Contiki FAQ Santorini

Q: In Santorini, should i ride the cable car or go on the donkeys?

A: This depends on what you want to do. They both cost the same and both will have lines waiting for them. The donkey will take longer and be smellier, but if you ride the cable car, you can be sitting at the top or bottom watching those ride the donkeys while you are having a cool drink at one of the bars. 

Q: In Santorini, where is the location where all the great pictures are taken?

A: This is a small town in Santorini, called Oia. It is located on the tip of the island, about a 30 – 40 minute drive from the main town. Throughout the town are some great areas for pictures, including some famous locations as see in pictures all over the world. You can just wander around the town and it also has some great views of the sunset. You can do this with contiki as part of an optional.

Q: What is the best way to get around Santorini?

A: Walking is the best way to get around the main town, but you can use the cable car or donkeys to go down to the port. In heading out to other towns, busses and taxis are available, also you can hire cars, quad bikes or scooters.

Q: In Santorini, what does contiki do at night?

A: If you are with contiki, chances are that you are in a bar of some kind in the main town. This is usually a contiki activity.

Q: In Santorini, how long is it from the ferry dock to the contiki hotel?

A: It is about a 30 minute drive, depending on traffic. But there are some great views.

 

Contiki FAQ Las vegas

Q: How long does it take to go from Los Angeles to Las Vegas?

A: This is a short journey. You may leave Los Angeles about 7.30-8am and will arrive in Las Vegas around 12 – 1pm. You will make a rest stop at some point, to get food and use the ATM.

Q: What happens when you arrive in Las Vegas with Contiki?

A: This depends on the tour, if you are with the grand southern, you will get to Las Vegas about 1pm, but it will be too early to check in. Your tour manager will tell you what time to meet back at the coach, (which is parked at the hotel parking lot area). From here it is free time. You walk through the hotel onto the casino floor and out onto the strip. A few hours later head back to the coach, get your luggage and head up to the your room that the tour manager has organized for you. You have a few hours to rest before the night activities begin. This is the driving tour, dinner, Fremont street and bars and clubs. If on the grand northern, you will arrive in Vegas in time to check in, so head straight to the room.

Q: Contiki offers the services of a club promoter in Las Vegas, is this any good or is it worth it?

A: When you get to Las Vegas, your tour manager will tell you that contiki gets the services of a club promoter and it will cost $10 per night for this service. Basically the club promoter will get you into the club without waiting in line, girls may get a free drink and that is all. The club promoter may hang around, but once inside, you are by yourself. Also you may get to go to a pool party the next day. What is the club?, this depends on the promoter, it may be good or it may be crap. Try and find out what the clubs are, if you know your clubs, but at least go to a club one night while you are there.

Q: What happens on the Vegas limo rides?

A: When Contiki visits Las Vegas, you are treated to a limo ride in the city. This usually happens on the second night. What happens is that you get into groups of 6 – 8 and get into a limo. There is free champaign bottles and glasses. You are driven on the strip and may make a stop at the sign for a picture opp. The ride ends at the club you will be going to. It is just a fun way of seeing vegas, although you are more into having fun then seeing outside the window.

Q: How easy is it to see the Welcome to Las Vegas sign?

A: It is on the road out of town. Your coach may stop here for a group picture or just stop here because of the sign. If you are on limo rides, they may go past it. All you need to do is take a picture.

Q: What is there to do during my free time in Las vegas?

A: You can visit the casinos – see the various attractions inside them, from the aquarium, to shows to restaurants, go gambling, go shooting, do day tours outside the city, explore the strip, visit various shops or just relax with a drink or two.

Q: In Las Vegas what are some tips on drinking and gambling?

A: To gamble in Las vegas, go in with the mindset that you are going to loose. Some of the cheaper table games are in the old part or some of the older casinos on the strip. When playing at poker machines or on the table you can also get drinks for free – just a tip is needed. Go up to any bar and essentially get what ever drink you want. Drinks in clubs will be expensive, but in casino bars they will be cheaper.

Q: In Las vegas can you hang out in casinos if you are not drinking or gambling?

A: Sure, there are plenty of other things to do in these casinos. Just walking around a casino is fun.

Q: What types of casinos are there in Vegas?

A: There are the big fancy ones that everyone knows about – caesars, mgm, new york, paris, luxor, these have attraction inside them including shows, then there are the ones in old town vegas. These ones are smaller and cheaper to gamble at.

Q: In Las vegas, what is Harrahs hotel like?

A: The hotel is large, but not as large as others on the strip. The hotel smells of smoke. The rooms are nice, but the hotel doesn't have much in the way of offerings. There are also not many restaurants in the hotel itself.

Q: Can i go to a shooting gallery in Las vegas?

A: Yes, there are plenty to choose from, where you can shoot a huge range of weapons at good prices. The best one is battlefield vegas, they also send out a car or limo to pick you up from your hotel.

Q: What is old vegas like?

A: Old vegas is not as flashy as the new areas, the casinos are smaller, but there is more atmosphere. There is lots of street entertainment and the freemont street exhibition is here. The tables are also cheaper as well.

