Welcome to OUT Adventures
Gay owned OUT Adventures and Intrepid Travel have partnered together to provide a comfortable travel environment for not only for gay and lesbian travellers,
but also their friends and family who want to experience the world at the grassroots level with like-minded people. Go on, Get OUT and experience the real world.
The wild beauty of Crete makes it an ideal walking destination. Discover old-world foothill villages where life is simple, close to nature and steeped in ancient customs and tradition. Challenge yourself hiking magnificent coastal trails, following precarious cliff-side mule paths and exploring cavernous gorges. Vibrant flora and fauna make discovering Crete a pleasure, as do the friendly locals who have maintained their way of life for centuries. Experience a part of Greek culture rich in history and altogether perfect for an outdoor adventure.
WARNING - This is a new trip for us!
While we have been operating in Europe for over four years now and have had a team of researchers travelling in Europe to put together this itinerary, it must still be remembered that this is the first year we are operating this style of trip and this itinerary. To be frank, we expect some things to go wrong. We give this warning when we head to new destinations or create new itineraries - and we find there are more pleasant surprises in store than unpleasant ones. But the warning is sincere and, if it concerns you, we recommend that you wait for a year until we get any bugs ironed out. Any improvements to our itinerary are noted immediately on our website, so before booking and travelling please download the latest trip notes from our website.
Best seasons for travelling:
The main tourist season in Europe is May - June and September - October. July and August are quieter as locals head off on summer holidays and tourists avoid the hotter months. Most travellers choose to visit at this time for the warm sun and the good weather. While April, July, August and November are traditionally not the busy seasons, we don’t know why! With less tourists, we think it is a great time to travel.
But please note, summer in Europe can get very hot - even up into the high 30s (degrees celsius).
Style
Trip Map
Itinerary
Culture Shock Rating
Physical Rating
Gay Rating
Physical Preparation
Included Activities
Spending Money
Important Notes
Accommodation
Please ensure you download and review the latest trip notes prior to your trip as we continually make improvements and changes to our itineraries. This will ensure you have the most up to date information about your trip. We will provide you with the day by day trip itinerary (walking guide) and maps on arrival day. Pick it up on arrival at your start point hotel. Check the 'visa' section of these trip notes for any information about visa requirements on this trip.
You can arrive at any time on day 1 as there are is no walking planned. If you are going to be arriving later than 6:00pm please inform the hotel reception. See Joining Point Instructions for the telephone number.
Check-in time at our joining point hotel is after 2:00pm. Early check-in is not guaranteed, however if you arrive early, luggage storage is available. Speak to the hotel reception on arrival.
Rich in natural splendour, and in countless reminders of its ancient and turbulent past, Crete affords an inexhaustible source of vivid impressions. Our introduction to western Crete is Chania, with its busy and colourful market and lively waterfront.
Inland, where the Levka Ori (White Mountains) rise to over 2400m/8000ft, the high ground is riven by a series of deep gorges leading down to the south coast. The Samaria gorge is now a National Forest Park, while the Imbros Gorge was at one time a main route for pack animals across the island. As you hike through this largest of all Greek islands, there are orange and olive groves, forests of cypress, pine and evergreen oak - and a profusion of wild flowers, some of them found only in Crete, for the island is host to more plant species than are found in the whole of the British Isles. This wealth of flowers and herbs sustains a large insect and butterfly population, which, in part, explains the popularity of Crete with migrant birds. Some 250 different species of migrant birds have been identified in Crete. In the high mountains griffon vultures and even lammergeiers may be observed as well as other birds of prey. You also pass the scattered ruins of former civilisations and occupations, including Roman, Byzantine, Venetian, and Turkish. However to see remains of the earlier Minoan civilisation you will need to spend longer on Crete.
Cretan life reflects its natural surroundings. In the foothill villages, where life is simple and very close to nature, you will meet a proud people, devoted to their customs and traditions, and genuinely generous in their hospitality.
On day 2 trek to Gingilos.
Ascend to the summit of Mt. Gingilos, a rugged peak of 1975m/6480ft involves some scrambling and is above the grade of this tour, but the Linoselli saddle at about 1750m, half-way between the spring and the summit provides an enjoyable, if more leisurely walk with spectacular views in all directions. You return by the same route back down to the plateau, crossing it on farmers' tracks to return to the hotel. 5.5 hours walking from Xiloscalo to Linoselli saddle and back to Omalos.
