| Self Drive Tours - Information |
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Our All Inclusive Self Drive Tour Concept Rates are the most affordable ones within the Tourism Industry. If you find a similar package at a lower rate – we match the rate and provide you with an additional discount of 10 %
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Q: Could I organize the same tour package by myself for less money?
A: Probably not - because tour operator and corporate identities receive always much lower and prefered rates than an individual person or a travel agent. In addition you will spend a significant amount of time to find the right products, call the different supplier, exchange Information and get professional help and advise for your entire vacation package. Virtually impossible.
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Q: But Tour Operators are working with huge mark ups?
A: They don’t – at least not the majority of them. It’s just a nice try to lure you to the company who suggest this.
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Q: Should I reserve the tour with a company who guarantees the same rate as each individual supplier I found online?
A: Well – you can - but it’s foolish and does not make sense because you are better off to make the reservation in this case by yourself. This cost is either the same – or probably less - if you use certain advertised online discounts. If your calculation is still higher we of course suggest using a tour company. Do not forget to add taxes to your calculation (17 % BC, 12 % Alberta, 15.5 % Atlantic Provinces).
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Q: I like to spend more time in a particular area. Can I simply add a night to the tour or change the routing? A: Most of our tours are flexible and we can add or exchange nights in destinations to suit your timetable and preferred routing. Thus, sometimes it will be necessary to observe ferry schedules to match certain dates and/or departures.
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Q: Could I upgrade to a higher hotel category?
A: Yes – no problem. We can offer you different hotel categories. Please contact us for advice and applicable rates.
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Q: What’s about the rental car?
A: A compact car is always included in our rates. If you prefer a larger size car or a 4x4 please refer to the tour rate tables or contact us for details. Our advertised rates include also local taxes, free mileage, insurance and 24 h support line.
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Q: What if something unexpected goes wrong during the tour?
A:You can call us toll-free within Canada. Someone from our office is on call to help you.
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Q: What type of Identification do I need to enter Canada?
A: Native-born US Citizens: Copy of Birth Certificate, US Passport or Voter Registration card, and a form of photo ID. Naturalized US Citizens: Naturalization Certificate or US Passport, and a form of photo ID. US Residents (non-citizens): Alien Registration Receipt Card (US form I-151 or 1-551). All International Visitors: Valid passport with proper travel documents (I-94, Canadian Visa if required, IAP-66, J-forms etc). Foreign Exchange Students must bring along all appropriate paperwork including an IAP-66 (pink form) in addition to their passport and I-94 card. Persons under 18 years of age who are not accompanied by their parent or legal guardian should bring a letter from parent or guardian giving them permission to travel to Canada.
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Q: Which services are included e.g. meals, taxes etc.?
A: Generally there are no meals included unless otherwise stated. Some hotels and inns offer a complimentary continental breakfast but we do not guarantee it. A full American - or Continental breakfast is included in our Bed and Breakfast Tours. Please refer to the appropriate tour page for details of services included. Important Note: all applicable taxes are included in our rates
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Q: Should I book a Self Drive Tour or use other means of Transportation?
A: This depends on your personal preference. Canada has some good and scenic highway connections and driving is easy. A rental car and individual hotels are providing an independent way to discover the beauty of Canada’s countryside and national parks: You can stop were you want, you have plenty of time for sightseeing off the beaten path and you are more flexible. If this is not what you like – we may suggest a motorhome rental. Other tours are usually very limited in flexibility.
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Q: Should I Compare the Rates of Tour Companies on the Internet?
A: Yes definitely. You will notice sooner or later who is serious with his promises or who is “blowing hot air“ because meanwhile almost everyone claims that he/she either has the largest selection or most affordable tour program just for you. Compare the actual rates and ensure they are current because some web sites are not updated for years, check all services included, look for hidden charges such as reservation or ticketing fees and of course - taxes - and than make your decision.
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Q: What is the advantage booking with a "long time" Resident Company?
A: None. Most residents are traveling less than you self.
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Q: Can I Trust a Company which claims "30 +" Travel Experience more?
A: Don’t believe any mythos or claims of 30 + years of travel experience - unless you have thouroughly checked the company record. Some companies who are claiming this are not even incorporated.
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Q: How can I check the Credibility of a Tour Company?
A: On various ways: You can call the applicable Better Business Bureau for information – but understand that most information (with the exception of complaints) are provided directly by the tour operator -, check the company history record within the Corporate Database, make sure the company is an incorporated LLC, INC and LTD, or simply trust the company of your choice. Don’t let anyone play with your fears because most online companies are reliable!
A open notice to the information from a BBB – Only about 2 % of all registered businesses are belonging to the organization because yearly fees are outrageous, services to members are hardly existent and (non) membership information are not updated or wrongfully added. In our opinion the listed information (if any) at a BBB is worthless.
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