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Welcome to the 'City of Angels', Los Angeles. Feel the California sunshine on your face as you have a free day to take a bus over to Venice Beach and enjoy some family time on the shore. Visit the Venice Skatepark to watch the skaters' tricks, then stroll to Santa Monica Pier to ride the giant ferris wheel. A welcome meeting will be held at 18:00 hrs, where you will meet your tour leader and fellow travelling companions.La Quinta LAX (or similar)
Today will bring out the child in everyone! Enjoy an included visit to Universal Studios where you can take a behind-the-scenes studio tour and ride the most exciting roller coasters on the planet. This is entertainment central for the whole family and the perfect way to experience Los Angeles after touring Hollywood.La Quinta LAX (or similar)
Our California tour continues with a visit to the golden sandy beaches of San Diego. If you're looking for the perfect place to relax, but with enough activities to keep the kids entertained, then make sure you visit Mission Beach. Rent bikes, or rollerblades to cruise around on. Alternatively, for the more adventurous, try your hand at surfing the Californian waves. Enjoy an included picnic dinner on the beach - the perfect end to a perfect day.Optional Activities:Ocean Beach Surf and Skate - Surf Lessons: US$105 Rollerblading US$7Bike rental US$7Participatory Camping Campland on the Bay (or similar)
Home to the original London Bridge and designated as a recreational area, this desert oasis has become a mecca for water sports enthusiasts throughout the Southwest. With 300 days of sunshine a year and all the adventure you could possibly wish for, Lake Havasu is a great way to keep the kids entertained. Simply relax and go for a swim to cool off after a long day.Optional Activities:Watersports - Prices Vary (US$)Quality Inn and Suites Lake Havasu (or similar)
Desert turns to pine covered plateaus as the earth opens to reveal one of the world's natural wonders, the Grand Canyon. This incredible spectacle is something truly special to witness, especially through the eyes of a child. Whether you decide to hike along the rim or take the more adventurous route into the canyon itself, you'll be amazed at the sheer beauty of the place. Carved over several millennia, this massive wonder of nature is 277 miles (445 kilometres) long, up to 18 miles (29 kilometres) wide and over a mile deep (1.6 kilometres). Snaking through the canyon floor is the mighty Colorado River, which runs 1450 miles (2330 kilometres) through seven American states and two Mexican states.You can explore the park at your own pace and we highly recommend a scenic helicopter flight over the canyon, which offers a unique bird's eye view that will amaze the whole family. Pop in to the Grand Canyon Visitor Centre to learn how the canyon was formed, then venture down the Bright Angel Trail to Plateau Point to let off some steam, or just stroll along the more leisurely West Rim Trail and catch the shuttle bus to Hermit's Rest. Finish off the day by enjoying a dinner with a view as you tuck into pizza and watch the sunset over the canyon, perfection!Optional Activities:Helicopter flight US$289IMAX Theater US$10Participatory CampingCampsite varies depending on departure
Before arriving to the ultimate desert show stopper, Las Vegas, you'll travel down a section of the original Route 66 and stop at the town of Seligman, filled to the brim with pure Americana. Why not try a super thick milkshake at the all-American Snow Cap Diner? Next, is the desert city of Las Vegas - the ultimate entertainment experience. With its roller coasters, thrill rides, magic shows, amazing swimming pools and all-you-can-eat buffets, there's plenty for the whole family to see and do. Family friendly recommendations include Circus Circus and Treasure Island which are guaranteed to be a hit. In the evening walk the Strip and enjoy the bright lights and fountain displays.Alexis Park (or similar)
Make your way across the desert towards Keough Hot Springs, one of the largest natural hot springs in the Eastern Sierras. After all the excitement and the hustle and bustle from the previous day, this is the perfect place to relax and cool off in the sunshine.Participatory campingBrown's Campground (or similar)