On day 3 walk 16kms to Agia Roumeli through the Samaria Gorge- one of the most spectacular in Europe.
Walk the full length of the Gorge of Samaria. This is a popular walk and you are unlikely to be the only ones on the trail, but by starting a little later or a little earlier you can miss the crowds. The gorge, one of the finest in Europe, is designated a National Forest Park. The forest trees are mostly evergreens: pine, cypress and holly oak, with massive plane trees close to watercourses. 17 kilometres long, the gorge walls rise in places to 600 metres. The flora of the gorge is particularly abundant in the spring. On the way down you pass the chapel of Ay. Nikolaos, surrounded by some of the largest and most ancient cypress trees in Crete, and later, the old deserted village of Samaria, a nice spot for a picnic with tables, shade and water. Next, the gorge narrows towards the famous Iron Gates which are at one point a mere two metres wide. You emerge finally at the village of Agia Roumeli.
Day 4 is a free day.
On day 5 do a coastal walk to Loutro- 6-7 hours.
Today is a favourite for many people: a magnificent coastal walk, at first along the pebbly beach, then above low cliffs through fragrant woodland of Calabrian pine, dropping down at one point to the beach to visit the little church of Aghios Pavlos, where St Paul is said to have landed on his voyage to Rome; then across a bare and rocky hillside before descending to the oasis-like Marble Beach; after a break you continue along the cliffs to Loutro.
After an early start to catch the cool of the morning, you walk along the shore eastwards for an hour or so before turning inland to climb the 600m/2000 ft coastal escarpment, via the dramatic Sellouda mule track, which winds up through the cliffs. Hopefully you will reach the top just before the shade leaves the path to rest and refresh yourselves while admiring the panorama from this eerie-like spot high above the coast. After a break you continue on across a barren stony plateau and through pine forest to the almost deserted village of Aradaina perched on the edge of the awesomely deep Aradaina gorge. The village church is a scheduled ancient monument. You have the choice of crossing the bridge for memorable views down the gorge, or following the village mule track down to the bottom and up the other side, and you reach Anopolis by mid afternoon. 18km/11 miles/7 hours.
At the mountain village of Anopolis, where you are likely to see local men in traditional dress of baggy trousers and crocheted headgear, you get a feel of the old Crete of 40 years ago. We are using a new English-speaking guesthouse well located overlooking the village square of Anopolis. All rooms have en-suite facilities. The village church is just across the square, but after your long walk today you should sleep soundly despite the church bells.
On day 7 you travel with the baggage (included in the tour price) down the long winding road to Chora Sfakion, then after dropping the baggage off continue by bus (11am) or taxi (fares not included) to the village of Komitadhes at the lower end of the gorge. The traverse of the gorge up to Imbros village (moderate grade) takes about 3 hours. At Imbros there is a fairly basic taverna where you can get lunch before catching the afternoon bus back to Chora Sfakion which passes at around 3.30pm. 3 to 3.5 hours walking.
Day 8 is departure day. There are no activities planned for today and you are able to depart the hotel at any time. Check out time from the hotel is 10:00am. If you are departing later, you can arrange luggage storage at the hotel reception. There may be a small service fee.
The itinerary attached is correct at time of printing. Please note: occasionally our itineraries are updated during the year to incorporate improvements stemming from past travelers' comments and our own research. Our brochure is usually released in November each year. As such the information given in this itinerary may be slightly different to that in the brochure. It is VERY IMPORTANT that you print and review a final copy of your Trip Notes a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans. For the latest updated Trip Notes please visit our website: www.out-adventures.com
The trip includes a range of accommodation, such as basic hotels with western facilities or overnight trains. Days of being on the move are well interspersed, communication with the outside world is ever-present and a wide variety of food is commonly available.
Be prepared for some serious physical activity. This may be treks of up to 6 hours per day in steep terrain, or extended bike rides of more than one day. The fitter you are, the more you will enjoy your holiday.
Early mornings:
On some long walking days we recommend you depart early in the morning to ensure your optimise your time at your next destination and complete most of the journey in the cooler hours of the day.
Temperatures:
There will be a variety of temperatures ranging from extreme cold in the evenings to oppressive heat in the summer. Please be prepared for extreme temperatures and pack accordingly. If you commonly feel discomfort or suffer health issues when experiencing either very cold or extremely hot temperatures, consider if this trip is right for you.