Q: In Vegas is there much traffic on the strip.

A: Depending on where on the strip, it can be gridlocked or there can be nothing. Up between the airport and the Wynn, there is always traffic.

Q: In Vegas, how long does it take to get from the New area to the old area of Vegas?

A: Depending on traffic, it can take about 15 – 20 minutes.

Q: How long does it take to go from kanab to Las vegas?

A: With Contiki, you make a few stops, including at zion national park for about 3hrs, and a walmart for about 1hr. So you may leave Krabi at 8am, you will not get to Las vegas until 3 – 4pm.

Q: In Vegas, is there any difference between the grand southern and grand Northern?

A: The only difference is that in the grand southern you arrive early and leave early, Grand northern you arrive late and leave late. There are the same optionals (depending on time of year), same hotel, same inclusions etc.

Q: In Las vegas, what do you do about tipping in the casinos.

A: You should tip $1 for each drink and $1 when you leave a table if you win. This is generally a good outline.

Contiki FAQ San Francisco

Q: In San Francisco, is it easy to ride or walk over the golden gate bridge?

A: This is very easy. Start in Fisherman's wharf, follow the signs and soon you are at the bridge. Follow the path onto the bridge and travel across it. It is a fairly flat ride, except heading up to the bridge. Once on the bridge, it can be very windy, but there are some good views. From the other side, head into the town a few km's down the road, that is the hilly part or head back. Once at the small town, grab a coffee or ice cream while waiting for the ferry to get across the water. It is a good way to spend a few hours.

Q: Is it hard to get to the airport in San Francisco?

A: The airport is on the BART. It is easy to find one of these stations and then you just catch the train straight to the airport.

Q: In San Francisco, is using the cable cars considered very touristy?

A: Yes they are very touristy and really you will only find tourists on them, but it is a must do in this city. There will be a line up, they will be crowded, but just do it. Travel over the hill, it will also save walking those hills.

Q: Is it safe to walk around San Francisco at night?

A: Usually it is, but as per usual be careful of where you walk.

Q: In San Francisco what is fisherman's wharf/ pier 39 like?

A: This is a very touristy area, lots of interesting shops and restaurants. However it does have the sea lions as well as a few interesting museums in the area. Go there explore and take pictures. It is a fun area to be in.

Q: In San Francisco, is it easy to hire a bike?

A: In this city depending on where you are it is very easy. At the fisherman's wharf area there are bike shops, stands by the side of the road or auto bike pick up/ drop off. It is also cheap rates as well.

Q: In San Francisco, is it easy to get around golden gate park?

A: You should hire a bike and ride through it. It is a large park with lots to see and do there.

Q: In San Francisco, where do day tours usually meet?

A: Depending on the tour company of course, but either they will pick you up at your hotel or hostel or you will have to meet at their office or bus deport.

Contiki FAQ - Richmond, Virginia

Q: What happens in Richmond, Virginia when on a contiki.

A: Richmond is just a stop on the way to Washington dc. It is a lunch stop. However you do get a bit of history of the place, a drive through town and then you stop at a supermarket area. In this location is an ATM and places to get food and other supplies. You don't spend long here, maybe 90 minutes all up.

Contiki FAQ Niagra falls

Q: How does Contiki visit Niagara falls?

A: Contiki does not stay here, they come from Toronto – about a 2hr drive. Once here there is some picture time before heading on the maid of the mist. This lasts about 40 minutes, then you have a bit of time if you are doing any helicopter optionals, in which you have to meet up again and get driven to the helicopters. After this is finished, you are driven back to the main street.. Once all the optionals are done, there is a bit more free time to explore the tourist area and then it is time to head back to Toronto.

Q: How long does it take to get to Niagara falls from Toronto?

A: Contiki makes a day of this. You start from Toronto, head to Niagara falls, spend a few hours here and then head back to Toronto. Depending on traffic it can take 90 mins to 2hrs.

Contiki FAQ San diego

Q: In San Diego – go to the zoo or to sea world?

A: If you have time why not do both. The zoo is very large, there is lots to see, you can spend the whole day there. Sea world is a theme park, lots of animals as well but also rides and other things to see and do. 

Q: In San diego, is the zoo worth visiting?

A: Yes, it is a big place, lots of animals to see and animals that are well taken care of. You can wander around all day and not see everything. There are also place to eat inside as well. Go have an explore. You will have fun.

Q: In San diego, can i visit some of the breweries?

A: Yes, some you need to do a tour, others you need to be on a tour and there are some where you can just turn up. They are fun places to visit.

Q: What is the best way to get around San diego?

San diego has lots of busses, also a great tram system. The downtown is also easy to walk around as well.

Q: What other things can i do in san diego?

A: You can visit seaworld, brewery tours, see the uss midway, visit the maritime museum, explore the shops, explore the parks and enjoy the food.

Q: How do i get from the centre of san diego to the airport?

A: There is an airport bus that leaves from the centre of san diego. They leave every hour or so and only take 30 minutes to get there. It is also cheap.

