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Best of the West

12 Day USA Tour to California, Nevada & Arizona

AARP Member Benefits
AARP Members Save on select departures
SAVE UP TO $263
From $2,363
WAS $2,625
Find this price
12 Days
1 Country

United States

15 Cities

Los Angeles, Anaheim, Santa Monica, Palm Springs, Phoenix, Sedona, Flagstaff, Grand Canyon National Park, Seligman (AZ), Kingman, Las Vegas, Selma, Yosemite National Park, Modesto, San Francisco

2 Meals

1 Breakfast, 1 Iconic Breakfast

Active

Faster paced with mix of 1 and 2-night stays in each destination. Requires walking to participate in top sites.

Average group size average 48-52
Tour brand Costsaver

Costsaver

Costsaver trips are great if you are looking for a budget friendly, semi-independent vacation that is designed with just the basics in mind. Unlike classic tours, Costsaver includes just the essentials including 3-star accommodation (not always centrally located, but close to public transportation for easy access to the center of town), airconditioned motorcoach transportation, an expert Travel Director and Driver. With a basic orientation included in major cities, enjoy the freedom and flexibility to explore the destination at your own pace, or tailor your days on trip with Choice Optional Experiences unique to each itinerary and arranged by your Travel Director. 

View all CostSaver Tours

Welcome to the great American West. Your journey begins in glitzy Los Angeles, driving through the Sonoran Desert to the Grand Canyon. Admire the neon lights of Las Vegas, take in views of El Capitan at Yosemite National Park, and end in the eclectic city of San Francisco.

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Average group size
average 48-52
Tour brand
Costsaver
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Day-by-day itinerary

Day 1

Arrive Los Angeles

Welcome to the land where it's usually 70F or 21C degrees and sunny, southern California. Arriving today, you'll meet up with your Travel Director to get a glimpse of what's to come on your West Coast USA tour, before getting to know Los Angeles, your home for the next two nights. You'll find plenty of dining and entertainment options in Koreatown, Silver Lake, and Hollywood, all just moments away from your hotel.

Rodeo Drive Sign in Beverly Hills, USA
Accommodation The Line Hotel

Day 2

Los Angeles Sightseeing

Ready to get stars in your eyes? This morning's tour with your Travel Director will show you the all-out glitz and glamour of L.A. Join your fellow travelers and see the wealthy streets of Beverly Hills, drive down the iconic Sunset Boulevard, walk along the stars of the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and see the Dolby Theater, home of the Academy Awards. Afterwards, we take you to beautiful Santa Monica where you'll have the afternoon free to explore your way.

Lifeguard cabin on beach in Los Angeles, USA
Accommodation The Line Hotel

Day 3

Los Angeles – Phoenix

We depart Los Angeles for Phoenix passing through San Gorgonio Wind Farm (one of the windiest places in the US). It features thousands of wind turbines that power the popular Coachella Valley resort towns. Passing through the resort town of Palm Springs, you will then cross the Arizona state line and catch your first glimpse of the Colorado River before entering the 'Valley of the Sun,' a region boasting 300 days of sunshine per year. Your final destination for today is Phoenix. This evening is yours to enjoy at your leisure.

Hollywood Boulevard in Los Angeles, USA
Accommodation Delta Hotels by Marriott Phoenix Mesa

Day 4

Phoenix - Sedona - Flagstaff

Heading north out of Phoenix, today you will witness the impressive saguaro cactus in their desert habitat. As you make your way to the small town of Sedona you will notice the red rock landscape provides a stunning backdrop for artists and craftsmen alike. As one of America's best small cities for the arts and a haven for New Age enthusiasts, Sedona lives up to its reputation as an artist's hub. On your way from Sedona to Flagstaff, you will pass through the heart of Oak Creek Canyon. Located in the Coconino National Forest, it is one of the most scenic drives in all of Arizona. With red sandstone walls on one side of the road and the lush river gorge canyon on the other, you can expect an incredible panoramic view.

