Tips for Travelers

How to find someone to share a room:

Visit our Facebook Discussion Board. Facebook is an online site that lets you find people. You can use our Facebook profile to connect with other Travel Mates travelers who may be interested in saving money on ticket prices by sharing a room.
It's a good idea to meet your new friend before the trip to ensure that you are compatible. Set up a time to meet in a public place and make new friends!

Select casual and comfortable attire and walking shoes. Any required dress code will be noted on the trip itinerary or final confirmation.
Since it is difficult to keep the temperature in a motorcoach at a level that is comfortable for everyone, a light jacket is suggested.
Always pack an extra 24-hours worth of medications that you may need while away. Never pack medications in "checked" baggage.
It is a good idea to bring a small bag with emergency essentials such as Aspirin/Tylenol, Band-Aids, Imodium, insect repellent and bug bite sticks.
If your trip involves crossing the U.S. border, be sure to carry a valid passport as proof of citizenship. Ensure that your passport is valid for six (6) months after the return date of trip.
Pack paper and a writing instrument.
Advise your friends and family of your itinerary; provide them with the name, address and phone number of your destinations (if applicable).
Pack a list of phone numbers of friends and family that can be contacted in case of an emergency.
Pack valuables such as jewelry, cameras, car keys, prescription medicines, in the carry-on bag that will accompany you to your seat. While we make every effort to safeguard your belongings, frequently the bags are out of our control when being loaded, unloaded, or transported to a hotel room.

Listen carefully to all driver's and/or tour guide's instructions. They may contain information that could be important to enjoying your trip.
Make a note of the information your driver gives you about where and when he/she is going to be picking you up and a brief description of the location.
Use commons sense. Never go into an area about which you are unsure. Ask for information and/or directions from reliable sources such as policemen, doormen, shopkeepers, travel agents, hotel and restaurant personnel, taxi drivers, or others who work with the public.
Most hotels, department stores, chain restaurants, and tourist/travel centers welcome travelers and will allow you to use their restroom facilities.
Be courteous to the citizens of the city/country you are visiting; be aware of their customs and differences in life styles. Remember you are a visitor; respect the hospitality of your host.
Introduce yourself and your traveling companion(s) to others on the motorcoach; coach travel is an excellent way to make new friends.

Thoroughly check your seat and overhead compartment on the coach for all personal belongings. We are not responsible for lost articles.
Look carefully at the luggage you have upon your return to make sure it belongs to you. Many suitcases look alike and can easily be confused; check carefully before you leave with the wrong suitcase.
Everyone appreciates being recognized for a job well done. Gratuities for the driver and tour host are not included in the tour pricing. Travel Mates feels that tipping these individuals is at the discretion of the traveler, based on the level of service provided. Your generousity, what ever you decide, will be greatly appreciated.