Passport, visa, and entry requirements for Great Britain, Netherlands, Germany, France, Austria, Italy, Switzerland 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, France, Austria, Italy, Switzerland
• 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.

France has a varied climate due to its size and geographical diversity. The northern regions, including Paris, have a temperate climate with mild summers and cool winters. Coastal areas along the Mediterranean, such as Nice and Marseille, have a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot summers and mild winters. The mountainous regions, like the French Alps, experience alpine climate conditions with cold winters and heavy snowfall, making them popular for winter sports. Western France, including cities like Bordeaux and Nantes, has an oceanic climate with mild, damp winters and mild summers. Overall, France experiences regional variations in temperature, precipitation, and sunshine hours throughout the year.

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.

Switzerland experiences a diverse range of weather and climate due to its varied topography. In general, it has a temperate climate with distinct seasons. Summers are mild to warm, with average temperatures ranging from 20 to 25°C (68 to 77°F), while winters are cold, especially at higher altitudes, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. The mountainous regions receive significant snowfall, making them popular destinations for winter sports. Spring and autumn are transitional seasons characterized by mild temperatures and occasional rainfall.

Luggage on Tour

Traveling with GET entitles each guest to travel with one suitcase not exceeding 50 lbs in weight, and no larger than 30” x 18” x 10.” Carry-on/hand luggage is restricted to one piece per person, not exceeding 12”x11”x6” to fit under your coach seat or in the small overhead compartment.

For safety reasons, small rolling suitcases are not permitted inside the coach. As our coaches have large windows, there is minimal space to store them securely overhead or under the seat. The suggested carry-on is a soft-sided bag similar to a backpack, tote bag, etc.

So your driver and the 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

When packing for a guided tour, it's essential to consider the local climate, cultural norms, and the activities you'll be engaging in. Here's a suggested packing list:

Clothing

• Comfortable walking shoes: The UK and Europe’s 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. We also suggest packing a portable umbrella or light rain jacket to prepare you for unexpected rain showers.
• 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 attire for all included daytime and evening activities throughout your tour.

Accessories

• Sun protection: It’s always recommended to carry sun protection, including a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
• Daypack or tote bag: A small backpack or tote bag will be handy for carrying essentials during your explorations.
• Travel adapter, voltage converter, and charger: Ensure you have the appropriate adapters for power outlets and a charger for your electronic devices. (See Electricity, Adapters & Air Conditioning

Miscellaneous Items

• A camera: There is an abundance of stunning scenery and historic sites you’ll want to capture. To ensure that you don't miss a single moment, it's important to have a trustworthy camera at your disposal. You can also use the camera on your phone, but you might want to zoom in or capture moving objects. A camera is your best bet for this.
• A new, blank journal to document your trip. Don't know your travel journal style? Find out here!
• A small travel alarm
• A travel iron if you like your clothes to be pressed
• A washcloth and carry bag
• A travel pillow

Electricity

American appliances run on 110-120 volts at 60 Hz, while European appliances run on 220-230 volts at 50 Hz.

As a result, American appliances designed for use in the United States (typically 120 volts at 60 Hz) may not be directly compatible with the higher voltage used in European countries. Plugging a 120-volt appliance into a 220-240-volt outlet without the appropriate voltage converter or transformer can cause damage to the appliance or pose safety risks.

If you plan to bring American appliances to Europe, you will need a voltage converter or transformer to change the voltage to 220-240 volts from 110 volts. Additionally, you will likely need a plug adapter to fit the American-style plug into the European power outlets. All of Europe operates on the same two round-pronged outlets (Type C).

It's important to note that not all appliances are compatible with voltage converters, so it's essential to check the labels or user manuals of your devices before using them with a voltage converter. Some electronic devices, such as laptops, smartphones, and camera chargers, are dual voltage and can support 120V and 220-240V, so they may not require a voltage converter, but a plug adapter will still be necessary.

To avoid any issues with electrical compatibility during your travels, consider purchasing appliances specifically designed for the voltage used in the region you'll be visiting or use appropriate voltage converters and plug adapters to ensure the safe operation of your American appliances in Europe.

We recommend purchasing an adapter with a voltage converter so you can pack less. And to 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 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 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 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, and your flight times coincide with the shuttle-coach transfer timings. 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.

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.

It's essential to ensure that your routine vaccinations are up-to-date before traveling to any destination. Routine vaccinations may include vaccinations for 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 equivalent to $1.00-$2.00 USD 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

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.