Yosemite is one of California's most treasured national parks and it's easy to see why. Nestled high in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, this is a natural playground of unspoilt forest and sheer granite walls rising thousands of feet over the valley floor. There's also plenty of wildlife to be spotted, including bears and coyotes. Whether inner-tubing down the meandering Merced River (in season) or hiking to the top of thundering Nevada Falls, Yosemite's towering cliffs, waterfalls and Giant Sequoias are sure to impress the entire family.Yosemite embodies the spirit of America's natural parks and its rugged, towering peaks and magnificent waterfalls have been immortalised by countless photographers. Trails throughout the park are as varied as the landscape and you'll no doubt find a trail that will appeal to you and your family. Take in the quintessential vistas of El Capitan, a 3,000 foot sheer rock face famous with rock climbers the world over. Other popular spots in the park are Bridalveil Falls, one of the most prominent waterfalls in Yosemite, and the famous granite Half Dome, a rock formation you will have seen before on countless postcards. At night, it's the ideal place to stargaze around the campfire as you toast marshmallows.Optional Activities:Bike Rental US$12-$34Float Trip on the Merced River US$31Participartory campingYosemite Lakes RV Resort (or similar)
Continue on to San Francisco, or the 'City by the Bay', as it is commonly known. Why not stay on a few extra days and hop on a cable car, taking in Chinatown, before visiting the Aquarium of the Bay and the city's playful sea-lions at Pier 39? Head over to Golden Gate Park with a picnic and stroll across Golden Gate Bridge for inspired views of the city. A 'must do' in San Francisco is the offshore prison of Alcatraz, where you can learn all about the infamous inmates and their failed escape attempts. If you plan on doing this, you'll need to book in advance directly with the Alcatraz Cruises as it tends to book up fast.Your California family holiday ends at our gateway hotel at approximately 17:00 hrs. We can book you post-tour accommodation at our gateway hotel if required. If you are planning to fly tonight, please do not book a flight that departs before 21:00 hrs.
Travel by private minibus with trailer for luggage and equipmentGroup
normally 6 to 13, plus leader7 nights participatory camping, 4 night hotel
9 breakfasts, 9 lunches and 7 dinners Most of the meals are included whilst
camping. Your tour leader will coordinate local shopping and assist the
group in preparing healthy, hearty breakfasts, picnic lunches and delicious
dinners. Occasionally, you will eat out in local restaurants. To help you
budget for these meals on average hotel breakfasts cost from US$6-$12,
lunches from US$8-$15 and dinners from US$13-$30; this does not include
alcoholic beverages. Wine costs approximately US$5 per glass and beer US$4
per bottle. Please be aware that a tip of approximately 17%-20% is added
to group meals in North American restaurants. Applicable taxes will also be
added to all listed menu prices. Please make sure we are aware of any
special meal requirements before travelling. We will do all we can to
accommodate for various dietary requirements but in certain parts of North
America certain food types can be limited.
Travel by private minibus with trailer for luggage and equipmentGroup
normally 6 to 13, plus leader7 nights participatory camping, 4 night hotel
This trip is graded as Activity Level: 1 (Leisurely). This is a busy tour
aimed at families travelling with children aged 9 and over. You will need to
be reasonably fit to do some of the hikes, but all are optional day walks and
there are a variety of routes and trails for all abilities. Please note that
due to federal laws in the Grand Canyon N.P your tour leader can't hike with
you. They will, however, prepare you for all available walks. The leader will
also advise those who do not wish to participate of the other options
available in the area. Some of the areas are remote and hiking or relaxing
will be the only possible entertainment, so you should be prepared for this.
The trails vary a great deal - in the more developed parks they are well
maintained and defined, whilst in the remote parks we might be following a
sandy, rocky creek bed or hike cross country over open desert terrain.
Crossing shallow streams (Zion) can be expected. Most of the walking is at
moderate altitudes and therefore should not cause any altitude-related
problems. Hiking options in Yosemite are quite varied and can be strenuous.
