Frequently Asked Questions

Knowing as much as you can beforehand will enable you to enjoy your tour experience to the fullest. We have tried to answer all we can think of but please feel free to email private questions.

When should I make my Reservation for our Tour?

For the best price and choice of dates, we suggest making reservations as soon as you decide on a tour/date.

Are Visas or Inoculations required for U.S. Citizens?

No visas or inoculations (shots) are required for passengers carrying a U.S. passport.

Are Visas or Inoculations required for Non – U.S. Citizens?

Before making a deposit, non-U.S. citizens must ask their embassy or consulate which visas and inoculations they will need for each of the countries they will visit. It is your responsibility to determine which visas or inoculations are required and to obtain them before your departure. Cancellations due to the inability to obtain proper visas or inoculations will be subject to the Image Tours “Cancellations” policy.

Can I use Credit cards for shopping and ATM’s for Cash?

Always be sure to contact your local bank or credit card bank provider, notify them that you are traveling to Europe so they won’t put a security hold on your card.
 
Contact them to find out what fees are involved when using an International ATM or CC.   ATM’s (Cash Machines) are available all over Europe.  No one uses Travelers cheques and ATM is usually the way to go as it gives you the current time exchange rate for Euro/Pounds vs Dollars.  Exchange Rates vs Fees these are two different things so be sure the bank is clear on both, and what they will be charging you.
 
Be sure that your credit cards all have a CHIP as European cards all have this requirement and some machines will not accept a card without a CHIP.
 
Most stores/cafes/restaurants all take credit cards.  Most prefer Visa over MC or AX and some will not take AX.  Your card is secure in using at all restaurants/cafes/shops because in Europe they do not “take” your card to scan it and then bring it back to you as they do in the states.  They are not allowed to handle your card at all; they bring a mobile card scanner to your table.
 
As we are meeting you at the airport and the driver is already paid for, you won’t need cash the minute you arrive as you would when traveling alone.  Once you are at the apartment in town, there are ATM’s all over you can access for monies.  By getting cash from the ATM vs the bank, generally, fees and transaction fees are cheaper at point of cash distribution.  American banks, airport banks all charge extra so be aware.

Do the Hotel Rooms have Private Bathrooms?

We strive to book all private bathrooms with shower and/or bathtub, toilet and sink.  We indicate which lodgings could have shared bath before it is booked. (i.e. Venice has smaller lodgings and could have a shared bath in some cases)

What is the difference between a Double and a Twin Room?

A ‘double’ room consists of one double bed. The European ‘twin’ room consists of two twin beds made up separately, placed side by side, and sharing the same headboard. In some hotels it may not be possible to separate these twin beds. Imagine Travel Tours can request ‘twin’ or ‘double’ accommodations, but some hotels do not offer the choice or guests may not always receive their preferred choice due to limited selections.  We always try to have a Double/Queen/King in all rooms when possible.  Many European lodgings do not have Kings.

Are Single Rooms offered?

Single rooms are on request and if a single room is confirmed, a single supplement will apply. The applicable single supplement for each tour may vary depending on locations. Single rooms are often much smaller.

How are Rooms Assigned?

Room assignments are up to the group and not Imagine Travel Tours. The location, view, and size of the rooms may vary and some rooms are bigger/smaller.  As we tend to reserve private homes not hotels, like most homes, there is a “Master” that is larger/nicer than supplement rooms.  We allow our guests to decide who gets which rooms.  Decisions may or may not happen prior to arrival, and may be decided when you arrive to your locations. Please have a group discussion on how this will be handled prior to arrival.

Do the Hotels have Heating & Air Conditioning?

All of our lodgings are equipped with heating. Due to a milder climate, and very expensive electric, air conditioning is not as widely used in Europe as it is in the U.S.A. Therefore, a number of our lodgings in northern and central Europe do not feature air conditioning. Some will have AC units just for the bedrooms but most will Not have them for common living areas.  Most will have fans provided as well. Again, we strive to find lodging that Does have AC when we can.

What is served for Breakfast?

Breakfasts are commonly served buffet style with a selection of rolls, butter, jam, cheese, cold cuts, coffee, tea, milk and juice. Breakfast buffets usually also include one or more other items, such as cereal, pastries, fruit, yogurt or eggs. Some selections and preparation will reflect the local area.  When we are staying in private homes, Imagine Travel Tours will provide HOT breakfast of eggs, toast, vegetables, fruits, breads, yogurt, tea, milk, juice, coffee.  

