Peter`s Way Tours Inc.

Chicago Pilgrimage Choir
Heart of Italy
Fr. Jan
Michael Joncas
Chaplain
Wendy Barton Silhavy and Michael Silhavy, Artistic Directors
February 20 – 27, 2014
Rome  Vatican City  Assisi
With a Two-Day Optional Extension to Siena & Florence
Package Price: $2,495.00 + $650.00* Departure Taxes and Fuel Surcharges
Inclusive, per person sharing a twin room, from Chicago
*Estimated Departure Taxes & Fuel Surcharges subject to increase 30 days prior to departure.
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Peter’s Way Tours Inc.
email: [email protected] • web site: www.petersway.com
500 North Broadway, Suite 221 • Jericho, NY 11753 • 800-225-7662 • 516-605-1551 • Fax: 1-516-605-1555
Dear Singers,
February 20 – 27, 2014 • Daily Itinerary
You, your friends, families and guests are welcome to travel to Italy as
part of the newly formed Chicago Pilgrimage Choir. Drawing on singers from the
Chicagoland area, we will form a choir for the purpose of singing in some of the
Church's most famous and sacred places, including Saint Peter's Basilica in Rome
and the Basilica of Saint Francis is Assisi.
We expect to have 8-10 rehearsals in late 2013 and early 2014, most likely
in the near west suburbs. Our efforts will be based on our previous work and
experience with the Archdiocesan Pilgrimage Choir of the Twin Cities. We, along
with our co-director Dr. Lynn Trapp, have led nearly a dozen choir pilgrimages
and we look forward to this Chicago endeavor.
We are happy to announce that Fr. Jan Michael Joncas will accompany
us as chaplain; he will preside at our prayer and Masses. We promise a trip that
balances music making, prayer and reflection, and the enjoyment of the rich art
and culture of Italy. Please join us!
Sincerely,
Michael and Wendy Silhavy
Directors of Music
*For more information, please visit www.pilgrimagechoir.blogspot.com
Day 1 February 20, Thursday: Depart for Rome
Today, depart Chicago O’Hare International Airport on your overseas journey when the US
Airways Jet lifts into the evening sky for your overnight flight to Rome via Philadelphia.
Complimentary meals and beverages will be served aloft.
(D,B)
Day 2 February 21, Friday: Arrive/Rome
Upon arrival at Rome’s Leonardo da Vinci Airport, proceed through Passport Control, claim your
luggage, and a Peter’s Way Tours tour manager will meet you upon your exit from Customs. As
your Rome hotel rooms are unlikely to be ready, board your comfortable motor coach and will take
you on an orientation tour of Ancient Rome and the “Eternal City.” History, evolving over 2,500
years, will be made visible for you by the Roman ruins, 15th century churches, 17th century palaces
and 20th century monuments. Independent lunch. Hotel check-in. Balance of the day at leisure.
Dinner and overnight at hotel in Rome.
(B,D)
Day 3 February 22, Saturday: AM/Tour of Vatican Museums; Sistine Chapel;
St. Peter’s Basilica – PM/Tour of the Scavi & Possible Evening Papal Mass (Feast
of St. Peter’s Chair)
After breakfast, begin your morning of sightseeing with a visit to one of the great art collections in
the world, the Vatican Museums. Walk in the footsteps of the Princes of the Church through the
richly decorated galleries. Continue on to the Sistine Chapel, the private chapel of the Popes, where
Michelangelo best expressed his genius in monumental frescoes. End your morning tour in St.
Peter's Basilica. Take in the awesome architecture and the statuary adorning this largest of all
Christian churches, including Michelangelo’s magnificent “Pieta.” Pray at the new tomb of
Blessed John Paul II, in St. Sebastian’s Chapel. On your own, with time permitting, you may wish
to go to the Vatican Crypt to see and pray near the tomb of St. Peter and where numerous pontiffs
are buried, among incredible works of art. Independent lunch followed by leisure time.
Return to hotel to freshen up.
