Thank you for choosing to travel with UncleSam Holidays
We understand how busy life can be, so the following information is designed to help you prepare for your trip and ensure an effortless and enjoyable travel experience. You will find general information regarding your journey, travel documents and airport protocol, as well as some top tips from our expert Travel Manager to help you travel with real ease.
Before you set out on your grand adventure, it’s important to brush up on some vital travel information that will help you to prepare for the journey ahead. From visa requirements, packing tips and on-trip safety, these insights will ensure a seamless and enjoyable travel experience.
Before I book
Will I travel with people from other countries?
The beauty of taking a guided holiday with us is you’ll have the opportunity to meet and travel with people from all over the globe.
UncleSam Holidays provide private and group tour it's completely depend on you which category you are choose. if you are choosing a group tour there is maximum 40 guests.
Each itinerary offers the perfect balance of downtime and discoveries. We also give you the opportunity to tailor your trip with Optional Experiences.
We pride ourselves on having the finest fleet of fuel-efficient, fully air-conditioned coaches – all with reclining seats and on-board restrooms. The high vantage point from your coach’s window means you can take in all the glorious scenery, whether it’s a vast rural landscape or an urban city center.
We select our hotels for their quality, impeccable service and comfort, with the majority of them having air-conditioning. Few hotels don't have air conditioning due to the colder climate.
Our Travel Guide come from a variety of backgrounds but they all share a passion for travel. These experienced professionals show you what the guidebooks can’t – a true insider’s perspective of each destination. Each Travel Guide have at least five years’ experience under their belt.
We take the hassle out of booking a group holiday – and we offer some great discounts for five or more people. Groups of five to eight people will receive 5% off the land-only part of their trip and larger groups will save even more.
UncleSam Holidays is a not-for-profit organisation established in 2011. So far, UncleSam Holidays work hard to help underprivileged communities and support sustainable tourism around the world.
If you prefer the privacy of your own room, you can opt for our single supplement. The cost will depend on your trip and can be found in the pricing section of the itinerary. On many of our trips we offer discounts on the standard single supplement. If you’d rather not incur the additional expense, consider our single traveller room option.
We accept credit/debit card payments (Visa, MasterCard, American Express) and RTGS, NEFT .
We can accommodate guests who are vegetarian and can assist with diabetic, gluten-free and other medically-recommended diets. Please advise us at time of booking. Unfortunately, we’re unable to supply meals in accordance with strict religious requirements.
Before I go
Are airport transfers included?
Transfers will depend on the trip you choose and vary amongst destinations. In general, if you are joining or departing your guided holiday on the first or last day, return transfers between the airport and hotel are included (excludes itineraries starting and/or ending in London). You’ll find specific information on your itinerary page.
We strongly recommend that all guests have a travel insurance policy to ensure your peace of mind before and while travelling. It's important that you protect yourself in case of trip cancellations, an interruption for any reason, baggage delays or loss of baggage and medical expenses.
Passports are needed when travelling outside of your home country. Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of your trip.
You are responsible for obtaining all necessary visas prior to the departure of your guided holiday. Depending on your nationality, you may need visas to enter certain countries included on your trip. Please note that obtaining visas can take up to six weeks prior to your departure. It is strongly advised that you consult your Travel Agent and the local Consulate or Embassy of the country you are visiting well in advance to determine which visas they require and how to obtain them.
We will be able to personalise your trip based on your interests, dietary and rooming preferences.
- Your trip will be seamless, from hotel check-ins to passports and security checks.
- We will have your emergency contact details on file in the unlikely case we’ll ever need them.
- View your itinerary and trip details day- by-day and check all the relevant travel and booking details.
- Connect with fellow guests and the Travel Manager, prior to and during the trip.
- Send updates to social networks.
- Receive daily trip news and itinerary updates from your Travel Manager.
Once you booked your trip, you’ll be receive your travel documents approximately 3 to 4 day prior to departure on your e-mail, and you can chat with your Travel Manager.
You can bring one suitcase per person and weight not exceeding 23 kg (50 lbs) due to the limited space on the coach. You can also bring one piece of hand luggage, provided it is small enough to take on the coach and does not have telescopic handles.
All luggage handling is provided at no extra charge. One suitcase per person will be brought to your hotel room.
We’ll check you in, look after your luggage and take care of all hotel porterage, tips and gratuities – whether it is for restaurant staff, chambermaids or porters. Please note that Travel Manager and Drivers gratuities are not included in the trip cost. You do have the option to add pre-paid gratuities on booking.
Yes, in most circumstances you’re able to travel with a wheelchair on your trip, as long as you’re travelling with someone who’s willing to provide personal assistance. Please advise us at the time of booking if you plan to bring a wheelchair to ensure we can meet your requirements.
This will depend on not only your personal preference, but the destinations you’re visiting and the time of year you’ll be travelling. We’d recommend bringing at least one smart outfit for special evenings.
This will depend on the destinations you are travelling and your personal health circumstances. Be sure to speak to your Travel Agent or doctor to find out if vaccinations are required. If you are taking medication or suffer from any form of illness, ensure you have an adequate supply of medication before departing for your holiday.
On the road
What are Optional Experiences and when can I book them?
We realise that everyone likes some time to themselves, which is why we’ve left free time on all of our itineraries. If you want to get the most out of your destination, our Optional Experiences let you tailor your trip. Your Travel Manager will tell you about all of the Optional Experiences available on the first day of your trip. Payment can be made by credit card or cash.
Electrical plugs and outlets differ throughout the world. We recommend bringing a universal travel adaptor that’s suitable for the countries you are travelling to.
Most hotels do offer a laundry service and in some cities Laundromats are also available. However, it’s sensible to try and pack enough clothing to avoid having to do laundry, as it can sometimes be costly or inconvenient.
Yes, your Travel Manager will implement a seat rotation system, whereby all guests will rotate their seats on the coach daily. This allows for everyone to experience the spectacular views from different seats, and you’ll have a better opportunity to get to know your fellow travellers.
Your Travel Manager will assist you with a doctor’s visit or hospitalisation should you require. We strongly advise you to purchase your travel insurance.
We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a trip, including experiences such as missed meals or sightseeing.
There is a no smoking policy when on board the coach. We do, however, make plenty of comfort stops.
- Here is a glossary of some common terms used in our itineraries:
- “Visit”: In-depth sightseeing with a Local Specialist or Travel Manager, which includes fast-track entry (where applicable).
- “View”: A brief stop to enjoy the sights and take some photos.
- “See”: Observe sights while passing by on your coach, cruise or train.
- “Sightseeing trip”: A local city guide will accompany you on a trip of a city or site.
- “Orientation trip”: Places of interest are pointed out, allowing you to go and explore them on your own.
- “Why not see” or “perhaps enjoy”: These phrases refer to optional excursions not included in the trip package, but are available for an additional fee.
- “Time to explore” and “discover”: Free time on your own.
- “A day to relax”: No planned activities; time for optional excursions or other independent activities.
