Frequently Asked Questions

Booking

• What should I know before booking?

  We’d recommend that at the time of your booking and before your departure, you periodically check the most recent updates for your chosen destination by reading through the FCDO travel advice.  Insurance for overseas holidays is essential and for health updates and information, there are various sources including the FCDO Travel Aware which you may find useful.

• Why should I book my holiday with you?

  Travelling with one of our small, guided groups, accompanied throughout by our tour leader, means that you can simply concentrate on enjoying your holiday! We will ensure you see the best of the area, and during our walking and sightseeing itinerary you can relax and enjoy the views and the conversation from your fellow travellers, knowing that our tour leader is taking care of the navigation and logistics

  We also appreciate that we are in a fortunate position to be able to use our profits to help make a difference to peoples’ lives. In addition to our  Charitable Trust, which works mainly with projects in the UK, we also have a venture called Heart & Sole, which is managed by our office staff and whose aim is to reach the heart of the communities in the countries we visit.

  By travelling with us, in addition to experiencing the joy of visiting new places, you can help us make a difference in these communities, and we welcome suggestions from your travels for new projects we can look into helping.

  Sharing your holiday with like-minded travelling companions, secure that you are financially protected, with expert help on hand, plus knowing that you are contributing towards providing direct financial aid and much-needed support to projects and charities in the UK and overseas means you can relax and feel good from the word go. The world's more beautiful on foot...

• How do I book online?

  Booking online couldn’t be easier.  Once you have found the holiday you want, simply click the ‘Book Now’ button for your chosen departure. Follow the on-screen instructions and make a payment using our secure payment system. You will receive an email message confirming your booking straight away unless an element of your holiday is unavailable, in which case you’ll receive a booking reference and an on-screen indication that your booking has been noted. We will do our best to secure all arrangements and will be in contact with you shortly.

  Individual holiday departures will be flagged up as:

   Available        Available to book immediately - all aspects of the holiday in place and ready to be booked.

   limited            Either a room, flight or other aspect needs to be obtained before the holiday can be confirmed. This is usually the case when the holiday is close to being fully booked and has only a few places remaining.

   Sold Out        Holiday full - no additional places can be requested

   Provisional    Holiday price not yet available - please ask about an Advance Registration for this holiday.

• Can I call to book my holiday?

  Yes, of course, we love to talk about our holidays! If you would prefer to speak to someone about your holiday arrangements, you can always call a member of our sales team on +44 (0) 1707 331133. 

  
  

• Can I book via a travel agent?

  We are very happy to be able to work with Travel Agents. If you are an agent and want to book with us, please contact our sales department who will be able to send you a standard agency agreement. Bookings would be subject to the agreement in accordance with current UK regulations.

  
  

• Can I book before a holiday is on sale?

  Yes, please call our sales team on 01707 331133 to make a no-commitment Advance Registration or click the Enquire button against the provisional departure date.

• Can I extend my stay?

  Yes, of course.  Our sales team will be pleased to help you if you wish to add any additional nights to your holiday, either before joining your tour or at the end of your stay.  Please contact our team on 01707 331133 for assistance. 

• Do you have a Loyalty Scheme?

  Yes, we do. Our Rewards Scheme is our way of saying ‘thank you’. So as well as getting great holidays at great prices, you can redeem loyalty points earned on previous holidays for an even better price on a future booking. 

• Is there an Early Booking discount?

  Yes!  All our package holidays already offer great value but if those who book early you can save more!  If you are looking ahead to your next walking holiday, and book six months or more ahead, you can save £100 per person on long haul holidays (tour codes beginning with 4) and £40 per person on short haul holidays. This offer applies to flight (or rail) inclusive holidays only and unless otherwise stated on the individual holiday description.  

• How do I book a holiday for a private group?

  Organising a group holiday can be an exciting but an onerous responsibility. There’s so much to think about, so why not leave the hard work to us? Our Private Groups Specialists can put together specific walking programmes for your walking club or group of friends and if our standard brochure arrangements don’t suit you, we will aim to adjust a holiday to suit your needs.

  Always on hand to deal with even the most challenging requests our Private Groups team are ready to take your call on 01707 386723 or email groups@rambleworldwide.co.uk. 

• How much will I need to pay as a deposit?

  A non-refundable deposit must be paid at the time of booking as follows:

  For UK holidays without flights  £100pp. 

  For UK holidays with flights £150pp

  For short haul destinations £250pp

  For long haul destinations £350pp

  For Cruise & Walk holidays £350pp.

  If you book any regional flight as a part of your holiday booking, the cost of this must be paid at the time of booking together with your deposit. Regional flight costs are non-refundable.

• When do I have to pay the full holiday cost?

  The balance of the holiday price and the date this balance is due to be paid will be shown on your Confirmation of Booking invoice.

  UK Holidays without flights: 8 weeks before departure

  UK Holidays with flights: 10 weeks before departure

  Short Haul holidays: 10 weeks before departure 

  Long Haul holidays (tour code beginning with 4): 14 weeks before departure

  Cruise & Walk holidays: 14 weeks before departure

  In the unlikely event that a surcharge subsequently becomes applicable to your holiday, an amended invoice will be sent to you no later than ten weeks prior to departure. We do not usually issue receipts; please advise us if you require one.

• How can I pay?

  For a quick and easy way to pay your remaining balance, you can make a  secure online payment using our 24/7 Manage My Booking service. Alternatively, please call our Sales team and make payment over the phone (weekdays 9am – 5pm).

  We do not charge any card processing fees for payments made by debit or credit card.

  You can also make payment by means of a bank transfer. Please quote your booking reference number.

  Our bank payment details are:

  From a UK Bank:

  Sorting Code: 209312

  Account Number: 80751928

  Non-UK Bank:

  Swift Code: BARCGB22

  Account Number/IBAN: GB79 BARC 2093 1280 7519 28

• What will you send me?

  WHEN YOU BOOK YOUR HOLIDAY

  Once you have paid your deposit, and all of the elements of your holiday are confirmed, we will email you a Confirmation of Booking and Invoice Pack. The confirmation of booking confirms your holiday arrangements, any special requests, and the balance due date. Please take the time to check this document carefully and please let us know immediately if there are any inaccuracies.

  As part of this pack, you’ll also receive a Holiday Information Sheet with more detail about your holiday. We will send reminder(s) for any missing details, which are important for your booking, so please update us as soon as you can.

  We’re keen to receive feedback from you as this helps us to continually evaluate our customer service, so you’ll also receive a Feefo Request by email.

  PLEASE KEEP AN EYE ON YOUR EMAIL INBOX

  As soon as your holiday is (barring force majeure) guaranteed to operate, we’ll send you notification by email. If there are any changes to your holiday arrangements, we will send you notification of these as they occur.

  BALANCE DUE DATE

  The balance due date is shown on your confirmation of booking, but we’ll send you a Balance Due Reminder a week before this date and a confirmation of when your balance is paid.

  A MONTH BEFORE DEPARTURE

  Now’s the time to really start looking forward to your holiday, and 3-4 weeks before departure we’ll send out any updated information relating to your trip, including any local information. If you have any questions regarding your holiday arrangements, please get in touch with our customer service team who’ll be pleased to assist you.

  THREE WEEKS BEFORE DEPARTURE

  We aim to send out your Travel Documents and joining instructions 3 weeks before departure, please take the time to read through these documents and note your up-to-date flight schedules, check-in times, and luggage allowance.

  We’ll follow this up with a very short survey, which helps us to ensure you have everything that you need prior to your departure, as well as helping us to continually evaluate the quality of our documentation.

  WHEN YOU RETURN HOME

  Client feedback is valuable to us, so after your return home, we’ll send you a Questionnaire, we welcome all of your comments and especially any ideas or suggestions from you to help us continually improve our holidays.  

• Can I make a change after I have already booked?

  Yes, but please see Section 5 of our Booking Conditions for more details or call our sales team for assistance. Note that charges and limitations may apply.

• How do I make a change to my passport, travel insurance, or other personal details’?

  To check and update your passport, travel insurance or other personal details, check your loyalty points, or pay your balance, please visit our Manage my Booking page.

• What happens if I need to cancel my holiday?

  You can choose to cancel your holiday at any time. Any cancellations must be made in writing and all cancellations are subject to the Terms & Conditions of your booking, which you must agree to before you book with us. If the reason for your cancellation is covered under the terms of your travel insurance policy, you may be able to reclaim any charged incurred.

  Period before departure in which you notify us	Cancellation charge
  More than 98 days (Long Haul only)	Deposit only
  Between 98 and 57 days (Long Haul only)	30% of holiday cost
  More than 70 days (Short Haul only)	Deposit only
  Between 70 and 57 days (Short Haul only)	30% of holiday cost
  More than 56 days (UK only)	Deposit only
  Between 56 and 43 days	50% of holiday cost
  Between 42 and 15 days	80% of holiday cost
  Within 14 days or after departure	100% of holiday cost

  Please note that Cruise & Walk holidays have different cancellation terms - please see the specific Cruise & Walk FAQ section 

  
  

  
  

• What happens if you cancel my holiday?

  We reserve the right to cancel individual holiday departures in any circumstances, for example if the minimum number of participants necessary, in our opinion, to make the holiday commercially viable, is not achieved.

  We will endeavour to give you as much notice as possible, in the event that we need to cancel a holiday to allow you to consider an alternative date or holiday. Whenever possible we will offer you an alternative holiday option. In any event, except for reasons of:

  • Force majeure
  • Your failure to pay the balance due for your holiday
  • Concerns as to your fitness to participate in the advertised holiday arrangements come to light

  We will not cancel less than 8 weeks before your departure date for UK holidays, 10 weeks before departure for short haul holidays and 14 weeks before departure for Cruise & Walk or long haul holidays.

Travel Information

• Where can I find out about entry requirements and visas?

  Please check your destination’s entry regulations and any visa application procedures before booking and again before travelling as these may change without notice. 

  The UK Foreign & Commonwealth Office provides details of all Embassies and High Commissions in the UK.

  Should you be unable to join your holiday due to you not having a valid passport, visa or other documentation required by the authorities in your destination or if you are denied boarding by the airline or its handling agents, we cannot accept any responsibility for any consequent loss or additional cost incurred.

  Passports

  Passports are required for all overseas holidays or as identification when boarding a UK domestic flight or cruise ship on an international voyage.

  Many countries now require that your passport valid for 3–6 months beyond your stay.

  Check that the passport is yours, it’s valid and that you’ve packed it (in your hand luggage and not your suitcase!) before you travel. It is not uncommon for a traveller to arrive at an airport with a passport belonging to another family member and find themselves unable to travel as planned.  We strongly recommend you carry a photocopy of your passport separately from your main travel documents.

  Travelling to or via the USA

  Please check the expiry date of your passport, and if travelling to or through the US, the type of passport required.

  More information is available through the US Embassy in the United Kingdom.

  The US Customs and Border Protection website has a list of responses to frequently asked questions regarding travel to the US under the Visa Waiver Programme and the US Electronic System for Travel Authorisation.

