet dinner of traditional Peruvian foods on the hacienda’s patio and indulge in traditional desserts. This will be an unforgettable evening as you share in and celebrate the best of Peruvian culture!
Machu Picchu
Bird Walk • $65.00
Discover a bird-lover’s paradise when you visit the Machu Picchu Sanctuary – an area rich in biodiversity, due to varying microclimates between the Andes and the Amazon. An expert guide takes you on a nature walk that starts near by the hotel, on the road to Puente Ruinas, where you’ll spot some of the unique creatures found here in the midst of lush cloud-forest vegetation and the soothing sounds of the Vilcanota River. Over 400 species of birds and approximately 700 kinds of butterflies flock to this wild paradise where 200 species of orchids create a colorful canvas. The Torrent duck – the only duck in the world that can dive and swim in rushing rapids; the ornamental Andean Cock of the Rock – Peru’s national bird; the tame cinnamon flycatcher; the Giant Hummingbird; and the colorful Blue and Yellow Tanager are some of the delightful species waiting to be discovered and photographed on your tranquil nature exploration in the town of Aguas Calientes, just steps outside of the hotel.
Mystical Shaman Ceremony • $80.00
Enjoy a mystical experience that introduces you to the sacred beliefs and rituals of the ancient Peruvians, allowing to you further connect with the energy that attracts so many to Peru and Machu Picchu. Shamanism is the exploration and discovery of non-material worlds and states of mind; a way of connecting with the non-physical world which involves emotional and spiritual healing. Did you know that Ancient Peruvian beliefs hold that the Mother Earth – Pachamama – is sacred? Practices of giving offerings to Pachamama are still part of daily life for many Peruvians, traditions which were passed down from Incan beliefs. The coca plant, a sacred symbol of community spirit and respect, also plays an important role in ceremonies that are still performed today as coca leaves are believed to read the future. This enlightening experience offers you a glimpse into Peruvian history and traditions.
CANCELLATION WAIVER:

Worry-Free Cancellation
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:
The Galapagos Islands & Machu Picchu
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.
Arrival Day Suggestions
Should you have some extra time before your tour begins, you will find plenty to do in sunny Quito! This charming colonial city offers many interesting sights and numerous dining and shopping opportunities. Remember to drink plenty of water and pace yourself as you acclimate to the higher altitude. Surrounded by the volcanoes of the Andes, Quito offers spectacular views and is one of the highest capital cities in the world. If you arrive early, take a stroll through the quaint the Old Town and bustling New Town. The Old Town has preserved colonial structures and colorful plazas and is a great place to explore on foot during the day. Ascend nearby Panecillo Hill to see the Virgin Monument and enjoy panoramic views of volcanoes. Take a cable car up Pichincha Volcano for stunning views at 13,300 feet of the city and the Andes Mountains. Quito's New Town is a modern, upscale section of the city and home to the districts of La Mariscal and La Floresta, where most hotels and restaurants are located. Taxis are plentiful, inexpensive and the recommended mode of transport. Within two hours of the city you can access Cotopaxi National Park, cloud forest reserves, and the Papallacta Hot Springs Resort.
Clothing & Packing Tips
Sunscreen and bug spray are highly recommended for this tour. 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.
As you prepare to explore the Galapagos Islands, enjoy a casual dress style and be sure to pack comfortable walking shoes! Most walking ashore is over rocky lava terrain so plan ahead by packing tennis shoes, sneakers or walking that have rubber soles. To best navigate the ruins, you may wish to pack hiking shoes. It is recommended to bring clothing that may be worn in layers that may be added or removed as the temperature changes. Enjoy wearing comfortable, light-weight clothing. If you choose, you may opt for dressier attire for your welcome and farewell dinners. Since this tour involves some hiking excursions, pack a small waterproof backpack, shorts, long pants, both long and short-sleeved shirts, a wind breaker, bathing suit, a wetsuit for snorkeling in cold months (June through December), and a hat. Sunscreen and bug spray are highly recommended for this tour. Please read the itinerary as a guide only. Our route and program varies according to National Park policies and regulations, weather conditions, seasonal changes, safety guidelines, and wildlife. Flexibility is the key to the success of this expedition. The Expedition Staff will provide you with snorkeling gear (mask and snorkel, fins, floating device and net bag). Wet suits are also available for rent at an additional fee. The operation does not carry prescription masks. A "Dry landing" means that guests step from the dinghy onto rocks or a dock. A "Wet landing" means that the dinghy edges onto a sandy beach, guests step into knee-deep water and wade ashore. Every guest is provided a towel for wet landings. While onboard your cruise ship, enjoy a comfortable and casual dress style. Pack a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses for sun protection.
