1. How do I book?

There are 4 steps to book a tour with MEA TRAVEL:

1.       Download the PDF reservation form from our website

2.       Fill the PDF booking form and send it to us by E-mail

3.       Wire the $US200 nonrefundable deposit needed

4.       Wire the rest of the amount 30days prior to the tour

2. What does the trip include?

All trips include the services of MEA TRAVEL tour leaders, hotel accommodation, transfers and touring in comfortable vehicles, luggage handling as well as local and specialist guides where required. Breakfasts are served by the hotels. Each tour indicates what it includes in the description and makes note as to what options are suggested in addition to the program. Some tours include specials such as admissions to attractions and festivals, caving, picnics, and so on. Please read each tour description carefully.

3. What about single rooms?

Our prices are based on double rooms and single supplements are available. This is an extra charge over the quoted rate and shall be requested at the time of booking.

4. How do I pay for my trip?

You can pay for your trip in $US. A nonrefundable deposit of $US 200 per person is required at the time of booking. Full payment is due 30 days prior to departure. The tour price is per person based on double occupancy and includes those items mentioned in the itinerary, plus any prepaid optional items. See the booking Terms & Conditions to know more about methods of making your final payment.

5. What if I need to cancel?

Consult the booking Terms & Conditions. Penalties may apply for cancellation within 30 days of tour start.

6. What should I bring?

A frameless backpack or duffel bag is the most suitable type of luggage to bring. We do not recommend suitcases or framed backpacks, as they are difficult to carry and take up valuable space on buses. Remember to leave space for the inevitable souvenirs bought en route.  

7. Can I charge digital camera or other batteries on my trip?

You can charge your digital camera and other batteries in your hotel rooms. Remember to bring your adapters!

8. How many people will be on my tour?

It depends on the type of tour you choose and where you go. Some of our tours take a maximum of 14 people. Based on experience we can say that you should expect to travel with 6-7 other people.

9. What kind of people can I expect to travel with?

People travelling with MEA TRAVEL come from all walks of life and all parts of the world. They range in age and a large number are solo travellers along with couples and friends touring together. Some are more experienced than others, but all share the spirit of adventure and exploration, which comes from independent travelling.

10. Am I suited to group travel?

We recognize that some of our travellers have never been on a group tour before. You can rest assured that our trips allow you to do your own thing within the framework of the itinerary. We do not attempt to instill a 'group ethos' and fully recognize your needs as an individual.

11. How do we travel?

Again, depending on the type of tour, transport will vary according to the terrain. It will range from local 25 seats minibus to 11 seats minivan. The variety in transport adds to the excitement and creates a more authentic experience.

12. Am I expected to tip the tour leader, driver or local guides?

Tipping is not expected however, when the local guide has provided an enjoyable and knowledgeable service a gratuity will be gratefully accepted. If you are concerned about the amount to give discuss this with your tour leader who will offer advice. Alternatively the group can put what each feels is sufficient in a kitty to be given to the guide at the end of the day/tour. If you feel your overall experience with MEA TRAVEL has been memorable, the team will appreciate a gratuity.

13. Is the itinerary of my tour likely to change?

All itineraries are suggested only. It is unlikely that the company will have to make major changes to the suggested tour, but the arrangements are planned many months in advance. Occasionally changes have to be made, which the company reserves the right to do at any time. Most of these changes are minor and the company will endeavor to advise the client of them at the earliest possible date. Whilst MEA TRAVEL endeavors to follow all itineraries there may be times where due to unforeseen circumstances we will have to alter our route or timing. This can be something as simple as road works or public holidays however we will do everything to ensure that all sites as per the itinerary are visited. Your tour leader is always conscious of everybody’s views, but sometimes he/she will have to make an unpopular decision and your understanding will be appreciated in these circumstances.

14. Are the tours physically demanding?

It depends on the type of trip you undertake. The vast majority of the tours are well within the capability of any healthy individual. Read individual tour description carefully.