  It is vital that those wishing to travel to, or transit, the US under the Visa Waiver Programme have a machine readable passport which also contains an electronic chip containing biometric information about the passport holder.

  Entering the EU & Schengen Area 

  When entering or leaving the EU Schengen Area, it’s important to have your passport stamped accordingly, as border guards will use passport stamps to check you’re complying with the 90-day visa-free limit for short stays in the Schengen area. If the relevant entry or exit stamps are not in your passport, border guards will presume that you have overstayed your visa-free limit.

  You can show evidence of when and where you entered or exited the Schengen area and ask the border guards to add this date and location in your passport. Examples of acceptable evidence include boarding passes and tickets.

  EU & Schengen Area Airport Transit Visas

  As of the withdrawal date of the UK from the European Union, a valid residence permit or visa issued by the UK does not exempt third-country nationals from the requirement to hold an Airport Transit Visa when transiting an EU or Schengen Area airport en route to another non-EU destination.

  Nationals concerned who pass through international transit areas of airports situated in the EU-27 Member States (with the exception of Ireland) and the Schengen Associated Countries (Iceland, Norway and Switzerland) when travelling between the UK and another third country as of the withdrawal date are advised to apply for a Schengen Airport Transit Visa and to take the necessary steps sufficiently in advance of their travel.

  Group Visas

  On holidays involving the party travelling on a group visa, should you be making your own travel arrangements and not checking-in for travel with the main party, you will need to make your own independent visa arrangements which may involve additional cost and lengthy visa application procedures.

  Travel Advice for British Citizens

  British Citizens can check current passport and visa information together with the latest UK Government Foreign Office (FCO) Travel Advice relating to your destination at gov.uk/travelaware.

  If you need to apply for a new passport, please do so in good time as issuing delays can occur, particularly around peak travel times. 

  Advance Passenger Information (API) 

  So that you can travel, it may be necessary to provide some personal information for immigration, border control, security and anti-terrorism purposes. Some countries will only permit travel if you provide your Advance Passenger Information or API to us (or the airline directly) before travel. If these details are not provided in good time, you may be denied travel to your holiday destination. See Data Protection for more information.

  Documents Check List

  Here’s a handy checklist of information to may wish to take with you when you travel and on holiday:

  • Your passport (make sure it’s valid and it’s yours!)  
  • If visiting or transiting the US, please ensure that you are aware of the current entry requirements (they’re reviewed and changed frequently and often without warning!) - don’t forget to ensure that you have a valid ESTA before travelling to the airport
  • Your travel tickets (or e-ticket itinerary)
  • Any visa or tourist card (if required)
  • Your holiday money (currency, credit & debit cards - including a separate list of credit card numbers)
  • Telephone numbers to call if you need to cancel lost or stolen credit or debit cards
  • Your confirmation of booking, and any other correspondence confirming prepaid or prearranged travel arrangements  
  • Car parking ticket (if pre-booked) and directions to the car park 
  • Coach or rail tickets (if travelling to your point of departure by pre-booked public transport)  
  • Your insurance details: Insurance company name, policy number, date of issue and telephone number as well as the name and 24-hour phone number of the Emergency Assistance Company provided by your insurer (details will be on your policy paperwork)
  • A valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) if travelling to a participating country
  • An alternative form of identification (such as a driving licence) and a photocopy of the pages of your passport containing your personal details and photograph (this will assist you in obtaining replacement documents in case of passport loss)
  • The name, surgery address and telephone number of your GP (for use by an overseas doctor or your insurance company in an emergency)
  • Details of a relative or close friend who should be notified in case of emergency
  • Details of any medical conditions or allergies that your tour leader should know about

• Advice on new UK airport security scanners

  While UK airports are working towards introducing new security scanners and checks, many will not be fully operational by the summer. ABTA is advising travellers to continue to follow the existing hand luggage rules around liquids and removing electronic devices.

  For now, the best advice is to stick to the current hand luggage rules around liquids and electronic devices, which are:

  • Liquids can be no more than 100ml.
  • Liquids are taken out of your bag when going through security, and are put in a single, transparent, resealable plastic bag, with just one bag per person.
  • Electronic devices, such as laptops and tablets, are removed from hand luggage when you go through the security screening process

  Please see the current ABTA advice here 

• When will I receive my travel documents?

  Approximately 10 days before departure we'll send a Travel Arrangements document via our Manage My Booking facility.  This document will advise your airline reference number which will allow you to either check-in for your flight online or at the airport. It will also include information such as your baggage allowances and where to meet your tour leader.  We no longer send out luggage labels.

• Will there be an airline representative at the UK airport?

  If you are flying from London Heathrow, London Gatwick, or Manchester, we do sometimes have a representative at the airport but not always.  If we do, this will be confirmed on the Travel Arrangements document sent to you approximately 10 days before departure.

• Can I check in online?

  Many airlines allow passengers to check-in on-line within 24 hours of your flight, before travelling to the airport. Online check-in is not always available for group bookings like ours, details are available from our Travel Team on 01707 386732 or flights@rambleworldwide.co.uk.

• How early should I get to the airport?

  For a relaxed departure you are advised to check in at the airport at least two hours before scheduled take off time (three hours for long haul). Details will be provided on your Travel Arrangements document sent approximately 10 days before departure.

• Will you keep me updated with flight schedule changes?

  We want to reassure you that whilst airline cancellations are outside our control, as your tour operator it is our responsibility to look after you and to do our best to ensure that any disruption is minimised. Whilst we cannot guarantee that there will not be flight schedule changes or cancellations, we can promise you that our Customer Services team are here to support you every step of the way.

  We will be in contact with you as soon as is reasonably possible if we are notified of any changes but occasionally you may receive a notification directly from the airline before we have had chance to contact you as we will have received a message from them at the same time. If this happens, do not worry, as we will be busy sourcing alternative flights for you and one of the team will be in contact with your options.

  In the event that your flight has been cancelled or rescheduled before you travel you will be offered a suitable alternative flight or, if that's not possible, either an alternative holiday option or a full refund for your holiday.

  If your return flight is cancelled or rescheduled, we will notify your tour leader and rearrange return flights for you.

  If, in the very unlikely event, your flight is cancelled whilst you are at the airport, our 24-hour Duty Team are on hand to assist you. You will find the phone number on your travel documents.

• How will you contact me with last minute information or details of changes?

  Please provide us with a mobile phone number to enable us to contact you at the very last minute or during your holiday - particularly during your outward travel.

  Please also ensure that your phone is switched on and with you when heading to the airport or if you are delayed en-route.

  We recommend that you check with your mobile phone provider regarding the use of your phone when travelling and any applicable roaming or data use charges.

• Can I upgrade my flight arrangements?

  Yes, often, but this depends on the airline and flight duration.  An upgrade may only mean a larger baggage allowance if it is a small aircraft and short duration however upgrading to a different cabin with additional amenities (extra legroom, bigger seat pitch, small cabin etc) may apply if it is a larger aircraft and a longer duration flight. Please contact our Travel Team on 01707 386732 or flights@rambleworldwide.co.uk.

• Can I travel out early or return later than the main group?

  This may be possible, but it does depend on the airline.  There is a non-refundable admin fee of £35 per person to deviate from the group dates plus a possibility of a flight supplement depending on availability with the airline. Please contact our Travel Team on 01707 386732 or flights@rambleworldwide.co.uk.

• Where can I find out my baggage allowance?

  On most flights the baggage allowance is either 20kg (44lb) or 23kg (50lb). Baggage allowances relevant to your holiday are shown in the travel documents sent with your tickets.

  On many holidays you may have to carry your own baggage between transfer vehicles, on and off boats, ferries, and trains and to your hotel room. Please only pack what you can comfortably handle yourself.

  Please note that on holidays where internal flights are taken, the free baggage allowance may be reduced to as little as 15kg (33lbs) or less per person. Details will be given in the Holiday Information Sheet, downloadable from the individual holiday pages, and your travel documents.

• Where can I book airport parking, hotels or lounges?

  For great rates on airport parking, hotels, and lounges, we recommend the service provided by Holiday Extras. Please call on 0871 360 2570 and quote reference number HX364 or book online at holidayextras.co.uk/rwh.

• Can I book a holiday without the group flights?

  Most of our holidays are priced including flights from the UK. If you'd like to organise your own flights, or travel by rail or car to the holiday centre, ‘land-only’ reductions are often available. You can book ‘land-only’ holidays online or by phone. 

  Delays in joining your holiday

  Should you be unable to join your holiday due to the cancellation or delay of your independent flight, please be aware that additional costs and losses involved in meeting up with your chosen tour may not be covered by your airline or insurance policy.

  Although we will make every attempt to minimise your losses in these circumstances, we would not be able to absorb the cost of any cancellation charges or additional costs.

  In the event of strikes, although we will endeavour to offer reasonable assistance, our ability to assist you may be limited when there are delays on your return journey to the UK.

  Booking Independent Travel Arrangements

  We strongly recommend that you do not finalise any connecting travel arrangements before you have checked with us, and especially not earlier than 3 months before your intended date of travel. There may be onerous cancellation terms on pre-booked connecting flights, ferry crossings or hotel bookings and we cannot accept liability for these if they become unusable due to changes in flight schedules or holiday itineraries. Nor can we accept responsibility for the consequences of any cancellation of independently booked travel or accommodation arrangements.

  Should you plan to buy your own domestic connecting flights to meet up with our party at their point of departure from the UK, please contact us before finalising your arrangements.

  Group Visa Arrangements

  On holidays involving the party travelling on a group visa, if you are making your own travel arrangements and not checking-in for travel with the main party, it will be necessary for you to make your own independent visa arrangements which may involve additional cost and lengthy visa application procedures.

  Should your holiday involve travel under a group visa, and you arrive at the UK departure airport too late to travel with the group, you may not be permitted to board a later flight or gain entry to your destination country.

• I’m booking my own flights; can I take the group transfer to the hotel?

  Please note that unless otherwise specified airport transfers are not included for those making their own independent travel arrangements. It is your responsibility to make your own arrangements to get to the hotel where the holiday starts.

  Should you wish to travel with the main party either from or back to the overseas airport, please contact us in good time prior to your departure.

  Please note however that any complimentary transfer offered for those making their own independent travel arrangements, on arrival or departure, will be based on the transfer vehicle serving our London flight arrival. You should also note that flight schedules are subject to change, and we cannot accept any responsibility for you being unable to join a complimentary transfer in the event of your independently booked flight or our group flight arrival or departure times changing.

  If you wish to join our transfer vehicle from the airport to our hotel, please also ensure that you book your flight to the same overseas airport as our group. Cities such as Rome and New York are served by more than one airport; we don’t want you to wait at the wrong one!

• Where do I meet the group?

  We sometimes have a representative at our UK departure airports, and we recommend that upon arrival at the airport you report to them so that we can ensure that everyone has arrived safely for their flight; by doing this, we hope to avoid any unnecessary delays at the overseas airport before departing for your hotel. Advice as to where to find the representative will be in your Travel Arrangements document sent to you about 10 days before departure.

