FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
We realize that this may be the first time you have considered using a travel advisor. Your interest in the services of Golden Voyage Travel, LLC is greatly appreciated. You may have questions about the process, why you should work with a travel advisor and other things you need to consider before making your decision. We’ve created a list of basic questions that we have encountered over the years and their corresponding answers. If you want to speak with someone from our office, great!! We’d love to speak with you directly and answer all of your questions. Just give us a call or schedule an appointment.
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A. We definitely know that you can book your own travel; however, here are some things to consider. We have built relationships with our suppliers over the years. This often results in our clients receiving special privileges, including category upgrades, gifts, free amenities, etc. More importantly, if you experience any issues while traveling, you have a dedicated advocate to handle your situation personally. With our 24/7 In-Travel Emergency Hotline, you never have to worry about sitting on hold for hours waiting on the “next available agent.” You will immediately reach a GVT team member.
A. Actually, no it does not. While we charge a non-refundable, good faith planning fee for our individual vacation packages, that planning fee is applied towards your balance if you book your travel within 14 days of receiving your proposal.
A. If you are traveling to a destination that is not within the United States or is not a U.S. Territory, you need a passport. When it comes to cruising, there are factors that come into play. If you are a U.S. citizen, and you sail on a cruise that begins and ends at the same U.S. port, you do not need a passport. Your birth certificate and government-issued ID are sufficient. Even in this case, however, we recommend that you get a passport. If you are stranded outside U.S. borders, you will need a passport to return home.
A. Although you are not required to purchase travel insurance, it is absolutely recommended. In most instances, even if you have health insurance through your employer or some other source, that coverage does not extend to other countries. If you need medical attention, you will have to pay out of pocket and may not be allowed to leave until you do. Other coverages can include reimbursement for trip delay or interruption, lost luggage, missed flights, etc. Ask one of our team members about coverage during the planning process.
A. There are several steps involved in planning a destination wedding. The average amount of time needed from the initial consultation to the final wedding date is at least 1 to 1-1/2 years.
A. We have contractual obligations with our tour operators. Because of those obligations, we must make all payments non-refundable. We strongly encourage you to purchase travel protection to cover any losses you may incur. We are happy to recommend some options for you to consider.
A. Yes, you may. We are always happy to accommodate additional travelers for our escorted tours. As for our affinity groups, the terms of participation will be based on the preferences of the group leader(s).
A. Absolutely!! We have deposits as low as $50.00 per person and convenient payment plans to fit every schedule. You are expected to make all payments on time or communicate with our payment team. Final payments are due no less than 30-60 days before departure, depending on the supplier. If you book travel after the final payment date, full payment will be required at the time of booking.
A. You have several options. One option is to find a replacement for your travel companion. If that is not possible, you may be required to pay more for a single occupancy reservation. For our escorted tours, single matching is available. If none of these options works for you, you may cancel your reservation. There will be a cancellation fee assessed.
A. Some places have gratuities included in the pricing, and it is not necessary to tip the staff. In certain cases, like cruises, gratuities are not included in the price. You can prepay your gratuities or pay on the ship. In both cases, if there is someone you believe has provided exceptional service to you, a little extra never hurts. You should always be prepared to tip your driver.
A. A passport card may be used to cross the border by land from the United States to Canada or Mexico. You may also use it for closed-loop cruises–cruises and begin and end at the same U.S. port. A passport card cannot be used for flying or for cruises that are not closed-looped. For these trips, you must have a valid passport.
A. These travel acronyms mean: All-Inclusive (AI), European Plan (EP) and Adult-Only (AO). All-Inclusive plans include food, drinks, snacks and many activities. European Plan does not include anything. All costs are borne by the traveler. Adult-Only refers to accommodations that are reserved for adults over the age of 18.
A. Many cruise lines may allow you to bring one case of water, a 12-pack of canned sodas and up to two bottles of wine. It’s best to check with the cruise line as to what their policies are and prepare accordingly.
A. The amount you bring is totally up to you. On average, you may want to consider bringing $50-$150 per day. You should also make sure you have small bills for tipping.
A. Cards with Visa and Mastercard logos are usually accepted worldwide. American Express is also widely accepted. You should be prepared to incur foreign currency charges for using your card(s) outside the United States. Make sure you alert your bank to your travel plans. You don’t want to have your privileges suspended because your bank suspects fraud.
A. There are so many apps available to travelers these days. Some of the best, most reliable apps are WhatsApp, Google Duo, Facebook and Instagram Messenger. All you need is an internet connection, and you’re all set.
A. Google Translate is a great app that allows you to speak your statement in English and have it translated into the language of the country you are visiting.
A. Most countries have a policy that your passport needs to be valid 3-6 months after your return. To ensure that you don’t face any issues with traveling, it is recommended that you begin the renewal process at least one year prior to the expiration date.