Optional Tour of the Scavi*: The Scavi, or Vatican Necropolis, is the underground excavation
under St. Peter’s Basilica. In 1939, Pope Pius XII ordered an excavation beneath the grotto of St.
Peter's Basilica, where many popes are buried. Among the tombs of pagans and early Christians,
far beneath the high altar of St. Peter's, excavators found a shrine amid the rubble. Most scholars
concur that the small column is part of a second-century A.D. shrine built by Rome’s small
Christian community on the site where St. Peter was buried.
*All tours of the Scavi are subject to confirmation by the Vatican Office two weeks prior to departure. Tours
run continually, are one hour in length, and are limited to 12-15 persons.
Possible Papal Mass (subject to confirmation): Attend the Papal Mass in honor of the Feast of
St. Peter’s Chair. Independent dinner.
Overnight at hotel in Rome.
(B)
Day 4 February
23, Sunday: AM/Chapter Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica –
PM/Tour of Ancient Rome
Buffet breakfast at your hotel. This morning, you will be transferred to St. Peter’s Basilica for
the 9:00am or the 10:30am Chapter Mass sung by the Chicago Pilgrimage Choir together with
the Schola of Cappella Giulia. After Mass, photo opportunity. Then, you will be escorted to St.
Peter’s Square to attend the Noon Papal Blessing at St. Peter’s Square.
Then, free time for independent lunch with the afternoon at leisure for browsing, shopping or
exploring the sights of Rome. Hearty pilgrims may want to attempt to climb the 330 stairs (or take
the elevator) to the top of St. Peter’s for an unparalleled view of Vatican City and Rome.
This afternoon, we visit the Church of St. Peter in Chains to see the original chains in which St.
Peter was brought captive to Rome and the statue of Moses, one of Michelangelo's greatest masterpieces. Then, we continue to the ancient Roman Forum. See the Arch of Titus and the Arch of
Constantine and proceed to the outside of the Coliseum for a fascinating explanation of its history. Continue on to the grandiose white marble monument of King Victor Emmanuel II, often
called the “Wedding Cake.” See the Trajan Column and the Market (the
ancient Roman equivalent of a department store).
Dinner and overnight at hotel in Rome.
(B,D)
Day
5
February 24, Monday: AM/Tour of Christian
Rome – PM/At leisure for shopping and personal activities
After breakfast, begin your day with a visit to the magnificent Basilica of
St. Paul. It was built by Constantine in the 4th century on the site of St.
Paul's tomb. After having been totally destroyed by fire in 1823, it was
rebuilt on the original basilican plan of early Christian churches.
Surrounding the nave are the medallions of each Pope, from Peter to
Benedict XVI. Continue your tour to the Cathedral of St. John Lateran,
the first Christian church to be consecrated. It was founded by the
Emperor Constantine in the 4th century and was home to the Popes for
many years prior to the present Vatican residence. End your morning
tour with a visit the Basilica of St. Mary Major, one of the four major
Basilicas built by Pope Sixtus III (AD 432-440). View the impressive interior with its remarkable mosaics in the nave depicting scenes from the
Old Testament. View relics of Jesus’ manger from Bethlehem and the
high altar, which contains the remains of St Matthew the Evangelist. The
mosaics above the entablature are among the most ancient Christian
mosaics in Rome. End our morning with Mass at the Basilica of St.
Mary Major, sung by the Chicago Pilgrimage Choir.
Independent lunch.
This afternoon, is your opportunity to explore the sights, sounds and
tastes of Rome all on your own! Perhaps you will want to buy religious
articles in preparation for the Papal Blessing at the audience on
Wednesday. Or you may want to treat yourself to a leisurely multicourse lunch in a quaint trattoria. Visit the Coliseum or visit on of the
beautiful and lively Piazza Navona, with time to browse through the
artists’ stalls to buy a painting or just look...and a chance to buy one of
Rome’s most famous products, a “tartufo” (ice cream) at the Gelateria
“Tre Scalini.” This is the time to visit the local shops and street vendors.
Rome is yours! Independent dinner.
Overnight at hotel in Rome.
