France River Cruising

What validity do I need on my passport?
All passengers are required to possess a passport valid for 6 months beyond the conclusion of their trip.

Should I bring copies of my passport and visas?
Yes. As your passport will be kept on board the ship throughout the cruise portion for transit formality reasons, we recommend you bring a photocopy of your passport/visas with you to carry on you at all times when on shore.

Please note: passengers who have selected the Guided Excursion to Bratislava as a Scenic FreeChoice activity from Vienna are required to carry their passports with them on this sightseeing tour as Customs may wish to view passenger passports.

What visas do I require?
It is the sole responsibility of each passenger to have necessary visas and to comply with entry, health or other requirements of the countries visited. More advice can also be found at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s website.

Please note: If your nationality (passport) differs from the country in which you reside, please take the time to check especially carefully with your local consulates concerning visa and passport requirements for your travels. Holidays can be disrupted or have to be altered altogether if the correct documents cannot be supplied at airports or borders, so check very carefully that you have the required papers.

Can Scenic Tours arrange my passport and visas?
No, Scenic Tours and/or their employees and their agents are not responsible for passport, visa requirements, entry, health or other requirements of the countries visited or for any loss sustained by you for failing to comply with laws, regulations, orders and/or requirements of countries visited, and will not be liable for any costs or cancellation penalties or inconvenience where travellers do not have a travel authorisation, and are not permitted to travel.

Can Scenic Tours organise my travel insurance?
No, this is the responsibility of the passenger; however your travel agent can do this on your behalf. We strongly advise you to take out travel insurance to cover any unforeseen circumstances, which may arise as defined in the respective proposal forms. It is a good idea to take your travel insurance documents with you.

How much luggage can I bring?
The luggage allowance whilst on tour is one suitcase with a maximum size of 76 x 53 x 28 cms (30 x 21 x 11’’) and weight of 20 kilograms. You may also carry a small backpack or the Scenic Tours issued overnight bag on board the coach for the duration of the tour. Additional bags beyond the luggage allowance may incur additional charges and are to be settled directly to the hotel or as required. It is advised that you check airline luggage requirements directly with your most significant airline carrier.

Is porterage included?
Handling and porterage of your luggage (as per the luggage allowance above) is included in your tour.  Additional bags beyond the allowance may be charged or it may be the responsibility of the passenger to forward the baggage to another destination. Luggage handling is not included during any independent or non-escorted touring. In this situation, luggage handling and porterage will need to be organised directly with the hotel porters.

Should I attach the Scenic Tours luggage label provided prior to departure?
No, please wait until you have claimed your luggage at your destination airport. This will ensure airline companies will not tear off this tag, as it is required to easily identify your luggage for transfer services and hotels.

Are there any luggage restrictions on tour?
The Australian and New Zealand governments have enhanced security measures to limit the amount of liquids, aerosols, and gels that can be taken through the screening point for people who are flying to and from Australia. Details of restrictions and requirements can be found on the Australian Department of Infrastructure and Transport’s website or the New Zealand Government’s Aviation Security Service website. For information regarding carry on restrictions for other countries, please contact the relevant government agencies.

Will my luggage be secure?
We strongly advise that you do not pack anything of value in your check-in luggage and that you check-in ONLY your own suitcases. Do not carry items packed by other people. Never accept packages or articles from anyone unknown to you to carry on board the aircraft. As a sensible precaution against luggage tampering, including theft, lock your luggage. Information on luggage safety is available from The Australian Civil Aviation Safety Authority website.

What happens if my luggage goes missing?
It is highly unlikely for your luggage to be mislaid, however we suggest if travelling as a couple to pack each suitcase with back up clothes and toiletries for each person. We also suggest writing your personal and tour details on a label INSIDE each suitcase (including name, address, telephone number, departure and return flight details). Write only your name and destination address on outside labels.

