Your passport should have a validity of at least six (6) months beyond the conclusion of your journey. Ensure that you have sufficient blank visa pages for entry and exit stamps in each country you will visit. For assistance with obtaining a new U.S. passport or passport renewal, you can get in touch with our partner VisaCentral at visacentral.com/abercrombiekent.
Certain destinations may require U.S. or other passport holders to obtain a tourist visa. Please refer to Essential Information for detailed visa requirements specific to your journey.
To participate in VP Small Group Journeys and Luxury Expedition Cruises departing before June 1, 2023, as well as all 2023 Private Jet Journeys, full COVID-19 vaccination proof is mandatory. Adherence to country entry and service provider regulations, including providing proof of COVID-19 vaccination, is essential for all travelers. Refer to your Essential Information for comprehensive details.
VP will facilitate any necessary COVID-19 testing during your journey or onward travels. Our FAQs provide information on protocols if you test positive for COVID-19 during your journey. Note that for U.S. or Canadian residents returning home, there are currently no COVID-19 testing requirements for entry. For other destinations, check the specific COVID-19 entry requirements.
Stay updated by consulting the U.S. Department of State at travel.state.gov or the Government of Canada at travel.gc.ca/travelling/advisories as your departure date approaches.
Ensure that you register your journey with the appropriate embassy or consulate for the countries included in your itinerary. U.S. citizens can enroll via the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at step.state.gov/step, while Canadian citizens can use the Registration of Canadians Abroad at Registration of Canadians Abroad.
Refer to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (cdc.gov/travel) or the World Health Organization (who.int/en) for updated vaccine and malaria risk information for your destination. Schedule a visit to your doctor or local travel clinic a couple of months before departure for vaccinations and prescriptions. Carry original COVID-19 and other vaccination certificates, along with necessary health documents, in your carry-on luggage for presentation upon arrival.
We recommend carrying some cash and at least two major credit cards from different payment networks to ensure backup options. Notify your bank and credit card companies about your travel plans, including locations and dates, and inquire about foreign transaction fees. Use recently issued currency in smaller denominations, and exchange currency only at authorized outlets. Keep receipts, as they might be required for exit.
Confirm international roaming service with your carrier before departure to ensure connectivity while using your smartphone abroad. Internet access is usually available in hotels and public places, although it may be limited in remote areas. Be aware of potential restrictions on online content imposed by certain countries.
Use online resources like weather.com and timeanddate.com/worldclock to check weather forecasts and time zones for your destinations. Your smartphone will usually adjust to the local time upon arrival.
Pack your prescriptions and over-the-counter medications in their original containers in your carry-on. Include a basic first-aid kit and medications for motion sickness and minor stomach issues. When traveling, opt for bottled water and avoid street vendor food. Adhere to local health protocols, which may include mask-wearing, and inform your guide if you feel unwell during the journey.
Many VP journeys involve domestic flights with stricter weight limits than international carriers. Consult the Packing List and Baggage Restrictions in Essential Information. Choose comfortable, versatile clothing suitable for layering and smart casual evenings. Bring a global travel adapter set for electronics.
Use the VP luggage tags provided to help our staff manage your luggage. Even if your bags have ID tags, using our tags assists our team in locating and handling your luggage.
Reconfirm international flights 24 hours before departure. Internal flight tickets, if included in your itinerary, will be provided by VP representatives at your destination. Keep valuables secure by using available safes. Leave valuable items at home, and carry copies of important documents.
Look out for your VP local representative holding a bright yellow VP sign to greet you at the airport (excluding European Canal Barge Cruises). Review your itinerary for arrival instructions.
While shopping, consider recommendations from your VP guide for local shops. Be mindful that VP is not responsible for merchandise quality or value. Check credit card receipts before signing, and prefer taking items with you instead of shipping. Consult local customs authorities for information on duty taxes.
Request permission before photographing locals, especially children. Avoid photography where prohibited, and seek guidance from your guide.
Tipping practices vary based on your journey’s location and type. Refer to the Tipping Guidelines in Essential Information for specific guidance.
