* 8 Nights in China and discover 5 UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
☆ Great Wall
☆ Forbidden City
☆ Grand Canal
☆ Suzhou Classical Garden
☆ Hangzhou West Lake
* 5 Nights In Thailand
☆ Absorb the bustle and beauty of Bangkok with its gold-leafed shrines, temples, and markets.
☆ Vibrant Pattaya on the Gulf of Thailand, with time to relax on its glittering beaches.
☆ Hotel upgrade and trip extensions available.
☆ Enjoy the spectacular Alcazar show.
☆ Explore the beautiful white beach of Coral Island.
☆ Phuket Extension Available.
Tour Code: USCT15-LO
Duration: 15 Days
Optional Features and Upgrades: Since the seats are limited, we recommend you to choose optional and extension programs at the time of booking:
Service Language: English
Extra Service: Travel Insurance Visa Service
1) Ground transportation between the cities ( BY BUS )
2) Hand-picked 4-star hotel accommodations
3) Sightseeing admission fees as listed on the agenda
4) Food as specified on the itinerary (B-breakfast L-lunch D-dinner X-no meal)
Please note that if the flight for your tour is during lunch or dinner time, your meal will be served on board by the airline.
5) Special cultural programs as specified in the schedule
6) Professional English-speaking local tour expert
7) All tax and fuel surcharge
1) China visa fee
2) Travel insurance
3) Any personal expenses
4) Tour Extensions and Optional programs:
5) Single Supplement Fee (Our tour price is based on double occupancy. If a single passenger is traveling alone and not sharing a room for the entire trip, the tour price charged to the single traveler will be double the standard tour price.)
6) A no-show fee of $100 per person, per day will be issued if, for any reason, a customer does not attend the daily scheduled activities. This applies to all sponsored tours, packages, and all discounted China tours, including this product.
7) All International and domestic flights.
Note: A discounted Flight ticket bundle【】 includes all the International and domestic flights for this itinerary is available via UTOvacation. You are required to book at least 180 days in advance of your trip.
Or you can also secure a flight with those credit card points you’ve been meaning to redeem.
8) A Mandatory Service Charges & Tipping of USD$445/person is required and payable by Credit Card Before Your Final Payment Due Date.
ALL PRICES ARE IN USD
DEPOSIT POLICY:
Full Payment is Required at the Time of Booking.
Optional And Extension Programs:
☆ Since the seats are limited, We recommend you to choose those optional and extension programs with your booking together.
No Extra Deposit Payment.
Group Size:
☆ 10 - 40 Each Departure Date.
Depart from the USA to Beijing on your own (International Airfare NOT provided with this package).
Note: A discounted Flight ticket bundle【】 includes all the International and domestic flights for this itinerary is available via UTOvacation. You are required to book at least 180 days in advance of your trip.
Or you can also secure a flight with those credit card points you’ve been meaning to redeem.
Upon arriving at Beijing Airport, you will be greeted by your tour guide and then transferred to the hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax.
Free at leisure to explore Beijing at your own pace. Or you may choose an optional day-tour of Beijing highlights.
(Recommended Options US$75):
After breakfast, visit 【Tiananmen Square】-the biggest city central square in the world, the area of the square is about 44 hectares and it can accommodate 1 million people. Explore the incredible 【Forbidden City】 with its best-preserved imperial palace complex. Experience Hutong, the old town of Beijing, on a man-powered pedicab to experience how natives live in their traditional lifestyle. Step in one of the local 【Siheyuan courtyard house】 to learn how to make Chinese dumplings and enjoy a real typical home-made lunch. Walk around the 【Lotus Market】.
(Recommended Options US$55):
Visit the 【Summer Palace】& Visit the exterior of 【Bird"s Nest】&【Water Cube】(2008 Olympic stadiums)
Being the largest and most well-preserved royal park in China, Summer Palace greatly influences Chinese horticulture and landscape with its famous natural views and cultural interests, which also has long been recognized as "The Museum of Royal Gardens".
After breakfast, explore the【Juyongguan Great Wall】, one of the seven greatest man-made wonders of the world and definitely the focal point of China. You will hike along the Great Wall. On the way there, visit Jade Store first. In Chinese, jade is pronounced as ‘Yu’, and it has a history in China of at least four thousand years. After that visit 【Chinese Herbal Institute】 to learn about traditional Chinese medicine which has existed for thousands of years.
(Recommended Options US$45):
Evening large scale dramatic musical performance 【Golden Mask Dynasty Show】.
Take the early flight to Shanghai Hongqiao Airport (SHA).
【If you are planning to purchase the air ticket on your own, please arrange for your flight to arrive at Shanghai Hongqiao Airport (SHA) before 11:00 am (Airport code is SHA ,not PVG).】
After arrival, transfer to Suzhou, This city, which dates back to 514 BC, is sometimes called the "Venice of the East". Visit【Lanli Garden】where you could treasure the exotic silk embroidery history. Visit the 【Garden of Master of the Nets】the smallest yet the most delicate landscape garden in Suzhou.
Note: A 2-hour flight is available for purchase on your own or you can purchase via UTOvacation at least 180 days in advance of your trip)
Note: A discounted Flight ticket bundle【】 includes all the International and domestic flights for this itinerary is available via UTOvacation. You are required to book at least 180 days in advance of your trip.
Or you can also secure a flight with those credit card points you’ve been meaning to redeem.
Today you will visit the Silk Spinning Factory and enjoy the Silk-making demonstration. Transfer to Wuxi. Wuxi is an ancient city richly endowed with nature due to its pleasantly warm and moist climate – it boasts a reputation of being the “Land of Fish and Rice”. Visit the famous 【Nanchang Street】.
(Recommended Options US$30):
Boat ride on the 【Grand Canal 】with walk around the local market.
After breakfast, enjoy the scenery as we pass by【 Lake Tai】, the third-largest freshwater lake in China. Visit the【Lihu Park】, and the largest Fresh Water Pearl Center. Transfer to Hangzhou. Hangzhou, one of the six ancient capital cities, is the hometown for green tea. Visit【West Lake】- the most famous attraction in Hangzhou. West Lake was man-made and created after the Chinese love for garden-style parks for recreation. Visit【Fish Viewing at the Flower Pond】.
(Recommended Options US$30):
Boat ride on the 【West Lake】 the most renowned feature of Hangzhou noted for its scenic beauty which blends naturally with many famous historical and cultural sites.
The morning starts from an educational stop for a taste of Dragon Well Tea at the Longjing Green Tea village. Later drive back to Shanghai, the largest city by population in China. Appreciate scenery by walking along【the Bund】, a mile-long stretch along the Huangpu River. This area is the best place to capture the western influences of the old days.
(Recommended Options US$45):
Take a 【Cruise on the Huangpu River】, while on the cruise, you can take an outside view of the 【Oriental Pearl Tower】, the modern symbol of Shanghai City.