This tour will visit many of the most famous National Parks. Driving
distances are considerable but we have tried to ensure a steady pace with
time for relaxing. On several of the days we will leave early. Please do note
that the West is a big place and the distances might seem long compared to
Europe! While camping, members of the group are expected to fully
participate, including erecting and dismantling your own tent, and preparing
meals and washing up after meals. Although each tour follows an itinerary,
there is a certain amount of flexibility and from time to time your tour
leader may suggest changes. This may be due to road conditions, weather or a
visit to a special attraction or event that happens to be in progress.
Flexibility is key and often a side diversion will be a highlight of the
tour. Hikes and optional activities cannot be guaranteed and may vary
depending on ability, group interest, local weather conditions and time of
year. There are opportunities for optional activities during your tour. Your
tour leader will organise these on your behalf and you will pay locally in
cash. You’ll find the main optional activities listed above under each
itinerary day description, along with guideline prices. It may not be
possible to do all optional activities listed on each tour. Our tours are a
unique holiday experience and much of your enjoyment will come from the team
spirit of your group and the fun you’ll have together, as well as from the
local setting. We cannot stress strongly enough the importance of bringing a
positive attitude with you on tour; a sure guarantee to enjoying each and
every moment, even in the adversity of the odd rainstorm!
CampingWe use National and State Park campsites and also a wide assortment of
private campgrounds. Most will have flush toilets and hot showers, however
please be aware that some campgrounds may charge an additional fee of $1-$3
for showers. You will sleep in tents, which 2 people will share. Our camping
equipment also includes field kitchens, inflatable sleeping pads, food
storage and camp lanterns and chairs. Most campsites have a quiet time from
22:00 hrs to 07:00 hrs. Please respect your fellow campers who are there to
enjoy the peace and tranquillity of camping.An essential part of a camping
tour is helping out with the day to day camp duties and everyone will assist
with the setting up and packing up of the campsite. Your tour leader will
provide guidance on what to do, and typically it will only take 15 minutes to
set up or break down the tents and camp kitchen. Before you know it you’ll
be enjoying ‘home sweet home’ in the great outdoors.Your tour leader will
also co-ordinate and assist the group with food shopping, preparing meals and
cleaning up. Sharing the camp duties is a great way to bond with your fellow
travellers and the group camaraderie is all part of the experience.
Your tour leader will take care of all the planning and organisation
throughout your tour, they will drive the van taking you from A to B and make
sure everything runs smoothly. Your tour leader is there to make sure you get
the most out of your tour; organising activities, providing information and
answering any questions you may have as well as sorting out any queries or
problems. If you have any particular interests or things you would like to do
on your tour, then please let your tour leader know at the beginning of the
tour and they will do their best to help you.Working hour regulations for
Leaders - Please note that US Law regulates the total number of hours your
group leader is available to work. Tours are designed to make the most of
your time in the States, but please understand that there will be certain
times each day that your leader will need to be off duty from work in order
to rest and recuperate. Due to these restrictions, particularly after the
longer driving days, your leader may not be able to join you for some of the
daily activities or may need to tend to other work duties.
9 breakfasts, 9 lunches and 7 dinners Most of the meals are included whilst
camping. Your tour leader will coordinate local shopping and assist the
group in preparing healthy, hearty breakfasts, picnic lunches and delicious
dinners. Occasionally, you will eat out in local restaurants. To help you
budget for these meals on average hotel breakfasts cost from US$6-$12,
lunches from US$8-$15 and dinners from US$13-$30; this does not include
alcoholic beverages. Wine costs approximately US$5 per glass and beer US$4
per bottle. Please be aware that a tip of approximately 17%-20% is added
to group meals in North American restaurants. Applicable taxes will also be
added to all listed menu prices. Please make sure we are aware of any
special meal requirements before travelling. We will do all we can to
accommodate for various dietary requirements but in certain parts of North
America certain food types can be limited.
