GEORGIA Savannah & The Golden Isles A Prototype Guided Walking Adventure
Table of Contents Daily Itinerary... 4 Tour Itinerary Overview... 11 Tour Facts at a Glance... 13 Traveling To and From Your Tour... 15 Information & Policies... 16 The United States at a Glance... 18 Packing List... 22 800.464.9255 / countrywalkers.com 2 2017 Otago, LLC dba Country Walkers
Travel Style This small-group Guided Walking Adventure offers an authentic travel experience, one that takes you away from the crowds and deep into the fabric of local life. On it, you ll enjoy 24/7 expert guides, premium accommodations, delicious meals, effortless transportation, and local wine or beer with dinner. Rest assured that every trip detail has been anticipated so you re free to enjoy an adventure that exceeds your expectations. Overview Few destinations showcase a rich past, aristocratic splendor, and magnificent natural beauty as seamlessly as Georgia s Golden Isles and their historic gateway, Savannah. Join Country Walkers as we traverse the scenic walking trails of these spectacular barrier islands, once the playground to 19 th -century kings of industry and today a haven of unspoiled wilderness. Stroll under canopies of stately trees dripping with Spanish moss. Follow pristine beaches as gentle waves lap at your feet. And explore coastal forests that point the way to vestiges of history that reach back to the Civil War. Our Southern tapestry takes you from the graceful squares of Savannah lined with restored Victorian gems to wildlife preserves, from the majestic ruins of palatial estates to exclusive island resorts. Easy trails make your exploration a true pleasure. And every invigorating step you take is buoyed by famously gracious hospitality and nourished by delectable low country cuisine. 800.464.9255 3 countrywalkers.com
Daily Itinerary DAY 1 Savannah; 2-3 miles, easy. Bonaventure Sculpture Garden & Wormsloe Plantation; 3.4 miles, easy Often heralded as America s best walking city, Savannah is a gracious and atmospheric cultural center with a small-town feel. Its National Historical Landmark District is an open-air museum of colonial and Victorian buildings rich in antebellum charm. After meeting your fellow travel companions and guides, you set off to explore on foot with a local city guide. Laid out in 1733, this was the first planned city in the nation. Of the 24 neat, leafy, single-acre squares integral to British General James Oglethorpe s designs, 21 remain. The city, set on the Savannah River, was considered so beautiful that during the Civil War, Abraham Lincoln demanded that General William Sherman spare it from flames during his famed march to the sea. You will be grateful for Lincoln s discretion as you stroll with your guide. After lunch at Savannah s famed Olde Pink House, set in an historic 1771 building, transfer to the Bonaventura Cemetery & Sculpture Garden. Long a local landmark beloved for its old towering trees dripping with Spanish moss and its peaceful location on the river, this historic resting place gained notoriety with the publication in 1994 of John Berendt s Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. Famously, Savannah s native son and lyricist Johnny Mercer is entombed here. You have time to explore its park-like environment before 800.464.9255 4 countrywalkers.com
continuing to Wormsloe Plantation, the preserved ruins of a grand estate owned by one of Georgia s colonial founders, Noble Jones. In this picturesque setting, ponder the house s remains and enjoy your choice of walk with a guide or on your own. Perhaps take a woodland walk or a stroll along the forest s edge on a trail that affords breathtaking views of the Isle of Hope. Back in Savannah, freshen up at your hotel before dinner at Vic s on the River, set in an old cotton warehouse on the city s renowned River Street. In this historic building, savor a sophisticated twist on traditional Southern cuisine, from bisque and fried green tomatoes to French-influenced bouillabaise and Louisiana-style po boys. Andaz Hotel, Savannah Sophisticated and modern, the Andaz Savannah is a stylish haven on the edge of the historic district. This artfully decorated hotel is just a few blocks from River Street, the bustling shopping avenue along the Savannah River, and set right on Ellis Square, a lively urban square of fountains and a life-sized chess set. Relax on the outdoor pool terrace and enjoy a handcrafted cocktail before settling in to your room graced with fine linens, a walk-in shower and a balcony overlooking historic Savannah. DAY 2 Fort Pulaski; 2-3 miles, easy. Transfer to Little St. Simons Island After breakfast, you transfer to Fort Pulaski on Cockspur Island. This historic fort was built on the order of President James Madison after the War of 1812 as part of a series of edifices to protect Atlantic shores. After Georgia seceded from the Union, Confederate armies moved in. The fort was surrendered back to the Union in 1862. You walk along the Lighthouse Overlook Trail, passing open marsh and pastoral forest of cabbage palms and red cedars with sweeping views of the Savannah River, the distant Tybee Island, and the historic Cockspur Island Lighthouse. Back at the fort, you follow the loop trail that traces the historic dike system. Designed by Lieutenant Robert E. Lee fresh out of West Point, this intricate network of water management controlled the tides and drainage as the fort was being built. Still today, the twelve-foot walls keep the 800.464.9255 5 countrywalkers.com
