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Here are some of our most frequently asked questions, if you have any queries that are not covered here or on the rest of the site, don’t hesitate to contact us.
Choose from the subjects below:
ABOUT MY HOLIDAY
What's included in the price of my holiday?
To find out exactly what is included in the price of your holiday please click on the following link 'What's Included in your 'Walking Holiday'
What do I need to take?
The most important item to take with you is a pair of comfortable walking shoes or boots appropriate to your grade of walking holiday. Your holiday information will indicate if you need any other items, for example, walking aids or sleeping bags. You should also think about all the other essentials you will need to take, such as travel documents and health remedies according to your destination.
I'd like to bring my family. Are these holidays suitable for under-16's?
The holidays on our Worldwide programme are not usually recommended for under -16s but there are always exceptions, just call our Reservations Team to discuss your individual requirements. We have, however, developed a new programme where the walks and activities are designed for family groups - please follow this link for more information www.ramblersfamilyadventures.co.uk/
Please also see 'Who can enjoy walking holidays'.
I'm over 75. Can I still take part?
If you are fit enough for our holidays there is no age limit! However, for safety and insurance reasons, we will usually require confirmation from your doctor that you are medically fit to join our holidays. Please also see 'Who can enjoy walking holidays'.
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Walking and Grades
How far will I walk every day?
This really depends on the grade of your holiday, but ranges from 3 hours a day on E grade and Sightseeing holidays to 8 hours a day on a B grade holiday.
Do I need to walk every day?
No. There is no obligation to join the leader’s proposed arrangements in centre based holidays (we prefer to keep some flexibility and informality on our holidays) although we would ask that you keep the leader informed of your plans if you intend to do an independent walk. On some holidays such as hutting however, there is the need to move from one place to another!
Will there be any opportunities to swim?
Yes, sometimes - it depends where you are! Some holidays offer the opportunity for beach swimming or some hotels or resorts may have pools. You will be able to find more information about your specific holiday in the Holiday Information sheets issued with confirmation of booking. See 'Where we Stay'.
How big are the walking groups?
In general, groups consist of 12 – 20 people.
Will I have any free time?
Most of our holidays have ‘rest’ days or free time scheduled into the itineraries. If you want to arrange to do something outside of the itinerary, just let your leader know you won’t be joining them that day.
I've never been on a walking holiday before. Will I be fit enough?
Almost anyone can enjoy one of our walking holidays. Our walking grade system will give you an idea of the intensity of your chosen holiday – most people start on an E or D grade holidays which require a level of general everyday fitness.
How can I prepare for a walking holiday?
Again, it depends on your chosen holiday as to whether it’s a good idea to do some fitness preparation. For easier holidays, a general level of everyday fitness is required, but for higher-grade holidays it might be a good idea to do some practise walks of the same length before you leave, just to ensure your muscles are ready!
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Specialised Walking Holidays
I'm interested in a trekking holiday. Will I have to put my own tent up every day?
No. On arrival at camp you will find the trekking crew have put your tent up, put your bag in the tent and have the kettle on for a cup of tea and a biscuit.
What are the washing facilities like on trekking holidays?
For washing facilities, each morning the trekking crew will bring you a bowl of hot water so you can have a wash in the tent (bring your own flannel). On the campsite, the toilets are simple holes dug in the ground with a tent around so you have complete privacy. Outside the tent the crew leave a large bowl of potassium permanganate solution for washing hands afterwards. On breaking camp, the crew will fill in the hole, so the process is as environmentally friendly as possible.
On holidays in Nepal where we stay in Tea Huts (Joys of Nepal), some have showers though not always a supply of hot water. These also have toilets but are rarely plumbed in with a flush.
What are meals like on trekking and hutting holidays?
Hot meals are cooked for you every day and a picnic lunch will be provided for your day’s walking.
Please click on these links for more information about our trekking or hutting holidays.
If I book a sightseeing holiday, do I have to do all the excursions?
Itineraries are flexible, so if you want to go off on your own for a day, just let your leader know and enjoy your day exploring! How much should I allow for entrance fees and optional excursions?
Local transport costs and entrance fees for your particular holiday will be indicated in the Holiday Information sheet issued with your booking confirmation but, as a guideline, think in terms of an average of around £40 per week.
Optional excursion costs will vary depending on where you are and the type of excursion. Please contact us for details or see our Holiday Information sheet for some guidance.
