Danube Express Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions About The Danube Express
We understand that you will have many questions about booking a Danube Express Tour. The most frequently asked are below but please do not hesitate to contact us about any further questions you have as we are delighted to help.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions about the Danube Express train.
How Far In Advance Do I Need To Book ?
We strongly advise our clients to book as far in advance as possible to avoid disappointment.
Can You Book International Flights For Us ?
Absolutely! We can book both internal and international flights with our ATOL license. As an appointed operator, we have access to some of the best British Airways deals. We will gladly give you a quote if you let us know the airports that interest you.
Are These Tours Financially Protected ?
Yes! All our trips come with financial protection either through our ATOL – license number 10287 – if the trip includes a flight or insurances which comply with the UK package travel regulations for any trip that does not include a flight. In addition our ABTA membership – number Y1699 – means we must adhere to their strict code of conduct.
What Is The Difference Between The Train Cabin Classes ?
It is crucial to choose the right cabin for your trip. We have created a section that explains the differences between the various types of cabins on the Golden Eagle. For more information, please visit our section on cabin classes.
Are There Porters To Help With My Baggage ?
To help us load our bags onto the train, there are porters at all the stations and hotels.
Are There Daily Briefings ?
Passengers will receive a brochure detailing their route and details about the stops along the way. The tour will provide daily updates to passengers detailing the timings, weather forecasts, and excursion information.
Are Off Train Excursions Included ?
Our local guides will bring to life the history and culture of each place we visit during our rail cruises. To make the most of the time that you have on the train, all our tours include a variety of sightseeing to bring you closer the history, culture, and people of your destinations. It is these little details that create unforgettable memories, according to us.
Are The Off-train Guides Local ?
Local guides are used who speak English.
Do The Guides Speak English ?
English will be the primary language of the tour. Additional costs may apply for French, German, and Spanish-speaking guides. For more information, please contact us. On request, other languages might be available.
Are The Tours Suitable For Clients With Limited Mobility ?
Passengers must be able walk at least one mile per day in order to get the most from our tours. The traveller agrees that he/she is free from any mental or physical condition that could pose a danger to himself/herself, or others on the tour. We reserve the right not to travel to any person who, in the opinion of the Tour Doctor or Tour Manager is not able to do so and who would be unable to complete the tour, or you would cause unacceptable delays for the rest of your group. If this happens, there will be no refunds for any portion of the tour that was not used. For any questions, please contact us.
How Many People Travel On Each Excursion ?
Buses can carry up to 35 people. Tours may be broken up into groups for specific sites/museums, etc.
Can I See The Engine Or Drive It ?
Passenger cannot drive the train. However, it is possible to see the engine when the train is stopped at stations (Golden Eagle only). The Tour Manager will be happy to assist you.
What Are The Booking & Payment Terms ?
On booking a non-refundable deposit of 20% of the total tour price plus any international flights we are booking for you. Full payment is required 90 days before the trip start date.
International flights, beverages not included, visa fees and any services not mentioned are not included in the price.
Golden Eagle Cancellation conditions:Up to 61 days prior to departure: 20 % of total price 60 days or less prior to departure: 100% of total price
Any part of the program that is missed because of late arrival is non-refundable.
How Do I Make A Booking ?
Call our office on +44 020 8191 0620 or email enquiry@theluxurytraintravelcompany.com and speak to one of our consultants. Provisional reservations can be held for up to 7 days without payment. After this time confirmation is required or the cabin will be provisional reservation will be released. Upon receiving confirmation, an invoice will be issued and deposit payment is due upon receipt of this. The deposit payment secures your place on the tour.
Is There A Charge For Using A Credit Card ?
All credit card transactions incur a 2% surcharge. There is no additional charge for debit card transactions or bank transfers.
When Do I Need To Pay The Deposit ?
After we receive your travel confirmation, we will issue you an invoice and a confirmation letter. After receipt of the invoice, the deposit will be due and the trip is not confirmed until that happens. Deposit payments cannot be refunded.
When Is The Final Balance Payment Due ?
The balance must be paid 90 days before departure. The final balance will not be issued. Please make note of the due date. Cancellations made within 90 days after departure will be subject to full payment loss.
When Will I Receive My Travel Documents ?
You will receive an “Update Letter” approximately 1 month before departure. It contains additional information about your tour (weather, packing, etc.). Along with the necessary visa information.
Do You Issue Train Tickets ?
To board our trains, you do not need a train ticket. A train ticket, or travel voucher, will not be given to you.
How Many Tour Managers Are There ?
One senior tour manager and several assistants are onboard depending on the number of passengers.
Is The Doctor On Board At All Times ?
All our tours have a doctor onboard who is available 24 hours a day. The crew has a well-stocked medical kit, but it is up to you to make sure you have all the necessary vaccinations and preventive medicine before you travel with us.
What Happens If Hospital Treatment Is Required ?
We will take you to the hospital, and will make every effort to ensure you get the best possible care. If necessary, we will also contact your family members at home.
How Many Cabins Do The Attendants Look After ?
It depends on the train but there are usually 2 cabin attendants per carriage.
What Dietary Requirements Can You Assist With ?
Many dietary needs can be met. For more information, please contact our office.
Are Beauty Treatments Possible On The Train ?
These items are not available onboard, but they may be available at the hotels.
Is There Set Seating For Meals ?
All passengers have the option to choose where they want to sit during meals. The daily programme will inform passengers about the time for meals.