tidal river at bay. As you walk the perimeter of the walls, admire open views of South Channel, McQueens Island and the Savannah River. Continue to St. Simons Island, where you embark a ferry for a ten-minute ride to Little St. Simons, a scenic, privately owned barrier island among Georgia s picturesque Golden Isles. These five islands were named as much for the light that bathes their shores and coffee-colored dunes as for the wealth brought to them by 19th-century titans of industry such as the Astors and the Vanderbilts. Little St. Simons, spreading for 10,000 acres, is one of the least developed and is only accessible by boat. The unspoiled paradise is traversed by some 20 miles of walking trails and seven miles of beach. You arrive by late afternoon, in time to explore the grounds and settle into your room before a wine and cheese reception at the lodge. This evening, sit around a communal table in true southern style for a delicious family-style dinner. Low country cuisine, after all, is best shared, whether fried chicken, peppery stews or red rice with beans. The trained chef at the lodge uses produce, herbs and flowers from the island s organic garden and locally sourced vegetables, cheeses, meats, and seafood from farms and fish markets on the mainland. After an unforgettable gastronomic experience, your resident naturalist may offer an optional night-time walk in search of owls or turtles. The Lodge on Little St. Simons Island, Little St. Simons Island The only lodging on Little St. Simons Island, your accommodations comprise Adirondack-style cabins with a charming and rustic touch, several of which date to the early 1900s. While simple, all cabins and rooms offer private bathrooms and air conditioning. Secluded and tranquil, the lodge is set among moss-draped trees and enjoys quick access to undeveloped beaches and invigorating walking trails. Onsite naturalists are available to lead nature walks through the ancient maritime forest, kayak expeditions, bicycle rides and bird-watching hikes. Note that Country Walkers will share the lodge with others; all of our activities, therefore, may not be exclusive. DAY 3 Little St. Simons Island; 3-5 miles, easy. Optional kayaking, biking, skiffexploration, or fishing Enjoy today exploring Little St. Simons Island, perhaps beginning with a prebreakfast birding walk. Recognized by the American Bird Conservancy as an Important Birding Area, the island is on the Atlantic Migratory Flyway and hosts some 330 full- and part-time species, from bald eagles to roseate spoonbills. The unspoiled woodland and undeveloped beaches also lure a number of endangered 800.464.9255 6 countrywalkers.com
species. Your naturalist will point out winged residents as you walk beneath a canopy of birdsong. After breakfast, follow a quiet dirt road through dense forest hanging with Spanish moss to the beach. Watch for armadillos, deer, and birds as you walk through a thickly wooded area before the trail narrows and emerges onto an estuary. Here, pause to observe some of the wildlife which makes this area their home, perhaps spotting great blue herons and turtles. As you approach the beach, the dirt road turns to a sandy trail and then a boardwalk. Amidst the shore s tranquility, a bustle of activity unfolds on the sands and in the water, which you ll learn about as your naturalist guide describes this very active ecosystem. Armies of shorebirds and a carpet of seashells accompany you during your stroll as gentle waves lap at your feet. After free time to comb the beach, savor a picnic complete with a cold beer. On cool days, return to the lodge for a family-style meal of salads, soup, and perhaps crab cakes made fresh by the chef. After lunch, you spend the afternoon as you wish. Join a naturalist for a fishing expedition or head out on a Jeep safari to one of the island s estuaries, marshes, or rivers. Bicycle along the beach or on one of the many island trails. After a quick orientation, take out a skiff or kayak to explore the tidal waterways. Or follow more of the island s footpaths with your guide. The lodge also offers cozy outdoor and indoor sitting areas, perfect for relaxing with a good book. This evening, share stories of your rewarding day at a wine and cheese reception and over dinner at the lodge. The Lodge on Little St. Simons Island, Little St. Simons Island DAY 4 Little St. Simons Island; 2-3 miles, easy or kayak excursion. Transfer to Jekyll Island After breakfast, you have your choice of exploration. Join a guided kayak paddle through the peaceful tidal waterways that thread their way through the island. As you explore, your naturalist guide reveals the secrets of this vibrant ecosystem. Alternately, take a short ride in the open-back trucks to the northern part of the island for a walk in search of alligators, herons, and other native wildlife; elevated platforms provide views over the ponds and marshes. Return to the lodge for one final family-style, home cooked meal. 800.464.9255 7 countrywalkers.com