Cactus in Phoenix, USA
Accommodation Days Hotel by Wyndham Flagstaff
Included Meals Breakfast
Optional Experiences Bell Rock Of Arizona, Sedona, USA
Easy on the Asphalt (90 minutes) See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Optional Experiences Walk through Red Rock Sedona, Arizona USA
Canyons and Cowboys

Grab your cowboy hat and get ready for a true Wild West adventure with Red Rock Western Guide's scenic tour. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking b...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Day 5

Flagstaff - Grand Canyon - Flagstaff

Start today in style with your sights firmly set on one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, the magnificent UNESCO World Heritage-listed Grand Canyon National Park. You'll learn all about the geological formation of the Grand Canyon with your Travel Director, and then it’s up to you to choose how to explore it further. Stop at the Desert View Intertribal Cultural Heritage Site to learn about local Indigenous people on a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Perhaps view the Grand Canyon from above on an optional helicopter tour. Still flying high from an incredible day, you'll finish this evening in the Arizonan escape town of Flagstaff, a laid-back outpost on the historic Route 66.

View of Grand Canyon, USA
Accommodation Best Western Pony Soldier Inn & Suites
Optional Experiences Experience the grandeur of the Grand Canyon South Rim on a fascinating 45 minute aerial tour, USA
Fly Over the Grand Canyon and Kaibab Plateau

Buckle up for a sky-high adventure over the Grand Canyon's South Rim, where every view is a jaw-dropper. Feel the buzz as you glide over the vast K...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Optional Experiences Take a Helicopter ride to the top of Tower butte, Grand Canyon, USA
Grand Canyon Ecostar Helicopter Ride

Take off on Papillon’s longest Grand Canyon helicopter tour that'll have you flying high above the canyon for 40 minutes. Dive into the heart of th...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Optional Experiences Enjoy a memorable 25-30 minute helicopter experience over the southern and northern rims of the Grand Canyon, USA
Grand Canyon by Helicopter: South to North Rim

Get ready for a Grand Canyon adventure that'll leave you speechless! Take off on a helicopter ride that covers both the southern and northern rims ...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Day 6

Flagstaff – Historic Route 66 – Las Vegas

Ready to get your kicks on Route 66? Today is the day to do it. This iconic road is a symbol of the American dream and has been immortalized in books and movies for years. Still to this day, Route 66 represents the ultimate American road trip and you'll get to take an unforgettable journey down a stretch of it, stopping by Seligman and Kingman en route to Vegas, two iconic outposts that offer a real taste of all things Americana, complete with classic motels, kitsch petrol pumps and steaming slices of apple pie. Finally, as if by magic, you'll slowly spot the neon lights of Las Vegas looming in the distance. This entertainment oasis is surrounded by dry desert and has a reputation almost as big as the fortune's many have made (and lost) here.

Sign on Route 66, Flagstaff, USA
Accommodation Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino
Optional Experiences
Las Vegas Sights & Lights

Gear up for an unforgettable night in the "City That Never Sleeps!" Get ready to be dazzled by the electric Fremont Street Experience, cruise past ...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Optional Experiences
High Roller Ferris Wheel

Vegas like you've never seen before – from the top of the High Roller! Bigger than the London Eye and Singapore Flyer, this giant wheel spins you a...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Day 7

Las Vegas Free Time

With a full day in Sin City, it's entirely up to you how to explore the entertainment capital of the world. The casinos, the all you can eat buffets, the glittering rooftop pools, the biggest names in show business - they're all here for the taking. Or if you're up for it, to help tailor your Vegas experience, we've also got a whole suite of enticing Optional Experiences lined up to help you experience a different side of Las Vegas. Head over to Hoover Dam to stand over 200 meters above the Colorado River to admire Lake Mead, it holds back the biggest man-made reservoir in the United States. Perhaps a singalong at ‘Vegas! The Show' if a show is more your style. However you choose to explore, today will be one to remember.