(B)
Day 6 February
25, Tuesday: Full-day Excursion to
Assisi – Visit the Sites of St. Francis
After breakfast, we leave on our excursion to Assisi, one of the high
points of any travel experience. After a two-hour ride, you will see
Assisi on a mountaintop—the narrow lanes, Shrines of Saint Francis and
overwhelming art dedicated to its young friar - a rich young man who
turned to God after an illness and established an order that has grown
stronger over the centuries. Visit the Basilica of Santa Maria degli
Angeli, a great Basilica built in 1569 and crowned by the magnificent
dome designed by Alessi. It encloses the shrine of the “Porziuncula,” or
the Little Portion Chapel, around which the first Franciscan community
was centered, the place where Clare received the habit from Francis, and
the Capella Del Transito, which marks the spot where the Saint died.
You will see the statue of Saint Francis in the courtyard where thornless
roses bloom. Continuing, we visit the Basilica of St. Clare, the first and
most important heroine of the Franciscan movement, view her remains
and see the miraculous Crucifix. Independent lunch.
This afternoon, celebrate Mass at the Basilica of Saint Francis, sung by
the Chicago Pilgrimage Choir. After Mass, our local guide will take us
to explore the Basilica complex, which is actually composed of two
churches built one atop the other. Beneath both churches is the crypt
that houses the tomb of St. Francis. The lower Basilica dates from 1228
to 1230, and is richly decorated with beautiful stained glass windows,
and paintings done by some of the most important artists of the 13th and
14th centuries. In the upper Basilica, built from 1230 - 1253, you will
marvel at the monumental frescoes painted by Giotto, which depict
scenes from the life of the saint. Independent dinner. Return in your
comfortable motor coach for overnight at hotel in Rome.
(B)
Day 7 February
26, Wednesday: AM/Papal Audience –
PM/Tour of the Appian Way & Catacombs –
Evening/Farewell Dinner at a Roman Restaurant
Breakfast at your hotel. You will, then, be transported into the heart of
Christendom for an audience with the Holy Father, Pope Francis. The
Chicago Pilgrimage Choir, will sing a selection for him when
announced during the English language portion. Independent lunch.
After lunch, begin an unusual tour of Rome and her outskirts as you
motor past the Tiberina Island, the Aventine Hill, the pyramid of Caius
Cestius, and St. Paul’s Gate, part of the Aurelian Wall, the ancient city
wall. Drive along a section of the Old Appian Way, one of the first
ancient Roman military roads, which connected Rome to Naples and
Brindisi on the Adriatic coast. You can see the huge slabs that originally
paved its length and several surviving Patrician tombs that once lined its
way, including the massive tomb of Cecilia Metella. Our next stop is the
Catacombs, the maze of tunnels hollowed out of volcanic rock, where
early Christians—persecuted by the Romans—secretly practiced their
religious rites and buried their dead. Celebrate Mass at the Basilica of
St. Paul or at the Catacombs, sung by the Chicago Pilgrimage Choir.
Your farewell dinner, this evening, will be at Benito Restaurant in
Rome. Experience an atmosphere of hospitality and friendship, and
taste the Mediterranean cuisine in a typical Roman setting with wine
and music.
Overnight at hotel in Rome.
(B,D)
Day 8 February 27, Thursday: Return from Rome
Breakfast at your hotel. Then, you will be transferred to Rome’s Leonardo da Vinci
Airport for your return flight home. Arrive on the same day.
(B)
Two-Day Optional Extension to Siena & Florence
$795.00 per person sharing a twin room; Single Supplement: $125.00
Based on a minimum of 25 participants
Day 8 February 27, Thursday: Siena & Florence
Breakfast at your hotel. This morning, leave Rome and drive through the gentle
Umbrian and Tuscan hills to the city of Siena. Siena, a city that is self-contained and still
rural in parts behind its medieval walls. Upon arrival, we will focus on the beauty of
Siena, where Saint Catherine (1347-80) lived as a lay-affiliate of the Dominican Order.