You’ll travel in a private 15-Seater Ford vehicle which is driven by your
tour leader. All luggage, equipment and other necessities are stored in a
specially designed trailer or storage area to maximise space and comfort in
the vehicle. The size of our vehicles allows us to reach more remote
destinations not accessible to larger vehicles. All our vehicles are equipped
with CD stereo systems (often iPod compatible) and air-conditioning.
START HOTELLa Quinta LAX5249 W Century1Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90045You will
need to make your own way to the joining hotel for your tour. You are free
to arrive at any time on day one of your tour but please ensure you leave
plenty of time to reach your joining hotel and attend your welcome meeting
which will be held at 18:00. Details on the time and specific location of
your meeting will also be available early on the arrival day. During this
evening meeting you will meet your tour guide and fellow travellers and also
spend a few minutes filling out necessary paperwork, so please bring your
insurance documents, passport and tour documentation to the meeting.ARRIVAL
COMPLICATIONSSometimes the unexpected can happen; your plane may be delayed
or you may even miss it! If you have missed your tour departure, first check
with the hotel to see if your tour guide has left you a message. If not, call
the relevant emergency number and speak to our staff who will be happy to
help you catch up with the group. Please note that you are responsible for
any extra travelling expenses incurred due to you missing your tour’s
departure, so please be on time.FINISHING POINTSAN FRANCISCO - Ramada
Limited SFO North721 Airport Blvd, South San Francisco, CAYour tour will end
upon arrival at the above hotel, which will be around 17:00 hrs on the final
day. Some tour activities scheduled for the last day may preclude an earlier
arrival at the end point hotel, so you should not book a flight that leaves
prior to 21:00 hrs. You will be responsible for any transportation costs if
you have to arrive for an earlier flight and you must make us aware of this
well in advance of your tour departing. If you require accommodation for the
last night, it is essential that you book this before your tour departs.Full
joining instructions including local emergency numbers will be sent to you as
part of our Final Joining Instructions. If you do not receive these at least
a week before departure, or require them earlier, please contact our office
or your travel agent.
The West is known for its very dry spring, summer and autumn weather and
outstanding blue, sunny skies. Being as far south as Southern Europe and
Northern Africa, temperatures are normally much warmer than in Northern
Europe. However, temperatures vary greatly depending on the elevation you are
at. Generally, the higher the elevation, the cooler the temperature. In
summer, Yosemite, Bryce and the Grand Canyon offer pleasant temperatures
ideal for hiking whereas some of the deserts might experience hotter
temperatures. On warmer days, the leader will opt for early morning and late
afternoon walks, leaving time for midday rest. The hottest time of day in the
desert is actually 3pm, and most nights will be mild to warm. Be prepared for
afternoon thunderstorms in the summer months, and look out for the plentiful
mountain wildflowers.
Please keep in mind that our dress tends to be informal. It is advised that
you take a practical selection of clothes for both warm and cool climates to
suit the season. Please see the temperature guide showing the highs and lows
that can be expected in key locations that your tour visits. However please
remember that this is just a guide and you may encounter a wide variety of
temperatures en route due to altitude and unforeseen weather conditions - so
it’s best to be prepared. Please note, we do not provide pillows. One can
be purchased locally in Walmart.Besides your essential clothing, here’s a
checklist of other items you should take:• Waterproof jacket• Warm
sweater / fleece• Casual ‘evening out’ clothes• Pillowcase (pillow
optional) / Sleeping bag liner• Hiking shoes / boots• Comfortable day
shoes• Sandals or flip-flops• Thick walking socks• Blister packs and
plasters• Hiking poles• Dry bag• Small dap pack• Water bottle• SD
memory card / spare camera batteries• Swim wear• Sun hat / sunglasses•
Camera / binoculars• Small flashlight / head torch• Sunscreen / insect
repellent (20% DEET)• Travel power adaptor• Toiletries / personal
medicine• TowelPlease note the airlines have various rules on what can be
carried in your luggage - if in doubt check with your airline before
