AHTC Dolomites
FAQ
Q. How do I sign up?
A. Registration opens on Jan.8 at 8 am. To register, email a.wasserman@cruiseone.com with required information to include your name (and spouse/partner if joining) and phone number. This is the business email of our club member/co-leader/travel consultant assisting with the coordination of this trip. We will take the first 12 emails that come in (based on date/time). If you are one of the lucky twelve, Amy will give you a call within 24 hours for your payment information. Your registration is not complete until your deposit has been paid, which is a non-refundable deposit of $500. The deposit must be paid within 48 hours of receipt of your email. If not, we will move to the next in the list. NOTE: You must be an active AHTC member to sign up. Sign up for members CLOSES on Jan. 31
Q. Why is my deposit non-refundable?
A. In order to secure all components of the trip, we are obligated to pay a deposit to the hotel and tour operator leading the hikes.
Q. What happens if I put down my deposit or full payment and change my mind?
A. Depending on the timing of your requested cancellation, you may lose the amount you have put down. Please read the full cancellation terms on the website. Prior to putting in your payment, we ask that you review the itinerary carefully to ensure this is a trip that is right for you.
Q. What happens if I put down my deposit or full payment and someone (me or an immediate family member) becomes ill or I lose my job and can no longer afford to go?
A. Depending on the timing of your requested cancellation. you may lose the amount you have put down, unless, you have secured trip insurance. Additionally, we have the ability to swap out a person for a $50 administrative fee through April 30th. It is your obligation to find a replacement.
Q. What happens if for some reason the trip itself is canceled?
A. If the trip is canceled (due to co-leader emergency or other issue) prior to 70 days of departure, your refund will be returned.
Q. When is final payment due?
A. Final payment, by credit card, is due no later than April 6th.
Q. Why do I have three payments for this trip?
A. There are minimal costs not included with the group tour (such as Venice hotel for one example) that we need to pay for separately by the hiking club. To be able to process payments accordingly, you will make three payments; the first for the deposit to Utracks, one to CruiseOne for the hiking club amount ($250) and the final payment to the tour operator Utracks.
Q. Should I get trip insurance? Where do I get it from?
A. Yes. We strongly recommend you obtain trip insurance that covers medical emergencies at a minimum. There are different coverage levels that may cover pre-existing conditions; canceling for any reason; and medical situations. For pre-existing conditions and cancel for any reason, you are typically required to purchase within 13 days of putting down your deposit.
Trip insurance typically should cover the cost of airfare as well as the trip itself from the day you leave until the day you return home. There are a number of places to buy it and you may even have it already included in your credit card coverage if you use the card for the specific air and travel purchase. We will share some options with you after you have registered!
Q. The trip cost is based on 14 people. What happens if only 10 sign up?
A. If everyone signed up agrees to go with a smaller group, there would be an incremental fee of $250 per person for the trip to continue.
Q. How do I get from the airport in Venice to our hotel in Venice?
A. The airport transfer should be arranged by you. We are able to assist in setting up should you wish. This airport transfer is not included.
Q. How do I get from Venice our hotel in the Dolomites?
A. We have included one transport each way. The shuttle will be arranged for a group pick up on June 20. If you miss the shuttle, you will need to obtain your own transportation. We will provide a list of options should that occur.
Q. What will the weather be like?
A. In the Dolomites, the weather is very changeable. On average in summer months you can expect some rain on one day in two, but it is likely to come in a heavy outburst for a relatively short duration. In the valleys, daytime temperatures range on average from 53 degrees to 72 degrees, although a bit warmer is not unusual. Up in the mountains, it will be a few degrees cooler.
Q. What do we need to bring for hiking?
A. Essential equipment should include: walking/hiking boots with good ankle support and grip; waterproof/windproof jacket and pants; sun hat and high factor sun cream; warm jacket/sweater; warm gloves and hat; breathable t-shirts and shorts for sunnier, warmer days; daysack of 25-litre capacity; dry bag; water bottle/bladder; trekking poles (recommended if you typically use them)
Q. Specific hikes are listed in the itinerary. Are these definite?
A. No. The hiking guides will determine, daily, what hikes the group will do based on weather conditions and safety.
Q. Do I need a Visa for Italy or will my passport suffice?
A. You do not need a Visa for this trip in Italy. You will need a US Passport with an expiration date at least six (6) months from the date of departure. If you are not a US citizen, please check with the Italian consulate on what is required.
Please note that in Italy, it is required to carry identification with you at all times.
Q. What kind of electrical do they have?
A. Italy uses the standard European plug - 2 round pins
Q. Am I required to tip the hiking guide/s?
A. While it is not required, it is a nicety.
Q. What else is there to do in the area other than hike?
A. Each town offers unique options, including bicycling, walking, sightseeing, cable car rides, etc.
Q. Are there other expenses I need to know about that are not included?
A.
LOCAL BUSES: There may also be occasions where local buses are used that you will pay for on the spot.
EXCLUSIONS: Please review the exclusions noted on the website