IMPORTANT NOTICE: Vantage Status Update  (Updated: 6/29/2023).

On June 29, 2023, Vantage filed a petition for relief under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code in the Bankruptcy Court for the District of Massachusetts.  All reservation activity is suspended pending the conclusion of the sale proceedings.


Additional Information will be made available once the process is completed and no later than 1 September, 2023.


See Vantage FAQ for full Details

Ultimate Africa Adventure: Southern & East Africa Deluxe Safari - 2023

Your 30-night journey includes: 2 nights at a Deluxe hotel in Johannesburg; 3 nights at a luxury tented camp in Kruger National Park; 3 nights at The Wallow, Victoria Falls in Victoria Falls National Park; 3 nights at Iganyana Tented Camp in Hwange National Park; 3 nights at a Deluxe safari resort in Chobe National Park; 2 nights at a Deluxe hotel in Nairobi; 2 nights at a Deluxe safari lodge in Amboseli National Park; 2 nights at a Deluxe safari lodge in Lake Manyara National Park; 2 nights at a Deluxe safari lodge in Tanzania; 2 nights at a Deluxe safari lodge in Serengeti National Park; 2 nights at a luxury tented camp in Serengeti National Park; 2 nights at a Deluxe safari lodge in Masai Mara National Park; 1 night at a Deluxe hotel in Nairobi
  • Panorama, Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, Africa
    WALK TO VICTORIA FALLS VIEWPOINTS TO MARVEL AT THE POWER OF THE WORLD’S LARGEST CURTAIN OF FALLING WATER
  • Chobe River Photo Safari
    LEARN HOW TO TAKE PROFESSIONAL-QUALITY PHOTOS ON A CHOBE RIVER GUIDED PHOTOGRAPHIC SAFARI
  • SEARCH FOR "THE BIG FIVE" AT KRUGER NATIONAL PARK, AFRICA'S LARGEST GAME RESERVE
  • ROUND OUT THIS REMARKABLE JOURNEY WITH AN EXTENSION TO CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA
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Before You Go

From money matters to packing tips, we’ve got all the information you need to prepare for your upcoming Vantage journey. Just click on an item below to read more about it.

Passports & Visas

Planning your trip

Your trip will be here before you know it! Here's some information specific to the destinations you'll be visiting to help you prepare for your journey.

Travel Documentation

A passport is required for this trip. Your passport must be valid for at least six months after the scheduled return date of your vacation. Bring with you a photocopy of the pages of your passport that contain your personal information and extra passport photographs. These are useful in the event of loss.

Passport and Visa

The following information applies to U.S. citizens only. Those traveling on other than a U.S. passport must contact the embassies or consulates of the countries to be visited for further information and special requirements.
Country Passport Visa
Botswana Y N
South Africa Y N
Zimbabwe Y Y
Zambia Y Y
Kenya Y Y
Tanzania Y Y

A visa to Zimbabwe is required and can be obtained upon arrival into Zimbabwe. The amount is $45 USD for a double entry visa for U.S. citizens. For non-U.S. citizens, the price may vary.

A visa to Zambia is required. Please be advised that you will arrive in Victoria Falls from Livingstone Airport in Zambia and transfer to the Zimbabwean side of Victoria Falls enroute to Hwange National Park. Because Zambia is an additional country on your itinerary, you will need to purchase a Zambian single-entry visa when we arrive in Zambia. (This can only be purchased in person using U.S. dollars at the point of arrival.) The cost of the single entry Zambian visa is $50 USD per person.

A visa to Kenya is required. The government of Kenya has introduced an electronic visa application. Travelers wishing to visit Kenya need to apply as follows in this instructional word document. It is important to have a printed copy of your Kenyan e-visa on hand for customs and immigration.

For Tanzania travel, please apply for an e-visa in advance online at www.immigration.go.tz. Visitors arriving in Tanzania via airports and land borders without having secured their visa in advance online will have to undergo an extended procedure. Online visa applications will require more information than the one asked for on arrival and will be issued within a few days. For those travelers that do not wish or do not have enough time to apply for an e-visa, the new process to get a visa on arrival will require a lengthy process that could take up to two hours. We strongly recommend that all Tanzania travelers apply online for an e-visa. This is especially important for travelers with onward connections both by air or road after arriving to Tanzania.

