Each new booking comes with the complimentary UTO Worry-Free Plan (Click here for more details)
Tour Code: USTT09
Duration: 9 Days
Optional Features and Upgrades: Since the seats are limited, we recommend you to choose optional and extension programs at the time of booking:
Service Language: English
Extra Service: Travel Insurance Visa Service
1. Round-trip international flight from New York (All Airports) / Los Angeles / Chicago / Atlanta / Boston / Dallas / Houston / Washington, D.C. to Istanbul for NO additional charge
The following departure cities are available for additional charge:
Additional U$100/person | San Diego / Denver / Miami / Orlando / San Francisco |
Additional U$200/person | Portland / Fort Lauderdale / Detroit / Philadelphia / Oakland |
Additional U$300/person | Seattle / Phoenix / Toronto / Montreal / Vancouver |
Additional U$500/person | Las Vegas / Austin / Charlotte / Memphis / Milwaukee / San Jose / Sacramento / San Antonio / Oklahoma / Ottawa / Quebec / Halifax / Edmonton / Saskatoon / Winnipeg / Calgary |
Land only package without round-trip international flight ticket: minus U$500/person
2. Hand-picked 5-star hotel accommodations
3. Sightseeing admission fees as listed on the agenda
4. Food as specified on the itinerary
5. Special cultural programs as specified in the schedule
6. Professional English speaking local tour expert
7. All tax and fuel surcharge
8. UTOvacation's Worry Free Plan (Click Here for More Details)
1. Travel insurance
2. Any personal expenses
3. Tour extensions and optional programs
4. Gratuity* for tour guides and drivers
5. Single supplement fee: U$700 (*Our tour price is based on double occupancy and if a single passenger is traveling solo and not sharing room with any roommate for the entire trip, a single supplement fee is charged. If a passenger shares a room with travel partner(s) on the tour, such fee is waived.)
ALL PRICES ARE IN USD
PAYMENT SCHEDULE:
GROUP SIZE:
☆ 10 - 24 people in each group
FLIGHT UPGRADE** TO BUSINESS CLASS (BEFORE FINAL PAYMENT):
☆ Business Class Flight Upgrade (only available for the International round-trip flight between North America and Turkey): Please contact us for pricing and availability
*Gratuities for tour director/local guide or driver are not included in the package price and if you are happy with their outstanding services, we recommend a tipping guideline: $15 per person per day for the guide and $ 5 per person per day for the driver. If you find the service is exceptional, feel free to tip additionally. Please keep in mind that the amount of appreciation is always at your discretion and we thank you for your generosity and kindness. Should you wish to settle your tipping money before the trip by using credit card, you may do so in your account.
**Since the seats are limited, we recommend you to choose upgrades at the time of booking.
On board international flight to Istanbul.
Upon arrival, meet and greet then transfer to hotel.
Istanbul, the only city in the world that stretches across two continents, is the largest city in Turkey with a population of 20 million. Used to be the capital city for Byzantine Empire, Latin Empire and Ottoman Empire, this ancient city has a long history, fascinating culture and gourmet food that attract visitors from all over the world.
Rest up and get ready for your stoked itinerary tomorrow
Remarks before tour starts:
Start off the day by visiting the UNESCO listed Ancient Sultanahmet District on European side. Sultan Ahmed Mosque, also nicked named the “Blue Mosque“owing to the blue glazed tiles the architects used for the decoration is a must-see sight. This massive construction is topped by over 30 domes and 6 minarets, big enough for housing 3500 pilgrims at the same time. Built between 1609 and 1616, the Blue Mosque mixed with Byzantine and Islamic styles is the city landmark building visible from across the Bosporus Strait. Not far from here is the Hagia Sophia, a present-day museum and a 900-year-old Byzantine church as well as a 500-year-old Islam Mosque in the old time. When Muhammad II stepped in this grand cathedral in 1453AD, instead of ordering to smash the complex into pieces, he determined to modify the structure, kept St. Mary status, covered the Byzantine mural paintings with plaster and converted this Christian church to a Muslim mosque. Keep going to the Egyptian Bazaar, an ancient spice market and Grand Bazaar, one of the world largest and oldest markets featuring all kinds of commodities you can imagine. Walk around in the old town center at Sultanahmet Square where you could admire three remarkable historical remains: Obelisk of Theodosius, Spiral Column and Constantine Column.
Come back to the hotel and relax or you are invited to join us for the optional evening dinner cruise on the Bosporus, the dividing line between East and West.
Optional Tour: Night cruise on Bosporus with dinner and folk-dance performance U$79/person.
Today is free for you to design your own agenda.
“If the whole world is one country, the capital must be Istanbul”. Join us for an optional full day in-depth tour to learn more about this appealing place.
