Includes: Roundtrip Airfare, Hotel, Tours, Transfers and More!
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Start Date: July 8, 2021
(Sailing July 16, 2021)
Explore the stirring coastline, rich history and idyllic countryside of the United Kingdom and Ireland. Begin your Journey in London with a welcome dinner to meet your fellow Enrichment Journey travelers. Then, make your way to Oxford and tour Blenheim Palace, one of the grandest estates in England. In Stratford-upon-Avon you will visit Shakespeare’s birthplace, enjoy a traditional English afternoon tea and attend an unforgettable performance at the famous Royal Shakespeare Company Theatre. Continue your travels north to Yorkshire, visiting Warwick Castle and the fabled Sherwood Forest along the way. Then, spend a day taking in the breathtaking views of the mountainous Lake District and enjoying a scenic cruise on Lake Windermere. You’ll visit Castle Howard, an 18th century Baroque masterpiece and one of the finest private homes in the country. From Durham, travel up to the border of Scotland and visit Hadrian’s Wall before settling down to a farewell dinner accompanied by traditional Scottish music and dance. Then, complete your Journey by sea, sailing through Scotland, Ireland, Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man and before returning back to England.
Visits: Azamara, Azamara Journey, Dundee, Invergordon, Greenock, Scotland; Belfast, Northern Ireland; Douglas, Isle of Man; Dublin, Ireland; Liverpool, Southampton, London, England, SPID 31763, 061620; 100120B
Start Date: July 8, 2021
(Sailing July 16, 2021)
Day | Port | Arrival | Departure |
1 | Arrive London – Transfer to Hotel, Welcome Dinner | ||
2 | London to Warwickshire – Tour of Oxford and Blenheim Palace | ||
3 | Warwickshire – Tour of Stratford-upon-Avon | ||
4 | Warwickshire to Yorkshire – Tour of Warwick Castle, Nottingham, Sherwood Forest and York | ||
5 | Yorkshire – Tour to the Lake District | ||
6 | Yorkshire- Tour to Castle Howard | ||
7 | Yorkshire to Durham – Tour of the York Moors and Durham | ||
8 | Durham to Edinburgh – Tour of Hadrian’s Wall and Edinburgh; Farewell Dinner | ||
9 | Edinburgh – Transfer to Leith for embarkation | — | — |
10 | Edinburgh (Leith), Scotland | — | 7:00 PM |
11 | Dundee, Scotland | 7:00 AM | — |
12 | Dundee, Scotland | — | 8:00 PM |
13 | Invergordon, Scotland | 9:00 AM | 8:00 PM |
14 | Cruising | — | — |
15 | Belfast, Northern Ireland | 7:30 AM | 10:00 PM |
16 | Greenock, Scotland | 7:30 AM | 8:00 PM |
17 | Douglas, Isle of Man | 7:30 AM | 8:00 PM |
18 | Dublin, Ireland | 6:00 AM | 10:00 PM |
19 | Liverpool, England | 7:30 AM | 8:00 PM |
20 | Cruising | — | — |
21 | Southampton, England – Disembarkation and Transfer to Airport | 6:00 AM | — |
**Please note that this itinerary is subject to change at anytime, including port of call changes. Please call a Personal Vacation Manager with any questions.
London, England
Day 1 – Arrive in London
Upon arrival at the airport, meet your Enrichment Journey guide, who will assist with transferring you to the hotel. After checking-in to your hotel, you will have time to relax, before meeting your fellow Enrichment Journey travelers with a welcome dinner. (D)
Note: if you wish to spend more time in London, ask your Personal Vacation Manager about the optional hotel extension – which will add one or two nights to your London hotel stay.
Oxford University
Day 2 – London to Warwickshire
After breakfast, you will depart London and travel to Oxford to take in the sights with an introductory city tour. The city is renowned for its colleges, such as Christ Church College at Oxford University. Possibly the most prestigious and grandest College at Oxford, it has produced more British Prime Ministers than any other Oxbridge College. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before continuing to Woodstock where this afternoon you’ll visit Blenheim Palace. One of the grandest and largest stately homes in Britain, Blenheim Palace was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987. The Seat of the Duke of Marlborough and the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill, Blenheim is the only palace in England that does not belong to the Royal Family. Transfer to Stratford-upon-Avon to check in to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the evening at your leisure. (B, L)
Stratford-upon-Avon
Day 3 – Warwickshire
Today you will delight in two of England’s most important cultural exports, Shakespeare and a traditional afternoon tea. Begin with a tour of Stratford-upon-Avon and William Shakespeare’s birthplace on Henley Street. As the third of eight children, William grew up in this house and returned to spend the first five years of his marriage to Anne Hathaway in the family home. Explore the house, garden, and specially commissioned artwork on this fabulously immersive experience. After touring the home, sit at a quaint café for a traditional afternoon tea as your lunch. With a scrumptious selection of sandwiches, cakes, scones served with jam, clotted cream and a pot of tea, this is truly an English cultural institution one cannot miss! Enjoy free time the rest of the afternoon.