Physical fitness levels:
A good level of fitness will be expected and will certainly help increase the enjoyment of the trip. Participants are recommended to consult their GP/doctor if exercise has not been attempted for an extended period of time and inform them of what you are about to do.
We strongly recommend that you undertake a training program according to your level of fitness for at least four or five months leading up to the trip. This will allow you to build your fitness steadily so that you will enjoy and complete the trip with plenty of energy left over! To avoid injury, don't leave training as an afterthought and START EARLY.
Please objectively assess your fitness level in conjunction with reading the itinerary to ensure this trip is right for you.
Minimum age of travellers:
The minimum age for children on these self-guided itineraries is 8 years old however we do recommend you consider the physical demands of this trip before choosing to bring your children. We do not recommend the trip for children under 12 due to long walking days and physical preparation required to complete the route.
How do I know if this is the trip for me?
This is an eight-day trip in which most days are spent walking. The length of each day varies from three to a maximum of seven hours walking. Hours of walking, which may vary from individual to individual, means hours of actual walking and does not include stops for lunch, sightseeing or rests.
On certain days the walk takes you into the hills where the paths cross a more rugged terrain – please make sure that your footwear provides sufficient ankle support.
The walking is varied and interesting, including arid hills of limestone and sandstone, and lush plains, fertile valleys and farmland. The paths over the hills are stony and dry underfoot (even after rain), and require light walking boots for comfort and support. In the valleys there are quiet asphalt lanes, woodland and farmland tracks and paths across open country.
This self guided trip is suitable for regular hillwalkers and/or cyclists who are comfortable with the idea of a full day’s (6-7hrs+) exercise. No technical (eg. climbing) ability is needed, but you do need to be prepared for possible adverse weather conditions. A good general level of fitness is necessary to get the most out of your trip. For the hiking on this trip the general rule is the more preparation you have done for it, the more you will enjoy it. Although you are not walking at altitude or setting any distance records each day, the hike can still be demanding, as you walk through hilly terrain with the possibility of variations in temperature. We recommend that you undertake regular aerobic exercise in the weeks before you travel, particularly if you are not in the habit of regular exercise. Walking, jogging, swimming or riding a bike are all good ways to increase your aerobic fitness, which will allow you to enjoy the trip to its fullest.
This is a list of included activities on this trip. All other activities are optional and at your own expense.
For a list of optional activities and sightseeing available on this trip, see the optional activities section below.
If you choose not to participate in the included activities on this itinerary, the cost will not be refunded.
Intrepid trip representative
Welcome drink
Luggage transported en route
Walking guide (a printed set of comprehensive route directions)
Pre-booked accommodation at each location
Maps
Every traveler is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travelers may drink more than others while other travelers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping, participating in optional activities and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.
Emergency contact details:
All passengers on Intrepid trips are required to provide their next-of-kin contact and travel insurance details to the agent or Intrepid prior to the departure of your trip.
We require the following information -
Next-of-kin name
Relationship
Next-of-kin telephone number and area code
Insurance provider
Policy number
24 hour emergency contact number for insurance company
Passport number.
Five or eight day itinerary:
This trip is available as a five day and an eight day itinerary. Eight days gives you more time to unwind and really get to know an area and its people. The itinerary will usually include two days for sightseeing and relaxing. Five days might suit you if you are looking for some independent walking as a short break, or as part of a more extended trip.
Expense in Europe:
Europe is often misjudged as being a very expensive destination. With tourism booming, the influx of cheap flights from all over Europe and the rest of the world, and the value of the Euro, prices for some items are more expensive than prices you would be used to at home. Eating in local restaurants and from markets can be inexpensive, but for nights out at tourist friendly restaurants you can expect to pay much more. With drinks, tipping and of course - shopping, it can all add up. Budgets are a personal choice but please bear in mind that you should not expect Europe to be a budget blow-out as long as you vary your choice in standards of restaurants and are prepared to cater for the occasional picnic.
Travelling alone:
These trips are designed for independent travellers. You can travel alone or with 1-3 other people. As there is no personal contact with an Intrepid member while on the trip, you should consider if travelling alone is right for you. Walking alone inevitably involves exposure to a degree of risk in the event of accident or illness, as there will be nobody with you to seek help in these circumstances.