  Please provide us with a mobile phone number to enable us to contact you at the very last minute or during your holiday – particularly during your outward travel. We will only use mobile phone numbers you provide us to assist you and not to subject you to marketing calls.  Please do keep your mobile phone switched on, readily available and where you can hear it when travelling to the airport or if delayed en-route.

  The Tour Leader will meet the group at the overseas airport in the Arrivals Hall.  He or she will be wearing Ramble Worldwide company clothing and will have a Ramble Worldwide clipboard.  They will be waiting in the Arrivals Hall close to where you emerge after clearing customs.

• Which airlines do you use?

  This is a list of airlines used in conjunction with our holiday operations, details on specific departures will be given on the individual holiday pages.

  1Time

  
  

  Aegean Airways

  Aer Lingus

  Aero Galapagos

  Aero Ecuador

  Aerolineas Argentinas

  Air Antilles 

  Air Arabia

  Air Astana

  Air Baltic

  Air Canada

  Air China

  Air Corsica

  Air Europa

  Air France

  Air India

  Air Malta

  Air New Zealand

  Alitalia

  Aurigny Air

  Avianca

  
  

  Bangkok Airlines

  Binter Canarias

  Blue Air

  Blue Islands

  British Airways

  
  

  Cape Verde Airlines

  Caribbean Airlines

  Cathay Pacific

  China Airlines

  Comair

  Condor

  Copa Airlines

  Croatia Airlines

  
  

  Easyjet

  Enter Air

  Ethiopian Airlines

  Etihad Airways

  
  

  Finnair

  Flightlink

  
  

  Georgia Airlines

  Gol Airlines

  
  

  Iberia Airlines

  Iberia Express

  Icelandair

  
  

  Jet2

  
  

  KLM Airlines

  Lantam Airlines

  Liat

  Loganair

  Lufthansa

  
  

  Mayfair

  
  

  Norwegian Air Shuttle

  
  

  Olympic Airlines

  Oman Air

  
  

  Precision Air

  
  

  Royal Jordanian

  Ryanair

  
  

  SA Express

  Safair

  Sata Air Acores

  Sata Azores Airlines

  Scandinavian Airlines

  Singapore Airlines

  Skybus

  South African Airways

  SriLankan Airlines

  Swiss

  
  

  Taca

  Tap Air Portugal

  Thai International Airways

  Titan Airways

  TICV

  TUI Airways

  Turkish Airlines

  
  

  United Airlines

  Uzbekistan Airways

  
  

  Vietnam Airlines

  Virgin Atlantic

  Vueling Airlines

  
  

  Wizz Air

  
  

  Yeti / Tara Air

• Where can I find a list of banned airlines?

  We are required by EU law (Article 9 of Regulation EC No 2111/2005) to draw your attention to the existence of a Community list containing details of airlines banned from operating within EU Airspace.

  If an airline used in connection with your holiday becomes subject to an operating ban, we will inform you of this to allow you to make an informed decision regarding your holiday arrangement. See also clause 8 of our Booking Conditions.

Holiday Information

• What is included in the price of my holiday?

  We are committed to offering exceptional holidays at exceptional value. 

  All of this is usually included in the cost of your walking or activity holiday with Ramble Worldwide:

  • Return travel by air or rail to/from the UK (unless otherwise stated or you book a 'land only' holiday)
  • Ground transfers between airport or station and your hotel
  • Accommodation: hand-picked for comfort and convenience
  • Meals: holidays are usually half board
  • A Ramble Worldwide tour leader: All leaders are trained, qualified and experienced - we offer several 2 Leader 2 Grade holidays to give you greater flexibility 
  • Full Holiday Itinerary: Expertly planned to showcase the best of the destination on foot and on tour
  • All local transport costs
  • Tips and service charges (you may also wish to add a personal contribution)
  • 100% Financial Protection (ABTA & ATOL protected)
  • Airport or harbour taxes and British Air Passenger Duty

  Please note that no refunds can be made should you opt not to participate in the organised programme or take a day off. Similarly, should you decide not to participate in an included group meal arrangement we regret that we will be unable to make any refund for meals not taken.

• Who are your tour leaders?

  A Ramble Worldwide holiday would not be what it is without the expertise and enthusiasm of our industry-accredited leaders. We have a team of over 250 leaders worldwide, who are vital to the success of our holidays and of our organisation as a whole, and we select and train them with care.

  In addition to holding recognised walking, leading and first aid qualifications, our tour leaders have an extraordinary range of specialist interests and expertise, and they are as passionate about the great outdoors as you are.  Looking after the logistics as well as acting as a friend and mentor to the whole group, their skills and personalities equip them to really bring your trip alive! 

• How many people will be in the holiday group?

  Small groups, big adventures

  Our small groups are usually sized 10-20 people. For holidays with higher grades or higher activity levels groups are generally limited to 18 people or fewer. Cultural and sightseeing holidays may have up to 24 participants. The 2x icon indicated holidays with two leaders and thus (potentially) larger groups, although walks and holiday activities will generally be carried out in two smaller groups.

  Minimum Group Sizes

  Like all group tour operators, we require a minimum number of participants to operate each holiday. We aren't able to guarantee a minimum number of travelling companions on any holiday

  
  

• What might I need to pay locally for?

  Sometimes it makes more sense to exclude certain costs from the inclusive holiday cost, this is because they are either optional, not an integral part of your holiday or are subject to change. We always try to be as clear as possible about the full cost of your holiday, the list below gives you an idea of the kind of additional costs you may have.    

  • Entrance fees to some museums and historic buildings (unless otherwise specified) – these are often included on long haul holidays
  • Personal expenses (such as your bar bill)
  • Discretionary tips
  • Optional excursions

  Full details of what’s included are provided on the individual holiday pages and Holiday Information sheets downloadable for individual holiday departures.

• Can you arrange optional excursions for me?

  During your holiday you may wish to book an excursion or activity provided by a local operator which does not form part of your pre-booked holiday arrangements, and which is available in your destination. We are not involved in any such activities or excursions which are not run, supervised, or controlled in any way by us.

  Should you decide to book an excursion or activity please note that your contract will be with the local activity or excursion supplier, who may or may not have their own public liability insurance, and we accept no responsibility for their actions or omissions. You may also be required to sign a waiver or disclaimer form. 

  Any acceptance of liability contained in our Terms & Conditions of booking does not apply to such activities or excursions although we would of course offer reasonable assistance to you in the event of loss or injury incurred during any activity not forming a part of your pre-booked holiday arrangement.

  Before booking any activity from a local supplier please ensure that your holiday insurance policy covers you for the type of activity likely to be included as a part of the excursion.

• Where can I find more detailed information on a specific holiday?

  Via the detailed holiday information sheet, you can access this by using the ‘Destinations’ tab or the search function to navigation to the holiday page. From this page, visit the ‘Dates and Prices’ tab to find the departure you are interested in and then click ‘View Holiday Information’. 

  Our Holiday Information pages will give you all the information we currently have on the itinerary, walks, accommodation and much more. If you feel you still need further details then please do not hesitate to get in touch with us either by live chat, email, or telephone.

• How can I find out about the walks on a specific holiday?

  This information, if available, will be displayed on the day by day itinerary on the holiday page. It will show the approximate distance, duration an ascent and descent. 

  Whilst every effort will be made to adhere to the outlined itinerary and advertised programme, local conditions can change due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. This may mean that routes and timings need to be amended or the order of days may change, sometimes at short notice.

• Which walking grade is right for me?

  Matching the right walking grade to suit your ability and comfort level is key to your enjoyment. You can follow your spirit of adventure, passion for the outdoors and the desire to enjoy the world's high places with our Moderate or Challenging grade holidays. Or, if you prefer, explore the cultural cities of Europe on foot, or walk on gentle slopes and scenic coastal paths on a Leisurely or Moderate graded holiday.

  Please see our Walking Grades page for more information.

• How do I know if I’m fit enough for the trip?

  Our holidays are planned for active people and whatever level of activity suits you, a fabulous selection of holidays to match your individual walking ability and spirit of adventure!

  If you have any concerns regarding your fitness or the suitability of a holiday, please contact us and we will be happy to give you some advice. Choosing the right walking grade to suit your ability and comfort level is key to your enjoyment as well as the enjoyment and safety of your travelling companions. Please avoid selecting a holiday beyond your physical capabilities, or even well under your normal capacity - unless you’d be happy with a slower pace. 

  Our walking grades indicate the pace and terrain you should expect on each chosen holiday, and the personal fitness required. If during your holiday, your tour leader reasonably feels that, due to your fitness or other safety concern, you are unable to participate in one or more of the holiday’s walks or other activities, then subject to the leader’s discretion you may not be able to join one or more day’s activities. If you are booking a holiday at grade 6 or above, are over 70 or have apparently experienced difficulty on a previous holiday, we may discuss the nature and demands of the holiday with you to ensure that you book the right holiday for your fitness and ability.

  
  

• What about '‘2x Walks, 2x Leaders, 2x Grades’ holidays?

  On ‘2x Walks, 2x Leaders, 2x Grades’ departures, where we provide two tour leaders and offer a choice of easier or harder walks each day, we hope to be able to accommodate your choice of walk. However, safety considerations do govern the sizes of groups in each walking grade; the minimum number of participants for a guided walk at a given grade and the maximum group size will be as indicated for the walk grade.

  On most departures we are able to accommodate most clients' first choice of walk most of the time, however some flexibility and co-operation may be required. In unusual circumstances where a disproportionately high number of clients wish to walk at one grade, for safety reasons, we may not be able to provide you with your choice of walk each day. Although we will endeavour to accommodate as many clients’ choices as possible, it may be necessary for you to switch between higher and lower grade walks during the holiday. Any decision regarding group sizes and the participants in the day’s walking programme rests with our tour leader(s).

  For safety reasons the minimum number of participants on a walk will be 4 plus the leader.

• Is there a maximum or minimum age to join a holiday?

  We don't generally consider our holidays suitable for the under 16s, especially the under 13s, although if travelling as a family group you will probably be able to better assess the suitability of a walk for a younger member of your party than us! And at the other end of the scale, if you are 75 or over, we strongly recommend that you have a medical examination before booking, to ascertain your personal fitness to join a walking holiday. For insurance and safety reasons we may ask you to sign a declaration stating that you are fit to undertake your chosen holiday.

• How good does my English have to be to join a holiday?

  Although we have travellers from all over the world joining our holidays, please note that all holidays are carried out in English.

  The success and your enjoyment of your trip will depend to a great extent on your ability to fully participate in the holiday arrangements and communicate with your tour leader and travelling companions.

  Unless travelling with an English-speaking companion, we will be unable to accept bookings for travellers unable to effectively communicate with the tour leader or other persons responsible for the safety and wellbeing of those travelling with us.

  
  

• How can I get the most from my holiday?

  Being made up of groups of individuals, it's quite common for your travelling companions to have slightly different expectations of what they wish to get our of the holiday. Your tour leader will endeavour to ensure that everyone gets the most out of their holiday whilst still adhering to the advertised arrangements.