Tanzania Multiple Entry Visa
This Visa may be issued to foreign nationals whose purposes of visits call for frequent visits to the United Republic of Tanzania. These may include Directors of Companies registered in Tanzania who do not reside in the country, Persons engaged in Bilateral Meetings, Spouses married to Tanzanians/Residents, Government Consultants, Representatives of international NGO’s and any other person as may be determined by the Commissioner General of Immigration or Commissioner of Immigration Zanzibar.

This Visa (Multiple) is also issued to American citizens who wish to come for Holiday or Tourism purposes, as they are not entitled for Ordinary Visa. The maximum validity of this Visa is 12 months. However, the holder of the Multiple Visa cannot stay in the country for twelve (12) consecutive months. They are required to leave the country at most after every three months.

American nationals who wish to visit Tanzania for tourism or holiday purposes MUST select this type of Visa while applying online.

Multiple Entry Visa Requirements:
  • Copy of the applicant’s valid passport (biographic data page);
  • 100 USD Visa fee;
  • Valid passport or national ID of the person to be visited in Tanzania (host) OR;
  • A covering letter of the host Institution detailing the reasons and frequency of Visits OR;
  • Attached Certificate of marriage of a spouse and a passport/national ID, if the applicant comes to visit a spouse OR;
  • Any proof that justifies that a visitor is required to visit the United Republic of Tanzania frequently;
  • Return ticket of the flight (not mandatory)

Should the above requirements change, you will be notified in a mailing prior to departure. All visa, entry requirements, and fees are subject to change without advance notification by action of the government and port authorities. Vantage is not responsible for any additional charges resulting from such changes. For up-to-date information, please visit Generations Visa at http://www.genvisa.com/vantage

IMPORTANT: No visa is needed for entry to South Africa. However, your passport must contain twice two blank pages side by side for South Africa and two blank pages side by side for Zimbabwe (a total of six pages). If your passport does not contain six blank pages in this configuration, you will need to get your passport reissued before you depart on this trip. Pages marked for amendments and endorsements do not count toward this requirement. Airlines strictly enforce this requirement and may deny boarding for failure to comply.

Be advised, there are stringent documentation requirements for all persons under 18 years to present an “unabridged” birth certificate at check-in in addition to a valid passport when entering, departing or transiting South Africa. An “unabridged” birth certificate contains the individuals’ birth date, place of birth, gender, and full name, as well as the birth date, place of their birth, and citizenship of the individual’s mother and father. This requirement applies to minors of all nationalities whether traveling unaccompanied, accompanied with both parents, a single parent, or other adults.

Should the above requirements change, you will be notified in a mailing prior to departure. All visa, entry requirements, and fees are subject to change without advance notification by action of the government and port authorities. Vantage is not responsible for any additional charges resulting from such changes.
For up-to-date information, please visit Generations Visa at http://www.genvisa.com/vantage

U.S. Customs Information

If you are traveling internationally, it is important to understand U.S. Customs regulations including required documents that are valid at least six months following your departure date, rules for bringing back items, and duty-free exemption. Please click the link below to visit the U.S. Customs website and read their helpful info, "Know Before You Go."

View "Know Before You Go"
(Link opens new browser window.)


Gratuities

We realize that tipping can be confusing on a group tour, so we've included the following recommended guidelines for gratuities:

  • Gratuities for local guides and drivers now included!
  • Included Meals: Gratuities are included
  • Outside Dining: Varies according to local customs; your Adventure Leader will advise
  • Vantage Adventure Leader on base program: $10 - $12 per person per day, cash only
  • Vantage Adventure Leader or City Host on extensions: $10 - $12 per person per day, cash only
  • Porterage: Included except in Customs areas

Please note: Gratuities on this trip can be made in cash only, in U.S. dollars


Ship to Shore: The Vantage Safe Travel Initiative

We’ve planned our journeys around memorable destinations and experiences with your health, safety, and security always in mind. Following guidance from the World Health Organization, the Center for Disease Control, local foreign governments, and our partners from around the world, we’re taking it to the next level. We've implemented vital health & safety assurances on all our journeys. Learn more about Vantage's Safe Travel Initiative.


Vaccinations

All travelers must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 — including a booster shot — at least 14 days prior to the departure of their journey. Travelers will be required to show proof of vaccination displaying their name, date of doses, and vaccine type to embark. Travelers who cannot produce proof of vaccination will have to return home at their own expense.

Specific entry requirements for your chosen destination

To ensure that you have a smooth travel experience, you will need to know the requirements for both your specific airline carrier and the country you’ll arrive in prior to your departure. We’ve listed some considerations below to help you plan.

