FAQ

Bella Sicilia Tours offers vacations for families?

Bella Sicilia Tours travels the world with a variety of Family Adventures. Bella Sicilia Tours has established minimum ages to make sure that the featured activities are appropriate for all age groups. The minimum age (for Family vacations) varies according on the destination. You’ll also see that some of the more adventurous locations have a higher minimum age requirement. 

Who are Bella Sicilia Tours travelers?

Travelers who have a desire to step off the beaten path should engage in Bella Sicilia experiences. There is a Bella Sicilia trip to suit your interests and comfort level, whether of whether you’re traveling alone, with a group of pals, or are 18 or 70 years old. You can determine if a trip is suited for you by looking at the physical and cultural ratings that each experience has. For the majority of excursions, only a feeling of adventure and a curiosity about the world are needed. 

How many people will be traveling with me?

We keep our group sizes modest because we believe that good things come in little packages. This implies that we are small enough to maneuver through villages without frightening the residents. Although our group sizes are typically 20 people, on the majority of our trips, you’ll travel in an intimate setting with 12–20 other travelers. We use specially designed vans that can accommodate up to 10 passengers for our overland excursions. A smaller group size brings a more personal experience with our tour guides. 

Are there age restrictions on your trips?

The minimum age for the bulk of our excursions is 15. All youngsters under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult. The age requirement for our overland excursions is 18. Our Family excursions and Short Break Adventures welcome younger children, but please check each trip’s summary page on the website for the minimum age requirement. Most of our tours don’t have an upper age limit, but anyone over 70 must complete a Self-Assessment Form.

Who will be my group leader?

Although we can’t reveal your leader to you before the trip, we can assure you that they will be fantastic. Our executives are authorities in their regions, some because they have visited there frequently, some because they are natives who are eager to show you around. 

Can I just do part of the trip?

If you must depart a day or so earlier than planned, you might choose to sign off the trip even though you won’t be reimbursed for any unused time. We will alert our team on the ground to best meet your needs if you let us know before traveling that you’ll be coming late or need to depart before the trip is over.

Can I make any changes to the itinerary of my group trip, either before or during the trip?

Before making a reservation, please make sure you are satisfied with the itinerary for your group tour because we are unable to make changes for individual travelers. However, if you and a group of friends, coworkers, or even students at your school would like a custom itinerary, get in touch with our highly skilled team, who can create one, especially for you.

Can I add an extra night at the beginning or end of my group trip?

Yes, you can. Just let your adventure consultant know while making the reservation.

I’m travelling alone – is that OK?

The appeal of the  Bella Sicilia Tours way of traveling lies in the fact that many of our guests sign up because they are traveling alone and want to connect with others who share their interests. Find out more about traveling alone.

If I am travelling solo, will I be charged for having my own room?

On our travels, twin-share accommodations are arranged. According to the gender designation on each traveler’s passport, we pair solo travelers with another person of the same gender. Alternatively, you can pay for a private room if you prefer your own space (available on the majority of our trips).

We work to create a welcoming environment for everyone as a responsible tour operator. Please get in touch with us if your gender identity differs from what is listed on your passport so that we may go over your rooming alternatives.

A tiny number of itineraries include some reservations for lodging made on an multi-share, open-gender basis (for example on a felucca in Egypt or an overnight train in Vietnam). When that happens, it will be made very clear in your Essential Trip Information before you book and leave.

No matter your condition, Bella Sicilia Tours is dedicated to making travel universally accessible. Given that you will likely have to carry your own luggage and use public transportation on several of your visits, we kindly ask that you carefully assess whether you are physically and mentally capable of completing the schedule you have chosen.

When possible, we will modify the way our tours are run to accommodate the needs of travelers with disabilities. For example, we may reserve accommodations on the ground floor or ask our tour guides to give key instructions in writing in addition to vocally. By taking a trip with a friend or companion who can help with certain requirements, many travelers with disabilities have been able to enjoy their vacations. If attending a group excursion is not feasible, we might be able to arrange for a private departure for you. For further details on any of our itineraries, kindly get in touch with our sales staff.

Who will I have to share a room with on the trip, and how is room sharing set up?