The routes takes you through remote paths and forest tracks, sometimes this means you do not see other people for hours and there may be occasions when nobody else is walking a particular path at the same time as you. You should therefore carefully consider the risks involved before deciding to take a Independent trip on your own. Our minimum recommendation is that you carry a mobile phone but please note that there are always areas where network coverage is not available. Most travellers on these itineraries are groups of friends or couples, however if solitude and time to yourself is your idea of a real holiday, then these trips might be just right for you.
Minimum age:
The minimum age on our Independent Self-Guided range of trips is 8 years. However due to the physical requirements to complete the trip we do not recommend this itinerary for anyone under the age of 12.
Early check-in throughout the trip:
Throughout the trip we request that our hotels prepare rooms in time for your arrival, however this is not always possible which means you will not always be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead the hotel will store your luggage while you explore your new destination or enjoy a well deserved drink and rest your legs.
Alterations to itinerary:
Please note that while we operate successful trips in Europe throughout the year, some changes may occur in our itineraries due to inclement weather and common seasonal changes to routes. You will be advised at the time of travel.
Extreme temperatures in Europe:
Please note that Europe can have extreme weather! Summer (July and August) can be very hot reaching temperatures in the high 30s (degrees Celsius). It can be quite uncomfortable for those not used to extreme heat. Some of our hotels do not have air-conditioning, as it can be a major financial and environmental strain on our hotels and the local towns.
Drinking water in Europe:
Please note that tap water is perfectly safe to drink throughout Europe. You can save money and minimise damage to the environment by bringing a refillable water bottle with you and using that instead of buying bottled water every day. For your health, always carry ample drinking water with you when walking.
Arrival and departure transfers:
Please note that arrival or departure transfers are not included in this trip. Please see joining point address for information on how to reach the joining point hotel.
Additional accommodation:
If you have purchased pre or post trip accommodation (if available), you may be required to change rooms from your trip accommodation for these extra nights.
Accommodation:
The style of accommodation described in the day to day itinerary is a guideline. On rare occasions alternative arrangements may need to be arranged due to availability of rooms in our usual accommodation. A similar standard of accommodation will be used in these instances.
Travelling in Europe:
Europe is a region which may be very different to anything you have experienced before. Expense, crowds, differing cultures can result in initial culture shock but should be seen as an exciting new challenge. During our time here we have come to love this region but we know that we should always expect to encounter some difficulties along the way. In some parts of Europe there are very different attitudes to time keeping and service. Buses and trains will sometimes be late, plumbing can sometimes be temperamental and waiters may not seem as keen to serve you as you may be used to. If you are able to travel with a lot of patience and a sense of humour, then we know that you - like all of us - will be captivated by Europe.
Communication:
Please be aware that telephone calls made from hotel rooms are extremely expensive. We advise you do not rely on hotel telephones to communicate while travelling. Use local phones or call shops, or rely on the internet.
Personal property:
Please be careful not to leave anything behind on your trip. We will be unable to return it to you until the end of the season, and will then require you to kindly reimburse the postage.
Breakfasts included:
There are some simple breakfasts included on this trip which are usually comprised of bread, butter, jam, coffee/tea and juice (or similar).
Luggage transport:
Your luggage will be moved from hotel to hotel every day, all you need do is pack your bag/s and leave it with the hotel staff. Please ensure your bag is clearly labelled with your name and 'Intrepid Travel WAE Walk'. (Please note as well that, as our trip representatives have more than one destination to look after, we cannot guarantee that your luggage will arrive at the hotel before you do if you are a speedy walker! Generally luggage will arrive by mid-afternoon at the latest.)
Maximum of 12 travellers per group
Guesthouses (7 nts)
Please keep in mind that accommodation as shown in the itinerary is subject to availability at time of booking. The closest available alternative will be substituted if our first choice hotels are not available. Deductions or supplements may be applied to the trip price as a result.
While travelling with us you will experience the vast array of wonderful food available in the world. Generally, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where and what to eat, not all meals are included in the trip price. This also gives you more budgeting flexibility. Please check the 'meal inclusions' section below for details of meals included.
Allow EUR €280 for meals not included.
7 Breakfasts
Luggage transportation from point to point, local bus, walking
This trip is fully self-guided which means that it is not accompanied by an Intrepid group leader. Intrepid Travel or their agent cannot be held responsible for any changes that may occur due to local conditions or circumstances beyond their control. This includes festivals and public holidays that may affect the itinerary. No refund is available on any unused part of this itinerary.
To make sure your trip runs smoothly an Intrepid Trip Representative is available for you throughout your journey.