View of Las Vegas, USA
Accommodation Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino
Optional Experiences Skull in Desert, Death Valley, USA
Death Valley Discovery

Dive into the unique landscape of Death Valley for a day of exploration in this land of contrasts. Below sea level, it's a place where drought and ...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Optional Experiences View of Red Rock Canyon, USA
Red Rock Canyon Classic Pink Jeeps Tour

Hop on a thrilling Tour Trekker and discover the untamed beauty just minutes away from the Las Vegas Strip. As you journey through the impressive l...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Optional Experiences Hoover Dam Visitor Centre in Las Vegas, USA
Hoover Dam Visitor Center

Hit the road from Vegas to check out the Hoover Dam, a true giant among modern marvels. First up, catch it from the Mike O'Callaghan–Pat Tillman Me...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Optional Experiences Grand Celebration Helicopter Tour Grand Canyon West, Arizona, USA
Grand Celebration Helicopter Tour

The Grand Celebration Helicopter Tour is one of our most popular tours to Grand Canyon West. Catch unbeatable views of Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, ancie...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Optional Experiences Las Vegas Foodie Tour Expert Guides Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
Las Vegas Foodie Tour

Step off the beaten Vegas track and into the heart of the action where downtown's buzzing revival reveals the city's new side. Far from the clang o...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Optional Experiences Experience VEGAS! the only show in Vegas, about Vegas, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
Vegas! The Show

Dive into "VEGAS! The Show," the ultimate performance that celebrates the heart and soul of Las Vegas. This journey through time brings the city's ...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Day 8

Las Vegas – Selma

Leaving Las Vegas rich in memories, you'll head for the Mojave Desert this morning. As the driest desert in the United States you'd expect nothing more than barren landscape as you drive through, so prepare to be surprised as you pass lots of rare and beautiful flowers and wildlife. Admiring the dramatic Sierra Nevada mountain range and continuing into the San Joaquin Valley, you'll finish up today in the agricultural hub of Selma, CA. Often referred to as the "Raisin Capital of the World" due to its significant role in the raisin industry, Selma was founded in 1880 initially as a railroad town. You'll enjoy dinner on your own tonight where you'll certainly be chatting about what to expect from your exciting visit to Yosemite National Park tomorrow.

Joshua Tree in Las Vegas, USA
Accommodation Holiday Inn Selma-Swancourt Hotel

Day 9

Selma - Yosemite National Park - Modesto

Awe-inspiring nature at its finest, Yosemite will challenge all other national parks you've previously visited to stake its claim as the most beautiful. The third oldest national park in the United States and a UNESCO World Heritage site, this patch of heaven is all emerald green valleys, cascading waterfalls, giant sequoia trees, and pine scented forests, framed by the iconic Half Dome and the striking peak of El Capitan. Take your time soaking it all in and exploring the various trails and picnic areas your way before heading on to Modesto, one of the greatest agricultural areas of the nation.

View of Yosemite National Park, Las Vegas, USA
Accommodation Doubletree by Hilton Hotel Modesto

Day 10

Modesto – San Francisco

Feeling the ocean breeze moving ever closer you'll head back to the California coast today, crossing the Bay Bridge into one of the West Coast's best loved cities, San Francisco. A historical hub for progressive thinkers and creatives, San Fran's famously hilly landscape will instantly win you over as you spot the old-fashioned cable cars slowly rising and falling on the horizon. Explore the ‘City by the Bay' on a sightseeing tour that visits Fisherman's Wharf, the Palace of Fine Arts, the lush Presidio area and Italian influenced North Beach. This evening you could opt to join our Chinatown walking tour, exploring the markets, dim sum joints and herb shops of America's oldest Chinatown before dining family style at a decadent Chinese feast.

View of The Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, USA
Accommodation Parc 55 San Francisco Hilton
Optional Experiences Enjoy a guided Chinatown Walking Tour, Chinese Dinner and City Illuminations Tour in San Francisco, USA
San Francisco by Night and Chinatown Guided Walk

Explore the vibrant heart of San Francisco's historic Chinese community, visiting bustling markets, traditional herb shops and a fortune cookie fac...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Day 11

San Francisco Free Time

You'll head off this morning to a San Fran institution, Boudin Bakery, who have been producing their very special ‘Mother Dough' since 1849. With breakfast sorted, the rest of the day is then free for you to explore your way. If it's city icons you're after, why not join your fellow travelers for a walk along the Golden Gate Bridge, followed by a visit to the pretty seaside community of Sausalito. Alternatively, take a cruise around the bay, taking in Alcatraz Island en route, or venture out to Muir Woods to admire the towering, ancient redwood trees that grow here. However you choose to explore, you'll be sure to make the last day of your USA value tour an extra special one.