Tonight, re-join the group for a theatrical performance at the famous Royal Shakespeare Company Theatre (subject to availability). The first Shakespeare Memorial Theatre opened here in 1879 but was destroyed by fire in 1926. A few years later, the new Shakespeare Memorial Theatre opened on an adjacent site. In 2007 it closed for a complete transformation and the Royal Shakespeare Company Theatre was officially opened in 2010 by Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip with a performance of Romeo and Juliet. This evening’s performance will be a special treat, as a visit to Shakespeare’s birthplace would not be complete without taking in a show! (B, T)
Warwick Castle
Day 4 – Stratford-upon-Avon to York
After breakfast, you will visit Warwick Castle. Situated on the bend of the River Avon, this motte-and-bailey castle was an important military stronghold until the 17th century. Following the castle, continue your journey north to Nottinghamshire to visit Nottingham and to see the famous Sherwood Forest, home of legendary Robin Hood. Later this afternoon you’ll arrive in York and check in to your hotel. This historic walled city was first founded by the Romans in 71 AD and later settled by the Saxons as well as the Vikings throughout its long history. Within its ancient 13th century walls, York’s medieval streets and buildings are beautifully preserved. The historic heart of the city is largely traffic-free, making it quiet, clean and perfect for this evening’s walking tour with a local guide and dinner. (B, D)
The Lake District, England
Day 5 – York
After breakfast you will travel to the Lake District, one of England’s most popular vacation spots. You will have a guided tour of this picturesque area to find out for yourself why this has remained a favorite retreat for centuries. Countless British writers, poets and artists such as William Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter have sought inspiration from the area’s bucolic scenery. Enjoy free time in the quaint town of Bowness-on-Windermere where you’re sure to find a charming pub for lunch and a pint. Re-join the group to take a cruise on Lake Windermere, England’s largest natural lake, to get a different perspective of the surrounding mountains and breath-taking natural beauty. After returning to York you will enjoy a group dinner. (B,D)
Castle Howard
Day 6 – York
This morning we will take an excursion outside of York to visit Castle Howard. Utterly spectacular, nestled in the Howardian Hills, Castle Howard is one of the largest country houses in England and was the filming location for the famed movie Brideshead Revisited. Upon returning to York we’ll visit the Yorkshire Museum, first opened in 1830. The museum houses five permanent galleries showcasing some of Britain’s finest archaeological treasures from the city’s Roman, Viking and medieval past. These include a Roman statue of Mars, the best-preserved example of a Roman sculpture ever found in Britain, the York Helmet and the impressive Middleham Jewel, a 15th century gold pendant with large blue sapphire stone uncovered in the ruins of a nearby Castle. After the museum visit, we’ll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before giving you the remainder of the day at your leisure. (B,L)
Durham Castle and Cathedral
Day 7 – York to Durham
Today we will depart York and continue our journey north towards Durham. We’ll stop for lunch at a local restaurant before arriving at The Moors National Park Centre to enjoy the unrivalled beauty of the North York Moors: miles of woodland, quaint farms and peaceful rolling hills of heather. The area was made a national park in 1952 through the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act of 1949. We will then continue to Durham and travel into the city centre for a guided walking tour. The city’s cathedral and the adjacent 11th century castle were designated UNESCO sites in 1986. The castle has been home to Durham University since 1832. Conclude the day with a traditional pint of ale at one of Durham’s best local pubs. (B, L)
Hadrian’s Wall
Day 8 – Durham to Edinburgh
After breakfast, travel up to the border of Scotland at Chester’s Roman Fort on Hadrian’s Wall. Ostensibly to protect Roman Britannia, in 122AD the Roman Emperor Hadrian began construction of a wall to extend the breadth of England. Continue to Edinburgh and enjoy a sightseeing tour while your guide explains the city’s rich history. This evening gather with your fellow traveler to reminisce over the past week’s events for a farewell dinner show truly showcasing the spirit of Scotland. (B, D)
Day 9 – Embarkation
After breakfast and checking out of the hotel, you’ll be transferred to the port of Leith for embarkation.