May I request Special Diet Meals?

If notified in writing at least 60 days prior to departure, Imagine Travel Tours accepts the following diet requests: 1) diabetic; 2) gluten-free; 3) vegan; 4) vegetarian with dairy and eggs; 5) semi-vegetarian (no pork or red meat); 6) no shellfish/fish; or 7) lactose free. Although we will do everything we can for meals in house, any dietary requirements remain entirely your own responsibility. Please do not give the tour manager a list of items you may or may not eat Unless it is an item you are very allergic to.  Imagine Travel Tours expressly disclaims any responsibility or liability in connection with dietary requirements.  . IF YOU HAVE ALLERGIES- please include this in a medical description prior to arrival.

Gluten Free: this is VERY difficult in most places of Europe. they are only just now recognizing this due to tourism. Italy and France are the land of BREAD and pasta, when we can we do our best to know where there are Gluten free restaurants but it is challenging. Normally a gluten free restaurant means 1-3 items per menu are, and the rest are not. You could be challenged to eat meat/veggies vs pasta in some cases.

Is this a Non-Smoking Tour?

Regardless of the policies within the countries visited, we will adopt a non-smoking policy in all vehicles and during group activities. Although some restaurants in Europe do not designate non-smoking sections, tour participants are also expected to refrain from smoking during breakfasts and group dinners. We always request non-smoking rooms for all participants where possible. In fact, many hotels have converted to only non-smoking rooms and charge a substantial penalty to guests who smoke in a non-smoking room. Imagine Travel Tours expressly disclaims any responsibility or liability in connection with smoking or non-smoking requirements.  For smokers, outdoor only in lodging and restaurants is standard.  This includes E cigarettes. For smokers, outdoor only thruout Europe is standard.

Do I need to bring Formal Attire?

Comfort is the priority on our tours. There are no occasions that require formal attire, but some clients like to bring one casually elegant outfit to wear for special occasion dinners.

How often will I need to carry my own Luggage?

At the airports, you will have the use of luggage carts to transport your luggage to the van. You must handle your own luggage throughout the tour.  As these are custom small tours, unlike large 50+ group tours, we do not have porters accompanying our tour.  There might be occasions you will be required to board a train with your luggage so you will need to be able to lift the luggage onto the train and thru the aisles.  Please pack accordingly.  Washer will be available in Tuscany location and even some city tours.

Are Airport Transfers Included?

On arrival and again on the last day of the tour, one scheduled group transfer between the airport and the hotel is available at no additional cost. Transfer times in each direction are set based on the scheduled flight times of passengers.  If you are unable to join the group transfer due to schedules, flight delays or for any other reason, you will need to transfer between the airport and the hotel on your own, and the entire cost of this transfer will be your responsibility. As you consider travel protection plans, check if travel delay coverage is included. Pre- and post-tour extensions do not include transfers.

Where do I Meet the Tour Manager?

For the scheduled group airport transfer, we will be waiting at an assigned Meeting Point inside the arrival airport in Europe. “Arrival Instructions,” including the Meeting Point location and time, are provided with the Trip Documents, which you will receive at least one week prior to the tour. Please review this information and keep this page close at hand on the day of travel.

Will the Tour Manager accompany us throughout the entire tour?

Yes your hosts, Darla and Darren Dressler will accompany you thruout the entire tour excluding free time in day excursions where you may explore on your own while meeting back at a designated time and place with your guides. If you want to tour a city on your own, of course you are welcome to do so and we will designate meeting times/places.

Are Tips for the Tour Manager & Driver included?

The tips for the tour manager and driver are included unlike other tours where you are expected to pay both.

Are Tips for Other Services included?

Tipping is included for all services that are pre-arranged by Imagine Travel Tours, such as hotel staff, restaurant staff and other services that are included in the tour or in the optional excursions. Generally, if anyone who provides a pre-arranged tour service is just doing their job, you need not tip. On the other hand, feel free to tip any personnel who is extra helpful or goes beyond expectations. When you purchase beverages or receive water service with dinner, it is polite to include a tip of at least 50 cents. During independent meals, the general rule at restaurants in Europe and the British Isles is 5% to 10% depending on level of service.

