What are the tipping guidelines for this trip? While conventions can vary from country to country, tipping is customary in Europe. A general rule is 10% of the bill for wait staff, and a smaller amount (€1 or €2) for other service providers.
Tipping is an expected - though not compulsory - component of your tour program, and an expression of satisfaction with the persons who have assisted you on your tour. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. There are several times during the trip where there is opportunity to tip the local guides. You may do this individually, or your National Geographic Expedition Leader will offer to collect the money and tip as a group. Recommendations for tipping local guides would range from €3-5 per day, depending on the quality and length of the service; ask your National Geographic Expedition Leader for specific recommendations based on the circumstances and culture.
At the end of each trip, if you felt your National Geographic Expedition Leader did an outstanding job, tipping is expected and appreciated. The precise amount is a personal preference, however €8-€10 per person, per day can be used as a guideline.
What should I consider when planning my personal expenses and discretionary spending for this itinerary? Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.
What activities are optional on this trip? Lisbon
- Rossio Square (Free)
- Sao Jorge Castle (15EUR per person)
- Santa Justa Lift (6EUR per person)
- Alfama District Visit (Free)
Évora
- Clock Museum
- Évora Cathedral
Porto
- Ribeira Square (Free)
- Sao Bento Railway Station (Free)
- Lello Bookstore (8EUR per person)
- Palacio da Bolsa (12EUR per person)
What are the meals like on this trip? Eating is a big part of traveling. G Adventures understands the importance of breakfast to start your day, we strive to include a basic breakfast wherever possible. A typical breakfast may include toast, coffee and tea, however this may vary depending on the city. Should breakfast not be included, your National Geographic Expedition Leader can suggest some local options.
Travelling with G Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally food is cheap. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your Expedition Leader will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip.
For all trips please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets.
Is there an extra cost for travelling solo? We believe solo travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and solo travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.
If I choose to purchase My Own Room, are there any exceptions during the trip? Please note that if you have booked the "My Own Room" option for this tour, you will receive your own single room for all night stops.
Please be aware that single room accommodations in European hotels are often smaller, and may not be to the same service level as double-occupancy rooms.