15. Am I expected to have vaccinations before travelling?

No vaccination is required for traveling in the region/ Except Egypt & Morroco – for this reason we would advise you to follow up with your personal doctor.

16. How much spending money should I bring?

We suggest travelers budget for between EUR40-60 per day for personal expenses, entrance fees, meals, including souvenirs, evenings out, snacks and alcoholic drinks. Be aware that capital cities may be more expensive than regions so spending can vary. Also budget for any optional excursions you wish to do on tour and all visas that will be obtained on tour. Some of your money is best carried in cash in EUR or USD. ATMs are becoming more common and are a good source of cash in local currency in most large towns and cities. However do not rely exclusively on ATM withdrawals and remember to bring a back up card. Credit card facilities are limited but can be used for paying in restaurants, etc.

17. Do I need travel insurance?

Travel Insurance is compulsory for all tours. All travelers must be insured to cover personal accident, medical expenses, cancellation, curtailment and repatriation. No traveler will be allowed on tours without suitable insurance. Please produce this at the pre-tour meeting and give details to your tour leader.

18. Do you have any specific advice on photography during the tour?

On tour everyone will be taking pictures to reproduce the memories of travelling, this can be great fun. Bring lots of film, as the quality found on tour cannot be guaranteed. We also ask that photos are taken with the utmost respect. There are also many areas where photos/video cameras are forbidden such as border posts, airports, military installations, historical sites and museums. Listen to your Driver and Tour leader when they point these areas out.

19. What facilities will be available to communicate with home during the tour?

Email/Internet cafes can be found in most large towns and are the cheapest way to communicate with family and friends. In some cases, hotels would provide you with a free WIFI connection. Some internet connections can be slow and in remote areas it is still fairly expensive.

20. What essential documents do I need to bring?

·         Valid Passport – must be valid for up to 6 months after you return from your tour. Keep a separate photocopy.

·         Tour Voucher / Pre or post hotel accommodation voucher (if applicable).

·         Tour dossier

·         Travel insurance. Keep a separate photocopy

·         Flight tickets

·         Emergency contact numbers.

21. How safe are my belongings and valuables during the tour?

Most hotels have safes either behind reception or in the rooms. Please note that all items placed in these safe boxes are done so at the individual's risk, MEA TRAVEL takes no responsibility for such belongings. A concealed money belt is the best way to carry belongings when travelling to meet the group or when out sightseeing.

22. Can MEA TRAVEL cater for my special dietary and medical requirements?

If you have any food allergies or if you are a vegetarian please inform MEA TRAVEL at time of booking and your tour leader at the pre-departure meeting. If you require any specific foods which are only found in certain health shops please take a supply with you as we cannot guarantee these in areas of limited supplies.

23. Can you give me more information on the type of accommodation during the tour?

We choose hotels/guesthouses that combine comfort and great service with unique design and appreciation of the natural beauty of a region. The emphasis is on location and practicality. Our tours are based on 3 star properties. In capital cities and other places where higher-class accommodation is available you can upgrade if you wish. Your tour leader will help arrange this and the extra cost will be paid by you.

24. What meals are included and what can be expected?

All of the tours offer cuisine of the region and suggestions for places to visit and specialties to enjoy. The tours vary as to what each includes and therefore read the description carefully. For meals that are included, if you have a special need, please let us know in advance and we will make every effort to meet those needs. In nearly every case, alcoholic beverages are not included with meals.

25. What about wine tasting and visiting wineries?

During our sightseeing tours, we will stop by the most renowned wineries around our destinations. Several of our tours include tasting but not purchases for "carryout".

26. How will I get to the starting point of the tour?

Airport Pickups are part of our packages, for this reason we would expect from you to provide us with your arrival details.

27. I need help with air travel and hotels, can you help?

Air travel, hotels, custom itineraries, special services? Yes, we can help. We are happy to provide all these services.

Information in this document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change and does not form part of the contract between the client and MEA TRAVEL.