Day 10–20 – Cruising onboard the Azamara Journey (see below for cruise highlights)
Day 21 – Disembarkation
Enjoy breakfast onboard, then disembark the Azamara Journey in Southampton and transfer to the airport in London for your return flight home.
For meals not included in your land programs, all hotels chosen include a restaurant on property where you may relax and enjoy a meal. In addition, your guide is available to make suggestions on nearby dining, shopping or sightseeing.
Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh (Leith), Scotland: To discover Edinburgh, head to its historic heart with a walk down The Royal Mile. At the top, perched above the city, is Edinburgh Castle, home to the crown jewels and sweeping views. At the far end is the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Queen’s official residence when in Scotland. Buildings steeped in history line the route between the two, with most converted into shops, restaurants, and pubs.
HMS Unicorn
Dundee, Scotland: See why Dundee is referred as the City of Discoveries. A golf-lovers paradise, this is the birthplace of the game and the perfect spot to squeeze in a round. It’s also the ideal location to brush up on your naval history with a tour of the HMS Unicorn, a nearly 200-year-old ship from the golden age of sail to life. Afterward, relax by the River Tay and take in the views of Scotland’s hidden gem.
Culloden Battlfield
Invergordon, Scotland: A popular port of call, Invergordon combines a superb natural setting of mountains, tumbling waterfalls, rushing rivers, magnificent gardens, and serene lochs—including Loch Ness and its famous resident. Some must-sees include the castles Dunrobin and Cawdor (reportedly Macbeth’s castle), the flower displays of Beauly, Culloden Battlefield, Shin Falls, Inverness, and Glenmorangie Distillery.
Giant’s Causeway
Belfast, Northern Ireland: Stroll along the slipways where the Titanic was built and explore a stunning new museum dedicated to the ship’s famous, ill-fated journey. Set out from the city and explore the otherworldly landscape of the Giant’s Causeway, with its hexagonal natural rock formations. Wet your whistle at the Bushmills distillery or settle into a classic pub for a pint of Guinness.
Glasgow, Scotland
Greenock (Glasgow), Scotland: Glasgow is a lively and cosmopolitan city, making a name as a vibrant center of 21st century design, set against a background of exceptional Victorian architecture and state-of-the-art glass towers which house a growing financial services industry. The real Glasgow can be found in the pubs, where everything from the weather to solving the world’s problems are discussed over a pint.
Lighthouse in Douglas, Isle of Man
Douglas, Isle of Man: Take a trip back in time when you arrive in Douglas on the Isle of Man. Horse-drawn trams guide travelers through scenic sea-front streets just as locals have been doing since 1876. Visit medieval fortresses, abandoned castles (haunted by a ghost dog, as the legend goes), and the village of Cregneash, where residents live in authentic thatched cottages that harken back to a bygone era.
Temple Bar
Dublin, Ireland: There’s a story waiting around every corner in Dublin. Spend time in Temple Bar and watch the city come alive, take a ghost tour to discover Dracula’s unnerving connection to Dublin, and behold a view you’ll never forget from the Observation Wheel. Of course, no Irish adventure is complete without a trip to the Guinness Storehouse where you’ll learn the history of Ireland’s most popular stout.
Liverpool, England
Liverpool, England: A UNESCO World Heritage City, Liverpool combines contemporary and classic architecture, world-class golf, soccer, and horse racing, plus unique boutiques and shops that also make it one of England’s leading retail destinations. Stroll the famed waterfront, visit the Museum of Liverpool and the Walker Art Gallery, and pay homage to The Beatles at such iconic sites as Penny Lane and Strawberry Fields.
Pacing
Most days during the land portion will include full-day tours. The overall pace is rather quick, as there is much to see in these regions, however there is a healthy mix of both visits to historical sites and time to enjoy the landscape and scenery. Most days include two meals, allowing the third meal to be at your leisure. All hotels will have a restaurant on property where you may dine, then have the rest of the evening to relax. If you wish to go out, your guide is available to make suggestions for nearby dining.
