Below are a few “rules for the road” – some basic guidelines that will help us get the most out of our journey

• Name Tag: Once you receive your name tag, please wear it at all group events; it helps trip staff and other travelers to get to know each other. Let me know if you lose yours and I will make you a new one.

• Punctuality: It is essential that everyone be punctual and pay attention to departure times. All excursions are optional, so if you do not appear by the departure time announced to the group, we will assume you have decided not to join us.

• Masks: Please wear your mask whenever we are in a group setting indoors, including on board the coaches and at lectures. Wash your hands often and bring a hand-sanitizer and an extra mask with you each day.

• Schedule: During our journey there will undoubtedly be changes to the itinerary. Whenever a change is made it is to adjust to circumstances or to take advantage of new opportunities. The trip staff will keep you informed of our schedule by making announcements at lectures or at the last group event of the day. If you have any questions about the schedule, please contact me or any of the staff.

• Health/Safety: Here is a list of suggested items you should bring with you for daily touring: listening devices, masks, hand sanitizer, hat, reusable water bottle (bottled water will not be provided on the coach), a jacket. Weather can be unpredictable so you will be glad to have layers with you each day. Please leave all valuables (extra cash, passports, etc.) in your room safe or in a locked suitcase in your room.

• Gratuities: All gratuities for group events such as meals, porterage, guides, etc., are included in the program cost. You should only need money for personal expenses, such as souvenirs.

• Beverages: Remember to bring your reusable water bottle or bladder with you each day, to help cut down on single-use plastic. You can fill it up in from the tap or at breakfast in the morning and top it off at lunch. Select wine at lunches and dinners is included. Should you wish to enjoy premium bottles of wine or additional beverages or cocktails at the bar, please pay for this on your own.

• Meals: If you have any specific dietary concerns that were not shared with our office, please let me know right away as we have worked with the restaurants in advance and any adjustments must be made immediately.

• Contacts: If you should find yourself accidently separated from the group and/or require assistance, please remain in the location (in town or on the trail) where you last saw the group and one of our tour staff will return to find you. If you are on the trail and nature calls, please let the person nearest you know of your plan. If you are carrying a cell phone, please text or call me/Emily Casperson or Peter Watson. You may find it prudent to copy the Contact details with the staff mobile numbers and our hotel details into your phone’s notes.

• Suggested items to bring each day: Wear your good hiking shoes and bring your listening device, rain gear, refillable water bottle or bladder, hat, sunglasses, walking sticks (if you use them), and extra pair of socks and an additional layer. On most days you may leave things you do not need on the bus while we are walking/touring.