  Although we provide advice and information to inform you of the nature of your destination and holiday arrangements, we recommend that you do some independent research on the places visited on the itinerary and the local conditions you might expect so that you can get the most out of your holiday

  
  

• What if I have mobility issues or another disability?

  We want to ensure that our holidays are accessible to as many people as possible. We also recognise that the term ‘disability’ covers a broad range of impairments, many of which have no impact on mobility or the ability to participate in our holidays. The nature of our holidays does however involve a degree of physical activity, a range of terrains at times requiring a steadiness of foot, a reasonable sense of balance and, being small group guided walking holidays, the need to move as a group during the day’s organised activities.

  If you have any disability or medical condition which may prevent your participation, or that of other group members, in the advertised holiday arrangements in any way, please contact us before or at the time of booking for advice. We are always happy to discuss any disability-related needs with you and will endeavour to make reasonable adjustments to accommodate them if full details are provided in writing at the time of booking.

  If we feel that we cannot meet your needs, we reserve the right to decline your booking. In addition, if, after booking your holiday, a disability-related additional need becomes evident that we cannot properly accommodate, we reserve the right to cancel your reservation.

  In general, for safety reasons, we ask that all participants can cope reasonably with the demands of the holiday arrangements without assistance from our tour leader or other members of the group not travelling with you. We also ask that all participants can undertake the included activities at a reasonable pace so as not to prevent other group members from completing the advertised programme without unreasonable delay.

  During the holiday, for safety reasons, there may be some walks or activities in which your disability or condition may preclude you from participation. Should this be the necessary, although your tour leader will discuss his or her concerns with you sensitively, our tour leader's decision is final. For your own safety and that of your travelling companions, you must agree to follow the instructions of our tour leader, local guide, or other responsible local official.

• Do I need walking boots?

  You’ll be spending quite a bit of time on your feet, so choosing the right footwear is vital to ensure that you can enjoy your holiday to the full, remain comfortable and avoid accidents whilst walking. We feel that appropriate footwear is one of the best insurance policies you can take on holiday.

  As our holidays range from city sightseeing on foot to high alpine hiking, we give some guidance below as to appropriate footwear for our range of holidays. On our easier holiday grades, the guidance is largely a recommendation. For our higher-grade holidays, the guidance provides minimum standards and indicates the sort of footwear we consider essential.

  Grade 1 (Gentle): For our easiest holidays, within reason, you should wear whatever is comfortable for a day out on your feet.

  Grades 2 & 3 (Leisurely): Good quality waterproof walking shoes or trail shoes with a thick moulded sole with a good tread and a low heel are all that is likely to be required for these holidays.

  Grades 4, 5 & 6 (Moderate): Lightweight waterproof walking boots with a good sole (such as Vibram or similar) and a deep tread and which provide ankle support are recommended and may be essential for some walks. If you are an experienced walker with strong ankles, a good quality pair of trail shoes may well be suitable for some Grade 4 walks.

  Grades 7 & 8 (Challenging): Good quality waterproof walking boots with a moulded sole with a deep tread and good ankle support are essential.

• What clothing and equipment will I need?

  For your safety and comfort, it’s vital that you bring proper outdoor clothing and footwear appropriate to the nature of your holiday, and If appropriate, we provide more additional detailed information on clothing specific to your chosen holiday in our Holiday Information Sheets, downloadable from the individual holiday pages.

  A basic kit list for most walking holidays is likely to include:

  • Footwear (walking boots or walking shoes) appropriate to your holiday grade.
  • Waterproof jacket (Gore-tex or similar) and trousers
  • Walking trousers
  • Several polo shirts, T-shirts, or specialist walking shirts
  • Fleece jacket
  • Comfortable walking socks
  • Warm hat and gloves
  • Sun hat, sunglasses, lip salve and high SPF sun block
  • Day sack to comfortably carry the kit you'll take out on the walk
  • Polythene bags to keep the contents of your daypack dry
  • Water bottle(s) - at least 1-litre capacity (see Water-to-Go filter bottles)
  • Basic first aid kit (plasters, blister treatment, antiseptic etc)
  • Insect repellent
  • Waterproof bag or container and knife for your lunch
  • Walking/trekking poles

  Any sharp equipment such as a lunch knife or trekking pole cannot be carried as cabin baggage when travelling by air.

• Should I bring trekking poles?

  We take the view that the use of poles is discretionary and recognise that they can often be a useful tool to aid you when out on a walk. By using poles, as much as 20% of your bodyweight is taken by your arms and off your legs during each step down, which over a long walk can make quite a significant reduction in accumulated stress on your knee joints – even more important if you're also carrying a heavy daypack. There are a wide variety of poles available. Adjustable poles are ideal, both to collapse them for easy storage in your daypack when you don’t need them and to adjust the length when going up or downhill. Some poles also have a shock absorbing facility.

  Top Tips when using Trekking Poles

  • Practice using your poles before your holiday: To get the most out of your poles before your holiday or a big walk, it's worthwhile taking the time to get used to the feel of walking with your poles, finding the right length for various terrains, and how to place them accurately without breaking your step.
  • Holding your poles: When holding your poles vertically, your elbow should be a right angle. On softer ground, you may need to lengthen your pole as the tip of the pole is likely to sink into the ground. To get the best benefit from your poles, you'll also want to shorten your pole when walking uphill and lengthen the pole when descending.
  • Wrist Straps: The wrist tapes can be a great boon, but to avoid injury, if you’re on challenging terrain and are likely to need to reach for a handhold, it's best to take the loops from your wrists so that you can quickly discard your poles in a fall.
  • Using the pole-tip baskets: As the baskets can get caught in undergrowth and bushes, it's best to take them off unless you're crossing particularly soft ground or snow.
  • Don't forget how to balance when not using your poles: If you get used to relying on your poles, your legs can forget how to balance without them!
  • Rivers and Rock-hopping: Use your poles to give yourself additional points of contact with the ground when crossing rivers, gullies, and rocky terrain.

• What happens if there's insufficient snow on my winter activity holiday?

  On our Winter activity holidays, in the event of insufficient snow cover to carry out a planned skiing or snowshoeing activity programme, an alternative walking programme will be provided. 

  Conversely, in the event of excess snow or other adverse weather conditions which may prevent the advertised programme being carried out safely, it may be necessary to alter or suspend holiday arrangements based on the advice of local authorities and guides.

• Where can I find more information about the meals?

  The meal arrangement on most of our holidays is half board (some with lunches too) because we know how much you can work up an appetite on an active holiday!

  Please also note that although vegetarian eating is slowly becoming more widespread, in some destinations, the concept of vegetarian or vegan eating may be unusual or incomprehensible to locals and some tolerance or patience may still be needed at mealtimes.

  For more information see our Accommodation and Meals advice

• Where can I find more information about the accommodation?

  Details about accommodation can be found on individual holiday pages. There are often variations in room size, fixtures, fittings, and views.

  Special Requests

  Where you specify a preference for specific room facilities, we will make every effort to accommodate your request. Special requests: for example rooms on a low floor, or with a sea view must be advised us when booking. We will pass on all such requests to the hotel(s) or other suppliers concerned, but we cannot guarantee that they will be provided and therefore, we cannot accept a booking that is made conditional upon a special request being satisfied. Please check that your holiday Booking Confirmation Invoice notes your request.

  If you specifically request single occupancy of a room, an additional supplement may be incurred. Similarly, if our original allocation of single occupancy rooms at a hotel has been exhausted and we request an additional single room on your behalf, a higher supplement than advertised may be incurred. When booking a double room, you should clearly request either a double bed or twin beds, otherwise we shall assume that either is acceptable.

  Please advise us of any special dietary requests. We will pass this information on to the hotels you will be staying in and to our tour leaders. Some destinations and local service providers may be better than others in accommodating your requests. Should your dietary requirements be restrictive, you may wish to consider bringing some personal supplies to supplement locally provided meals. If you have any concerns, please contact us.

  Building Work

  From time to time, building work at or around your accommodation is unavoidable, particularly where hotels are open all year round. If we’re aware of any work, we'll let you know as soon as possible if we think it’ll affect your holiday. This can be difficult as we don’t control the work and we’re not always told when it’ll happen and how long it will last. But if we think it’ll have a significant effect, as highlighted in our Booking Conditions, we’ll give you the option of a refund or an alternative holiday.

  
  

  
  

  
  

• Will there be good wifi at the hotels and in the destination?

  If Wi-Fi  is provided at your accommodation, it may not be available in all rooms and bandwidths may vary. Some accommodations may also make charge for Wi-Fi access. Signal strength may be reduced at times of high usage and by thick walls, other electronic equipment and adverse weather conditions. The device you use to connect to the Wi-Fi may affect the quality of service received. If your device isn't connected to Wi-Fi, don't forget to turn off data roaming to avoid possible data charges. We can't guarantee or accept responsibility for the availability, performance or security of any Wi-Fi service provided during your holiday, not of any costs resulting from calls or data usage whilst roaming.

• Do I have to share a room?

  As many of our clients join our groups by themselves, we do offer the opportunity to share a twin room with a member of the group of the same sex at no extra cost on most of our holidays. If you are a solo traveller of course you don’t need to share a room and can choose to book a single room if you’d prefer.

  In Austria and some areas of Germany twin bedded rooms usually contain typical 'Austrian type beds' which consist of one bed frame fitted with two single mattresses and bed-packs with individual duvets. In most cases the twin rooms will also contain a double sofa bed as well as the Austrian type bed, which will make a more comfortable sleeping arrangement for room sharing.

• Why is there a supplement for single rooms?

  We have a good number of sole occupancy rooms throughout our programme and some of these incur no supplement.

  Our allocation of single and sole occupancy rooms is however ultimately limited, as are the number of rooms without supplement, so do book early to avoid disappointment.

  Regrettably the hotels we use usually charge room supplements and although a room for sole occupancy guarantees privacy, it may well be smaller, sometimes a little less well-appointed and may contain a single, double, or twin bed set up.

  Should our allocation of rooms without supplement, or with a relatively low supplement already be booked, may be able to obtain additional single rooms or even allocate a twin or double for sole use, however a supplementary cost may be levied.

  If you are booking online for holidays advertised with no sole occupancy supplement, please do not assume that if you book a twin room this will be for sole use.

• Can I bring my dog or other pets on holiday?

  We regret that we are unable to accept dogs or other pets on our holidays, either at our hotels or accompanying our walks or other activities, unless specifically stated in the holiday descriptions.

  If you have a disability and require a registered assistance dog, please contact us.

• Will you ask me for feedback at the end of my holiday?

  Yes, we’d love to hear of your experiences!

  If you’ve provided us with an email address, we’ll send you an online questionnaire and an invitation to provide a review of your holiday on the independent review site, Feefo.

  
  

Cruise & Walk

• Which Cruise & Walk Holiday Is For Me?

  With a range of cruise destinations and UK departure ports throughout the year, as well as cruises of 5 to 18 night duration, you’ll just need to choose a holiday with the walking grade to suit your needs.

• What should I expect from the walking element of a Cruise & Walk holiday?