When do I pay for the Optional Excursions?

We will send a detailed “suggested” itinerary of places and things we feel you might not want to miss.  Because this is a totally custom tour, if you want special items added to your tour, please let us know as far in advance so we might accommodate you.  If special items are requested, these will be charged to you at the rate we have been told by the vendor they cost.  I.e. balloon rides, vespa rentals, special tours, etc.

What Time does the tour group usually Depart and Arrive at day trip locations?

This will be totally decided by you and your group.  As much as possible, we are flexible to the groups time frames unless there is scheduled pre booked events such a private cooking classes, trains etc. and check out times for lodging which is generally around 10am. Mornings are usually a later start as most businesses do not open in Europe until 10am, so slow roll morning.  Early birds can go for a hike, enjoy the views, read a book and relax as you will be walking a lot during the day! Most days we leave by 930 earliest.

How much Free Time will I have?

When you make a sightseeing stop, your tour manager will typically indicate points of interest while driving and/or with a walking tour, followed by 45 minutes to 2 hours for independent sightseeing, depending on the location. You may forego a walking tour if you prefer more independent time.  This is Your Tour and we want you to have as much or little free time as you want!  Please tell us what you prefer.

How much Time will I spend on the road in the van?

Our tours are planned so that the average time on the road between stops is MAX 1½ to 2 hours. Destination days from city to city might be 3-4 hours with stops when needed.

How are seats assigned on the Van?

Seating on the van will be totally to the group needs/wants. Out of fairness to all passengers, we do not accept special seating requests for any reason and expect fairness to all in the group. You will decide where you sit.

Is there a Bathroom on the Van?

No, this is a large Van/car and we will need to stop so please give as much notice as possible.  There are bathrooms on the motorway usually or we may need to stop at a local café/gas station.  Europe is quite different than America, there are not a lot of Public Toilets easily accessable in towns.  Usually, a purchase is required or a fee for the public toilets. On the large motorways there are frequent rest stops and we use them before entering cities.  Don’t be alarmed, it may be as simple as buying a coffee to use a facility.

Do the Vans have Heating & Air Conditioning?

Yes

Is it possible to Extend My Stay?

Early departures, later returns, and pre- or post-tour extension accommodations must be requested at the time you make your tour reservation and before your final payment is posted. These requests will be subject to availability of guides and hotel space. We are happy to discuss and give a separate individual tour quote to you for any extra time or travel you might want to have.   Ask your guide.

Will any credit be available for Unused Tour Nights?

Tour prices are based on full group utilization of the lodging rooms and services. No credit or refund will apply for unused tour nights or services. You may leave the tour at any place on the itinerary after communicating your plans to the tour manager.

What if I need to Return Home Early?

Air tickets are subject to change fees and you may need to purchase a one-way air ticket if you need to change your return date or location. If you must return early for a medical reason, obtain a statement from the attending physician. If you have purchased a travel protection plan, this documentation will be required to make a claim and may help reduce airline change fees.  No refund will be able to be made to you from Imagine Travel Tours so please refer to your Travel Insurance purchased rules and refunds.

How can I use my Cell Phone during the tour?

Contact your cell phone provider about short term international data and calling plans. If you have a smartphone, WhatsApp is a cost-free way to communicate with other smartphones. If you will use your phone for photos, consider increasing your memory and taking a USB battery pack.  Facetime and messenger are free on your phone and when you are in the lodgings, we will have wifi that will allow you to call for free, email, facetime, all for free.  When you are in the car and in daytrips, be sure to NOT use your phone for facebook, sending photos to instagram, UNLESS you are at a restaurant that has free wifi and you have logged on to their password.  There are several in each town so usually this is possible.  Your guides will have two phones with local and international access for emergencies.

BE SURE to purchase or be prepared to purchase when you arrive, Italian adaptors for all your electronic devices: phone, computer, hair items, etc.  Usually they are around 3-5 euros a piece in Italy.  You can usually purchase a Universal adaptor in US and are around $20.

If you are going to other countries after Italy this would be a good purchase. 

What happens if I Lose an Article?