  • Entry into most countries will require you to show proof of a negative PCR COVID-19 test. For country-specific information about entry requirements and COVID-19 status, visit the U.S. Department’s COVID-19 Country Specific Information page
  • Vantage will facilitate onsite PCR tests for border crossings and re-entry into the United States. Travelers will be responsible for the cost of testing
  • We highly recommend that you contact your air carrier prior to departure to confirm what their requirements are for take-off and landing


Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for travel to Kenya and Tanzania. Malaria prophylactics are also strongly advised.

Please note: The Botswana Tourism Organization charges a tourism levy of $30 US per person. The fee is payable in cash or by credit card when entering Botswana.

Please note: Those who are traveling to malaria risk areas such as Kruger National Park, South Africa, and Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe and all areas of Kenya and Tanzania, can almost always prevent this potentially deadly disease if they correctly take an effective antimalarial drug and follow measures to prevent mosquito bites. Some things that travelers can use to protect themselves include malaria pills, insect repellent, long-sleeved clothing, bednet, and flying insect spray.

For more information on health related issues while travelling overseas, contact the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) by logging onto http://www.cdc.gov/travel or or calling toll free 1 (800) 232-4636.

Climate/Time Zone

Time Differences

Country Time Difference
South Africa +6 hours
Botswana +6 hours
Zimbabwe +6 hours
Kenya +8 hours
Tanzania +7 hours

Note: The above times are based on Eastern Standard Time.

Climate

Use the chart below to get an overview of the average temperatures at your destination. Average High/Low Temperature (Fahrenheit)


Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec
Johannesburg H 77 75 74 69 66 60 61 65 71 73 74 76
L 60 59 58 53 48 42 42 46 51 54 56 59
Kruger National Park H 82 82 80 78 77 73 73 75 78 78 80 82
L 64 64 62 57 48 42 42 46 51 57 60 62
Cape Town* H 77 78 76 72 67 64 62 63 65 69 72 75
L 63 63 60 56 52 58 57 58 51 54 58 61
Chobe National Park H 90 89 88 87 82 77 77 83 91 95 94 91
L 67 66 63 58 49 42 42 47 55 64 66 66
Victoria Falls H 83 82 82 78 75 71 71 75 81 83 84 82
L 64 64 63 59 54 49 49 52 58 61 64 64
Nairobi H 77 80 80 76 74 73 71 72 76 78 75 75
L 58 58 60 61 59 56 54 54 55 58 60 59
Lake Manyara National Park H 84 84 81 77 72 70 69 72 76 80 81 81
L 50 51 53 57 52 48 49 48 47 51 51 50
Amboseli National Park H 82 82 81 77 73 72 72 73 77 81 81 81
L 61 61 63 63 63 59 57 57 59 61 63 61
Ngorongoro Crater H 73 73 72 70 68 66 66 68 70 72 72 72
L 50 50
 50 52 50 46 46 46 46 48 50 50
Serengeti National Park H 84 84 84 82 81 81 79 81 82 84 82 82
L 61 61 61 61 61 59 57 59 59 61 61 61
Masai Mara National Park H 82 82 81 79 77 77 77 77 81 82 81 81
L 54 54 54 55 55 54 52 52 54 54 54 54

* Pre-extension only

Money Matters

Country      Unit of Currency  
South Africa    Rand Get Exchange Rate
Botswana Pula Get Exchange Rate
Zimbabwe Dollar Get Exchange Rate
Kenya Kenyan shilling Get Exchange Rate
Tanzania Tanzanian shilling Get Exchange Rate

With ATMs and bureau de changes found throughout Africa's major towns, you can access cash pretty much anywhere. Most African countries accept U.S. dollars as their currency of choice, but you'll need Rand (ZAR) for South Africa.

As for cards, Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted across the continent. Amex and Diners Club cards are not accepted widely in Africa.

Packing Guidelines

You may find the packing information below helpful as you begin to prepare for your upcoming journey.

Electronic devices

Bring your iPad, Kindles, and/or smart phones. This way you will have access to city guides, the post-trip survey and trip information while on tour. This will also allow you to take pictures and communicate with friends and family easier.

Luggage Restrictions

To help make your travel experience as smooth and simple as possible, Vantage recommends you limit your luggage to one large suitcase and one small carry-on bag per person. Although airlines will generally allow more luggage, the transportation on your Vantage tour may have stricter space limitations. Domestic and international carriers currently restrict weight limitations to 44 pounds per bag.

