Welcome to the FAQ section of Reformation Tours. These should answer 95% of your questions.

If not....check out our Terms and Conditions or our General Travel Information.

Rememer we're here to help, so you can either
e-mail us or call our client service department at
1-800-303-5534

Group Travel

Q: Why should I do Christian travel with a group, rather than on my own?
Q: What are the disadvantages of individual travel?
Q: What is group travel?
Q: What are the advantages of traveling with a group? If you still want to do an individual trip, consider these-
Q: I am interested in a custom tour, can Reformation Tours help me?
Q: Do you work with individual travelers?
Q: Do I need to have a visa, shots, or an International Driving Permit?
Q: Do I need to speak a foreign language?
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Documentation

Q: Do I need a passport or a visa?
Q: How do I get a passport?
Q: My trip is paid in full, when can I expect to receive my documents?
Q: When may I receive my flight information?
Q: Why do I have to provide my name as it appears on my passport?
Q: I have lost my airline tickets, what should I do?
Q: I made a special request (i.e. special meal) with your representative. Why don't I see it on my itinerary? Back to top

Insurance

Q: What does the Travel Insurance cover?
Q: What happens if I need to cancel my trip and I didn't purchase travel insurance?
Q: What if I lose something of value on tour? Back to top

While Away from Home

Q: How can my family contact me in an emergency?
Q: Do I need a credit card to travel?
Q: How much money should I bring?
Q: Do I need a money belt?
Q: Will USA currency be accepted for extra expenses?
Q: Will ATMs be available?
Q: Should I exchange some money before departure?
Q: Will I be able to shop while on tour?
Q: What is the "VAT" or Value Added Tax? Back to top

Security

Q: Is travel safe, should I go with political unrest?
Q: What is my security code?
Q: How does my security code protect me?
Q: Do I have to entermy security code?
Q: Should I carry on my luggage or check it through? Back to top

Reformation Tours’ Christian Emphasis

Q: Why should I take a Christian tour?
A: These are fun tours! You’ll be encouraged in your faith and come home excited about God’s faithfulness. Fellowship will be rich and you’ll return home inspired by what God has done in the past, and encouraged by what He is doing today in Europe. Take a break, get away from the routines of local life and be stirred in your spirit and soul- God did mighty works in the past through key people. He is still at work in renewal in Europe. Let Reformation Tours take you there and experience it firsthand!
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Q: What makes Reformation Tours Christian?
A: We are Christians whose chief desire is to connect modern believers with their church history roots at the very places where important events happened. Also, we delight in connecting our Christian clients with local ethnic believers for times of fellowship and cross-cultural worship. Reformation Tours wants to connect you to your church history roots and get you face-to-face with the living church in these countries. No other company strives so earnestly to do so. RT has actively cultivated relationships with foreign local pastors in towns and cities along your tour. We can get you face-to-face with key leaders who are shaping Europe’s Christian future.Back to top

Q: Is Reformation Tours a Christian company?
A: Yes, absolutely. Yes, unashamedly! Our purpose can best be summed up by Isaiah 12: 4-5, “Give thanks to the Lord, call on His name; MAKE KNOWN AMONG THE NATIONS WHAT HE HAS DONE, and proclaim that His name is exalted. Sing to the Lord, for He has done glorious things; let this be known to all the world.” That’s it really in a nutshell- we want to educate and inspire believers by taking them to sites of God’s faithfulness- see where Luther nailed his famous 95 Thesis, and then go fellowship with some lively German Christians and have a fellowship meal at their church. Share testimonies and prayers through your guide as they interpret. Wow!
We can connect you with leading people and churches in the renewal movements in Europe today, while you see the sites where God did great acts through His people in past centuries. For example, if you are Baptist, we can arrange for you to have Sunday or midweek church with Baptists on your Baptist Heritage Tour. Presbyterians will be so encouraged as they can worship and pray alongside of their Scottish cousins in the faith. We delight in making such get-togethers possible. With our extensive overseas connections, we can make your tours be truly rich and memorable!
Reformation Tours’ entire staff is Christian and our target market is only Christian travel. Furthermore, we want Christian travelers to have times of rich cross-cultural fellowship in villages and cities on their tours. Through these times of sharing praise and worship, prayers or perhaps a meal in a local church, may the Body of Christ be knitted together in love.Back to top

Q: What is Reformation Tours’ Statement of Faith?
A: Go to Reformation Tours’ Statement of Faith Back to top