On our travels, twin-sharing accommodations are assigned. According to the gender designation on each traveler’s passport, we pair solo travelers with another person of the same gender. Alternatively, you can pay for a private room if you prefer your own space (available on the majority of our trips).

Can I reserve a room by myself?

The majority of trips offer individual rooms; to find out if one is offered, see the Essential Trip Information or the trip overview page on our website. If so, kindly request it when making the reservation.

Could we reserve a triple room?

Depending on the type of vacation you select, you might be able to request a triple room. While you can ask for a triple room when making your reservation, it can’t be guaranteed because of how far in advance we make our reservations.

If I’m the only single person of my gender in the room, do I still have to pay for a private room?

You can get your own room if you’re the only single traveler of your gender on the excursion. 

Can you guarantee that my traveling companion and I have a double bed?

Just let us know when making your reservation if you intend to share a bed and a room with a companion. Although a double bed cannot be guaranteed, we will try to make accommodations for you. Two single beds that are put together to create a “double” might be a possibility in some locations.

I want to share a room with a friend with whom I’m traveling, but I want to make sure that our beds are separate. Is this possible?

If you’ve booked with a companion, you’ll automatically be bunked into a room together unless you pay for private rooms because the majority of our trips are planned on a twin-share basis. The majority of twin rooms come with two single beds; however, if you want separate beds, please specify this when making your reservation so we may advise the lodging establishment.

Will my particular dietary needs be met if I have them?

We will make every effort to satisfy any dietary requirement, but in some remote locations, it may be quite challenging to ensure. If there are any locations on your schedule where this is the case, we will let you know. Any dietary restrictions or allergies should be disclosed at the time of booking, and we’ll pass this information on to your leader. Additionally, it’s a good idea to include a card with your dietary restrictions written on it in the local language for when you eating away from the group.

What will the meals on my trip be like?

One of the most thrilling aspects of traveling is eating. We like to think of it as an excursion for all the senses. There may be some familiar stuff, but frequently you’ll be met with the fresh, fascinating, and downright odd of the culinary world. Additionally, our flexible schedules frequently let you dine with the group or venture out on your own, so you can eat to fit any preference or budget.

Can I ingest the water in the nations I travel to?

It might not be a good idea to drink the local water in some places. Our destination pages, which are accessible from the red navigation bar at the top of our home page, include more information about each nation.

Flights

The cost of the trip does not include travel to the tour destination. On-tour flights and all other forms of transportation, however, are included. Please get in contact with us if you need assistance booking an international flight and would want a price estimate. Our premium booking assistance service comes with a fee. 

Airport shuttles

Airport transfers are not included in the tour price. 

When making a reservation, you can add arrival/departure transfers to the majority of our trips. You can also get in touch with us to make changes to an existing reservation.

Check out the Joining Point instructions in your essential trip material for more details on how to arrive. The cost of a taxi from the airport to the hotel is frequently indicated here. The transport will undoubtedly cost more than a cab, but it’s crucial to keep in mind that you are paying for a private service and a dependable driver who will provide the security that travelers frequently want when they arrive in an unfamiliar nation.

Booking a trip that is on request means we can’t instantly confirm your reservation since we need to verify with our local operators about space availability.

Because our local operations team confirms numerous services, such as on-tour transportation and lodging, as they go, we require full payment for on-request tours. If a spot opens up, you’re good to go. If not, we’ll give you a complete refund.

If you’ve reserved a trip on demand, we’ll send you an email with an update in 2 to 4 business days. In the interim, kindly refrain from making any non-refundable travel reservations.

Oh no! I’m sorry you missed out. You must act quickly to take advantage of our specials because they are only available for a short period of time. Be sure to join our email list so you can be informed of upcoming sales.

If you’ve put a trip on hold, you’ll need to reserve your spot with a minimum deposit within five days. However, if a deal starts within those five days, you’re in luck! Your reservation will be canceled if a deposit is not made within five days of making it.

How can I make sure I’m not sharing a room with someone else by adding a single room to my reservation?

On the majority of our tours, you can choose to pay an additional cost to guarantee your own room. When making travel arrangements by phone or live chat, you can ask for a specific accommodation, or get in contact to make changes to an existing reservation.

What kind of room will I get if I purchase a single room?