Free at leisure for last-minute souvenir shopping or just relaxing at your hotel. Or you may choose an optional day tour of Shanghai highlights.
(Recommended Options US$45):
【Shanghai maglev train 】is the fastest train in the world with an unbelievable top speed of 431km per hour. It is the only super high-speed bullet train with Magnetic technology in operation all over the world. Shop till you drop at knock-off market for your last minute shopping before exploring the famous【Xintiandi】, a stylish pedestrian street composed of Shikumen architecture and modern complex.
(Recommended Options US$45):
【Shanghai Acrobatics Show】.
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Bangkok(International Airfare NOT provided with this package).
Welcome to Thailand! Known as the City of Angels, Bangkok is the capital city and the focal point of Thailand. Upon arrival, find your own transportation to your hotel. The remainder of the evening is to rest and relax.
Note: A 4-hour flight is available for purchase on your own or you can purchase via UTOvacation at least 180 days in advance of your trip)
Note: A discounted Flight ticket bundle【】 includes all the International and domestic flights for this itinerary is available via UTOvacation. You are required to book at least 180 days in advance of your trip.
Or you can also secure a flight with those credit card points you’ve been meaning to redeem..
Bangkok’s history dates back to the 15th century where its strategic location at the west bank of the mouth of the Chao Phraya River made it an important customs and trading outpost during the Ayutthaya Kingdom. Today it is a major city with a population of over 8 million. On the first day of Bangkok, you shall embark on the morning excursion to explore this forever vibrant city of Asia. Discover the amazing Golden Buddha statue at Wat Traimit in Chinatown that was almost forgotten for a few hundred years if not for an accident that chipped off its stucco shell to reveal its golden self. Weighing a staggering five-and-a-half ton, the gold seated Buddha was plastered over and disguised to hide it from invading the Burmese army that ransacked the old kingdom. Then proceed to visit Wat Benchamabophit Dusitvanaram – a Buddhist temple in the Dusit District of Bangkok that typifies Bangkok"s ornate style of high gables, stepped-out roofs, and elaborate finials. Also known as the marble temple, it is built in 1899 at the request of King Chulalongkorn and is one of Bangkok"s best-known temples and a major tourist attraction. Designed by the half-brother of the king, it is built of Italian marble with displays of Carrara marble pillars, a marble courtyard, and two large marble lions guarding the entrance. The interiors are decorated with crossbeams of lacquer and gold, and in shallow niches in the walls of paintings of important stupas all over the country. The cloister around the assembly hall houses 52 images of Buddha. The afternoon is at your own leisure, or join the optional tour to explore more of Bangkok.
Optional Program: Landmarks of Bangkok Tour: USD 49 per person (Minimum To 10 PP)
Participate in this exhilarating tour visiting the Grand Palace in Bangkok that was constructed in 1782 by the founder of the Chakri Dynasty, King Rama I. The palace complex of many buildings had been the residences of many Kings of Thailand until the abolition of absolute monarchy in 1932. The Grand Palace is currently partially open to the public as a museum, but it remains a working palace, with several royal offices still situated inside. View the royal chapel that is situated within the walls of the palace more popularly known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha or Wat Phra Kaew. It houses a figurine of the meditating Buddha seated in a yogic posture, made of semi-precious green stone, clothed in gold, and about inches tall that is considered the palladium of the Kingdom of Thailand. Then take a ride in a motorboat along the Chao Phraya River to take in the famous landmarks visible along the banks of this famous waterway of Bangkok.
Today, there will be an eye-opening treat to visit the famous Gems Gallery to take in all you need to know about gemology. The Gems Gallery is situated in four major cities in Thailand. And Gems Gallery has more than two decades of experience with jewelry and gems and draws on the accumulated knowledge of Man"s more than 4,000 years of relationship with precious stones. Next, take the approximately two-hour ride on the air-conditioned vehicle to Pattaya – a coastal resort city next to the Gulf of Thailand. Upon arrival and check-in, enjoy at your own leisure at the beach, rest in the hotel or explore this beach city on your own.
Optional Program: Alcazar Cabaret Show and Dinner: $59 per person (Minimum To 10 PP)
The Alcazar Cabaret Pattaya is recognized internationally throughout the entertainment circuit. Alcazar is more than just a drag queen show and in the early days was not accepted. After years of evolvement and development of new technology, the Alcazar Show is world acclaimed. It has successfully blended the art of acting, stage design, costumes, and performance so well that all ages can enjoy the spectacular show. The Alcazar show is a must-see for visitors locals or foreigners.
Free day at your leisure to relax on the sands or by the pool.
Optional Program: Coral Island Tour with Seafood Lunch: $69 per person (Minimum To 10 PP)
One of a glorious archipelago of islands off Pattaya, Coral Island (Koh Larn), is a 4-square-kilometer chunk of perfection, famous for its white-sand bays, verdant interior, and translucent seas — the latter home to wonderful outlying stretches of coral reefs. The island boasts three main beaches — Ta Waen, Thong Lang, and Samae Beach — each a crescent of pure sands lapped by blue waters and dotted with restaurants, food stands, sunlounger hire outlets, and watersports vendors.
Leave the beaches of Pattaya and head into the sparkling Gulf of Thailand to visit the idyllic beaches of Coral Island on this 5.5-hour tour. An enjoyable 45-minute speedboat rides from Pattaya, framed by white beaches and inviting turquoise waters straight from a tropical brochure. On arrival, sink your toes into the talcum-powder sands and enjoy several hours of free time to relax or explore as you wish. Swim over the coral beds in the glass-clear shallows, top up your tan on the beach or explore the lush wooded hills. Wrap up your visit with a mouth-watering seafood lunch at a simple beachside restaurant before cruising back to Pattaya and a return hotel transfer.
In the morning, you will board the transportation to leave for Bangkok. Along the way, visit the hilltop of Khao Phra Tamnak (Khao Phra Bat) on the south of Pattaya Beach, where one can see the panoramic view of Pattaya City and Pattaya Bay. Then stop at Thai-Silk Center - the best place to shop Thai silk and handicrafts. Driver back to Bangkok in the afternoon. Spend the evening as you wish or join our optional tour (extra cost) to Asiatique Riverfront Night Market and enjoy a classic Thai dinner and dance show “Siam Niramit” at the Grand Theatre.
Optional Program: Asiatique Night Market and Siam Niramit Show with Dinner at $69 per person (Minimum To 10 PP)
Asiatique The Riverfront is an expansive open-air mall with river views and a cutting-edge "festival market and living museum" concept. It"s a fairly new night market located in the heart of Bangkok City. Also, a great meeting place where local and foreign families can come together to revel in an energetic environment. Siam Niramit Show at the Grand Theatre with Dinner- Savor a delicious buffet dinner as you sit back and enjoy the performance. 700 years of history unfold before your eyes as the actors demonstrate pivotal moments in Thailand"s history, reenact cultural festivals, and reveal ancient customs
After Breakfast, make your own transfer to the airport for your departure flight.