Please note: For those passengers flying British Airways to Europe via London Heathrow Terminal 5, we suggest that to lessen the chance of your luggage being lost in transit, and connection time permitting, you check-in your luggage to London only. Collect your luggage in London and then re-check it to your final destination.

What clothing should I pack?

• Casual sportswear for daytime that can be mixed/matched/layered
• Jumper/warm jacket/gloves/hat/scarf for cooler mornings and nights
• Swimwear
• Comfortable walking shoes with rubber soles for good grip
• Sunglasses and sun hat
• Women require a minimum of one skirt or dress

What is the appropriate dress for visiting holy places?
When visiting churches and monasteries, modest dress is required i.e. no shorts, miniskirts or sleeveless tops. Turkey and Morocco are Muslim countries and you need to dress conservatively. To visit mosques, clean and modest dress is appreciated and often required. Thighs, shoulders and tops of upper arms should not be shown. Men also need to cover their bare legs and cannot enter mosques wearing shorts. Some holy places will supply scarves for tourists to borrow.

What else do I need to pack?
The following list may be useful when packing for your trip:

• Airline tickets and passport (plus a photocopy and extra passport photos)
• Travel and travel insurance documentation, and itinerary (make a copy for your emergency contact)
• Travellers cheques/cash/debit or credit card and emergency contact numbers if lost or stolen, plus local currency for first day and a money belt
• Spare memory card for your digital camera or film in clear plastic containers
• Only those keys needed on return
• Personal medication and prescriptions, extra glasses/contacts and prescriptions
• Sunscreen, lip balm and insect repellent
• Pocket calculator, address book, journal and pens
• Tissues and anti-bacterial hand wipes or hand sanitiser 
• Raincoat or umbrella
• Plastic bags for dirty laundry, washing powder and elastic clothesline
• Travel alarm clock, earplugs and sleep mask
• Adaptor plugs, mobile phone charger, battery charger
• Face cloth / flannel

Should I provide Scenic Tours with my health and fitness details prior to travelling?
We will supply a Health and Fitness form in your travel wallet. These forms are designed to provide us with instant information if an emergency should arise. These forms will be returned unopened at the completion of the tour. It is not compulsory to fill out these forms but is strongly recommended.

Can I take prescription medication into Europe?
Yes and its advisable to pack an ample supply of any medicine you are taking, copies of prescriptions and the telephone/fax number of your doctor. Because of strict drug laws in some countries, drugs you take on doctor’s orders should be carried in their original container showing the prescription label. Always keep your medication in your hand luggage.

Are there any health risks that I should be aware of?
Viral gastroenteritis is a very common virus that can be found almost anywhere, but its opportunity to spread is greater in contained environments. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea. It may also include fever, stomach issues and headache. The symptoms usually start 12 to 48 hours after viral infection and can last from 1 to 10 days. Most people who become sick with viral gastroenteritis recover quickly with no further problems.  However if the illness is more severe, further medical care may be required to treat dehydration. The most effective protection from personal contamination is ensuring strict attention to personal hygiene and in particular, frequent and thorough hand washing with soap and water and refraining from hand-to-mouth contact.

Colds and other viruses can spread quickly in an enclosed area such as a ship. Continue to practice common-sense hygiene and respiratory courtesy. Wash your hands often and cover your coughs and sneezes.  It is recommended that passengers carry an anti-bacterial hand sanitiser, which does not require rinsing with water. Use a sanitiser frequently i.e. after shore excursions, prior to meals and throughout the day. If you have any questions regarding your health or safety while on tour, please do not hesitate to ask your Tour Director.

Motion sickness can be a problem for some people when cruising, flying or travelling on coaches and trains and it is a good idea to take precautionary measures. Drugs for treating motion sickness can be purchased at most pharmacies in Australia, however a side effect can by drowsiness. Alternatives such as ginger tablets and acupressure wristbands are also available and work well for some people.

What vaccinations do I require?
Recommended vaccinations and other health protection measures vary and are subject to change. You must consult your doctor on current vaccinations needed for your destination.