Your program involves multiple domestic flights on small aircraft. Luggage allowances are very strictly enforced. The maximum weight of checked luggage per person on internal flights is 20 kg or 44 lbs. Hand luggage cannot exceed 8 kg or 17 lbs. We recommend soft-sided carry-on bags only. This is strictly enforced.

Travel Light

Most travelers pack much more than they really need. We recommend that you start packing a few days before your trip, so you have time to remember everything that you need — and to decide what is essential and what is not. And don't forget to leave room for souvenirs and gifts you may purchase during your trip.
Besides the basic necessities and the items covered below, you'll want to pack sunglasses, a hat or visor, and sunscreen for daytime use. You might also want to bring a small, alarm clock, pocket tissues, a travel pack of soap powder, needle, thread, safety pins, and a personal face cloth. In many countries, your washcloth is considered to be of intimate usage and is not provided by hotels.
Depending on your destination, you may also want to bring insect repellent (we recommend repellent with a high "deet" content). Binoculars are also handy when travelling to areas where flora and fauna may be observed. Some tours may also require an overnight bag for optional overnight excursions. We suggest visiting our Safari Essentials Shop to buy everything you'll need for your adventure!

Clothing for Africa

Your travel wardrobe should be planned according to the climate of the areas you will be visiting and the length of your stay. A HELPFUL HINT — Plan to avail yourself of the laundry and valet services available for an additional fee. Weather is never predictable so be sure to be prepared for just about anything. Plan to dress in layers so you can adjust to temperature changes throughout the day. You’ll want to take along a sweater, jacket or fleece sweatshirt for cool evenings, and sunglasses, sunhat, or visor and sunscreen for daytime use. Long pants are necessary for colder temperatures and sun and insect protection at certain times of the year. During the winter months in South Africa (May-August) it can get very cold, and you will be game viewing in an open moving vehicle, so warm clothing is a must. Please note that in Cape Town in the winter it can be wet and cold. Rain gear and warm clothing are essential. One of the most important items is, of course, comfortable walking shoes for touring. You might consider lightweight hiking boots for increased ankle support. We also recommend you bring a pair of rubberized sandals (i.e., Tevas) for showering, wearing around the lodge, and general warm weather use. They will come in particularly handy when you walk through wet areas in Victoria Falls National Park. We suggest you refrain from purchasing new walking shoes just prior to departure.

Dress on safari is functional and casual. Generally, khaki and other earth tones are your best color choices because they allow you to blend into the scenery.

Besides the basics, we suggest a practical raincoat and/or a fold-up umbrella, swimsuit and pool slippers, and any other accessories that may add to your comfort. Binoculars are handy when traveling to areas where flora and fauna may be observed. On safari, binoculars are essential for game viewing. Each person will want to bring a pair of binoculars with them on tour. You might also add insect repellent (with Deet), a small alarm clock, small battery-powered flashlight, personal face cloth, pocket tissues, travel pack of soap powder, needle, thread, and safety pins.

Suggested Packing List 

  • 3 short-sleeved cotton shirts. Polo-style shirts are more versatile than T-shirts
  • 2 long-sleeved cotton shirts — for sun protection as well as for warmth
  • Trousers: 2 long pairs, comfortable and loose-fitting. One lighter, one a bit heavier for warmth in the evening. We recommend lightweight safari-style trousers that zip off at the knee to be worn as shorts. They are available at most outdoor outfitting and clothing stores. Consider taking one pair of pants chinos, or a smart casual style trouser that you can wear for evenings out in Cape Town and Cape Winelands
  • 2 pairs of walking shorts
  • 5 or 6 changes of underwear
  • Light fleece or wool sweater
  • Very light jacket. A waterproof/breathable jacket can double as a windbreaker. This should be sized to fit over your sweater
  • Sleepwear: 1 to 2 pairs of light- or medium-weight pajamas
  • Wide-brim sun hat

For Fall and Winter (May-August), add these cool-weather items to your list:

  • Medium-weight long underwear top and bottom. Look for Capilene, Lifa, or similar
  • At least one of your long-sleeved shirts should be of a warm, heavy fabric for cool nights. Flannel or knit is ideal
  • During the winter, it is cold. You may not need both pairs of shorts, and you may want to substitute a warm sleeping outfit or a pair of long pants
  • A warm, insulated jacket in addition to a wool or fleece sweater. If you own a light- or medium-weight insulated field jacket or parka, you can use that, if you like
  • Warm hat and a wool scarf (needed on the game-drive vehicles)
  • Medium-weight gloves for early morning and evening outings
  • Warm sleepwear for winter