Note: *Depending on the air availability, flight back to USA/Canada may depart (00:00 am-03: 00 am) on the next day.
For your final day, you may explore the city at your own convenience and transfer to Bangkok airport in the evening. The hotel checks out before noon. (Late check-outs are available for purchase if you wish to relax and enjoy your hotel room).
Note: A discounted Flight ticket bundle【】 includes all the International and domestic flights for this itinerary is available via UTOvacation. You are required to book at least 180 days in advance of your trip.
Or you can also secure a flight with those credit card points you’ve been meaning to redeem.
FLIGHT OPTION:
HOTEL UPGRADE:
☆ 5-star hotel hotel accommodations:
Price: U$899/Person
☆ Luxury 5 star hotel accommodations: U$1,899/person
MEAL PLAN:
☆ Breakfast Package ( Day 3-15):
Price: U$299/Person
Optional Programs Click Here To View More Information
* Select your optional packages while you are in China & Thailand and pay to the local tour guide.
Day 3 Beijing "Tiananmen Square & Forbidden City with lunch" ($75)
Day 3 Beijing "Summer Palace", "Bird Nest & Water Cube"(Exterior) ($55)
Day 4 Beijing "The Golden Mask Dynasty Show"($45)
Day 6 Suzhou "Boat ride on the Grand Canal"($30)
Day 7 Hangzhou "Boat ride on the West Lake"($30)
Day 8 Shanghai "Huangpu River Night Cruise" ($45)
Day 9 Shanghai "Shanghai maglev train and knock-off market."($45)
Day 9 Shanghai" Shanghai Acrobatics Show"($45)
Day 11: Bangkok Landmark Tour with Boat Ride: USD 49 per person
Day 12: Alcazar Cabaret show & Dinner: US$59 per person
Day 13: Coral Island Tour with Seafood Lunch: US$69 per person
Day 14: Asiatique Night Market & Siam Niramit Show with Dinner: US$69 per person
Tour Extensions:
1) Xi"an Terra Cotta Warriors 3Days 2Nights Package ( Pre-Tour ):
Price: USD 2799.00
Single Supplement: USD 2799.00
Gratuity: $60
Included:
*All China domestic flights and ground transportation
*Sightseeing admission fees as listed on the agenda,
*Food as specified on itinerary
*Guided Sightseeing Luxury Tour
*Ground transportation
* 4-star hotel accommodations with daily ABF
*Special cultural programs as listed in different cities as specified in the schedule
*Professional English speaking local tour expert
2) Yangtze River Cruise 6Days 5Nights Package ( Pre-Tour ):
Price: USD 2999.00
Single Supplement#1: USD 2999.00(For the solo traveler of the entire trip)
Single Supplement#2: USD 2999.00(For the party of three travelers, all of you will share a triple room on land hotels and for the cruise portion, two cabins will be provided as there is no triple cabin on the cruise)
Gratuity: $90
Included:
*5-Star Yangtze River Cruise
*All China domestic flights and ground transportation
*Sightseeing admission fees as listed on the agenda
*Food as specifying on itinerary
*Guided Sightseeing Luxury Tour
*Ground transportation
* 4-star hotel accommodations with daily ABF
*Special cultural programs as listed in different cities as specified in the schedule
*Professional English speaking local tour expert
3) Chiang Mai 5 Days 4 Nights Tour (Pick up and drop off service not included) ( Post-Tour ): Click here to view itinerary
Price: USD 2899.00
Single Supplement: USD 2899.00
Included:
*All Thailand domestic flights and ground transportation
*Food as specified on the itinerary
*Guided Sightseeing Luxury Tour
*Sightseeing admission fees as listed on the agenda
*Hand-picked 4 star hotel accommodations with daily ABF
*Special cultural programs as listed in different cities as specified in the schedule
*Professional English speaking local tour expert
Stay Like A Local-Extensions:
1) Shanghai 3 Nights Hotel Extension( Pre-Tour )
Price: USD 2399.00
Single Supplement: USD 2399.00
Included:
* 4-star hotel accommodations with daily ABF
*Airport drop off service
2) Shanghai 5 Nights Hotel Extension( Pre-Tour )
Price: USD 2599.00
Single Supplement: USD 2599.00
Included:
* 4-star hotel accommodations with daily ABF
*Airport drop off service
3) Beijing 3 Nights Hotel Extension( Pre-Tour )
Price: USD 2399.00
Single Supplement: USD 2399.00
Included:
*4-star hotel accommodations with daily ABF
*Airport drop off service
4) Beijing 5 Nights Hotel Extension( Pre-Tour )
Price: USD 2599.00
Single Supplement: USD 2599.00
Included:
*4-star hotel accommodations with daily ABF
*Airport drop off service
5) Phuket 3 NIGHTS Hotel extension (airport drop off not included) ( Post-Tour )
Price: USD 2599.00
Single Supplement: USD 2599.00
Included:
*Domestic flight from Bangkok to Phuket
*4-star hotel accommodations with daily ABF
5) Phuket 6 NIGHTS Hotel extension (airport drop off not included) ( Post-Tour )
Price: USD 2799.00
Single Supplement: USD 2799.00
Included:
*Domestic flight from Bangkok to Phuket
*4-star hotel accommodations with daily ABF
7) Bangkok 3 Nights Extension (Pick up and drop off service not included) ( Post-Tour )
Price: USD 2499.00
Single Supplement: USD 2499.00
Included:
*4-star hotel accommodations with daily ABF
4-Star Hotels:
(Based on ratings by booking.com / TripAdvisor / Expedia)
Beijing: Holiday Inn Beijing Shijingshan Parkview / similar
Suzhou: Holiday Inn Suzhou Huirong Plaza / similar
Hangzhou: Merchant Marco Garden Hotel / similar
Wuxi: Swiss-Bel Hotel Liyuan / similar
Shanghai: Shanghai Koyal International Hotel / similar
Bangkok 3 nights: The Royal River Hotel / Mandarin Hotel Bangkok / Grand China Hotel Bangkok / MetroPoint Bangkok / Montien Riverside Hotel Bangkok or Similar
Pattaya 2 nights: Cholchan Pattaya Beach Resort or Similar
5-Star Hotel Upgrade: Early Bird Price: $499
(Based on ratings by booking.com / TripAdvisor / Expedia)
Beijing: Chunhuiyuan Hot Spring Holiday Resort / similar
Shanghai: Auto City Ruili Hotel or similar
Suzhou: Grand Metropark Hotel Suzhou or similar
Wuxi: Wuxi Grand Gloria Hotel or similar
Hangzhou: New Century Grand Hotel Hangzhou or similar
Bangkok 3 nights: Pullman Bangkok King Power / Pullman Bangkok Hotel G or similar
Pattaya 2 nights: Pullman Pattaya Hotel G / Mytt Beach Hotel Pattaya or similar
International Air:
*UTOvacation reserve the right to confirm the airlines, sample as below:
☆ United Airline:
☆ American Airline:
☆ Delta Airline:
☆ Air China:
☆ Air Canada:
☆ Hainan Airlines:
☆ China Eastern Airlines:
☆ Cathy Pacific Airlines;
☆ China Southern Airlines;
☆ Xiamen Airlines;
☆ Beijing Capital Airlines;
☆ Sichuan Airlines;
☆ Hongkong Airline:
☆ Eva Air:
This trip requires a Chinese Visa for USA & CANADA passport holders.
