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Friday, May 12, 2023 | Tuesday, Jun 06, 2023 | $10,955 | Get Quote | |
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Friday, Jul 28, 2023 | Tuesday, Aug 22, 2023 | $10,435 | Get Quote | |
Friday, Aug 11, 2023 | Tuesday, Sep 05, 2023 | $10,435 | Get Quote | |
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Friday, May 10, 2024 | Tuesday, Jun 04, 2024 | $10,955 | Get Quote | |
Friday, May 31, 2024 | Tuesday, Jun 25, 2024 | $10,955 | Get Quote | |
Friday, Jun 14, 2024 | Tuesday, Jul 09, 2024 | $10,955 | Get Quote | |
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Friday, Jul 12, 2024 | Tuesday, Aug 06, 2024 | $10,955 | Get Quote | |
Friday, Jul 26, 2024 | Tuesday, Aug 20, 2024 | $10,955 | Get Quote | |
Friday, Aug 09, 2024 | Tuesday, Sep 03, 2024 | $10,955 | Get Quote | |
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Lock it in with $99 Deposit
Lock it in with $99 Deposit
Promotion Details
The $99 “low deposit” Intrepid Travel offer applies to new bookings made between 12:01am EST 1 March 2023 – 23:59pm PST 31 March 2023, for trips departing before 31 December 2023. Full payment is due 56 days before departure, unless otherwise stated on Intrepid Travel’s Booking Conditions. This offer is valid for bookings made in the following currencies only: USD $99, CAD $99. All other currencies are not eligible. The $99 deposit can be paid towards any Intrepid Travel small group adventure trip, excluding the following:
a) All polar trips in the Arctic and Antarctic;
b) Tailor-Made Experiences;
c) Short Break Adventures (including Urban Adventures trips)
d) Gorilla Trek permit trips: YXOG, YXOCC, YXOGC, YGSGC, YXOIC, YXOFC, UBODC, YXOEC, UXODC, YGPU, YGPKC, YGSUS;
e) Inca Trail permit trips: GGTA, GGTBC, GGSEC, GGYM, GGTWC, GGHC, GGSQ, GGSA, GGSYC, GGSF, GGYP, GGYBC, GGSAC, GGKY, GGYDC, GGYA, GGKIC, GGSFC, GGBNC, GGBTC, GGBZC, GGYC, GGSD, GGSGC;
f) Australia trips operated by ATA and KWE: PKBB-B, PKBB-O, PKBL-B, PKBL-O, PKOW-O, PKOL-B, PKOL-O, PKOW-B, PKRB, PKFK, PAR3-O, PAR3Y-O, PAR3-B, PAR3Y-B, PP10, PB10, PBD10, PDB10, PBP10, PNTW6-B, PNTW6-O, PIXC;
h) New Zealand trips operated by Haka: PHRI, PHRN, PHRO, PHRS, PHRWC, PHRXC, PHRYC, PHRZC, PHRUC, PHKN, PHKO, PHKS, PHKYZ, PHKZC;
i) United States trips operated by Wildland Trekking; SKXZ, SKXU, SKXA, SKXL, SKXJ, SKXD, SKXWG, SKXWR, SKXWY, SKXWS, SKXWM, SKXV, SKXCW, SKXW, SKXY, SKXI, SKXE, SKXH, SKXO, SKXB;
j) Canada trips operated by Adventure Canada: SBKA, SBKN, SBKH, SBKG;
The $99 offer is not combinable with any other promotion or discount unless specified. Multiple $99 deposit bookings must not overlap in travel dates, however consecutive $99 deposit bookings are permitted. Offer applies to land element of tour only and cannot be redeemed against flights, additional accommodation, transfers or travel insurance. $99 deposit amount is payable per person, per trip. The trip is subject to availability and confirmation by Intrepid Travel at time of booking. If you wish to cancel and rebook your trip or change dates outside the promotional period, you will be required to pay the full deposit towards the new trip. Intrepid Travel’s vaccination policy applies. Except as set out expressly above, Intrepid Travel’s Booking Conditions apply. Additional restrictions may apply.

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Tour Itinerary
Unlock the cultural treasure chest of the Balkans on an in-depth 26-day Premium adventure from Split to Bucharest. Amazing beaches and sunshine give way to medieval towns and castles as lesser known National Parks provide an incredible mountianous backdrop. Get away from the modern world and in with the locals on the remote and beautiful island of Lastovo, and soak up ancient riches of Transylvania, and discover Tara National Park's spectacular scenery on foot and riding the rails on a historic steam train. Bursting with culinary delights and cultural wonders - the Balkans has it all.