  As our time in port is determined by Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines and the local port authorities, our walks and sightseeing schedules are adapted to fit in with these timings. Our walks may sometimes, but not always, be shorter than what you would normally expect from the equivalent grade on a land-based holiday.

  The grading system for our Cruise & Walk tours therefore places a greater emphasis on terrain and steepness of ascent and descent rather than on time and distance, though these factors are still relevant.

  Further details of all walks can be found in our Holiday Information Sheets which are downloadable from the individual cruise holiday pages, or available on request.

• Do I Have To Walk Every Day?

  It’s your holiday and you can choose how to enjoy yourself. If you want to do your own thing at any time, your leader will only be too happy to advise. On most cruises, there are days at sea, which give you days free of walking.

• Which grade of cabin should I choose?

  Your cabin accommodation is an important part of your holiday. Please visit the Fred Olsen Website for details of cabin grades and their high standard facilities. Let us know if you’d like a different cabin to those highlighted in the brochure – we can quote for all grades of cabins available on board. Remember, internal cabins don't have a sea view nor access to natural light.

• Can I book as a solo traveller?

  Our holidays are friendly and fun and our small groups frequently include single travellers with like-minded interests.

  All cruise lines charge supplements for outside cabins with portholes, windows or balconies and for single cabins. A single supplement guarantees privacy only and may be smaller than a standard cabin. Some twin cabins may be available for sole use at a reduced supplement.

  
  

• What's the dress code on board?

  Most evenings during your cruise holiday will be smart casual evenings so you can feel relaxed and comfortable whilst enjoying your dinner. For men, a pair of trousers, chinos or smart white or dark jeans, coupled with a polo shirt or shirt is perfectly acceptable. Some guests prefer to wear a jacket or tie which is also fine. The choice is yours. Ladies’ dress can often range from tailored trouser suits and stylish dresses to casual separates and summer dresses. And just to add some fun to the cruise, there may also be some optional theme nights on longer sailings. Please note: trainers, T-shirts, shorts and tracksuits are not allowed in the restaurants for evening dining. We reserve the right to decline entry to those who refuse to show this courtesy to their fellow guests.

  Formal evenings

  Depending on the length of your cruise holiday there will be one or more formal evenings whilst you are on board for cruise duration longer than six nights. This is your chance to ‘dress to impress’ and add glitz and glamour to your dining experience. Most men opt to wear either a dinner jacket, or dark suit and tie. Ladies are often seen looking fabulous in anything from a cocktail-style dress to a full-length ball gown or evening suit.

  All Fred. Olsen cruise ships feature a casual buffet dining experience for those guests who do not wish to dine in the main restaurant. Dress code for the buffet restaurant is smart casual every evening.

  
  

• What's included in the price of my holiday?

  The price you pay for a Cruise & Walk holiday offers great value for money. From your shore excursions, accommodation, meals, restaurant gratuities, entertainment and exclusive afternoon tea, it’s all included in the price:

  • Your Floating Hotel - Small ship high standard accommodation, excellent amenities, superb dining and all the entertainment you could wish for.
  • Shore Excursions - Unlike other cruise holidays the cost of all our shore excursions is included in the price making these holidays extraordinarily good value.
  • Full Board - Breakfast, morning coffee, lunch, afternoon tea, five-course dinner plus a late night buffet is included. Drinks Packages are available from £25pppn.
  • The Best Tour Leaders - Qualified and experienced leaders guide, organise and make sure you get the most out of your time aboard and ashore.
  • Local Guides, Local Knowledge - Often also included: Native city walking, cultural or naturalist guides to add more insight and local flavour.
  • An Exclusive 'Welcome Party' - A fun ice breaking get together for getting acquainted with your Cruise & Walk travelling companions.
  • Great Itineraries, Big Adventures - We include an exclusive graded and guided shore walking and sightseeing programme for every cruise.
  • Tips Taken Care Of - We cover the restaurant tips for you. At the end of your cruise, you just need to tip your cabin steward.
  • Picnic Lunches - As additional value these will be provided by the ship for all days ashore.
  • Exclusive Afternoon Tea - You’ll enjoy a stylish afternoon tea on one day of your cruise.
  • Overnight In Port - Some of our holidays feature an overnight in port, allowing you to explore more and step out for the evening.
  • Sightseeing Tours - Many cruises include at least one half day sightseeing tour with a local guide.
  • On All 'Fly-Cruises' - Flights from London and/or Manchester, overnight hotel accommodation on arrival plus transfers to and from the ship are all included!
  • Cabin Upgrades & Benefits - Treat yourself to an outside cabin or a balcony cabin or suite with our preferential rates for cabin upgrades.
  • Reduced Supplements - Great for solos, who benefit from reduced supplements for sole occupancy of twin cabins on some cabin grades.

• What other costs might I have?

  Drinks 

  You can relax and enjoy your evenings on board knowing that your bill at the end of your holiday isn’t going to be an unpleasant surprise. Drinks are at UK pub prices and a bottle of wine with your dinner will be reasonably priced too.

  Optional Local Excursions

  Although a shore walking programme is organised and included for each port of call, should you independently book an excursion or activity provided by a local operator or Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, your contract will be with the local supplier. Although we cannot accept any responsibility for the acts and omissions of an independently booked supplier, we will offer assistance to a client in difficulty. Please ensure you are adequately insured for any optional local activity that you choose to participate in.

• What payment options are available on board?

  For your convenience a credit system is operated for all on board services, except for foreign currency exchange and ‘games of chance’.

  When a chargeable service is provided, you will be required to present your account card and sign a cash point receipt, retaining one copy for your reference.

  Your account is open from the time you embark the vessel with your swipe card, which is issued at check-in and which acts as your on board account card. To avoid any necessity to queue in order to settle your account at cruise end, you will be requested to present your credit card at Reception early in the cruise so that a swipe can be taken. You can check the balance of your account at any stage in the cruise and it will then be automatically debited after disembarkation.

  The following credit cards are accepted: American Express, Diners Club, Eurocard, MasterCard and Visa. Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines also accept Visa debit cards but regret Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines are unable to accept; Maestro, Solo, Electron or travel agent debit cards on board. Neither can Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines accept travellers cheque cards.

  You may also cash personal cheques to the value of your cheque guarantee card – the number of occasions will be dependent upon cruise duration.

  The currency used on board is Sterling, which must be the currency used to settle your on board account if paying in cash. We also carry currencies for most of the ports of call we visit – please see Bureau de Change for more details.

  All accounts for services and goods provided on board the ship must be settled before you leave the vessel. A 2% charge will apply to payments made by a credit card. An administration charge of £75 will apply for accounts not settled before leaving the ship.

• What if I have a medical condition that you should be aware of?

  We want to ensure that our holidays are accessible to as many people as possible. We also recognise that the term ‘disability’ covers a broad range of impairments, many of which have no impact on mobility or the ability to participate in our holidays. The nature of our holidays does mean however, that some will not be accessible to certain disabled people. We are always happy to discuss any disability related needs with you and will make all reasonable adjustments to accommodate them if full details are provided in writing at time of booking.

  You must give written notice to us at the time of booking of any disability, mobility problem, or any other condition requiring special care, attention or treatment. If any such condition arises after booking then written notice must be given to us as soon as possible. It may not be possible to satisfactorily accommodate you with such a condition onboard the cruise ship. Passage may therefore be refused to those with such a condition at the discretion of Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines or Ramblers Cruise & Walk Holidays. Women who will be more than 28 weeks pregnant at the end of the cruise holiday are not permitted to travel. Disabled passengers must be accompanied on board by an able bodied companion. Some ports require passengers to go ashore by tender. On health and safety grounds wheelchair bound passengers will be prevented from going ashore on these occasions.

  If we feel we cannot meet your needs, we reserve the right to decline your booking. In addition, if after booking your holiday a disability related additional need becomes evident that we cannot properly accommodate, we reserve the right to cancel the reservation.

• What time will I need to embark?

  Please check your ticket and other holiday information for sailing and embarkation times. Embarkation from UK ports usually begins at 2pm. Sailing times and for fly-cruises, flight times, may be subject to change. Please do not finalise any independently booked connecting domestic travel before you check with us, and certainly not earlier than 12 weeks before your intended date of travel. On occasions there may be onerous cancellation terms on pre-booked domestic travel and hotels for which we cannot accept responsibility and you are advised to check on these carefully before finalising arrangements. See paragraph 7 of our terms & conditions.

  Many of you would like friends and family to join you on board prior to sailing but, for security reasons, no visitors are allowed beyond check-in or Security in the UK or abroad. Should you be unable to join your holiday due to the cancellation or delay of your independent travel arrangements, please be aware that additional costs and losses involved in meeting up with your chosen tour may not be covered. In addition, although we will make every attempt to minimise your losses, we would not be able to absorb the cost of any cancellation charges. In the event of strikes, although we will endeavour to offer reasonable assistance, our ability to assist you may be limited.

  It is your sole responsibility to ensure that you check in on time for your cruise and allow plenty of time for doing so. It is your sole responsibility to check in on time for any flights to/from the vessel, including any inter-connecting flights.

• What happens if I am ill while onboard the ship?

  For your peace of mind, all ships in our programme have a medical centre offering primary care with a doctor and/or nurse on permanent call. They can easily be called from the phone in your cabin, if needed in an emergency.

  The medical centres operate outside the British and European health services and charges are levied for consultations, prescriptions, cabin visits and other medical provisions including repatriation costs.

  Any expenses reasonably incurred for you or on your behalf (including medical treatment and repatriation expenses) shall be repayable by you to Ramble Worldwide or Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines in full on demand (whether or not you have insurance cover for some or all of the expenses). In any case where such assistance is necessary or provided, you give Ramble Worldwide or Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines authority to contact any 3rd party including your GP or other medical practitioner and/or your insurers to obtain any information or documentation.

  Medical Assistance

  In compliance with Flag State requirements each vessel has on board a qualified doctor and a medical centre equipped for first aid and minor conditions only. Medical services provided on board are outside the scope of the UK National Health Service and a charge is made for these services. The medical centre is not equipped like a land based hospital and the doctor is not a specialist. Neither Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, the doctor, nor Ramble Worldwide shall be liable to the Passenger as a result of any inability to treat any medical condition as a result.

  At Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines sole discretion Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines may afford you assistance if you suffer illness, personal injury or death during the period of your holiday. Such assistance may take the form of advice, guidance or initial financial aid where appropriate and subject to Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines discretion. Any expenses reasonably incurred for you or on your behalf (including medical treatment and repatriation expenses) shall be repayable by you to Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines in full on demand (whether or not you have insurance cover for some or all of the expenses). In any case where such assistance is necessary or provided you give Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines authority to contact any third party including your general practitioner or other medical practitioner and/or your insurers to obtain any information or documentation. Whilst there is a qualified doctor on board the vessel, it is a Passenger’s obligation and responsibility to seek medical assistance if necessary during the Holiday and the Passenger will be solely responsible to pay for any on board medical services including but not limited to any medical treatments provided and repatriations which will be charged in line with private medical health care fees and charges.