What sort of fitness level do I require to travel in Europe?
It is not possible for large coaches to be used for some city sightseeing therefore many towns and cities will be visited by way of walking tours and accordingly, a reasonable level of fitness is required. Much of Europe is based on a myriad of old buildings and there are split-levels, steps and uneven surfaces everywhere. High-heeled shoes are not suitable for cobblestone streets and steep inclines in medieval towns and cities.  It is essential to have comfortable, rubber-soled walking shoes. Due to the amount of walking on your cruise shore excursions, which typically run for up to 3 hours, a reasonable level of fitness is required.

Can I travel in a wheelchair?
Due to the structure of old buildings, access to some establishments may not be convenient for wheelchair use, and facilities for the disabled in general may be limited. Many areas are pedestrian only. Marksburg Castle has a number of stairs which may impact guests with limited mobility access to all touring areas, but this will not impede participation of the medieval banquet.

There are also areas of the ship that cannot be accessed by wheelchair and passengers will need to be able to get on and off the ship out of the wheelchair, due to space. For more information please contact us.

What sort of first aid and medical items should I bring with me?
It may be useful to bring a supply of basic items with you. A first aid kit may include band-aids, antiseptic, aspirin, cough medicine, throat lozenges, cold and flu medication, diarrhoea medication, mild laxative, eye ointments/drops for minor infections, a general antibiotic and any special medications you may need personally. Please remember to bring a letter from your doctor or a copy of the prescription for any medication that you are carrying with you.

Will my special requirements be met throughout the tour?
Your special requirements have been passed onto all suppliers. Special requirements refer to airline seating, special dietary and medical needs. These requirements are on a request basis only and cannot be guaranteed by Scenic Tours. We strongly advise that you reconfirm your meal requests with the Scenic Tour Director upon joining your tour.

Are there medical personnel available on the ship?
Doctors are not available on board the ship, however we can stop anywhere along the way for medical emergencies.

Who will be escorting the tour?
Your holiday is a special time and our Tour Directors and Cruise Directors make all the difference. From your very first day their warm greetings and professionalism signal the start of a wonderful rapport. For all land tours and cruises that have city extensions in Paris, London or Prague, you will have the services of a Tour Director. Whilst on your cruise you will be taken care of by a Cruise Director. Our Directors have your best interests at heart and will take care of all arrangements for you. Please note that that your city extension or land Tour Director will not join you on the cruise.

What is the quality like in European hotels?
Europe’s tourist industry is centuries old and its hotels very often reflect the varied traditions and cultures of each country, so do not expect European hotels to be the same as those back home. You may find hotel rooms are slightly smaller. Most European hotel rooms do not have tea/coffee or ironing facilities in the room.

Please note: Single rooms in hotels are designed for one bed and as such in some locations, are smaller than twin rooms. Double bed rooms are on request only. We cannot guarantee that clients will receive a double bed at all properties due to limited availability with this configuration. In some cases, clients may be accommodated in twin share rooms.

What time can I check-in to my hotel?
If your flight arrives before noon (usually 14.00 is check-in time) at the city where your tour starts, the hotel may not have your room available until mid afternoon. We endeavour to ensure that rooms are ready for your arrival times however this is not always possible and is outside our control. Some people use this time to explore the neighbourhood, shop or relax in the hotel public areas. On arrival at your hotel, please check to see if your Tour Director has already posted tour information in the foyer.

Are there likely to be changes to my itinerary?
On certain occasions, for operational or local reasons, it may be necessary to change your hotel accommodation or a brochured attraction in a particular location. If this does occur, you will be notified of such changes as soon as possible.

Are laundry facilities available?
Laundry can be arranged direct with the hotel although it can be costly. Some hotels will provide an iron for you upon request.