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Day 1
SplitWelcome to Croatia! Your adventure begins today with your arrival in Split. Located right on the Adriatic coast, Croatia’s second-largest city combines stunning architecture with a timeless soul. You will be collected from the airport and transferred to your hotel where you’ll meet your local leader and small group for a 6pm welcome meeting. If you arrive early, you might like to visit the Mestrovic gallery, which displays the remarkable work of one of Croatia’s greatest sculptors. After the meeting tonight, get to know your fellow travellers and group leader over dinner at one of Split’s excellent restaurants. Prepare for a culinary adventure as this is a country that takes good food and drink seriously. Perhaps try some brudet, a rustic seafood stew, or some rozata, a creamy custard pudding.
Meals: Dinner -
Day 2
SplitThis morning meet with a local guide who is an expert on the area and embark on a sightseeing tour of Split. Your guide will provide profound insight as you discover a living textbook on history and architecture. Dating back 1800 years, the city began as a monumental imperial residence for the retirement of the Roman emperor Diocletian. This ancient fortress still makes up half of Split’s old town, and today is an intriguing warren of narrow cobblestone streets where pre-Romanesque churches exist alongside Gothic chapels and a multitude of museums. Stop by the statue of Grgur Ninski and learn how this tenth-century bishop once opposed the pope and introduced the Croatian language into his services. The evening is free for further explorations. Perhaps dive deeper into Split’s booming gastronomy scene - your leader will know some great spots to grab a bite to eat.
Meals: Breakfast -
Day 3
Split / Lastovo IslandEnjoy a relaxing morning in Split before boarding an afternoon catamaran to Croatia’s most remote island - Lastovo. This little piece of paradise is home to your Feature Stay accommodation for the next two nights. The protected island nature park remains free from the effects of mainstream tourism and has retained its local flair. Without the infrastructure that caters to mass tourism, and with a dwindling population for the same reason, your leader will introduce you to scenes of traditional Adriatic island life as it once was. As a bonus, our sustainable tourism here supports the locals who have decided to remain. Arrive at your guesthouse and let the peaceful nature of Lastovo Island wash over you as the Adriatic Sea gently laps at your doorstep. Views from your spacious room look like they’re straight off a postcard, with charming houses fringing the glittering turquoise bay. This evening, take in the view over a wonderful included dinner with your group.
Meals: Breakfast Dinner -
Day 4
Lastovo IslandToday you will immerse yourself in island life and learn an important local trade as you rise early and take to the seas with a local fisherman, his wife and his crew. Help them to bring in the day’s catch, usually a selection of scorpion fish, mackerel, sardine and bream, then enjoy the fruits of your labour with a delicious seafood lunch prepared on board - it doesn’t get more fresh than that! The captain will discuss their self-sustaining lifestyle and provide unrivalled insight into daily rituals, leaving you with an unforgettable impression of life on this remote island. Return to land and enjoy the rest of the day as you see fit. Perhaps unroll your beach towel and enjoy a few horizontal hours, or explore the peace and quiet of the stone waterfront and tiny port of this slice of heaven lost in time.
Meals: Breakfast Dinner -
Day 5
Korcula IslandIt’s time to bid farewell to Lastovo, but keep your watch set to island time. Transfer back to the port of Ubli, where you will board the mid-morning ferry bound for the delightful island of Korcula. Disembark and transfer to Korcula Town. On the way, stop in Blato to visit Ethno House Barilo, an ethnographic museum that will give you an intimate look at life on this island. Arrive in Korcula Town for an orientation walk and wind through endearing red-roofed houses huddled closely on marble streets. Your leader will give you a glimpse into the past as you stroll streets lined with Renaissance and Gothic architecture. Enjoy a free evening in this stunning seaside town. Perhaps continue your explorations of the Old Town, taking in the stocky Revelin Tower and impressive defensive walls before stopping for dinner in one of the island’s many restaurants.