Is There Internet On The Train ?
Wi-Fi is available to guests while they travel in Europe. Wi-Fi connections are dependent on cell signal. There will be times when there is no or limited coverage. Please do not expect reliable service when moving through remote areas.
Are There Mobile Phone Signals ?
The coverage of mobile phones is not extensive. Low-populated areas may have limited coverage. For more information about coverage, we recommend that you contact your service provider.
What Time Should I Arrive On Day One ?
We recommend that you arrive between 11.00-16.00 to be on time for the Welcome Dinner. Check-in time at most hotels is between 11.00 and 16.00. Please note that early check-in may be subject to hotel availability. Additional charges may apply.
What Time Does The Tour Finish On The Last Day ?
You can leave anytime on the last day. Most hotels’ check-out is 12 noon, however luggage storage is available. Late check-out is dependent on hotel availability (charges may apply).
Can I Do Exercise On The Tour ?
The tour hotels have gyms. The train does not have any exercise facilities. Tours can include moderate walking.
What If I Miss My Plane Or It Is Delayed ?
Clients will be provided with a 24-hour Emergency Call Card along with all their documentation prior to departure. The card contains the phone numbers of representatives from both their country of arrival and our office in the UK. They can contact the person listed on the card if they have any questions.
Is There Baggage Restrictions On The Train ?
The cabin is large enough to store luggage. It is easier to store soft-topped luggage. You cannot store luggage under your bed. Each carriage has a separate luggage storage area. It is recommended that passengers pack their luggage and leave it in this area. This can be done by our cabin attendants.
Is There A Dress Code ?
Casual wear is acceptable on the train and in the morning. We recommend smart casual for evening.
What Kind Of Footwear Is Recommended ?
We recommend that all tour participants bring comfortable walking shoes as there is a lot of walking involved. To avoid slipping, a rubber sole is recommended.
Should I Bring My Own Toiletries ?
Each cabin includes L’Occitane products, such as shampoo, conditioner, and shower cream. You will also find a hairdryer, towels, slippers, and bathrobes in each cabin.
Should I Make Special Care If Taking Medicines ?
Clients must ensure that they have sufficient prescription medication with them when they travel. Clients are strongly advised to seek medical clearance before they travel. Clients who are taking prescription medication must inform the onboard doctor.
Are Vaccinations Required ?
We will continue to search for the most current safety and health recommendations from the World Health Organization (WHO), and international governments. This includes vaccination requirements for Covid-19.
What Age Group Are Passengers ?
Our tours are open to all ages, but most of our travellers are over 55. The average age of our travellers is 64. Young children may not enjoy our tours. We recommend that you check with us before making your booking.
Are There Minimum Passenger Numbers ?
It all depends on each departure. The maximum capacity of our departures is 120. However, some depart with less. Some tours require minimum numbers of passengers. Golden Eagle Luxury Trains can offer a modified service with carriages attached to regular train service trains in order to accommodate smaller groups or provide an alternative tour. If there is no suitable alternative, a full refund will be given.
What Language Are Tours Spoken In ?
English will be the tour language. Additional language guides may be available for selected departures (subject to availability and additional charge). For more information, please contact us.
What Is Included In The Tour Price ?
All accommodation according to the itinerary, both in hotels and onboard the train. All meals, starting with dinner the first day. A generous allowance of wine and beer, soft drinks, tea and coffee with all meals and lunches on the train, all departure and arrival transfers, guided off-train sightseeing excursions, the services of experienced Tour Leaders, all gratuities, and a doctor travelling with the group.
What Is Not Included In The Tour Price ?
Except as part of an itinerary, international and domestic airfares; visa and excess baggage fees; insurance. Personal expenses, such as laundry or drinks in the Bar Lounge Car. Some tours may include an optional activity that must be paid locally.
Do I Need Insurance ?
You must ensure that you are fully covered for medical expenses while on holiday. We will need to know the name and policy number of your insurer, as well as the number for 24-hour emergency assistance. This information will be required at least six weeks before you travel with us.
What Standard Of Hotels Do You Use ?
The price of the tour includes hotel accommodation according to the itinerary. All hotels are at least 5 stars or best in their locale. Upgrades are possible upon request and subject to availability.
Do I Need To Tip ?
All gratuities are included in the tour price and we encourage passengers to refrain from offering gratuities to crew/hoteliers/drivers etc as we will tip on your behalf. Golden Eagle Luxury Trains would appreciate passengers telling us about any exceptional service they received.
Passport & Visa Details
Many visas require that you apply for them well in advance. Visa requirements should be checked promptly as processing times and entry requirements vary by nationality. You should also check whether a single, multiple or double entry visa is required for certain tours.
Can I Use Credit Cards On The Trip ?
ATMs are now readily available in every major city along our route. All hotels we use accept major credit card. It is virtually impossible to exchange traveller’s cheques.
Are Transfers Included ?
All tours include both arrival and departure transfers. We need to know your departure and arrival details in order to arrange your transfer.
What Do I Do When Arriving At The Initial Airport Or Train Station ?
One of our representatives will meet you at the point of departure and will hold a sign indicating that they are Golden Eagle Danube Express. If you are arriving by plane, it will take place after you have cleared customs and collected your luggage. The representative will assist you in getting to the transfer vehicle that will take you to the hotel.
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enquiry@theluxurytraintravelcompany.com
Tel: +44 (0)20 8191 0620
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