Optional Tour: Full day exploring Istanbul with lunch U$119/person
Let us first take you to the Basilica Cistern, an underground reservoir built in 532AD for the water supply of the imperial palace. The accidental discovery of two upside down Medusa head sculptures has added more mystery and romance to this unique place which has appeared in many top-grossing movies. Next stop is the famed Topkapi Palace. Initially constructed by Muhammad II and expanded by Suleiman I, this royal palace is a huge compound consisting of imperial residence, library, mosque, school, hospital, and garden, spacious enough for 4000 dwellers. There were as many as 30 sultans who lived and ruled the vast country from this palace. Move to the New District on European side and visit the Dolmabahce Palace, also called the “New Palace”, where the last 6 sultans resided. Enlightened by the Louvre and inspired by the Buckingham Palace, this complex was designed to be fancy, luxurious and extravagant on a man-made land in water, overlooking the Golden Horn and the Sea of Marmara. Stroll along the lively Istiklal Avenue connecting Galata Tower and Taksim Square lined with boutiques, book stores, bistros, high end restaurants, music pubs, art galleries, movie theaters and libraries. The elegant and charming architectures here in Classical, Gothic and Renaissance styles portray the golden era when this was all Genovese concession.
Overnight in Istanbul.
Morning bus ride to the capital city Ankara(270mi/440km), the second largest city of Turkey. Upon arrival, go straight to Anitkabir, the Mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. Elected to be the first president in 1923, Mustafa Kemal Ataturk has been highly respected as the founder of the Republic of Turkey who had abolished the Sultan Monarchy of Ottoman Empire and brought the renascence to the modern Turkey by advocating and implementing a more secular state policy. There are 12 pairs of stone carved lion statues standing on both sides of the sacred walkway leading to the Grand Ceremonial Plaza, symbolizing the 24 Oghuz Turkic Tribes and adding solemn beauty to the whole tomb site. Your next program is the Museum of Anatolian Civilization, a veritable treasure trove full of archeological artifacts and cultural relics from excavation sites across the Anatolia. Ascend to Ankara Castle on top of the old town hill to gain a panoramic view of the city before checking in your hotel in the capital.
Depart for Cappadocia(200mi/330km), an area with unrivalled picture-perfect landform filled with imposing pillars, caves and valleys attracting world class filmmakers, photographers, newlyweds and hot air balloon riders. On the way, make a brief picture stop at Lake Tuz, “Mirror of the Sky”, an unusual pink color Salt Lake south of Ankara. Upon arrival at Cappadocia, check in your hotel and enjoy your free afternoon at this surreal region, the celebrated “Most Moon-like Place on Earth”
After dinner, you are invited to join us for an optional traditional folk-dance show. The UNESCO listed Sufi Whirling Dervishes has 800 years of history in Turkey and dancers believe while they spin and meditate set to the music, their soul could escalate to a more harmonious level between heaven and earth, much closer to the Creator.
Optional Tour: Evening Whirling Dervishes Performance U$49/person.
We invite the early risers to participate in an unforgettable adventure(optional) by riding on a hot air balloon at sunrise time. Cappadocia is one of the top 3 world-famous destinations ideal for hot air balloon activity because of its breathtaking volcanic rock formations, unbeatable Moon-like terrain and epic history of legendary human settlement.
Optional Tour: Morning hot air balloon ride U$200-300/person (depending on the season)
Remarks for hot air balloon experience:
In the afternoon, you are scheduled to follow our guide to explore the UNESCO listed Goreme National Park, a wide stretch of a rocky, water- and wind-eroded landscape with cave churches and underground dwellings. Among the numerous valleys, rock towers, cliffs and peaks, Guvercinlik Valley, Devrent Valley, Fairy Chimneys, Love Valley, Rose Valley, Pasabag and Three Beauties are the most striking and picturesque ones. Around 9th century AD, more Christians escaped to this remote and isolated place and settled down here to avoid the attacks from Arabs. People hewed out houses from the rocks and later added churches, markets, wineries and tunnels to create some huge interconnected communities. Uçhisar Castle was built on a steep slope of a 196ft/60m high rock hill as a fortification functioned to ward off any invaders. The interior of the rock hill was unbelievably hollowed out to be served as a stronghold with water storage and food supply capable to support the worriers for months without any help from outside.
Back to the hotel for a restful evening
After breakfast, enjoy a scenic bus ride back to Istanbul and relax for the day.
Morning check out from your hotel and head to the airport for your onward flight.
