What are the departure dates for the tours on the website?

There are no set departure dates for Absolute Travel trips because every tour is private, which means that you can depart on whatever day you wish. With very rare exception, every single trip on our website can depart on any day of the year.

Are these group tours?

Absolute Travel does not sell group tours. When we say our tours are private, that is exactly what we mean: the only travelers on your trip are you and the companions with whom you choose to travel. There is no fixed itinerary and no list of sights that must be seen in a given day. Touring is flexible and can be modified each day to suit your interests or energy level. The exception to this rule is on safari in Africa, because lodges operate game drives on a small-group basis.

Can the tours on your website be altered?

Our published tours are intended to serve as a "starting point" for the trip you ultimately end up taking. These suggested itineraries are based on our own expertise and destination experience. While it's fine to decide to take a trip exactly as it appears on our web site, most people prefer to work with one of our travel consultants to create an itinerary that meets their schedule, interests, and budget. Our staff is dedicated to working with you to ensure that the final itinerary is exactly what you want.

Is international airfare included in the cost on the website?

International airfare is not included because we have found that clients often prefer to arrange their own flights using frequent-flyer miles. However, in the event that you would like us to arrange your flights, we are happy to do so using our contracts, which offer attractive prices on business and economy class tickets. Please note that all regional flights and any other transportation during a trip will always be included in the cost.

What is included in the tour?

Our tours usually include all services from the moment your plane arrives at your destination, where the guide will be awaiting your arrival. All transfers, private touring, regional flights, accommodation, and visas are arranged. We generally arrange some, but not all, meals on the trip.

Why are all meals not included in the trip?

We understand that local cuisine is an important component of a trip and everybody has different tastes, and we have also found that our clients enjoy the spontaneity of discovering restaurants on their own. As a result, we intentionally do not include all meals in the itinerary. We will usually include breakfast on most days and occasional lunches and dinners. Your final itinerary will indicate which meals are included on your customized tour. We always provide a list of restaurant recommendations in your destination, so you do have some guidance (if you want it) for where to take your meals, and we can make restaurant reservations ahead of time at your request. In addition, your guide will be happy to recommend restaurants if you ask.

Will I have the same guide throughout my trip?

We use knowledgeable local guides who are residents of the area they are showing you. They are experts and can be trusted to give you the best experience possible. They know where to take you for the best view, which restaurants to recommend, and what time to visit a popular attraction to avoid the crowds. Because we use local guides, you will usually have a new guide for each city or region. Though your guide may change, the quality of the touring will be consistent, and you can count on the guides to always be friendly, professional, and knowledgeable. Guides are pleased to answer any and all questions -- in fact, our guides frequently tell us that Absolute Travel clients are their favorites, because our clients are curious travelers that truly enjoy learning about new cultures!

Do you arrange my visas?

We are happy to arrange the necessary visas for your travel but it is sometimes more efficient or necessary for clients to arrange them on their own or they are issued upon arrival. Please talk to your travel specialist and be sure you understand whether we will be obtaining your visa or if you are expected to obtain it on your own.

Can an itinerary be designed that balances luxury and 'off-the-beaten-track' experiences?

"Off-the-beaten-track" means different things to different people, and there are a variety of ways to experience local culture. Whether you simply want to spend a day driving through the countryside or if you're looking for something more rigorous -- such as a remote trek in Bhutan or canoeing in Papua New Guinea -- we will do our best to accommodate your interests and desired level of comfort.

How does the planning process work?

You will work closely with one of our travel specialists to design the trip of your dreams. Our travel specialists are experts and have traveled extensively to stay up to date on our destinations, and they will offer plenty of advice and suggestions to make sure your trip is exactly right. They are passionate about travel and are dedicated to making sure that your travel experience exceeds your expectations. To give you the best possible trip, however, they must be aware of what you want - it is best to be as clear and honest as possible, so that they have all the information they need to plan the right itinerary. As in any relationship, communication is key: do not be afraid to ask questions and voice concerns or desires.

What distinguishes Absolute Travel from other tour operators?

Our company has been dedicated to the art of travel since 1989. During that time, we have developed a sterling reputation based on our commitment to customer satisfaction and general excellence. We are very proud of our travel industry experience, destination knowledge, and highly personalized service. In 2002, we were pleased to become a Preferred Supplier for Virtuoso, a highly respected members-only travel industry consortium. Unlike many big tour operators that sell large volumes of "by-the-numbers" trips, we sell to a select group of travelers who are looking for a highly personalized experience, from the planning stage until the completion of the trip. In short, we create a unique, customized itinerary for every single client, every time.

Does Absolute Travel work with travel agents?

Absolute Travel works closely with travel agents but we also take clients who contact us directly. If you have a relationship with a travel agent, please ask them to contact us for more information; if you do not have an existing relationship with a travel agent and prefer to work with us directly, call us to speak with one of our travel specialists.