FAQs
ASIAN GEOGRAPHICAL
The Asian Geographical Expeditions offers tailor-made package holidays and pre-planned and pre-scheduled small group holidays. Asian Geographical Partners Ltd and its subsidiaries exist to support the Asian Geographical Society.
DOES THE TOUR COST INCLUDE FLIGHTS?
All prices exclude international flights, except where indicated. This allows travellers to benefit from the best prices at the time of booking, taking advantage of major seasonal variations and short-term special offers. If you wish, we can arrange to book your flights and create a package holiday which will be protected under our ATOL licence.
WHAT DOES THE TOUR COST GENERALLY INCLUDE?
For Asian Geographical Expeditions, the cost typically covers accommodations, some meals and excursions as detailed in the itinerary; services of the Asian Geographical expert and/or local guide; ground transportation; most transfers; baggage handling; and gratuities (excluding those for the ship or train crew, where applicable, unless otherwise noted in the itinerary). Included meals are denoted at the end of each day on our itineraries with a B for breakfast, L for lunch, and D for dinner.
For Group holidays with our associated travel operators, the cost may include accommodations, most meals and excursions as specified in the itinerary; services of a group manager and/or local guide; ground transportation; most transfers; and baggage handling. Included meals are marked at the end of each day on our itineraries with a B for breakfast, L for lunch, and D for dinner.
WHAT DOES THE TOUR COST GENERALLY NOT INCLUDE?
The tour cost generally excludes air transportation and related fees (except as indicated in the itinerary); activities noted as optional in the itinerary; gratuities for train or ship's crew, unless otherwise mentioned on the itinerary page; passport, visa, and permit expenses; medical expenses and immunisations; baggage/accident/cancellation insurance; personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, and alcoholic beverages; and any other items not explicitly stated as included.
DO YOU OFFER SHARED ACCOMMODATION FOR SINGLE TRAVELLERS?
Most hotels worldwide charge a flat rate for single or double occupancy rooms because the cost of maintaining a room for one person can be almost as high as for two. Additionally, many single occupancy rooms are identical to twin/double rooms. Asian Geographical will assist individuals requesting a roommate. Participants will be notified if a suitable roommate is available, in which case a single rate for the room will be charged.
WHAT IS THE SIZE OF THE GROUP TOUR?
The average group size for our Expeditions ranges between 16 and 24 persons (Family Expeditions average 18 persons). This allows you to get to know your local tour leader and fellow travellers, and enables us to take you to sights and arrange experiences that are unsuitable for larger groups. Each of our groups is led by experienced local experts or guides. Family Expeditions may have more than one guide to ensure the safety of children.
WHAT IF AN EXPEDITION DOES NOT REACH ITS MINIMUM NUMBERS? WILL IT BE CANCELLED?
We will not cancel your travel arrangements less than 60 days before your departure date (90 days for a cruise holiday), except for reasons of unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances or failure by you to pay the final balance. We may cancel your holiday before this date if, for example, the minimum number of clients required for a particular travel arrangement is not reached. If your holiday is cancelled, you can either receive a refund of all monies paid or accept an offer of alternative travel arrangements of comparable standard from us if available (we will refund any price difference if the alternative is of lower value).
WHAT KIND OF PACE SHOULD I EXPECT ON TOUR?
Our itineraries are designed to include full, active days with plenty of opportunities to experience each place from an insider's perspective, whether that means encountering wildlife, learning about different cultures and environments, or sharing in local traditions. Pace and physical activity level vary by trip and travel style. On Asian Geographical Expeditions, we offer alternative activities when possible. Asian Geographical Expeditions may include activities like hiking, kayaking, or horse riding, with designated activity levels ranging from easy to ultimate challenge, and travellers always have the choice to rest a day.
For more information about the pace of a specific tour, see the tour itinerary. Where applicable, we have added additional notes about the activity level or physical requirements in a "What to Expect" section on the trip itinerary page. If you are uncertain about the level of activity of a particular itinerary, please call us at 020 8350 6199.
HOW MUCH FLEXIBILITY IS THERE IN THE ITINERARY?
In all our Asian Geographical Expeditions, we have incorporated options and free time where possible so that you can experience a place and its people in a way that is meaningful to you. By their nature, some tour types offer more flexibility and free time. For instance, Asian Geographical Expeditions balance guided tours and planned activities with time to explore on your own, while some Expeditions have more free time and options built into most days, allowing you to choose the kind of activity you prefer or what local sites are most interesting to you. We can assist you with the activities you want to take, but if you are interested in exploring further, many of our expeditions offer pre- or post-trip extensions.
DO I NEED TO PURCHASE TRIP INSURANCE?
Yes. We strongly recommend that you have insurance coverage that is adequate and suitable for your specific needs. Travel insurance can offer financial protection for trip cancellation and interruption, as well as assistance should you encounter travel delays, baggage loss, or cancellations. Furthermore, it can provide support if you require medical or any other form of assistance or medical treatment while travelling. If you fail to take out insurance and have to cancel your booking, you will be charged in accordance with our normal terms and conditions – Cancelling your holiday. Please read your policy details carefully and take them with you on your trip.
WHAT DO I NEED TO BRING ON MY EXPEDITION?
On an Asian Geographical Expedition, the dress code is typically casual, so we recommend that you pack clothes that are comfortable and well suited to the activities and climate specific to your expedition. Prior to your trip, we will provide you with packing tips and suggestions, as well as information regarding any baggage weight restrictions. Travellers on our Expeditions usually take a set of smart casuals.
WHAT DOCUMENTS CAN I EXPECT TO RECEIVE ONCE I BOOK MY TRIP?
Upon booking an Asian Geographical Expedition, you will receive several pre-trip mailings containing specific information about your destination, packing suggestions, and other relevant details to help you prepare for your journey. The additional materials you receive will depend on the trip you have chosen.
When booking online, a reference number will be generated. Please use this reference when speaking with our Asian Geographical team. After paying the full balance of your holiday, you will receive a confirmation invoice sent to the email address you provided during booking.
WHAT IF I NEED TO CHANGE OR AMEND MY BOOKING?
If you identify any necessary amendments, please contact us immediately at 020 8350 6199 to inform us. We will strive to rectify the issue for you. Occasionally, our suppliers charge us for alterations to reservations, and in such cases, we may need to pass these charges on to you.
WHAT IF I NEED TO CANCEL MY BOOKING?
All cancellation notices must be submitted in writing and will be considered effective from the date of the postmark. If you or any other member of your party decides to cancel your confirmed booking 90 days or more before departure, you will receive a refund of the amount paid, minus the deposit and non-refundable items. Cancellation charges are as follows: 89-57 days before departure, 60% of the tour cost; 56-43 days before departure, 75% of the tour cost; 42-15 days before departure, 85% of the tour cost; and 14 days or less before departure, 100% of the tour cost. This policy also applies to pre- and post-Expedition and extra arrangements confirmed on any participant's behalf.
You can read more about changes and cancellation here: Terms and Conditions.