Read more about our Walking and Sightseeing Holidays.
How much walking is involved in the Cruise and Walk Holidays?
Cruise and Walk holidays involve lower grade walking, usually at E or D grades.
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Travel Arrangements
Can I extend my holiday?
Many of our clients like to ‘bolt-on’ a mini independent package to their holiday with an extra stay at our hotel(s) at the start or end of the stated holiday dates.
We can usually offer extra hotel nights at an advantageous rate, and many of the airlines we use allow some flexibility if arranged more than three months before departure, enabling us to change flights for a small charge. Please call 01707 331133 for details or see our Travel page.
We also have requests, especially on our long-haul holidays, from clients who want to travel back later than the group so that they can add in some time to visit family or friends. We can usually accommodate these requests if we know in good time. Please call our Travel Department on 01707 386732 for more details.
Can I make my own travel arrangements?
If you wish to organise your own flights from a non-UK or provincial airport, or travel by rail or car to the holiday centre, ‘no-travel’ reductions are usually available. Please call 01707 331133 for details or see our Travel page.
Can I upgrade my travel arrangements?
Yes. It is generally easy to upgrade flight or rail seats. Many of the airlines offer this facility at an extra charge if we give them sufficient notice. Follow this link for further details on cabin classes on British Airways or contact our Travel Department on 01707 386732. It may also be possible to upgrade your cabin on our Cruise and Walk holidays. For more details of this, please contact our Reservations Department on 01707 331133.
Where can I get information on airport parking and hotels close to UK airports?
Please click on our Airport Parking and Hotels link for further information.
Where can I get information about security measures at UK airports?
Please click on our Airport Information link.
How is my holiday protected?
Ramblers Worldwide Holidays is bonded with or regulated by the following travel authorities, which ensure you get a holiday you can trust.
The air holidays packages shown are ATOL Protected, since we hold an Air Travel Organiser's Licence granted by the Civil Aviation Authority. Please see our booking conditions for more information. ATOL protection extends primarily to customers who book and pay in the United Kingdom. ATOL protection does not apply to all holiday and travel services shown on this website. Please ask us to confirm what protection may apply to your booking.
Ramblers Holidays Limited is a member of ABTA with membership number V5094. ABTA and ABTA members help holiday makers to get the most from their travel and assist them when things do not go according to plan. We are obliged to maintain a high standard of service to you by ABTA's Code of Conduct. For further information about ABTA, the Code of Conduct and the arbitration scheme available to you if you have a complaint, contact ABTA 68 - 71 Newman Street, London W1T 3AH Tel: 020 7637 2444 or visit www.abta.com . The above applies only to services supplied by Ramblers Holidays Limited and does not apply to services featured on this website that are provided by Fortis Insurance Limited or any other company.
Ramblers Holidays Limited is a member of AITO; we abide by the Association's Code of Business Practice and adhere to the AITO Quality Charter - see page 5 for details.
We are also an accredited IATA Agent.
We are also registered under the Data Protection Act. In order to process your booking and to ensure that your travel arrangements run smoothly, we need to use the information you provide such as name, address, any special needs/dietary requirements etc.
We take full responsibility for ensuring that proper security measures are in place to protect your information. We must pass the relevant information on to the relevant suppliers of your travel arrangements such as airlines, hotels, transport companies etc. The information may also be provided to security or credit checking companies, public authorities such as customs/immigration if required by them or as required by law.
Where your holiday is outside the European Economic Area (EEA), controls on data may not be as strong as the legal requirements in the UK. We will not pass any information on to any person not responsible for part of your travel arrangements, unless required by law eg. customs and immigration authorities. This applies also to any sensitive information that you give us. In making this booking, you consent to this information being passed on to the relevant persons.
We will also hold your information to send you brochures or inform you of offers in the future, but will not pass this on to anyone else for marketing purposes.
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Safety on holiday
Safety of our clients is paramount and we do monitor local events. We are guided by the Foreign Office advice and also liaise very closely with any local agents in situ. If we feel it is necessary to modify an itinerary we will do so and naturally advise you immediately, although this is rare. Every attempt will be made to safeguard your holiday arrangements.
You should be aware of potential hazards on holiday as walking amongst mountains, hills and even in cities does involve an element of risk. Terrain underfoot can vary and you may find walking poles a great aid to mobility over uneven ground. As the tour leader is responsible for the safety of all group members, he or she may adopt a more cautious approach depending on local conditions. Do be aware that itineraries planned for some holidays and treks may be varied on the spot because of unexpected events - weather conditions; the availability of campsites or hut accommodation; and even the ability of party members.