Footwear

  • Comfortable walking, running, or hiking shoes. Look for shoes with good arch support. Also look for something that allows good ventilation, while keeping out the dust. If you bring hiking boots, we recommend mid-cut, lightweight ones. Anything heavier will be superfluous
  • Sport sandals. These are highly recommended for showering, lounging poolside, and for walking at Victoria Falls National Park. Good brands include Tevas, Nike, Merrell, and others.
  • 2 to 4 pairs of socks. During May to August, one or two pairs should be warm hiking socks made of wool, Capilene or Thermax

Game Drives and Viewing
Please note that binoculars are not readily available to rent, so each person should bring a small, compact pair from home.

Rain Gear

We suggest a practical raincoat or waterproof shell with a hood, and/or a fold-up umbrella. The shell could also be worn with other layers in lower temperatures.

Good Walking Shoes

One of the most important items you'll need for any vacation is, of course, comfortable walking shoes for touring. We suggest you refrain from purchasing new walking shoes just prior to departure — it's best to wear a broken-in pair that you know are comfortable.

Pool and Sauna Apparel

On many programs, some accommodations will feature pools. So if you plan to use them, bring along a swimsuit and pool slippers.

Cameras and Film

Be sure to test the working order of your camera before you leave home, and to insure your equipment against loss and damage. It is also important to take along an ample supply of film. Film can be expensive and specific kinds of film may not be available in certain areas. Some airport x-ray equipment may harm valuable film. For utmost protection, film should be packed separately in hand luggage. Also, be sure to bring at least one extra battery for your camera.
If you are using a digital camera, check on how many images you can take on your memory card at the resolution you are using. You may wish to bring along an extra memory card so you will not run out of memory half way through the trip. Bring along the battery charger, but remember you may need a voltage converter. The alternative is to carry a spare charged battery with you.

Valuables

Please remember that it is not wise to bring valuables with you when you travel. If you decide to do so, please carry them on your person when flying. Make sure to use hotel safe deposit boxes or safes to ensure the safety of possessions that you may want to have with you.

What to Leave Behind

Do not pack aerosol cans; they tend to leak during air travel. Also avoid packing glass bottles; use plastic containers instead. Leave at home any credit cards and checkbooks that you don't anticipate using on your trip; valuable jewelry; brand-new shoes (instead pack your most comfortable walking shoes); and, in general, anything that you would hate to lose.

As of 2019, Kenya and Tanzania have implemented a ban on single use plastic bags. Included in the ban are the following items that travelers might carry:

  • Duty free carrier bags
  • General shopping bags
  • Bin liners (sometimes used to protect luggage during rain)
  • Dry cleaning bags (commonly wrapped around clothing)
  • Duty free carrier bags
  • General shopping bags

Travelers arriving into Kenya or Tanzania via airports, sea ports, or land borders will be required to leave any bags deemed to be on the banned list at the point of entry. Travelers will not be fined so long as they surrender any prohibited bags.

The following options are suitable replacements:

  • Paper bags
  • Durable “bag for life” bags
  • Bags made from cloth, woven grass, or sisal

Electric Current 

Before you go on your safari vacation to Africa, make sure you have the correct travel adapter with you before you leave home. When traveling, you will be surprised how quickly the batteries of a camera will be used up, and how much we rely on having access to electricity. Most safari lodges/hotels will have an adapter to borrow should you need it, but it is always best to have your own. Below is a list of countries and the adapters you will need for each of them.

If you are looking to buy a travel adapter plug for Africa, we recommend the Belkin F8E449 Universal AC Travel Adapter, which you can purchase from Amazon. Please note there is no fully universal plug available for Africa, but this one is the closest to covering most of the plug options you will need. Below is a short description of the electric plugs for countries is Southern and Eastern Africa.

Botswana: Electric plug M, 230V, 50Hz. Electric plug G (but rare)
When traveling to Botswana, we recommend you have an electrical plug M. Electric plug M is technically known as BS 546 (South African 15 A/250 V). It has been adopted as the standard plug in South Africa. The Type G electrical plug is the British three-pin, but is rarely found in use in Botswana.

South Africa: Electric plug M 220/230V 50Hz. In some areas plug C & G
Electric power plug M has the official name of BS 546. Type M is a “15 A/250 V” version of electric plug D: 220/230V 50 Hz. Note that electric plug M is larger than D, thus plug D is not compatible in South Africa.