Visit the "IATA Travel Centre" for detailed information on country-specific passport, visa and health requirements:
https://www.iatatravelcentre.com/passport-visa-health-travel-document-requirements.htm
* UTOvaction"s China Visa Service Options:
1: Group visa ( Single entry valid for 1 month from the date issue. At Least 2 People Travel Together. For less than 79 years old ): $398pp
2: Individual visa ( Multiple entries valid for up to 10 years ): $484pp
* A final trip confirmation will be sent to the main contact passenger via email one month prior to departure that includes a day-by-day itinerary, hotel information, and flight information.
* If acquiring a visa on your own, the supporting documents will be provided from UTOvacation one month prior to the trip departure date. Supporting documents requested early are subject to a $100pp administration fee.
* All information and requirements in regard to visa applications are available on the Chinese Consulate"s website. Applicants are required to bring their visa application along with all supporting documents. Please contact your local Chinese Embassy/Consulate directly if you apply for a Chinese visa on your own.
Please call 1-855-526-1286 or email [email protected] for any inquiries.
More about Travel Documents
*It is your responsibility to ensure that you- and any child travelling with you- have all the valid travel documents necessary to enter in, exit from or transit through, each country/region on your itinerary. Note that the documents required for the outbound portion of your travel may differ from those required for the return.
*Your passport should be valid for six months beyond your date of return. Passport must be in good condition: passport damaged beyond normal wear and tear will not be accepted.
*Consult with the appropriate embassy, high commission or consulate about the travel document requirement for any country that you plan to enter in, exit from or transit through.
*Some country no longer issue paper visas but rather electronic visas. E-Visa holders must present the printed e-Visa and valid passport at the checkpoint.
*International travel with infants and children may be required to show documentary evidence of your relationship and a Letter Consent or permission for the child’s travel from the parent(s) or legal guardian not present.
*Americans holding dual citizenship must travel to the United States with a valid U.S. passport. American permanent residents returning to the United States from abroad must carry a valid passport and a valid U.S. Permanent Resident Card (Green Card).
*Canadians holding dual citizenship must travel to Canada with a valid Canadian passport. Canadian permanent residents returning Canada from abroad must carry a valid passport and a valid Canadian Permanent Resident Card (PR Card).
Thailand is often referred to as the “land of smiles,” and while it may be a cliché, it also happens to be quite true. On the whole, Thailand is a very welcoming, friendly country, particularly when you get outside the large tourist centers like Phuket and Bangkok. Also, Thailand is famous for its beautiful white sand beaches and stunning, clear blue seas, with over 2,000 miles of coastline and 8,000 tropical islands!
Packing List For Thailand:
- Passport – Ensure your passport is valid for at least a year and has plenty of blank pages. Also get a passport cover – they’re cheap, and will protect your passport from damage plus provide a handy place to stash tickets etc whilst in transit.
- Travel Insurance – Make sure you have travel insurance that covers your full range of activities e.g. scuba diving (World Nomads backpacker travel insurance is recommended by Lonely Planet amongst others and can be bought immediately online)
- Thai SIM card – it’s much cheaper to switch over to a Thai SIM card on your phone rather than use roaming from home. You can buy a Thai SIM card online with Klook and pick it up at the counter at the airport when you arrive in Thailand. Alternatively, you buy a SIM at one of the telecom shops at the airport or once you’re in the city.
- Do I Need A Visa For Thailand? – USA and Canada nationalities do NOT need a visa for Thailand – you simply arrive in Thailand and get a stamp that allows you to stay 30 days in Thailand. (This is technically known as a visa waiver stamp). See this official list for the full rundown of which nationalities do not require a visa to enter Thailand.
- Prescription Medicines – Have a full supply of any prescription medicines you require
- Credit Cards and Debit Cards – Have credit cards and a debit card that will work in international ATMs and won’t block you due to being accessed from Thailand.
Must-Have Items to Carry
- Whether you purchase them locally or bring them from home, you'll certainly want each of these essentials with you:
- Sunscreen: Prices for sunscreen often reflect the fact that locals rarely use it.
- Sunglasses: Sunglasses often get abused, so consider buying a cheap pair locally.
- Mosquito Repellent: Dengue fever is a serious problem throughout Thailand. The best defense is to protect yourself from bites. Mosquito coils can be purchased everywhere; burn them while sitting on your porch or balcony.
-Toilet Paper: You'll find it on tables in restaurants but not always in the bathrooms!
- Hand Sanitizer: Soap isn't a guarantee, even in nice restaurants. You'll certainly want some after your first squat toilet experience.
- Power Adapter: Most of the power outlets in Thailand are universal now; they accept both the US-style flat-pronged plugs as well as the rounded European-style power plugs. To ensure that you can connect everywhere, consider bringing a universal power adapter and check the voltage ratings (Thailand uses a 220-volt system) on your devices/chargers. Anything that relies on USB charging or has a dual-voltage transformer should be fine.
Clothing:
The casual outdoor clothes are highly recommended. A pair of comfortable walking shoes. Socks, pants, and underwear. An umbrella and waterproof coat will be strongly recommended because it often rains in Thailand. Bring clothes according to in which season you are traveling.
Bangkok, Thailand: Annual Weather Averages
April is the hottest month in Bangkok with an average temperature of 31°C (87°F) and the coldest is December at 26°C (79°F) with the most daily sunshine hours at 9 in December. The wettest month is September with an average of 220mm of rain. The best month to swim in the sea is in April when the average sea temperature is 30°C (86°F).
Phuket Thailand: Annual Weather Averages
March is the hottest month in Phuket with an average temperature of 29°C (83°F) and the coldest is January at 27°C (81°F) with the most daily sunshine hours at 9 in April. The wettest month is September with an average of 400mm of rain. The best month to swim in the sea is in April when the average sea temperature is 30°C (86°F).
Hotel Preferred Bedding Configuration
- Twin Room (two separate beds)
- Double Room (one bed)
*Requests are not guaranteed and are subject to each hotel's discretion and availability.