Trip Representatives are all conversant with the local language and in English.
Your Trip Representative may be available for several other Intrepid travellers at the same time as you are travelling so they may not be able to help immediately if required. Either the Trip Representative or our 24 hour helpfline is always available to help in emergencies.
They will be available to do the following:
~ Meet or telephone you at some time at your first hotel on day 1 or day 2 and talk through your itinerary with you
~ Advise you about any recent changes to the route
~ Answer any questions you have about your trip and provide any important information to help you enjoy your trip
~ Arrange the transport your luggage from point to point
~ Confirm all accommodation arrangements at each overnight destination
Your main reference while on this trip will be your Route Notes (a printed set of comprehensive route directions). This will be availale for you to pick up on day 1 at the start point hotel or your Trip Representative will bring it to the meeting at your start point hotel. This will include:
~ Telephone numbers that you can call in case of difficulty or emergency. There will be a 24 hour number to call.
~ Directions with exact details about how to get from one point to the next
~ Details of the hotels you will use on the route
As this is an Independent Adventure there is no group leader on this trip.
2010 Joining Point Hotel for this trip. To be advised
Arrival transfers are not included in the price of this trip.
We are currently contracting our joining point hotel for this trip. Please ensure you download the most recent trip notes before your departure so you have the correct joining point details.
We don't expect any problems (and nor should you!) but if for any reason you are unable to commence your group trip as scheduled, please contact your starting point hotel, requesting that you speak to or leave a message for your trip leader.
If you have pre-booked an airport transfer (where available) and have not made contact with our representative within 30 minutes of clearing customs and immigration, we recommend that you make your own way to the Starting Point hotel, following the Joining Instructions in the Trip Notes. Should this occur, please apply to your travel agent for a refund of the transfer cost on your return.
No refund is available on missed transfers or portions of your trip owing to a different flight arrival or delayed flight arrival. Any additional cost incurred in order to meet up with your group is at your own expense.
2010 Finish Point Hotel for this trip. To be advised
We are currently contracting our finishing point hotel for this trip. Please ensure you download the most recent trip notes before your departure so you have the correct joining point details.
Departure transfers are not included in the price of this trip.
Departure transfers are not included in the price of this trip.
In the case of a genuine crisis or emergency, Intrepid's Morocco/Europe Office can be reached on Tel: +212 (0) 66192 2693. For further contact details please use the following page: http://www.intrepidtravel.com/ourtrips/contact/.
Please also make sure you have access to an additional USD$400, to be used when unforeseen incidents or circumstances outside our control (eg. a natural disaster, civil unrest or an outbreak of bird flu) necessitate a change to our planned route.
Please note that visas are the responsibility of the individual traveler. The visa requirements for your trip vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. We keep the following information up to date as much as possible, but rules do change.
It is important that you check for yourself.
Europe:
Most western visitors do not require visas to visit Europe as a tourist, and are stamped in on arrival for 3 months. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months. On arrival visitors may be asked to present return tickets and evidence of means to cover your intended stay.
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What you need to bring will vary according to the trip style you have chosen, the countries you are visiting and when you are travelling. Generally speaking you should pack as lightly as possible. On the vast majority of our trips you are expected to carry your own luggage and although you will not be required to walk long distances with your luggage (max 30 minutes) we recommend keeping the weight under 10kg/22lb.
Most travellers carry their luggage in a backpack, although an overnight bag with a shoulder strap would suffice if you travel lightly. Smaller bags or backpacks with wheels are convenient although we recommend your bag has carry straps. You will also need a day pack/bag to carry water and a camera etc for daytrips.
We recommend that you take a mobile phone with you while walking independently, so that you can contact the Intrepid trip representative if necessary. This is especially recommended if you are travelling alone, but not quite so important if you have a companion. Please be aware that there may be some areas where mobile phone coverage is poor.
If you have any queries about using your mobile phone abroad please contact your network service provider.
It is important that your bags can be locked, as it may be necessary to store your luggage prior to your arrival at the next destination (and left unattended).
The sale of bottled water contributes to an enormous environmental problem around the world. In addition to the water in bottles, the production of a 1 litre plastic bottle takes 2 litres of water and 200ml of oil. A large proportion end up in limited landfill or discarded in waterways and natural environments. Please avoid the purchase of bottled water by refilling from the tap or from drinking water dispensers which are provided at some of our accommodation.