The grade of the accommodations will vary according on the trip style you’ve selected, though individual rooms normally include a double or single bed. Find out more about our trip preferences.

I wish to reserve flights, airport transfers, additional lodging, or travel insurance. How can I go about this?

Transfers and additional lodging can be arranged with the aid of our adventure advisors. They might also be able to help with insurance and travel arrangements. 

How can I make reservations for extra activities like day trips and excursions?

On the website, you can arrange extra day trips on your own. There is normally no need to make reservations in advance for the optional activities indicated in your itinerary because you can usually sign up for them while traveling, unless it is specifically stated in your Essential Trip Information that some activities must be reserved in advance.

I paid for a vacation, but I haven’t heard anything yet. Is it still happening?

Hold tight, even though we know you’re probably eager to see the confirmation email arrive in your inbox. We may need a few days to process your reservation. Within 2 to 4 business days, we’ll provide you an update.

If the place you reserved for an on-request trip turns out to be unavailability, we’ll email you to let you know and issue a full refund.

How long should it take for me to obtain confirmation after booking trip extras?

Our staff may need a few days to confirm airport transfers, pre- and post-trip lodging, and other extras with our local suppliers in place. We will provide you an update in 2 to 4 business days, please.

When will I learn every aspect of my trip?

Your Essential Trip Information contains all trip specifics. Before the trip starts, we’ll send you an email with any updates if there are any last-minute modifications, like a new joining or finishing location. We advise booking pre- and post-trip lodging via Intrepid since, in most cases, we’ll move you into a new hotel if the joining or finishing point changes, saving you the trouble.

How can I change my traveler information, like my passport number?

By signing into your account with your email address and booking number, you can do this. Go to the “passenger details” area after logging in to update your information, which should include emergency contact information, passport information, insurance information, and dietary and medical needs.

I’m unable to access My Booking, or my information failed to save. What ought I to do?

Oh no! Please re-login and try to add your data again if your information didn’t save or you got an error message the first time.

Close your browser and reopen it if you are experiencing problems logging into your account. Contact our adventure consultants for assistance if you’re still having problems. They’ll be pleased to help.

If you used a travel agent to make your reservation, be sure to provide them your information so they can give it to us. 

How can I update my traveler information if I made my reservation through a travel agent?

Your travel agent is there to assist you with every step of your reservation. Simply share your updated traveler information with your agent, and they will forward it to us. 

Is the operation of my journey assured?

Unless otherwise specified by the minimum group size specified in the Essential Trip Information and/or Special Conditions, our trips are guaranteed to leave once they have three fully paid passengers.

Although we never wish to cancel a vacation, occasionally unavoidable circumstances arise that are beyond both your and our control. We keep a careful eye on all of our locations, and if your trip needs to be rescheduled or canceled because of a Force Majeure Event or for operational needs, we’ll try to let you know at least one month before your departure date. Any changes will be communicated to you if you made your reservation through a travel agent. For further details, see our page on trip cancellations.

What can I do now that my schedule has changed?

We should have sent you an email outlining the changes to your itinerary and any potential alternatives. After reading the message, if you still have questions, contact us by phone or live chat.

Can I modify the dates if I can’t go on the scheduled dates?

We are aware that plans can change! Up to 60 days before to your departure, you can cancel your reservation (fee-free) or keep your deposit as a credit toward a future trip.

A cancellation fee will apply if you want to modify your travel dates less than 60 days before departure, per our Booking Conditions. When making a reservation, we strongly suggest purchasing cancellation insurance, which could help pay cancellation costs.

My companion is no longer able to join us on our trip. Can I obtain a refund or someone to take their place?

Depending on how near the departure time is. If it is after the pay-in-full time, in some cases we might be able to transfer the space to another traveler for a fee.

We may utilize the money from your deposit to reserve specific non-refundable permits or activities for your trip. If you have already paid for your trip but are outside the pay-in-full window, you might be eligible for a partial refund less the cost of the deposit. Additional costs can be charged in accordance with our booking conditions if you are still within the pay in full term. Please contact us to talk about your choices.

How do I cancel my reservation if I want to?

To cancel, kindly contact us via live chat. Only after receiving written authorization from you may we proceed with a cancellation. Depending on the departure date, you can also be subject to a cancellation fee; for more details, please refer to our Booking Conditions. Or visit our Trip Cancellations page for more details on cancellations, credits, and refunds.

