Answers to Your Travel Questions

FAQ

How do I register for a tour?
Download our registration form here. Feel free to call us in the U.S. at (346) 300-1246 with any and all questions you have about traveling with Buen Viaje Tours.

Can I choose my own travel dates?
Yes. We have some set departure dates and itineraries that take advantage of some of the best a country has to offer, but we also custom design tours for individuals, families and small groups based on special interests (i.e., birding, hiking, kayaking, organic coffee farming, photography, gastronomy, history)

Is it safe where we're going?
We have always felt comfortable traveling abroad, but we also take great care in staying up-to-date of security conditions and political climate. It should be noted that, relatively speaking, Nicaragua is safe and boasts one of the lowest crime rates in all of Latin America and we have never felt safer than in Cuba.

Do I need a passport?
Yes, you'll need a valid passport with an expiration date six months beyond your trip's return date.

Do you book flights?
No. But we can recommend Gomega Travel for both flight arrangements and travel insurance.

How will I know what to pack?
Once you have committed to a Tour, we will e-mail you all the necessary details: vaccinations, packing list, waivers, and country-specific information.

What about money?
Credit cards are accepted in most big cities and there is access to ATMs to replenish your cash supply. Actually, we recommend this method; it's easy and smarter than carrying big wads of money. Don't forget your PIN. It’s also a good idea to inform your credit card company of your international travel destinations, and tell them how long you’ll be in those countries.

What type of communication methods will be available?
With the exception of Cuba, wifi is prevalent in hotels and public spaces making it easy to use your own smartphone apps that connect you with family and friends. Check with your local provider to see what kind of coverage they offer while traveling outside of your country.

Do you accommodate vegetarians?
The short answer is, yes. The long answer is, your choices will be limited as in many places the cuisine is heavy on the meat. You may be eating a variety of salads and certainly the staple rice and beans in many countries. If you take one of our food tours, it will obviously focus on the eating experience, which includes everything the locals may serve.

What about health issues?
Buen Viaje Tours will take every step possible to keep you healthy and in the event that medical attention is needed we will ensure that you receive it promptly. You will have access to purified water, and food is generally prepared with careful attention to hygiene in most tourist restaurants and in the larger cities. If a medical need arises, there are local clinics and hospitals.

Bring all prescription medications you will need, and don’t expect to be able to find refills while traveling. Most over-the-counter medicines are available in local pharmacies, but we suggest you pack whatever you anticipate needing. As with travel to most developing countries, it's a good strategy to bring Imodium, a general antibiotic, pain reliever, and any other personal medical supplies. A small bottle of hand sanitizer is also recommended.

Mosquitoes are alive and well in many parts of Latin America so bring some mosquito repellent. DEET is still the best repellent. Some people prefer to see a doctor before traveling to obtain medical information about precautions against malaria, which is recommended by the Center for Disease Control.

Most importantly, be sure that your health insurance will cover you internationally; we will be making sure through our waivers that everyone is independently covered internationally. We’ll also ask that you disclose special physical conditions, asthma issues, allergies, food allergies, or anything else pertinent prior to departure.

Will I need any vaccinations?
No vaccinations are required for entry to Cuba, Morocco, Nicaragua, Colombia and Mexico, but we recommend a valid tetanus shot. It is also recommended by the Center for Disease Control that your hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, tetanus-diphtheria, and measles vaccinations are up-to-date.

How physically demanding are trips?
We generally travel at a moderate pace which allows you to enjoy yourself without becoming exhausted. Keep in mind that each group may include people with varied interests and abilities. If your group is physically able and interested, we have frequent opportunities for additional activities.

Even more important than your physical ability is a positive attitude and willingness to accept and embrace a different culture.

Are children allowed?
Yes, children ages 8 and up are welcome on trips as long as they are open to new experiences and able to adjust to an unfamiliar diet. We are experiencing an influx of adventurous families seeking to expand their horizons abroad.

Do I need to speak Spanish?
Spanish is the primary language spoken in Latin America. English is becoming more prevalent, but we think you'll enjoy your experience and better connect with people in Latin America if you're able to express simple phrases in Spanish. We recommend the following online resource: rojasspanish.com.