Q: Will our guides be Christians?
A: When possible, but they will all certainly be experts in Christian history. They will be screened for their knowledge. They will be required to allow your group the freedom to worship and pray your way through your tour. Reformation Tours wants you to be edified and encouraged as well as educated about church history on your tour. We do our best to use guides who share your passion for your Christian history. Honestly, a good guide makes all the difference- so does a bad one! You will be furnished with extensive notes on church history people and places that you will be experiencing on your tour. A local Christian co-host can join your tour to add fascinating cultural and spiritual insights that non-Christians guides won’t know. For example, Reformation Tours can arrange for a retired English Anglican Vicar to join your tour of Britain, or a bi-lingual Swiss believer to add a real richness and depth. Back to top

Q: Can we meet with local ethnic believers?
A: Yes, if you desire! What a great way to add real fun and depth to your tour. Our competitors usually shy away from providing these fellowship opportunities, due to logistics and the numerous details. Any additional costs for providing these services will be shared by the group, or by those persons participating. Usually, foreign believers will meet you at your hotel, to keep things simple. These activities will be optional, and you may opt to rest in your room or go out and make local friends instead. However, if the fellowship gathering is offsite from your hotel, this will incur transportation expenses and you will be required to pay a reasonable, shared portion of the expenses. Back to top

Q: Will we travel with people from our own denomination?
A: Yes, if enough of you form together from your church or sister church to make a group; minimum size is 12. You can build your own group and travel at super discounts; see Group Leaders Travel Free. Ideally a pastor would advertise the tour in his/her church and assemble a group. Alternatively, people from a variety of Christian denominations may happily travel together on a guaranteed departure date. Back to top

Q: Have any religious services been planned?
A: Yes, as many as we can reasonably fit into your schedule. Your fellowship with foreign believers is a key element in our tours. It is tough on logistics and schedules, but we feel it’s essential. This way you can experience both the historic AND the living church body. Back to top

Q: Are there study lectures on the tour?
A: Yes, and these will be exciting and really help to add to the educational nature of your travel. Reformation tours wants learning about your church history to be fun and simple. Before you go on tour you’ll be given study notes to better prepare yourself about the people, events and places of the Reformation. Then, while on tour you’ll have lectures from local pastors and believers, expert local guides, your tour guide. Also we’ll be watching videos of church history that are relevant to your tour. Imagine- watching a video about the life of Martin Luther, and then your bus arrives at the very site where Luther labored for the Lord! Our study programs encourage and equip you. Back to top

Q: Who leads devotionals on tours?
A: You have the freedom to choose! If you are traveling as a church family group, your pastor will do so after breakfasts, or on route in the bus. If your tour group is gathered from different cities, it can be done using a daily devotional guide that relates directly to the people or sites of your itinerary. Please bring your worship CDs and cassettes along so you can play them on the bus. Back to top

Q: What extra/unique value does Reformation Tours add to their tours?
A: Compare us with competitors, look to see if they feature these. (Can you have an unforgettable Christian tour WITHOUT these?)
-tours for Christians, designed by Christians themselves. (We’ve personally been to many of these sites and know firsthand how exciting these visits can be.) Our staff is British and American, so we have lots of connections and travel knowledge.
-see church history while meeting modern believers on site. (very exciting!)
-the most comprehensive tours about Christian history. (Competitors will take you to some of the sites, but we’ll make the history come alive and teach you how events there shaped you modern Christianity. You’ll learn about key people in Church history. You’ll return home encouraged by God’s faithfulness in the past and believing Him to see more of it in your own life!
-we’ll arrange fellowship with local believers of your denomination.
-guaranteed Christian tour co-hosts.
-daily worship and church services built into your itinerary.
- Reformation Tours tithes it’s profits back into church renewal movements in the countries you’ll tour.
-free devotional book written by ‘local’ author- British, French, German, etc
-free Christian travel guide book and comprehensive study notes.
-free travel advice by phone or email from our knowledgeable staff. Back to top

Q: Are we allowed to do ministry/evangelism on tours?
A: Yes, in a sensitive fashion that honors the Lord and loves people. At Reformation Tours we pray that the Lord will minister to and through groups as they travel. For those groups wanting to do hands-on visits to ministries, we can build a tour that best suits your group’s objectives. Email or call us with your requests and we’ll try to turn them into realities. There are some very exciting things happening in the European church scene and we can connect you with the key people god is working through.
Want to fellowship with a Welsh church where the famous Welsh revival happened?? Want to do street ministry in Paris? How about preaching yourself at London’s famous Speakers’ Corner at Hyde Park- where Wigglesworth preached? Some of your group can do outreach with local German church and experience the move of God today amidst the history of your tour. What’s your desire? Tell us at REFORMATION TOURS. Back to top