I requested trip extras, but I no longer require them. What choices do I have?

Airport transfers and additional lodging are examples of trip extras that are non-refundable; however, you may cancel up to 60 days before to departure and receive a credit against future travel. Please contact us if you want to cancel your extras.

Because we need to clarify every detail of your excursion with our local operators and suppliers as we go, we ask for full payment for some itineraries (e.g. on-tour transport, activities and accommodation). We’ll give you a full refund if we can’t fill your spot on the trip.

Why is my trip’s deposit non-refundable?

We require a deposit since our operations staff immediately begins scheduling your services with our local vendors. Numerous of these services are non-refundable and cannot be transferred to or used by another traveler, such as on-tour activities or hiking permits. Services may have a cancellation or admin cost, which is covered by your deposit, even if they are able to be cancelled.

I made travel plans with pals; may I just pay my portion of the deposit?

Please get in touch with one of our helpful adventure consultants by phone or live chat so they can send you a secure payment link for the deposit amount you desire to pay if you simply want to pay your portion of the deposit. This will help you keep your funds organized.

Not to worry. Please get in touch with us by phone or live chat if you accidentally paid too much so we can arrange a refund.

To avoid a tour cancellation, full payment is required 60 days before departure. By connecting into your account, you may discover the payment due date. Additionally, we’ll email you at least a week before the deadline to let you know.

Oh no! We sincerely want to aid you in planning your upcoming journey. Due to poor internet connections, inaccurate payment information, or insufficient funds, online payments made through our booking engine may be unsuccessful. After reviewing the information above, please contact us if your payment is still not processing.

Sadly, this is not feasible. The same currency in which the trip was initially purchased must be used to pay for all invoices.

Can I pay the trip deposit or remaining balance with credit?

Absolutely. For the majority of our trips, credits don’t expire, so you may use them as a deposit or save them up for another journey. Additionally, you can reserve pre- or post-trip lodging, airport transportation, or custom activities with your credit. Any credit that is left over can be applied to a future flight, an additional passenger on your reservation, or another vacation.

How can I check the amount of credit I have or use it to make a new reservation?

Your credit information should have been provided to you via email, but you may also contact us by phone or live chat to learn more about your credit balance.

How do I use the credit that I have?

Online: Look up your next trip online, then use your credit to complete booking.
Talk to one of our adventure experts so they can assist you in booking your ideal experience.
Travel agent: To use your credit, you must get in touch with the travel agent you used to make your initial reservation. Please get in touch with us with your booking information if your travel agent is no longer in operation so we can help you directly.

Will a rescheduled trip’s credit go bad?

When we have provided credit, it typically has no expiration date. Use it right tonight, tomorrow, or a long time from now. You may use the credit whenever you’re ready.

I had to cancel a trip that I had scheduled in one currency. Is it possible to use the credit toward a vacation in a different currency?

You can only apply credit to another trip in the same currency because our system cannot transfer money between different currencies. We wouldn’t be able to guarantee a fair and accurate conversion rate for you because currency movements are continuously changing.

Can I apply a certificate toward a discounted trip?

Yes, you can. Gift certificates can be applied to both discounted and full-priced travel. To make a reservation with a voucher, contact us by phone or live chat.

*Excluding gift cards that our Customer Care team issues and that can only be used for full-priced travel.

Does Bella Sicilia Tours provide a discount for loyal customers or frequent travelers?

We don’t provide a loyalty discount*, but we do have Bella Sicilia Insiders, a select group of travelers that you are automatically a part of if you’ve already traveled with us. You’ll occasionally receive email updates chock-full of giveaways, partner discounts, Insiders-only sneak peeks at sales, and, most of all, you’ll be the first to learn about new journeys.

Should I purchase travel insurance?

If you’re traveling abroad on any of our tours, you should have travel insurance. It’s crucial that there are no obstacles in the way of you receiving emergency assistance.

For domestic travel, do I need insurance?

If you’re traveling within your own country or region, please make sure you have easy access to the public medical system in the event of an accident before you leave. To update your file, kindly contact us.

Is the insurance that comes with my credit card enough?