Neither Imagine Travel Tours nor any company contracted through Imagine Travel Tours shall be responsible for articles lost, stolen, left behind, confiscated or damaged. Such articles are rarely retrieved. We recommend you check to ensure you have all your possessions each time you leave a motor coach, hotel, restaurant, shop, and on all other occasions throughout your tour.  If you leave an item on the van, in the lodgings and after you leave we find your item (on average $75 per item) Imagine Travel Tours will attempt to ship the item, with all retrieval and shipping costs being the responsibility of the owner.

What is the Weather like in Europe?

The weather in Europe, like that in most places, is unpredictable. While planning your wardrobe, imagine that you are planning a trip through the U.S.A. Season for season, the climate of Italy is a lot like California of cool mornings and nights with warm afternoons, so layers are always best.   Even in the summer, bring that warm sweater or light jacket. Conversely, during fall and winter, you may experience some warmer temperatures. Enjoying the sights, sounds and smells of Europe is in no way bound by seasons or the weather.

Physical Condition Guidelines

Tour Pace and Walking Requirements:

The pace of the tours featured in this brochure is considered ‘ACTIVE’. Due to limited access for motor coaches to enter town centers, a fair amount of walking, commonly three to four miles per day, is required to take in the old world charm and sights. Consequently, these tours are a good fit for persons who can comfortably walk a mile in less than 30 minutes without shortness of breath or other physical discomfort.  We will go as slow as needed and stop for wine and gelato as much you require to retain your stamina.  We try to drop you at front entrances as much as we can to limit the walking.

What if I am unable to keep up during the Tour?

If you are unable to keep up with the group, we will do all we can to accommodate you.  Helping you to a cute café, bringing the car as close as possible.  Word of caution is most streets in the small cities of Tuscany are still the old world cobblestones and can be very hard on ankles.  Comfort low heeled shoes are a must!  Rubber soles are better than leather.  When you can’t go on, tell us BEFORE.  One of us will stay with you while the other takes the tour on.

Oxygen/ Medical/ Electronic Devices:

CPAP and other medical devices must fit within the “Baggage Allowances” for the tour. Under no circumstance does Imagine Travel Tours, the motor coach company, the tour manager, the hotels or any other service provider accept any responsibility or liability in connection with medical conditions, medical devices or any electronic devices.  Please ensure you have whatever medical items you need to ensure your safety and health and well being when traveling.

If you are allergic to anything such as bees, and require medical assistance please be sure to bring these “in case of” as European small villages may or may not have the medical items you require.

Prescription drugs: please be sure to have a FULL monthly supply of any medical needs you have, as European pharmacy tend to have very different medicines, Milligram amounts and in some cases, do not have them at all.  Anything you make take daily, weekly or “in case of” such as gout, we recommend you fill and bring with you.

European pharmacies are great for homeopathic medicines, oils, etc but may or may not have a prescription or even Tylenol type drug, and you will have to make substitutions.

Car Sickness: 

If you know you are subject to car sickness, please ensure you have purchased and take Dramamine or whatever source of cure you might know works for you. Again, Europe may or may not have items that help the way you are familiar with.  We will be in a large Van with large windows driving on some country roads that can be curvy, if you are subject to car sickness we want to ensure you are not ill.  Ginger is widely available for ginger tea and ginger treats are always good for this as well.  Essential oils are readily available here, and no need to bring with you.  Darla specializes in essential oil remedies! And homeopathic/food cures.  Good news, if you do not have what you require medical drugs are much much cheaper in Europe if you go with local brands.  American brands are expensive for all items including personal care.  Natural methods are best and licorice/ginger do wonders.

Personal Care:

Personal care is easily taken care of once you arrive at local grocers or pharmacies if you prefer to not pack liquids.  However, American brands might not be available and substitutions will be necessary but the Italians have no shortage of all items you need for personal grooming.  If you have a Favorite, please be sure to bring it.  Anything you might have forgotten or just don’t want to bring, and are flexible on brands, you can simply buy on arrival.

Do your tours include flights?
No. All clients must arrange their own air travel to and from the location of the tour.

What is included in the price of your tours?
Virtually everything (accommodation, site visits, cultural events, guiding, and most meals) is included, but the exact details vary from tour to tour. Please refer to the “Inclusions” tab on the page for each individual tour.