Q: What types of tours does Reformation Tours offer?
A: Escorted tours of early church history sites with numerous opportunities to meet local, believers for fellowship. These are overtly Christian tours for those believers who want to get a hands-on educational experience of sites that are important to our Christian faith. You’ll see the historical sites, learn why these are important AND meet the modern living church. These are unique travel products. Our competitors have nothing similar. Go and be blessed! Sorry, we do not offer independent travel packages- as Reformation Tours exists to promote unity and fellowship in the Lord’s body. We find group travel to be the best way to achieve these dynamics. Back to top

Q: Are there Separate Denominational tours?
A: Baptists, Lutherans, Episcopalians, Pentecostals all have custom-designed tours that focus in on people and places key to your denomination.
For example, Baptists can meet fellow bi-lingual Baptists is the very town and cities where your denomination has grown from. Lutherans can see the location where Luther nailed his famous 95 Thesis- and then go have a cup of coffee and fellowship with local bi-lingual Lutherans. This is exciting and unique travel that will enrich you soul- that’s our prayer at Reformation Tours! Back to top

Q: What is a Reformation Tours Christian tour like?
A: You will be met on arrival and join a group of fellow travelers with the same itinerary and your English-speaking guide. Your guide will be an expert in Christian history. Reformation Tours can also arrange a guaranteed Christian co-host, resident to the country you are visiting. This fellow believer will be bi-lingual and will add exciting insights about the growth of the modern church along with your regular guide’s teachings. Your group will stay in the same accommodations, uses the same transportation, and share the camaraderie of educational Christian travel. Back to top

Bonding and Escrowed Funds; USTOA, ASTA

Q: What is the $1 million Consumer Protection Plan by the United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA)?
A: It is peace of mind, security and wisdom! Why travel without it when you CAN with Reformation Tours? When you travel with Reformation Tours, what a peace of mind it will be for you, knowing that your tour is backed by a strong & secure $1,000,000 bond. Also, all of our payments for your tour are held in a special escrow account. Most of our competitors don’t offer these!

Reformation Tours shares the coverage available under the United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA) $1 million Consumer Protection Plan because our affiliate operator in Europe is a USTOA member. As an active member of USTOA, they have posted $1 million with USTOA to be used to reimburse the payments of Reformation Tours customers in the unlikely event of our affiliate tour operator’s bankruptcy or insolvency. For further info, see: www.ustoa.com; or call the USTOA at 212-599-6599 to obtain complete details of the USTOA Consumer Protection Plan. Back to topReformation Tours’ affiliate operator is a member of the following organizations: The United States Tour Operators Association, (USTOA), The National Tour Association, (NTA), American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA), and the Association of British Travel Agents, (ABTA). Some of these associations operate a consumer protection plan to cover deposits placed with any tour operator member. Back to top

Q: Does Reformation Tours offer escrowed payments?
A: Yes, all of the payments we make to our affiliate operator are escrowed for you protection. Escrow means a big peace of mind for you, knowing that your hard-earned money is safe and secure. Your money is protected and held here in the United States. Please note that very few of our competitors offer this critical service. We do! Travel with peace of mind! For more information go to RT Escrowed Travel Funds. Want to sleep well at night and not worry about your deposit money? Travel with Reformation Tours at rest easy! Back to top

Q: Is Reformation Tours an ASTA Tour Operator?
A: Sure! We have linked up with the best and you now can enjoy the benefits. Our affiliate operator is an ASTA Tour Operator. The American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA) has selected our operator with the prestigious certification. Only the most secure and established firms have this coveted status. Reformation Tours wants to alleviate any concerns you have about financial security and integrity in travel. Make your reservation with confidence knowing that you are in experienced and qualified hands! Back to top

Reservation Process

Q: Can I call and ask questions before I make a reservation?
A: Yes, of course, our reservations department will be happy to answer any question you may have. We also recommend that you check out the website, which is packed with information. Back to top

Q: Besides your on-line reservation engine, what other ways can I make my reservation?
A: Reservations can be made by calling our Reservations Department at 1-800-303-5534.Back to top

Q: Do I have to book my trip directly through Reformation Tours, or can I use my professional travel agent?
A: Yes, you can book directly with Reformation Tours, by simply filling out the reservation form at Here’s How To Book. For any questions, email REFORMATION TOURS using the Contact Us form. Alternatively, print the form from our website and fax it into our office reservation staff. Also, you may call us at directly at 1-800-303-5534 and our courteous expert staff can happily assist you.
Additionally, your favorite travel agent can assist you with your reservations. Back to top

