Financial Responsibility
Emmaus trips have been designed to eliminate the numerous incidental financial responsibilities one often encounters on packaged tours. Tour agencies and their clients often publish a low base price giving the appearance that you have discovered a bargain. On such trips you are held financially responsible for any number of fees not accounted for in the published trip price. These “hidden” or “unannounced” fees can add up to as much as $300-$500 by the end of your trip.
In an effort to minimize your individual responsibilities for undeclared fees, all fees and tips are included in your overall trip price. Except for a few daily lunch meals and items related to optional personal choices, your trip price covers all such incidental fees. We do this in order for you to have a realistic cost of the trip and to eliminate the hassle so often associated with “hidden” fees.
The payment schedule for your trip is located within your trip’s web material. It is important that you maintain the payment schedule in order for Emmaus to confirm ground arrangements. Inquire with your group leader or with Emmaus if you have a financial question.
Payment Schedule
ATM Machines
ATM machines exist but are rare, difficult to locate, not readily available during touring hours and distribute only local currency. Do not depend on ATM machines for your financial needs. It is best if you have on hand sufficient cash and/or credit card resources.
MONEY FOR TRAVEL
US Dollars and credit cards are sufficient for your trip. Cash, credit cards and travelers checks are accepted in most shops.
Small vendors will require cash.
In addition to your regular tourist-type purchases, it is recommended you bring a “slush fund” of about $25 per day for incidental spending (lunches, snacks, water, soda, maps, taxis, tourist guide books, etc.). You will need some local currency.
It is recommended you convert $200
to local currency at the airport
upon arrival.
Bottled-water (16 oz) will be available for purchase on your bus. Bring a supply of $1 bills for water purchases.
You may find a neck wallet or money belt useful. Most hotels have a room safe. Some hotels have a private lock box at reception.
This trip is priced on double-room occupancies. If you desire a single room an additional fee is required by the hotels. Your request will be submitted to the hotels. A single room is not guaranteed. It is up to the various hotels to comply with the request. Historically, such a request is faithfully honored by all hotels. Please inform Emmaus if you desire a single room. Emmaus will then be able to inform you of the single room supplemental fee associated with your particular trip.
SINGLE ROOM FEE
MAKING A PAYMENT
You are welcome to make your payment to Emmaus by personal check, money order, cashier's check or bank to bank wire transfer. Credit card payments, with the added credit card interest fee, are accepted.
MAIL YOUR PAYMENTS
Emmaus Educational Services
115 Franklin Turnpike, Suite 185
Mahwah, NJ 07430