The following checklist is to be used as a guide only and is not intended to be a complete packing list. Any other items that you wish to pack are at your own discretion however you should attempt to comply with the suggested luggage weight limit.
Travel documents: passport, visa, travel insurance, air tickets, voucher
Money: travellers cheques/cash/ credit card, money pouch
First Aid kit and personal medication
Alarm clock
Torch/flashlight
Trekking poles/sticks (optional) - help to reduce stress while walking especially up steep slopes. Please check with airlines if they can be taken on as hand luggage.
Refillable water bottle
Comfortable walking shoes with good grip and ankle support
Comfortable socks
Swimming costume
Insect repellent
Sunscreen, hat and sunglasses
Comfortable daypack
Waterproof bags for rain protection while walking
Waterproof jacket
Warm clothes particularly if travelling outside of the summer months
Smarter clothes for nights out
GPS and compass (optional)
Local language phrasebook
Currency exchange rates often fluctuate. For the most up to date rates please refer to the following website: www.oanda.com.
The most convenient and cheapest way to acquire money is via an Automated Teller Machine (ATM) or Bancomat as they are often referred to. Check with your bank in advance concerning the suitability of your account/card overseas and any international fees that will be applied.
You can obtain local currencies easily at airport's and major train station's, but be sure to bring some extra emergency cash that can be exchanged if the ATMs are not functioning.
When leaving home don't forget your PIN and make sure you know the telephone number for cancelling your card if it is stolen. Keep this in a safe place.
Credit cards are not always accepted in stores and restaurants. While travelling we recommend you carry some cash to pay for restaurant bills and other services. Change can be difficult to obtain so throughout the day, try to gain as many small denominations as you can.
You might be advised to take some of your money as travellers' cheques from a major financial institute. Travellers' cheques have security advantages, however please be aware that the exchange rates may not be favourable and that it is difficult to change Travellers' cheques in most countries. Be particularly aware that after hours money exchanges and hotel receptions carry high commissions- sometimes up to 20%.
The Euro (EUR) is the official currency only in the following of our destinations: Austria, Belgium, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Montenegro, the Netherlands, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain. All other destinations still do have their national currencies.
For more information on exchange rates refer to www.oanda.com prior to travel.
For money safety we recommend that you carry your cash and credit cards in a secure money belt or pouch concealed under your clothes.
All departure taxes should be included in your international flight ticket.
If you need to be contacted while travelling we recommend email. Email cafes are generally available throughout the regions we visit, although it is possible you may be without email contact for several days on some itineraries. If someone wishes to contact you in an emergency while you are on one of our trips we recommend that they contact your local booking agent, or refer to our emergency contact details. We don't recommend that family and friends try to contact you through hotels, as they are subject to change and the reception staff may not speak English.
While we always endeavour to provide the best possible holiday experience, due to the nature of travel and the areas we visit sometimes things can and do go wrong. Should any issue occur while you are on your trip it is imperative that you discuss this with your group leader or our local partner straight away so that they can do their best to rectify the problem and save any potential negative impact on the rest of your trip.
We recognise that there may be times when your group leader/local partner may not be able to resolve a situation to your satisfaction - if this is the case please ask the leader if you may speak to their direct manager.
You may also choose to provide details in your online feedback which we ask you to complete within 30 days of the end of your trip but we do ask you to be aware that it is very difficult for us to provide any practical help after the trip is complete.
All OUT Adventures travelers need to be in good physical health in order to participate fully in the group travel experience.
If, in the opinion of our group leader, any traveler is unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or
the rest of the group, OUT Adventures reserves the right to exclude them from all or part of a trip without refund. We therefore
ask that you read the itinerary in these Trip Notes thoroughly and then realistically self-assess your physical ability to complete
the trip as described. Please consult with your doctor if you have any doubts.
Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel.
We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure.
Please refer to our website's Safety page for links to major travel advisories and updates on safety issues
affecting our trips: www.out-adventures.com/safety.
We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe-keeping of your passport,
air tickets, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewelry at home - you won't need it while travelling.
Many of our hotels have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables.
A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. Your leader will accompany you on all included activities however
during your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy or explore at your leisure.
While your group leader will assist you with the available options in a given location, please note that any optional
activities you undertake are not part of your OUT Adventures itinerary, and OUT Adventures makes no representations
about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgment when
selecting an activity in your free time. Please also note that your group leader has the authority to amend or cancel
any part of the trip itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to safety concerns. For more details on the type of conditions
and safety standards you can expect on your trip, please refer to OUT Adventures' operational safety policy at
www.out-adventures.com/safety.