Q: How far in advance do I need to book a vacation?
A: Our tours fill quickly, so start the process early. Good tours always do!
Reformation Tours suggests booking as far in advance as possible to ensure the best air and hotel availability and prices. In many villages and towns of the Reformation, there are limited quality hotels. Many of these have reservations made a year in advance. SO, if you want to spend the night in these charming places- rather than out of the city center hotels, make your reservations early!
Upon your inquiry to our reservations team we’ll send you Free Information about sites and Christian history people highlighted by your tour. Your final, fully paid reservation must be completed no later than 45 days prior to scheduled departure. All reservations made within 30 days of departure will be charged a $75.00 late booking fee and immediate full payment is required. RT is charged late fees by our suppliers of hotels and transport and must pass these costs on to you. We cannot accept a reservation if the desired departure date is within 21 days. Sorry, wish it weren’t so!
If you want to travel free as a group leader start early, nine months prior to your planned departure. You can put together a group of friends and travel free. This takes several months to put together your group but the rewards are a free trip. Back to top

Q: What happens if my reservation made within 30 days cannot be confirmed?
A: If services cannot be confirmed or an acceptable alternative cannot be found, your payment and late booking fee will be refunded. Back to top

Q: Are all prices based on double occupancy?
A: Yes, all prices are based on double occupancy, however hotels will accommodate a triple or single. Additional charges may apply. Single supplements usually cost $300 more. Save cash and share a room. We’ll pair you up. Room mates can be rotated. Do you snore really loud? Keep your friends and get a single room. ? Back to top

Q: What are acceptable forms of payment?
A: Reformation Tours accepts Visa, Master Card, Discover and American Express. Add 3% to your price if making credit card payments- these are fees charged to PRT by the banks and must be passed on to you. However, cash and check payments help you avid this 3% fee; all tour prices are quoted at the pay by check price. A non-refundable deposit of $200.00 per person, paid by credit card, is required at the time of booking. The cardholder must be one of the passengers traveling. Back to topIf you choose to pay your balance by credit card, please use RT's Credit Card Payment Form. Personal checks will only be accepted if received by Reformation Tours 40 days prior to your departure. If sending a check within 40 days of departure, it must be a certified check, a cashier’s check, or a money order. The address for mail payments is: Reformation Tours, 409 Portland Ave. Belleville, IL 62220, USA Back to top

Q: Can I purchase an optional sightseeing tour in advance?
A : No need to! Most of our group packages are fully inclusive- offering far more than our competitors do. Any optional tours that you desire can be purchased while you are on the tour. (Occasionally some tours have a full/half day of leisure and you may opt to go on a city tour. You may do these on your own, or book them through your tour guide. Back to top

Touring and Pricing

Q: Which countries does Reformation Tours travel to?
A: Germany, Switzerland, France, Luxemburg, Belgium, England, Wales, Scotland, Ireland, Northern Ireland, Greece and Turkey-all have fascinating Christian history sites and people who forged Christianity. We delight in arranging fellowship with local believers for an unforgettable travel experience. Back to top

Q: Does Reformation Tours operate tour year round?
A: Absolutely! Europe is lovely in November or even January. Temperature will be tolerable, and best of all, there will be no crowds. Chances for fellowship with local Christian believers are often better in the winter months as life is slower paced. Also, prices are cheaper! Back to top

Q: Will our guides be Christians?
A: When possible, but they will all certainly be experts in Christian history. They will be screened for their knowledge. They will be required to allow your group the freedom to worship and pray your way through your tour. Reformation Tours wants you to be edified and encouraged as well as educated about church history on your tour. We do our best to use guides who share your passion for your Christian history. Honestly, a good guide makes all the difference- so does a bad one! You will be furnished with extensive notes on church history people and places that you will be experiencing on your tour. A local Christian co-host can join your tour to add fascinating cultural and spiritual insights that non-Christians guides won’t know. For example, Reformation Tours can arrange for a retired English Anglican Vicar to join your tour of Britain, or a bi-lingual Swiss believer to add a real richness and depth. Back to top

Q: Can we meet with local ethnic believers?
A: Yes, if you desire! What a great way to add real fun and depth to your tour. Our competitors usually shy away from providing these fellowship opportunities, due to logistics and the numerous details. Any additional costs for providing these services will be shared by the group, or by those persons participating. Usually, foreign believers will meet you at your hotel, to keep things simple. These activities will be optional, and you may opt to rest in your room or go out and make local friends instead. However, if the fellowship gathering is offsite from your hotel, this will incur transportation expenses and you will be required to pay a reasonable, shared portion of the expenses. Back to top