  In the event of illness or accident, Passengers may have to be landed ashore by the carrier and/ or the master for medical treatment. Neither Ramble Worldwide nor Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines make any representation or accept any responsibility for the quality of any medical facilities or treatments at any port of call or at the place at which the Passenger is landed. Medical facilities and standards vary from port to port; neither Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines nor Ramble Worldwide makes any representations or warranties in relation to the standard of medical treatment ashore.

  The on board doctor’s professional opinion as to the fitness of a Passenger to board the vessel or to continue the Holiday is final and binding on the Passenger.

  Where a Passenger is refused embarkation as a result of health and/or fitness to travel, then neither Ramble Worldwide nor Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has any liability to the Passenger.

  Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines and/or Ramble Worldwide and/or the health authorities at any port shall be entitled to administer a public health questionnaire. The Passenger shall supply accurate information regarding symptoms of any illness including but not limited to gastrointestinal illness and H1n1. The carrier may deny boarding to any Passenger that it considers in its sole discretion to have symptoms of any illness including viral or bacterial illness including but not limited to norovirus and H1n1. Any refusal by a Passenger to complete a questionnaire may result in denied boarding.

  The vessel’s doctor has the authority to require a Passenger to remain in their cabin for health and safety reasons should they become ill during the Holiday.

  Passengers are reminded that some foods may cause an allergic reaction in certain people due to intolerance of some ingredients. If the Passenger has any known allergies, or is intolerant of any food, it is his/her responsibility to report this to the carrier on boarding of the vessel and certainly before consuming any food. Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines shall have no liability to any Passenger who has failed to notify the vessel of an allergy or food intolerance and becomes ill as a result of eating foods which they are allergic or intolerant to. Further, and irrespective of any notification provided to Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines or to Ramble Worldwide of any food allergies or intolerance, it remains your decision as to whether or not to consume any particular food items and you consume all food at your own risk. Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines and Ramble Worldwide cannot be held responsible for the food allergies and intolerance of individual Passengers.

• Will you change my Cruise Itinerary after I book?

  Do be aware that itineraries planned for some holidays may be changed prior to departure or at very short notice. See paragraph 7 of your terms and conditions. The final decision for any changes rests with Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines and your leader. Ramble Worldwide cannot be held responsible for disruption to planned itineraries arising from weather conditions or situations beyond our control such as earthquakes or political unrest. Every effort will be made to provide alternative activities and to ensure that you have the best holiday possible.

• Do I need a passport and/or visa?

  Passports are required for all Ramble Worldwide holidays or as identification when boarding the cruise ship. Your passport must be valid for six months beyond the date of your return to the UK. Please check the expiry date of your passport. Check that it’s yours and that you’ve packed it before you travel. We strongly recommend you carry a photocopy of your passport separately from your main travel documents.

  You are responsible for complying with all necessary visa, documentary and inoculation requirements for the entire holiday. If your passport is not a British Citizen passport you may require a visa(s). Please check with us, or the appropriate consulate, before booking. Please note that visa requirements and charges are subject to change without warning.

  Should you be unable to join your holiday due to the cancellation or delay of your independent flight or other travel arrangement or your travel documents being invalid, we cannot accept responsibility for any consequent loss or additional cost.

• What happens if I need to cancel my Cruise & Walk holiday?

  You, or any member of your party, may cancel your travel arrangements at any time. Written notification from the person who made the booking or your travel agent must be received at our offices. Since we incur costs in cancelling your travel arrangements, you will have to pay cancellation charges as follows (see also the exception below):

  Period before departure in which you notify us	Cancellation charge
  More than 98 days	Deposit only
  Between 98 and 57 days	45% of holiday cost
  Between 56 and 42 days	55% of holiday cost
  Between 41 and 16 days	65% of holiday cost
  Between 15 and 8 days	75% of holiday cost
  Within 7 days or after departure	100% of holiday cost

  
  

  Where a cabin is sold on a twin occupancy basis, if either one or both passengers cancel the holiday arrangement the holiday contract will be cancelled and both passengers will be subject to cancellation charges. Should one passenger still wish to continue with their holiday, then subject to availability, this will involve a new booking and contract at the appropriate cost. It may be possible for the travelling passenger to remain in the original cabin booked but any applicable sole occupancy charges will be levied. Alternatively, should the party member cancelling wish to transfer the booking to another person this may be permissible, up to 7 days before departure, subject to any costs incurred relating to a change of passenger name.

  Note: If the reason for your cancellation is covered under the terms of your insurance policy, you may be able to reclaim these charges.

  You can cancel your booking without paying cancellation charges if the performance of your package, or the carriage of passengers to your destination, is significantly affected by unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances. In such circumstances, we will arrange for your booking to be terminated and for you to receive a full refund. We will observe advice provided by the UK Foreign & Commonwealth Office.

• What happens if you cancel my holiday?

  We reserve the right to cancel your booking. We may cancel your booking if the minimum number required for the package to go ahead hasn’t been reached (usually 10 participants). We will not cancel less than 14 weeks before your departure date except for unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances, the cancellation of the cruise by Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, a refusal by Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines to accept you as a passenger or failure by you to pay the final balance. Unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances means a situation beyond our control, the consequences of which could not have been avoided even if all reasonable measures had been taken.

  If your holiday is cancelled you can either have a refund of all monies paid or accept an alternative holiday of comparable standard from us if we offer one (we will refund any price difference if the alternative is of a lower value). In the event a refund is paid to you, we will:

  1. Provide a full refund of your travel insurance premiums if you paid them to us and can show that you are unable to transfer or reuse your policy.

  2. Pay compensation as detailed below except where the cancellation is due to unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances (see definition above). This does not exclude you from claiming more if you are entitled to do so.

  Period before departure in which we notify you	Amount you will receive from us
  More than 98 days	Deposit only
  Between 98 and 42 days	Full refund + £10
  Within 41 days	Full refund + £20

  
  

The Walking Partnership

• Do we have to take a group holiday?

  No. Your walking group will benefit from every individual booking that a group member makes on any holiday. They can also benefit from a Private Group holiday - please see the below section for more information.

• How do I know if my group is registered?

  To find out if your local walking group is a member of TWP or to request more information on joining please email support@thewalkingpartnership.org.uk. If your group has not registered, please ask your group secretary, treasurer or chairman to fill out this application form.

  
  

• How do I nominate my group for funding?

  Mention the name of your group when you are booking. Your nomination will appear on your confirmation invoice.

  If you're booking online, you can mention this in the special request box.

• Can my group receive funding for a booking that I have already made?

  Yes - as long as the holiday has not taken place yet, and your group is registered with The Walking Partnership, you can nominate your group for funding on your booking. Please email Ramble Worldwide quoting your booking reference on mybooking@rambleworldwide.co.uk or call 01707 331133. Nominations will not be accepted for holidays that have already taken place.

• Can the walking group make nominations for funding on behalf of those travelling?

  No. As with all booking changes, nominations for funding must come from the person named on the booking. The walking group cannot be involved in this process.

• When will my group receive the contribution from my booking?

  The group will receive a statement and payment every April and October covering those holidays that have taken place in the previous 6 months.

• Our group requires additional metal plaques to mark the funding contribution made by The Walking Partnership. How do we get these?

  Just give us a call or send us an email using the below details, and we will arrange for these to be sent to you.

• How much funding will my walking group receive for my booking?

  Your group will receive £10 per participant for UK, Self-Guided or land only holidays, £20 per participant for flight inclusive short haul or Cruise & Walk holidays, and £30 per participant for flight inclusive long haul holidays.

• Do all bookings qualify?

  Most bookings qualify in the scheme. However, certain heavily discounted bookings will not qualify, for example, competition prizes and other offers made from time to time. The decision on qualification lies wholly with Ramble Worldwide and will be made on a case-by-case basis.

• I book through a Travel Agent, does my booking still qualify?

  Yes! Just mention that your group is a member of TWP and the group name to your Travel Agent and they'll arrange this for you.

• Can I book a private holiday for our whole group?

  If you organise a Private Group holiday, it’s also great news. A group of 8 or more people will qualify for a discount of 5% off the basic price plus TWP contributions for walking groups of 8 or more will also benefit from a capped payment via TWP as follows:

  Long Haul – £450
  Short Haul – £300
  UK – £150

  Walking Groups of up to 15 members will receive a TWP contribution as follows:

  Long Haul – £30 per person
  Short Haul – £20 per person
  UK – £10 per person

  All the other benefits apply, such as the dedicated personal Private Groups service.

• How can I contact you?

  The Walking Partnership
  c/o Ramble Worldwide Limited
  Lemsford Mill
  Lemsford
  Welwyn Garden City
  AL8 7TR

  support@thewalkingpartnership.org.uk

Consumer Protection

• How is my holiday protected?

  Safety, financial security, and high levels of service are top priorities - we are fully bonded and regulated to ensure protection you can trust.

  Ramble Worldwide is a member of ABTA (The Travel Association) and holds an Air Travel Organiser’s Licence  (ATOL) issued by the UK Civil Aviation Authority). Every single holiday we offer to you comes with 100% financial protection so you can be sure your money and your holiday are safe with us.

  We do this in two ways: holidays where we sell you a flight as part of the package are covered under our ATOL licence; all other holidays are covered under our ABTA bond.

  ABTA

  Ramble Worldwide (as a part of RWH Travel Ltd) is a member of ABTA with membership number V5094.  We were founding members of ABTA which seeks to promote high standards in its members and commits them to a rigorous Code of Conduct.

  ABTA and ABTA members help holidaymakers to get the most from their travel and assist them when things do not go according to plan.

  For further information about ABTA, the Code of Conduct, and the arbitration scheme available to you if you have a complaint, contact ABTA, 30, Park Street, London SE1 9EQ Tel: 020 3117 0500 or visit their website.

  The above applies only to services supplied by RWH Travel Ltd and does not apply to services featured that are provided by Ageas Insurance Ltd or any other company.

  ATOL

  All the flights and flight-inclusive holidays on this website are financially protected by the ATOL scheme. Our ATOL number is ATOL 0990.

  When you pay you will be supplied with an ATOL Certificate. Please ask for it and check to ensure that everything you booked (flights, hotels, and other services) is listed on it. Please see our booking conditions for further information or for more information about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate visit the ATOL website.

• How are you regulated?

  In addition to ABTA and ATOL, Ramble Worldwide (as a part of RWH Travel Ltd) is also a member of AITO (the Association of Independent Tour Operators).  AITO represents Britain’s leading independent tour operators and encourages high standards of quality and service. We abide by the association’s Code of Business Practice and adhere to the AITO Quality charter. Visit the website to find out more or call 020 8744 9280.

  The European Tour Operators Association liaises across European borders between tour operators, service providers, and government agencies to support its members operating within Europe. Visit the ETOA website for details.

  We are an accredited IATA agent authorised to sell air tickets on behalf of IATA member airlines. The International Air Transport Association is a trade association representing 250 of the world’s major airlines and supports the aviation industry by promoting inter-airline cooperation and develops and regulates the standards and practices of its members.

• What are my rights?

  The combination of travel services offered to you is a package within the meaning of the Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018.

