FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
FLIGHTS & AIRPORTS
Can I request a specific seat on the plane?
Yes, you can and we will do our best to accommodate you. However, please know that seating requests under group reservations are rarely granted by the airline. If the request is not granted, we will ask that it be made directly to the airline at the ticket counter on the day of departure. Passengers may also exchange seats with other group members once on the plane. If passengers are not flexible concerning their seat assignment, they are advised to purchase the land-only package and secure their own preferred air arrangements.
Can I upgrade my seats on the plane?
Seats under the group air reservation are economy seats and cannot be upgraded. Passengers wishing an upgrade are advised to purchase the land-only package and secure their own preferred air arrangements.
Why does the price say “estimated airline taxes and surcharges”? What does that mean?
For group reservations, the airlines divide the total ticket price in two: a fixed amount which is the airfare and a variable amount which is the air taxes and surcharges. We give the current amount for these air taxes and surcharges at the time the trip information is initially published. Typically this amount does not change before ticketing the group reservation.
Will there be someone to greet me at the arrival airport?
On the day of arrival, there will be a representative to greet the group at the arrival airport. This representative will meet the group outside the airport Customs, and will be identified by a sign with the group name and the Catholic Heritage Tours logo. They will meet both the passengers traveling with the group air reservation and those passengers traveling on an independent flight itinerary (if they arrive at the rendezvous place and time).
Can I arrange for my own plane ticket so I can use miles, get a better schedule or upgrade seats?
Absolutely. You may choose the land-only package and secure your own airfare. In this case, you will be responsible for meeting the group at the assigned place and time. Even in the case of a delayed or canceled flight, the rest of the group must proceed with the scheduled airport transfer. If a land-only passenger is late, they will be fully responsible for catching up with the group.
Will I need a passport and/or visa?
A valid passport with expiration date at least 6 months after traveling dates is required for all participants.
As far as visas, typically US citizens do not require a tourist visa for our destinations. This will be specified in the particular trip’s terms and conditions. Other nationalities will need to contact the proper embassy or consulate.
Passports and visas are the passengers’ responsibility.
PRICES & PAYMENTS
Is my deposit refundable?
No, the deposit is non-refundable.
If the trip does not take place due to lack of participants, will I get my deposit back?
Yes, if Catholic Heritage Tours cancels the trip due to lack of participants, it will refund all monies paid to Catholic Heritage Tours for the scheduled trip, with the exception of airline cancellation fees, if any.
When will I know whether or not the group is formed and the pilgrimage will take place?
Each pilgrimage has a registration deadline, by which date we will know if the pilgrimage has enough passengers. At this time, if there are not enough participants to form the group we will notify those who have registered and refund their deposits. If the group has enough passengers, we will simply send a communication requesting the final payment.
Can I make partial payments between my deposit date and the final payment date?
Yes. We will keep track of all your payments and you will receive a final balance statement when the final payment is due. However, we do not have a payment plan in place, so this arrangement relies completely on the initiative of the traveler.
Can the price change?
The prices are based on the exchange rate stated in the terms and conditions listed on the brochure and back of the registration form. Prices are also based on current costs of services included in the itinerary and on a certain number of passengers; this number of passengers is also listed in the trip’s terms and conditions. In the event of less than the minimum number of passengers, change in currency conversion rates or amendments in local government taxes, we reserve the right to adjust the price accordingly.
Also, the air taxes and surcharges for the group airfare may fluctuate until the group tickets are purchased. Therefore, on the pilgrimage brochure we give an estimate amount for these air taxes and surcharges.
We will state the final pilgrimage price and your due amount in a letter that we send to registered passengers approximately two weeks before final payment is due.
CANCELLATION
If the trip does not take place due to lack of participants, will I get my deposit back?
Yes, if Catholic Heritage Tours cancels the trip due to lack of participants, it will refund all monies paid to Catholic Heritage Tours for the scheduled trip.
If the trip does not take place due to prohibitive travel conditions/restrictions, will I get my trip deposit or final payment back?
If 90 days before travel, there are prohibitive travel conditions/restrictions, we will cancel the scheduled pilgrimage and will refund all deposits paid to Catholic Heritage Tours for that particular trip.