St. Catherine is well known for her intellect and mystical visions of Christ. Visit the
Basilica of St. Dominic, which contains the incorrupt head of this beloved Patron saint
of Italy. Our walking tour of Siena continues to the Cathedral di Santa Maria, better
known as the Duomo, enjoy a guided visit of the Duomo, a gleaming marble treasury
of Gothic art. Siena's Duomo was built between 1215 and 1263 in the form of a Latin
cross, with a dome and bell tower. Large in scale and ornately decorated inside and out,
Siena's cathedral is one of the finest examples of Italian Gothic architecture. The dome
was painted in dark blue with golden stars in the late 15th century, and is topped with
Bernini’s gold “lantern”. The exterior and interior are constructed of striped white and
greenish-black marble, with addition of red marble on the facade. The Cathedral contains valuable pieces of art including the “Feast of Herod” by Donatello and works by
Bernini and the young Michelangelo. It makes this Cathedral an extraordinary museum of Italian sculpture. Continue on to visit Piazza del Campo (Il Campo), the site of
the famous Palio horse races, built at the convergence of the city's principal roads, the
Banchi di Sopra, Banchi di Sotto, and Via di Citá. The market also used to take place
here. We will best experience the beauty of Siena by walking through its historic
streets. Perhaps you will enjoy relaxation and refreshment at one of the outdoor cafés
in the Piazza del Campo, surrounded by remarkable Patrician buildings.
Independent lunch. Wine tasting in Siena or at a nearby farmhouse.
Late afternoon, continue to the Renaissance city of Florence for hotel check-in.
Dinner and overnight at hotel in Florence.
(B,D)
Day 9 February 28, Friday: AM/Highlights of Florence; Academy of
Fine Arts – PM/At Leisure
After breakfast, our local guide will be ready to take you to visit the Accademia, which
holds the superb “David” by Michelangelo. Then, we continue to visit the beautiful
Piazza Del Duomo and the delicately patterned green, white and pink Cathedral of
Santa Maria Del Fiore, crowned with its magnificent Dome by Brunelleschi; Giotto’s
Bell Tower; the Romanesque Baptistry of St. John with the exquisite bronze doors by
Ghiberti, which Michelangelo called the “Gates of Paradise”; and the 13th century
Franciscan Church of the Holy Cross, which holds the Tombs of the greatest of
Florentine men. Independent lunch.
This afternoon is free to do as you wish. Perhaps you will visit the Piazza degli Uffizi,
flanked by the Uffizi Palace, which houses what may be the most important collection
of paintings in the world. Or, maybe you would like to visit the Piazza Della Signoria;
the famous shop-lined bridge, Ponte Vecchio; and the adjacent “Straw Market”; or shop
for leather, gold or other Florentine souvenirs. Independent dinner.
Overnight at hotel in Florence.
(B)
Day 10 March 1, Saturday: Return from Rome
This morning, you will be transferred to Rome’s Leonardo da Vinci Airport for your
return flight home. Arrive on the same day.
(B)
Unexpected circumstances may cause changes to the outlined itinerary.
Your pilgrimage includes:
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Round-trip economy class airfare on US Airways: Chicago/Philadelphia/Rome/
Philadelphia/ Chicago.
U.S. departure tax; Customs user fee; security tax and all airport departure taxes.
Meeting and assistance upon departure from Chicago O’Hare International Airport.
Six (6) nights’ accommodations in twin rooms with private facilities at hotels
throughout.
European breakfast daily plus four (3) dinners, including a farewell dinner with
wine and entertainment at Benito Restaurant in Rome.
Services of a government-licensed, English-speaking, Peter’s Way Tours tour manager/local guides from destination arrival to departure.
All sightseeing, as per itinerary, including overseas arrival and departure transfers,
in a private, air-conditioned, luxury motor coach.
Entrance fees to all sites, as per itinerary.
Porterage of one piece of luggage per person at hotels throughout.
Donations to churches used in programs.
Portfolio of travel documents for each participant, including a Peter’s Way Tours
flight packet.
Items not included in the package price:
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Health, trip cancellation/interruption or baggage insurance. All are strongly recommended. Peter’s Way Tours offers a comprehensive policy at additional cost.