 

Contiki FAQ Corfu

Q: With contiki, how do they get to and from Corfu.

A: You leave by ferry, from the town of Bari in Italy. The ferry takes about 11 – 12 hours and you arrive in Greece. You then either stay the rest of the night in a hotel in the port area or head to the Corfu ferry to head over to the island. This takes about 2hrs. On the island, there is a transfer to the hotel. Getting back to the mainland of Greece is a simple as getting on the ferry and making the 2hr trip back.

Q: Where can i do water-sports in Corfu while on a Contiki tour?

A: Contiki no longer offers water-sports as an optional, but just out the front of the hotel is a place you can do them. They are set up on the beach, just go up and see what they have on offer from parasailing to banana boats. You may get a discount if you tell them you are with contiki, but you may not.

Q: What is the food like on George's boat?

A: On George's boat in corfu, the food is great, very fresh and lots of it. Meats freshly cooked, salads fresh from his garden, freshly baked bread. The food is all included, you can also buy beers and wines on board as well. So swim, eat drink and dance, it is all fun on george's boat.

Q: In Corfu for the toga party, where do you get the sheets from?

A: You get them from reception – you have to hire them at 2 euro each.

Q: In Corfu, how do you make a toga?

A: You will get a demo from your tour manager and the contiki staff on how to make one. They will show you a few different ways. Then it is up to you.

Contiki FAQ Venice

Q: In Venice is it easy to get lost?

A: Start off in St marks square and just go for a wander, soon you will be in random streets. When you want to head back just look up for the bell tower – that is st marks square. It is easy to get lost, but not so easy to stay lost.

Q: In Venice how can i get into St marks church without waiting in line?

A: This is a bit sneaky but it is all good. All you need is a backpack, just a general day bag. Bags are not allowed in the church, so you need to drop it off at a luggage storage place, they will give you a ticket, you then use the ticket to get into the church. It is good because you can skip the line, see what you want and leave. The church itself is free but there are a few small museums that need paying for inside.

Q: In Venice, where is the best place to get food without being ripped off?

A: Go to St marks square and then head away from it. Go a few streets over and you should be able to find cheap food that is still good. Eating in St marks square is expensive.

Q: How long does it take to get from fusina campsite into the city if venice by boat?

A: Depending on water traffic, it should take about 45 minutes.

Q: In Venice is the glass blowing demo worth it?

A: You get to see something interesting and then you head to the show room (shop) where you can purchase Venetian glass. If that is for you, then sure, go enjoy it.

Q: In Venice, are there lots of bugs and mosquitoes at the contiki camp, what to do about them?

A: There are lots of bugs and mosquitoes at the camp that contiki uses, but it is the same for all around Venice as the city was built in a swamp. The camp shop sells bug spray that works well, or bring your own. They don't bother too much when it is windy or when you are very drunk.

Contiki FAQ Istanbul and turkey

Q: In Istanbul are carpet salesmen really as bad as people say they are?

A: Unless you want a carpet, stay away from them. They are usually all around the tourist areas and will try multiple ways to get you to come inside and buy a carpet. They also know all the currency exchange rates for that day. They also don't take no for an answer.

Q: In turkey, is it safe to drink the tap water?

A: Like Italy and Greece, it is cheaper to buy bottled water because sometimes the tap water can be unsafe.

Q: Is it easy to get a Turkish bath in Istanbul?

A: This is a fairly simple process. You just need to find a spa place, head there, purchase a session and do it. It is about an hour long and will get you clean. They are also cheap.

Q: In Istanbul is getting the museum pass worth it?

A: The museum pass covers the palace and a lot of the museums that are in the same area. You can skip the lines with it. However you do need at least 1 and a half days to use this, so if you are in the city for more then a few days, it is worth it.

Q: Can you buy alcohol in Istanbul?

A: You can buy alcohol in a lot of places in the city, including street side shops and at bars and restaurants. It is not as easy to get as the rest of Europe, but you can get it. It is also cheap, but not as cheap as the rest of Europe.

Q: In Istanbul is it easy to get to the Asian side?

A: There are bridges across the water and also ferries. The other side has some histoy and you can say you were on another continent.

Q: In Istanbul, how do you get around?

A: Istanbul has a great tram – it goes through the touristy areas. There are also taxis and buses. However the area is small enough that you can walk it easy.

Q: In Istanbul, who long doe it take to get from the airport to the main tourist areas of the city?

A: It is about a 20 minute by train, then another 20-30 min trip by tram.

Q: How long should i spend in Istanbul.

A: 3 days should be enough to see as much as you want to see, however add more to suit your needs.

Q: Are there many ATM's in Istanbul?

A: Istanbul has as many atms as any normal city, they are easy to find and usually have a fee to get money out.

Q: Do many people speak English in Istanbul?

A: Lots of people speak English, it is easy to talk to people.

Contiki FAQ General europe

Q: What cities in Europe have good ghost tours?