Yes, however if you choose this option, you must give your group leader the information on the participating insurer/underwriter, your level of coverage, your policy number, and a 24-hour emergency contact number. These facts are different from your bank’s name and credit card number.

How can I find out if I need a visa to travel somewhere I want to go?

Although we do include information on visa requirements in our Essential Trip Information and offer further information regarding entry, visa, and health requirements on our website, we always advise travelers to check with their local embassy as visa rules can change without prior notice. The websites of the embassies in your home country will always provide details on requirements, expenses, and how to obtain the necessary paperwork. If you’re uncomfortable with the visa application process, you can pay a travel agent to take care of it for you.

How can I arrange for a visa?

To arrange for your visa(s), kindly get in touch with the relevant local embassy.

The political stability of the nation I shall pass through on my journey worries me.

For Bella Sicilia Tours, the security of our travelers, leaders, and operators is of utmost importance. In light of this, we keep a close eye on global events, and Bella Sicilia bases its operational choices on well-informed advice from a variety of sources and particularly the seriousness of the travel warning issued. If this advisory is at Level 4 “Do Not Travel,” Bella Sicilia Tours will either cancel the trip or change the schedule to avoid the problematic areas.

How secure are my possessions when traveling?

While we do all in our power to keep your possessions safe, we are traveling to some fascinating places that occasionally harbor some fairly good criminals. Both a lockable suitcase or money belt and travel insurance are essential.

How should I carry money safely?

Cash, credit cards, and travel money cards are all often used and are all advised to have on hand. For extra country-specific information, consult your Essential Trip Information and the destination page for that country on our website.

Will drugs be able to be refrigerated? as in Insulin

There is no guarantee that refrigeration will be available. The majority of our city hotels typically have access to modest refrigerators, but outside of these places, especially whether trekking or staying in homestay settings, you cannot count on having access to refrigeration. If you are traveling with medication that needs to be refrigerated, kindly let Bella Sicilia know.

What vaccine and medical criteria are there?

The medical and general immunization needs vary by country, and since we are not medical professionals, we are unable to provide advice on this matter. For information on the most recent immunization requirements and advice, please see your local physician or travel physician. 

What if I become sick or hurt while traveling and can’t continue?

Our leaders are trained to handle these circumstances, and we’ll work to get you assistance as soon as we can. Our local offices will assist you in finding the right medical care if you have to end the trip early due to illness and make sure someone at home is aware of the situation. We’ll do everything in our power to get you home or to where you’re going next. You may go get travel insurance, which should cover any expenses incurred in the event of illness.

Which currency is used where I’m going? Which amount—cash or credit cards—should I bring? During my trip, may I use my credit card?

It is a good idea to travel with a credit card, ATM card, or a bank-issued “cash card” expressly for travel as travelers’ checks are no longer widely used. Having multiple solutions ensures that you are covered in the event that one doesn’t work. If you can withdraw money depends on potluck in some nations. It will function one day and not the next, but it will function for your pal. Why, yes! In Cuba, where only Visa cards are accepted, Visa cards are more readily accepted than Mastercard.

Which kind of luggage do you suggest I bring?

Most adventures involve you to carry your own luggage, sometimes up and down stairs and onto and off of transportation. We advise you to bring a backpack as a result. 

Can I store extra luggage at the hotel at the starting point?

Most starting point hotels offer storage for extra bags, but you do it at your own risk. For this service, a small price is frequently imposed. Of course, this only benefits you if your journey is circular (i.e. returning to the same starting point).

What attire and shoes should I bring for a trek?

Hiking boots are unquestionably advised for more strenuous excursions. Hiking boots or running shoes will do if the physical rating is under 3. Please be sure to do your homework on the weather and temperature for the time of year you will be trekking and pack appropriately since many Intrepid treks will involve hiking in circumstances that are close to freezing. A “checklist” for packing is also included in your essential trip information.

What mandatory documents must I bring?

You should always travel with a valid passport, any necessary visas, travel insurance, and Bella Sicilia paperwork. 

Can I refuse to participate in some events if I want to?

Absolutely. If there are any mandatory or elective activities you don’t want to do, you are free to pursue your own interests. The only time this does not apply is when we are trekking or moving from one place to another. Intrepid cannot pay you if you decide not to participate in an included activity, so kindly have that in mind.