If it is within 90 days of travel and final trip payments have been made to Catholic Heritage Tours and we must cancel the trip due to prohibitive travel conditions/restrictions, passengers will need to abide by the cancellation policies of the reserved airline, hotels, and land services. Catholic Heritage Tours would refund as much monies as we ourselves get back from our suppliers.
There is no additional liability. Catholic Heritage Tours cannot assume responsibility for any additional cost or any fees relating to the issuance and/or cancellations of individual air tickets, travel insurance or other arrangements made by passengers for their trip.
Would travel insurance cover me in case my pilgrimage is cancelled?
We strongly recommend all passengers to purchase travel insurance. However, different policies offer different coverage. Therefore, we ask that passengers contact the travel insurance company directly to make sure your questions are answered and that you purchase a policy that covers your needs.
Also, please be aware that once purchased, your travel insurance premium may not be refunded; instead, you may simply receive a voucher to use the premium for a future trip. Be sure to know the insurance terms and conditions before you purchase.
You can also read more details below in the Travel Insurance section.
LUGGAGE
How many pieces of luggage can I take?
During the pilgrimage, porterage for one suitcase is included at the hotels. This large suitcase will be stowed under the motor-coach during the pilgrimage. Most airlines allow one free checked suitcase on international flights; the weight should not exceed 50 lbs. nor 62 linear inches (L+W+H). Please check the airline’s website for current luggage restrictions. A carry-on is also allowed during the pilgrimage, but porterage is not included.
Do I have to pick up my checked luggage in between flight connections on the first day of the trip?
No. At the airport ticket counter on the day of departure, you will check your luggage all the way to your final destination. The first country to be entered is where you will usually go through immigration and very rarely through customs. Customs are usually at your final destination, immediately after the baggage claim area. (An exception to this question is if you have two separate plane tickets with different airlines.)
PHYSICAL HEALTH & FITNESS
Is there an age minimum or an age limit for the travelers?
Our journeys are designed for adult travelers who will appreciate the visited sites and adhere to the group’s spirit. Children under 10 years of age are not recommended to travel with the group. Adults traveling with minors are solely responsible for their behavior and monitoring them throughout the trip.
As far as an age limit, there isn’t one. However, a traveler’s physical condition should be healthy and active enough to keep up with the group’s pace, to climb several stairs independently, and to walk and stand for a good part of the day. For their safety, passengers 80 years of age and older are required to be accompanied by a qualified and physically able travel companion who is capable of and is completely responsible for providing assistance.
Will there be a lot of walking?
Yes, since this is a pilgrimage, there is daily walking and standing, and depending on the itinerary some days may be intense. Sometimes walking is up or down slopes, and at times sidewalks and terrain will be uneven. We strongly recommend preparing oneself by walking before the trip, building up to at least 2-3 miles per day.
What if I have a bit of trouble walking?
If you need assistance in walking or climbing, please have your travel companion assist you, since there will be no paid help available. You may want to consider bringing a light, folding stool.
Please note that our trips are not wheelchair or motorized scooter accessible. Therefore, our trips are not for individuals with walking difficulties or mobility issues. Travelers must be able to climb several stairs, since many of the visited places have no other access. Catholic Heritage Tours cannot provide individual assistance to any participant.
What if I cannot keep up with the group?
A certain pace must be kept in order to cover the scheduled sightseeing. Out of courtesy for the other group members, each participant is responsible for traveling at the group pace; the group will not wait for or assist pilgrims who cannot keep up. You may choose not to participate in parts of the sightseeing; however, there is no refund or compensation for missed sightseeing.
DURING THE JOURNEY
Who should I contact in case of questions or requests during the trip?
During the trip, the Tour Escort will be your “guardian angel” and will accompany the group throughout the entire trip. They will be there to solve any requests or difficulties with luggage, hotel rooms, food service, itinerary conflicts, illness, etc. They can also give you insight on the visited places: they can help you find a good restaurant, shopping stores, and give you other tips. They should also be the ones to know if a group member will separate from the group at any given time.
Is there a dress code during the trip?
There is no specific dress code. However, during the scheduled sightseeing for each day, travelers are asked to wear appropriate clothing to enter the churches: that is, clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. Also, make sure you take comfortable shoes that have thick enough soles for walking on rough terrain.