Muir woods in San Francisco, USA
Accommodation Parc 55 San Francisco Hilton
Included Meals Iconic Breakfast
Optional Experiences Muir woods in San Francisco, USA
Muir Woods Tour of California Coastal Redwoods

Cross the iconic Golden Gate Bridge to discover a secluded canyon cradling ancient coastal redwoods at Muir Woods National Monument. Stroll among a...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Optional Experiences Alcatraz Island in San Francisco, USA
San Francisco Bay Cruise

Embark on a captivating 60-minute Bay Cruise Adventure, offering unparalleled photo ops from every angle. Glide past the iconic Pier 39 sea lions a...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Optional Experiences
Golden Gate Bridge Walk and Sausalito

Stroll the 1.7-mile expanse of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, marveling at the engineering feats that brought this San Francisco symbol to life. Le...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Optional Experiences
Golden Gate Bridge Bike Tour

Ride with our guides along San Francisco's stunning waterfront, across the Golden Gate Bridge and into Sausalito, and take the ferry back. This beg...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Optional Experiences Dinner Fishermans Wharf Four Course Dinner San Francisco, California,USA
Dinner on Fisherman's Wharf

In 1978, Italian immigrant Louis introduced his iconic establishment, Swiss Louis, on Pier 39 near Fisherman’s Wharf, enchanting diners with a cozy...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Optional Experiences California Sunset Cruise, San Francisco, California, USA
California Sunset Cruise

You'll cruise slowly past Alcatraz, Angel Island and the Marin Headlands, then head directly for the bridge as the sun dips into the Pacific. On th...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Day 12

Depart San Francisco

With fond memories of sunny Los Angeles, fun loving Vegas and peaceful Yosemite still fresh in your mind, today your adventure through the Golden West will come to an end. You've tasted, trekked and maybe even taken a helicopter ride over these lands, and we hope you've made a bunch of incredible memories along the way. Not ready to go home just yet? Why not extend your stay in San Francisco a little longer, and pay those cheeky Sea Lions down at Fisherman's Wharf an overdue visit. Departure will be at leisure.

Sea Lion in San Francisco, USA

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Special Departure

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About this trip

An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
Many meals included
Audio Headsets provided throughout your holiday to enhance your included sightseeing experiences
Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries
City orientation tours
Extensive variety of Choice Experiences
On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.

Optional Experiences

Sign up on tour for additional experiences that have been curated by your Travel Director from their own in-depth local knowledge.

Optional Experience
Easy on the Asphalt (90 minutes) See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Canyons and Cowboys

Grab your cowboy hat and get ready for a true Wild West adventure with Red Rock Western Guide's scenic tour. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking b...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Fly Over the Grand Canyon and Kaibab Plateau

Buckle up for a sky-high adventure over the Grand Canyon's South Rim, where every view is a jaw-dropper. Feel the buzz as you glide over the vast K...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Grand Canyon Ecostar Helicopter Ride

Take off on Papillon’s longest Grand Canyon helicopter tour that'll have you flying high above the canyon for 40 minutes. Dive into the heart of th...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Grand Canyon by Helicopter: South to North Rim

Get ready for a Grand Canyon adventure that'll leave you speechless! Take off on a helicopter ride that covers both the southern and northern rims ...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Las Vegas Sights & Lights

Gear up for an unforgettable night in the "City That Never Sleeps!" Get ready to be dazzled by the electric Fremont Street Experience, cruise past ...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
High Roller Ferris Wheel

Vegas like you've never seen before – from the top of the High Roller! Bigger than the London Eye and Singapore Flyer, this giant wheel spins you a...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Death Valley Discovery

Dive into the unique landscape of Death Valley for a day of exploration in this land of contrasts. Below sea level, it's a place where drought and ...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Red Rock Canyon Classic Pink Jeeps Tour

Hop on a thrilling Tour Trekker and discover the untamed beauty just minutes away from the Las Vegas Strip. As you journey through the impressive l...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Hoover Dam Visitor Center

