FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS FOR CRUISES
Footsteps of Paul Cruise/Tours FAQs
What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellation in writing must be received by Rishon World Tours 91 days prior to departure for refund of deposit minus service fees. Airline penalties are not part of the percentages below and vary based on the airline policy at the time of ticket issue.
91+ Days Prior: $100 Per Person Service Fee
90-61 Days Prior: 25% of tour cost lost
60-46 Days Prior: 40% of tour cost lost
45-31 Days Prior: 65% of tour cost lost
30-8 Days Prior: 85% of tour cost lost
7 Days Prior or less: 100% of tour cost lost
Group airfare is non-refundable after ticketing
Travel insurance is non-refundable
Will I need entry visas for a Footsteps of Paul Cruise/Tour?
Visitors to Greece, Turkey, or Rome will not need to obtain visas to enter any of these countries as a tourist as you are staying less than 90 days. o.
Are Covid-19 vaccinations required?
Covid-19 vaccinations are not required to board the cruise ship and will not be required for any other part of the cruise/tour. You will not be asked to provide evidence of vaccination.
Will I need any visas on this trip?
Visitors to Greece, Turkey, or Rome will not need to obtain visas to enter any of these countries as a tourist as you are staying less than 90 days.
How much cash should I plan to bring?
The amount of cash you will need will vary depending on your appetite for shopping. It’s a trip of a lifetime and you’ll no doubt want to bring home some mementos of the journey. Most shops and stores will accept credit cards and the exchange rate should be favorable.
However, you might want to bring cash for any meals that are not included on the tour such as lunches when we are on excursions or are touring before and after the cruise. Typical lunches could be $15-20 per person.
How much will we be walking on this trip?
Walking will be part of the cruise/tour and we encourage each traveler to be able to walk at least a mile and be able to climb stairs when needed.
Tour participation is available to all travelers, however, and will not be withheld if the tour operator can furnish the requirements that an individual may need.
Because most of our Tour sightseeing schedules require tour members to walk 1-2 miles at a time using a moderate pace and sometimes navigate uneven terrain, we cannot accept persons who cannot do so and instead require special assistance. Should any Tour Member’s participation somehow materially add to the tour operator’s cost, the Tour Member will be expected to pay any additional costs. The Tour Director retains the right to require any non-sufficiently mobile persons to stay behind when deemed necessary.
How should I pack for a Footsteps of Paul Cruise/Tour?
The climate of the Mediterranean during October is often excellent. This is a great time of year to take a Footsteps of Paul Mediterranean Cruise/Tour as it will not be nearly as warm as during the summer months.
Below is a checklist to help you pack to make your travel experience exceptional. When we embark on the cruise portion of our journey, your luggage will be delivered to your cabin at an unspecified time on the day of departure, so it’s a good idea to pack a change of clothes, toiletries and any medications you may need in your carry-on bag to bring with you.
Dining Dress Code
On a typical ten-day cruise, there are usually two evenings you are invited to dress up for a formal dinner. These are optional, but we encourage you to participate as they are a fun way to experience a cruise. We suggest a semi-formal dress or skirt and blouse for women and a suit for men. The remaining dinners on the ship are informal, although if you dine in the restaurants, we suggest—blouse and pants for women and a collared shirt with trousers for men. Remember that buffet areas will also be available if you prefer.
Packing Checklist
- Casual and comfortable clothes including pants, jeans, shorts, T-shirts, collared shirts or blouses
- Light sweater or jacket
- Semi-formal clothes or dress clothes for 1-2 formal evenings
- Bathing suit and a cover-up or wrap if you would like to use the pools on the ship
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Hat, sunglasses and sunscreen
- Toiletries, in a sealed, clear bag inside your luggage
- Medications in their original containers
- Small bag or backpack for port days
- Passport with separate photocopy
Packing Tips
Do not pack your passport or travel documents in your luggage. Mark your luggage and carry-on bag with your name and address so you can distinguish them easily. We recommend you also put identification information—name, address and phone number—INSIDE your luggage in case the luggage tags are lost in transit. We suggest keeping your essential toiletries and a one-day change of clothes in your carry-on. You keep a color copy of the information page of your passport inside your luggage in case your passport is lost.
Are cruise excursions included in the cruise/tour pricing?
