Passport, visa, and entry requirements for Great Britain, Netherlands, Germany, Czech Republic, Austria, Italy for US citizens.

• Passport: Your passport should have at least two blank pages for entry stamps. Your passport is valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of your trip
• Visa Requirement: A visa is not required to enter Great Britain, Netherlands, Germany, Czech Republic, Austria, Italy
• Entry Requirements: You can see the most up-to-date entry requirements for the destination(s) you’ll visit on tour by going to getours.com/travel-requirements-restrictions.

The climate in the United Kingdom is generally classified as temperate maritime, characterized by mild winters and cool summers. The weather is known for its variability and can change frequently throughout the day. Rainfall is evenly distributed throughout the year, with showers being common. The western parts of the UK, particularly areas like Wales and Scotland, tend to experience higher rainfall compared to the eastern regions. The UK is influenced by the warm Gulf Stream, which helps to moderate temperatures and prevent extreme heat or cold.

The weather in the Netherlands is influenced by its maritime location and prevailing westerly winds. It experiences mild, wet winters with temperatures averaging around 2-6°C (36-43°F) and cool summers with temperatures averaging around 17-20°C (63-68°F). Rainfall is evenly distributed throughout the year, with slightly drier months in spring and early autumn. The coastal areas are often slightly milder than inland regions due to the moderating effect of the North Sea. The country occasionally experiences strong winds and storms during the winter months, with the possibility of snowfall, particularly in the eastern regions.

Germany experiences a temperate seasonal climate with four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Summers are generally mild to warm, with average temperatures ranging from 20° to 30°C (68° to 86°F). Winters can be cold, especially in the northern and eastern regions, with temperatures often dropping below freezing and occasional snowfall. Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, although the summer months tend to be wetter. The coastal areas, such as Hamburg and Bremen, have a maritime climate with milder winters and cooler summers compared to the inland regions.

The Czech Republic has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are generally warm, with average temperatures around 20-25°C (68-77°F), but can sometimes reach higher. Winters are cold, with temperatures averaging around 0 to -5°C (32 to 23°F), and snowfall is common. Spring and autumn offer mild temperatures, with blooming flowers in spring and colorful foliage in autumn. Rainfall is evenly distributed throughout the year, with slightly wetter months during the summer. The climate can vary across the country due to its diverse topography, with the western regions being generally milder and wetter, while the eastern areas experience more continental influences.

Austria has a diverse climate due to its varied topography, but it is predominantly characterized by a temperate continental climate. Summers are generally warm, with average temperatures ranging from 20 to 25°C (68 to 77°F). Winters can be cold, particularly in the mountainous regions, with temperatures often dropping below freezing and significant snowfall in the alpine areas. The western parts of Austria are influenced by the Alpine climate, with cooler temperatures and heavier precipitation, especially during the winter months. Precipitation is evenly distributed during the year, with slightly higher rainfall in the summer months.

Italy experiences a diverse range of climates due to its geographical location. Generally, the country has a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Coastal regions enjoy mild temperatures throughout the year, while inland areas can experience more significant temperature variations. Northern Italy tends to be cooler than the south, and the mountainous regions, such as the Alps and the Dolomites, have colder winters and offer opportunities for winter sports. It's always a good idea to check the weather conditions for the region you plan to visit, as they can vary.

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:

Passport and Travel Documents: Ensure you have your passport, travel insurance, and any necessary travel documents.

Clothing:

• Comfortable walking shoes: Cobblestone streets and uneven terrain require comfortable footwear.
• 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: It's advisable to bring a light jacket or sweater and a scarf for layering, especially in Spring or Fall.
• 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.
• Travel adapter and/or voltage converter
• Portable power bank for charging devices on the go.
• Small travel hair dryer (make sure you have the correct converter and adapter).

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

• American appliances run on 110 volts, while European, UK, and Ireland appliances run on 220-230 volts.
• All of Europe operates on the same two round-pronged outlets (Type C) except for the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland, which operate three flat rectangle-pronged outlets (Type G).
• Adapters allow American-style plugs with two flat prongs to fit into British or Irish outlets, which take three rectangular prongs, or continental European outlets, which take two round prongs.
• If your devices use a different voltage or plug type, you will need a plug adapter and/or voltage converter to use them in Europe. You will need a plug adapter and voltage converter to use your appliances in the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland.
• We recommend purchasing an adapter with a voltage converter so you can pack less. Also, pick up any necessary adapters or converters for your electronic devices before departing on your guided tour and bringing them with you.

Hair Dryers in Your Hotel

Hair dryers are common accessories in hotels. Should you want to bring your own, though, you will need to bring an adapter and voltage converter or make sure it is dual voltage by checking the label for INPUT AC 120V - 240V or a switch that can be set to 125V or 250V. Many devices have this feature, so it's worth checking before you travel. If you specifically 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 European and UK hotels, restaurants, and public spaces, especially in major cities and tourist areas, but it is worth noting that the settings will differ from what you are used to in the USA.
• However, it's important to note that not all accommodations or historic buildings may have air conditioning, particularly in more traditional or rural settings.
• Most hotels in Europe can provide a portable fan for additional room cooling if requested. Your Travel Director will be on hand to assist you throughout your trip.

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 for Europe flights not arriving to or departing from London
Airport transfers to and from the airport on the first and last days of your tour are complimentary only if:

• You are traveling on a tour operated by Trafalgar, Insight Vacations, or Luxury Gold
• Your flight times coincide with the shuttle-coach transfer timings

Airport Transfers for Europe flights arriving to or departing from London
Airport transfers to and from the airport on the first and last days are complimentary only if:

• You are traveling on a tour operated by Trafalgar, Insight Vacations, or Luxury Gold
• You booked your land tour and flights as a land/air package through GET. If you book your flights independently via London Heathrow, you can *purchase a transfer through us.

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 for 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.

Usually, most Optional Experiences will be priced in the local currency, but please read through the details of individual optional experiences for specific 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 abroad.

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.

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 €1-2 (Euro) or £1-2 (Pounds) per person per 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/per day is listed in your travel documents.

For your convenience and ease, there is an option to pre-pay gratuities for the Travel Director and Driver at the time of booking.

Hotel services

Tipping hotel staff for room service delivery is customary if a charge needs to be added to the bill.