Hit the road from Vegas to check out the Hoover Dam, a true giant among modern marvels. First up, catch it from the Mike O'Callaghan–Pat Tillman Me...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Grand Celebration Helicopter Tour

The Grand Celebration Helicopter Tour is one of our most popular tours to Grand Canyon West. Catch unbeatable views of Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, ancie...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Las Vegas Foodie Tour

Step off the beaten Vegas track and into the heart of the action where downtown's buzzing revival reveals the city's new side. Far from the clang o...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Vegas! The Show

Dive into "VEGAS! The Show," the ultimate performance that celebrates the heart and soul of Las Vegas. This journey through time brings the city's ...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
San Francisco by Night and Chinatown Guided Walk

Explore the vibrant heart of San Francisco's historic Chinese community, visiting bustling markets, traditional herb shops and a fortune cookie fac...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Muir Woods Tour of California Coastal Redwoods

Cross the iconic Golden Gate Bridge to discover a secluded canyon cradling ancient coastal redwoods at Muir Woods National Monument. Stroll among a...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
San Francisco Bay Cruise

Embark on a captivating 60-minute Bay Cruise Adventure, offering unparalleled photo ops from every angle. Glide past the iconic Pier 39 sea lions a...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Golden Gate Bridge Walk and Sausalito

Stroll the 1.7-mile expanse of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, marveling at the engineering feats that brought this San Francisco symbol to life. Le...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Golden Gate Bridge Bike Tour

Ride with our guides along San Francisco's stunning waterfront, across the Golden Gate Bridge and into Sausalito, and take the ferry back. This beg...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Dinner on Fisherman's Wharf

In 1978, Italian immigrant Louis introduced his iconic establishment, Swiss Louis, on Pier 39 near Fisherman’s Wharf, enchanting diners with a cozy...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
California Sunset Cruise

You'll cruise slowly past Alcatraz, Angel Island and the Marin Headlands, then head directly for the bridge as the sun dips into the Pacific. On th...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

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USA

  • Official Languages across USA: English the official language of USA.
  • Currency used in USA: The currency of USA is the American Dollar ($).
  • Capital:: The capital of USA is Washington, DC.
  • Time Zone(s) in USA: Several time zones are used across different regions of the USAs to establish standard time: Eastern Standard Time (EST), Central Standard Time (CST), Mountain Standard Time (MST), Pacific Standard Time (PST), Alaska Standard Time (AKST), Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time (HST). It's important to note that some regions within each time zone may observe daylight saving time, which would result in a one-hour shift during the daylight saving time period.

The climate and weather in the United States vary greatly due to its large size and diverse geography. The country experiences a wide range of climate types, including temperate, Mediterranean, subtropical, arid, and alpine climates. In general, the eastern and central parts of the United States have a humid continental climate, characterized by hot and humid summers, and cold winters. The western coastal regions, such as California and the Pacific Northwest, have a more Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. The southern states have a subtropical climate, with hot and humid summers and mild winters. The southwestern and western regions, including states like Arizona and Nevada, have a desert or arid climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild winters. The northernmost parts of the country, particularly Alaska, have a subarctic and alpine climate, with extremely cold winters and cool summers.

On-Tour Luggage & Carry-On Bag Size Limits

Luggage: Each guest traveling may bring one suitcase no larger than 30” x 18” x 10" and weighing no more than 50 lb

Carry-On Bag: *Restricted to one piece per person, not to exceed 12” x 11” x 6”

  • *Please note: A "carry-on bag" on a tour coach is not the same as a "carry-on" for a flight. Because our coaches have large windows to enjoy the view, there is minimal space to store large items securely overhead or under the seats. A "carry-on bag" may be a soft-sided daypack, purse, backpack, tote bag, or the like. Because we value our guests' safety, small rolling suitcases or bags with telescopic handles are not permitted. In order to guarantee a smooth trip, guests are not permitted to store an additional "carry-on" bag beneath the coach with the luggage. 

So your driver and any hotel porters can safely lift and transport your suitcase throughout your vacation, we strongly recommend that you test the weight of your baggage prior to travel. You should be able to lift and comfortably transport it for short distances. 