  Therefore, you will benefit from all EU rights applying to packages. Ramble Worldwide will be fully responsible for the proper performance of the package as a whole.

  Additionally, as required by law, Ramble Worldwide has protection in place to refund your payments and, where transport is included in the package, to ensure your repatriation in the event that it becomes insolvent.

  Key rights under the Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018:

  • Travellers will receive all essential information about the package before concluding the package travel contract.
  • There is always at least one trader who is liable for the proper performance of all the travel services included in the contract
  • Travellers are given an emergency number or details of a contact point where they can get in touch with the organiser or travel agent.
  • Travellers may transfer the package to another person, on reasonable notice and possibly subject to additional costs
  • The price of the package may only be increased if specific costs rise (for instance fuel prices), and if expressly provided for in the contract, and in any event not later than 20 days before the start of the package. If the price increase exceeds 8% of the price of the package, the traveller may terminate the contract. If the organiser reserves the right to a price increase, the traveller has a right to a price reduction if there is a decrease in the relevant costs
  • Travellers may terminate the contract without paying any termination fee and get a full refund of any payments if any of the essential elements of the package, other than the price, are changed significantly. If before the start of the package the trader responsible for the package cancels the package, travellers are entitled to a refund and compensation where appropriate
  • Travellers may terminate the contract without paying any termination fee before the start of the package in the event of exceptional circumstances, for instance if there are serious security problems at the destination which are likely to affect the package
  • Additionally, travellers may at any time before the start of the package terminate the contract in return for an appropriate and justifiable termination fee
  • If, after the start of the package, significant elements of the package cannot be provided as agreed, suitable alternative arrangements will have to be offered to the traveller at no extra cost. Travellers may terminate the contract without paying any termination fee, where services are not performed in accordance with the contract, and this substantially affects the performance of the package and the organiser fails to remedy the problem
  • Travellers are also entitled to a price reduction or compensation for damages or both where the travel services are not performed or are improperly performed
  • The organiser has to provide assistance if the traveller is in difficulty
  • If the organiser or the retailer becomes insolvent, payments will be refunded. If the organiser or, where applicable, the retailer becomes insolvent after the start of the package and if transport is included in the package, repatriation of the travellers is secured. Ramblers Walking Holidays has taken out insolvency protection with the CAA (for flight inclusive holidays) and ABTA (for holidays without flights). Travellers may contact these entities if services are denied because of Ramblers Walking Holidays' insolvency.

  You can download a copy of these Key Rights under the Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018 as a PDF which can be printed.

Data Protection

• Why is data protection and privacy important?

  To reduce the risks of identity fraud, or simply reduce the amount of unwanted correspondence you receive, it’s important that you treat your personal information with care and only disclose it to individuals and organisations who you feel confident will properly look after it of it.

• Can I be confident that Ramble Worldwide will protect my personal information?

  We take your data privacy seriously and, although we cannot completely guarantee the security of your data, we do endeavour to minimise the risks of unintentional or fraudulent misuse of the information you provide us when booking and participating in our holidays.

  You should be aware that we do need to pass information necessary to book the various elements of your holiday arrangements, such as accommodation, air travel and, where necessary, some activities to the individual local providers of holiday services both in the UK and other countries. We only pass on the personal details which are necessary to make these arrangements and require that your information is used only for the purpose it is provided.

  We aim to handle your information in such a way so that you would be unsurprised at our handling of your personal data.

  See our Privacy Notice for more information.

• What happens if I don’t want to provide you with my personal information?

  Where we need to collect information from you by law or in order to provide your holiday arrangements, if you decline to provide the necessary information, we may not be able to provide all aspects of the advertised holiday arrangements or be able to provide your holiday at all.

• Can I stop Ramble Worldwide from sending me brochures and other marketing information?

  You have the right to ask us to change the way we contact you with marketing information about our holidays or to ask us to stop sending you marketing information at all. You can do this by:

  • ticking the relevant boxes on our website or any e-newsletters we send you
  • by visiting our Preference Centre
  • sending an email to marketing@rambleworldwide.co.uk
  • using the contact form on our website
  • writing to us at our office in Lemsford

  Once you have let us know how you would like us to contact you with marketing information, you can change your mind at any time.

• What about photographs taken on holiday?

  Many group members enjoy taking photographs during their holiday and also post these on their social media accounts. We also often receive images from those who have travelled with us highlighting their experiences and the sights they've seen. Occasionally we will include customers' photographs on our websites and brochures to depict the nature of our holidays for the benefit of potential future travellers.

  Should you wish to take a photograph which includes a recognisable image of one or more of your travelling companions, please check that they are happy to be included in your photograph. Similarly, should you not wish to be included in your fellow travellers' photographs please let them know or simply step out of shot should you realise a photograph is about to be taken.

  See our Privacy Policy for more information.

• How can I find out more?

  For more information about Data Protection, Privacy, the way we handle your personal information, and your data rights please visit our Data Protection & Privacy page which includes our Privacy, Computer Security and Cookie policies.

Holiday Health & Safety

• What are the top tips for staying safe on holiday?

  • Keep an eye on the up to date FCDO Travel Advice for your destination and any countries visited enroute and confirm the entry requirements for your holiday bearing in mind your destination and any recent travel you’ve undertaken.
  • It is a good idea to keep copies of your travel documents, passports, and tickets in secure locations away from the originals. You could also scan and email copies to yourself so you can access them at any time from an internet café or hotel.
  • No matter what country you are visiting it is wise to take precautions when it comes to your safety and protecting your belongings, especially in crowds around train stations and tourist traps.  We would advise you not to carry more cash than is necessary and to avoid displays of wealth such as expensive jewellery or watches.
  • If you must carry large sums of money, passports, or bank cards, we would advise you wear a money belt. Money belts are more secure than a waist pouch, less visible and can be worn under your clothes.
  • Be safe in the sun - the temperature when abroad can often be a lot higher than we are used to in the UK! Help prevent sunburn by using a good sun cream and lip salve, wear a hat to protect your head and the back of your neck, keep hydrated by drinking regularly and remember that alcohol is very dehydrating.
  • It is advisable to take a small first-aid kit with you including a remedy for stomach upsets. Please also remember to pack any prescription medicine in your hand luggage so in the unlikely event that your checked in luggage goes astray, you will not need to worry about replacing any items.
  • Practice scrupulous hand hygiene, wash hands with soap and water often and remember to keep your hands away from your face.  Carrying an alcohol based hand sanitiser and reusable face mask may also be advisable.
  • If you are at all unsure of hygiene, err on the side of caution, brush your teeth and wash fruit and vegetables using bottled water.  Or for an even better alternative, we are delighted to be working with Water-to-Go. Water-to-Go's mission is to protect travellers' health by providing safe, healthy water anywhere in the world and to also protect the planet by offering an environmentally friendly alternative to single use plastic bottles. Visit Water-to-Go to learn more and benefit from our exclusive 15% discount on your reusable Water-to-Go filtration bottle when you use the code RWH17
  • Use disposable tissues when coughing or sneezing and dispose of used tissues carefully and promptly to limit the spread of any viral or gastric illnesses.

  
  

• Will I need any vaccinations?

  You should liaise with your local doctor or travel clinic for the most up-to-date information relating to vaccinations.  If you do need inoculations to travel, please ensure that you organise these in good time before your departure. 

  Some destinations may require you to carry an International Certificate of Vaccination with you, for further information, please visit Travel Health Pro where you can search for advice by destination. Another good source of information is the NHS Fit for Travel website.

• When out walking

  You should be aware of potential hazards on holiday as walking amongst mountains, hills and even in cities does involve an element of risk. For example, weather can deteriorate unexpectedly and may cause paths to become slippery. Terrain underfoot can also vary and be different from what you’re used to. Temperatures, humidity, or altitude may be higher than you are used to, changes in diet may affect you, and unpleasant insects may be encountered. When travelling overseas it’s wise to take extra care. 

  As the tour leader is responsible for the safety of all group members, he or she may adopt a more cautious approach than would be considered reasonable by an individual party member. 

  See also our advice on fitness, clothing and equipment, footwear, and personal responsibility.

• Local Conditions

  Many of our holiday take place in mountainous, remote or wild environments, where weather, abnormal climatic conditions or other local conditions and circumstances may necessitate us to change or suspend our planned and advertised holiday arrangements.

• At your hotel

  We always endeavour to ensure our hotels meet reasonable health and safety standards and provide accommodation that is as safe as reasonably possible given local conditions. We work with our overseas hoteliers and other suppliers to raise standards and resolve any issues of concern.

  • Fire exits and escape routes: Your tour leader will indicate the fire exits at your accommodation. It is important that you familiarise yourself with these as you may need to use them in the unlikely event of an emergency. It is always worthwhile making sure that you know how to find your way out of your hotel shortly after arriving at your room; it’s better to identify your escape route at leisure than in a possible emergency.
  • Hotel Lifts: do not use lifts in the event of a fire. Do not smoke in lifts. Some hotels use lifts without internal closing doors – this gives the effect of the wall moving. If this is the case in your accommodation, please keep away from this part of the lift whilst it is in motion.
  • Hotel Balconies: please do not sit or stand on balcony walls or railings and exercise special care when using balconies if you have been drinking alcohol.
  • Electricals: please use an adaptor appropriate for the country you are visiting and make sure that items such as hairdryers are using the voltage applicable. Some hotel rooms are fitted with low voltage circuits, and this means that you cannot use electrical items that draw heavy current such as travel kettles, hairdryers etc. Turn off and unplug all electrical items at night and when you leave the room. Due to the fire risk, please be careful not to leave wet towels or clothes drying on electrical heaters.

  
  

   

• Around the swimming pool

  Many people enjoy using swimming pools whilst on holiday and if you follow a few simple common sense rules, you can help reduce the risk of an accident:

  • Don’t use the swimming pool if you have been drinking alcohol, taken drugs, if you have just eaten or if you are feeling unwell. Some medication can make you drowsy or disorientated and, if this applies to you, don’t swim
  • Follow ‘Pool Rules’ and observe ‘No Diving’ warnings where applicable. Never dive into water less than 1.5m deep. If you are unsure, check. Be aware that pool depths can vary from one end to another.
  • Not all areas surrounding pools are non-slip, always tread carefully and don’t run.
  • Shower before entering the water and don’t use the pool if you have any cuts or open wounds. Stay away from pool filters and drains. Hair, fingers, feet etc can be sucked in and cause injury. Keep long hair tied back or wear a swimming cap.
  • Many swimming pools do not have a lifeguard on duty. Please be vigilant especially if swimming alone

• On the beach

  Beaches and the opportunity to swim in the sea are a real attraction for many holidaymakers and can be an enjoyable part of your holiday experience, but don’t take risks.

  • Watch where the locals swim!
  • Don’t swim alone – let others know where you will be and when you expect to be back.
  • Don’t drink alcohol and swim. Be careful if you have taken medication. Observe warning flags and notices.
  • Check tide times and whether the area is subject to strong currents or rip tides. Don’t get cut off by an incoming tide.
  • Beach footwear may provide some level of protection against sea urchins.

