How We Travel

Frequently Asked Questions

How long has your company been in business?

Officially we have been in the tour business since 1995, but we have been traveling for 20 years, eating up all we can of each destination and storing the information to be shared with a group. Our specialty is South East Asia and other destinations off the beaten path. The world is so big and wonderfully broad that we are currently working to expand our journeys to other locales.

What is the group size for a trip?

We keep our groups small (10-15 people) to allow for a more personal experience. This allows for exceptional support and spontaneity as well as lots of extra touches!

What is the general profile of your participants?

We do not have a specific profile. The diversity of our groups is what makes them so unique. But if I were to list the character traits of our travelers, I would say they are curious, eager for and open to new experiences, exploratory and young at heart.

What's included in the price and what additional expenses are there?

Just about everything, except food and shopping, is included in the program price once you step off the plane.* We do not make the trips all-inclusive because we find eating to be much too fun to regulate. We share some meals that we think are too good to miss and then send individuals off to favorite haunts according to their tastes and likes. From the moment you arrive to the time of your departure, we cater to your every need.

Air transportation to the destination is not included in the price. We have a fabulous air specialist that can make all your arrangements for you.

*Tour price does not include tips to drivers and guides, items of a personal nature, departure taxes, airfare from USA, beverages with included meals, and visa fees.

What is the food like?

Ahhhhh, eating overseas! Whether you are a gourmet or a meat-and-potato type, there are places to accommodate you. Although we encourage travelers to eat local (and we point out all our favorites), there are always options. We have had vegetarians and people on raw food diets travel with us and get their needs met.

What type of accommodations are provided?

Accommodations play a critical role in the enjoyment of a trip. We use locally owned facilities as often as possible. Our accommodations reflect the trip itself. Our cultural safaris are geared toward village life and thus we stay in quaint bungalows and inns. When we do the spa option, we pamper, pamper, pamper.

Accommodations are based on double occupancy with twin beds unless a double bed is requested. Singles are available for an additional cost. To date all accommodations have private baths.

What training do the guides have?

First and foremost, we hand pick our guides based on their personality and leadership skills. Each guide has traveled with us to the destination and has a good regional knowledge of the destination. They are with you from beginning to end to insure a smooth and rewarding experience. For all tours in country we have local guides to offer the insight necessary to fully appreciate the history and culture.

How do you rate the ability level for your trips? Do we all have to do the same activity?

Our activities are selected for their appeal to people of various levels of ability. We've had travelers from age 22 to 77, and everything in between. For the yoga retreats, our instructors are chosen for their ability to work with varying levels of yoga.

What is your cancellation and refund policy?

A $300 nonrefundable deposit is required to reserve your spot on one of our tours. Four months prior to departure an additional $500 is due. Two months prior to departure the remaining balance is due. After this date (two months prior), there are no refunds. All prices are quoted for cash or checks. Credit cards add three percent to the tour price.

Do you have any references I can contact for your company and/or this trip?

Absolutely! This is a great way to learn about our journeys. Knowing my past travelers, they will give you the FULL scoop! Call us at 585.975.9625 or email us with a request for references. We will get you a list of names and numbers.

What is your commitment to responsible tourism or ecotourism?

We strive to have the least amount of negative impact on the host population and the environment. Our goal is to tread lightly, leaving smiles in our path. Whenever we can shift the itinerary to be more eco-friendly we do so. For example, we visit an elephant sanctuary (which supports the longevity and health of the animals) in Thailand rather than the elephant camps.

We encourage guests to use recycled products and biodegradable materials. We educate our guests about the best ways to minimize their impact. We encourage eating locally, dressing appropriately, learning a little of the language. Our accommodations are often family run, the activities benefiting the local people. Additionally we are working on creating journeys that include volunteer work in the destination country.

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Our Approach

Our Philosophy

  • be present
  • be spontaneous
  • be fully engaged
  • find your passion
  • get involved
  • have fun