China is an exciting and thrilling tourist destination. There are a few key things you need to keep in mind when traveling in China.
Before Packing
Check the weather of your destination a week before your trip and get a sense of the clothes you'll need to pack. Determine the purpose of your trip and decide what to pack. Make a packing list and mark the number according to the importance. Leave keys, your contact information and a copy of your travel itinerary to family or friends.
China Picking List
We suggest travelers pack as light as possible. Pack smart ! Leave more space to make your tour comfortable and pleasant.
Essential Items
Passport, Visa, Insurance Policy and other necessary travel documents. Air, cruise or train tickets. A guide book or phrasebook with English. Map of places you are going to visit. Emergency card with your detailed contact information including full name, address, phone number. Credit card, Traveler's checks, and cash. First-aid kit. Your medical record and medicines like vitamins, Pepto Bismol and Imodium chew-able. Toiletries. Alarm clock or watch with an alarm. Pocket tissues. As most public bathrooms in China do not offer toilet paper, and you'll be glad that you have some when you need it.
Clothing/\Weather
The casual outdoor clothes are highly recommended. A pair of comfortable walking shoes. Socks, pants, and underwear. An umbrella and waterproof. Laundry bag. Bring clothes according to what season you are traveling.If you are going to board the Yangtze River Cruise on your trip, make sure to bring along one or two sets of smart causal dress for evening banquets.
Spring (Mar - May): Western suites, sports coats, jackets, sweater, long sleeve shirts. Summer (Jun - Aug): T-shirts, short sleeve shirts, skirts, sandals, caps, rain wear. Autumn (Sep - Nov): Western suits, jackets, sports coats, light woolen sweaters, rain wear. Winter (Dec - Feb): Down garment, overcoat, thick woolen sweaters, lined coats, cap, gloves and cotton-padded shoes.
Other Items/Electricity
Camera and batteries. Camcorder. Mobile phone. Chargers of your cell phone, digital camera, etc. The electricity used in China is 220 volt AC. Wash rooms in many middle and high-class hotels are equipped with transformer plugs for electric shavers and hair dryers. For safety purpose, preparing an adapter is a much better idea.
Currency Exchange
China's legal currency is Renminbi, shortened as CNY. Also known as Chinese Yuan. When you purchase small items such as bottle water, snacks, small souvenir, use cash is more convenient. We recommend you exchange Chinese cash at the front desk in the hotels you stay. 300 -500 CAD or USD /person is enough to start off. Airport is usually not a good place for exchanging money as the rate is not the best.
China Packing Tips
Make copies for all your necessary materials and keep the copied items separately from the original one. Store a backup of your information in your email account or on a USB thumb drive. Do not carry too much cash. Do not carry expensive jewelry and watches. Do not keep your credit card and identification card together. Do not pack excessive quantities of drugs as you may have problems at China Customs. Rolling your clothes together instead of folding them one by one to save space. Put the items you regularly use at the top of your carry on. Leave some room in your bags for gifts and souvenirs. Always put the valuables in the hotel safe and clear your safe when checking out.
Travel Safety & Security
China is relatively a safe country to travel around compared with some other countries.
Hotel Preferred Bedding Configuration
- Twin Room (two separate beds)
- Double Room (one bed)
*Requests are not guaranteed and are subject to each hotel's discretion and availability.
During The Tour
Never drink the tap water in the hotels. Never let the stranger come into your room. If someone is knocking at your door, never open the door until his identity is verified. If your passport is not needed, never carry it along with you all the time just in case. Keeping a photo copy of your passport is a wise choice. When hanging out in the bustling places like open markets and busy streets, be care of your belongings in case of theft, especially camera, purse, and so on. Avoid traveling alone since you are not familiar with the places. Ask the policemen or seniors for help in case you are lost and they would be of great help for you. Never return back to the hotel too late when you are alone. Always exchange money at the Bank of China or at the hotel counters. Never exchange money in the black market. Get small bills prepared before getting out since street vendors, taxi, restaurants, convenience stores only take RMB cash and major credit cards are widely accepted in big shopping malls.
China Washrooms
In China, most of the toilets are squatting ones. Clean sit-down toilets are commonly available in hotels. If you want to find a bathroom on the street, just look for the sign of "WC" Since paper tissue is rarely provided in a washroom, always carry yours.
What Vaccines Do I Need To Travel In China?
Based on personal medical history and advice from the Public Health Agency of Canada, the following vaccinations are recommended for travel to China:
- Japanese Encephalitis: This virus occurs in almost all Asian countries, including parts of China. Vaccination is recommended for those spending extended periods of time outside and in parts of southern China where irrigation is done through flooding.
- Rabies: Rabies is spread through the saliva or scratch of an infected animal. China has the one of the highest number of reported Rabies cases in the world, and vaccination is recommended for travel.
- Polio: Though the last Polio case was reported in China in 1994, the country borders Afghanistan and Pakistan, two countries where the virus is still an endemic. Ensure your vaccination is up-to-date.
- Hepatitis A: Hepatitis A is spread to humans through contaminated food and water or contact with an infected person. This shot is recommended especially if you plan to sample some of China’s many street food offerings
- Hepatitis B: Hepatitis B is a serious liver disease commonly spread through sexual intercourse, exchange of body fluids, use of an infected needle, or piercing tools.
“These conditions apply to all travel booked on or after August 22, 2024. For all travel booked prior to August 22, 2024, the applicable conditions are outlined on your invoice and booking confirmation email. ”
Your agreement with UTOvacation is subject to the terms and conditions outlined below.
Please read them careful prior to deciding whether to enter into this agreement. Do not hesitate to ask a UTOvacation staff member of any questions you may have in respect to these conditions before booking your travel. They are required to answer any questions you may arising from the information provided during the booking process and these terms and conditions. These terms and conditions can also be found on UTOvacation’s website at utovacation.com.
By booking your tour online with UTOvacation.com you acknowledge and agree to all terms and conditions herein.
Online Reservations
Step 1. Visit UTOvacation website: www.utovacation.com, login or register your account. (Learn how to book online Click Here)
Step 2. Choose your desired departure date and departure city
Step 3. Please identify and provide the contact information for the main passenger. All communication from UTOvacation will be sent to the main passenger only.
Step 4. Review the required documents page, provide the requested passport information for each traveller, and upload the requested passport information for each traveller.
Step 5. Read these terms and conditions and, if agreeable, indicate that you agree to abide by them.
Step 6. Make a deposit online. A Non-refundable, non-transferable payment is required to secure the space. The specific deposit amount is determined by the requirements specified on the product pages and the amount indicated during the enrollment process for each respective product.
Step 5. Finalize the booking.