Meals: Breakfast -
Day 6
Peljesac Peninsula / DubrovnikToday begin the journey to Dubrovnik, making some interesting stops along the way. Take a short ferry ride from Korcula to the Peljesac Peninsula. The star of this region is its wine, which you’ll experience first-hand during a visit to a lovely cooperative of family wineries. Sample some of the local drops, along with light cheese and smoked ham. Visit the on-site museum to learn more about wine production in this region. Next, visit the town of Ston, known for some of the world’s most delectable oysters, and enjoy time to explore or partake in an optional lunch. Continue on to Dubrovnik where your leader will explain the city’s history as you explore Stari Grad, the tightly packed Old Town. Restored to its former glory since the damages of the 1991 conflicts, Dubrovnik surprises at every turn, and the best way to experience the city’s soul it is to walk its streets. Stop in time to enjoy the sunset views from the famous city walls.
Meals: Breakfast -
Day 7
DubrovnikThe day is free for you to explore at leisure. Dubrovnik offers a wealth of experiences to cater to every taste, so be sure to ask your leader for some suggestions. Perhaps visit the historical Rector's Palace to marvel at the ornate Venetian-Gothic architecture, or sip a beer on the terrace of one of Dubrovnik’s teetering cliff bars. In the evening meet join your leader and group for a final dinner. Head to a splendid restaurant just outside the city. Indulge in a range of classic Croatian dishes made with generations-old recipes before raising your glass to the end of an adventure.
Meals: Breakfast Dinner -
Day 8
DubrovnikEnjoy another free day in the jewel of the Dalmatian Coast. Perhaps take a ferry to explore the Elafiti Islands, swimming in crystal clear water and exploring quaint fishing villages on foot. In the evening, you'll meet new additions to your group at a welcome meeting. Next, head for dinner at a local restaurant showcasing Croatia’s traditional cuisine.
Meals: Breakfast Dinner -
Day 9
DubrovnikAfter breakfast, drive from your hotel to the Konavle region south of Dubrovnik. The region is known as the Golden Valley of Dubrovnik as it has the most fertile grounds in the area and is filled with vineyards and fruit trees. Visit the small town of Cavtat with its beautiful architecture, ancient history and pebble beaches. After exploring the town, you’ll head further into the Konavle region for a traditional ‘peka’ lunch featuring lamb and other meats cooked under an iron bell. No meal in this region is complete without a glass of Croatian wine, so toast your hearty meal with a glass of Grk or Plavac Mali local wine. On your return to Dubrovnik, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy your way, perhaps with a walk around the city walls or a swim in the sparkling Adriatic Sea.
Meals: Breakfast Dinner -
Day 10
MostarToday you’ll cross the border and travel into Bosnia & Herzegovina, stopping at several beautiful destinations in the Herzegovina region along the way. Your first stop is Trebinje where you’ll join your leader for a walking tour that takes in the compact Old Town and its pretty market square, followed by a stop at an Orthodox monastery to taste the famous Tvrdos wine. After you’ve quenched your thirst, your trip continues to Stolac where you may like to join your leader for a walk to visit the old medieval fortress high on the hill. After you’ve explored the sights of Stolac, you’ll arrive in Mostar in an hour. Here you’ll join an expert local guide for a guided tour around town that reveals why there is such a strong connection between the locals and coffee.
Meals: Breakfast -
Day 11
SarajevoLeave Mostar and travel towards Sarajevo, but not without a stop at Konjic where you’ll discover one of the best-kept secrets in former Yugoslavia, Tito's nuclear bunker. The military bunker was built to protect Yugoslav President Josip Broz Tito and hundreds of his top military personnel and has only recently opened to the public. Go back in time on a guided tour of the bunker and learn about Yugoslav history and how life used to be in not-so-distant past. After touring the bunker, continue to Sarajevo and settle into your hotel before heading out to explore the city with an expert local guide. Tonight you may like to join your group for dinner at a local restaurant.
Meals: Breakfast -
Day 12
SarajevoToday is yours to explore your way. Taste your way through the market stalls of Bascarsija, visit one of the museums dedicated to the Yugoslav war or perhaps take a cable car up Trebevic mountain to enjoy magnificent views over the city. You’ll finish the day with a memorable home-cooked meal shared with your hosts Mustafa and Mersiha who proudly claim their kitchen has the best view over Sarajevo. Your night begins learning how Bosnian pita is made before a hearty meal of sogan dolma (stuffed onions) and dolam (stuffed paprika). Of course, you’ll get to try the freshly made pita too.