The final decision for any change rests with our leader. Ramblers Worldwide Holidays cannot be held responsible for disruption to planned itineraries arising from weather conditions or situations beyond our control, such as earthquakes or political unrest, but every effort will be made to provide alternative activities and to ensure that you have the best possible holiday.
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Cross-Country or Downhill Skiing
Do I need any experience for your cross-country or downhill skiing holidays?
Not always! We offer skiing holidays at a variety of levels. For example, you don’t necessarily need any experience for a cross-country skiing holiday (just a sense of adventure!) as some tuition is included. We also offer downhill skiing in France for competent skiers who are able to safely control their speed and turns on red runs.
Is ski equipment hire included on your holidays? Can I take my own?
Cross-country ski equipment hire is included in the holiday cost but downhill skiing equipment is not included. If you wish to take your own ski equipment, this is fine, but please advise us in advance, as we need to inform the airline.
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Accommodation and Meals
What are your hotels like?
We hand-pick accommodation, as unique as our holidays, to give you an authentic experience of the destinations we visit and that suit the style of walking holiday you are taking. Whether you have chosen a single or multi-centre holiday, hotel accommodation will be single or twin-bedded rooms, with a shower and WC. Your holiday description will give you further details.
Are there tea-making facilities and hairdryers in the rooms?
Sometimes but not always – check your holiday information for more details.
Are meals included?
Meal arrangements are specified in each holiday description. Most are half board, which includes breakfasts (usually continental) and evening meals, either at the hotel or in a local restaurant. See your individual holiday description for more details.
I follow a special diet, can you accommodate me?
Please contact us if you have any particular dietary needs - we are able to accommodate some requests but we cannot make any guarantees. Our Reservations Team will be able to advise you further according to your destination, so please call them on 01707 331133 to discuss your needs before booking.
Do I have to join the group for a meal every evening?
No, there is no obligation to do so (although it would be unusual not to!).
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Leaders
What do your leaders do and what qualifications do they have?
Each holiday is accompanied by a Ramblers Worldwide Holidays leader who is qualified in first aid, usually familiar with the local language and who may have some knowledge about that particular destination. They will have undergone training by us and will hold a walking leadership qualification. They will also undertake all the local administration and organisation in planning and leading your itinerary, helping you to get the most out of your holiday. On most holidays, the tour leader takes one rest day a week, allowing you a free day too!
Friendly and passionate about walking, they are there to answer any questions and help with any problems you have during your holiday. You can rest assured they are the perfect people to help you get the most out of your trip!
Do I have to follow the leader’s itinerary every day?
No, if you’d like to explore on your own you are free to do so – just let your leader know that you won’t be accompanying the group on certain days.
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Single Travellers
I’m travelling alone - will I fit in?
Many single travellers holiday with us. Our holidays are renowned for being extremely friendly and single travellers have no problems fitting in – everyone is there to share a passion for walking and it is likely that you'll make lifelong friends.
What’s the average age on a Ramblers Worldwide Holiday?
Age ranges on our holidays vary. Our holidays are completely open to everyone and we welcome travellers in their 20s and upwards – there’s no age limit! Each holiday group make-up will be different, but if you like we can advise on the age ranges within your holiday group when you book, to ensure you feel completely comfortable, or try and match you up with a group of a similar age range if possible.
Do you charge single supplements?
Most hotels we use charge a single supplement, please refer to individual holiday details for more information.
Can I share a room?
Yes, we can arrange this. If you’re willing to share a twin room with another group member of the same sex, we can accommodate this on most holidays; simply talk to our Reservations Team on 01707 331133. Please note that when booking to share you are agreeing to a no smoking policy and reasonable norms of behaviour.
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Groups
Can you take bookings from private groups?
We have a team dedicated to organising holidays for larger groups who want to holiday together on a specific walking programme. We can help with advice on choice of destination from our wide range of exciting holidays, and if the brochured arrangements do not suit you, we will do our best to adapt the holiday to your needs.
What sort of groups book with you?
Walking groups, social groups, groups with hobbies such as bird watching or history, or simply larger groups of friends who want to book a holiday together.
What’s the minimum number of people needed to book a private group holiday?