A: London has some good ghost walks, so does York and Edinburgh. Prague has a good one at the town hall. There are also ones in Munich, Rome and Nuremberg. A lot of cities would also have something, it just takes time looking for them.

Q: Are the sandeman walking tours in Europe any good?

A: These are free walking tours in the major centers of Europe. They are conducted by people that know the area. They are well done and ask for tips at the end. There are also themed tours that cost to go on, but they are worth it as well. You basically meet at a certain place and walk with the guide, stopping at various points, listening to history and learning about the city. They are a great way to see the city.

Q: In Europe where are some other changing of the guard locations?

A: There are a few other changing of the guard ceremonies that are interesting. Windsor, Prague, Athens. There is also a changing of the guard at the Arlington cemetery in Washington dc. Most only last for a few minutes, but are good for a picture opp.

Q: Is it hard to get European power plugs?

A: European power plugs are slightly different to Australian and USA ones, it is very easy to get an adaptor. All you need to do is go to a place that sells luggage or one of the places in the airport. Voltage is almost the same as well, or close to that nothing matters, unless you are from the USA.

Q: In Europe, do you need to dress up every night?

A: Except in Monaco and maybe Paris, you don't really need to dress up to go out every night if you are on a Contiki. It is not expected and in summer it is too hot to do so anyway. Just wear nice and you will be fine.

Q: What is a typical travel day with contiki like in Europe?

A: You wake up, have breakfast and then pack bags and put them in the coach. The day sheet would tell you all the times to do this. You then hop on the coach and drive off. The tour manager would start off with the day song, then move onto what is happening today and then information on upcoming things. After that you relax, may listen to music or watch a movie. You will make stops for toilet breaks or to get food every so often. On the coach you may also play games. Arriving in the city, you may do a quick city tour or head to the accommodation. The evening may be at the place of accommodation, doing optionals in the city, included dinners or walk about dinners, usually heading to the nearest bar would be an option.

Q: What is a typical city exploring day like with Contiki.

A: Usually you would get up, have the included breakfast and then meet up in the lobby or at the coach for the lift into the city. Sometimes the hotel is close enough to the city that you could walk in. Then either walking into the city or getting off the coach at the drop off point, the day is free to do what you like. Sometimes there are optionals in the day or maybe in the morning, so pay attention to that. In the afternoon there may be a pick up back to the hotel or you may make your way back yourself, then later that night there may be an included dinner, optional dinner or walk about dinner followed by some sort of going out – from a nearby pub to an optional.

Q: On a contiki tour, how do you choose your roommate in Europe?

A: This depends on the type of tour. If you are doing a concept tour, then a rooming list will go around and you just put your name where you want to and others will do the same. If you are doing a hotel tour, then your roommate will be chosen by your tour manager or someone from the contiki office will do that on a random selection. You can change roommates by asking your tour manager if you don't get along.

Q: How fit do you need to be for a Europe trip with a tour company?

A: You don't need to be that fit, as long as you can walk around and get off the coach easily, you will be fine. Some places you may need to know how to ride a bike, but usually it is just walking around a city.

Q: Are budget airlines ok to use?

A: If you are looking for cheap flights that you have to pay for all the extras than they are fine and worth using. First work out how much a ticket will cost once you add on taxes, fees and all the other charges.

Q: Do you change time zones a lot in Europe on a tour?

A: If you are doing a general tour of Europe you will change time zones crossing the channel and then when you head to Greece, the rest of the locations are on the same time zone.

Q: What are breakfast like in Europe while on tour?

A: Depending on the country thay can be either very good or very bad. Some may have only coffee and toast, others will have more of a mix of different things. German breakfasts are very good while French breakfasts are poor.

Q: On a contiki tour in Europe, what other nationalities will be on my tour?

A: Depending on the tour and where it is going but usually people from Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, USA, Canada and great Britain. In Smaller numbers people from Japan, Korea, Singapore, hong kong, italy, Brazil and Ireland.

Q: Im Australian, do i need a visa for Europe?

A: In Europe you don't need a visa unless you plan to stay more then 3 months in the zone. Most other countries this rule is the same or similar.

Q: On a contiki tour in Europe, do you get to do/ see much culture?

A: There is culture to be had, also party if you want to. For example frog legs in France, flamenco dancing in Spain, beer halls in Germany, cultural dinners in eastern Europe, fondu in Switzerland. Plus the many museums in many cities The culture is there, you just need to choose to do it.

Q: When booking a tour to Europe for next year, when do the dates come out?

A: The dates for most tour companies for a tour around Europe for the following year in summer come out sometime between September and October.

Q: In Europe are there tvs in the hotels that contiki uses?

A: Yes there are, but there is little time to watch tv when there is a whole city to explore.

Q: In Europe, do you use credit cards a lot while on a tour?

A: You can pay for your optionals using a credit card. You can use a credit card all around the cities to buy normal things, but you can also use cash.

Q: On a contiki tour going from Amsterdam to London, what happens in terms of stops?