Do your tours allow for free time?
Absolutely!  We understand that many people want ample time to explore and wander on their own, independent of the rest of the group. They can explore elements of art, architecture, gastronomy, or culture either with a guide or by themselves. Or they can simply head off on their own and do whatever strikes their fancy. It’s completely up to you. Have a stroll, enjoy the scenery, go shopping, take a nap, meet some locals, or sit in a beautiful cafe and watch the world go by. These afternoons are for you to enjoy in whatever way you choose.

In addition, every tour includes at least one independent lunch and dinner for guests to enjoy on their own. You can also opt out of other group meals if you prefer to venture out on your own.

What if I want even more free time?
You can have it whenever you like. None of our scheduled visits or events is mandatory so you can participate (or not participate) however you see fit. Feel free to leave the group and re-join it whenever is convenient for you.

I’ve never thought of myself as a “Group Tour” person. Am I going to be herded on and off a bus? Am I going to be embarrassed or look like a cliche?
No. When we say that we’re radically reinventing group travel, we’re not kidding. At ITT, we believe in traveling authentically, and that can’t happen when guests are constantly shuttled from place to place while checking “must-sees” off a list. We have a strict no-flag, no-megaphone policy and we’ll never wave umbrellas or flags to get your attention in the middle of the Louvre. We promise.

ITT was founded to offer our clients a new level of personalization and customization on every tour. That question on the Traveler Information Form that asks for your special interests?  We encourage you to name them! The more information you give us, the better.  It’s important to us that guests know that this is THEIR experience and that customizing each journey is one of our top priorities.

What if I want to extend my vacation by arriving early or staying late?
Great! Many of our clients stay in Europe for a week or two (or more) beyond their time with us. Once confirmed, you will have a detailed itinerary so that you can plan when to show up for your tour and what to do before or after.

I’d like to tour somewhere special in Europe with my friends. Can we hire you to plan our itinerary?
Sorry, we only design itineraries for which we do the guiding. If you and your friends would like us to accompany you, we’d love to see you on a Custom Tour! 

How much do your Custom Tours cost?
There are far too many variables here to give an accurate answer. Every Custom Tour is unique and the price depends on multiple factors: your destination(s), the length of your stay, the number of participants, the sites you want to visit, accommodation, restaurants, etc. Every Custom Tour starts with a conversation about your vision and how ITT can turn it into reality. Get in touch with us so that we can chat in person or by phone.

I’m coming on your tour by myself. Will I be the only solo traveler? Will I feel awkward or weird?
Not at all! Typically, about a third of our clients are solo travelers, so don’t worry about being a lone ranger. From the start of the welcome reception on the first night, you’ll be with a group of friendly, fun, and like-minded people. You’ll feel right at home and thoroughly enjoy yourself.

Do your tours have a dress code?
No. Many clients prefer to dress up for dinner every night, but this is not required and “smart casual” is fine for most of our restaurants. There are sometimes one or two venues (especially for welcome or closing receptions) that require a slightly fancier dress code, but all of this will be specified in your welcome documentation. While touring during the day, casual clothes (comfortable layers and walking-friendly shoes) are the norm.

What is your tipping policy?
Every ITT tour includes all gratuities. We give all hotel and restaurant staff generous tips on your behalf, so there is never a need for you to provide extra. In addition, we compensate our employees (Tour Managers, drivers, and local guides, where necessary) very well so that they provide you with top-tier service. Tipping them is never expected.

Does ITT Touring arrange insurance?
No. Private holiday insurance is required to participate on our tours, and clients must arrange this for themselves.

I’m a vegetarian. Can you accommodate me?
Of course! All of the restaurants on our tours can provide wonderful vegetarian meals. Dietary requirements are sent to the restaurants far in advance, and the Tour Manager will make sure that all your requirements are met at each venue.

 

How do I view the tours?
You can find all the tours anytime under the “Tours” tab at the top of the page in the header menu.

How do I book a tour?
To book a tour, please us the contact form.   You will receive an email when your form has been successfully received. and we will be in contact to help you plan your trip!

When will I hear back from ITT Touring about availability for the tour?
We will contact you within 24-48 hours after your submission.

What do I do if I want to cancel my tour?
Please refer to the “Our Policies” tab for all cancellation policies. Once you receive confirmation for a trip, there will be no refunds or exchanges unless you directly contact ITT via email ([email protected] or [email protected]).