You leave Little St. Simons Island behind today and transfer to Jekyll Island, another of Georgia s Golden Isles. Long a seasonal source of food among indigenous people, some of the island came under private ownership during colonial days. Among the vacation homes built here by wealthy businessmen at the turn of the 20th century are structures made of tabby concrete, a material made from crushed oyster shells. Upon arrival at your hotel, a restored compound of those vacation homes, you may take a dip in the swimming pool, relax on the gracious porch, or take a complimentary shuttle to the beach. Its long stretch of white sand is a pleasure to stroll. This evening, you may dine at your choice of venues: the hotel s formal restaurant, a more casual setting on the pier featuring fresh seafood, or a restaurant along the beach to which you can board a shuttle. Jekyll Island Club Hotel, Jekyll Island A member of the Historic Hotels of America and the centerpiece of Jekyll Island s historic district, the Queen Anne-style Jekyll Island Club recalls the grand days of the Industrial Age when elite businessmen built their cottages far from city life. Gracious and sprawling and recognizable by its iconic Victorian turret, rich history blends with modern comfort on lush grounds. At the island s only 4-star resort, dine in the grand dining room or on the casual pier. Your warm and comfortable room in the main building offers all the amenities and convenience you could need. DAY 5 Cumberland Island National Seashore; 3-5 miles, easy with a longer, more moderate option After an early breakfast, you shuttle to St. Marys and embark a ferry to Cumberland Island, the largest and perhaps most spellbinding of the Golden Isles. Once home to steel baron Thomas Carnegie, this 35-square-mile haven today plays host to wild horses, sea turtles and more than 300 bird species among pristine maritime forests, unspoiled beaches, sweeping dunes, and vast marshes. More than 90% of its land is protected, making it a paradise for walkers. Upon arrival, you trace the island s footpaths through coastal woodlands to the Carnegie ruins and estate, a once-grand house boasting a 800.464.9255 8 countrywalkers.com
history tied to James Oglethorpe, founder of the colony of Georgia, the family of Robert E. Lee, and the youngest of the Carnegie brothers, Thomas. All that remains of Dungeness is a majestic and eerie skeleton of a sprawling mansion. Exploring this sight, it s easy to imagine the resplendent house that stood here as the epitome of Southern glory. Its chimneys tower like bookends propping up the still formidable two-story structure of the once-stately Queen Anne building. After time to explore, follow a trail to the nearby beach and pause for a delicious picnic lunch. You may return to the ferry landing by foot on the same easy path that brought you here. Or walk the beach for a longer, more moderate option and pick up the trail down the coast a ways. This evening, gather together for your final celebratory meal in the hotel s private dining room overlooking the pool and marina. Jekyll Island Club Hotel, Jekyll Island DAY 6 Jekyll Island Driftwood Beach; 2 miles, easy. Transfer to Savannah Awake this morning to a final breakfast and the option for one more invigorating walk. You stroll a bike path to the island s scenic Driftwood Beach. Located on the northern tip of Jekyll Island, its sands are dotted with starkly beautiful barren trees and exposed roots left behind by beach erosion. Enjoy time pondering this scene and wandering among the scarred, wind-sculpted arboreal beachscape before returning to the hotel for your departure to the Savannah airport. 800.464.9255 9 countrywalkers.com
