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We've given each of our tours a comfort rating and a tour pace, walking or cycling grade to give you a general idea about the level of activity on each tour and the standard of accommodation you will be staying in at the end of your day's adventure.
Often you'll stay in different styles of accommodation during your tour; so we make an average rating across the entire tour. For more information on where you'll stay each night, please refer to the day by day tour itinerary.
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The following excursions and/or activities are usually available and may be arranged locally. Estimated costs are provided below for guidance only, are on a per person basis unless shown otherwise, and may depend on the number of participants. Prices quoted are correct as of the date these trip notes were originally issued but may change at any time due to currency fluctuations.
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Tour Leader: At your discretion you might also consider tipping your Tour Leader in appreciation of the efficiency and service you receive.
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Local Currency: Poland Zloty, Slovakia Euro
Recommended Currency for Exchange: GBP, USD and Euros are accepted at exchange offices and banks.
Where to Exchange: Your tour leader will advise you on arrival.
ATM Availability: Your tour leader will advise you on arrival. Be aware that some ATMs will charge a 5% commission and out of the main cities they can sometimes be difficult to find.
Credit Card Acceptance: At most shops and restaurants.
Travellers Cheques: Travellers cheques can be difficult to change.
Up-to-date information re:global exchange rates can be obtained at https://www.currency-express.com/explore/
| UK | Poland | Slovakia | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tea/Coffee | £1.50 | £0.60 | €1.00 |
| Soft Drink | £1.50 | £0.60 | €1.00 |
| Bottled Water | £1.50 | £0.50 | €0.80 |
| Bottle of Beer | £3.50 | £1.50 | €2.00 |
| 2 Course Meal* | £15.00 | £10.00 | €10.00 |
| 3 Course Meal** | £20.00 | £15.00 | €15.00 |
| Bottle of Wine | £14.50 | £7.00 | €9.50 |
| Breakfast | £5.00 | £4.00 |
*Cheap local fare in a small cafe or restaurant.
**Typical food in a simple, reasonably comfortable mid-range restaurant.
It is a condition of joining any of our tours that you must have valid travel insurance. It must indicate that you have cover for (at least) medical expenses and emergency repatriation in the event of illness or injury. We also strongly recommend your policy includes cancellation protection as all deposit paid are non-refundable.
If you require travel insurance for your tour, Explore Worldwide is an appointed representative of Campbell Irvine Limited, who is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services authority. Our travel insurance policy is specially tailored to the needs of the adventure traveller and will cover you for any included activity on any Explore trip. You can either purchase this at the time of booking or call us 0844 499 0901 after you have booked.
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An entry visa is not required by citizens of UK, USA, CAN, NZ or AUS. Other nationalities should consult the relevant consulate.
All visa information is subject to change. You should confirm all visa related issues with the relevant Embassy prior to departure.
Nothing compulsory, but we recommend protection against tetanus, polio and hepatitis A. Tick-borne encephalitis is recommended by some medical sources if travelling in certain areas of Europe, at specific times of the year. Check latest requirements with your travel clinic or doctor prior to departure.
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The above is not an exhaustive list. Further information regarding vaccinations and travel health advice can be found by following the NHS and NaTHNaC links at http://www.explore.co.uk/Travelhealth/ and from your local healthcare provider.
Visa and vaccination requirements are subject to change and should be confirmed before departure.
Back to topWe strongly recommend that you check your government’s travel advisory for up-to-date information and advice about your destination: safety and security, entry requirements, health, local laws and customs, including advice re: the legality of and local attitudes towards same-sex relationships. For UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office Advice follow the link at http://www.explore.co.uk/Traveladvice/
Back to topGradient Chart
Summers are short in the mountains. July to August is the hottest period, when daytime temperatures average 20-22°C, though it may be much cooler in the early morning or late evening. Mountain weather is notoriously changeable and it can be cold at any time of year, so be prepared. Early and late in the season there may also be snow. Early July is the best time for flowers.
Seasonal weather patterns can be unpredictable. For up-to-date information on the weather worldwide please visit www.bbc.co.uk/weather.
Back to topTo assist with packing for your tour, we have detailed some of the essential items you should take with you.
Back to topUnfortunately it does occasionally happen that luggage does not always reach its destination on the same flight as its owner, or possibly it may be damaged in transit. If you are unlucky enough for this to occur, it is important that you file a PIR (Property Irregularity Report) with the airline before leaving the airport. This is essential when you come to make a claim either against the airline or from your travel insurance company
Back to topOne main piece of baggage and daypack. Total allowance: 44lb/20kg. Remember you are expected to carry your own luggage so don't overload yourself.
Back to topFor an exclusively designed Explore Trek Bag, follow the relevant link at www.nomadtravel.co.uk/explore
Back to topMountain weather is very changeable. A layering system is best for walking, with some T-shirts, long sleeved tops, a fleece jacket and a windproof and waterproof jacket is needed at all times. Waterproof trousers are also recommended and warm hat and gloves are essential at both ends of the season.
Back to topWell broken-in walking boots with a rigid sole and good ankle support are essential as much of the walking is on stony ground. Early in the season, some trails may still be snowy. Comfortable trainers/sandals for relaxing.
Back to topA torch, water bottle, good quality sunglasses, insect repellent and high factor sunscreen are all essential. Trekking poles are recommended.
Back to topThen we suggest you contact Nomad Travel, our equipment partner, who specialise in kitting people out for adventurous travel. You receive a special 10% discount in-store or online. Visit one of their stores, phone 0845 260 0044, or visit their website www.nomadtravel.co.uk/explore for further information.
Back to topParticipation in canoeing, kayaking, or rafting (including white-water) requires that you are able to swim 25 metres unaided.
Back to topSlovakia
Area: 48,845 sq km.
Population: 5.44 million.
Language: Slovak 84%, Hungarian 11%, Roma 2%, Ukrainian 1%, Others 2%.
Religion: Roman Catholic 69%, Protestant 11%, Greek Catholic 4%.
Local Time: GMT +1.
Electric Supply & Plugs: 230v 50Hz. European plug with two circular pins.
Recommended Maps: VKÚ Harmanec Edícia Turistick Máp No.2 Vysoké Tatry (2004), VKÚ Harmanec Edícia Turistick Máp No.3 Západné Tatry (2002), VKÚ Harmanec Edícia Turistick Máp No. 113 ‘Vysoke Tatry’ (High Tatras) covers the whole area, including Poprad and Zakopane (Poland) and shows all colour-coded walking routes. All are GPS compatible.
Recommended Books: Lonely Planet Guide to Czech & Slovak Republics, Bradt Travel Guide to Slovakia.
For comprehensive information regarding voltages and plug types in use in the countries visited, follow the relevant link at http://www.explore.co.uk/Traveladvice/
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