During the cruise you will have a mix of relaxing days at sea and exciting days on land to explore the port cities. You may choose from optional shore excursions, which will allow for cultural immersion, exotic meals and numerous activities.
Physical Activity
The land portion of the trip should be considered active and includes a considerable amount of walking. Some or all portions of the city tours may will be led on foot due to the inability of tour buses into the medieval centers of these towns.
Enrichment Journeys will do everything in our power to ensure comfort through our third-party providers, including air-conditioned buses and comfortable accommodations where applicable. However, some areas cannot be accessed by coach, so our drivers will get you as close to sites as is legally allowed. Sensible, rubber-soled walking shoes are strongly recommended. Historical sites often do not have elevators, escalators or ramps due to the age of the building/structure. Steps can be steep and uneven. Wheelchair access at many sites is limited to extremely limited. Based on crowds and traffic, order of visits may be changed. A fold-up wheelchair may be able to be stored on the bus but requires prior arrangements. Motorized wheelchairs and scooters cannot be accommodated on this group program. Guests must be able to transfer from their chair to the transportation. Guides/drivers are not allowed to lift or push wheelchairs, so guests requiring physical assistance must travel with a companion who can assist. For the cruise portion of the trip, passengers will board and leave the ship up stairways and gangways, and you may have to walk a moderate distance to transfer to train, bus and car stations. Time spent on the road and traveling can be long, so you will need to be prepared for stretches of down time in between destinations.
Cultural Focus
You will encounter English dishes and ingredients typical to the region in addition to different British regional dialects. As the famous saying goes “The United States and Great Britain are two countries separated by a common language”, we encourage you to ask for clarification if there are any misunderstandings or confusion. Enrichment Journeys encourages an open mind when in unique situations and meeting people abroad. Sometimes the attractions and smaller cities themselves can be crowded, especially while on the cruise.
Unique Factors
If you have special needs or physical limitations, you will need to check in with your personal vacation manager before booking the trip. The temperature can vary between day and night, so pack accordingly with items that can be layered. Some guests may wish to have a light sweater or windbreaker with them. Heatwaves are unpredictable across Europe in the summer and therefore a variety of cool or warmer weather options are suggested.
Transportation
Included airfare is from select airports only. To inquire about a different airport, please contact your Personal Vacation Manager.
Enrichment Journeys is committed to providing remarkable experiences at extraordinary value. As a result, airlines and routes are selected to maximize that value and may involve multiple stops and extended layovers versus non-stop or direct flights. Passengers wishing to utilize specific carriers, direct/non-stop flights, Business Class upgrades, or to extend their time in any of our beginning or ending destination cities may do so by contacting Enrichment Journeys and inquiring about the Custom Airfare Program. There is a $50 per person charge for this service, however this charge will be applied toward any flights or upgrades you choose to purchase. The $50 charge must be paid prior to receiving a custom air quote.
Transportation while on tour:
London to Stratfort-Upon-Avon: 2-hour coach transfer
Stratfort-Upon-Avon to York: 3-hour coach transfer
York to the Lake District: 2-hour coach transfer
York to Durham: 1.5-hour coach transfer
Durham to Edinburgh: 3-hour coach transfer
Please note that these times are approximate and only reflect the transportation time. Our trip may be longer due to stops for sightseeing along the way.
Although this Enrichment Journey starts in London, the itinerary does not include much time in the city. With this optional extension you will arrive to London two days early, giving you time to explore London on your own before the start of the Enrichment Journey program. Note: tours are not included. Price of $375 per person, based on double occupancy, includes:
07/08/2021 | Retail Value | EJ Price | Savings Per Person | Single Rates |
Inside | $11,199 | $8,399 | $2,800 | CALL FOR DETAILS |
Oceanview | $11,465 | $8,599 | $2,866 | CALL FOR DETAILS |
Veranda | $13,332 | $9,999 | $3,333 | CALL FOR DETAILS |
Suite | CALL TODAY TO REQUEST A QUOTE |
Prices are in USD and are based on double occupancy.
Interested in the land program without the cruise? Pricing including Airfare is $5,499 per person.