ITINERARY CHANGES Please bear in mind that this is a typical itinerary, and the actual activities, sites, and accommodations may vary due to season, special events, weather, or transportation schedules. We reserve the right to alter the itinerary, since tour arrangements are made up to a year in advance and unforeseen circumstances may arise that mandate change. Itinerary changes are made to improve the tour and your experience. PROTOTYPE TOUR INFORMATION As a reminder, this is a Prototype Tour and the itinerary is being operated with a group for the first time. Although extensive research and development have taken place, certain logistics may need to be altered and fine-tuned along the way. We ask that you join with a sense of adventure and flexibility. Your reviews are very important to us, and we do require that each guest complete a short daily evaluation to be collected at the end of the tour by the Country Walkers representative. Thank you for joining this maiden voyage we appreciate your input, opinions, and sense of adventure! SUSTAINABLE TRAVEL Country Walkers is a leader in active travel with responsible tourism an integral part of our core values. Our tours reflect our dedication to best travel practices and to the preservation of indigenous cultures and the environment. Country Walkers has made a donation on behalf of every traveler to the CW Travelers Fund, which supports designated projects in the communities and habitats in which we travel. We invite you to learn more about our efforts and initiatives for giving back. 800.464.9255 10 countrywalkers.com
Tour Itinerary Overview TOUR MEETING POINT AND TIME Andaz Hotel (lobby), Savannah, GA, 9:00 a.m. DAY 1 Andaz Hotel Savannah, GA Tel 912 233 2116 Savannah.andaz.hyatt.com Wireless Internet, hair dryers, and laundry service available. DAY 2 & 3 The Lodge on Little St. Simons Island Little Simons Island, GA Tel 888 733 5774 Email lodge@littlessi.com www.littlestsimonsisland.com Wireless Internet, hair dryers, and laundry service available. DAY 4 & 5 Jekyll Island Club Hotel Jekyll Island, GA Tel 855 535 9547 Email mail@jekyllclub.com www.jekyllclub.com Wireless Internet, hair dryers, and laundry service available. TOUR DEPARTURE POINT AND TIME Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) or the Andaz Hotel, Savannah, GA 10:00 and 10:30 a.m. 800.464.9255 11 countrywalkers.com
TRAVEL DELAY AND EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE If you are delayed while traveling, or experience any unforeseen situation en route to your tour, assistance is only a few, easy steps away: As a Country Walkers guest, you benefit from 24-hour, toll free access to One Call Emergency Hotline and Travel Assistance. Call the numbers below from anywhere in the world to get immediate assistance (regarding everything from lost luggage, to missed connections, to health concerns or notifying your guides or our local partners of a delayed arrival). To contact One Call, please use one of the following methods: By Email: mail@oncallinternational.com By Text: 603.945.0103 By Phone: If calling from within the USA: 800.555.9095 If calling from outside the USA: 800.555.9095 or 603.894.4710 When calling from outside the USA, you will need to dial the access code for the country you are calling from (a complete list of access codes, provided by AT&T, can be found on the Country Walkers website under Travel Planning and Travel Resources: AT&T International Access Codes. If you receive an automated response, when prompted, you can then enter either of the numbers above; One Call accepts collect calls 24/7. In the unlikely event you are unable to connect by phone with One Call, or the region you are calling from does not have an access code, you should speak with a live international operator and ask them to place a collect call to 800.555.9095 or 603.894.4710. Should there be any problems placing a collect call (as is occasionally the case depending on the country), dial, email, or text One Call directly and ask them to return your call immediately to minimize any out of pocket costs. 800.464.9255 12 countrywalkers.com
Tour Facts at a Glance TOUR LENGTH Tour Only: 6 Days, 5 Nights PROTOTYPE DEPARTURE DATE January 21 st January 26 th 2018 TOUR PRICE $3,148 (Single + $948) *Please call for additional savings ACTIVITY LEVEL This tour is one of our Guided Walking Adventures, rated easy with an occasional moderate option, including an average of 3 to 6 miles walking per day. Your walks will feature mostly flat terrain, including trails along the coast, on sandy beaches, and on city streets. Trails can be uneven with roots. The days on this tour allow for inclusions of cultural and historical importance. SPECIFICS TO NOTE» This tour includes four short ferry transfers through calm water.» Hiking boots with a thick and sturdy tread and ankle support are required and walking sticks are recommended even if you do not usually use them.» On Little St. Simon s island please know that you will be joining the lodge s naturalist s guides for excursions on the island. As these walks are run by the lodge, other hotel guests are able to join and will walk with you for these portions of the tour. TOUR ONLY INCLUSIONS» Two expert, local guides (for groups of 8 or more), with you 24/7» All meals except for one dinner; wine or beer included with dinners» All accommodations while on tour» Transportation from the meeting point to the departure point» Entrance fees and special events as noted in the itinerary 800.464.9255 13 countrywalkers.com