Where will I be seated on board the coach?
To ensure all passengers have the opportunity to enjoy front and window seats, a daily seat rotation system is employed on our coaches. It works on a scatter system where you are rotated around the coach by numbers, which allows you to get to know other members of the group.

Is there any specific cruise information I need to be aware of?

Cabin Allocations: Please be aware that cabin allocations as per your Booking Summary are subject to change. Once on board your Cruise Director will be available should you have any queries.

Docking at European Ports: When docking at some European ports there may be several other cruise ships docking at the same place. During port stops, ships may dock side-by-side, obstructing views and requiring you to pass through other ships to embark and disembark. To embark and disembark in these circumstances, a walkway is established between neighbouring ships, and passengers simply walk through to the shore.

Changes in Programs: Scenic Tours reserves the right to change vessels at any time for any reason including water level problems, excessive winds or ‘force majeure’ event. In the event of water level problems on stretches of any river, it may be necessary to operate part of the itinerary by motor coach. If this occurs, the ship detailed in your documents may change. For further details please refer to our full Terms and Conditions.

Cruise Director: Whether you’re looking for theatre tickets, a local landmark or a service to the nearest golf course, our Cruise Director or the team at Reception look forward to taking care of you and also offer helpful suggestions.

On board Language: The official language on board is English. All staff, crew and local guides speak fluent English. All announcements and lectures will be presented in English.

Currency/Exchange of Money: We offer an on board currency exchange service. Contact Reception for more information when on board.

On board Account: All purchases are charged to your on-board account. The final bill can be settled in cash or by credit card at the end of the cruise. The currency on board the ship is the Euro.

Pre-Paid Money Cards: Please note Scenic Cruise Ships are unable to accept Cash Passports, Travelex Cards or similar as they do not have a function to refund on these cards.

Tipping: All gratuities and tipping on land tours and river cruises whilst with Scenic Tours are included. However, if you wish to show your gratitude for exceptional service you are welcome to do so in the box provided at Reception at the end of the cruise.

Passports: It is a requirement of the European Authorities that passports be available for inspection at any time. Therefore we will keep your passport secure in our safe at Reception.

Reception: The reception desk is staffed 24 hours a day.

Butler Service: A personal butler is available at all times for guests in our Royal, Junior Suites and all cabins located on the Danube Deck. Your service includes: packing and unpacking, complimentary ironing for two items per person per day, shoeshine, arranging cocktail drinks with friends, reservations for any additional requests such as theatre tickets, limousines, shore arrangements, salon appointments and more. Our cabin attendants are happy to deliver drinks to guests staying in other cabins at any time.

Cabin Service: The mini bar will be restocked daily. Please advise us if you require any additional drinks in your cabin. Housekeeping staff are available to serve you at any time.

Tea/Coffee: The making of tea and coffee in cabins is prohibited by law for safety reasons.

Dining: It is our pleasure to provide a maitre d' seating service for your convenience and comfort at the Crystal Dining Room for all meals. We operate an open seating service. Having a free choice of seating allows you to join friends for dinner as you wish. Breakfast and lunch are a full buffet service offering a wonderful selection of hot and cold dishes. Dinner will be à la carte and will be served personally. Beer and wine is included during the lunch and dinner service.

Portobello's Italian Restaurant: Scenic Cruises are pleased to offer a second dining experience on board our ‘Scenic Space-Ships’. Every guest has the opportunity of dining in this intimate environment at least once per 14 night cruise.

Dietary Requests: If you have special dietary requests, please advise your travel agent or Scenic Tours at least 2 weeks prior to departure, and also advise the your Cruise Director. Please note that facilities to accommodate special dietary requests on board are limited and, while the chefs will try to accommodate requests, no guarantees can be made.

Refreshments: All Scenic Cruises provide an additional specialised tea and coffee service for your enjoyment at no additional charge. This self-service, state-of-the-art facility is located in the lounge and available at your convenience.

Air Conditioning and Heating: All cabins have individually controlled air conditioning, allowing you to regulate the temperature to your own needs.