Passport & visa costs, if any.
U.S. Passports must be valid for at least three (3) months subsequent to return date.
Items of a personal nature (hotel extras, laundry, phone calls, etc.).
Meals not specified in the program.
Gratuities to the tour manager, guides and driver.
Items not specifically mentioned above.
Date
Feb. 20
Feb. 20
Feb. 21
Feb. 27
Feb. 27
We are holding confirmed seats on US Airways from
Chicago O’Hare International Airport:
Airline
Flight
US Airways #1167
US Airways #718
US Airways #719
US Airways #799
Departure City/Time
Chicago ORD/ 11:55am
Philadelphia PHL/6:20pm
---------------------------------Rome FCO/ 11:40am
Philadelphia PHL/5:55pm
Arrival City/Time
Philadelphia PHL/2:49pm
-------------------------------Rome FCO/ 9:05am
Philadelphia PHL/3:50pm
Chicago ORD/7:18pm
Please note: Flight itinerary subject to change without notice.
PACKAGE PRICE IS BASED ON A MINIMUM OF 40 PAYING
PARTICIPANTS. IF GROUP DOES NOT REACH THIS NUMBER, THE
PRICE OR PROGRAMMING WILL BE ADJUSTED ACCORDINGLY.
ENROLLMENT FORM
Tour Code: 8710 - 2/2014
Chicago Pilgrimage Choir
I would like to take part in the 8-day pilgrimage with
Wendy Barton Silhavy & Michael Silhavy, Artistic Directors
Fr. Michael Joncas, Chaplain
February 20 – 27, 2014
Enclosed is my/our deposit by check of $350.00 per person
Deposit Deadline:
October 30, 2013
Final Payment Deadline: November 11, 2013
Please return a photocopy of this enrollment form
for each participant traveling with your deposit payable to:
Peter’s Way Tours Inc.
500 North Broadway - Suite 221 • Jericho, New York 11753
(516) 605-1551 • (800) 225-7662
If deposit deadline has passed, enrollment may still be possible. Please call to inquire.
Title: Mr.__ /Ms.__
/Mrs.__ /Rev.__ /Bro.__ /Sr.__ /Deacon__ / Other _________
Full First / Middle Name: __________________________________
(Exactly as it appears on your passport)
Last Name: _____________________________________________________
(Exactly as it appears on your passport)
Date of birth: (month/day/year)___________________
(Male__ / Female__)
Country of Citizenship:____________________________________
Address: ________________________________________________________
City: _______________________ State:__________ Zip:________________
Home Phone:_________________Business Phone:__________________
E-mail: _________________________________________________________
Roommate: _____________________________________________________
(Name of your preferred roommate)
Single Room:
(Yes__/No__)
Single Room in Siena & Florence:
(Yes__/No__)
($595.00 per person)
Optional Extension to Siena & Florence:
($795.00 per person, based on 25 participants)
($125.00 per person, based on 25 participants)
Peter’s Way Travel Insurance:
(Yes__/No__)
(Yes__/No__)
Travel Protection Plan payment: For a “Total Package Price” from $2,501.00 - $3,500.00
the cost of Peter’s Way Travel Insurance is $225.00 per person. See T&C for Land Only rates.
Pre-existing Conditions: Pre-existing conditions can be covered if your insurance premium
is received with your enrollment or within 21 days from the date of the Peter's Way Tours
"Tour Deposit Acknowledgement Letter".
Peter’s Way Travel Insurance Upgrade:
(Yes__/No__)
For an additional $100.00 you may upgrade to Cancel for any Reason: By purchasing
the Cancel For Any Reason upgrade, you can cancel up to 2 days prior to departure and
receive reimbursement of up to 75% of your total tour costs. Plan payment for the upgrade
must be received with your insurance premium at the time of deposit or within 15 days from
the date of the Peter's Way Tours "Tour Deposit Acknowledgement Letter".
I accept all terms and conditions as noted in this brochure.
Signature: ______________________________________________________
Acceptance of these
Terms & Conditions, with signature on enrollment form, is required for participation in this tour.