This can vary depending on the centre chosen; please contact Andrew Gilkison on 01707 386723 or email andrewg@ramblersholidays.co.uk
Is there a discount for group bookings?
On virtually every special Group Holiday we offer a discount, which will vary according to the destination - normally a reduction of 5% providing the group consists of at least 15 people.
What happens if somebody in my party has to cancel?
This really depends on when the cancellation takes place; the first thing to do is contact us as soon as possible so that we can advise you of any options. Generally cancellation fees increase nearer to the departure date but it is sometimes possible to transfer your booking to another party member (depending on how close to the departure date and any airline/hotel restrictions). Any incurred costs would be payable.
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Insurance
Do I need special insurance for a walking holiday?
There’s only one thing worse than having to make an insurance claim for some misfortune that may have occurred on holiday – and that’s not being able to make a claim because you’re not properly insured.
At Ramblers Worldwide Holidays we understand this. Comprehensive travel insurance is a necessity should you become unwell, either before or during your holiday. It not only protects you financially, it ensures the quality of overseas medical care is of a standard you would expect. It also covers emergency repatriation, should it be deemed necessary.
When embarking on an activity holiday such as with Ramblers Worldwide Holidays, it is even more important that your insurance cover level is right. Many insurers have particular exclusions within their policies, which is why we offer a policy that is tailored to walking holidays. Whether giving on-the-spot assistance (anywhere in the world) or helping you to settle your claim, you will find our cover hard to beat. Don’t forget, you cannot participate in our holiday programmes without adequate travel insurance.
What am I covered for if I take out Ramblers Worldwide Holiday Insurance?
We take the issue of travel insurance so seriously that we have arranged a policy through Fortis Insurance Limited, specifically designed to protect you and your holiday. You can Download our Insurance Policy, please make sure you read the declaration on page 2 of this document before calling the Medical Helpline.
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Charity
Many large organisations work with charities, can you tell me whether Ramblers Worldwide Holidays does any charitable work?
By holidaying with Ramblers Worldwide Holidays, you are directly supporting our own Charitable Trust, set up as an offshoot of the Ramblers Association, where all profits not needed for the safe running and development of the company are ploughed back into our environment.
Please follow this link to read more about the work of Ramblers Holidays Charitable Trust in the UK and abroad.
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Responsible Tourism
With so much talk these days about Responsible Tourism, can you tell me what is Ramblers Worldwide Holidays' policy?
The well-known saying, "take only photographs, leave only footprints" is certainly true. However, we try to ensure that we tread only softly in all the countries we visit. Since our earliest holidays over 60 years ago, we have been committed to ethical tourism in all our destinations.
Travel enriches lives and boosts communities who rely on tourism as their main economy. However, with increasing air travel and more people than ever travelling the globe, mass tourism inevitably brings with it some negative repercussions. Issues such as global warming, degeneration of local environments, and the overwhelming of communities and cultures, mean it is important that we work to help slow the pace of these damaging effects and keep our world a beautiful place.
Our holidays are designed to enable travellers to discover the essence of the country they are visiting. Travelling in small groups not only gives you an 'up close and personal' experience of your destination, but minimises impact on the immediate environment. We feel that the most important starting point to protect the environment is to be ‘out in it’. Without being out there and having an awareness of its beauty, importance and vulnerability, there is no understanding or sense of loss when it is threatened.
- We aim to operate within the Travellers' Code set out by the Friends of Conservation and we try to ensure our holidays give consideration to local people and cultures.
- Where possible, our tour leaders are familiar with local language and customs and we often use local guides, transport, porters and food to benefit the local economy without exploitation.
- We try not to insulate you too much from the realities of local life and allow you to experience something different; the reason you probably go on holiday in the first place.
- We like to develop long-term relationships with our destinations, hoteliers and other local suppliers. In order to achieve this, it is vital that we take care of the places we visit and support the people we work with overseas to ensure that we can all keep enjoying these destinations year after year.
- We also help to put something back into the communities we visit by funding various environmental projects overseas and in the UK. See our section on Ramblers Holidays Charitable Trust for more information.
- Closer to home, we've installed a full size waterwheel at our riverside office and generate our own electricity to light our building and to power our computers. We recycle our office paper, use environmentally friendly cleaning products and operate a 'green travel' system to get our staff to and from work.
Follow this link to see what you can do as a Responsible Tourist.
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