How flexible are Back-Roads itineraries?Days can sometimes be fairly long, but we take our time without rushing from place to place and we make stops on the way so the drives are not too long. We might typically leave at 9am and arrive back at our hotel at 5pm, however, some days may be longer and others shorter depending on what needs to be covered that day. We do not start before 8am and do try to build in time for rest and relaxation – especially on longer tours.
How much walking on a tour?There are certain visits included in our itineraries which are fixed and included in the price. However outside these there is some flexibility to adapt the itinerary according to such things as the weather, special events and group wishes. Of course all group members must be in agreement if any radical change to the itinerary is to be made, but one of the beauties of small-group touring is that we are not on a strict timetable like the big bus tours and can be much more relaxed and flexible in our approach. If you have a specific request which is not on the itinerary, we will do our best to accommodate it, but this will depend on the agreement of your fellow-travellers and the judgement of the guide as to whether the request is feasible and we cannot guarantee to be able to accommodate it.
Is there time to shop?In cities, walking tours are offered by your guide. On European mainland tours there is considerable walking as many historic cities prohibit motorised transport and we have to park some distance out of the centre. On most tours there are opportunities for some extended walking, often from the accommodations we use.
Please note: if you have a mobility problem or concern, you may not find our tours suitable. Please contact us if you have any doubts.
Am I expected to leave gratuities?Of course! But we will NOT be taking you to 'commission' stops. Our guides are not permitted to profit from your shopping.
How much driving do we do?It is common in the UK & Europe to leave a small gratuity in restaurants and cafes if you have received good service (typically 10% on top of the bill). It would also be usual to give your tour guide a tip at the end of the tour if he/she has done a good job. The amount is entirely at your discretion, and is not mandatory, but it is always much appreciated.
What are the benefits of travelling in a small group?We design tours so that there is as little wasted time as possible on the bus and plenty to see while aboard. Inevitably, there are days when travelling between locations may involve freeway driving and more mileage. Generally, a typical day's driving would be anywhere between 110 and 170 miles. There are at least three major attraction stops, 'comfort' and meal stops. We do travel along the scenic route wherever possible and you will see more of the countryside and local village life than on a regular tour.
What meals are included?Unlike a large coach company we can offer a truly personal experience as we can explore the local region in greater depth. You will meet like-minded friends and enjoy the convenience of your own personal driver/guide, who will impart their local knowledge and ensure you visit sites that the mainstream tourist typically misses out on.
Can special dietary needs be accommodated?Delicious breakfasts are included daily – English, Welsh, Scottish or Irish breakfasts in the UK and Ireland and European breakfast in mainland Europe. We also include some dinners, either in the hotel or in a local restaurant. We ensure that you have some free evenings for you to explore the local cuisine. One thing to remember, dinner times in Europe are likely to be later than you might be used to, 7.30 at the earliest and often later in France, Italy and Spain. In Europe dinner is a leisurely experience!
Do you include entrance fees to attractions?We will do our best to satisfy your dietary needs, but you must ensure that any restrictions are made clear to us at the time of booking so we can pass the information on to our hotels. Some of the properties we use are small, and cannot produce alternative meals without advance warning. In Europe properties are perhaps less inclined to make special efforts in this area, so please be understanding if we are not as familiar with your particular dietary needs in comparison to home.
Can I get my hair done / laundry done on tour / go to church or synagogue / post items home?Unlike many tour companies who charge everything as extras, we do include a selection of entrances in the price. Those inclusions are clear from the brochure and our website. Any other entrance fees are at your own expense according to your choice.
Yes. There is generally sufficient free time to incorporate all such functions, though we can't guarantee such in every country. Your guide-companion will be able to advise the most convenient point and assist in making relevant arrangements.
Back-Roads Touring Company Ltd.
Level 1, 107 Power Road,
London W4 5PY
United Kingdom
Phone: +44 (0) 208 9870 990
(Mon - Fri: 0900 - 1800 GMT)
Fax: +44 (0) 208 9940 888
info@backroadstouring.us