How can I get in touch with my family during the trip?
Having a cell phone with you during your trip can be useful for you to contact or be contacted. If you would like to take your cell phone, we recommend that you contact your cell phone service provider and ask how you can use your phone in the visited country(ies) and what their rates are.
If you would rather not take a cell phone, we recommend that you purchase a calling card here in the US, call home from the hotel, and ask them to call you back at the hotel.
Will there be assigned seats on the motor-coach?
No. The only reserved seats on the motor-coach will be the ones in the front for the group leader(s), the priest(s) and the tour escort because the microphone is located in the front and also to ensure easy communication between them. The remaining seats are to be filled on a first come, first served basis daily.
Is there a bathroom on the motor-coach?
Most tour motor-coaches offer a bathroom, however they are strictly for emergencies. The motor-coach will make frequent stops while driving from one city to another. By law, the motor-coach driver is obligated to stop every so often. The group members will be notified of these stops by the Tour Escort.
Do I have to be with the group at all times?
There will be times when you will not be obligated to accompany the group on the scheduled activities. If there is something else you would like to do and it is possible, please make sure you notify tour escort and group leader. Also make sure that you keep with you at all times the hotel and emergency contact numbers. If you leave the group, you will be responsible for your own transportation to rejoin the group.
If I do not attend an included meal or activity , will I be reimbursed?
No, there is no reimbursement or compensation for missed meals or scheduled activities during the trip.
Is it mandatory to attend Mass?
No, it is not mandatory. The Masses scheduled will depend on the pilgrimage chaplain. We strive to arrange for Mass at one of the visited shrines and therefore all scheduled events for the day are centered around the Mass time.
What will the weather be like?
In the information booklet you receive approximately two weeks prior to departure, we will state the average temperatures for the time of year for the country(ies) you will visit, and of course you can check into that yourself, online. You will most likely encounter some rainy days. We advise for you to carry an umbrella or raincoat with you.
Will people speak English?
In most of the larger cities, people will speak some English.
ROOMING & ACCOMMODATIONS
What kind of hotels are used?
Accommodations are typically in first-class hotels. (In the Holy Land they may also be superior religious guesthouses.) Each room offers a private bathroom with amenities.
Will the hotels have amenities like hair dryer, iron, and laundry service?
Most hotels offer hair dryers, but some hotels in small towns or some religious guesthouses do not offer them in the room.
Hotels do not offer an iron in the room. Some hotels may have them available if you request them. We recommend that you take your own travel-size iron (make sure you pack an adaptor), or bring a “wrinkle-remover” spray, or pack wrinkle-resistant clothes.
Some of the hotels will have laundry service available. However, to request this service, you must be spending at least two nights at that hotel. Make sure you know and agree to the fees.
What do double and single occupancy mean?
Rooms in double occupancy are for two people to share; they have two twin beds or one double bed. Rooms in single occupancy have a single bed and are for one person to occupy; a “single supplement fee” is added for single occupancy rooms.
What if I do not have a roommate, but want to share a room in order to avoid the single supplement fee?
You may register in double occupancy and ask for a roommate, and we will do our best to assign one. However, if we cannot find a roommate, we will ask if you would like to pay the single supplement fee.
What happens if I do not get along with my assigned roommate?
For passengers who were assigned a roommate to share a twin room, and who did not know each other prior to the trip, if both parties decide not to room together during the trip, please consult your Tour Escort. It may be possible to accommodate each of you in a single room if available; please note that there would be an extra charge.
Will there be free WiFi? Can I bring my laptop?
Yes, you can bring your laptop if you wish. Typically your hotel room will have free WiFi. In the smaller hotels, there may be a lobby where you can connect to the internet.
MEALS, TIPS & EXPENSES
I see that lunches are not included. Where will I eat lunch and how much will it cost?
Our itineraries typically include all breakfasts and most dinners (please refer to your particular pilgrimage). Lunches are not included; however, there will be plenty of options. The prices will vary from a simple sandwich meal for approximately $12 to a sit down lunch of $15-$20 per person. Dinner will cost approximately $25-$30 per person.
Can I drink tap water at the hotels? Will there be bottled water for purchase?