Zimbabwe: Electrical plug D & G. 220V and 50Hz
Residents of Zimbabwe, use plug D & G. The technical name for the Type D plug and receptacle is the BS 546 (5 A/250 V earthed). It is also known as the Old British Plug. The Type G plug is commonly known as the 13-amp plug, and technically known as the BS 1363 (British 13 A/230-240 V 50 Hz earthed and fused).

Kenya: Electrical plug G / Tanzania: Electrical plug D or G. 230V-240V
Electricity in Kenya and Tanzania is 230-240 volts. In the U.S. it is 110 volts. Most of the things a traveler will want to plug in—battery chargers, MP3 players, tablets or computers—can run off both 110 and 220-240. But you should check the item or the owner’s guide first to confirm this before you plug it in. If you have something that needs 110 volts—like a shaver or a hair dryer—you can bring a transformer to change the current. (But transformers tend to burn out, so it might be better to leave whatever it is at home.)

Flight Information

Flight Information

When planning your flights, Vantage considers each airline's reputation for quality, service, and routing options to the destination. Vantage selects flights that both serve our groups' needs and ensure the best balance of quality and cost. Our flight team members will do their utmost to select flights that will get you to your destination as quickly and easily as possible.

First and Business Class Airfare Upgrades
Many of our programs offer first and/or Business Class upgrades, for more information, please visit our FlightChoice page.

Vantage encourages you to check current airport security regulations well in advance of travel, as rules may have changed since your last trip. For the latest information on airline security guidelines and boarding procedures, please visit the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) web site.

While on Tour

While on Tour

The information below applies in general to Vantage escorted land tours.

Briefing sessions

At the beginning of your tour, a Vantage Adventure Leader will conduct an informative briefing concerning the daily schedule, local customs, and the included features of your tour. It is strongly advised that you attend this briefing.

Extending Your Trip

Vantage offers specially arranged pre- and post-extensions on many of our escorted land tours. See specific tours for details. In some cases, your Adventure Leader that will be on your base trip will be there also on the extension, but not always. On some pre- and post-extensions, there will be a Vantage representative to assist you.

Additionally, if you would like to do some exploring on your own, either before or after your tour, Vantage can help you arrange the details. In most cases, your flights can be adjusted for either an earlier arrival date or a later return date. A non-refundable administrative fee will be assessed, plus any additional costs that may apply to the air ticket and hotel. Transfers to and from your hotel are not included when traveling independent of a Vantage group. Please ask a Vantage Sales Representative for additional details. Note also that some airline contracts may exclude changes to routing.

NOTE: Should you wish to make any changes to your plans to extend your trip, please do so no later than 60 days prior to your scheduled date of departure. Change or cancellation penalties may apply to tickets once they have been issued.

Your Health & Comfort

Vantage wants you to have a safe, healthy, and happy journey. Our tours are planned to combine just the right amount of activity and leisure. For personal medical attention while on tour, your Vantage Adventure Leader can refer you to reliable physicians in the cities on your tour.

Please note that Medicare and U.S health insurance are generally not accepted in foreign destinations. If you have an insurance claim, it should be made upon your return to the USA and filed through your health insurance provider or through the Vantage Travel Protection Plan if you have purchased it. Keep relevant receipts and doctors' reports for processing your claim.

Jet Lag Precautions

When you cross several time zones to reach your destination, you often lose many hours of regular sleep. Upon arrival your body must quickly adjust to new sleeping and eating patterns. The result is jet lag. Its symptoms may include fatigue, irritability, and vague disorientation. You cannot completely avoid jet lag but you can minimize it. Here's how:

  • Try to sleep on overnight flights
  • Avoid heavy eating and drinking caffeine or alcoholic beverages right before - and during - your flight
  • Drink plenty of water and/or fruit juice while flying
  • Try to stay awake your first day until after dinner

Pace of the Tour

Vantage Tours are planned to provide a well-balanced mix of activities and free time. Certain tours, however, may prove to be more challenging than others, particularly for passengers with physical limitations.

Passengers with physical difficulties or concerns about the pace of the tour should contact their Vantage Customer Relations Representative for tips on which tours best suit their individual needs and abilities. See also Medical Issues, below.

Your Personal Safety

Please keep in mind that in any tourist destination, you need to be aware of your surroundings. We recommend that you use a money protector that can be worn around your neck. Flashy jewelry should be left at home. Never place your camera or purse down, or hang it on the back of your chair. Although incidents of theft and pickpocketing while on tour are rare, it is important to be cautious and aware.