A: You make 1 stop on the way from Amsterdam to Calais, board the ferry and cross the channel, then it is straight onto London. Total trip time 6 – 7 hours maybe more depending on traffic and crossing time.

Q: When is summer in Europe?

A: Summer is essentially from May to Late September, depending on the countries of course. 

Q: In Bratislava, how longs does contiki stay here for?

A: Contiki stays for about 90 minutes, enough time for lunch and to wander around the city.

Q: In Europe are the same power plugs used all over?

A: The same type of power plug for cords is used all over western europe and most of eastern europe, except for the UK. It is the same voltage as Australia as well. It is two round pegs.

Q: In the various concentration camps, do you learn about the history of them?

A: You learn what they were used for and the day to day activities of the camps. You can see pictures of how they were run, also who ran them and the prisoners. It is not a happy story.

Q: What are ATM fees like in Europe?

A: Depends on the city and the country, but generally they are about 2.50 euro per transaction. Sometimes they may go up to 4 Euro.

 

Contiki FAQ Berlin

Q: How long should i spend in Berlin before or after my tour?

A: With contiki you get at least 2 nights there, sometimes three depending on the tour. Berlin has lots to do and see – museums, gardens, walking tours, lots of history. It depends on what you want to do and see, but if you are starting your tour in Berlin or ending it here, spend a few extra days to explore. There are some good pub crawls as well.

Q: What are pub crawls in Berlin like?

A: Berlin has lots of cool bars and clubs. It also has a number of bar crawls. They are very much like the London ones, free drink each bar, some discounts etc. Some Berlin bars are also themed. It is an interesting experience and very fun.

Q: In Berlin, do you get to see the east side gallery with Contiki?

A: Contiki does bring you to the east side gallery as part of the tour. The east side gallery is part of the Berlin wall that now has artwork on it. You have time to see as much as you can. Contiki takes you usually at the beginning of the day.

Q: At the end of the eastern road tour, you end up back in berlin, what happens that night?

A: Most people by the time you get back to the start hotel have already left the tour – either in warsaw or at the train station. Anyone left will be exhausted and not up for anything. There is the hotel bar and a restaurant across the street. You get back to Berlin about 5 – 6pm.

Q: In Berlin, where does the contiki coach make pick ups and drop offs.

A: The coach makes pick up and drop offs at alexanderplatz, near the park side, rather then the metro side. There are other coach pick ups here.

Q: How Long does a contiki tour take to get from Berlin to Prague?

A: The tour leaves Berlin in the early morning and arrives in Prague about 3 – 4pm. There is a stop made in Dresden for lunch and time to explore, but the rest of the time it is on the coach.

Q: In Berlin, what is a curry-worst?

A: It is a snack. It is a sausage that is covered with curry sauce, sometimes it may have bread, but usually it is served by itself. They are tasty and a must to try

Q: In Berlin, are there beer halls like in Munich?

A: No, that is more for Munich. Berlin does have a few but they are not as good or as popular as Munich. Berlin has lots of little bars

Q: What is the best way to get around Berlin?

A: The best way is either walk or catch the metro. The metro is cheap and easy and goes to many places.

Contiki FAQ Raleigh and charleston

Q: What happens when you get to Raleigh on a contiki tour?

A: This place is visited on the way to Washington DC, you stay one night here. You get here in the late afternoon, early evening and head to the hotel and find rooms. After a quick change around, you get back on the coach and head to an included dinner – a buffet. After dinner there is not much to do in town, so people go bowling, the coach drops those that want to bowl there and heads back to the hotel. From the bowling alley, you take a taxi back to the hotel. Not much is done here as it is a stopping point.

Q: In Charleston usa what does one do on a contiki tour there?

A: The iteniery has now changed and you do a full night stop here rather then a stop on the way to Raleigh from Savannah. But it used to be that you would have a few hours to explore, there would be the bus tour around the city to explore the sites, then a drop off at the market to have a look around further. It is better now that there is more time, you can see more as it is a beautiful city.

Q: In Raleigh, contiki goes to a buffet for dinner, is is any good?

A: The food is ok, it is buffet food. There are good desserts.

Q: In Raleigh, what is there to do at night?

A: You may not want to go out and save yourself for Washington, however there are bars, but you need to take a taxi from the hotel. There is a bowling alley that is cheap that a lot of groups go to, the bus can drop you there on the way back to the hotel.

Contiki FAQ - St augustine and KSC.

Q: What happens when you get to St Augustine on a contiki tour?

A: You get to St Augustine late in the day – about mid afternoon, as you have spent the morning at the Kennedy space center. You drive through town and stop at the hotel. That night is an included dinner at a place across the road from the hotel – usually pizza. After this is free time. There are a few bars nearby, or you can take the short walk into town to other bars. There are also ghost walks in town as well. But there are no organized contiki activities this night.

Q: What happens at the Kennedy space center with Contiki?

A: You arrive at the Kennedy space center with the group, you tour manager gets you tickets and then you have free time to do as you like. There is the bus tour of the site, down to the Apollo centre, where there is also some food options. There is an imax, a chance to see one of the shuttles, shops to buy various things, the rocket gardens and some other bits and pieces. You get a few hours to explore, make the most of it.

