Frequently asked questions
Do I need travel insurance?
How can I obtain a US Passport?
How do I find out about visa requirements?
Where can I purchase the recommended travel items?
Can I use points to purchase my airfare?
If you would like to use points for your airfare, you are advised to handle this directly with the airline or the points issuing company.
Can children travel to Africa?
Can I use American currency in the countries featured on the tours?
Some places will accept the U.S. dollar or other foreign currencies, while others prefer the local currency. Be prepared to exchange your currency to the local currency to ensure that you do not have any issues.
How much spending money should I bring?
This is up to each guest. We suggest no less than $300 USD
How much should I tip?
Tipping is strongly encouraged on our tours. Many of the people who are serving us rely on tips to supplement their income. It is customary to give 15% as a standard tipping amount.
What should I wear?
Comfortable summer clothing is advised for our subsaharan African, South American and Dubai tours. Wearing flashy jewelry, expensive clothing and accessories is not advised.
Is the water safe to drink?
Our base accommodations are 3 and 4 star hotels. Our platinum tours have 5 star hotel options. They all have potable water to bathe and brush teeth with. We do not advise drinking non-bottled water from restaurants outside of the hotels. Additionally, we do not recommend eating fresh fruits from street vendors.
How large are the tour groups?
Tour sizes vary and can range from 2 people to 40 people. Our maximum tour size for a non-custom tour is 40 people.
What are some other recommended items ?
What does “Leave America In America” mean?
-
From East Coast time, there is a FIVE hour time difference in Ghana, a SEVEN hour time difference in East Africa and a THREE hour time difference in Salvador, Brazil. Dubai can be either an EIGHT or NINE hour time difference based in the time of year. We encourage getting adequate rest prior to the trip. We do not recommend depriving yourself of rest because you may not be able to make it up during the flight. -
Food is oftentimes made to order vs microwaved. Guests are advised to “pack their patience” as many of these countries are not microwave societies. You can expect to wait 30 to 45 min for food at most non-buffet restaurants. -
Traffic can be very heavy at times and can be more intense than some of the worst traffic in America. This is a part of the daily routine for many countries outside of America. “Pack your patience” and enjoy observing the culture. -
The roads can be very bumpy at times. This is a part of the culture as these countries are improving their infrastructure daily. -
For the most part, WiFi and 3G service is good. Be prepared for the occasional lapses in service during travel from one location to another. There may be times where the WiFi does not work properly in the hotels. Additionally, be careful to turn OFF your cellular service to avoid unwanted roaming fees. -
Be prepared for a very firm mattress at some hotels. -
Irons and ironing boards do not automatically come standard with each room but are available upon request from the front desk at most hotels. -
Uber and Taxi (in Ghana only) options are local currency cash based. You can use your Uber app but will need to switch it to cash mode. Taxi only accepts Ghanaian currency. Use these services at your own risk. -
Currency exchange - Upon arrival, you will need to convert your US dollars to the local currency. There are numerous currency exchange kiosks available. If you are new to currency exchange, it will be important to prepare for the difference so that you can tip properly.
-
Street vendors can be persistent at some of the locations. Simply tell them “No thank you” when they ask. They will ask again. This is when you should stand firm and say “No, thank you” again or until they stop. They are not threatening. They are trying to earn a living.
Does the food taste the same as American food?