travelling.FOOTWEARAs our family tours are quite active, we recommend
comfortable shoes to make walking and sightseeing more enjoyable. In National
Parks, the trails tend you be of a decent standard although there may be
uneven surfaces so it is best to wear covered shoes with ankle support. If
you do not own a pair of walking boots or trail shoes then sports trainers
will suffice although this is a personal choice. If you intend to do some
walking, it is recommended to bring thick walking socks for comfort.CLOTHES
WASHINGYou will have the opportunity to wash your clothes whilst you are on
tour, and this can often be done at the campsite or in town. Ask your tour
leader for local information.BATTERY CHARGINGMany of our travellers bring
mobile phones, music devices and cameras that require frequent battery
charging during a tour. When camping it is often difficult to find a safe and
secure wall outlet to recharge these devices, therefore we recommend that you
bring a car charger. Every vehicle has two outlets for your use, but please
bear in mind that thirteen people travelling with multiple devices can mean
very little charge time per person per day, so it may be useful bringing
extra batteries. When you are staying in hotels, your room will have an
electrical outlet (just remember your international adaptor!).WI-FI ON
TOURWhilst in the USA our vehicles are equipped with free Wi-Fi, so you can
keep in touch with friends and family from the road. Free Wi-Fi will also
often be available at campgrounds, hotels and hostels. In order for us to
provide this service, we operate a fair usage policy to ensure everyone has
equal access to Wi-Fi and is subject to a set data quota, sufficient for
normal usage. This means that you are not permitted to stream films, music or
download large files. If you do so, this will deplete the entire group’s
data allowance. For this reason, if you reach your data limit your tour
leader may need to turn off the Wi-Fi to ensure you do not run out of data in
the latter stages of your trip. Please note: In some remote areas you may not
be able to pick up the Wi-Fi in the van, and only five people can be
connected to the Wi-Fi at one time. Once you have finished using the Wi-Fi
please disconnect to prevent wastage.LUGGAGE ALLOWANCEOne suitcase, soft
holdall or rucksack (23kg maximum) per person, plus a sleeping bag. A small
daypack and camera can also be carried in the van. Before you travel, please
check the baggage allowance with the airline you’re flying with as this may
be less than 23kg.We are unable to offer luggage storage facilities however,
some of our pre and post tour hotels will provide this service although there
may be a charge. Please contact the hotels directly for further
information.SLEEPING BAGSYou will need to bring your own sleeping bag for
this tour, we will provide you with a self-inflating mattress to sleep on. If
you are travelling on an early or late season tour or a winter tour, you
might want to consider bringing a mountain climate (four season) sleeping bag
as the weather can be much cooler.
Your spending money needs to cover meals not included in the tour, drinks,
personal expenses such as laundry, souvenirs and snacks along the way. For
camping tours we recommend you take at least US$30 dollars per person per
day, but it’s better to bring more than you need rather than run short on
tour. You will also need to budget for any optional activities you wish to
do.
Although it may not be customary in your country, it is normal and expected
in North America to tip local guides, waiters, bar staff, taxi drivers and
anyone who provides a service for you. Service workers are paid a low wage
and depend on tips for their livelihood. It can be embarrassing if you’re
confronted by a local who is expecting a tip and you are not aware of how
much to offer. For this reason we have listed guideline prices below.A 15-17%
tip is standard in restaurants and you should also expect to tip $1 per drink
in bars, $1-2 per bag for porters as will 10% for taxi drivers. It’s also
typical to tip around 10% for local guides who provide optional
activities.Your tour leader will work long and hard for you during your tour
and we recommend a discretionary tip of US$5-10 per passenger per day if your
leader’s performance meets or exceeds your expectations.
Travel insuranceVisas or vaccinationsSingle accommodation (available on
request)Optional activities
Ved skriftlig aksept av vårt tilbud bekrefter du/dere at våre betingelser er både lest og forstått og at evt kansellerings gebyrer kan tilkomme ved en evt. avbestilling av reisen.