Electricity: On board electricity is 220 volt.

Bicycles: We provide bicycles on board for your convenience and we encourage you to take the opportunity to make use of the many scenic rides along the waterways and local villages. A safety helmet and bike lock is provided. Please contact reception for bookings.

Safe: There is a safe in every passenger cabin. Please contact reception or housekeeping staff for assistance. Please remember to remove all items from the safe before disembarking the vessel at the end of your cruise.

Telephone: With your cabin telephone you may call cabin to cabin and also outside the ship.

Television: For your enjoyment we feature state-of-the-art satellite televisions. For technical reasons reception may be interrupted during particular parts of the journey or while we pass through locks.

Internet: The internet on the ships is intermittent. Connectivity is variable and is impacted by bridges, locks and mountains etc. The internet is not broadband speed and cannot be used to download large amounts of data (e.g. videos, music etc).

DVD'S: There are a limited number of DVD’s available and there is a charge for any in room DVD or internet connection.

Dress Code: There is no special dress code on board. A casual atmosphere prevails during the day either on excursion or on board the ship. For the evening meal there is no requirement for formal jackets or ties and casual evening attire is welcomed. However as the welcome and farewell evenings are more formal occasions you may wish to dress accordingly. There also will also be entertainment nights that you may wish to dress up for. Please note shorts are not appropriate for the evening meal.

Bathrobes: You will be provided with a Scenic Cruises bathrobe in your cabin for the duration of the cruise. Should you wish to purchase one, you may order from the gift shop.

Laundry Service: We provide an on board service for all laundry for a fee. You will find the order form in your wardrobe and housekeeping will collect this from your cabin.

Travel Irons: The use of travel irons in cabins is prohibited by law for safety reasons. There is a pressing service available on board at a charge.

Hairdryers: There is a hairdryer in every passenger cabin.

Public Bathrooms: In some locations you will be charged a small fee when using a public bathroom. We recommend you carry a small amount of local currency with you at all times.

Smoking: Smoking is not permitted inside any of the motor coaches or on board the Scenic River Cruise Ships. Inclusive of the public areas, smoking is not permitted in the cabins or on the private balconies. A small designated area on the Sun Deck is available for those who require this facility. Smoking is also permitted on the observation deck, except during operating hours of Portobello’s Restaurant.

Entertainment: Every evening in the lounge, a musician will perform for your enjoyment. We will also welcome special guest performers on board to entertain you.

Library: You may borrow books from the ship's library, free of charge. Please return any books that you have borrowed before the end of the cruise.

Hairdresser: Our hairdresser is available in the salon located on the Moselle deck. You can make an appointment for a selection of hair services with Reception.

Massage: The massage facilities are located in our wellness room on the Moselle Deck. You can make an appointment with Reception.

Gift Shop: Daily essentials from toothpaste to shaving items may be purchased from our on board shop located in the Atrium. Logo items are also available in the shop.

Questionnaire: We kindly ask you to fill in the questionnaire given to you at the end of the cruise. We are looking forward to all comments in order to constantly improve our service.

Is there anything specific I should be aware of on the cruise ship through Russia and in theUkraine?

Docking at European Ports: Please be aware that when docking at some European ports there may be several other cruise ships docking at the same place. It is common practice on many rivers in Europe for cruise ships to dock side by side in popular towns. To disembark in these circumstances, a walkway is established between neighbouring ships, and passengers simply walk through to the shore.

On board Language: The on board language is English. Your Cruise Manager and all key staff and tour guides speak English and all shipboard announcements and lectures are in English. More junior shipboard crew members will speak and understand English, but may not be completely fluent.

Tap Water: We recommend you avoid drinking the ship's tap water. Bottled water is available for purchase on board the ship. The ice machine produces ice from purified water. For all port stops, it is best to drink bottled water.