Many excursions at port stops are included with your cruise/tour. Excursions are planned for Ephesus, which will include lunch; Cyprus will be a wonderful excursion, Crete and Rhodes are also excursions which are included with your cruise/tour.
There also will be port stops where you will be able to explore on your own or book an optional excursion from Princess Cruises. These port stops are Mykonos, Santorini and Naples. Mykonos and Santorini in particular are fun to explore on your own. In Naples, you might consider booking a ferry to the island of Capri, a short distance from Naples.
Can I extend my travel experience?
If you would like to arrive a day or more early to explore on your own, Rishon Tours would be happy to make the arrangements for you. Please send us an email at info@rishontours.com and we’ll work with you to customize your pre-trip experience.
If you would like to stay in Rome an extra day or more to explore on your own, we would be more than willing to make the arrangements, book your hotel, etc. Just let us know by email at info@rishontours.com. We are here to serve you.
Can I transfer my reservation to a different cruise/tour?
The short answer is yes. If you need to cancel your reservation and would like to transfer your reservation to a different cruise or tour with Rishon Tours, we will do our best to accommodate your request.
Can I use my cellphone on a cruise/tour?
Let’s explore how to effectively use your cell phone internationally, ensuring you stay connected and make the most of your travel experience.
Check with Your Service Provider
Before embarking on your journey, it’s essential to contact your service provider to inquire about international roaming plans. Many mobile carriers offer special packages tailored to international travelers. These plans usually include data, call, and text allowances for a fixed fee. Make sure to understand the details, costs, and coverage of the plan before making a decision.
Unlocking Your Phone
If you have a locked phone, you might not be able to use a local SIM card while traveling. Unlocking your phone is the process of removing carrier restrictions, allowing you to use SIM cards from different providers. Contact your service provider to inquire about unlocking options or consider third-party services.
Purchase a Local SIM Card
One of the most cost-effective ways to stay connected while abroad is to purchase a local SIM card. This allows you to have a local phone number, access local networks, and enjoy cheaper rates for calls, texts, and data. Ensure your phone is unlocked before purchasing a SIM card, and don’t forget to save or transfer important contacts and data before switching.
Wi-Fi Connectivity
Utilizing Wi-Fi is an excellent way to reduce data usage and stay connected for free. Most hotels, cafes, and public spaces offer Wi-Fi hotspots that allow you to make calls, send messages, and browse the internet. Remember to exercise caution when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks by using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) for added security.
Messaging and Calling Apps
Take advantage of messaging and calling apps, such as WhatsApp, Viber, or Skype, to send messages, make calls, and share media with your contacts. These apps use internet-based communication, allowing you to avoid expensive international roaming charges. Ensure that the people you want to connect with also have the same app installed.
Data Usage Tips
Using data while traveling can quickly consume your phone’s battery and incur high charges. To minimize data usage, consider the following tips:
Disable automatic updates for apps.
Turn off push notifications for email and social media apps.
Download maps and travel guides before leaving your accommodation and use them offline.
Use offline navigation apps like Google Maps Offline, Maps.me, or CityMaps2Go.
Conclusion:
Staying connected while traveling internationally doesn’t have to be stressful or costly. By planning ahead, understanding your mobile carrier’s international plans, unlocking your phone, and utilizing local SIM cards, Wi-Fi, messaging apps, and data-saving techniques, you can make the most of your cell phone without breaking the bank. Remember, staying connected is important, but don’t forget to take some time to unplug and enjoy the destination you’re exploring. Safe travels!
Do I need to leave tips on a cruise/tour?
Traveling to other parts of the world on a Footsteps of Paul Cruise/Tour is an exceptional travel experience that offers you both fun and the opportunity to become spiritually inspired. While you’re traveling with Rishon Tours, we want to make your journey as carefree as possible by covering most of the tips and gratuities on your cruise/tour. This includes the daily gratuity charge onboard the ship – this is covered by your tour cost. Please note, however, that extras onboard the ship such as specialty restaurants and not-included drinks will result in additional gratuity charges which will be added to your ship bill, and you will need to pay these additional gratuity charges before disembarking.
Tips to porters, hotel bellman, drivers and your tour guides, however, are all included. If you visit various restaurants apart from the cruise/tour, however, remember to acknowledge and reward excellent service.
In most parts of the world, the general guideline for restaurant service workers is 10-12% of the bill and 15% to acknowledge excellent service.