OPTIONAL PROGRAMS (CHOOSE BEFORE THE TRIP STARTS):
☆ Day 3: Night cruise on Bosporus with dinner and folk-dance performance U$79/person
☆ Day 4: Full day exploring Istanbul with lunch U$119/person
☆ Day 6: Evening Whirling Dervishes Performance U$49/person
☆ Day 7: Morning hot air balloon ride U$200-300/person (depending on the season)
POST TOUR EXTENSIONS: (Minimum participants are 10 passengers or more. If less than 10, there will be a FIT surcharge of 20% extra on top of the price per person)
1. West Anatolia 4 Nights Extension Package Click Here to View Details
Price: U$799/person
Single supplement fee: U$400
Included:
- Air ticket change fee & fare difference from the original itinerary
- All connecting/domestic flights and ground transportation
- All transfers
- Guided sightseeing luxury tour
- Sightseeing admission fees as listed on the agenda
- 3-nights hotel accommodations with daily breakfast
- Food as specified on itinerary
- Special cultural programs as listed in different cities as specified in the schedule
- Professional English speaking local tour expert
2. Dubai 5 Nights Extension Package Click Here to View Details
Price: U$1099/person
Single supplement fee: U$500
Included:
- Air ticket change fee & fare difference from the original itinerary
- All connecting/domestic flights and ground transportation
- All transfers
- Guided sightseeing luxury tour
- Sightseeing admission fees as listed on the agenda
- 5-nights hotel accommodations in Dubai with daily breakfast
- Food as specified on itinerary
- Special cultural programs as listed in different cities as specified in the schedule
- Professional English speaking local tour expert
3. Jordan 5 Nights Extension Package Click Here to View Details
Price: U$1099/person
Single supplement fee: U$500/person
Included:
- Air ticket change fee & fare difference from the original itinerary
- All connecting/domestic flights and ground transportation
- All transfers
- Guided sightseeing luxury tour
- Sightseeing admission fees as listed on the agenda
- 5-nights hotel accommodations in Jordan with daily breakfast
- Food as specified on itinerary
- Special cultural programs as listed in different cities as specified in the schedule
- Professional English speaking local tour expert
4. Morocco 6 Nights Extension Package Click Here to View Details
Price: U$1199/person
Single supplement fee: U$600
Included:
- Air ticket change fee & fare difference from the original itinerary
- All connecting/domestic flights and ground transportation
- All transfers
- Guided sightseeing luxury tour
- Sightseeing admission fees as listed on the agenda
- 6-nights hotel accommodations in Morocco with daily breakfast
- Food as specified on itinerary
- Special cultural programs as listed in different cities as specified in the schedule
- Professional English speaking local tour expert
FLIGHT DEVIATION SERVICE:
Please contact us for details and pricing whenever you need
PRE & POST TRIP ACCOMMODATION SERVICE:
Please contact us for details and pricing whenever you need
HAND-PICKED 5-STAR HOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS:
☆ Istanbul: Double Tree by Hilton Topkapi or similar
☆ Ankara: Movenpick Ankara or similar
☆ Cappadocia: Ramada by Wyndham or similar
☆ Izmir: Movenpick Izmir or similar
☆ Antalya: Crowne Plaza Antalya or similar
INTERNATIONAL AIR: (UTOvacation reserves the right to confirm the airlines below)
☆ United Airline ☆ American Airline ☆ Delta Airline ☆ Air Canada ☆ Lufthansa Airlines ☆ Jet Airways ☆ Lot Polish Airlines ☆ Tap Air Portugal ☆ Austrian Airlines ☆ KLM Airlines ☆ Alitalia ☆ Air France ☆ French Bee Airline ☆ Virgin Atlantic ☆ Vueling Airlines ☆ Air Caraibes ☆ Level Airline ☆ Norwegian Air Shuttle ☆ Iberia ☆ Air Italy ☆ Aeroflot ☆ Aer Lingus ☆ Finnair ☆ Swiss International Air Lines ☆ Scandinavian Airlines ☆ Brussels Airlines ☆ British Airways ☆ Turkish Airlines ☆ Ukraine Intl Airlines ☆ Royal Air Maroc ☆ Etihad Airways ☆ Egyptair ☆ Italia Trasporto Aereo ☆ Qatar Airways ☆ Royal Jordanian ☆ Emirates Airline ☆ Kuwait Airways
Turkey, officially the Republic of Turkey, is a transcontinental country located mainly on Anatolia in Western Asia, with a portion on the Balkans in Southeast Europe. It shares borders with Greece and Bulgaria to the northwest; the Black Sea to the north; Georgia to the northeast; Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Iran to the east; Iraq to the southeast; Syria and the Mediterranean Sea to the south; and the Aegean Sea to the west. Cyprus is located off the south coast. Turks form the vast majority of the nation's population and Kurds are the largest minority.[4] Ankara is Turkey's capital, while Istanbul is its largest city and financial centre.
Why visit Turkey
Crystal clear waters, tall mountains, the ruins of ancient empires small idyllic villages, huge cosmopolitan cities – there are so many reasons why you should stay in Turkey. Here, Culture Trip takes a look at some of the best.