Meals: Breakfast Dinner -
Day 13
Tara National ParkToday you’ll travel onwards to Serbia with a stop in the small town of Višegrad where a magnificent 16th-century bridge dominates the horizon and provided the inspiration for the Nobel Prize winning literary work, The Bridge on the Drina. From Višegrad, you’ll cross the border into Serbia and continue your journey to Tara National Park. Widely regarded as one of the most spectacular destinations in the country, Tara National Park is home to the world’s third largest river canyon and filled with forested slopes and dramatic ravines. Tonight you’ll bed down in Me?avnik in your Feature Stay, a traditional village that Serbian film director Emir Kusturica built for his film Life Is a Miracle. Explore the village before joining your group for a traditional dinner to celebrate your first night in Serbia.
Meals: Breakfast Dinner -
Day 14
BelgradeThis morning you'll take an easy two hour hike through Tara National Park followed by a scenic steam train ride through the park’s forest and mountains. This section of the railway is part of the famous Ciro trail that connects Belgrade and the Adriatic Sea. Rattle along the tracks as the narrow gauge engine and historic carriages takes you through the jaw dropping scenery, with four stops along the way so passengers can take photos of the incredible views. After spending a half day exploring Tara National Park on foot and riding the rails, settle back for the four hour drive to Belgrade where you’ll check into your hotel and enjoy a leisurely evening after a long day of travel.
Meals: Breakfast -
Day 15
BelgradeStart your day with a guided walking tour and discover all that Belgrade has to offer including Republic Square, Knez Mihailova Street which is lined with historic buildings and Kalemegdan Park and the Belgrade Fortress where the Danube and Sava Rivers meet. Immerse yourself in the town’s rich history and perhaps ask your local guide for suggestions on where to experience the best night life in the Balkans as Belgrade is known for its party scene. This afternoon is yours to explore your way, perhaps with a visit to the city market or Nikola Tesla Museum or by catching a trolleybus to Zemun - a bohemian, village like neighbourhood that’s known for its cafes and fish restaurants along the riverside promenade. This evening, join your group for a traditional dinner in the bohemian Skadarska quarter to celebrate the penultimate night of your trip.
Meals: Breakfast Dinner -
Day 16
BelgradeSpend a free day in Belgrade before meeting up with new members of your group. Tonight you’ll meet your local leader and new travellers at 6 pm. Before, check out the city’s many museums – including the one dedicated to Nikola Tesla, the Serbian-American inventor known for transforming our understanding of electricity; or get a caffeine fix with a Turkish coffee at a kafana – traditional coffee houses date back to the Ottoman era. Tonight you’ll join the group for dinner at one of the city’s fantastic local restaurants and learn about Serbian produce and cuisine.
Meals: Breakfast Dinner -
Day 17
TimisoaraThis morning you’ll travel by private vehicle to Timisoara, crossing the Serbia-Romania border en route. Timisoara is a pretty park-filled city with a remarkable past. It was here that an uprising of local people sparked the Romanian Revolution in 1989, which saw the fall of the country’s Communist regime – reflecting the broader political change seen across Eastern Europe at the time. On a guided walking tour you’ll take in some of Timisoara’s most significant sights – including the grand and aptly named Victory, Liberty and Union Squares – and learn more about the city’s history.
Meals: Breakfast -
Day 18
SibiuToday you’ll make your way to Sibiu, stopping on the way to visit the striking Hunedoara Castle (also known as Corvin Castle). The Gothic-Renaissance building looks like a cross between Hogwarts and something from a German fairy tale, with a huge drawbridge and a cluster of cloud-piercing turrets – you’ll learn more about its history, plus a few hair-raising myths, on a guided tour. Upon arrival in Sibiu, you’ll get acquainted with the city’s cobbled streets and historic squares on a guided walking tour. Sibiu is something of a cultural heavyweight, known for its creative, bohemian atmosphere, rich history and eye-catching architecture. Explore what remains of the city’s medieval walls and towers, cross the legend-shrouded Bridge of Lies and take in the grandeur of Brukenthal National Museum, comprising numerous ornate palaces.