Q: Why are no prices published on the website?
A: Sadly, most travelers shopping for a tour too easily make quick decisions based solely on price-they are in a hurry, etc. At Reformation Tours we have built in numerous added value items for Christians. These are specialty tour products designed just for Christians- lots of study lectures, fellowship and church services ALREADY designed into the itinerary. We PURPOSELY do not give you the price. Why? So we can listen to your particular travel needs, and then fully explain the superior quality and benefits to you of our tours. Prices are very good, far better than our competitors for what you actually do get. We can even assist you in doing an educated cost comparison with our competitors- cost per day, what is/not included. Sorry for not having prices on the web! Just select a tour and contact our sales office for a prompt price. Back to top

Q: What IS included in the tour price?
A: As per your specific tour quote, however, typically these are include: Flights, accommodations, All transfers, meals, (except for some lunches), sightseeing per itinerary in modern air-conditioned motor coach, services of English-speaking tour escort/manager throughout, services of local guides in many major cities, entrance fees per itinerary, hotel taxes and tips to hotel staff (maids, waiters, porters for one piece of luggage only) Back to top

Q: What’s NOT included in the tour price?
A: Items of personal nature such as airport security taxes, shopping, telephone calls, tips to guides, bus drivers, laundry, wines, mineral water, beverages, coffee, tea, food other than the table d'hote menu, passport and visa fees, insurance, and foreign port taxes. Back to top

Q: Are tips included in the tour price?
A: Some, but not all; as our competitors use this slightly misleading approach to pricing, we must do the same to enable you to more easily compare prices. Your tour price already includes tips to these people: hotel dining room staff, hotel bellmen (one piece of luggage only), housekeeping staff. Back to top

Q: What tips are NOT included?
A: Tips to your tour director, bus drivers, and local guides are not included in the tour price. Please view our recommended tipping guidelines for suggestions. (Our competitors don’t include these items, and for your ease in comparing tour prices, we do not include these costs as well.) . The guides and drivers are paid a standard salary based on their union wages. We offer a suggested guideline of $3.00 per day for the guide and $2.00 per day for the driver. You may wish to plan for this gift in advance.
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Q: What extras will I have to pay for?
A: Any items of a personal nature such as: phone calls, tips, laundry, beverages and meals not stated in the itinerary, taxi and bus fares, passport and visa fees, etc. Back to top

Q: How do I meet the person doing my transfer?
Our Reformation Tours representative will greet clients scheduled for airport/hotel transfers at the selected destination. They will meet you as you exit the luggage area. You will see your greeter holding a Reformation Tours sign or your name. Our Reformation Tours rep representative will assist you as appropriate and transport you to your hotel or tour. If you have not purchased your flights from Reformation Tours, you must make your own transfer arrangements, using taxi, bus or train. Alternatively, we can arrange a private transfer for you, for a fee; just email our Reservations Dept. to discuss. Back to top

Q: What is the policy on smoking?
A: Our motor coaches are non-smoking, however when stops are made, passengers are permitted to exit the coach to smoke. Smoking as well as non-smoking rooms may be requested. Back to top

Q: What are the limitations on luggage?
A: Be ready to carry your own bags and pack light! Airlines allow one checked bag, and one carry-on bag. Excess luggage may be subject to an airline penalty of $100 per bag excess. Motor coach tours provide for porterage of one piece of checked luggage, pre-paid; excess bags may be charged a daily surcharge by the porters at hotels. Be advised! Due to limited coach storage, we strongly recommend that this single bag should have dimensions not exceeding 30"x18"x10" and weight not exceeding 60 pounds (27 kg). Airline regulations state that carry-on bags should not exceed the dimensions of 17” x 14” x 8”. Back to top

Q: Will our tour guide speak English?
A: Yes, we personally screen them for accent, clarity and knowledge. English is the only language spoken on Reformation Tours coach tours. Yes, we’ll happily do Spanish or other language tours, and excellent guides for your language will be provided. Back to top

Q: How strenuous are Reformation Tours' tours?
A: Our tours are physically active with lots of walking, standing while sightseeing, and even more stair climbing. Age is not a concern as long as you are physically fit and a strong walker. You must be able to carry all of your own luggage. Regardless of your age, before you leave for Europe, get in shape. Try to walk at least an hour every day and hike up lots of stairs. Back to top