How challenging is the trek on my vacation?

Bella Sicilia Tours offers adventures that range from being somewhat easy to being very tough. The ‘physical grade’ of the journey (available on our website at the top of the trip’s overview page) is the simplest method to tell if it’s the appropriate one for you.

Am I able to relax?

The best part of traveling with Intrepid is that we support independent exploration. Your commander will present alternatives for what you can accomplish when you get at a location. Some members of the group will participate in one activity, while others will do something entirely different, and still others may decide to do nothing except relax on a hammock and read a book. More information on what your trip’s schedule and time constraints allow is provided in your essential trip information.

What happens if I am tardy and miss some of the trip?

Please let our sales team know if you will be arriving late if you know in advance that you will be. We will inform your group’s leader, who will then provide directions for where to meet your group that evening or the next morning at the hotel reception.
It will be your obligation to “catch up” with the group if you expect to arrive one or two days into the schedule (and our group has already left for another location). If this occurs, we will give you the most recent information about where your group will be and when, roughly.

Please call the emergency number included in the Essential Trip Information if you are running late due to unanticipated events or aircraft delays. Intrepid will not pay you back for any unused travel time, but you may frequently make a claim on your travel insurance.

Can you give me a list of the hotels we will be staying at?

We can only give you information on the lodging at your starting and ending points; these specifics are listed in your essential trip information.

Bella Sicilia Tours like patronizing several neighborhood establishments, so we frequently have a few locations in each city where we can rotate our groups. We are unable to provide you with a complete list before to your trip because of this. Your leader might be able to give you this during the welcome meeting on Day 1 so you can send emails with the information to loved ones back home.

What level of lodging should I anticipate?

The level of lodging is determined by the trip style you have selected. Study the various trip types.

Is the lodging heated or air-conditioned?

When traveling to a hot area, it is likely that you will either have a fan or air conditioning because we want our passengers to be as comfortable as possible. Of course, you should anticipate that the amenities will be a little more limited if you are staying in a distant location or at a homestay.

What forms of communication will be offered?

The world’s communication infrastructure is constantly evolving. It’s normally possible to stay in touch with home every few days if you so choose thanks to the widespread availability of Wi-Fi at hotels and public spaces. You won’t be able to speak as easily on hikes or homestays, or in isolated locations. Before you leave a location, your leader will typically give you a heads-up so you may write a quick email or two. Just make sure your phone is unlocked before you travel. Phone cards are simple to obtain. Or, the cheapest place to call in many nations is an internet café.

How can your loved ones get in touch with you?

Family members and friends can get in touch with Intrepid directly if they are unable to reach you in an emergency by phone or email. Your Essential Trip Information has emergency contact information (for your destination).

Will my phone function?

Because many of our destinations are remote and you might not have adequate coverage, we can never guarantee that your phone will function as desired. Before you depart, speak with your phone provider about international roaming, the associated fees, and the coverage you can expect where you’ll be traveling. As an alternative, you may frequently get inexpensive local sim cards (just make sure your phone is unlocked!).

Will I have access to the internet?

In certain regions, there are Wi-Fi hotspots everywhere, while in others, there is no coverage at all. Take advantage of the opportunity to relax and get to know your fellow travelers the old-fashioned manner if you run into the latter.

Will my electrical devices be able to be charged?

You may usually recharge your appliances at the hotel where you are staying. We advise you to carry a travel adaptor. Bring an additional battery for your camera just in case.

What kind of ground conveyance is employed?

There’s a strong possibility you’ll be riding on everything that moves. Your travel preferences will determine the mode of transportation. Learn more about different trip types or go to your essential trip information to find out the precise mode of transportation that was used for your trip.

Is tipping customary elsewhere in the world?

Yes, tipping is typically expected. Ask your leader about regional customs and recommendations for how much to tip at restaurants or when traveling with local guides during your welcome meeting.

Even though it’s not required, leaving the tour guide a tip at the end of your journey is appropriate if you were pleased with the service you received. Although it might not be commonplace to you, the people who will look after you while you travel value it highly, it motivates exceptional service, and it is a firmly established aspect of the tourism sector in many destinations.