Q: In St Augustine, are there ghost tours that you can do with Contiki?

A: St Augustine, one of the oldest cities in the USA, has lots of history about ghosts. Contiki does not offer ghost tours here, but you can do one with a small group or by yourself. It is a short walk from the contiki hotel to the main street and the ghost tours meet here. They are well run, there a many of them at any time and they are cheap. It is an interesting night activity.

Q: How far is cocoa beach from the Kennedy space centre?

A: It is about a 45 minute trip.

Q: In St Augustine is the hotel wifi any good?

A: The wifi is ok, outside of the rooms. You can't do much on it because everyone else is trying to use it as well.

Contiki FAQ Themed parties

Q: What sort of themed parties are there on a Contiki in the USA?

A: There are a few types of themed parties that contiki does when in the USA. Unlike europe, there is no real mixing of other tour groups beyond a certain point, so any party is held with the group itself. There are cowboy themed dress ups, whiteboard parties, PJ parties, Halloween themed parties, wear pink on Wednesdays (mean girls), ABC parties and other ones like that. Ones that you may need to go to Walmart to pick up some things.

Q: What sort of themed parties are there on an European Contiki tour?

A: As many tours meet up with other tours on the road, there is more chances to party with other groups. Some parties include – American style, pirates, white, Swiss themed, toga, Irish themed, whiteboard, masked parties. Usually easy ones to dress up to.

Q: What is a contiki whiteboard party?

A: This is where you get a white tshirt, sometimes one of the I Love city shirts. Everyone writes on the shirt. It is usually done at the end of the tour and with plenty of alcohol involved. Both the USA and Europe contiki tours do them and they are very popular.

Q: Where does contiki do its theme parties?

A: Most of the theme parties will be on concept or camping tours, they would likely be in The french wine region, Rome, Venice, Austria, Switzerland, Corfu, Mykonos, Ios and Croatia. But there will be other locations as well.

Q: For a contiki theme party should i bring stuff from home?

A: There is no need to bring anything from home. You can pick up anything you may need cheaply on the road or in a city. You should be able to make do with what you have.

Contiki FAQ Athens

Q: How long should i stay in Athens before moving on?

A:Athens is a dirty city, but there is lots to do and see, it is also the gateway for the Greek islands. Spend 1 day exploring the ruins – the acropolis and forum areas as well as some of the main streets around. Spend a second or maybe third day in the museums and then get out. If your tour includes Athens, then that should be the right amount of time, if your tour starts in Athens consider getting there a day or so early and exploring, when you get back from the islands, leave as soon as possible.

Q: How do you get to the Ferry port in Athens?

A: This depends on where you are starting from and what time of day. If you are in the city, then the metro is good as it heads right to the port, no problems. A taxi is also good, but there is lots of traffic early in the morning. Hotels around the port offer transfers to the dock that you need to go to. Contiki also has a bus that transfers the tour to the port.

Q: I have free time in Athens, what sort of day trips can i do?

A: There is lots to do in Athens or outside Athens. Have a look on Viator to see some of the day trips. You can do day trips to some of the nearby islands, take a sail around, head to the temple of Apollo or go to Delphi. You can also visit some of the nearby towns.

Q: On the Athens city tour with Contiki, what do you see?

A: The driving tour that contiki takes you on, during the free day in Athens allows you to see lots of the city. You start at the Acropolis and have time to walk up to it and take pictures. You then are driven to the old stadium, can walk up and take pictures, then are driven past the temple of Olympian zeus, past some of the museums, the national gardens and end up at Syntagma square. Here the tour ends as you watch the changing of the guard. As for the rest of the plaka and syntagma square, it is only a short walk from here, but the main things are covered and everything else is included in the Acropolis ticket, so you can take the time to go and see it on your own time.

Q: How do you transfer from one tour to the other in Athens?

A: If you are going from a tour that is ending to one that is beginning in Athens, the tour that is beginning will know that you are in the city. Other people from your tour will be in the same boat. Usually a mini bus will be sent for you at the end hotel of the ending tour. This will take you to the starting point for the new tour. It should be easy and your old tour guide should know when this pick up will happen.

Q: On a Greek island cruise, how much time do you spend in Athens?

A: This would depend on when you arrive in the city, but usually there is not much time in the city before the cruise/ mykonos, just the night before and how much time you spend in the city after coming back from the cruise.

Q: What is Athens public transport like?

This is cheap and fast. The trains are good, so is the light rail. It is crowded, so watch for pickpockets. It is a good way to get out to the airport.

Q: Is Athens dangerous in terms of street crime?

A: Just like in any big city, make sure that you are aware at all times. Watch out in tourist areas and on public transport and you should be fine. Also don't carry too much money around with you.

Q: Is it easy to post things in Greece?

A: It is not that easy. First you need to find a post office – there is a large one in Athens. They are usually crowded and the staff don't really speak English. If your package is over a certain weight, then they will send you to another counter. It can be done but it is hard and time consuming.