1. Beautiful beaches
Bodrum, Antalya, Izmir and Fethiye have some of the most beautiful beaches in Turkey, with a spectrum that includes everything from secluded coves to exciting beach parties. One of the best ways to experience Turkey’s many beaches and the Mediterranean or Aegean Coast is by taking a Blue Cruise.
2. Turkish baths
The hamam experience has become synonymous with Turkey and is a perennial favorite. Being scrubbed and washed and massaged in a cloud of soap foam is, after all, a spectacular way to unwind.
3. Archaeological sites
Witnessing many empires and civilizations, Turkey has a remarkable amount of archaeological sites spread out all over the country. From Istanbul palaces and mosques to the ruins of Ephesus to the underground cities of Cappadocia, the nation is a haven for archaeology and history enthusiasts.
4. Excellent museums
Turkey also has a lot of fantastic museums that actively preserve findings from the many archaeological sites all around the country. From the largest mosaic museum in the world (Zeugma in Gaziantep) to the Ottoman palace museums of Istanbul, there’s plenty.
5. Off-the-beaten-track wonders
Turkey also has a lot of hidden archaeological sites and historically significant cities. Whether it’s the ruined medieval Armenian city of Ani or an ancient king’s tomb at Mount Nemrut, there’s a lot to discover all around.
6. Striking architecture
Turkey’s architectural scope is striking and includes everything from historic churches to stone houses built by former Anatolian empires. From Istanbul to Mardin and beyond, you’ll always find a structure that really changes your aesthetic perspective.
Visa in Turkey
To travel to Turkey from the US, American passport holders can now get an electronic visa (e-Visa) instead of the traditional ‘stamp’ or ‘sticker’ visa. This modern and convenient system makes it easy to apply for a Turkey visa online from the US.
The best time to visit Turkey
January, February and March are fairly cold months in Turkey, although temperatures do warm up by March.
April, May, September and October are pleasantly warm, with temperatures of 20°C to 30°C, so are typically the best times to visit Turkey's grand array of ancient sites. The summer months (June through to September) are very hot, with temperatures reaching the mid-thirties on the south coast.
Language in Turkey
Turkish is spoken in Turkey, Cyprus, and elsewhere in Europe and the Middle East. With Gagauz, Azerbaijani (sometimes called Azeri), Turkmen, and Khorāsān Turkic, it forms the southwestern, or Oğuz, branch of the Turkic languages.
https://www.frommers.com/destinations/turkey/in-depth/language
Currency in Turkey
The currency in Turkey is the Turkish Lira. ATMs are widely available in major cities and tourist areas. You can get local currency from banks and exchange bureaus, known as DOVIZ in Turkish.
Other Items/Electricity
For Turkey there are two associated plug types, types C and F. Plug type C is the plug that has two round pins and plug type F is the plug that has two round pins with two earth clips on the side. Turkey operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz
What to pack and what to wear for a trip to Turkey
You can pretty much wear what you want in Turkey, but what you wear determines first impressions of how you are received. I recommend that you bring comfortable, tidy informal clothing and well-broken-in shoes.
Packing for Weather
In spring (April-May) and autumn (October-November) you may encounter rain, and the air may be cool or even chilly at night, but comfortable during the day; bring a warm jacket or a sweater and windbreaker. In Northeastern and Eastern Turkey, prepare for near-winter conditions. In Southeastern Turkey there will be little rain, and warm weather, so packs as for a mild summer.
In summer (June-September) wear cool cotton clothing, a hat, and sunblock lotion, but have a light sweater for cool evenings. Rain won't be a big problem, although you may encounter it along the Black Sea coast and in the East. In the Southeast, be prepared for hot, hot weather.
In winter (December-March) you'll need warm woolen clothing and rain gear, even though many days will be sunny. In general, weather is warmer along the seacoasts and in the Mediterranean coast and Southeast, cooler at higher elevations.
When you’re visiting any country, it’s always good to obey their laws and respect the local culture.
Any of travel products or services that you purchase from UTOvacation contains a contractual agreement between you and UTOvacation and it represents that you have agreed to UTOvacation Terms and Conditions. Please make sure that you read carefully before making any payment.
Reservation
Online Reservations
Step 1. Visit UTOvacation website at www.utovacation.com, register or login to your account.
Step 2. Choose your desired departure date and departure city.
Step 3. Enter the travellers’ information according to the passport. Please identify and provide the contact information for the main traveller. All communication from UTOvacation will be sent to the main traveller only.
Step 4. Make a deposit to complete the reservation. A non-refundable, non-transferable deposit of $600/person is required to secure the space. A full payment is required when the booking is created within the final payment period (within 150 days before the departure date).