Baggage allowances vary from airline to airline, and you should check with your chosen carrier for details prior to travel.

Packing Tips for Your Tour

Packing for a guided tour will vary depending on the duration of the trip, the time of year, and the activities planned. Here is a general packing list to help you get started:

Clothing:

  • Comfortable walking shoes: Comfortable walking shoes. North and Central America, along with Canada, offer a vast range of terrains. To make the most of your trip, it is vital to pack shoes that can cater to all your activities, from strolling on Hawaii's beaches to dining at a sophisticated restaurant in Toronto.
  • Lightweight, breathable clothing: Pack clothes suitable for the season. Bring a mix of short-sleeved tops, lightweight pants or skirts, and a few long-sleeved options for cooler evenings for the summer months, and long-sleeved and heavier layers for early Spring, Fall, and Winter.
  • Layers: From the snowy peaks of the Rockies to the steamy jungles of Costa Rica, you’ll encounter a myriad of climates. To ensure you're ready for any situation, it's wise to pack adaptable, layered clothing. We advise you to bring a light jacket or sweater and a scarf for layering, especially in Spring or Fall. 
  • Modest attire: In some religious sites, modest clothing is required, so we suggest carrying a shawl or scarf to cover your shoulders or legs when necessary.
  • Nice evening wear: You may wish to wear a dressier outfit if you plan on dining in an elegant restaurant, for example. Smart-casual clothes are usually acceptable for all included daytime and evening activities throughout your tour.
  • Rain Gear: Depending on the season and the countries you're visiting, it's a good idea to pack a compact rain jacket or umbrella.

Sun Protection:

  • Hat, sunglasses, UV-protective clothing.
  • Sunscreen with high SPF. If you're visiting any coastal areas, bring reef-safe sunscreen formulated without harmful chemicals known to be damaging to coral reefs and marine life. Traditional sunscreens often contain ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which have been found to contribute to coral bleaching and negatively impact marine ecosystems. Look for sunscreens with certifications such as "Reef Safe," "Coral Safe," or "Ocean-Friendly" to ensure they are environmentally friendly.

Medications and First Aid:

  • Any prescription medications you need. (See more below under Health & Wellness)
  • Basic first aid kit with adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, etc.

Toiletries:

  • Travel-sized toiletries, including shampoo, conditioner, soap, and toothpaste.
  • Travel towel (quick-drying and compact).
  • Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
  • A washcloth and carry bag (often not available in hotels abroad).

Electronics:

  • A camera: You’re traveling to see extraordinary scenery and sites. So that you don't miss a single moment, bring a trustworthy camera. Check out our travel photography tips for capturing the best photos of your trips. If you feel comfortable, you can also try the camera on your phone. However, if you want to zoom in or capture moving objects, a camera might be your best bet.
  • Mobile phone.
  • Chargers for each electronic you bring.
  • Portable power bank for charging devices on the go.
  • Small travel hair dryer

Miscellaneous:

  • A travel-friendly daypack or bag to carry your essentials during excursions.
  • Insect repellent.
  • Reusable water bottle. At GET, we’re all about caring for our planet, and with that in mind, we always recommend that you pack a reusable water bottle for your trip. Bringing your own reusable water bottle or asking for tap water at restaurants means you can make a difference by reducing your vacation plastic waste.
  • A small travel alarm.
  • A travel iron if you like your clothes to be pressed.
  • A travel pillow.

Optional:

  • Scarf or shawl for visiting religious sites or to cover up in conservative areas.
  • Light sleepwear.
  • A new, blank journal to document your trip. Don't know your travel journal style? Find out here!
  • Ziplock bags (storing snacks, toiletries, and keeping things organized).

Remember to pack light and versatile items that can be mixed and matched for different outfits. Laundry facilities are often available, or you can have your clothes laundered at hotels during your trip. It's also a good idea to pack a small bag or backpack to bring on the coach for day trips and excursions, leaving your larger luggage at the hotel.

Electricity

As an American traveler going on a guided tour within the USA, there are a few essential things to know about electricity and adaptors to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. Since you are traveling within the USA, you won't need to worry about voltage and plug type differences. Just pack your electronic devices as you would for any domestic trip, and you'll be all set to enjoy your guided tour in the United States!