» Destination information (weather, visa requirements, etc.) and other travel assistance available 24/7 provided by One Call International» The unbeatable and cumulative experience of the Country Walkers staff GRATUITIES Gratuities for all hotels, meals, and services that are included in your tour price will be paid by Country Walkers. Should you wish to tip your Country Walkers guide(s), the standard in the industry ranges from $10 to $15 per person, per guide, per day (or $20 to $30 per couple, per guide, per day), and can be paid in USD or local currency. Gratuities for your bus driver are included in the tour price, but additional tips are always welcome. Should you be joining the Rocky Mountaineer extension, a tip of approximately $28-$30 USD per person for the two days is recommended for the on train host and team. 800.464.9255 14 countrywalkers.com
Traveling To and From Your Tour TOUR MEETING POINT AND TIME Andaz Hotel (lobby), Savannah, GA, 9:00 a.m. Your guide(s) will be wearing a Country Walkers shirt. Please be dressed for walking. MOST CONVENIENT AIRPORT Savannah s International Airport (SAV) is the most convenient airport savannahairport.com GETTING TO THE MEETING POINT A taxi from the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport to the Andaz Hotel costs approximately $30 and takes 15 minutes. PRE-TOUR ACCOMMODATIONS We recommend spending your pre-tour night at our meeting hotel, the Andaz, a small boutique hotel conveniently located downtown. We suggest making a hotel reservation at your earliest convenience as this hotel is very popular. Andaz Hotel 14 Barnard Street Savannah, GA Tel (912) 233 2116 savannah.andaz.hyatt.com Wireless Internet, hair dryers, and laundry service available. DELAYS AND LATE ARRIVALS If you are delayed or miss the scheduled group meeting point for any reason, we kindly request that you contact our emergency assistance provider, One Call International. This service is available 24 hours/day, 7 days/week to assist you with any type of travel delay. Please refer to the Emergency Contact details on your Tour Itinerary Overview page for One Call International contact details. TOUR DEPARTURE POINT AND TIME» Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV), Savannah, GA, 10:00 a.m.» Andaz Hotel, Savannah, GA 10:00 a.m. 800.464.9255 15 countrywalkers.com
Information & Policies GUEST RESPONSIBILITIES Each guest has the responsibility to select a trip appropriate to his/her abilities and interests and to prepare for the trip by carefully reading the confirmation materials. To join this trip, you must be in good health and capable of completing activities as described in the day-to-day itinerary. Our in-house experts welcome the opportunity to discuss the tour in more detail. In order to meet your needs, we ask that you please share any relevant physical limitations or health conditions when you make your reservation. Prior to your adventure you will be asked to sign a Participation Agreement to accept your responsibilities and you will receive:» Luggage tags» List of travel companions and guide biographies GUARANTEED DEPARTURES Country Walkers guarantees the departure of every tour* no exceptions and no disappointments! From the moment you make your deposit, you can start preparing for your adventure. We take care of all the details to ensure a seamless, small-group experience (with an average of 6 or 7 guests per guide). For best availability, reserve your trip today! *except in cases of force majeure RESERVATIONS Reservations for this tour may be made by calling Country Walkers at 800.464.9255. We can confirm your reservation with a non-refundable deposit of $350 per person. Final tour cost is due 90 days prior to tour departure date. As arrangements are confirmed at least a year in advance, the tour price is subject to change. PAYMENTS Final payment for all trips must be made in full to Country Walkers at least 90 days prior to departure. Reservations will be cancelled if final payment is not received by the due date and cancellation charges will apply. To secure reservations on a trip departing within 90 days, full payment is required by credit card at the time of booking. 800.464.9255 16 countrywalkers.com
GUEST RESPONSIBILITIES Each guest has the responsibility to select a trip appropriate to his/her abilities and interests and to prepare for the trip by carefully reading the confirmation materials. To join this trip, you must be in good health and capable of completing activities as described in the day-to-day itinerary. Our in-house experts welcome the opportunity to discuss the tour in more detail. In order to meet your needs, we ask that you please share any relevant physical limitations or health conditions when you make your reservation. CANCELLATION POLICY Cancellations received 91 days or more prior to the tour start date will incur a loss of $350; cancellations received between 90 and 61 days prior to the tour start date incur a loss of 25 percent of the tour price; there are no refunds within 60 days of the tour start date. TRAVEL INSURANCE We offer guests the opportunity to purchase a Travel Protection Plan. Please contact us for details. 800.464.9255 17 countrywalkers.com