PAYMENT: Deposits and insurance payments will be accepted in the form of check or
money order only. In an effort to keep prices as low as possible, the package price
reflects a cash discount. However, it is possible to make your final payment via
MasterCard, Visa, Discover, or American Express. A $100.00 per person convenience fee
will apply to all packages paid by credit card. Invoices and credit card authorization
forms will be included with your welcome document. The credit card form must be
completed in entirety in order for the transaction to be approved. Peter’s Way Tours
reserves the right to increase package rate or reduce services accordingly should there
be an escalation in the Euro valuation over the U.S. dollar in excess of 5% from print
date. If for any reason payment is received within 21 days of departure, a charge for
express mailing of final documents will be required.
AIR TRANSPORTATION: Round trip from Chicago via US Airways. Flight itinerary
and carrier may be subject to change. Airfare is subject to increases prior to date of travel. By sending your deposit together with your completed reservation form before the
deposit deadline, airfare will be guaranteed against future fare increases excluding tax
increases or fuel surcharges. Tax and fuel surcharge estimation is based on increases
imposed by airlines is subject to increase prior to ticketing (approximately 30 days prior
to departure). (see LATE RESERVATIONS) Airlines will provide a block of seats for the
group. Individual requests for seating preferences can be made at time of check-in only.
If you are a member of the frequent flyer or affiliate program, please bring your account
card to the airport on the day of departure to receive proper mileage credit. Peter’s Way
cannot submit seating preferences or frequent flyer information as we cannot guarantee
that any or all requests will be honored.
ACCOMMODATIONS/SINGLE TRAVELERS: Price per person is based on two persons sharing twin bedded rooms with private facilities in hotels throughout your tour.
Triple rooms are available for family or friends traveling together. We discourage triple
room accommodations because they are normally not spacious and there is no discount
for triple occupancy. Triple rooms usually are regular twin or double-bedded rooms with
a cot or rollaway bed added. Single rooms are limited but may be requested at time of
booking for an additional charge of $595.00. While single rooms provide privacy, they
are often smaller than twin rooms. We honestly do not like to assess an additional charge
for the single traveler and will make every effort (if you so desire) to match you with a
same gender roommate when we receive your application, but we do not guarantee a
roommate can be matched. If a single room must be assigned due to your roommate's
cancelling, incompatibility or for any other reason (even at the last moment or while on
tour), we must charge you the tour's single supplement or pro-rated amount.
MEALS: European breakfast daily plus three (3) dinners, including a farewell dinner
with wine and entertainment at Benito Restaurant in Rome. Beverages (coffee, tea, mineral water) are not included at set menu dinners.
SIGHTSEEING AND ENTRANCE FEES: All sightseeing as per itinerary aboard a private motorcoach with the services of a professional, licensed, English-speaking guide.
Entrance fees to all sights are included.
DISCLAIMER OF RESPONSIBILITY: Peter’s Way Tours is only acting as intermediary and agent for the suppliers identified on this, or any accompanying documents, in
selling services, or in accepting reservations or bookings for services that are not directly supplied by Peter’s Way Tours (such as air carriage, hotel accommodations, ground
transportation, meals, tours, cruises, etc.). Peter’s Way Tours shall not be responsible
for breach of contract, bankruptcy or any intentional or careless actions or omissions
on the part of such suppliers, which result in any loss, damage, delay, or injury to any
traveler, travel companions or group member. Peter’s Way Tours shall not be held
responsible for any changes made in the schedule of liturgies throughout the pilgrimage or any changes in the Vatican Calendar and the appearance of the Holy Father for
the weekly Papal Audience or Papal Masses. Unless the term “guaranteed” is specifically written on the ticket, invoice or reservation itinerary, Peter’s Way does not guarantee any supplier’s rates, bookings or reservations. Peter’s Way Tours shall not be
responsible for any injuries, damages, or losses caused to any traveler in connection
with terrorist activities, social or labor unrest, airline strikes, mechanical or construction difficulties, diseases, local laws, climatic conditions, abnormal conditions or developments, or any other actions, omissions, or conditions outside Peter’s Way Tours control. By embarking upon the trip, the traveler voluntarily assumes all risks involved
with such travel, whether expected or unexpected. Traveler is hereby warned of such
risks, and is advised to obtain appropriate insurance coverage against them. Retention
of tickets, reservations or bookings after issuance shall constitute consent to the above,
terms and conditions and an agreement on the traveler’s part to convey the contents
of this disclaimer to your travel companions and group members.