Q: What are some things to do in Athens at night?

A: There are plenty of bars and clubs around, head to one of those. There is also lots of roof top bars, usually at your own hotel, head up there and admire the views of the city.

Q: What are some other things to see in Athens?

A: Go hit some of the museums – war museum and coin museum or go see the first modern stadium. There is also walk to some of the hills around the city or go to the beach.

Q: On a driving tour of Athens with contiki, how long do you get to spend at the acropolis?

A: You get about 45 minutes to walk to the top, take some pictures and meet back at the meeting point. Some of this is with a guided tour, other parts by yourself. However that is enough time to walk around, take pictures and explore, as it is hot and crowded up here.

Q: Do hotels in the port area of Athens provide transfers to the ferry port?

A: Yes, most do. You do have to ask for a transfer and the time that you want it.

Q: What is Athens weather like in summer?

A: It can be very hot, with occasional rain storm lasting for a few minutes. But mostly sunny.

Contiki FAQ Los Angeles

Q: In Los angeles should i go to disneyland or Universal studios?

A: This depends on what you like, if you like Disney stuff, go there.

Universal studios has lots of good rides, lots to see and it is easy to get to by public transport. Disney on the other hand is far away from downtown or Hollywood, but there are 2 parks here, there are lots of well known rides and it is Disney after all. In the end why not do both.

Q: How hard is it getting around Los angeles?

A: Los angeles is a very spread out city. To get from the airport to Downtown a bus is available, so that is no problem. You can catch the metro out to Hollywood, but if you want to go to Santa Monica, then a bus is the only way. Taxi's are fine but they are expensive overall.

Q: How should i explore hollywood?

A: Hollywood can be easily explored by walking around. However to see as much as possible, get on the hop on hop off bus, or go on an organized tour. You will be able to see as much as possible, then go back and walk around the star walk.

Q: In Los Angeles where is the location of the Contiki start hotel for the Grand Southern?

A: The hotel is in Downtown, it is in the Little Tokyo area. It is also a short walk to the union station. Around the hotel there are lots of restaurants and shops, it is a safe area. 

Q: How hard is it getting to Santa Monica from downtown Los Angeles.

A: It is not hard. You could drive, or starting from downtown, find big blue bus number 10. This takes you all the way to Santa Monica, the road in front of the beach. Just jump on and about 45 minutes later – depending on traffic, you are there.

Q: Is downtown Los Angeles safe?

A: Like all big cities, some have safer areas then others. Downtown LA is actually safe, but outside this area, is not wroth going to, plus there is no reason to go there anyway.

Q: In Los angeles, how do you get to universal studios?

A: The easiest way is to get on the red line metro and get off at the universal studios stop. From here, you cross a road and walk up the hill to the entrance. That is the best route, you could drive, but you would have to pay for parking.

 

Contiki FAQ Ireland including dublin

Q: I have just finished the Great Britian and Ireland or just Ireland tour, the tour finishes in Dublin but i want to travel further, can i get a lift with the coach?

A: After the tour finishes in Dublin, the coach heads back to London. Most people either stay in Dublin or head back to London. You can ask your driver if you can get dropped off at the port, as that is the way the coach will go as well, but it also depends on the tour manager.

Q: How long should i stay in Dublin before starting a tour?

A: Dublin has lots to do and see as well as pub crawls at night. Allow 1 day to see museums and 1 day to see the sights of the city, you can easily add on another day to do a tour outside the city. However with Contiki, you arrive in the afternoon of 1 day and pend the night before moving on the next day, when you return back to dublin, you have that afternoon and then leave the next day. Either stay in Dublin afterwards in come in before hand.

Q: What is Dublin's temple bar area like?

A: The temple bar area is full or bars, pubs and restaurants. It is the main tourist zone of the city. It is a fun place to be. The temple bar itself is hard to miss as it is red. There are also lots of tourist around it and inside it. It is a very crowded place. It is worth it to try and get inside and have a look around if you can get in. There might also be some live music inside.

Q: Is Northern Ireland safe?

A: Of course it is. It was dangerous many years ago, but now it is safe. You can go visit the spots where the troubles happened. Go visit and explore.

Q: In Ireland, how much time do you get to see the giant's causeway?

A: This is a large area and there is lots to see. It is also down a hill, so to get there you walk down the hill after being dropped off by the coach, you walk through the visitors centre, pick up the audio guide and walk down the hill. At the bottom is the rock formations known as the giants causeway. You take some pictures around the area and then walk back up. You may get from 1hr – 90 minutes to see it and that is all you need. Just remember that you need to climb back up the hill. There is a shuttle bus that goes down, but this costs 1 pound.

Q: If im doing the Ireland tour, what happens when the tour gets back to Dublin?

A: The tour gets back to Dublin early, but you don't go to the hotel. There is a drop off at the Guinness storehouse for those doing the optional and then a meeting time is arranged at the hotel to collect bags and check in. So there is a bit of free time. So when you get back to the hotel you have a few more hours, then you meet up again and go to the final optional – merry ploughboys pub, eat and drink here, then it is back to the city to hit the bars there. The tour then ends the next day.