Final Payment
Balance payment of any regular products or services is due 180 days prior to departure unless specified. If the full payment is not obtained by the due date, UTOvacation reserves the right to cancel such reservation and retain the pre-paid deposit to cover any expenses occurred.
Step 6. Trip Confirmation.
A final trip confirmation by email including day by day itinerary, hotel information, and flight information will be sent to the main contact passenger approximately one month before departure.
UTOvacation notice
Generally
If UTOvacation becomes aware of a change to any matter that might have affected your decision to purchase this travel, they will promptly advise you of this change.
Such notices may include doubt as to your tour meeting minimum attendant requirements thereby threatening cancellation or alteration of your tour. In either such circumstances UTOvacation will offer the customer the choice of a travel credit acceptable to you, comparable re-scheduled travel acceptable to you, or reimburse you the amounts paid to UTOvacation minus such amounts already received by you directly from or on behalf of the relevant travel supplier.
Specifically
If UTOvacation becomes aware of the following events, it will promptly notify you and offer you the choice of a full and immediate refund or comparable alternative travel acceptable to you:
1. Transportation that forms part of your travel is delayed or advanced by at least 24 hours, unless caused by mechanical problems, safety considerations, weather conditions, a strike or lockout, or force majeure.
2. A different cruise ship is substituted (if applicable)
3. An accommodation is changed, or the standard of the accommodation is changed.
4. The contract permits price increases by more than 7%, except any increase resulting from an increase in sales tax.
5. The documents needed for the trip have changed because of changed transportation routing and there is not enough time for you to obtain the documents before departure.
Travel Outside Canada
You will require your passport and, depending on your destination, a travel visa, to travel to your destination. The entry to a stopover country or your final destination may be refused if the required information and travel documents are incomplete or even if they are complete.
UTOvacation is not responsible in either circumstance for denial of entry to a country by their relevant officials.
Before entering into an agreement with a customer for travel services and taking payment, UTOvacation will advise you of the typical information and travel documents, such as passports, visas, affidavits, and notarized consent letters, that will be needed for each person whom travel services are being purchased. Please utilize the IATA as a resource - https://www.iatatravelcentre.com/passport-visa-health-travel-document-requirements.htm
The living standards and practices at your destination in respect to the provision of utilities, services, and accommodation may differ from those found in Canada.
Travel Visa
The following documents from the passenger are required if travel visa is applied through UTOvacation’s Visa Center:
• Original Passport (Make sure your actual passport must be valid at least 6 months beyond the date of your expected departure time)
• Recent passport size photo with white background. Please note, each countries requirement may differ, please check requirement click here
• Visa Application Form (Complete with signature and date)
*Remarks: If acquiring a visa on your own, the supporting documents will be provided from UTOvacation One Month prior to the trip departure date. Supporting documents requested early are subject to a $100 per person administration fee.
Visit the “IATA Travel Centre” for detailed information on country-specific passport, visa and health requirements: click here
Payment Info
Payment amounts and due date shall be outlined on your invoice. Kindly be advised that you will receive our emails before the set payment due dates. The first notice will be within two weeks following your initial deposit. The second notices will be 180 days before the tour departure date and will remind you to settle your 2nd deposit and final payment respectively for the tour package you have reserved. Please check your email regularly, including your junk box, to ensure you don’t miss a notice.
Please note: Your timely payment is important to guarantee your seat/cabin and ensure the overall tour package price. Your balance or final payment will NOT be charged automatically by UTOvacation.
Full or final payment is due 180 days before tour departure date. Travel documents, including but not limited to, a valid Passport copy shall be collected prior to booking.
Trip Cancellation and Eligible Refunds
UTOvacation Cancellations or Modifications
UTOvacation reserves the right to cancel or reschedule a tour prior to departure date. The travel provider may also be unable to provide the travel services you contracted for. In either such circumstances UTOvacation will offer the customer the choice of a travel credit acceptable to you, comparable re-scheduled travel acceptable to you, or reimburse you the amounts paid to UTOvacation minus such amounts already received by you directly from or on behalf of the relevant travel supplier.
Refunds may take up to 6 to 8 weeks to process but UTOvacation will make best efforts to provide a refund as soon as possible.
Please note, any refundable amount will not include fees associated with Travel Visas already been issued, any services that have already been delivered, or any incurred fees already charged by suppliers when such amounts will be returned directly to you from the supplier.
Customer Cancellations and Modifications
Subject to these terms and conditions, if a customer cancels their travel before or during their travel, any and all payments made to UTOvacation are non-refundable. This includes cancellation due to denial and/or rejected by relevant immigration and/or customs department, cruise port terminal officer, inability to obtain necessary visas and/or passports, or any other reason outside UTOvacation’s control, other than cancellation by a travel provider.
Cancellation or change requests must be confirmed in writing by email including your reservation number, full name and date of travel. Cancellations will only be accepted in writing.
No refund or reimbursement will be available to passengers who voluntarily forego meals, cruise, tours and/or accommodations for which they specifically paid for. A surcharge may apply should there be any additional fees occurred from services refused by the passengers.
Optional programs
In order to secure your spot and price for any of the early bird deals or promotional packages, a full payment or deposit may be required at UTOvacation’s discretion.
No Show- Sponsored Tour
If your travel is a sponsored tour and the sponsor requires that all passengers attend all the included activities during the trip, “No Show” fees will apply. Each and any no show in this instance will incur a penalty of $100 per person, per day. If the traveller does not attend daily activities, payment will be immediately collected for the day missed. This penalty applies no matter the cause (including illness, flight/cruise delays, quarantines, and etc). If passengers do not attend the activities or pay associated penalties for missing scheduled activities, the sponsoring associations will cancel remaining hotels and flights.
Liability
The customer shall hold UTOvacation harmless for all damages incurred and harm suffered as a result of actions or inaction of an another out of its control. Furthermore, should the traveller violate any local/provincial or national laws during their travels, UTOvacation is not responsible or liable for any damages or harm suffered.
No children under 2 years old
UTOvacation does not allow travel of children less than 2 years old.
Price Adjustments
You agreement permits price increases. After the booking is confirmed, if the total price and the cumulative increase, except any increase result from increase in sales tax, is more than 7%, the customer has the right to cancel the contract and obtain a full refund. You are responsible for paying for the increase if 1) the increase is less than 7% for reasons other than increase of sales tax, 2) the increase is more than 7% as a result from increase in sales tax, or 3) the increase is more than 7% for reasons other than increase in sales tax and you wish to proceed with the travel.
No price increases are permitted after you have paid UTOvacation in full
UTOvacation reserves the right to impose relevant fuel/inflation surcharge if Crude Oil Price Index or US/Canada Official CPI has increases by 4% or more between your booking date and tour departure date.