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.
Collette Foundation
The Collette Foundation and Peruvian Hearts are working together to support the Hogar de Mercedes de Jesus Molina Orphanage with a vitamin and nutrition program for the children and are funding structural improvements to the orphanage. Many travelers have inquired about in-kind donations. The Collette Foundation does not accept in-kind donations directly, however, if you would like to bring items the children are in need of, below is a list of suggestions: • Children’s books (in Spanish) • Crayons, pens, pencils • Shampoo, soap • Toothpaste, toothbrushes • Hair elastics and hair accessories • Toiletries • Children’s vitamins For more information about the Collette Foundation please visit www.collettefoundation.org.
Elevation
Highest elevation included on tour is approx. 11,000 feet above sea level, in Cuzco. Quito is 9,350 feet above sea level. Seven days of this tour are spent at 7,500 feet above sea level. If you have particular health concerns, we recommend you check with your doctor before departure for recommendations on how to alleviate the possible effects of altitude sickness.
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 (on the ship) and 2 local guides (on land) have 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 8 USD per day for the naturalist guide on the ship and 15 USD per person per day for the crew members. Please note that there will be two boxes onboard the ship where tips can be deposited - one for the naturalist guide(s) and one for all other crew members. Tips may also be paid by credit card. A gratuity of 2-3 USD is suggested per day, per local guide on land. Your tour manager will review customary tipping amounts and timing with you when you are on your tour.
Luggage
For your flight to or from the Galapagos Islands, there is a maximum of 20 kilos (approximately 44 lbs) for your checked bag.
Please consult with your scheduled airline as luggage fees and restrictions vary by carrier and destination. Due to the limited motorcoach capacity, one checked luggage (62 inches in length, height and width; weight not to exceed 23kg/50lbs) is allowed on tour. We also encourage just one carry-on bag per individual (for carrying items that might be needed during the day’s sightseeing excursions or camera/video equipment). Dimensions for carry-ons should not exceed 17" x 12" x 10", allowing it to fit under the seat or in the overhead rack of most motor coaches. 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 the 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
Most meals are included as indicated in your document itinerary. Guests with special dietary requirements must advise their travel counselor 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. Please be advised that the average cost of meals (not inclusive of tax and gratuity) that are not included in your tour are as follows: breakfast 5 to 10 USD, lunch 10 to 15 USD and dinner 15 to 20 USD. While onboard ship, all meals are included. Beverages included with your meals onboard ship are coffee, tea and water. It is recommended to drink distilled or bottled water at all times in Ecuador and Peru and be cautious if choosing to consume raw produce without peels/skin. Your Tour Manager will review other recommendations at the beginning of your tour.
Miscellaneous
Climate Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands are located on the Equator. The tropical heat, however, is tempered by Pacific breezes. There are two seasons in the islands: the rainy, hot season from December to June when humidity is high and average temperatures are in the 80s F (26°-30° C). There may be occasional showers, but the days are generally hot and sunny. From June to November, you can expect cool winds, occasionally bringing with them a light misty-type drizzle called "garúa." Temperatures average in the 70s F (20°-24° C) during the day and lower at night. SHIP INFORMATION Ship Type: Motor Vessel Category: Deluxe Capacity: 110 passengers Tonnage: 2700 tons Passenger decks: 5 Length: 300 feet Staff and Crew: 50 crew members plus 6 bilingual naturalist guides and one physician Width: 47 feet Cruising Speed: 14 - 19 knots All safety and fire prevention measures have been implemented on the M/V GALAPAGOS LEGEND. There is a resident physician aboard, and life jackets are mandatory for all "panga" rides (outboard motorized Zodiacs). Pace and Physical Demands It is your responsibility to advise Explorations, prior to the tour departure, of any medical condition that might limit your participation in group activities or of any special dietary requirements. Please note that not all dietary requirements can be accommodated on tour. 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 standing for up to two hours at outdoor sites while listening to a guide. Excursions may also involve several hours away from restroom facilities. Those prone to seasickness should ask their doctor about prescription and non-prescription treatments that are available.
Name Badges
Explorations provides name badges to our travelers in order to facilitate conversation among fellow travelers. The name badge also ensures that an Explorations representative can easily recognize you, especially at airports upon arrival.
Reading List
Interested in reading about your destination before you depart? We have 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.longitudebooks.com/find/d/11791/r/CV/mcms.html
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
Ecuador is on Eastern Standard Time and the Galapagos Islands are 1 hour behind Eastern Standard Time. Peru is one hour behind EST.
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. This 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.