The United States at a Glance ENTRY REQUIREMENTS For information about entry requirements, see travel.state.gov. CURRENCY Travel Tip Have a variety of monetary options to start your trip: cash, ATM card(s), and credit card(s). For up-to-date exchange rates for the U.S. dollar with other currencies, see oanda.com. Always contact your bank or your credit-card company for details on fees and card use when traveling. TIME ZONE Find the official time at your U.S. destination at time.gov. PHONE & INTERNET Cell phone coverage throughout the United States is extensive, but cannot be guaranteed to be accessible on all mobile carriers or to function at all times while on the trail or in remote areas. For more information regarding international phone use, please refer to countrywalkers.com/phones. Internet access is generally very good in towns and villages; however, it is not guaranteed at all of the hotels used on the tour. For more details regarding Wi- Fi availability, please refer to the Tour Itinerary Overview. LANGUAGE The official language of the United States is English. ELECTRICITY Alternating current of 120V and 60Hz is used in the United States. The majority of plugs are Type B, with two square and one round prong. For a full listing of electrical outlets worldwide, see electricaloutlet.org. 800.464.9255 18 countrywalkers.com
WEATHER Country Walkers visits a range of U.S. destinations, spanning the continent from Maine to Washington State. Tour dates coincide with the ideal weather and conditions for an active vacation. Fall in New England means stunning foliage, warm days, and crisp nights. Spring and fall in the desert climates of California s Death Valley, Colorado, and Utah start off with chilly mornings that turn into dry and sunny days. Summer in Washington State, Montana, and California can offer sunny days and cooler nights with local variation and seasonal precipitation in all regions. For up-to-date forecasts, see qwikcast.com. For historical average temperatures and rainfall, see weatherbase.com. FOOD & DRINK In addition to the well-known standard repertoire of American food, considerable regional variation reflects the cultural heritage and seasonal harvest of individual areas. In the southwestern states and California, dishes are Mexican- and cowboy-influenced. In Washington State, the bounty includes fresh salmon and other Pacific seafood. In Montana, game, freshly caught fish, and steaks predominate. And in New England, seasonal produce and local specialties such as cheese and maple syrup are ubiquitous, and of course, delectable Maine lobster and seafood are a highlight. Travel Tip For international visitors bringing a hair dryer or other electrical device: Bringing your own hair dryer or other electrical device? You ll need a travel converter, available at most hardware, travel, or consumer electronic stores. For laptops or an electronic device with a dual voltage switch, you ll need the adapter plug but not a converter. 800.464.9255 19 countrywalkers.com
LIFE IN THE UNITED STATES Shopping and banking hours Shops and stores are generally open Monday to Saturday between 9:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., and on Sundays from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Shopping malls, department stores, and supermarkets are open all day, every day of the week, from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. (or later; check locally). Banks are open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday to Friday, and some branches are open from 9:00 a.m. to noon on Saturday. Travel Tip For both U.S. and international travelers, a fascinating resource on American history and culture is the U.S. Library of Congress: loc.gov. Originating as Thomas Jefferson s personal collection, the library maintains a website that is not only a library catalog, but a clearinghouse for wide-ranging information on U.S. history, folklife, geography, the performing arts, and more. Mealtimes Breakfast is served at hotels from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. In restaurants, lunch is served from noon to 3:00 p.m. and dinner is usually served from 4:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. (but with substantial local variation). Tipping In restaurants and bars, leave 15 to 20 percent of the total. Taxi drivers receive 10 to 15 percent of the fare. For luggage assistance, from $2 to $5 depending on the service offered. TRAVEL RESOURCES National U.S. official tourist board discoveramerica.com Public holidays To assist in travel planning, it may be helpful to be aware of U.S. public holidays. See opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/snow-dismissal-procedures/federalholidays/#url=2016 for an official list; and for a description of U.S. holidays, visit usa.gov/citizens/holidays.shtml. 800.464.9255 20 countrywalkers.com