Meals: Breakfast -
Day 19
SibiuThis morning you’ll head to the outskirts of the city to explore ASTRA Village Museum. Set across 96 acres surrounding a sparkling lake, this open air living museum seeks to preserve, showcase and celebrate Romanian folk culture and traditional ways of life. Wander the grounds to discover reconstructed old dwellings, windmills and workshops and learn how Romanian people of centuries past grew food, raised families and made a living. The afternoon is yours to explore. You could gaze at the incredible interiors and towering dome of the Orthodox Cathedral, or admire the slightly less imposing (but equally magnificent) Gothic Lutheran church. Alternatively, grab a covrigi (a tasty Romanian pretzel), wander the old town and snap photos of the colourful, Wes Anderson-style architecture.
Meals: Breakfast -
Day 20
Coltesti VillageDepart Sibiu and head to Alba Lulia, one of the oldest cities in Romania. It is home to an 18th-century citadel with a history that dates back to Roman times. Shaped like a seven-point star, the fortress features a collection of ornate gates and vantage points, as well as numerous museums and cafes. Wander the cobbled streets with an expert guide to hear more about what went on within these ancient walls over the last two millennia. Next, take a drive into the Trasc?u Mountains to reach Coltesti and check in to Szekler Mansion, your exclusive feature stay. Freshen up in your room – decked out with local textiles and hand-painted decorative furniture – before enjoying a traditional dinner, which could feature hearty bowls of borsch or goulash, locally-made cheese and sarmale (smoky, meat-filled cabbage rolls).
Meals: Breakfast Dinner -
Day 21
SighisoaraPrepare for an unforgettable underground experience as you make your way to Turda Salt Mine. The gargantuan subterranean space was renovated and opened to the public in the early 1990s and resembles an alien planet or a Bond villain’s lair. Don’t forget to pack a sweatshirt – it gets chilly 119 metres down. Once you resurface, you’ll discover plenty of choices when it comes to your optional lunch – including a nearby winery. This afternoon, travel to Unesco-listed Sighisoara – your home for the next two nights, and birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, the historical figure and inspiration behind Bram Stoker’s Dracula.
Meals: Breakfast -
Day 22
SighisoaraThis morning, explore the colourful streets of Sighisoara’s old town on a guided walk. You’ll visit the 14th-century Clock Tower that dominates the skyline (and offers 360 views from the top), and climb the 176 creaking covered steps that connect the upper and lower parts of town to reach the so-called Church on the Hill. Drive to Malancrav to share lunch in a bucolic setting. The Saxon village was once owned by one family, the Apafis, and populated with German farmers. Highlights here include Apafi Mansion and a 14th-century church with the largest Gothic fresco in Transylvania. After your meal you’ll swing by the neighbouring World Heritage site of Biertan and its spectacular fortified church before heading to Medias – known for its medieval fortifications and wine (‘Golden Mediasch’ is even mentioned in the novel Dracula). Enjoy some free time before making your way back to Sighisoara for the evening.
Meals: Breakfast Dinner -
Day 23
BrasovAfter breakfast you’ll make your way to Brasov, making a pitstop at hilltop Rupea Fortress. The restored citadel’s steep and rocky pathways spiral up to the highest point, offering broad sweeping views over the surrounding green fields. This afternoon you’ll reach Brasov and embark on a guided walking tour to get your bearings and learn about the city’s most notable sights – including what’s left of the old medieval fortifications, the Black Church that was charred in the Great Fire of 1689 but since restored, and the wedge-shaped Council Square, lined with historic buildings. Tonight you’ll enjoy dinner together at a quality local restaurant.
Meals: Breakfast Dinner -
Day 24
BrasovBy now you’ll have spotted the fact that Brasov has its own Hollywood-style sign, perched high on the slopes of Mount Tampa. This morning you’ll join the group on a cable car ride to the top, where you’ll enjoy sensational views of the town below. The journey only takes a few minutes – but if you’d prefer to hike up or down, the steep journey takes around an hour each way. This afternoon enjoy some free time – opting to explore more of Brasov itself (perhaps seek out tiny String Street, which is 44 inches at its narrowest point) or indulging in some Romanian sweet treats such as kurtoskalacs, a cinnamon-sprinkled delight known as chimney cake, or papanasi, a sweet cream doughnut topped with blueberry jam. Still not fortressed out? Take a trip beyond the city limits to soak up more history and views from Rasnov Fortress.