Air Add-Ons | |||||
City | Add-On | City | Add-On | City | Add-On |
Atlanta | $350 | Houston Intercontinental | $350 | Philadelphia | $250 |
Boston | $200 | John F. Kennedy | $0 | San Diego | $450 |
Denver | $300 | Los Angeles | $400 | Seattle | $400 |
Dallas-Ft. Worth | $400 | Orlando | $250 | San Francisco | $400 |
Newark | $150 | Miami | $200 | Tampa | $300 |
Washington – Dulles | $200 | Chicago | $300 | Toronto | $250 |
Vancouver | $400 | ||||
– Business Class Air Available on Request – Additional Gateways Available on Request – Air Add-On Rates are subject to change without notice. While we try to include the most common airports by default, we have many clients coming from different parts of the country. If you desire air from an unlisted airport, you must first reserve your Enrichment Journey with one of the listed airports as your default gateway and then ask, or have your Travel Agent ask, Enrichment Journeys to provide a quote for your preferred gateway. |
All prices on our website and e-Journey Travel Guide are subject to change without notice. While we make every effort to provide you the most accurate and up-to-date information, occasionally, a trip or pricing category may be misprinted or unavailable at the time of booking. In the event of an incorrect price due to typographical, photographic, or technical error, or error in pricing information received from our suppliers, we retain the right to correct the price and to refuse or cancel any bookings placed at the incorrect price. In addition, all offers, prices, and conditions of sale may be subject to change without notice including tours, included features, highlights, minimum or maximum stays, itinerary, times in port, and/or other conditions/restrictions.
The following hotel list is preliminary and subject to change. Although we contract for hotels a year or more in advance, unforeseen circumstances do occasionally require a change of hotel. Should it be necessary to change a hotel, one of equal quality or value will be substituted and you will receive confirmed hotel information with your final itinerary.
Money Matters
How you handle your currency and financials while on the trip is up to you. Some people prefer to exchange all their money in advance, while others will rely solely on credit cards. Consider calling your bank ahead of time to make them aware of your international travel, especially when using cards or withdrawing money.
ATM Machines
These are often readily available, especially in major cities. Some will charge fees on top of what your hometown bank may charge for using ATMs abroad. Look for well-marked machines that have the Visa or MasterCard symbols.
Foreign Banks
Currency can be exchanged at most banks, if needed. Ask a local host or tour manager if there is a nearby bank that is open.
Credit Cards
During your trip, you’ll find that most major credit cards are accepted. Call your specific card issuer ahead of time to find out its limitations and benefits overseas.
Incidentals
Do be aware that some additional charges for mini-bars, laundry and room service will not be included in the tour package. Plan accordingly for these extra charges.
Packing Guidelines
Pack as simply as possible for easy transfers and customs screenings. Check with your domestic and international carriers regarding baggage guidelines, allowances, and check for additional fees. All bags will be screened before boarding flights and the cruise ship.
What to pack
Basics and layers are key to a comfortable Journey. Be sure to check the weather in the destinations you will visit, and pack accordingly. There are always unpredictable variables as well, so make sure you have one sturdy jacket and an outfit for a formal occasion too, just in case.
Here are a few key items to take on your trip:
Have back-ups for everything to avoid disappointment. Charge batteries in advance and bring extra film or digital memory cards. If bringing a high-end camera, consider investing in insurance to protect your asset.
Luggage Screening Process
To pass through screening, have liquids either in small containers and bagged, or in checked luggage. All valuables necessary for the trip should be on your person at all times, if possible. This includes medications and documentation. We recommend one main bag and a carry-on, per airline guidelines for weight and size.
Labeling
Have all your bags labeled with your name and address clearly marked. Add something to you luggage that is recognizable in the event your bags are misplaced. You may also consider marking your bags with “Enrichment Journeys” for efficiency.
Carry-on items
In many countries, including the US, large liquid containers are not allowed in carry-ons. On the way back into The States, food or agriculture items are prohibited. If you have questions about a certain item, visit www.tsa.gov for a list of items that cannot be packed.
Airport transfers
Airport transfers are included as part of your Enrichment Journey. Local representatives will advise you of the departure time from your hotel the night before departure. Generally speaking, arrangements have been made to have you at the airport approximately three hours in advance of departure, though this may vary depending on local circumstances. At the end of the cruise, an airport transfer will also be provided. Please advise your Personal Vacation Manager if you do not require transfer arrangements at the time of booking your Journey.
