ANSWERS TO IMPORTANT QUESTIONS


HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE TRIBE TOURS?

We create culturally immersive trips by engaging in experiences and locations generally not associated with popular tourism. We use local guides wherever and whenever possible and rely heavily on them to educate us in ways that foster respect for local cultures, social responsibility and, at the same time, encourage authentic interpersonal connections.

IS TRAVEL WITH THE TRIBE FOR EVERY WOMAN?

Each trip is unique, as are our personal travel styles, interests and comfort levels. We encourage you to ask questions. A lot can be learned by following us on social media, shooting us an email or contacting the individual tour operator directly. Please read over each trip itinerary carefully.

DO I HAVE TO BE PHYSICALLY FIT TO GO ON A TRIP?

Much will depend on the specific destination and itinerary. While the activities on most tours are not physically strenuous, some trips involve a good amount of walking, often over uneven or unpaved surfaces, and may not be appropriate for those with mobility limitations or restrictions. If there are remote and widespread destinations on our itinerary, there will likely be a few long drives and some activities may require early morning departures. We may occasionally rely on public local transport, tuk-tuks or rickshaws. Some trips might involve long days, crowded, chaotic cities and dusty villages. Others destinations might have a local cuisine that may not be suited to restrictive dietary requirements.

It’s especially important that you consider any pre-existing health conditions you may have to determine if a particular destination is appropriate for you. It is often an excellent idea to consult your healthcare provider. In some instances, we may require a waiver of liability. In small group travel, it’s critical to remember that one woman’s health and well-being has the power to impact us all.

IS THERE FREE TIME ON TRIBE TOURS?

Absolutely! There are blocks of unscheduled time built into each itinerary. We encourage travelers to take time for themselves whenever they wish. Plus, since we often spend multiple nights in the same accommodations, travelers are free to join in or opt out of any scheduled activity. This is your trip. We want you to make the most of it.

WHAT ARE THE ACCOMMODATIONS LIKE?

Each destination varies but, in all cases, we strive for safety, comfort, cleanliness, and a quiet atmosphere. In Morocco, you may find yourself in a century old riad in the middle of Fez, while in India, you might spend the night in a well-appointed mud hut in the desert. Private baths, yummy breakfast fare and dedication to guest satisfaction are the norms.

IS THERE A SINGLE SUPPLEMENT?

Not specifically. Because our groups are small, we choose to stay, primarily, in small, family-run guest houses and inns. We do this both to avoid the overly touristic places where large groups are shuttled in and out on a daily basis and to support the local economies of the communities we visit. There may be fewer single rooms available than the actual number of women on any given trip. This means that some room-sharing may be necessary to make a trip fly. Thus, when single rooms are at a premium, they are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. For those women who are willing to share a double room (with two beds), the cost of the trip is substantially reduced, typically, by several hundred dollars.  

HOW ARE HOTEL COSTS CALCULATED?

Each person’s tour cost is calculated based on half of the double occupancy rate because hotels calculate rooms rates for double rooms shared by two people.  When a person requests a single room, the rate still remains the same as if two people were sharing it. In that case, the entire room rate needs to be absorbed by the person who has requested the single room.

WHAT IS THE AVERAGE GROUP SIZE?

Typically the trip minimum is 8 and the maximum rarely exceeds 12.

IS THE TRAVEL TRIBE A GROUP TOUR OPERATOR?

The Travel Tribe works in partnership with a handful of carefully chosen, professional, small-group tour operators. We select destinations and co-create itineraries in conjunction with our partners. Cultivating these relationships, developing a level of trust, and planning extraordinary, culturally immersive itineraries usually require more than a year. The tour operators with whom we work must uphold the same high standards of service and integrity that we hold dear. We are confident in their ability to provide outstanding logistical and operational support and guidance, as well as thoroughly engaging tour guides responsive to the needs and desires of traveling Tribe members.

WHO ARE YOUR TOUR LEADERS? 

Our tour leaders are the backbone of each trip. All are highly vetted, professionals with years of experience as both private guides and group leaders. Your tour leader personally meets each group member upon her arrival and stays with the group until departure day. Depending upon destination, some guides will be male and others will be female. All are unflappable, socially dynamic, and capable of pulling a rabbit out of a hat if and whenever necessary.

HOW SOON SHOULD I BOOK MY TRIP?

Our trips can fill quickly and unpredictably. Private rooms are often limited and usually sell out first. (Once a trip fills, we will try to replace quickly with another wonderful opportunity).

DO ALL TRIPS HAVE GUARANTEED DEPARTURES?

No. Each tour requires a minimum number of traveler bookings before a trip can be confirmed.  If a tour does not meet the minimum number of travelers after an extended period, the trip will be canceled, and all deposits will be refunded in full. (Again, we will try to replace it quickly with another great trip.)

WHAT ARE YOUR DEPOSIT POLICIES?

The deposit policy may vary from trip to trip. If a trip interests you, please be sure to read the Payment Terms carefully. In general, deposit policies have tightened to discourage last minute cancellations. We believe a deposit represents a commitment. Please consider trips carefully before you book.

 IS TRAVEL INSURANCE REQUIRED TO JOIN A TRIP?

Although, at this time it is not required on all trips, in general, travel insurance is increasingly becoming mandatory. Minimize your potential risk. Be sure you have insurance policies that cover both your health and the cost of your trip as well. It's not called insurance for nothing.