Usually you can drink the tap water at the hotels, or you can choose to buy bottled water. Bottled water is not included on the pilgrimage. However, many times the motor-coach driver will have bottled water for sale in the motor-coach. Or you can buy several at the store for a lower price.
Are the tips included?
The pilgrimage price includes tips for luggage porterage at the hotels and for the included meals only. It does not include the tips for the tour escort, the driver, and the local guides. Gratuities for the tour escort, driver, and local guides count as part of their earnings and are expected. We also recommend a stipend to each of the churches where Mass is celebrated, as well as a stipend to the pilgrimage chaplain in thanksgiving for celebrating Mass. Suggested amounts for tipping are given with your final travel documents.
Should I tip the waiter when the meal is included?
The meals listed in the itinerary of the trip include already tips for the service. However, if you feel the service was very good and you would like to give them a tip, you may certainly do so.
Will I need to pay to use a restaurant restroom or public restroom?
Depending on the place, a small fee may be requested to use the bathroom. Alternatively, you can have a beverage at a café and use their bathroom without charge.
What is the best way to pay for purchases and to exchange money?
We advise you to pay as many purchases as you can with a credit card; this way you do not carry too much cash with you, and also credit cards tend to give you the best exchange rate.
It is necessary to contact your credit card supplier before traveling to let them know you will be making transactions from another country. It is important that prior to your trip your credit card supplier provides you with a PIN number to withdraw money from the ATM machines. Without the PIN number you will not be able to take money out of ATM machines.
Street vendors and some smaller establishments may only accept cash. To obtain cash, you can withdraw from an ATM machine during your trip or you may exchange money at the airport. For your convenience and better exchange rates, including fees, we recommend withdrawing from an ATM machine when cash is necessary. Please contact your credit card company for full details.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
I see that travel insurance is not included in the trip price. Should I purchase it?
Travel insurance is not included in the trip price and we strongly recommend it.
If a passenger does not purchase any travel insurance, they will be subject to Catholic Heritage Tours’ Cancellation Penalties, which are listed under the trip’s Terms and Conditions, and which cannot be waived for any reason. Passengers would lose part or all of their trip investment if they were to cancel. Also, passengers will not be reimbursed for expenses related to trip delay, illness or accident, etc. during the trip.
Therefore, we strongly recommend travel insurance to protect your investment in case of trip cancellation/ interruption and to help cover expenses while you travel in case of trip delay, baggage delay/loss, accident, sickness, etc.
If I have paid in full and must cancel my trip, will I be refunded?
On the terms and conditions section on our registration forms, there is a section entitled “Cancellation Penalties.” This section states how much of the trip cost Catholic Heritage Tours would reimburse depending on the date of cancellation. However, if you have purchased the trip cancellation and interruption insurance, you may be eligible for a refund by the travel insurance company, if your reason for cancellation is one of the covered unforeseen circumstances (mainly for health reasons of the traveler or an immediate family member), and as long as sufficient documentation is provided to the insurance company for the claim.
When should I purchase travel insurance?
If you do not have a pre-existing medical condition or do not want to buy the additional premium for cancellation for any reason, we advise you not to purchase travel insurance until you make your final trip payment. This is because once purchased, your insurance premium may not be refunded; instead, you may simply receive a voucher to use the premium for a future trip.
If you do have a pre-existing medical condition or want the additional cancellation for any reason, please note that for it to be covered, travel insurance must typically be purchased within 15 days of your initial trip deposit.
Be sure to know the insurance terms and conditions before you purchase.
I’ve heard of a cancel-for-any-reason insurance. how does it work?
The cancel-for-any-reason (CFAR) travel insurance is typically an optional upgrade to an existing travel insurance plan. It may allow travelers to cancel their trip for any reason that is not otherwise covered in their base plan, provided they cancel their trip more than 48 hours before their departure date. Travelers are insured for a percentage of the prepaid, forfeited, non-refundable payments or deposits for the insured trip up to the maximum limit. Usually, the CFAR coverage must purchased within 15 days of the initial trip deposit, and the full cost of all non-refundable, prepaid trip arrangements must be insured at the time of purchase.
Please be sure to know all the terms and conditions of the CFAR travel insurance before buying.
To buy travel insurance, please contact us or visit our Travel Insurance page.