Meals: Breakfast -
Day 25
BucharestToday you’ll head south, packing in plenty of action before reaching your final destination, Bucharest. First stop: Bran Castle, perhaps Romania’s most famous attraction, given its associations with the tale of Count Dracula. Vampire myths aside (it was never actually host to Vlad the Impaler or Bram Stoker) the forested surroundings and lofty location of this 14th-century castle will have you hypnotised. Stop for lunch in the Prahova Valley, where you’ll tour a local winery – known for its sparkling rose – in the mountain town of Azuga. You’ll squeeze in one last castle in Peles, but this one is somewhat more modern. Built in the late 19th century, the neo-Renaissance creation is even more extravagant on the inside than it is on the outside. Hit the road one last time, reaching Bucharest by early evening.
Meals: Breakfast Dinner -
Day 26
BucharestYour adventure comes to an end after breakfast this morning. If you’d like to spend some more time in Bucharest, let us know in advance – we would be happy to organise additional accommodation for you (subject to availability).
Meals: Breakfast
OR Call Us For a Free Quote 1-800-935-2620
- Split - Welcome Dinner at Local Restaurant
- Complimentary Airport Arrival Transfer
- Split - Walking Tour with Local Guide
- Split - Diocletian's Palace Visit
- Lastovo Island - Fishing Trip with Local Fisherman with Seafood Lunch
- Korcula Island - Korcula Old Town Orientation Walk
- Korcula – Blato Ethno House Barilo
- Dubrovnik - City Walls
- Peljesac - Museum of Viticulture and Winemaking Putnikovic
- Dubrovnik - Dubrovnik Card (1 day local transport & entry to sites)
- Dubrovnik - Cavtat Tour
- Mostar - Guided Tour with Coffee Experience
- Stolac - Town Visit
- Trebinje - Tvrdos Monastery Wine Tasting
- Trebinje - Walking Tour
- Konjic - Tito`s Bunker Tour
- Sarajevo - Walking Tour
- Sarajevo - Cooking Demo and Home-made Dinner
- Višegrad - Town Visit
- Tara National Park - Hike
- Tara National Park - Steam Train
- Belgrade - Walking Tour
- Timisoara - City Tour
- Sibiu - Evening Walking Tour
- Hunedoara - Castle Tour
- Sibiu - ASTRA Village Museum
- Alba Lulia - Citadel Tour
- Turda - Salt Mines Tour
- Malancrav - Village Stop
- Medias - Town Stop
- Biertan - Town Stop
- Sighisoara - Walking Tour
- Rupea - Fortress Stop
- Brasov - Walking Tour
- Mount Tampa - Cable Car
- Peles - Castle Visit
- Azuga - Winery Tour and Tasting with Lunch
- Bran Castle - Tour
Meals
25 Breakfast(s) Included
4 Lunch(es) Included
10 Dinner(s) Included
Style: Premium
Health and Safety Protocols for Intrepid Tours
Protection against COVID-19 as well as other transmissible diseases requires enhanced protocols in hygiene and sanitation. We will put in place additional measures, in line with government health advice and with global health authorities (including the WHO and CDC) to ensure that we maintain the highest standards of cleanliness and hygiene.
Hand Hygiene
Handwashing is one of the most important safety measures to prevent the spread of
disease. Intrepid will actively reinforce its importance by:
- Implementing a handwashing policy that dictates when, how often and for how long all staff, leaders and crew must wash their hands on-trip.
- Promote the importance of hand hygiene to customers through signage and online customer material.
- Contract suppliers that have hand hygiene protocols in place
- Contract suppliers that provide hand sanitizer in public places (where applicable)
- Educate staff, leaders, crew and suppliers on the importance of hand hygiene via training.
Respiratory Hygiene
Practicing good respiratory hygiene prevents the spread of disease by reducing the
number of droplets in the air when you sneeze or cough. Intrepid will:
- Actively reinforce its importance to customers through signage and online customer material.
- Educate staff, leaders, crew and suppliers on the importance of respiratory hygiene via training.
- Contract suppliers who have respiratory hygiene protocols in place.
Masks
In addition, in areas with high community transmission and/or places that are difficult
to maintain physical distancing, we recommend the the following at-risk people also
wear them. Intrepid follows the advice of the World Health Organisation (WHO) that
masks should only be used as part of a comprehensive prevention strategy and that the
use of a mask alone is not sufficient to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Physical
distancing, hand hygiene and respiratory hygiene must also form part of the
strategy.
Medical/Surgical Masks
On our trips, regardless of destination, the following people must wear
medical/surgical masks:
- Anyone who develops symptoms of COVID-19 regardless of whether or not they have been tested yet.
