We are here to make your decision making process as easy as possible!
We have compiled the most frequently asked questions from our passengers and listed them here for your convenience. If you don't see the answer you're looking for, call (800) 334–2630 and speak to one of our knowledgeable reservation coordinators who will be happy to assist you.
Is a Passport required for this tour? Yes, Each person – regardless of age – must carry a passport that is valid for six months after the scheduled return date, March 6, 2016. To obtain a Passport, contact your local clerk of court for an application. Apply early as it may take 6-8 weeks to process an application. Templeton Tours will handle the Visa arrangements for all confirmed passengers.
Is there a travel warning for travel to Turkey? At the time of printing, the United States Department of State has not issued a travel warning for travel within Turkey. For up-to-date information on this travel warning go to http://www.travel.state.gov/travel
Are there restrictions on children taking this tour? No, however due to the amount of walking and the in-depth historical lectures given at the sites, we do not recommend this tour for children under 12 years of age.
May I purchase cancellation insurance? Yes, we strongly encourage trip insurance. Trip insurance is offered through Travel Guard International (http://www.travelguard.com). The premium is based on your age and the cost of the tour. You will receive an application for trip insurance in your confirmation packet. Be sure to mention our agency #61636 when calling or registering online.
What kind of weather can I expect? High temperatures will range from 75 degrees in Rome to 90 degrees in Crete during the cruise.
What type of clothing will I need to take? This tour is informal so there are only a couple of events that would require semi-formal. Thus, casual clothes are the order of the day - with modesty for both men and women. Some sites on our itinerary will not allow you to wear shorts, sleeveless tops, etc. Your tour guide will let you know if shorts or sleeveless tops are not appropriate. You should bring things you can coordinate and accessorize. It gets quite warm and sunny around the Mediterranean so you should pack a hat or visor.
What is the difference between Interior and Oceanview cabins? Interior cabins do not have any type of window (Category L). Oceanview cabins have square windows (Category H). Staterooms in categories D1, D2, JS & GS have private balconies.
Medications? Please carry your required medication in the original container in your pocket or purse so that it will be available when needed. Checked luggage may not be accessible at all times. If you're using any prescription drugs, vitamins or other medication on a regular basis, you should bring an adequate supply with you since these may not be readily available either aboard ship or in our ports of call.
What kind of food can I expect off the ship? Typical meals include pasta, fish, beef, chicken, and some lamb, along with white rice, fresh vegetables, and fruits. Some lunches will be at restaurants en route while sightseeing.
Is there a lot of walking involved? Yes, there is a lot of walking on this tour. Many sites are archaeological sites that are hundreds – some thousands – of years old, so the terrain at these sites is often uneven and rocky. Some sites also have steps and others have steep inclines that need to be navigated. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Guests should be able to walk a total of 3 miles over flat and uneven terrain and able to walk up 4 flights of stairs.
Are the tour buses equipped with bathrooms? Most tour buses are not equipped with bathrooms. However, the tour guides allow extra time at each site for you to use the facilities.
What about handicap accessibility? Although the Rhapsody of the Seas is a wheelchair accessible ship, many of the sites to be visited during the planned shore excursions are not accessible. We do not recommend this tour for anyone requiring a wheelchair or with mobility issues due to the difficult terrain at the sites we will be visiting.
Does the ship offer Internet Service? Yes, the Rhapsody of the Seas offers internet service for a fee.
Will I need an electrical adapter? There is a 110volt outlet in each cabin on the ship. You will need an adapter kit that converts 220 volts to 110 volts in the hotels. These adapters can be purchased at an electronics store (i.e. Radio Shack). You can see an example of the adapter needed by clicking on http://users.telenet.be/worldstandards/electricity.htm#plugs_c.
Will I need any vaccinations? At the time of printing, no vaccinations are required for visiting the countries on this tour. We will update this information if this requirement changes.
May I earn frequent flyer credit? If you have a frequent flyer account you may earn miles for flights.
How much money should I take? It is a good rule of thumb to only carry as much cash as you can afford to lose. You should take most of your money in travelers’ checks and record the serial numbers, denomination, and the date and location of the issuing bank where you purchased the checks. You should also carry $50-$100 in small bills (1’s and 5’s). Most stores accept major credit cards.
What is the local currency? The currency in Italy and Greece is the Euro, in Turkey it is the Turkish Lira. Most tourist shops are happy to accept US currency. Current exchange rates can be found by going to http://www.xe.com/ucc/.
What is the time difference? The time difference in Italy is 6 hours ahead of the Eastern Time Zone, Greece and Turkey is 7 hours ahead of the EST. For example, when it is 12:00 noon in the eastern United States, it is 7:00pm (same day) in Greece & Turkey.
May I bring my camera with me? This tour is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for most travelers so a still photo camera or a video camera – or both – is a must. If you bring a digital still camera, you will want to bring extra memory cards to hold photos.
Do you know any good books about the Apsotle Paul that you can recommend? Here are some excellent resources if you are interested in reading about the Apostle Paul's journeys: The Titus Diary, The Timothy Diary, The Silas Diary
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