Best Of

Re: Non Disclosure of total costs- AWFUL!

I agree with all the posters who said this was not new and well-deserved. However, what I don't like is carrying hundreds of dollars/euros/etc* throughout the trip to have the tip ready at the end. For that reason alone, I'd prefer that the "standard" tip be rolled into the trip cost. The option, as always with tipping, would remain to recognize extraordinary service with an additional gratuity.

since I think the standard language is ambiguous about the currency, I compute in dollars but if in the Eurozone convert to Euros since many of the TDs on those tours are based in Europe. I expect that the mishmash of currencies and the large amounts cash the TDs end up with makes it harder for them to get it in their desired currency and into a bank.

Portolan

6

Okavango Delta

For anyone who would like to do some homework on the Delta and the annual floods, I recently watched a couple of very good National Geographic documentaries: Into the Okavango; and The Flood.

Lotusgirl

1

Re: Malaria Medication South Africa Kruger & Vic Falls

Buonviaggio,

Good to hear from you. Went to Cosco today ...my physician ordered both Malarone GENERIC (Atovaquone/Proguanil HCl 250-100 Mg Tablets) and Doxycycline Hyclate 100 Mg Capsules as I couldn't make up my mind!
I have decided to do the Generic Malarone as I love the sun and don't want to deal with the sensitivity issues
Thanks for you input! FIRST time going to Africa!
Happy travels!

Stellie

2

Re: Essence of Japan in Autumn

We are having similar weather here Debi. I’ve never had to wear that many clothes except in Patagonia.

British

1

Essence of Japan in Autumn

Hello All,
I am thinking about taking the Essence of Japan tour in October/November. I was wondering, for those who have been in Japan at that time, if you encountered the beautiful fall colors that you see in photos of Japan?

Also, how was the weather in October/November?

Thank you!

JMJ

1

Yellowstone Winter Insights

We are recently booked for Yellowstone in Jan 2024 and reviewing clothing recommendations. Planning on layers and we are familiar w/ winter wear, synthetics, no cotton, etc. Ski pants / bibs w/ elastic internal snow shields over boots.

Biggest question is re footwear as we may need to make an addition there. I'm guessing wool socks, insulation & water proof bottoms most important. Lace up vs slip in for better fit and avoiding snow over tops. Would like to avoid calf high tops if possible due to space to pack... is something above ankle ht sufficient for walking, viewing, etc? We are not planning on snowmobiling, XC skiing, snowshoeing... just viewing the sights. I'm thinking boot / toe warmers can go a long way for comfort vs super arctic pacs? Any insights appreciated.
Thnx

DKloeber

1

Re: Okavango Delta

We timed our Z,B, and SA trip to be at the Falls at maximum flood stage and the Okavango full of water. Both the Victoria Falls and the Okavango were spectacular.

Sealord

3

Re: Arriving in AM in Amsterdam before checkin

Short, what a great city Amsterdam is! I love the hop on hop off buses that you can pick up along the canal near Centraal Starion. Some even include a canal cruise. Or perhaps just take a canal cruise. I look for a hop on hop off bus every time I land in a major city after a long flight that arrives early in the AM. The buses are like big baby carriages for the jet lagged!