INTRODUCTION 

Welcome to Imaginetraveltours.com, the website for Imagine Travel Tours, LLC (“ITT,” “Company,” “we,” or “us”).  This page explains the Terms of Use for our online and/or mobile services and website (collectively, the “Online Services”). We look forward to guiding and serving you on your next tour. This page provides you with the details of the terms and conditions of our tours.  All tour participants and other users agree to be bound by the policies outlined below.

  1. OUR COMMITMENT TO OUR GUESTS

  2. GUEST ELIGIBILITY

  3. TRANSPORTATION

  4. RESERVATIONS AND BOOKING INSTRUCTIONS

  5. CONTRACT

  6. INSURANCE

  7. PRICING, DEPOSIT, AND PAYMENT POLICIES

  8. CANCELLATION POLICY

  9. CHANGES

  10. TRAVEL DOCUMENTS

  11. PASSPORT INFORMATION

  12. CHILDREN/MINORS

  13. TIPS

  14. RESPONSIBILITY

  15. PHOTOGRAPHY PERMISSION

  16. COPYRIGHT

  17. PRIVACY POLICY

OUR COMMITMENT TO YOU

We are strongly committed to the satisfaction of all tour participants. We strive to provide full and accurate information about our tours and itineraries and to promptly communicate any changes should they occur.

GUEST ELIGIBILITY

Our tours are active.  Walking, climbing stairs, and standing for periods are basic components of every tour.  Because we believe the best way to get to know the character (and truly experience a place) is to walk, we do so whenever possible.  Due to efficiency, we try to limit single treks to 20 minutes or less, but there are likely to be several per day. Walking often occurs on streets that are steep, cobbled, unevenly paved (or not paved at all), or across varied terrain that may be slippery, muddy, or rocky.  Some of our behind-the-scenes opportunities require guests to climb over architectural ruins or navigate narrow passageways. None of our activities should present problems for anyone of normal fitness but they are not suitable for those who are inactive, slow, need support, or have little stamina.  You must be in good health and have an appropriate level of strength and fitness that would not negatively affect the experience of other tour participant, either by slowing them down or requiring a disproportionate level of attention from your guides or tour manager. If it becomes apparent that you are not able to maintain the pace of the tour, you may be asked to withdraw from specific visits or from he tour altogether. This would be at your own expense.

All tour participants are required to obtain any required vaccinations and to provide for their own health care (if required) during touring and travel.  All such arrangements are the responsibility of the guest. If you have a medical condition or a disability which may affect your tour or require special arrangements or accommodations, please discuss these with us before booking.

We will do our best to accommodate food allergies and dietary restrictions. But please be aware that in many countries, restricted diets can be difficult to accommodate while dining out. Guests should communicate any special dietary needs prior to booking so that we can honestly and accurately asses whether we can accommodate them. Imagine Travel Tours, LLC. is not responsible to meeting special dietary requirements that they have not been made aware of or approved.

We reserve the right to refuse any reservation request.

TRANSPORTATION

The transportation of guests and baggage on all airlines and other transportation arrangements up to the start of the tour is the responsibility of the guest. Imagine Travel Tours, LLC.  does not arrange for or include airfare in our prices.

Round-trip transfers via private car from airport to hotel (and vice versa) are included in each tour package.  Transfers are only valid within 1 day of the start or conclusion of each tour.

RESERVATIONS AND BOOKING INSTRUCTIONS

To make a reservation, please fill out a reservation form online (at curatedtouring.com) or send an email inquiry to [email protected]

Submission of an online form does not guarantee a place on a tour.  A reservation is not final until a deposit has been received and confirmed. Guests are accepted on a tour based upon space and availability on a first-come, first-served basis.  If all places on the tour are filled, clients may have the option of adding their names to a waiting list.

CONTRACT

Information contained in ITT brochures, websites or other advertising materials (either in print or online) is not an offer or a contract.  From the time we approve your online reservation form, send an invoice, and receive your initial payment (deposit), a contract exists between you and ITT..

INSURANCE

It is a requirement of booking any tour with ITT that you have trip insurance.  The insurance must cover (at minimum) medical treatment, repatriation, loss of property and loss of payments to us in the event that you cancel the tour for any reason.  Every traveler is responsible for purchasing an adequate amount of trip insurance to cover his/her liabilities.