Step 5. Booking is confirmed.
By booking your tour online with UTOvacation.com you acknowledge and agree to all three terms and conditions including the Internet Sales & Deposit Policy and the Sales and Cancellation Policy. You also confirm and agree that you understand that the deposit is non-refundable.
Offline Reservations
Step 1. Complete the reservation.
Call 1-855-526-1286 to request Booking Form. Fill out all the information on the Booking Form with an authentic signature and date on the bottom of the second page. It is the passenger's responsibility to ensure documentation accuracy and travel documents validity. You will be liable for the full loss caused by incorrect information. By the time you full-fill the booking form, you have agreed to receive correspondence from UTOvacation which might include newsflash, email blast or any other promotions in the future. Email/Fax your current and valid Passport Copy with the Booking Form together to [email protected]/416-251-7778
Step 2. Finalize the booking.
Make the deposit. A Non-refundable, non-transferable deposit is required to secure the space. We accept cash, cheque, money order, debit card, credit card, email transfer, TD transfer. A full payment is required when booking if the package is a special on-sale product.
Step 3. Booking is confirmed.
Balance payment of any regular products or services is due 150 days prior to departure unless specified. If the full payment is not obtained by the due date, UTOvacation reserves the right to cancel such reservation and retain the pre-paid deposit to cover any expenses occurred. * In addition, some products may require a second deposit before final payment. Please carefully review your product pages for your reference.
By booking your tour offline with UTOvacation.com, you acknowledge and agree to all three terms and conditions including the Internet Sales & Deposit Policy and the Sales and Cancellation Policy. You also confirm and agree that you understand that the deposit is non-refundable.
Final Payment
Balance payment of any regular products or services is due 150 days prior to departure unless specified. If the full payment is not obtained by the due date, UTOvacation reserves the right to cancel such reservation and retain the pre-paid deposit to cover any expenses occurred.
Please note: Your timely payment is important to guarantee your seat/cabin and ensure the overall tour package price. Your final payment will NOT be charged automatically by UTOvacation and payment reconciliation in time on your side is necessary to confirm your booking.
Full or final payment is due 150 days before tour departure date. Travel documents including but not limited to valid Passport (or copy), Risk assumption waiver form with signature shall be collected as well by this date. Any failure to do so might result in trip cancelation, price increase, inflation surcharge or forfeiting your existing fund in your account.
Final Trip Confirmation
A final trip confirmation by email including day by day itinerary, hotel information, and flight information will be sent to the main contact traveller approximately one month before departure.
Trip Cancellation and Eligible Refunds
Please ensure you have read the Trip Cancellation Policy in full and have not scrolled past or by-passed this section.
UTOvacation reserves the right to cancel or modify a tour prior to departure date. An alternative departure date will be offered for no extra charge should there be any travel restrictions, lock-downs imposed by governments, health organizations, travel bureaus. A full travel credit will be offered for future trip rebooking or rescheduling if there are extreme cases happening which are all beyond our control including but not limited to any global pandemics, regional epidemics, wars, or any other acts of god.
All passenger cancellation or change requests must be confirmed in written form by email or fax including your reservation number, full name and date of travel, cancellations will only be accepted in writing.
Any cancellation of issued flight tickets before outbound departure (all the segments are unused) at the originally issued place would incur a penalty charge of CAD/USD 350.00 per ticket. No refund will be issued once travel has begun.
Cancellation terms will be applied based on the date that the written cancellation is received and based on the following dates prior to departure.
All reservations, except where specified:
Number of Days Prior to Departure | Cancellation Penalty (Per Person) |
150 days or above | $600 as penalty |
90 - 149 days | $600 + 30% of tour fare as penalty |
30 - 89 days | $600 + 50% of tour fare as penalty |
0 - 29 days | 100% of the tour fare as the penalty |
No refund will be available on departure date and/or after the tour has commenced (Including denied and/or rejected by Immigration Department or Custom of destination or Cruise port terminal officer).
No refund or reimbursement will be available to passengers who voluntarily forego meals, cruise, tours and/or accommodations. A surcharge may apply should there be any additional fees occurred from services refused by the passengers. i.e. Since air ticket, cruise ticket, transportation, accommodation, and meals have to be arranged in advance during high season (i.e.Holidays, Special Events, and other important activities and conventions), no departure date changed is allowed. No refund will be available on departure date change and/or booking cancellation.
Any other charges, refunds or rebates caused by the acts of God, Force Majeure, natural disasters, fire, weather, governmental and local authority's order, political change, strikes, war, riots, quarantine, custom regulations, damages or inquiry caused by accident is beyond the responsibility of UTOvacation and therefore, you agree to hold UTOvacation harmless and non-liable for any refunds or compensation outside of the previously defined refund structure. Furthermore, should the traveller violate any local/provincial or national laws during their travels, UTOvacation is not responsible or liable. By this signing the agreement the client agrees to any offer of a voucher, future company credit, or alternative arrangements as determined by management at that time.
