Frequently Asked Questions
What if my information is incorrect on my ticket or paperwork?
You must notify us IMMEDIATELY if at any time you notice a misspelling of your information. Please note that if your name is incorrect on your ticket, you may not be able to pass through TSA. You are responsible for providing us with your name as it appears on your passport at the time of registration. The Mandatory Liability Form will need to reflect your name as it appears on your passport. If you name is submitted incorrectly, you will be responsible for name change fees and any additional fees enforced by the airlines. It is imperative that the first name and last name appear exactly on your airline ticket as it is on your passport. If the only your middle name is misspelled or not included on your airline ticket but is on your passport, there is no need to worry or be concerned. Please contact us with this information so that we can add it to your airline record. The ticket will not have to be reissued and you will not be prevented from taking the flight.
Can I choose my airline seats?
Rules on airlines keep changing. The lower fares are the most restrictive. Some airlines do not allow you to receive your seat assignment prior to check-in 24 hours prior to your flight. Some airlines will charge a fee to select a seat prior to check in. If you are flying internationally, we strongly recommend against buying a Basic Economy fare, Not only are these fares the most restrictive, many do not allow free checking for baggage. Also, keep in mind that many fares are non-refundable and if you must cancel your trip, you will not receive a credit for this ticket. As unpredictable as airlines flights are these days, we STRONGLY recommend travel insurance.
Why wasn’t I seated with my companion or friend during the flight?
Some airlines do not permit you to book seats until 90 days prior to departure or except on the day of departure. You may go to the airline’s website to view your existing reservation and manage your seating requests. Common areas on the website include those areas such as ‘My Trips’ or ‘View Existing Reservations’ or ‘Manage My Booking’. When searching for your reservation, use your airline confirmation or reservation code when looking at the seating charts. Please keep in mind that BPP Tours has no control over airline seating.
Can I earn frequent flyer miles?
Yes, all travel can be posted to your frequent flyer mileage account. You will need to notify the airline prior to departure of your itinerary and confirmation/reservation code. This can be accomplished at time of airport check-in.
What happens if my flight gets cancelled or delayed?
It will be the responsibility of the airlines to book you on the next flight out of the country to your destination either with their airline or another airline. Please notify BPP Tours from the USA before your overseas departure with your new arrival time and flight number. This is important so that we can revise transfers or reschedule any other activities. If you are departing on a cruise or meeting a tour group, we strongly suggest you schedule your arrival at lease one day before you departure. This early arrival provides some leeway in the event your flight is delayed or cancelled. It also allows some rest and dealing with jet lag prior to beginning your trip.
What if I don’t seem to have enough time between connections?
All flights are booked with “legal flight connection times” set forth by the airlines. If you are unable to make the connection due to a delay or cancellation, the sole responsibility is with the airline for booking you on another flight with its airline or another airline. BPP Tours has no control over this. Please let us know if you need additional time in the airport so that we can arrange assistance.
What do I need to know about passport rules and regulations?
A passport needs to be valid for at least 6 months after the date of your trip’s departure. If this requirement is not met, you will be denied boarding at the airport. Please make a copy of your passport and carry it with you separately from your passport. In the event your passport is lost or stolen while oversees, a copy makes replacement much easier.
Do I need a Visa?
Visa requirements vary from country to country. We will endeavor to inform you if a visa is necessary. However, it is your responsibility to make certain all documentation is in order prior to the trip.
What additional forms or documents are required for the trip?
You are required by BPP Tours, LLC to complete a Mandatory Liability Form which is available on the website at https://bpptours.com/mandatory-liability-form/ . This is crucial for purchasing airline tickets. Airline tickets will not be purchased prior to the completion of this form.
What about medication?
BPP Tours, LLC recommends that all medication be in its original labeled containers, including vitamins, and placed in your carry-on luggage. DO NOT put medication in your checked luggage. In the unfortunate event of lost luggage, replacing your medication may be difficult. If you are a diabetic and require your vials to be refrigerated, please take a frozen icepack with you; place it and the medication in a waterproof container. The TSA does not require medication to be in labeled containers; however, some state laws do require this, therefore we recommend original labeled containers. If you need your medication refrigerated in your room, please notify us so that we can make the necessary accommodations.
Can I bring a curling iron or an iron for my clothes?
Irons and flat or curling irons are not permitted in the hotels as they are a fire hazard.
Should I bring Euros?
We suggest you bring 400 Euro cash per person.
In addition, bring your credit card and your debit card to obtain money at all destinations. Please notify your bank and your credit card companies that your will be traveling internationally. Also note that several banks now issue credit cards that do not charge foreign transaction fees. Among these are Chase, Bank of America and Capital One. You may wish to consider securing one of these cards for your travel. Please note that some American Express cards charge a 3% foreign transaction fee.
What adapters or converters to I need for my electronics?
The electricity in Italy is 220V. Obtain electric outlet adapter/converters specifically for Italy. If your plug is 3-pronged, please secure a suitable adapter. You may want to consider bringing at least two adapter plugs for charging phones, iPads, computers, etc.
What kind of clothes do I wear?
Comfortable, casual dress ONLY. Please, NO NEW SHOES. Also, please avoid heels. The pavement in Italy is often uneven cobblestones and heels can easily get stuck and broken.
Should I bring a money belt?
We stress safety throughout the tour. Please keep all bags, purses or backpacks close and in front of you at all times! Women ~ please bring purses with zippers and not open bags. However, money belts or fanny packs are strongly recommended. Many travel stores now carry purses with straps that cannot be slit. We also recommend RIF sleeves for credit cards.
Can I drink the water?
No! As a precaution, please do not drink the water. Bottled water is available at markets or at our hotel. We try to keep water available on the bus for purchase for 1 euro.
What is the weather going to be like for my trip?
Please refer to the following website for more detailed information: www.weather.com
What is the average cost of lunch?
The average cost of lunches can range from as little as $5.00 to as much as $25.00 or $30.00 per person depending upon whether you wish to purchase a light lunch such as a Panini or pizza versus a sit-down meal at an elegant restaurant. On average, the recommendation is between $10.00 to $12.00 per person.
Can I use Traveler’s Checks?
No. Traveler’s Checks cannot be redeemed easily overseas. With the ready availability of ATMs and the acceptance of credit cards, traveler’s checks are no longer necessary nor recommended.
Do I need health insurance overseas?
You should check with your health insurance provider prior to leaving the US to determine applicable international coverage and the information your will be required should you have an unfortunate experience and require medical care during your trip. BPP also strongly recommends you purchase travel insurance that will cover trip interruption, cancellation, lost luggage, and other travel misfortune.