Medical Issues

Click here to read important information about travelers with a physical, emotional, or mental condition that may require professional attention or the use of special equipment. "Medical Issues" information also appears in the "Tour Participation Agreement - Terms and Conditions" bound into Vantage catalogs and printed on the back of your invoice.

Hotels

Vantage makes every effort to reserve only hotels that offer well-appointed rooms and a central location. We remind you that quality of accommodations may vary from destination to destination. Vantage strives to provide the best hotels available that meet our standards of quality. You can check descriptions of the hotels for your chosen trip under Accommodations on the website for that trip.

How We Rate Our Hotels

While some tour companies devise their own ratings systems (based on their particular standards), Vantage ranks hotels based on the industry-accepted classifications published by the Hotel & Travel Index - the travel industry standard.

Deluxe/Moderate Deluxe ***** Outstanding accommodations in every way, offering superior service, facilities, and location.

Superior First-Class ****+ Above average accommodations, with many special amenities, including more restaurants, shops, and usually a fitness center.

First-Class/Moderate First-Class **** Comfortable, well-equipped standard rooms with private bath, attractive public areas, and amenities.

Please Note: In some areas where the hotels aren't rated, it's often due to the fact that the hotel may be too new, too remote, or too small. However, the hotel where you stay has been inspected and approved by Vantage personnel.

Religious Services

At Vantage, we count individuals from all walks of life and all religious denominations among our customers. Although we do not offer religious services on our travel programs, services may be available in the cities and towns you visit while on tour. Your Vantage Adventure Leader can advise you when religious services are available. Please keep in mind that not all religious denominations have a presence in every travel destination. We cannot guarantee the availability of religious services.

Shopping

Shopping for local merchandise is always a part of the travel experience. We are aware that local guides do recommend shops on their tours. Always keep in mind that a purchase is between the buyer and the seller. Always keep receipts and credit card copies. Shipping should always include insurance in the event of breakage. Iit is best to check with your credit card issuer for any insurance that may be included when you use your card.

Sightseeing & Cultural Connections

Vantage offers a variety of included sightseeing tours and special cultural events to enrich your travel experience and bring you "closer to the world." Our tours are specially designed for Vantage travelers. They let you feel the atmosphere, gain a cultural understanding, and become a part of the area you are visiting. They include all transportation and the services of expert local guides.

Optional Excursions

Vantage makes every effort to provide the right balance of both included activities and time for exploring on your own. We've found, however, that many of our passengers prefer an additional guided activity in lieu of free time. For that reason, some of our tours may include a limited number of optional tours and activities, which you may choose to take at a moderate fee. In no case do we replace an included sightseeing tour with an optional tour. Optional tours are strictly voluntary, providing you with the opportunity to visit an attraction that you may not see otherwise.

Taxes

All hotel taxes and hotel service charges are included in the tour price. If airport arrival and departure taxes apply, they are payable in cash at the airports and are not included.

Transfers

All transfers between airport and hotel/pier are included in conjunction with Vantage air and tour packages and will be via private transportation. Travelers purchasing their own airline tickets will be responsible for their own transfers to and from the airport/hotel/pier based on the itinerary.

Travel Itinerary

Each Vantage Escorted Land Tour is planned with two criteria in mind: It must be to an interesting destination and the tour must offer good quality at an exceptional value.

Although everything is planned well in advance of your departure, our ultimate goal is to ensure that each departure is enjoyable, interesting, and safe. Therefore, the day-by-day itinerary provided for each travel destination is subject to change depending upon local conditions. If any significant changes occur in advance of your departure, Vantage will notify you by phone or by mail. If changes occur while on tour, your Vantage Adventure Leader or local representative will notify you.

Your Vantage Adventure Leader/Local Representative

During your tour you'll be accompanied on tour by an experienced Vantage Program Manager. You will also benefit from the insights of expert Local Representatives and tour guides. Both your Adventure Leader and Local Representative can provide suggestions on the best restaurants, shops, and local sights; will help coordinate optional tours and excursions; and assist in any manner possible.

Vantage Hospitality Desk

For your convenience, a Vantage Hospitality Desk will be available daily during scheduled hours at many of the hotels on your itinerary (staffed by an experienced team of local travel professionals or by your Vantage Adventure Leader). The desk hours vary, depending on your daily scheduling. Tour members will be advised of the desk hours during the briefing held upon arrival at most hotels.