No refunds will be offered for Travel notices except for complete travel bans (Canada Travel Advisory Level 4) (USA Travel Advisory Level 4) which have occurred after the date of booking. Should an outright travel ban be implemented by the departing or destination country/city, a full travel credit will be offered. Refunds will not be granted for pre-existing situations at the destination country at the time of the booking. Please note, should UTOvacation incur any unexpected costs from its suppliers, these costs would be subtracted from and balance/travel credit issued to the passenger
Please note, any refunded amount will not include fees associated with Travel Visa’s which have already been issued or any services that have already been delivered.
All reschedule tours are consider non-refundable; regular cancellation policy does not apply.
All upgrade packages are non-refundable including gold/silver flight package, hotel, cruise cabin, meal package and etc.
Travel Visa
The following documents from the passenger are required if travel visa is applied through UTOvacation’s Visa Center:
*Remarks: If acquiring a visa on your own, the supporting documents will be provided from UTOvacation One Month prior to the trip departure date. Supporting documents requested early are subject to a $50 administration fee
Shopping During your Tour
Although we would be happy to assist your shopping needs, UTOvacation would not be responsible for price, quality, and service of any goods purchased during the tour.
Price Adjustments
After the booking is confirmed, if the price increased following the imposition of a surcharge on fuel by the carrier or an increase in the exchange rate, insofar as the exchange rate applicable before the date on which the services are provided has increased by more than 5% since the date on which the contract was entered into; and/or if the increase, without taking into account any increase in the provincial sales tax or USA Canada's goods and services tax, raising taxes, royalties or reauthorized charges by a competent public authority, is equal to or greater than 7% of the price of services, you may choose between a full and immediate reimbursement of the services or the provision of similar services.(except for acts of God, wars, national strikes, travel restrictions, significant inflations, global pandemic or anything beyond our control)
Tour Adjustments
UTOvacation retains the right to adjust, modify or reschedule tours if deemed necessary.
UTOvacation also reserves the right to adjust your tour date or itinerary if it feels it is in the best interest of its passengers especially in cases that involve the health and safety. This may include minor adjustments like the timing of a scheduled tour attraction visit to a complete date modification.
UTOvacation will do its best to notify you of any such changes before your departure (Or as soon as possible if you have already departed).
Stipulations. Please note, UTOvacation does its’ best to fulfill its tour obligations. However, UTOvacation is not liable for scenarios which impact room availability, tour execution, separate fees or other elements of the tour that is enforced by third party entities such as local and federal authorities.
Tour Credits
UTOvacation on some occasions may issue Travel Credits as either a reward or because of trip suspension.
Travel Credits may be used on any UTOvacation product except for Travel Visas, First Class flight fare upgrades or
Sponsored products are specially designed and co-sponsored by our third party partners. Seats are for new bookings only and travel credits/other tour packages are not applicable or transferable to such products.
Travel Seat Arrangements
Seating/Cabin assignment: UTOvacation has no power to control the seating selection on the aircraft or cabin location on the cruise (unless where specified). All the spots are arranged by the airline/cruise line group department or randomly selected by the computer system. Therefore, UTO vacation cannot help the customers to change, reserve, pre-assign seats/cabins.
Preferred Seat Upgrade: UTOvacation will not be responsible for any preferred seat upgrade on aircraft (except for business or first class seats). Some cruise packages allow the selection of cabins at the time of booking for an upgraded price; please refer to the product page for details.
Reservation Adjustments
Changes to an existing reservation by the passenger for whatever the cause, will incur a $100 per person charge plus any additional supplier fees. This includes name changes and removal of any services such as optional tours and transfers. The deposit and/or full payment for any optional feature that is on an early bird or special sale promotion is non-refundable and non-transferable.
*Please note that name changes to airline or cruise line reservations are subject to full cancellation or re-booking. See Airline Name Changes section for specific regulations.
Replacing a travelling passenger is subject to cancellation penalties and is not covered by this Reservation Changes policy.
Changes or additional requests after departure are subject to local rates at the time of amendment and must be paid directly by the passenger to the service provider. UTOvacation will make its best effort to minimize these costs, however, all payment will be payable by request of the local service providers.
There are no refunds for unused services.
Optional Tours
There is no need to pay deposit for any of the optional programs and extensions. Please note there is a possibility that the seats are all gone once you wish to attend such activity onsite or price might change due to the inflation, so we ask you to sign up early. For any early bird or discounted rate for the side trips special promotion, a non-refundable deposit or full fare might be required as per the terms and conditions.