Cell phones
Some cell phones will work overseas, but incur additional charges for the use. Choose whether you would like to add an international plan by calling your carrier, or consider purchasing a pay-as-you-go phone overseas. However, in some destinations, many smartphones and tablets can pick up wireless Internet for free.
Protecting the Value of Your Travel Investment
Enrichment Journeys offers a comprehensive travel insurance package you can purchase alongside your trip. It eases the mind and lets you cancel your trip for a covered reason up until the departure date with a full refund of the Journey.
The insurance covers a wide variety of incidents, including travel delay, emergency medical services, and even baggage delay. You will also receive a pre-existing medical conditions waiver if travel insurance is purchased within 14 days of your initial deposit. For a full list of coverage provided, visit the FAQ section of the website.
Medical Issues and Handicaps
As with any extensive trip abroad, our excursions with Enrichment Journeys will require some physical capabilities, including transfers from cruise ships, walking on cobblestone streets and navigating through some busy cities with guides. Although we encourage all types of travelers to join us, we do ask you are aware of your own physical limitations. Unfortunately, we cannot provide individual care to those who may have walkers, wheelchairs or other aids. Enrichment Journeys also cannot accommodate pregnant women past their six month gestation period. Please speak with one of our Personal Vacation Managers to see if certain itineraries are suitable for you and your needs. We are happy to suggest other viable options for you that are more accessible.
Per the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act, travelers have the right to be reasonably accommodated in terms of tours in public situations. However, the laws do not apply for trips and outside the United States. So you must let Enrichment Journeys know ahead of time of any physical limitations, including information added to our questionnaire that needs to be filled out by all passengers. Failure to inform Enrichment Journeys of these limitations could result in refusal to participate, whether it be at the airport through the airline, on board the ship or at the accommodations booked.
If you have any sort of prescription medication, this should be a number one priority in packing. Bring extra, just in case. A small medical kit is also advisable for quick access to remedy minor aches and pains.
Briefing sessions
A local host or tour manager will be happy to guide you through the trip and answer all of your questions. Upon arrival to your destination, an Enrichment Journeys representative will meet with the group and go over items such as the daily schedule, weather and local customs.
Hotels
All hotels booked by Enrichment Journeys are held to a high standard of comfort and quality, in accordance to international accommodation standards and rating systems. However, each accommodation varies so you may experience various types of properties throughout your excursions.
Travel Documentation
Have your passport and visas ready and available at all checkpoints. Scan and copy these documents to print out. It is recommended that you e-mail a copy to yourself and someone back home in the event these documents are misplaced. Also, it may be worth bringing an international ID or license.
Passport and Visa
To travel internationally, you must have a passport in good condition, and it must be valid for at least 6 months after the last day of your trip. Visa requirements change frequently and for various reasons. As a result, our Personal Vacation Managers are not always able to provide visa information, and you should not rely on the information provided below to be the most current and accurate. The best way to obtain up-to-date information regarding visa requirements is to visit the official US government website for Americans traveling abroad, Travel.State.Gov, (Canadian citizens should visit https://travel.gc.ca/, for all other countries please visit your government website or local embassy), which details specific information on the countries you would like to visit, including visa requirements.
You may also use a third-party visa service, such as Expedited Travel. These services require an additional service fee but make the process of applying for a visa much simpler.
Note: as of August 2020, U.S. and Canadian passport holders traveling to Europe’s Schengen Zone will NOT have to obtain an electronic travel authorization (ETIAS) until January 1, 2022. Since this program visits Europe prior to this date, you should NOT be required to obtain an ETIAS. However, this is subject to change and Enrichment Journeys recommends all travelers to double-check this information as it gets closer to departure. More information can be found at https://www.schengenvisainfo.com/etias/
Vaccinations
Vaccinations are recommended to protect one’s health from preventable diseases abroad. It is always good to have routine vaccinations up to date when traveling for ailments such as chickenpox, measles, and the flu shot. Use your own discretion when deciding on what vaccinations to have based on your preferences and personal medical history. During your Enrichment Journeys tour, the utmost care will be taken with prepared food, atmosphere and other elements, so the likelihood of contracting diseases is scarce.
For a list of recommended vaccinations based on destination, visit https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel or feel free to contact the Center for Disease Control and Prevention directly at 1-800-232-4636.
Electric Current
You will need an adaptor for some parts of your trip. To see what the plugs will look like at your destination, visit https://www.power-plugs-sockets.com/ and click on each country from the right menu.
