A gentleman once pulled me aside and asked, “Will you give me money back on my tour if the dollar gains value against other currencies?”
I responded, “Only if I can charge you more when it loses.”
It’s no secret that the U.S. Dollar and its relationship to other currencies continue to weigh heavily on those of us that work in the travel industry. The short story is that it’s getting more expensive for U.S. citizens to travel abroad. There is some good news though.
First, we won’t surprise you with an adjusted invoice a few months after you register for you tour. If you sign up for a tour at $1200 then that’s what you’ll get unless we make some special arrangement. In the rare case that there is some special agreement that includes a currency supplement, you’ll know about it in advance during the planning process. We sometimes do this with groups that demand a lot of flexibility and cannot always commit to an established package until closer to tour departure.
Quite simply, we will never surprise you down the road. What you sign up for is what you get. We’ll stick by it because we value loyalty. In fact, here’s an inside tip. Given the current exchange situation, the guided Engadine Trek is a real steal.
Second, our tours are becoming increasingly attractive to our guests from outside of the United States. See my post from April 18th 2007 titled, “UK Travelers get a hiking tour for half price!” Canadians, Brits, Australians, Europeans and even the Swiss benefit as their currencies become increasingly stronger against the U.S. Dollar.
Finally, (here comes the fluff): We are experts at putting together customized tours. Our planning department is in full swing and we love developing itineraries that meet your particular needs and concerns. Do you want to hike the Alps but can’t afford the luxury four-star accommodations? How about a visit to a simpler, yet uber comfortable berghaus? Many of them have private rooms, hot showers, well-stocked bars and great food. Check out my post from October 8 for a brief glimpse of one of our simpler “huts.” What’ if you’re looking to visit the U.S? Now is a great time to do it. Our Telluride Trek is sold out but we still have space on the Arches & Canyonlands hike.
Side Note: I just checked the weather for the canyon country and next week’s forecast promises sunny skies and 70 degrees.
Just give us a call. We’ll put something together that works around your budget.
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