Travel Insurance
UTOvacation strongly recommends all tour members to purchase travel insurance at the time of booking. UTOvacation does not directly offer Travel Insurance. The Travel Insurance recommended by UTOvacation are facilitated and owned by third party operators. Any Travel Insurance purchased by the passenger is governed by the third party and UTOvacation is not liable or responsible for said insurance.
Baggage
Each airline company has its own rules and regulations with the baggage weight, size, and number. The best way to find out the rules and regulations is to go visit the airline company official website.
Please note, some destinations baggage is not included in the fare. Refer to your specific tour product page’s terms & conditions for specific baggage allowances.
Gratuities
Gratuities for tour director/local guide or driver are not included in the package price and if you are happy with their outstanding services, we recommend a tipping guideline: $15 per person per day for the guide and $ 5 per person per day for the driver. If you find the service is exceptional, feel free to tip additionally. Please keep in mind that the amount of appreciation is always at your discretion and we thank you for your generosity and kindness. Should you wish to settle your tipping money before the trip by using credit card, you may do so in your account.
Tour Fare Includes
Please refer to your tour itinerary for the most updated information
Tour Fare Excludes
Vaccinations
- Please be advised that the vaccination requirements are subject to change in each country and that it is the responsibility of the traveler and not UTOvacation to check about the requirements before the arrival of your destination.
- The World Health Organization (WHO) emphasizes that all travelers should be up to date with routine vaccinations. Following that, travelers should check that they have been fully vaccinated against measles, rubella, mumps, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), poliomyelitis, and COVID-19 before starting their travel. Non-immunized or incompletely immunized travelers should be offered the routine vaccinations recommended in their national immunization schedules, in addition to those needed for international travel (e.g. yellow fever vaccine).
- The WHO recommends the following vaccinations for travelers to South America: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, cholera, yellow fever, and rabies. Some routine vaccinations are also recommended, such as measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR), tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis (Tdap), influenza, chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia, meningitis, and polio.
- Proof of yellow fever vaccination may be required for some travelers, based on their specific itinerary. It is possible to find further details on the WHO website.
Additional Notes
The extra cost of schedule delay caused by Air Flight cancellation or change will be undertaken by passengers themselves. The missed itineraries will not be re-arranged. During the tour or cruise, it will be considered as surrendering application automatically if you do not attend the pre-arranged tour or check in the prearranged hotel or cruise.
All the extra cost will be undertaken by the client voluntarily. UTOvacation reserves the right to abandon any clients if such clients violate the law or damage the interest of tour groups If a travel visa is denied for any reason either applied through UTOvacation Visa Service Center or applied on your own, the tour cancellation policy applies when cancellation of the tour is requested. UTOvacation holds no responsibilities for any denied Travel Visa application.
If a child, 18 years old or younger, is travelling abroad with only one parent/guardian, children MUST carry a notarized consent letter signed by non-accompanying parent/guardian. If a child, 18 years old or younger is travelling alone, children must carry a notarized consent letter signed by both parents/guardian. Such a consent letter may be requested by immigration authorities when entering or leaving from a foreign country or by North American officials when re-entering into USA or Canada. Failure of presenting such document may result in the rejection of boarding aircraft or vessel for the children concerned.
Cruise lines reserve the right to cancel, modify or substitute any scheduled port of calls and the schedule at any time and for any reason whatsoever without prior notice due to the navigation authority and water conditions. Any additional expenses cause by the trip interruption should be paid by the customers, which includes but not limited to meals, transportation, hotel accommodations, personal expense, and lost baggage. UTOvacation shall not be liable for any loss to guests.
For children under 18 who will be occupying a bed, there will be an additional $100 supplement per child. Please note, this is only applicable China discounted tours or any trip that includes China discounter tours.
Please note, there is a minimum attendant requirement (10 participants) for optional programs and Pre and Post tour extensions, If less than 10, there will be a FIT surcharge of 20% extra on top of the price per person. UTOvacation reserves the right to cancel or modify optional programs and Pre and Post tour extensions prior to departure date.
Safeguarding your payment(s) is our top priority. In order to prevent any rampant fraudulence or deception, we ask our customers to settle payment(s) through your account on UTOvacation official website at www.utovacation.com. Should you choose offline payment submission, Cheque/Money order/Bank draft/Credit card (with credit card authorization form filled out and signed) are accepted and the payee must be UTOvacation. Please be advised that UTOvacation has never been allowing Bank transfer/Email transfer for transactions and Cash is not recommended. If you find something suspicious regarding your payment, please call 1-855.526.1286 before any further actions.
Remarks:
1) UTOvacation reserves the right to impose relevant fuel/inflation surcharge if Brent Crude Oil Price Index or US/Canada Official CPI has jumped over 4% between your booking date and tour departure date.