Not Included Items: Bottled water, specialty coffee/teas, soft drinks, alcoholic and other beverages, laundry, phone calls and other items of a personal nature are not included in your cruise cost.

Cuisine & Dining Room Service: You’ll enjoy fine cuisine and excellent views in your ship’s dining room, featuring a warm decor, large windows, and white-linen and china table settings. Our professional chefs will create unique menus for you that feature regional specialties. Also fine wines, beer, and Russian and Ukrainian vodkas are available for purchase. Passengers may also bring a bottle of their own favourite wine to dinner to enjoy at their table. Should you care to avail yourself of this service, there will be a corkage fee of approximately $5.00 per bottle, charged to your passenger account. Please note that if you bring your own alcohol aboard, it can only be consumed in the dining room as described above, or in your cabin. Consumption of alcohol purchased outside the ship is not permitted in the lounge or public areas.

Open-table, single seating for all meals: Each meal is open seating and reservations of any kind are not accepted. Dinner has only one designated time for its open seating, announced each day aboard ship.

Dining times: Dining times for all meals may vary depending on the day’s sightseeing and sailing schedule, but in general, meal times are as follows: Breakfast: 07.00-09.00, Lunch: 12.00-13.30, Dinner: 19.00-21.00.

Dress code: The dining-room dress code is casual, though most travellers dress nicely for the Captain’s Welcome Reception and Farewell Dinner.

Medical Services: Our fleet adheres to stringent European safety standards. In addition to an emergency call button in all cabins, the ship also features fully staffed reception desks, 24 hours a day. A physician is on board to provide professional first aid and medical advice in case you need these services.

Electricity: The electric current in Russia is 220V with European-style outlets. Aboard the ship, the cabins are equipped with both 110V and 220V, European-style outlets. If you bring any small appliances, you might need a standard European plug adapter (and a transformer in the 220V plugs) in order to operate them in your cabin. Since transformers tend to burn out, we suggest you take only dual voltage appliances that work on both 110 and 220/240 voltage. Transformer/adapter kits can usually be found at your local hardware store. Another option is to use battery-charged appliances—then you don’t need a plug adapter or transformer, just an ample supply of batteries.

Hairdryers: Hairdryers are in each cabin.

On board Shop: On board your ship you will find a small souvenir shop which sells only certified authentic local products. (Please note that the shop does not sell personal items such as toothbrushes or other toiletries.)

Laundry: Laundry service is available for a fee. Please note that neither self-service laundry facilities nor dry cleaning services are available.

Televisions: Staterooms have televisions featuring channels with some U.S. or English programming.

Newspapers: English language newspapers are extremely limited in the rural areas of Russia through which you travel. You are likely to find them only in St. Petersburg and Moscow.

Elevator/Chairlift: The ship has one elevator, however, the elevator only provides access from the main deck to the boat deck. It does not go to the Sun deck. The ship is not equipped with wheelchair access.

Embarkation/Disembarkation: On the day you board your ship, your cabin will be available at around 14.00. On the day of disembarkation, your cabin will no longer be available after breakfast. You may sit in the ship’s lounge or on the Sun Deck until disembarkation.

Hair Salon: There is a hair salon/hairdresser available. Appointments can be made through the ship reception desk.

Lounge/Bar: There are two bars on board, open from 10.00-Midnight. The bars offer soft drinks, beer, wine, and liquors for sale. Prices are in Russian rubles and payment is accepted only in Russian rubles. U.S. dollars and Euros are not accepted. Bar bills may be charged to your room account.

Recreational Facilities: These include a sun deck with lounge, library, and lounge with bar and dance floor.

Please Note: Schedules and activities are subject to change depending upon river water levels, port accessibility and weather conditions. We appreciate your understanding if changes to the listed itinerary need to be made. Costs for optional tours are approximate; actual costs will be quoted on board. Due to mechanical problems with the fountains at Peterhof Palace and the scheduled times of our tours, the fountains may not be working during your visit.