- People caring for people with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 cases (outside of hospitals/clinics).
In addition, in areas with high community transmission and/or places that are difficult to maintain physical distancing, we recommend the the following at-risk people also wear them.
- People over 60
- People with underlying health conditions
- Provide medical/surgical masks as part of the First Aid Kits carried by leaders.
- Educate leaders, crew, staff and customers on the correct method to wear, handle and dispose of a mask.
- Require all customers, leaders and staff to comply with any local regulations or requirements that require the use of a mask in public or in certain places
Fabric Masks
Intrepid follows the advice of the World Health Organisation (WHO) that it is not
necessary for the public to wear fabric masks generally.
However in certain circumstances, in places where community transmission of COVID-19 is high and/or physical distancing is not possible (e.g. on public transport, in shops or in other confined environments) then a fabric mask can be a useful barrier to prevent the spread of virus.
Fabric masks be purchased commercially or handmade, and are generally not standardised like medical masks. Fabric masks should:
- Cover the nose, mouth, and chin
- Be secured with elastic loops or ties
- Include multiple layers
- Be washable and reusable.
Sanitation
Protection against COVID-19 as well as other transmissible diseases requires enhanced sanitation processes. Intrepid will take the following measures:
- Require all suppliers to detail their cleaning and sanitation protocols
- Audit/monitor all suppliers on their cleanliness and sanitation.
- All cleaning and disinfecting products must be approved by health authorities (e.g. WHO).
- All rooms must be thoroughly cleaned between guests with all high touch surfaces in shared areas regularly cleaned and disinfected.
- Hand sanitizer should be available in public areas.
- There must be a process in place for customers to escalate any concerns regarding hygiene or sanitation.
- Staff must be trained and able to answer questions regarding safety protocols in place.
- All tents must be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected between use.
- If staying at a campground, ensure all bathrooms are well stocked with hand soap and paper towels. If the area is remote, with limited facilities and/or minimal staffing, then customers should be informed to bring their own hygiene equipment.
- All mini buses, transfers, charters, overland trucks must be thoroughly cleaned between guests with all high touch surfaces in shared areas regularly cleaned and disinfected.
- Hand sanitizer should be made available
- Close top bins with bin liners should be available on board and disposed of at every stop
- Must be thoroughly cleaned at the end of each day
- Tables and chairs must be disinfected after each guest use
- Avoid buffets where possible. If buffets are used, prevent customers from handling food and operating machines (e.g. self-serve coffee stations)
- Either disinfect shared use objects (e.g. table salt) between guest use. Where possible, Intrepid will try to source safe alternatives to single serve packaging.
- Staff must be trained and able to answer questions regarding safety protocols in place.
- Preferred: Provide hand sanitizer to guests at the door before entry
- All equipment must be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected between guest us
- Staff must be trained and able to answer questions regarding safety protocols in place.
Limiting the number of surfaces touched by large numbers of people helps prevent the spread of disease. Therefore, it is important to proactively move towards contactless or low touch solutions for travel. Intrepid will:
- Prioritise contactless/low touch as a key feature when sourcing new tech or solutions.
- Remove any paperwork required on the ground (e.g. signing forms, feedback cards)
- If details must be entered using a shared device (e.g. insurance details), then it must be disinfected between each customer. Preference is to move entirely to digital solutions.
- Accommodation should provide online check in (no paperwork)
- Contactless keys (e.g. QR codes)
- Contactless tech (e.g. lights)
- Online ticketing for attractions and transport
- Online payment
Physical Distancing
Physical distancing is important in the preventing the spread of COVID-19 as it can be
transmitted via droplets sprayed when coughing, sneezing, singing, yelling
etc…
Intrepid will take the following measures:
- Require all suppliers to detail their physical distancing protocols
- Follow local regulation and advice on the need for physical distancing.
We will continue to offer this as an option. Single supplements are available for single travellers who do not wish to share a room. We will work closely with accommodation suppliers to ensure increased availability of single rooms.
Camping
- Consider whether it is appropriate to offer single tents for solo travellers as customers will be much closer together then in a traditional room.
- Consider whether staggering meal times may reduce the number of people sharing a dining tent.
Intrepid will consider the following factors when designing or amending transport options on trips.
- Local laws or requirements regarding physical distancing on transport
- Hygiene protocols of the transport provider
- Level of active community transmission in the destination
- Using designated seating on transport. Customers have assigned seats throughout the trip.