LAND ONLY PASSENGERS: A passenger choosing the land only portion of the package ($2,145.00 per person, sharing a twin room ) must notify Peter’s Way Tours, in writing, 100 days prior to date of departure or a penalty fee will be assessed. Please be advised,
passenger(s) opting for the land only package or who are deviating from the group itinerary will
be responsible for their own transfers to/from hotel/airport. However, if you arrive at the same
time or earlier than your group, you are welcome to join the group on the bus. Additionally, if
you purchase your own air transportation and the group does not materialize or you cancel your
package for any reason, Peter’s Way Tours will not be held responsible for the cost of your airfare.
BAGGAGE ALLOWANCE: Due to bus space, one carry-on bag and one checked bag
per person are permitted. Standard airline baggage policies usually allow checked baggage up to 62 total inches and range to 50 pounds and carry-on baggage up to 45 total
inches and up to 40 pounds. However, policies may vary from the time of printing of
this brochure. Contact your airline directly before departure for current baggage dimension allowances. For luggage exceeding the allowed limits, excess baggage fees will
apply at check-in. Our final documents will contain current information applicable to
your designated airline.
TRANSFER AND PORTERAGE: Round-trip private transfers from/to hotel.
Porterage of one piece of luggage throughout your tour at hotels. We strongly suggest
that you travel with one suitcase and one carry on.
SERVICE CHARGES FOR ITINERARY CHANGES: Peter’s Way Tours is pleased to
assist clients with changes in itineraries (All deviation requests must be submitted in
writing at least 90 days prior to departure). Deviation fee will apply plus an airline
change fee per person. Your routing and dates requested will determine if a difference
in airfare will also apply. Not all carriers permit routing changes and/or deviations from
the group itinerary. Please contact our office for detailed information.
PASSENGERS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS: The majority of our trips require a lot of walking, which may involve stairs, hills, cobblestone roads and uneven pavement.
Additionally, most motor coaches are not equipped with wheelchair ramps. It is each
passenger’s responsibility to be aware of his or her limits with regard to travel and group
activities. Any person with a disability requiring special attention must advise Peter’s
Way Tours of the situation at time of enrollment. A qualified companion must accompany any passenger requiring special assistance. Peter’s Way Tours will make reasonable
attempts to accommodate disabled passengers with special needs, but shall not be held
responsible in the event we are unable to do so. Moreover, Peter’s Way Tours is not
responsible for the denial of services by any carriers, hotels, restaurants, or other independent suppliers.
LATE RESERVATIONS: A $25.00 fee and possible increase in airfare may apply for bookings received after the deposit deadline. All space is subject to availability. A $50.00 late
payment fee and possible increase in airfare may apply for late payments. Reservations are
subject to deadlines with airlines and various vendors. Special delivery charges incurred
will also be due in advance.
CANCELLATIONS/REFUNDS: From the time your deposit is received up to 130 days
prior to departure, there is a $250.00 nonrefundable cancellation fee per person. From 129
to 100 days prior to departure, the cancellation fee will be $350.00 per person. For cancellations received from 99 days prior up to the day of departure the cancellation fee will be
100% of package price per person including taxes, single supplement, deviations fees and
any other costs incurred (if applicable). (Travel insurance is offered as protection in case of
illness, please see TRAVEL INSURANCE). Tour participation is nontransferable. Names
cannot be transferred on reservations or airline tickets. Refund requests (if applicable) can
only be honored when submitted in writing to Peter’s Way Tours. All refund requests are
subject to cancellation restrictions as set forth above. No refund will be made for any
accommodations or services included in the tour that you do not use.