Payment Information

What does my Reservation Deposit Guarantee?

Payment of your initial deposit holds your spot on your journey. However, it does not guarantee the price of your trip. Participation in our Smart Pay Discount Plan can save you up to 10% on your Vantage trip AND it ensures that the land, cruise, and international airfare portions of your trip will not increase. This includes 100% guaranteed protection against most additional taxes (does not include entry fees or arrival taxes), fuel surcharges, and currency fluctuations, from the moment you pay in full under the terms of Vantage's SmartPay Discount Plan. If you do not participate in our SmartPay Discount Plan, all prices are subject to change.

When is my Final Payment due?

Final payments are due 90-120 days prior to departure, depending upon the program.

Can I extend my final payment due date?

Unfortunately, we are unable to extend any final payment due dates because of our vendor contractual obligations.

What is an E-Check?

ECheck is a commonly used term to refer to an online payment method via electronic check from your bank account.

What are the benefits of paying via E-Check?

Paying by E-Check is fast, easy and 100% secure – and there is no fee involved. Plus, paying by E-Check with our SmartPay Discount Program, you can realize hundreds of dollars in savings right away. When you compare those savings to the frequent flyer miles you might earn when you pay by credit card, you come out on top for two reasons: first, you enjoy your savings right away, whereas frequent flyer miles need to be accumulated over time before you cash them in; second, frequent flyer miles have restrictions of usage.

How do I make payments via an E-Check?

It's easy to set up E-Checking on My Account. Have your checkbook handy and simply go to the Make a Payment screen and follow the instructions provided. Please note that E-Check payments appear on your invoice immediately but take 2-3 business days for your bank to process.

What is the SmartPay Discount Plan?

The SmartPay Discount PlanSM allows our travelers to receive a discount by paying for their trip in full before their final payment due date. The further in advance of the final payment date you pay, the greater the discount. Just as important, you’ll guarantee your price against price increases resulting from currency fluctuations, fuel costs, and other unanticipated occurrences.

How can I take advantage of your SmartPay Discount Plan?

You can only take advantage of our SmartPay Discount PlanSM when paying by E-Check. Paying by E-Check is fast, easy and 100% secure – and there is no fee involved. All you need is your checking account number and bank routing number, both of which are printed on your checks. 50% of your trip’s total cost must be paid by check. Payments made inside of 60 days prior to departure will not qualify.

Can I pay by credit card and still take advantage of your SmartPay Discount Plan?

While we do accept credit card payments, you can only take advantage of our SmartPay Discount PlanSM when paying by E-Check, unless part of your payment is made by credit card and at least 50% of your total payment is paid by E-Check.

How do I redeem my Vantage Credit Voucher?

Vantage credit vouchers should be mailed once you receive your first invoice. Any overpayment that results from the credit voucher will be refunded to you, if applicable.

How do I cancel my trip and how long will it take for me to receive a refund?

If you must cancel your trip, you should contact our Customer Concierge Staff department. Refund requests must be made in writing – indicating the reason for cancellation – and received by the respective final payment due date to avoid additional cancellation charges.

Vantage realizes that most people who cancel their reservations do so out of real necessity. Nevertheless, there is a non-refundable administrative fee of $300 per person for each program you cancel. This low fee covers only our costs of reservation maintenance or cancellation.

Payments made to your credit card will be refunded as a credit to that card. Payments made by check will be refunded by check. Payments paid by electronic check will be refunded electronically. Please allow 35 days for refunds to be manually verified and processed by our accounting department. Please refer to the Tour Participation Agreement for your program's cancellation fee schedule.

Why does it take just one day to charge my credit card at the time of booking but 30 days to refund it in the event of cancellation?

After you book a trip with us, we process charges within 24 hours in order to hold and confirm your reservation quickly for you. Because refunds are processed manually by our accounting department, we require a 30-day processing period to assure utmost accuracy.

I was just reviewing my invoice online and noticed a discrepancy. What should I do?

Please contact us and we will attempt to resolve the situation as soon as possible. To help expedite matters, you should print out your invoice and have it handy when you contact us.

Contact Vantage

CALL 8-888-888-6677

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 Departure Comparison Jul, Nov May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Dec
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Accommodations in hotels  On each journey that we offer with Vantage, your hotel accommodations will be included in the total price of your cruise.    We choose all of our partner hotels with comfort and luxury in mind, and will let you know ahead of time which hotel you’ll be staying in at each port. 
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