Flights
Explorica works hard to do everything in its power to place groups together on the most convenient flight available.
Groups will receive their tickets approximately two weeks prior to their departure date. The tickets will be sent to the program leader as either paper tickets, E-tickets, or a combination of the two. If you are traveling from a different departure point, Explorica will send you your tickets separately.
If you would like to make seat assignment requests or order a special meal for the flight you should contact the airline directly, as Explorica does not deal with in-flight details. Arrival times are not guaranteed and flights flying from the West Coast or into Eastern Europe should expect late arrivals. Tour directors will do their best to accommodate late arrivals by adjusting the tour itinerary. If there is a delay due to weather or mechanical problems, the airline will work with you to make alternative arrangements and you will join the tour already in progress.
Airlines
Explorica only works with reputable and reliable international and U.S. airlines, including: Alitalia, Air Canada, Air France, American Airlines, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, Delta Airlines, Iberia, JetBlue, Lufthansa, KLM, Swiss International Airlines, United Airlines, Avianca, Qantas Airways, and Virgin Atlantic.
Airline Baggage Policies
Some of Explorica’s airline partners may impose baggage restrictions and/or fees. Once your flight information has been released on or around 30 days prior to tour departure, check with your airline to find out if your Explorica tour flights may be affected. Here are some links to our partners' baggage policies.
At the Airport
Explorica strongly recommends arriving earlier than usual to the airport for flights originating from or traveling to international destinations. Additionally, groups should be aware that enhanced screening techniques may be in effect for select flights and destinations.
To learn more about airport security measures and to find the most up-to-date policies and procedures, please visit the Transportation Security Administration's website.
Individual flight arrangements
If you would rather make your own flight arrangements, you can sign up as a Land Only participant. This will allow you to make your own flight reservation and secure your own transportation from the airport to the first hotel to join your group. If you sign up as a Land Only participant, you will need to inform Explorica of your decision at least 130 days before your departure date.
Buses
For in-country sightseeing and transportation Explorica provides comfortable, first-class panoramic buses with professional drivers. Our buses are deluxe class, modern, efficient, and pass all national standards for their home countries. During longer bus rides, drivers will stop every two-three hours for bathroom breaks, snacks, and water where available.
Trains and Ferry Travel
For longer trips within or between countries, Explorica books high-speed trains to get you to your new destinations as quickly as possible such as Spain’s AVE, France’s famed TGV (the fastest train in Europe), and the Eurostar, which travels underneath the English Channel to connect England to France and Belgium. Ferries are also used by Explorica for short journeys between destinations that are not connected by land.