  • Voltage and Plug Type: As an American traveler, you won't need a voltage converter or plug adapter for your electronic devices within the country.
  • Compatibility: Since you are traveling within the USA, your electronic devices, such as smartphones, laptops, and camera chargers, should be compatible with the standard voltage and plug type used in the country. You can use your regular chargers and power cords without any issues.
  • Hotels and Accommodations: Most hotels and accommodations in the USA provide electrical outlets compatible with American plugs. You won't need to worry about adaptors or converters within the country.
  • Airports and Public Places: Airports, train stations, and other public places in the USA will have outlets that match the American standard, so you can quickly charge your devices while on the go.

Hair Dryers in Your Hotel

Hair dryers are standard accessories in hotels. Since you don't have to worry about converting the voltage, you can bring a travel dryer or pack one from home. If you need a hair dryer during your trip but can't find one in your hotel room, you can inquire with the hotel staff. Many hotels will be able to provide a hair dryer upon request, either at the front desk or through housekeeping.

Air Conditioning

Air conditioning is commonly available in most hotels, restaurants, and public spaces in the USA, especially in major cities and tourist areas.

However, it's important to note that not all accommodations or historic buildings may have air conditioning, particularly in more traditional or rural settings. 

Traveling by coach

Our modern air-conditioned coaches have been selected with your comfort in mind. Your Travel Director will familiarize you with all the onboard features, including a washroom fitted for your convenience and comfort. Regular stops are made to stretch your legs, take refreshments, fill up your water bottles, and use the facilities.

Airport transfers

Airport transfers are not included or available on tours that operate in the United States and Canada. Guests will be provided local transfer options after booking so they can make their travel arrangements from the airport to the hotel and vice versa. Learn more about Airport Transfers here.

To enable you to personalize your tour experience, you will find a number of Optional Experiences designed to complement the itinerary. These are designed to offer a deeper insight into the culture and character of the areas to be visited and provide some wonderful highlights to your travels. The optional program is designed to let you experience more of what interests you and to get the most from your vacation without replacing or overlapping with anything included in an itinerary.

The majority of Optional Experiences will be offered to you by your Travel Director at the beginning of your trip. Some may be subject to change, depending on the time you are traveling or local circumstances, including weather and days of the week. Your Travel Director will provide further information.

Exact payment options will be advised locally by your Travel Director/Local Representative for each Optional Experience, but in many cases, cash, Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are all accepted.

It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses while traveling.

In order to ensure a healthy and enjoyable trip, we strongly suggest that you pack a plentiful supply of any medication you may need while on vacation. Here’s what you need to know about traveling with medications.

Prior to traveling, please notify GET of any disability requiring special assistance or any specific dietary needs that you may have, and we will strive to accommodate these.

It's essential to ensure that your routine vaccinations are up-to-date before traveling to any destination. Routine vaccinations may include COVID, measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, and influenza.

When traveling with GET, baggage handling at hotels, service charges, and tips for hotel wait staff (for included meals) will all be taken care of by your Travel Director. There are, however, a few instances where individual tipping is welcome.

Local Specialists

It is customary to show appreciation for the insights, stories, and know-how shared with you by the Local Specialists, and we suggest a gratuity of $1.00-$2.00 USD per person/half day.

Your Coach Driver and Travel Director

The trip cost does not include gratuities for your Travel Director and Driver. At the end of your trip, you may express appreciation to your Travel Director and Driver for their excellent service and the personal attention you received. Gratuities are given at the discretion of each guest, and a suggested amount per person/day is listed in your travel documents.

Hotel services

It is customary to tip hotel staff for room service delivery if the charge has not already been added to the bill. Where ice machines are not available, and you receive ice from the bar, a small tip to the bartender is always appreciated.

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Dante Ramos
Review date: Tuesday, June 25, 2024
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My Best Vacation Yet and this was Number Three
Response from Grand European Travel:
It doesn't get any better than that! Thank you for your repeat business and we're looking forward to helping you plan vacation number 4!
Wednesday, June 26, 2024
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