PRICING, DEPOSIT, AND PAYMENT POLICIES

All amounts referenced herein are in American dollars ($) unless otherwise noted.  The exclusive nature of our tours requires us to make advance deposits for special venues and events that are non-refundable and must be paid up to a year in advance.  In order to ensure availability at exclusive venues, a non-refundable deposit of 25% of the total cost of the tour is required to secure a confirmed reservation.  This must be paid within 7 days of receiving an invoice or your reservation may be automatically cancelled.  When more than one tour is booked, the deposit and payment policies apply per individual tour.  Please note: if a guest should cancel a tour due to illness or another reason covered by their trip insurance,  they should contact their provider, as their deposit may be reimbursed by their insurance.   

All prices are advertised based on single occupancy or double occupancy. Promotions and special offers are subject to availability and additional restrictions may apply.

Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, personal checks and Electronic Funds Transfer are all acceptable forms of payments.  All payments made by check should be made payable to ITT.

PAYMENT SCHEDULE

  • A 25% deposit (due within 7 days of invoice) is required to confirm the reservation

  • 100% of the remaining balance is due 90 days prior to the start of tour

Due to vendor policies specific to each tour, this policy is subject to revision at any time and will be submitted in writing to all travelers at the time of booking/reservation booking.

The final balance is due no later than 90 days prior to departure.  All reservations are subject to cancellation without refund if payments are not received by the due date.  All payments must go through our site’s secure online processing, be received as a personal check or money order in our office in Austin, Texas, or be directly transferred via wire transfer into our account.

Special offers may have different payment terms; please refer to the specific terms of these offers.

CANCELLATION POLICY

If you have to withdraw from a tour, there will be a charge which varies according to the period of notice you give.  The following charges will apply for cancellations:

  • If a traveler cancels 121 or more days before the first day of the tour, he/she will be charged 25% of the full cost of the tour (excluding the non-refundable deposit),

  • If a traveler cancels 120-60 days before the first day of the tour, he/she will be charged 50% of the full cost of the tour (excluding the non-refundable deposit).

  • If a traveler cancels 59-0 days before the first day of the tour, he/she will be charged 100% of the full cost of the trip (excluding the non-refundable deposit).

The day of cancellation is the day on which we receive written confirmation of cancellation.

If you cancel your booking in a double or twin room but are travelling with a companion who chooses to continue to participate in the tour, the companion will be required to pay the single-occupancy price.

We may be able to refund up to 80% of the non-refundable cost of trip per traveler if we are able to re-book your place with another client on the wait list.

ITT will not be required to refund any amount paid by any tour participant who must leave the tour early for any reason, nor shall ITT be responsible for any costs incurred by an early departure.

If ITT is forced to cancel a tour due to insufficient bookings, this would would occur at least eight weeks before the start of the tour and we would refund you 100% of your payment, including your deposit.

Cancellation may also occur if civil unrest, terrorism or threat thereof, war, natural disaster, or other circumstances arise in the region in which the tour was scheduled. If the United States government advises against travel, we will either cancel or adjust the itinerary to avoid risky areas.

ITT will not be liable for delay or inability to perform any condition herein or any part thereof caused by or arising out of strikes, labor difficulties/shortages, explosion, fire, flood, natural disaster, catastrophic conditions, or civil commotion, riot, insurrection, war, political disturbance, acts or threats of terrorism, acts of God, or other circumstances beyond their control.

CHANGES

Itineraries are subject to change and may need to be altered or cancelled due to circumstances beyond our control.  If circumstances prevent us from operating an event as advertised, we will replace the event with an appropriate and equitable alternative.  ITT reserves the right to withdraw and/or cancel a tour or to make changes in the itinerary and hotel accommodations whenever, in its sole judgement, conditions warrant such a change.

Prices shown in brochures, advertisements, and on the website are subject to change with or without notice.  For European tours, the pricing in American dollars ($) is based on a published conversion rate at the time that ITT negotiates and executes tour contracts with vendors.  Significant market changes may result in adjustments for currency fluctuations.  In the unlikely event that a market situation would prompt a pricing adjustment, such a change would be no later than 30 days prior to the start of a tour.