2) UTOvacation usually sends out important notifications including but not limited to destination health protocols, travel industry policies, tour updates and safety alerts to our agents/customers by newsletter through email. We are not responsible for trip delay, service cancellation, price increase or any other types of loss caused by unsubscribing from our email list, wrong email address or a lack of checking email box/spam folder/junk folder on a regular basis. If you have not received our newsletter for a long time, make sure your email address is effective/valid and you are on our email list. OR contact us immediately at [email protected] for assistance.
Special Notes for Middle Eastern packages:
Please be advised that traveling in the Middle East requires open-mind and willingness to respect the local culture, religion and tradition.
1.It is highly recommended that women wear tops covering shoulders and skirts falling below the knee in public. Knee-length shorts are allowed for men. It is customary for women to cover their shoulders and hair and men to have shirts and long pants when visiting a mosque or temple. More conservative dress is expected during the Ramadan or Jewish holiday period.
2.Non-Muslims above the age of 21 are only allowed to consume alcohol in licensed hotels, clubs and restaurants, never in public open areas.
3.Taking photographs of individuals, especially females, needs a permission first. Do not take any pictures with military facilities, borders and airports.
4.Horse carts and camel rides at tourist sites are mostly not included in the entrance fees. We suggest that you negotiate ride fare and tips with the merchant beforehand in order to avoid any unexpected situation at the end of the ride. Keep the exact change in local currency handy.
5.Ramadan is the holy month for the Islamic world and all Muslims have to fast from dawn to dusk without eating, drinking or smoking. Alcohol is available in licensed bars and restaurants after sunset for non-Muslims. Tourist hotels usually keep one restaurant open during the day catering to resident guests. Also during Ramadan month, live performance, certain music and dancing are prohibited. Shops are open after sunset.
6.Most hotels and restaurants provide kosher foods with no pork or shellfish in Israel.
7.Shabbat is the Jewish holy-day and day of rest of the week. It starts on every Friday after sunset and ends on Saturday evening. Offices, public transportation (except for taxi), private businesses are closed (i.e., stores and restaurants) and reopen after the Shabbat.
UTO Worry-Free Plan:
(Reg $299-699pp)
Risk Free Deposit:
1. By making a deposit of $600pp in a timely manner, you will secure a vacation spot and avoid any future package/service price increase. Within the first 30 days after you put down the deposit, you may cancel at any time without a question asked and receive a full refund in the form of your payment.
2. After 30 days of your deposit payment, you may still cancel your trip for any reason up to 150 days prior to your departure date and your deposit(non-refundable) will be converted to UTO future travel credit in full amount for 24 months. (If you cancel within 150 days before tour departure date, your deposit will be lost plus penalty as per terms and conditions)
Flexible Name/Tour Change:
1. No administration fee is charged for name change/tour change/minor correction up to 150 days prior to your departure date (except for any additional cost/surcharge already occurred, if any, imposed by any third party. i.e., airline, cruise line)
2. There is an administration fee of $100pp for any name change/tour change plus any additional cost/surcharge already occurred, if any, imposed by any third party. i.e., airline, cruise line, hotel, ground operator if you wish to make such change within 150 days before the tour starts.
Preferential Force Majeure Solution:
If there are any force majeure events happening beyond the control of UTOvacation (Global pandemics, natural disasters, acts of terrorism, wars, strikes or travel restrictions etc.), your payment less any expenses already occurred will be converted to UTO future travel credit for 24 months.
Extra Care:
1. If full payment is not received on the due date as per terms and conditions on our end, we will offer guests an extra 24 hours’ period before cancelling the reservation and imposing any penalties after the deadline time.
2. Supporting document for visa application is provided for free of charge.
Remarks:
1.UTO Worry-Free Plan is complimentary for new bookings only and cannot be combined with any other similar promotions. The existing reservations are not applicable for the plan.
2. Only itinerates with such are applicable for UTO Worry-Free Plan.
3. By purchasing UTO Worry-Free Plan, you understand that this program is non-refundable and non-transferable. Payments made by the customer will first be applied to UTO Worry-Free Plan and then to the remainder of the tour package.
UTOvacation strongly recommends that you purchase travel insurance for any future travel plans.
We have curated two reputable partners one in the USA and one for Canada. Once you have made your trip selection, please select the option of purchasing travel insurance.
For USA patrons, in order to qualify for the “Cancel For Any Reason” Option offered by John Hancock, you will need to purchase your insurance within 14 days of your initial deposit. Other insurance policies may be purchased later.
Please note, the travel insurance that is available for purchase is with our affiliate partners and not a direct product or offering of UTOvacation. For any questions or concerns, please contact the vendor directly.
American Travel Insurance (click for more details)
Canadian Travel Insurance (click for more details)
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