Q: What happens in Belfast when you are on a contiki tour?

A: Belfast is not an overnight stop. You get on the coach in Dublin heading for Derry with a few stops. Belfast is one of the stops. You arrive, stop for a rest stop and wait for the local guide. Once the local guide gets on, the coach will drive around the significant areas of the city, the guide will point out the local history, you will see the various murals and go through the city. A stop will be made at the wall where people have left peace messages, take a few minutes to have a look around here. From here you go over to the titanic museum, you won't have time to look at the whole museum, just enough for a quick look around. From here the coach heads back into the main city centre and you may have 45 mins to 1hr to explore and grab lunch before meeting the coach again and leaving the city.

Q: In Galway, how does contiki get to the Aran islands?

A: This is part of the tour and thus is included. You catch the coach from the hotel to the ferry terminal. This takes about 1hr and then it is a 45 minute trip by ferry onto the island. A very easy trip just take a book or something.

Q: On the Aran islands, what can you do there?

A: Most people will hire a bike and ride around the island, seeing the beach, the fort, the pubs. If you don't like riding, there is also walking and there is a bus that goes around the island. Most people go and get lunch from one of the shops near the port and then head to the fort, taking time to explore the island.

Q: In Galway, how much free time do you have on arrival day?

A: The coach gets into the city about 11.30am and would pick you up about 3pm. In that time you have enough time to see the main sights of the city, have lunch and maybe do some shopping. There is a good ice cream place in one of the malls.

Q: What do you see on an organized walking tour of dublin?

A: There are a number of walking tours of this city. You will see the town hall, the castle, the walls. Learn about the history of the city and the vikings. You will also walk around the temple bar area and head to the st Patrick church or the christchurch cathedral. All the walks are good and you do learn stuff about the city.

Q: In Cork in Ireland, how much free time do you get?

A: When you arrive in cork, you have several hours before the included dinner. This is enough time to walk around the city, have a look at some of the churches, see the market or go shopping. It is only a small city anyway. The hotel is in a good location for a walk around.

Q: In cobh, Ireland at the Titanic museum, how much time do you have to explore?

A: Cobh is home to the Titanic museum. There is a bit to see here. Generally you are given about 1hr – 90 minutes to explore. This is enough time to see the exhibitions and displays, see the shop and maybe have a coffee.

Q: There are two Jameson distillery tours in Ireland, which one is best?

A: There is a Jameson distillery in Dublin, you can do the tour here, it is included on the Dublin pass, it is a good tour and very interesting. There is another on in Middleton. This one is either included on a contiki or an optional. This one also has more to see then the one in Dublin, but just as good. Do both if you want.

Q: What are some things to do in Dublin at night?

A: The Irish are famous for the drinking and singing, so head to a bar that has live music, have a few pints and listen to some great live music. That is all you need to do. There are also pub crawls of all types and just wandering around temple bar is an experience.

Q: In cork, Ireland, what are some of the things that contiki does at night?

A: There are plenty of bars in this city, hang out and enjoy them, or for something different head to a bowling alley, play a few games, hang out and enjoy yourself. Or just wander around the city at night.

Q: How can you get from Dublin to London with out flying?

A: You can head to the ferry terminal, catch the ferry to wales and then train to London, or bus to London, either way you have to catch a ferry.

Q: What is the weather like in Dublin?

A: Generally it is sunny but it can change to rainy very fast. It is a more sunnier version of london.

Q: In Dublin, where can i pick up the Dublin pass?

A: You can pick up one at the airport or at the tourist information center in the city.

Q: How long is it from Dublin to Belfast?

A: It takes about 3hrs by coach depending on traffic.

Q: In Derry, Ireland, what does contiki do for dinner?

A: After the walking tour of the city, you are free to find your own. Your tour manager makes recommendations, usually some of the pubs.

Q: In Galway, how much free time does contiki give you on arrival into the city?

A: You have a number of hours free time – about 3hrs. This enough to explore the city centre, have lunch, go shopping and see the sites.

Q: In Galway, how long does it take to walk from the city centre to the contiki hotel?

A: It is about a 20 – 30 minute walk, along a main road, but it is an easy walk.

Q: In Cork, how far from the city centre is the contiki hotel?

A: The hotel is located on the edge of the main part of the city, beside the river. That being said it is only a 5 minute walk to get into the center of town.

Q: In Cork, what is there to see?

A: There is the English market, various parks and gardens, churches and there is a museum or two. It is also fun to walk the streets and explore.

Q: In Ireland, are there different beers and ciders throughout the country.

A: Ireland has a number of different beers and ciders that you can try from guinness, killkenny to bulmers cider. Try many, have fun while doing it.

Q: On a contiki Ireland tour, how much free time do you have on the return to Dublin?

A: You have from about 11am free, however you still need to check into the hotel and there are optionals at dinner time. So getting back to the hotel by 4pm is a good idea.