TRAVEL IN THE UNITED STATES A wealth of travel information is available at discoveramerica.com. For a list of all U.S. official state tourist boards, visit visittheusa.com/usa/official-links.aspx. Airports The United States has an enormous international and domestic air network with dozens of companies and hundreds of airports. For travel to various regions and airports, individual state tourist boards offer travel and airport information: visittheusa.com/usa/official-links.aspx. Trains Amtrak: amtrak.com, the national railway company site with schedules, fares, and pass options. Other local transportation Long-distance bus travel can also be a convenient way to reach a destination. National companies include Greyhound (greyhound.com), Trailways (trailways.com), and Megabus (megabus.com); check locally for smaller regional long-distance bus companies. Major car rental agencies are available at airports, city centers, and train and bus stations. Taxis are available at all major airports, cities, train and bus stations, and in smaller towns, and can be reserved in advance (your hotel can usually provide assistance). Travel Tip Country Walkers U.S. itineraries include many of the country s best-known national parks; for more information, visit nps.gov For more information contact Country Walkers. 800.464.9255 21 countrywalkers.com
Packing List PACKING TIPS Pack light! Keep in mind there will be times you may have to carry your own luggage short distances, especially before and after your Country Walkers tour. Due to space constraints, we require you to limit your luggage to one medium piece (approximately 18x15x29 inches or 8,000 cu. in.) and one small carry-on, per person. We recommend packing any personal necessities, medications, your hotel itinerary/emergency contact information, your hiking boots (or shoes), and extra clothes in your carry-on luggage in the event that your baggage is delayed. We suggest leaving valuable jewelry at home. A copy of your passport or other important documents should be kept in a separate area of your luggage. Always be alert when carrying a purse, camera, money belt, or backpack in busy cities, airports, and train stations. FOOTWEAR» Hiking boots or shoes. There are many brands to choose from. Proper fit is crucial, so try on new boots or shoes while wearing socks you plan to use on tour. Be sure to break in new footwear well before your tour begins. By the time you re ready to join your walking tour, you should be able to complete 4-8 miles of walking without discomfort. We require lightweight boots or shoes with proper ankle support and good tread to ensure stability on all types of terrain. Waterproof footwear keeps feet dry in heavy rain and water resistant footwear keeps feet dry in heavy dew. Country Walkers reserves the right to deny participation to any guest not wearing appropriate footwear.» Comfortable shoes for evening strolls on uneven, cobblestone streets» Synthetic, moisture-wicking socks (cotton socks are not recommended for walking as they will quickly cause blisters)» Blister remedy CLOTHING» Lightweight, wash-and-wear long pants» Long-sleeved, wash-and-wear shirt» T-shirts and shorts» Polar fleece or light wool pullover (it will keep you warm even when wet) 800.464.9255 22 countrywalkers.com
» Dinner attire: dress is smart casual» Light jacket or sweater for evening strolls and alfresco dining OUTERWEAR» Waterproof rain gear: jacket, pants, hat, or hood» Windbreaker with hood (your rain gear may be suitable)» Hat with a broad brim or visor EQUIPMENT» Pack (minimum size of 25L): large enough to carry water, extra clothing, rain gear, and personal items (camera, etc.)» Waterproof cover for pack» Water bottle, canteen, or CamelBak-type water reservoir or hydration pack to carry your own water while walking (equivalent of one liter)» Sunblock and lip balm» Insect repellent» Sunglasses» Toilet kit for when facilities are not available on the walks. Include zip-lock baggies, tissues, and moist towelettes, which can be disposed of upon return to the hotel.» Personal first-aid kit including any medications you ordinarily take (in their original container) OPTIONAL» Telescopic walking sticks. (Please note that while telescopic walking sticks are recommended for this tour, they are not provided by Country Walkers. Therefore please plan on bringing your own should you wish to use them.)» Binoculars» Bathing suit for optional swimming in hotel pools» Flip flops or water sandals» Camera and charger and/or extra batteries» Zip-lock bags (to keep camera and valuables dry)» Small notebook and pen» Field guides (see enclosed reading list) 800.464.9255 23 countrywalkers.com
» Folding umbrella» Bandana» Hand sanitizer and/or moist towelettes» Alarm clock 800.464.9255 24 countrywalkers.com