We recommend that you take a moment to read through this information before travelling, and would appreciate any
feedback on how well it is being implemented in the field.
Fire exits:
Please be aware that local laws governing tourism facilities in the Europe differ from those from your home country and not all the accommodation which we use has a fire exit.
Petty theft and personal safety:
Please be aware that while travelling in Europe as there is the risk of pick-pocketing and petty theft, particularly in the more touristy cities. We recommend that you exercise caution when walking alone at night and encourage you to walk together and only on main, well lit thoroughfares. Simple measures like carrying your day pack on your front, not hanging your bag over the back of your chair, and wearing a money belt will reduce any chance that your valuables should go missing. Take care of your valuables at all times. When out sightseeing, leave spare cash and items of value in your hotel safe along with your passport (but carry a photocopy of it for identification purposes). If you are robbed you should report it to the local police and obtain a written report for insurance purposes. We recommend you carry important documents and cash while enroute rather then leave it in your luggage to be transported each day as your bag will be left unattended at hotel receptions while you are making your way to the next point.
Common scams in operation in Europe:
There are some common scams operating in Europe as well. Please ensure that you always travel with a validated ticket on transport systems (this often means stamping your ticket) and that if you are encouraged to enter the metro system without a ticket be warned that this is a ploy to get you fined. Another common scam is used by children who distract you with a map or a newspaper and while you are attending to them, your valuables are stolen. If you see a card game on the street, avoid getting involved. This is another scam that often lures travelers and there is no way you are going to win.
Traffic and driving on opposite sides of the road:
Depending on where you come from please note that drivers in this part of the world may drive on the opposite side of the road than you are used to. Look both ways before crossing any road. Traffic can be a little more chaotic than you might be used to at home. Be aware on the roads and even small streets and alleyways. Vehicles find their ways into impossibly small passages leaving no room for both you and the traffic.
Be aware, stay in well-lit places after dark and keep your valuables safe at all times.
With the exception of our Comfort and In Style trips, our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers share with people of the same sex for the duration of the trip, in accommodation ranging from twin to multi-share. Please note some of our itineraries have accommodation booked on a mixed gender share basis - where applicable this will be specified in our Trip Notes. On our Comfort & In Style trips you have the choice of sharing or paying a single supplement. Please note that this only applies to accommodation during the tour. Pre- and post-trip accommodation will be booked on a single room basis.
We believe strongly in low impact, or rather, positive impact tourism. Broadly speaking this means that we try to minimize the negative aspects of tourism on the local cultures and environments that we visit and highlight the positive aspects. Please refer to our website at www.out-adventures.com/responsibletravel for further details and suggestions on how you can be a responsible traveler.
Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on our trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for OUT Adventures travelers. OUT Adventures' philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter, and in particular the local people who make our destinations such special places. The exploitation of prostitutes is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our group leader has the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they use prostitutes.
All OUT Adventures travelers are required to sign a Participation Form on day 1 of the trip. Please note that signing the form is a prerequisite of travelling with OUT Adventures. The wording of this form follows: "I understand that travelling with OUT Adventures may involve risks (and rewards) above and beyond those encountered on a more conventional holiday, and that I am undertaking an adventure trip with inherent dangers. I understand that I am travelling to geographical areas where, amongst other things, the standard of accommodation, transport, safety, hygiene, cleanliness, medical facilities, telecommunications and infrastructure development may not be of the standard I am used to at home or would find on a conventional holiday. I have read and understood the OUT Adventures Trip Notes for the trip I am undertaking and have provided details of any pre-existing medical conditions I have to OUT Adventures' representatives.
I accept these risks and obligations and I fully assume the risks of travel. I release OUT Adventures from any liabilities connected to these risks to the maximum extent permitted by law."
After your travels, we want to hear from you! This is so important to us that we'll give you 5% off the price of your next trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 4 weeks of finishing your trip. Go to: www.out-adventures.com/feedback
Thanks
Do you want to see your travel photos published? To celebrate all that is travel photography,
OUT Adventures holds an annual photography competition. For more information, prize details, entry form and competition conditions,
please visit www.out-adventures.com/photocomp.
Send entries to The Editor,
OUT Adventures,
PO Box 98026, 970 Queen St E
Toronto, ON
Canada, M4M 3L9
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