- If trip is longer than 15 minutes and air conditioning is available, it must be set to external airflow rather than to recirculation or windows should be opened for the duration of the trip.
- Designing or amending itineraries to reduce the duration of travel.
- Increasing the size of the vehicle, using multiple vehicles.
- Educate all leaders, crew, staff and customers to maintain a 1.5m distance wherever practical in public (e.g. queueing at a museum).
- Proactively design product to avoid crowds by visiting attractions at off-peak times.
- Proactively design product to avoid crowds on public transport or at airports where practical.
- Follow local regulations on table spacing and guest seating in restaurants. Wherever possible, try to ensure groups are sitting at their own table without strangers in restaurants.
- Proactively design product that focuses on experiences that assist with physical distancing (e.g. picnics over crowded marketplaces) if relevant for that destination.
Screening for COVID-19 helps isolate anyone with COVID-19 symptoms and stops the spread of disease. It is likely to become more common for future travellers.
Pre-Departure (Brand Material)
Customers should be informed as part of ‘Essential Trip Information (ETIs) or other similar trip notes if their trip is likely to include any of the following:
- Testing for COVID-19 before being able to pass through immigration and/or board planes.
- Negative test results to be uploaded for visa purposes.
- Thermal temperature checks in airports, train or bus stations, major hotels or attractions.
Pre-departure, all customers are required to fill out an online questionnaire (“self- declaration/assessment” form) to identify any high-risk customers before travel.
Extra qualifiers will be included to address customers with symptoms that can be contributed to pre-existing conditions (e.g. breathlessness to asthma).
Customers answering YES to any question should be removed from the departure and appropriate arrangements made.
COVID-19 Testing
Intrepid will not require a negative COVID-19 test as proof of health from customers or leaders at this stage unless it is required by local law or regulations.
This is partially due to the lack of availability of testing for people with no symptoms in many parts of the world and may change in due course.
On Trip
- Ask customers, leaders, crew and staff to monitor their own health
- Display appropriate signage on COVID-19 symptoms
- Educate leaders, crew and staff on how to identify COVID-19 symptoms
- Describe COVID-19 symptoms in group meetings
If customers, leaders or crew show symptoms of COVID-19 and are either unable to or unwilling to be tested, Intrepid reserves the right to remove them from our trips to prevent any risk to others.
Flexible Booking Conditions
Customers will be supported by flexible booking conditions to stay home if unwell or displaying symptoms
Flexible Work Conditions
Intrepid will support leaders and crew to stay home rather than lead a trip if they are unwell or displaying symptoms. Schedules will need to be created with back up availability of leaders/crew.
Data Collection & Health Tracking
Intrepid will assist government health departments in tracking and tracing any customers, staff, leaders, crew or suppliers at risk of contracting COVID-19 via exposure to a known case and/or outbreak by providing relevant details in line with privacy laws and regulations.
COVID Tracking apps
Intrepid strongly recommends that customers and staff download COVID tracking apps (e.g. COVIDSafe in Australia, StayHomeSafe in Hong Kong) to assist in reducing the spread of disease within their communities.
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Question: How many suitcases can I take with me on my trip?
Question: Is Airfare Included in the Price?
Intrepid tour is great company. Will use this company again.
The trip was both both educational and exciting. I very much enjoyed the sights and culture.
The itinerary was just as I expected! The guide was very good as were the accomodations
Intrepid did such a great job. I never had to worry about where I was supposed to be and it felt so good not to worry about a thing but just to enjoy myself. Our guide was extremely knowledgeable about culture and history.
Taiwan people very friendly. Accommodation were centrally located and easily accessible. Did extra activities then in brochure which was greatly.
Larus our tour guide did an excellent job and was very attentive to our needs. He is very knowledgeable and has a great sense of humor.
Our guide Tarang chandola was exceptional. Courteous, knowledgeable, organized, polite, professional and went above and beyond taking care of our needs and requests offen anticipating what that might be. He made sure we all had the best possible time and offered suggestions to meet the needs of everyone on the tour. This made the trip even more enjoyable.
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Our tour guide was wonderful. She was knowledgeable, fun, energetic, and made our week run very smoothly. The trip itself was fantastic! We saw a lot and the islands are absolutely beautiful. Great food, great new friends made on the tour, and would absolutely book with Intrepid again.