How much foreign money should I bring with me?
Before you leave on your trip, it is a good idea to obtain a small amount of cash in the currency of the country you arrive in. If it is not possible to obtain the currency you require, then it can be purchased at the airport on arrival. Many locations will accept travellers cheques or credit cards. For incidentals and small vendors we recommend getting some local currency.

Are all credit cards accepted on all legs of the tour?
EuroCard, MasterCard, Visa and American Express cards are accepted in all countries in major shops, restaurants and hotels as well as to settle your shipboard account. Before travelling ensure your credit cards are valid for at least 30 days after the completion of the tour. We recommend that you have a pin number for your credit cards, as many businesses now only accept payment with a pin. Also ask your credit card company for the emergency number (suitable for international access) to report loss. Some shops and restaurants require a minimum purchase amount when using them. Due to increasing credit card fraud worldwide, be prepared to show identification (i.e. your passport) when making a transaction with your credit card. Most credit cards charge a fee (about 3%) for currency exchange, which means that every time you use your credit card, you add this fee to the price of goods and services. Check with your credit card company before you go to see what their policy is. It may be worthwhile to take more than one type of credit card as not all types of credit cards are accepted.

Is it easy to exchange cash?
You can exchange cash or travellers cheques at hotels, banks and exchange bureaus as well as small amounts of currency on board your ship for most local currencies, for a fee.

Are ATMs readily available?
Yes, using a debit or credit card is becoming a popular method of obtaining money whilst travelling. In most cases, you pay only your usual bank fee rather than a commission, although this may vary depending on your bank’s policy. Generally, you will get the best available exchange rate as well. Be sure to check with your bank before departing to activate your card and don’t forget to bring your pin number. We suggest however that you don’t rely on ATM’s for all your spending money, as machines may be unreliable. The best idea is to take a mix of cards and travellers cheques so that you are always covered.

Can I take travellers cheques or pre-paid travel money cards?
Yes and they can be easily obtained from your bank. You will find it an advantage to have your travellers cheques in a currency that is easily exchanged such as US dollars or Pounds Sterling and pre-paid travel money cards can be loaded with the currencies of the destinations you are travelling to. Remember to make a separate note of all the numbers and denominations of your travellers cheques as well as an international emergency contact phone number in case of loss or theft. It is worth carrying some cheques in small denominations as it may be difficult to cash larger cheques in hotels and shops. Travellers cheques can be changed at your hotel or a local bank. Many banks charge a set rate, so it could be worth your while cashing more money, less often. Banks usually offer a better rate of exchange than hotels, restaurants and large shops.

Please note: Scenic cruise ships are unable to accept Cash Passports, Travelex Cards or similar as they do not have a function to refund on these cards.

Does Scenic Tours cover tips?
Yes, Scenic Tours has pre-paid certain tips and gratuities for you, including all drivers, local guides, porters (1 piece of luggage only), and meals included in your tour.

Please note: Tipping is NOT included for meals, drinks, taxis and transfers that are not included as part of the tour (including Asian stopovers). As a guide for taxis, tip 10-15% of the fare on the meter. We recommend you pre-negotiate taxi fares to avoid unpleasant surprises at the end of the journey. In restaurants and bars, tip 10-15% of the total bill. If a service charge has already been added there is no need to tip as much or at all.

What hours are most shops open?
In Europe, stores may close earlier than back home and are usually not open on Sundays (nor Saturday afternoons in some places).

Are there any taxes on shopping?
Many countries have a national sales tax (called VAT) that is levied on most goods and services. In some cases and with the proper documentation from the point-of-purchase, it is possible to have a portion of this tax refunded to you on items taken out of a country in unused condition. Depending upon flight schedules and timing, it may be possible to receive a refund by applying at the airport kiosk before departure.