Q: How long will it take to travel from the airport to the hotel?
A: Depending on your itinerary, the transfer can be as short as a few minutes or as long as 2 or more hours. It may seem unwise to have such a bus ride following an international overnight flight, but remember: your hotel room will not be ready until late afternoon. So even if you stay in the same city for the first night, you will tour the area for about five or six hours before arriving at the hotel. Back to top

Q: Will Reformation Tours staff be available to assist us with problems or details during the tour?
A: Yes! Your friendly guide will serve as the tour manager and will professionally assist you. These are all veteran guides, hand selected for their depth of knowledge, friendliness, and abilities to problem-solve. Our affiliate partner in Europe has served over 200,000 travelers in Europe in the last five years alone. Back to top

Q: What meals are included in my tour price?
A: Breakfasts will usually be a buffet. Lunches usually will be on your own. This allows you to sample local cuisine of your choice. We find most people like this freedom. Your guide will assist you with ordering and restaurant staff do speak English. Dinner will be a three-course meal served at the hotel. Beverages are not included with lunch or dinner; this is to keep costs low to you. Hotels try to charge a lot for beverages, and many people just want water. Bottled water, coffee, tea and soft drinks are available at a supplemental charge. (NOTE: It is not appropriate to make your lunch from breakfast foods provided at the hotels.) Back to top

Q: How long is the typical sightseeing day?
A: On most days, you will depart the hotel after breakfast (about 8:00 AM) and arrive at your next hotel in the late afternoon, around 5:00 PM. Reformation Tours plans each day to be full, but not too tiring. In the evening you’ll have personal time to relax, pray, or go explore locally on your own. Go shopping or meet some locals! Also, we’ll have numerous times of fellowship with local believers arranged in advance. Being with local Christians makes for a great balance to museums and historical sites. Back to top

Q: What are the buses like?
A: Excellent! Clean, modern and driven by safe, courteous drivers. Most will have emergency restrooms on board. The deluxe motor coaches can accommodate up to 55 passengers. Smaller groups may have a smaller bus. Our tours will operate with as few as 20 people, and to keep costs reasonable to you, a smaller bus may be used. Back to top

Q: Are there rest rooms on the buses?
A: Yes, most will have emergency restrooms on board. Your tour will be making stops during the day at which time toilets can be used. Back to top

Q: Will the bus be making frequent rest stops?
A: Yes, sufficient stops will be made for the comfort of our passengers. Back to top

Q: Does Reformation Tours accept passengers with disabilities?
A: Yes, however persons needing wheelchairs or ambulatory assistance will find travel not easy- but still very rewarding. Many of the sites on our tours have poor access. Please e-mail RT so we can discuss access to particular sites and help you best select a tour that has the most full access for you. RT welcomes you on our tours, but you must be realistic- can you and our aid move at the pace of a group tour? If not, you could consider doing a similar trip, but by yourselves, at your own leisurely pace. We empathize with you and really want to see you enjoy the treasures of Europe’s Reformation.
Here’s an idea- gather enough people like yourself, build a group and we’ll arrange for a custom tour with a wheel-chair equipped bus- just for your group! Can you find twenty friends who want to go but just can’t keep up with a more active tour pace? We think you can, and we’ll help you. See our Group Leaders Travel Free section and then contact our sales staff and we can arrange a tour that features accessible sites and an accessible bus. Back to top

Q: What are the US Customs regulations?
A: A returning USA resident is allowed $400 in purchases duty free. Gifts may be mailed to the USA duty free, but are limited to $50 per person/per day. If you are not a USA citizen, please check with the website for your own government’s Customs regulations and details. Happy shopping! Back to top

Q: May I smoke while on the tour?
A: Yes, but smoking is not allowed on the aircraft, on the bus, or in many of the hotels. Back to top

Q: Can I request a special diet?
A: For your flight meals, yes. Contact the airline directly for this. However, while on the tour, you will need to either bring these items with you from home, or go get them from local store while on the tour. Europe has all of the products and specialty dietary food you are now using at home. So, if you need refrigerated, perishable items, rest assured that you can find them while on tour. Many shopkeepers speak English and your guide can assist you with shopping. The hotels cannot handle special diets, as your meals are based on a group plan. Back to top

Q: Should I bring my prescription medicines?
A: Bring your medicine in the original bottle, with you. Hand-carry these items if they are critical to you. Also bring a copy of the generic names for each in case they need to be filled. If you have medicines which need to be refrigerated, you can make arrangements with the airlines and hotels as you travel. Such medicines should be labeled with your name and contact info and sealed in a zip-log plastic baggie. Back to top