Tour Adjustments
UTOvacation retains the right to modify tours, if deemed in the best interest of its passengers, including in cases that involve the health and safety. UTOvacation will do its best to notify you of any such changes before your departure, or as soon as possible if you have already departed. If the adjustment is due to the supplier failing to provide travel services paid for by you at your desired time, UTOvacation will offer the customer the choice of a travel credit acceptable to you, comparable re-scheduled travel acceptable to you, or reimburse you the amounts paid to UTOvacation.
Travel Seat Arrangements
Seating/Cabin assignment
The customer understands and accepts that UTOvacation has no power to control the seating selection on the aircraft or cabin location on the cruise (unless where specified). All seating is arranged by the airline or cruise line. UTO vacation cannot help customer change pre-assigned seats/cabins.
Preferred Seat Upgrade: UTOvacation will not be responsible for any preferred seat upgrade on aircraft (except for business or first class seats). Some cruise packages allow the selection of cabins at the time of booking for an upgraded price; please refer to the product page for details.
Reservation Adjustments
Changes to an existing reservation by the passenger for whatever the cause, will incur a $100 per person charge plus any additional supplier fees. This includes name changes and removal of any
services such as optional tours and transfers. The deposit and/or full payment for any optional feature that is on an early bird or special sale promotion is non-refundable and non-transferable.
*Please note that name changes to airline or cruise line reservations are subject to full cancellation or re-booking. Replacing a travelling passenger or is subject the cancellation conditions outlined in these terms and conditions.
Changes or additional requests after departure are subject to local rates at the time of amendment and must be paid directly by the passenger to the service provider. UTOvacation will make its best effort to minimize these costs, however, all payment will be payable by request of the local service providers.
There are no refunds for unused services.
Travel Insurance
UTOvacation strongly recommends all tour members to purchase trip cancellation and health insurance at the time of booking, including health insurance. UTOvacation does not directly offer such insurance. The Travel Insurance recommended by UTOvacation are facilitated and owned by third party operators. Any Travel Insurance purchased by the passenger is governed by the third party and UTOvacation is not liable or responsible for said insurance.
Baggage
Each airline company has its own rules and regulations with the baggage weight, size, and number. The best way to find out the rules and regulations is to go visit the airline company official website.
Please note that for some destinations, baggage is not included in your package. Refer to your specific tour product page’s terms & conditions for specific baggage allowances.
Tour Fare Includes
Please refer to your tour itinerary for the most updated information.
Tour Fare Excludes
• Visa Application Fee
• Any personal charges, such as phone bills, laundry, postage, and baggage over-weight charge, insurance, beverages, water, etc
• Optional Tours
• Any other charges or incremental costs caused by the acts of God, Force Majeure, natural disasters, fires, weather, governmental and local authority’s order, political change, strikes, war, riots, quarantine, custom regulations, damages or inquiry caused by the accident beyond the responsibilities of UTOvacation or incurred due to the tourist action violating any law.
o If such events lead to the travel supplier failing to provide your travel services UTOvacation will offer you the choice of a travel credit acceptable to you, comparable re-scheduled travel acceptable to you, or reimburse you the amounts paid to UTOvacation
Flight Package Description
Silver Flight Package (Guaranteed maximum of one-stop/layover to your destination country gateway ). If your departure city has indirect flight(s) with only one stop/layover to connect your destination country gateway, we guarantee to provide you with flight with only one stop/layover to your destination country gateway if you select such package early enough before we issue the tickets. (Option and flight itinerary are subject to availability)
Gold Flight Package (Guaranteed non-stop flight to your destination country gateway )
If your departure city has regular direct flight(s) to connect your destination country gateway, we guarantee to provide you with a non-stop flight to your destination country gateway if you select
such package early enough before we issue the tickets. (Option and flight itinerary are subject to availability)
UTOvacation’s Affiliate Program
Customers who book via the Affiliate link may not switch tours or reschedule and apply the previous amount or percentage of discount/commission to future trips. Discounts that are offered are only applicable to initial tour purchase and non-transferable.
Please note, for customers who have booked via the Affiliate program, tour change fees will be applicable should you decide to reschedule originally purchased tours. Please refer to the terms and conditions on the Product Page.
UTOvacation’s Affiliate discounts/commissions are not redeemable for cash or future travel credit regardless of circumstances. The value of the Affiliate will be deducted from your final payment if applicable.
Please note, the Affiliate commission is only applicable to the initial purchase. Future additional purchases are not applicable to the Affiliate discount/Commission.
UTOvacation’s Assurance
UTOvacation"s Travel Assurance program enables passengers to be able to change participants’ name(s) or tour departure date one time for free without any administration fees up to 180 days prior to trip departure date.
• UTOvacation"s Travel Assurance Program must be purchased within 14 days of initial booking.
• UTOvacation"s Travel Assurance Program: reschedule/rebook up to 180 days before departure $ 99 - $ 399
• UTOvacation"s Travel Assurance Program: reschedule/rebook up to 120 days before departure $ 199 - $ 499
• UTOvacation"s Travel Assurance Program: reschedule/rebook up to 90 days before departure $ 299 - $ 599
• Please note, upon purchasing UTOvacation"s Travel Assurance program, you understand that this program is non-refundable and non-transferable.
Please note, when UTOvacation"s Travel Assurance program is purchased, payments made by the customer will first be applied to the UTOvacation"s Travel Assurance program and then to the remainder of the tour package.
Additional Conditions
During the tour or cruise, you will be considered have automatically abandoned your trip if you do not attend the pre-arranged tour or check in the prearranged hotel or cruise.
All the extra cost will be undertaken by the client voluntarily. UTOvacation reserves the right to abandon any clients if such clients violate the law or damage the interest of tour groups.
UTOvacation is not responsible for any denied Travel Visa application and will not be offering a refund of received by you.
If a child- 18 years old or younger- is travelling abroad with only one parent/guardian, children must carry a notarized consent letter signed by non-accompanying parent/guardian. If a child is travelling alone they children must carry a notarized consent letter signed by both parents/guardian. Such a consent letter may be requested by immigration authorities when entering or leaving from a foreign country or by North American officials when re-entering into USA or Canada. Failure of presenting such document may result in the rejection of boarding aircraft or vessel for the children concerned.
If a cruise line substitutes ships or changes its sailing by more than 24 hours, UTOvacation will advise you immediately and offer your choice of a full and immediate refund or a comparable alternate travel service acceptable to you. UTOvacation will not do so for scheduling alterations over 24 hours, if they are the result of mechanical problems with the ship, safety considerations, weather conditions, a strike or lock-out, or force majeure.
The credits in the Affiliate Program cannot be combined with any other promotions or coupons and redeemed in the same booking.
Any promotional coupons cannot be applied to any extra items including but not limited to visa service fees, gratuities, sightseeing, admission ticket fares, meal plans, single supplement charges, airport transfers, travel insurance, any taxes/surcharges and optional tours.