• Insects

  If you are travelling to a country where malaria is a risk, visit your GP for advice. For further information visit www.malariahotspots.co.uk. Mosquito bites in general can cause great discomfort to some people and using appropriate insect repellents can help you avoid being bitten. 

  Travellers (especially those taking part on some walking holidays) should be familiar with the ways in which they can help themselves prevent being bitten by a tick. Diseases such as tick – borne encephalitis and Lyme Disease can occur if the tick is infected when it bites. Covering up and use of insect repellent especially when walking in grassy areas can help. 

  Further information can be found at the Scottish NHS Travel Health website or Travel Health Pro from NaTHNaC (the National Travel Health Network & Centre).

• Food and drink

  Food is a huge part of your holiday, and eating and experiencing the local cuisine is fun, but the food may be different to what you are used to at home! Some people can suffer from short – term stomach upsets caused by a different diet, a change in the temperature or too much alcohol. 

  Avoiding ice in your drinks, not drinking straight from a bottle or can you haven't opened yourself, and being careful to avoid any foods such as salad or fruit which may not be washed is advisable.  Food safety standards highlight that different foods can only be safely left on display for a given length of time, in some destinations this may be difficult to judge, so if in doubt, err on the side of caution. 

  We will always pass on any special dietary preferences to our suppliers and generally, requests such as vegetarian can be accommodated. Some destinations however may be less familiar with some dietary requests so we ask that you allow some tolerance and acceptance that there may be limited choices available.  You may also wish to consider bringing your own supplies if this is an essential health requirement.

  We are also delighted to be working with Water-to-Go. Water-to-Go's mission is to protect travellers' health by providing safe, healthy water anywhere in the world and to also protect the planet by offering an environmentally friendly alternative to single use plastic bottles. Visit Water-to-Go to learn more and benefit from our exclusive 15% discount on your reusable Water-to-Go filtration bottle when you use the code RWH17.

• Cruise ship

  For those clients taking part on one of our Cruise & Walk holidays, we would ask that you make yourselves acquainted with the safety procedures on-board your cruise ship.

  • All passengers will be obliged to attend a health and safety drill to ensure you are familiar with safety procedures on board ship.
  • Decks can be slippery, especially at night, low-heeled, rubber soled shoes (and ice grippers where permitted and in arctic regions) can help avoid slips.
  • Gastric illnesses can spread quickly on cruise ships. Please think more about hygiene and wash your hands regularly to prevent spreading. Take a few minutes to watch the on-board safety and hygiene videos in your cabin.

• What are my personal responsibilities when on holiday?

  Footwear, Clothing and Experience

  We really do want you to enjoy your holiday with us! Please choose your holiday wisely and ensure that you come fully equipped for the local weather and terrain as by doing so, this will only enhance the enjoyment of your stay.

  It is your responsibility to bring proper outdoor clothing and footwear appropriate to the nature of the holiday and to choose a holiday appropriate to your fitness levels and capability.

  We're always glad to discuss any queries you may have about our holidays - don't hesitate to get in touch by phone or email if you have any questions or concerns.

  You should be aware that, for your own wellbeing as well as that of the group as a whole, your tour leader may decline to take you on a particular walk or other included holiday activity if he or she feels that your clothing, footwear, ability, or experience is unsuitable for the demands of an individual walk or activity or, ultimately, for holiday as a whole.

  Cooperation and Conduct

  The success of each holiday depends to a great extent on the members of the group’s abilities to participate physically and cooperate with other party members and the tour leader.
  
  The tour leader has full authority to exclude any member, either from part of the daily programme or, in extreme cases, from the entire tour if he or she is in the leader's reasonable opinion, either physically unable to participate, behaves in a way which is detrimental to the interests or safety of the party as a whole, is inadequately equipped or does not have adequate travel insurance. Refunds may be made in appropriate cases at our discretion.

  Local Damage

  When you book your holiday with us, you do accept responsibility for the proper conduct of all members of your party during your holiday.
  
  We reserve the right at any time to terminate the holiday of any party member(s) whose behaviour is such, in the reasonable opinion of an accommodation provider or us, as to cause or likely to cause danger, upset or distress to anyone else or damage to property. Full cancellation charges will then apply and no refund will be given.
  
  Furthermore, we shall be under no obligation to pay any compensation or meet any costs or expenses (including but not limited to alternative accommodation) which you may incur as a result of your stay or your holiday being terminated.
  
  If you cause damage to the accommodation in which you are staying (albeit accidentally), you must fully reimburse the accommodation supplier concerned for the cost of the damage before the end of your stay if the cost has been established by then or as soon as it has been established if later.

• Where can I find advice on Travel Health?

  Foreign Office Travel Advice

  The UK Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) provides up to date information and foreign travel advice on health, safety, security and local laws as well as current passport and visa information at www.gov.uk/travelaware to help British travellers make informed choices about travelling abroad and to be prepared for an overseas holiday.

  For the latest travel advice from the FCO we strongly recommend that you check www.gov.uk/travelaware at the time of booking and closer to departure as well as following @FCOtravel on Twitter and at Facebook.com/FCOtravel on Facebook.

  We also recommend that you register to receive email alerts relating to changes in Foreign Office Travel Advice for the country or countries you will be travelling to at www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice

  Take a look at the UK Government's handy summary of the basic Travel Aware Essentials you need to consider when travelling abroad.

  Travel Health Advice

  • Research vaccinations or any other medical requirements, and if necessary, visit a travel health clinic or your GP at least six weeks before you travel, visit travelhealthpro.org.uk.
  • If you are travelling within Europe, ensure you have a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) that hasn’t expired and understand what it covers - you still need full travel insurance though! For your free EHIC card visit nhs.uk/ehic.

  Advice from ABTA

  ABTA also offers some good general advice on how to have a safe and healthy holiday.

  Other Advisories

  Governments of other countries also issue travel advice for their citizens when planning travel abroad:

  • Australia	Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade 'Smart Traveller' Travel Advice
  • Canada	Government of Canada Travel Advice and Advisories
  • New Zealand	Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade 'Safe Travel' Travel Advisories
  • USA	U.S. Department of State Travel Advisories

Essential Travel Advice

• FCDO Travel Advice

  For the latest travel advice from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO Travel Advice), including security and local laws, plus passport and visa information check Travel Aware.

  We strongly recommend that you check the FCDO Travel Advice for up to date information on the countries you'll be visiting before booking. The advice can change so do check regularly for updates.

  We also recommend that you follow @FCDOtravelGovUK on Twitter and facebook.com/FCDOtravel on Facebook.

  To keep up to date, you can register to receive email alerts relating to changes in FCDO Travel Advice for the country or countries you will be visiting at www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice.

  Take a look at the UK Government's handy summary of the basic Travel Aware Essentials you need to consider when travelling abroad.

  
  

• What is our policy on following FCDO Travel Advice?

  Ramble Worldwide will always follow FCDO Travel Advice.  Should the FCDO issue travel advice 'against all but essential travel' to a country, we will not operate holidays to the destination whilst the advice is in force.

  As FCDO Travel Advice can change at any time, we will review the operation of tours to destinations where advice against all but essential travel is in place on an ongoing basis.

  See our Booking Conditions for more information. 

  
  

Travel Insurance

• Do I need to have travel insurance?

  It’s a condition of booking that you obtain adequate travel insurance, from a reputable provider, to undertake the holiday, including UK trips chiefly due to the cancellation element of cover.

  The policy must cover the period from the date of booking to the last day of your trip and should include, as a minimum, cover for: medical expenses (including the consequences of a Covid positive test result), mountain rescue including helicopter rescue, death, repatriation, cancellation and curtailment and shall not have exclusion clauses limiting cover for the activities you will partake in on your trip, including altitudes reached in the holiday arrangement. It is your responsibility to check that your policy is adequate for the nature and destination of the holiday booked.

  Once you have obtained your travel insurance, please provide us with the name of your travel insurer, the policy number and the insurer’s 24 hour emergency assistance number.

  In the event that you fail to obtain suitable Travel Insurance we shall not be liable for any costs incurred or claims made against us due to your failure to comply with this term.

  If travelling outside the UK you must carry proof of insurance with you and produce it if reasonably requested to do so by Ramble Worldwide staff, tour leaders or suppliers. No refunds will be made should you be excluded from the walking programme through being uninsured or you being unable to demonstrate that you are insured.

  Our house broker MPI should be considered for whom we are an affiliate and contact information is on our website and will be referred to in your booking confirmation.

  If you are travelling to an EU country or Switzerland please also ensure that you have either an existing valid EU EHIC card (European Health Insurance Card) or a valid UK GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card). You can apply for a UK GHIC free of charge on the NHS website at https://services.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/cra/start.

  See also Booking Conditions.

  
  

• Where can I find travel insurance?

  If you have not already arranged cover, our house broker MPI should be considered for whom we are an affiliate.

  You can find out more and purchase a policy online by visiting the MPI Brokers website.

  RWH Travel Ltd is an Unregulated Introducer of MPI Brokers who are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).

  
  

Self Guided Walking Holidays

• How do I know which holiday is suitable for my walking level?

  Matching the right walking grade to suit your ability and comfort level is key to your enjoyment. Each of the trails are graded on difficulty and you can find the details on our walking grades here. On the individual holiday page, the day-by-day itinerary will show the approximate distance, duration and terrain.  

• Is my holiday booking immediately confirmed?

  When you make your booking online, we will contact our overseas agent to confirm if space is available for your chosen dates. If your chosen date is available, we will issue a confirmation of booking. 

  If we are unable to confirm your first choice, we will contact you to discuss alternatives, which may be a supplemental cost or perhaps an alternative date of travel.

• Do I have to travel on a set date?

  No, you can choose your preferred departure date within the months of operation for your chosen trail. 

  If you are flexible on dates, please tell us when you make your booking as if your first choice is not available, we will do our best to offer you an alternative, and this will make the booking process quicker.

• What is included in the holiday cost?

  We include your accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis for your specified length of trip, bag transfers between properties on the days you move on, a detailed information pack with route notes, maps and gps tracks (via an app) and local in-country telephone support. 

  Some holidays may also include extra services depending on the itinerary. Please refer to the individual holidays for more information.

• What do I pay for locally?

  You'll need to purchase your own lunches, dinners and drinks, pay any hotel taxes directly to the hotels and pay for any local transport that is not part of the itinerary.

• What sort of accommodation will I stay in?

  Some of the trails we offer get off the beaten track, which is part of the appeal of a self-guided holiday, and sometimes accommodation is limited. Your trip itinerary will have a comfort rating indicating accommodation ranging from simple rooms and huts, to inns, hotels, B&Bs, agrotourism and rooms attached to a restaurant. 

  All of the accommodations are chosen for their welcome and local charm and are also selected for location to facilitate the walking itinerary you have booked.

• Can you arrange my flights, airport transfers and extra hotel nights?

  Yes, we can arrange flights, airport to hotel and vv transfers and extra hotel nights at the start or the end of your holiday. Please enquire for costs.

• Arranging your own flights?

  Please do not make any financial commitment to independently booked flights until you have received our confirmation of booking. 

Travel Money