You may also need to use a converter. Most countries outside of North and Central America use 220-240 V, whereas the U.S. and Canada use 110 V. However, most chargers these days have a box which will act as a converter so that it can be used in all countries around the world. If your charger box says “Input: 100-240V, 50/60 Hz” then you do NOT need to use a converter (but you may still need an adaptor so that the plugs fit in the socket).
Some hotels may have two and three pronged outlets to use for various appliances. Ship cabins also have outlets for you to use with their converter. However, we recommend having at least one or two adaptors with you, as we cannot guarantee that all hotels will be able to accommodate this.
Local Currency
Ireland uses the Euro (€), currency code EUR
The United Kingdom uses the Pound Sterling, also known as the British Pound (£), currency code GBP
Please visit https://www.oanda.com/currency/converter/ for the current exchange rate.
How you handle your currency and financials while on the trip is up to you. Some people prefer to exchange all their money in advance, while others will rely solely on credit cards. We suggest having at least some local currency with you during the trip, at least enough to take a taxi if needed. Consider calling your bank ahead of time to make them aware of your international travel, especially when using cards or withdrawing money.
Tipping Guidelines
Tipping has become more common in the United Kingdom. Expect several instances throughout the hospitality industry that allow for tipping. Have small bills ready for hotel staff, restaurant servers, drivers, guides, and baggage handlers. If you have a meal outside the itinerary or take a taxi, a few Pound Sterling of 10-15% of the bill total is customary. Please note some restaurants will already add a “service charge” to your meal. If you are uncertain, please ask your server.
Gratuities are included for group meals, at hotels, and at airports. The host, guide, or tour manager can be tipped roughly $8.00-$12.00 USD per person, per day, as can any ship staff member (which is often split at the end of the day by all). Drivers can be tipped $5 USD per person, per day.
For more information about when and how much to tip in each country, feel free to speak with your tour guide at the start of your Journey. A good reference for international tipping is https://www.cntraveler.com/stories/2008-11-11/etiquette-101-tipping-guide.
Time Differences
Please be aware that you may be crossing through several time zones throughout your Journey. To view a time zone map, visit https://m.worldtimezone.com/m-index12.php.
Climate
With the tour covering various regions of Great Britain, you will most likely come in contact with occasional rain, wind and/or damp environments as well as warm to cooler weather. Check the weather online before departing for an up-to-date look at the conditions in major destinations.
Many countries outside of North America use Celsius. Here is a °C to °F quick reference guide:
-5° C = 23° F | 5° C = 41° F | 15° C = 59° F | 25° C = 77° F | 35° C = 95° F |
0° C = 32° F | 10° C = 50° F | 20° C = 68° F | 30° C = 86° F | 40° C = 104° F |
High/Low Temperatures in Fahrenheit:
JAN | FEB | MAR | APR | MAY | JUN | JUL | AUG | SEP | OCT | NOV | DEC | |
Dublin | 45/37 | 45/37 | 50/39 | 52/41 | 59/45 | 63/50 | 66/54 | 66/54 | 63/50 | 55/46 | 50/41 | 46/41 |
London | 48/41 | 48/41 | 54/43 | 59/45 | 64/50 | 70/55 | 73/59 | 73/59 | 68/55 | 61/50 | 54/45 | 48/41 |
Edinburgh | 41/34 | 43/34 | 48/36 | 52/37 | 57/43 | 63/48 | 66/52 | 66/52 | 61/48 | 55/45 | 48/37 | 45/36 |
Oxford | 45/34 | 45/34 | 48/36 | 54/37 | 59/45 | 66/48 | 70/52 | 70/52 | 64/48 | 57/45 | 48/37 | 45/36 |
Knowing a few phrases in the local vernacular can be a wonderful way to connect with people and feel immersed in the culture. Here are some key words and phrases:
UK and Ireland: English (below are some differences between British and American English)
Gaelic in Ireland
Facts and Figures
Check out these interesting facts about the destinations you will visit on your Journey.
England
Scotland
Northern Ireland
Ireland
Recommended Reading List
Vacation should be easy, peaceful and, most of all, completely stress-free. Let us handle the details, so you can sit back, relax and curl up with a good book as you count down the days to your next Journey! We’ve compiled the following list of books and movies to introduce you to the destinations you are about to visit.
Books
Travel Guides
Films
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