Q: In case of an emergency, will a physician be available?
A: Yes, the hotel desk will contact a physician for you. Also, your tour guide will give assistance. Hopefully, you will have purchased travel insurance which will cover trip interruption, etc. Your guide will assist in contacting your family and the Reformation Tours staff. Although Reformation Tours is not responsible for any medical advice or attention the physician may provide, we would like to know if you are ill. Please Note: If you require hospitalization, the group will continue the tour without you. When you are released, you will need to make arrangements to meet up with the tour in progress or to return home. We can offer limited assistance in this area. Back to top

Q: How about phones in Europe?
A: GSM cell phones should work in Europe, others will not. To phone home, buy a pre-paid phone card while you are on your tour, and just enter the correct access codes and say “hello.” Back to top

Q: What is the minimum age for children to travel with Reformation Tours?
A: All children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Reformation Tours does require that children traveling on our Escorted/Guided tours are age 7 or older. Back to top

Q: Tour Itinerary jargon?
A: Visit: your bus will stop and you will tour that site.
View: A brief stop to take photos.
See: The bus will drive by the site, but probably not stop. Depends on traffic and schedules.
”Why not see” or “perhaps enjoy”- ideas for you to do on your own for free in your leisure time; or possibly a for a fee during a day of leisure. Optional city tours, for example, can be purchased from the guide or on your own on that day.
“Time to explore and discover” – do as you like in your free time. Get out of the hotel and savor the charms of quaint and modern Europe!
“A day to relax/day of leisure”- no planned group activities. Your guide may be available only for an hour or so in the morning and evening. These days are memorable, you can do as you like. Have that cup of espresso with your spouse, shop, sleep, make new friends. Back to top

Hotels

Q: If I do not have a roommate, must I pay the single supplement?
A: While Reformation Tours will try to match you with a roommate, we cannot guarantee one will be available. Therefore, you should try to find a roommate and notify us of your selection as early as possible. If no roommate can be found, you will receive an invoice for the single room supplement charge as listed on the brochure. Back to top

Q: What are the hotels like?
A: Hotels are Four-Star rated, and are very good. They are chosen based on location to city center and closeness to nearby sites. We want you to be able to have a pleasant evening stroll on your own and explore the local culture. RT has purposely not chose cheaper out of town four star hotel- just so you can have more enjoyable leisure time in the evenings or that exercise walk before breakfast!
Reformation Tours knows you deserve good hotels and we are using only hotels that have been inspected by our affiliate's overseas staff. Each room will have a private bath, unless your tour has specialty historic hotels or B&Bs.
Single room sizes may be smaller than in your home country. Triple rooms consist of standard twin beds plus a sofa/folding bed or cot for the third person. Back to top

Q: What are beds like in the hotels?
A: Most rooms have 2 twin beds, which is standard in Europe. Beds are comfortable. After a full day of touring the charms of Europe, we know you want a good comfy bed! Triple rooms consist of standard twin beds plus a sofa/folding bed or cot for the third person. Back to top

Q: Are hair dryers available in the hotels?
A: Some but not all hotels have hair dryers. If you do not have a 220 volt hairdryer, purchase one upon arrival- this is easier than buying a voltage converter and bringing your own hairdryer from home. Back to top

Q: What is the electricity voltage?
A: Remember the voltage is 220 Volts in Europe. You will need a voltage converter and adapter plugs for all electrical appliances. Check with the labels on your electronics items, many will be dual voltage- laptop computers, video chargers, etc... Back to top

Q: When is check-in time at the hotel on the first day?
A: Your arrival overseas will be in the mid morning, typically. The hotels will not let you occupy rooms until 4:00 PM. RT has the first arrival day planned to help you ease gently into the new culture. To best beat jetlag, stay up until the local bedtime and sleep well. Back to top

Q: What about add-on hotel days and night before or after the tour?
A: Yes, contact us by e-mail for details. Rates are reasonable and you’ll have plenty of leisure time to explore the city on your own. However, transfers to/from the airport will be a surcharge- your transfer with your group is included. Also, the low group airfare will not be offered to you as you are now flying individually. Still, why rush home? Stay on in Europe for several extra days- you’ll be glad you did! Purchase only the land portion of your tour and get your air tickets yourself on the Web. Easily done. Back to top

Airlines

Q: Which airlines will be used?
A: Depending on your tour and destination: Lufthansa, British Airways, American Airlines, Delta, Continental, US Airways, Northwest Airlines Swiss, KLM, Air France, Aer Lingus, SAS, Austrian, Turkish Airlines, Alitalia, Olympic, Sabena, Canadian Back to top