What are the customs allowances on return to Australia?
Apart from personal effects, returning travellers over 18 years of age are allowed to bring into Australia the following goods duty free:

• Alcohol – 2.25 litres
• Cigarettes and Tobacco – 250 grams or 50 cigars

Other articles up to a total combined value of AUD$900 are free of duty and tax, but goods in excess of this may attract both.

What do I need to be aware of relating to foreign customs?
All countries you will visit have laws against the purchase and export of certain items, including antiquities, national cultural property and certain animal products, especially endangered species (ivory, rhino horn, tortoise shell, coral, feathers, etc.). Additionally, Australia has laws prohibiting the import of certain items, which include many of the same things. You face having your purchase confiscated and/or heavy fines for exporting or importing prohibited items. On departure from Europe and on return to Australia, your luggage is subject to search.

How do I make telephone calls back to Australia?
Phoning home from hotels is expensive. All hotels will add a service charge to the cost of any phone calls you make from your room. This charge can be very high. It is always cheaper for you to use public telephones. If you decide to make a direct call to Australia – always remember to dial the international access code 00 followed by the country code 61 (Australia), the area code (without the 0) and your phone number. Local phone cards are available at tobacco stores, kiosks and post offices.

Are internet cafés readily available?
Yes, internet cafés are throughout Europe and are a much more cost-effective way of communicating with friends and family than by telephone.

Can you accommodate special dietary requirements?
Yes. If you have not already advised your travel agent at the time of booking please let your Tour Director know at the start of the tour any special needs or dietary requirements so they can be best accommodated. Remember your favourite food items will not always be available.

What type of food can I expect?
Be mindful that meals on tour will often reflect the local cuisine and delicacies, which may be different to what you are normally accustomed to. Your dining experiences are certain to enhance your tour and introduce you to the local region and culture.

What else should I be aware of?
Europeans generally dine slightly later than might be your custom and they tend to be less sensitive to issues regarding smoking.

How do I judge how safe it is to travel in these countries?
You must make your own inquiries regarding safety warnings and government warnings in relation to the destinations you are travelling to. These change quite regularly and can be found through the Department of Foreign Affairs Travel Advisory website. Scenic Tours can accept no responsibility for the actions of terrorism etc in certain locations.

Are pickpockets prevalent?
Crowded tourist sites all over the world are at pickpocket risk so you should always be on alert. Keep your money hidden preferably in an inside pocket or money belt. Make two photocopies of valuables such as your passport, tickets, visas and travellers cheques. Keep one copy with you in a separate place to the original and leave another copy with someone at home.

What else should I be aware of?
While travelling don't carry too much cash and remember that expensive watches, jewellery and cameras may be tempting targets for thieves.

What side of the road do cars drive?
Be aware that motorists drive on the right on the continent of Europe, so take care when crossing roads. Please also pay particular attention to bicycle lanes, which are often on the sidewalk. In The Netherlands a red pavement usually designates them. Exercise utmost care when crossing them as trams also often cross or share bicycle and pedestrian paths.

What do I do if my passport is lost or stolen?
Your passport is a valuable document that is attractive to criminals who may try to use your identity to commit crimes. It should always be kept in a safe place. You are required by Australian law to report a lost or stolen passport. If your passport is lost or stolen overseas, report it online or contact the nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate as soon as possible.

What else should I be aware of?
Air-conditioning is not yet as popular in Europe as back home and you may not find it everywhere. In some places due to environmental concerns it is strictly regulated.

European festive days, especially religious holidays, are quite numerous. On these occasions, particularly in May/June, you may find services in general slightly reduced.

Are there any unforseen costs I should be aware of?
Sometimes there is a small charge for public toilets, food and drinks usually cost more and the service may be a little more leisurely than you might expect.

Are there any restrictions on photography?
It may not be possible to use your camera or video camera at some sites of interest, or there may be a fee; please ask your Tour Director for further details. Not everyone might appreciate being on your souvenir home video or holiday photo, so please respect the privacy of local people and cruise directors/local guides by asking permission before filming or taking a photograph, especially in holy places.