UTOvacation reserves the right to cancel or modify a tour any time prior to departure date if the group has less than ten passengers, subject to these terms and conditions.
All upgrade packages are 100% non-refundable, items including flight package, hotel, cruise cabin, meal package and etc.
UTOvacation usually sends out important notifications including but not limited to destination health protocols, travel industry policies, tour updates and safety alerts to our agents/customers by newsletter through email. UTOvacation is not responsible for trip delay, service cancellation, price increase or any other types of loss caused by unsubscribing from our email list, wrong email address or a lack of checking email box/spam folder/junk folder on a regular basis. If you have not received our newsletter for a long time, make sure your email address is effective/valid and you are on our email list or contact us immediately at [email protected] for assistance.
Dispute Penalty
Please note, if a customer requires cancellation of a product or service, kindly reach out to UTOvcation customer service. If a customer files a dispute/chargeback directly with their bank, the order will be automatically canceled and suspended in your account. If a customer wishes to reinstate their purchase or credit, they must pay a disputed penalty of $299 per transaction if the total payment amount exceeds $299; 50% of the total invoice amount if the amount is less than
$299; all dispute penalties are per transaction. Chargeback fees, transaction fees, administration expenses, marketing/acquisition costs, and operations charges are all part of the disputed penalty. After you have reinstated your order and paid the disputed penalty, you will receive the travel credit. The travel credit can be used to book the same or different tours on our website. You will not be reinstated to your original order, and the amount you paid for that excursion will not be guaranteed.
Ensuring Secure Payments
Safeguarding your payment(s) is our top priority. In order to prevent fraud, we ask our customers to settle payment(s) through your account on UTOvacation official website at www.utovacation.com. Should you choose offline payment submission, Cheque/Money order/Bank draft/Credit card (with credit card authorization form filled out and signed) are accepted and the payee must be UTOvacation. Please be advised that UTOvacation has never been allowing Bank transfer/Email transfer for transactions and Cash is not recommended. If you find something suspicious regarding your payment, please call 1-855.526.1286 before any further actions.
Tipping
For the on-tour convenience of some itineraries, we will collect all gratuities which is to be shared by our local team. This may include tour leaders, guides, drivers, baggage porters, airport coordinators, restaurant waiters for all included meals and other staff in the team behind the scenes.
These gratuities are not mandatory but are appreciated as recognition for excellent service and we thank you for your encouragement and generosity.
Shopping
Although we would be happy to assist your shopping needs, UTOvacation would not be responsible for price, quality, and service of any goods purchased during the tour.
Special Notes for Middle Eastern packages:
Please be advised that traveling in the Middle East requires open-mind and willingness to respect the local culture, religion and tradition.
1. It is highly recommended that women wear tops covering shoulders and skirts falling below the knee in public. Knee-length shorts are allowed for men. It is customary for women to cover their shoulders and hair and men to have shirts and long pants when visiting a mosque or temple. More conservative dress is expected during the Ramadan or Jewish holiday period.
2. Non-Muslims above the age of 21 are only allowed to consume alcohol in licensed hotels,
clubs and restaurants, never in public open areas.
3. Taking photographs of individuals, especially females, needs a permission first. Do not take any pictures with military facilities, borders and airports.
4. Horse carts and camel rides at tourist sites are mostly not included in the entrance fees. We suggest that you negotiate ride fare and tips with the merchant beforehand in order to avoid any unexpected situation at the end of the ride. Keep the exact change in local currency handy.
5. Ramadan is the holy month for the Islamic world and all Muslims have to fast from dawn to dusk without eating, drinking or smoking. Alcohol is available in licensed bars and restaurants after sunset for non-Muslims. Tourist hotels usually keep one restaurant open during the day catering to resident guests. Also during Ramadan month, live performance, certain music and dancing are prohibited. Shops are open after sunset.
6. Most hotels and restaurants provide kosher foods with no pork or shellfish in Israel.
7. Shabbat is the Jewish holy-day and day of rest of the week. It starts on every Friday after sunset and ends on Saturday evening. Offices, public transportation (except for taxi), private businesses are closed (i.e., stores and restaurants) and reopen after the Shabbat.
Specific requirements for cruise passengers
*Guests are not allowed to sail if entering the 24th week of pregnancy before or any time during cruising. A physician’s “Fit to cruise” note is required if a customer is pregnant 23 weeks or less at the time of debarkation. Please keep in mind that not every vessel has a doctor/nurse or facilities/equipment to accommodate the special need. Please be advised to also check with the insurance company for pregnancy-related care.
*Infants must be at least 6 months of age at the time of embarkation for any itineraries under 7 nights and 12 months of age for any itineraries more than 8 nights.
*Passengers above the age of 21 are permitted to cruise alone. Anyone under such age should get onboard and share a cabin with a parent or legal guardian with a proof. Such clients are forbidden to attend any gambling activities or consume any alcohol beverages. Parent(s) or legal guardian(s) shall be in full responsibility for the minors regarding their conducts and behaviors subject to the terms and conditions of cruise lines.
*Each traveler above the age of 80 shall represent and warrant that he/she is physically fit to
travel on the voyage. Contact the cruise line of any existing physical health issues or any other conditions you may require medical attention/special care during the whole journey.
*We request all travelers to provide the accurate information for cruise reservation including name, age, gender, tour dates, nationality, passport number etc. Any change of the above will result in a one time $150USD/$200CAD penalty/surcharge per change within 110 days prior to the sailing. All name changes within the same stateroom will result in applicable cancellation.
*Gender X or any other identifications other than M or F might be prevented from going through the security checkpoint at the pier.
*When boarding, all passengers must be responsible for presenting passports valid for at least 6 months upon the end of the international travel date as well as any necessary immunizations and visas required for cruise itinerary. EVUS must be updated in a timely manner and we also strongly encourage our customers to visit the government foreign affairs website for any up to date travel advisories and safety recommendations.
*UTOvacation highly recommends guests to obtain travel/health insurance against any possible or potential issues related to any emergencies, delays, interruptions, cancellations or losses.
Any one who violates the above regulations or fails to provide the required travel documents will be denied for boarding the vessel at any time. UTOvacation shall not be entitled to have any further liability or offer any remedy whatsoever in this circumstance.
UTOvacation strongly recommends that you purchase travel insurance for any future travel plans.
We have curated two reputable partners one in the USA and one for Canada. Once you have made your trip selection, please select the option of purchasing travel insurance.
For USA patrons, in order to qualify for the “Cancel For Any Reason” Option offered by John Hancock, you will need to purchase your insurance within 14 days of your initial deposit. Other insurance policies may be purchased later.
Please note, the travel insurance that is available for purchase is with our affiliate partners and not a direct product or offering of UTOvacation. For any questions or concerns, please contact the vendor directly.
American Travel Insurance (click for more details)
Canadian Travel Insurance (click for more details)