Airfare, excursions, events, concerts, beverages, and meals not included in the package are additional costs to the guest.  ITT is not responsible for omissions, printing, and/or presentation errors and reserves the right to make corrections as required.  Please check imaginetraveltours.com for the most up-to-date prices, terms and conditions.  In the event that amendments or modifications of any nature are required, they will be communicated in writing (either letter or email) to each client.

TRAVEL DOCUMENTS

Full travel documents will be issued approximately 3 weeks prior to departure. All early document requests will be charged a $100 early processing fee per traveler.

PASSPORT INFORMATION

Each guest must have a passport valid for six months following the end of the tour.  ITT accepts no responsibility for obtaining required visas nor for advising guests of visa or other immigration requirements.  Clients are advised that the living standards, customs, and practices at their destination, including the provision of utilities, services and accommodation, and safety standards may differ from those found in the United States.

CHILDREN AND MINORS

Children are welcome on all tours designated as “family-friendly”—please email [email protected] for a current list of these tours).  On all tours, minors under the age of 18 must be accompanied and share a hotel room (or have a hotel room adjoining) with a parent, legal guardian, or other responsible adult over the age of 21.  ITT reserves the right to limit the number of minors under the age of 18 years on any of our tours.

TIPS

The cost of the trip includes appropriate gratuities for hotel service, dining, tastings, and other special events. Guests do not need to leave additional tips at venues unless they feel compelled to do so.

RESPONSIBILITY

ITT accepts no liability or responsibility, whether occasioned by railroad, coach, private car, boat, scooter, bike, aircraft, or any other conveyance, reason, or defect, for any injury, damages, loss, accident, delay, or irregularity which may be occasioned either by reason or defect, through the acts or defaults of any company or person, or in carrying out the arrangements of the tour, as a result of any cause beyond the control of ITT

Guests specifically release ITT from any and all claims for loss or damage to baggage or property or for personal injuries or death, or from all claims and any loss or delay, arising out of the acts, omissions, or negligence of ITT or any of its contractors (including vessel operators, air carriers, hotels, restaurateurs, transportation providers, spa professionals, medical personnel, or other providers of services or facilities), unless prohibited by law.  All arrangements made for tour participants with independent contractors, including medical and spa services, are made for the convenience of participants and are done at the participant’s own risk.  ITT disclaims all liability for damages for emotional distress, mental suffering, or psychological injury of any kind, except to the extent prohibited by the applicable law.  Tickets, vouchers, and any other travel documents are subject to all terms and conditions of the respective suppliers.

Please note that we subscribe to the health and safety legislation of the countries in which the tours operate.  The generally high standards of the United States are not found everywhere; regulations may diverge in particular in the areas of accessibility, handrails, and seat belts.

PHOTOGRAPHY PERMISSION

Unless otherwise expressed, you grant to ITT the rights and permissions to use images of you and the group during the tour for advertisement and website purposes.

COPYRIGHT

Unless otherwise expressly noted, ITT is the copyright owner or licensee of the materials in all of our advertising and on our website.  You may not reproduce, distribute, or display content from any of ITT’s materials except with our prior written permission. All rights not expressly granted herein are reserved.  Any unauthorized use of the Materials may violate copyright, trademark, and other applicable laws and could result in criminal or civil penalties.

PRIVACY POLICY

ITT is committed to protecting your personal information.  We collect and use individual client details only where we have legitimate business reasons and are legally entitled to do so.  We do not share your personal information or data with any other businesses, marketing firms, advertisers, or other individuals.  Your information is collected solely for the purpose of

  • Completing, managing, and updating your booking(s)

  • General communication (including details of new tours, forthcoming events, surveys, etc.)

  • Completing credit card payment transactions relating to our website and services, which are handled by our payment services provide.

  • To disclose your information for immigration, security and anti-terrorism purposes, if requested by government authorities.

**This policy is reviewed regularly and was last updated on January 8, 2019.  If you have any questions about your privacy and data security, please contact us.**

US Location:
San Diego, CA

Italian Location:
Florence, Italy

French Location
Paris, France

For help with reservations, please contact
[email protected]

Contact Darla Dressler
[email protected]

Contact Valeria Alkan
[email protected]

Media Relations
[email protected]

For questions or assistance with the website, please contact
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