Q: May I choose the airline I travel on?
A: Yes, if you choose to purchase only the land portion of our tour, and your individual airfare will most likely be higher priced. To get you the lowest airfare, we have negotiated group blocks of seats, so you must travel with the selected airline. Due to the volume of passengers traveling on various itineraries from many departure cities, you cannot select the airline for your travel to/from your destination. Back to top

Q: Can I purchase air only from Reformation Tours?
A: No. Our airline agreements require land services (e.g. 2 nights hotel).To purchase air only see www.expedia.com Back to top

Q: Can I purchase my own domestic tickets to the departure city?
A: Yes; however, we strongly recommend that passengers DO NOT purchase discounted domestic air tickets because of unforeseen schedule changes that may result in high cancellation fees. All flight times are subject to change without advance notice. Airlines have been known to change a flight time by five (5) or more hours, either earlier or later. Back to top

Q: Can I purchase my own international tickets?
A: Yes. But remember, airport/hotel/airport transfers are not provided to "ground only" passengers (passengers who have purchased their own international flights). If you are a "ground only" passenger, you will meet the group at the first hotel and leave the group at the last hotel. You will be responsible for making your own travel arrangements to/from the international airports. Back to top

Q: Who is responsible for any airline schedule changes and/or expenses?
A: All flight times are subject to change by the airlines without advance notice. Reformation Tours is not responsible for changes and/or delays in airline schedules, nor the expenses associated with such changes. We highly recommend you purchase travel insurance which will cover most, if not all, of expenses related to schedule changes. Back to top

Q: What if I miss my flight, or it is canceled, on the day of departure?
A: If your flight is delayed or cancelled, insist with the airline representatives that they rebook you on the earliest flight to meet the tour. As soon as you have your new flights confirmed, please call our toll-free line 1-800-303-5534 immediately to notify us of your change in flights, so we can have PT staff to meet you upon your arrival overseas. If the situation is not rectified, contact the Reformation Tours office immediately so we can inform our overseas office. Again, we highly recommend you purchase travel insurance Back to top.

Q: May I request special seating and/or meals on the flights?
A: Yes. Requests should be submitted in writing no later than 90 days prior to your departure. However, we cannot guarantee your request can or will be granted by the airline. Back to top

Q: Will my group travel together on the same airline?
A: Every effort will be made to keep groups together; however, depending on your itinerary, the size of the group and the availability of flights, some groups may be on several different domestic and/or international flights. Back to top

Q: Will a company representative be available at the airports?
A: Our personnel will meet groups at the foreign arrival airports and will help with return departures to your home country. In most cases, there will not be representatives at US airports. Back to top

Q: What are the limitations on luggage?
A: Be ready to carry your own bags and pack light! Airlines allow one checked bag, and one carry-on bag. Excess luggage may be subject to an airline penalty of $100 per bag excess. Motor coach tours provide for porterage of one piece of checked luggage, pre-paid; excess bags may be charged a daily surcharge by the porters at hotels. Be advised! Due to limited coach storage, we strongly recommend that this single bag should have dimensions not exceeding 30"x18"x10" and weight not exceeding 60 pounds (27 kg). Airline regulations state that carry-on bags should not exceed the dimensions of 17” x 14” x 8”. For more ideas on what to bring, check out Rick's Packing List. We also have some Packing Tips for Women. Back to top

Q: What if my luggage is lost or damaged?
A: File a claim at the airport before you leave the baggage claim area. It will be the airline's responsibility to get lost luggage to you or compensate you for damaged luggage. You must follow-up with the airline. We strongly suggest that you pack at least one change of clothes in your carry-on bag. Back to top

Q: What does air up-sell mean?
A: If air at the brochure rate is unavailable, we will offer the next best alternate to you. You always have the option to revise your departure city or make the booking land-only, prior to ticketing, if the up-sell charge is unacceptable. Back to top

Q: I lost my airline tickets, what should I do?
A: Pray, then look again! Contact Reformation Tours immediately, our staff will advise you how to file a lost ticket application with the airline. You will have to pay for a new ticket, but you should receive a refund within 6 months assuming the lost ticket is not found and used. Back to top

Q: What is an e-ticket?
A: An e-ticket is an electronic airline ticket. At check in, you must present your passport and a second form of identification, along with your passenger receipt. Your passenger receipt and an itinerary are included with your documents. Not all of Reformation Tours’ airline tickets are e-ticket Tours. Back to top

Q: Can I earn frequent flyer miles for my trip?
A: Most airlines do allow passengers to earn frequent flyer miles. Please check with the airline to see if you are eligible. Back to top

Q: I made a request for a seat assignment, why don’t I see it on my
flight itinerary?