TRAVEL DOCUMENTS: All participants must have a valid passport. U.S. Passports
must be valid for at least six (6) months, subsequent to return date. Special entry requirements for non-U.S. citizens may apply. Please consult the appropriate Consulate for current
requirements. It is solely the passenger’s responsibility to ensure that all documents needed
are completed and current. Peter’s Way Tours will not be held responsible for lack of current and valid entry documents.
SERVICE CHARGES: All service charges and local taxes as imposed by hotels are
included in the program rate. Although service charges are included, it is customary to
leave Euro 1.00 per person for the waiters after each meal; Euro 1.00 per person per day
for the maid/bell boys.
TIPPING: For good work, recommended (but voluntary) tipping to your tour manager
is Euro 4.00 per passenger per day; to the driver is Euro 2.00 per passenger per day; for
the local guides Euro 1.50 per passenger per day. Tips for the tour manager and bus
driver are normally given as a group at the end of the tour. Other gratuities are usually handled individually.
TRAVELER HEALTH ADVISORY: All passengers must ensure that they are medically
and physically fit for travel and that such traveling will not endanger themselves or others
as Pilgrimages entail a lot of walking, climbing up/down stairs, etc. Any passenger who
is physically challenged must submit a certificate from his/her medical doctor stating that
he/she is capable of taking part in this pilgrimage without assistance. If special assistance
is required, the passenger must travel with a companion willing and capable of providing
any necessary assistance.
TRAVEL INSURANCE: It is strongly recommended that all participants buy insurance when they travel since the tour operator is not responsible for lost deposits,
damaged luggage or trip interruption. Peter’s Way Tours offers an optional
Passenger Travel Protection Plan. These benefits and services help insure the wellbeing of the passenger while traveling worldwide. The plan payments are based on
total package price, including taxes, fuel surcharges, single supplements, deviation
fees, late charges, etc. The plan payment for total package prices from $0 to
$1500.00 is $100; $1501.00 to $2500.00 is $175; $2501.00 to $3500.00 is $225; $3501.00
to $4500.00 is $250; and $4501.00 and over is $275. If the plan payment is made at
the time of deposit or within 21 days from the date of the Peter’s Way Tours “Tour
Deposit Acknowledgement Letter,” the passenger will be covered for pre-existing
conditions. However, the insurance plan can be purchased at any time thereafter,
excluding coverage for pre-existing conditions, until final payment has been made.
Plan payments will not be accepted after final payment has been made. All plan
payments are non-refundable. If you choose to extend your stay or embark on a pretour program, travel insurance can be purchased for an additional $4.00 per day.
Additional coverage needs to be requested. The insurance plan will not automatically be extended. The extended insurance plan will only cover pre-paid arrangements
made through Peter’s Way Tours. Land Only passengers can have their air arrangements covered for an additional $20.00 per person. The Passenger Travel Protection
Plan includes coverage for the following: trip cancellation/interruption,
baggage/personal effects, emergency evacuation, repatriation, accident/sickness
medical expenses, accidental death dismemberment & 24-hour Emergency
Assistance Services. These benefits and services are provided by Seven Corners, Inc.
Upon claim approval, reimbursement is up to 100% of the non-refundable payments
for your trip. Cancellation For Any Reason upgrade can be added to your policy for
an additional $100.00. This includes reasons for cancellation not otherwise covered
by the regular policy. You can cancel up to 2 days prior to departure and receive
reimbursement of up to 75% of the non-refundable payments for your trip. Payments
must be received for the upgrade with your insurance premium at the time of deposit
or within 15 days from the date of the Peter’s Way Tours “Tour Deposit
Acknowledgement Letter”. PLEASE NOTE: For complete details of coverage,
terms, conditions, exclusions, and pre-existing conditions for the insurance protection provided, refer to the Description of Coverage, which you will receive with your
travel documents. If you need further information, please call Seven Corners, Inc. at
1-800-371-0926 or 317-575-2656 and ask for Customer Service. Travel insurance is
underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company, Eatontown, NJ under policy
number FSG12-120116-01RT.