Q: Can I put this trip together on my own?

A: No. Other tour operators cannot offer this trip either with all the exclusives that Jane Austen Fan Trips puts into its programs and therefore neither can any individual. We have many exclusive events and tours planned for you. It is impossible to duplicate our experience. Individuals would not have access to these activities and professionals if traveling on their own.

You would also be paying full retail rates at hotels and attractions. Jane Austen Fan Trips adds value to your vacation as a wholesaler by negotiating group rates for all of its programs, and therefore for all of its customers!

In addition to the exclusive activities and wholesale pricing, much of the fun for a fan on a Jane Austen Fan Trip is the opportunity to spend days in another country with a group of like-minded individuals. Where else can you wear a Regency costume in public and have others doing the same? Adults and families alike enjoy the camaraderie of fellow travelers, often making lifelong friends. These are just some of the many opportunities made possible by traveling with a group and with Jane Austen Fan Trips.

Q: Is this trip a good value?

A: Traveling to the UK has not been this exciting in years - nor has it been this costly. Due to the increasingly weak US dollar compared with the British Pound, prices have increased for 2008. Jane Austen Fan Trips has worked hard to ensure that your trip to the UK remains an excellent value despite this challenge. We are proud to be able to bring Jane Austen fans unparalleled experiences at affordable rates. We continually strive to maintain a high level of service, as well as exciting activities, private parties and a high quality of hotels at a competitive price. No where else can you find trips to Britain of such high quality at Jane Austen Fan Trips prices.

Q: What are the specific hotels for each package?

A: Listed below are the hotels for the Jane Austen Fan Trip:

•4 Star – Ashdown Park Hotel

•4 Star – Mercure Wessex Hotel

•4 Star – Mercure Francis Hotel

Q: How will our group travel between destinations internally?

A: For the most part you will travel between destinations via private motor coach. Fortunately, none of our destinations are too far apart, eliminating long days on the road. However, we still have you traveling in comfortable, clean, modern coaches the entire way!

Q: What is the pace of the tour?

A: In true Regency fashion, we want you to be able to take the time to enjoy each of your destinations. However, there are so many Jane Austen sites to see and we will try to fit in as many as possible. This tour has a moderate pace, including some free mornings or evenings as well as days where our schedules are fairly full.

Q: Will the schedule change from what is published on this site?

A: Due to unforeseen circumstances sometimes schedules need to be adjusted and changed. We do our best to let you know of these changes either prior to your trip or, for very last minute changes, through your guide. In the arena of group travel, especially during high season in the UK, sometimes things happen and we ask our guests to be flexible when the need arises.

Q: What airport will we fly into and out of?

A: ARRIVAL: All travelers must fly into the Gatwick Airport or arrange to meet the tour at the Gatwick Airport in London. Your tour guide will be waiting for you there and you will depart by coach to your first destination.

DEPARTURE: From Bath, your final destination, you will be taken by coach to the Bristol International Airport where you can catch a flight home.

Q: I am only 15 and my parents can't come on the trip - is there a chaperone available?

A: We currently do not have a chaperone assigned. Should there be enough interest, we will try to locate a chaperone. There would be an additional cost per trip to pay for the chaperone's expenses. We suggest you make a reservation quickly. If you make a reservation and we are unable to find a chaperone, your money will be refunded.

Q: I am traveling by myself and don't want to have to pay the single supplement - what are my options?

A: To avoid the single supplement you will just need to inform us of your roommate choice so that we can adjust your invoice accordingly. We can assist with this process if necessary.

Q: I want to fly in earlier and have some free time prior to the trip - how will I meet the group?

A: We are glad that you can extend your stay abroad! We are not able to collect people at different locations so if you do come in early, please meet the group at the Gatwick Airport as noted on the itinerary.

Q: Can I attend only part of the tour?

A: No changes in prices can be made if you only attend part of the tour, so it really is not cost effective to miss any portion of the tour.

Q: When will I get my final documents for the trip?

A: We will put together a package for each participant/family that will include all of the necessary travel documents (finalized itinerary with meeting point, trip roster, etc.) and mail it approximately 21-30 days prior to departure.

Q: I do not live in the U.S. Can I pay in my country's currency?

A: Yes! We are happy to take payments in another currency, particularly British Pounds and euros. Please contact us to discuss the price of your preferred package in your home currency.

Q: I live in the UK. Can I go on a Jane Austen Fan Trip tour?

A: Yes! Fans from every country are welcome. For those who live in the UK and are not flying in, we will set a meeting place (probably our hotel) for you to join the group. If you are flying in, then the trip documents will tell you how to meet your group.

Q: Are tips included?

A: Beyond Boundaries Travel has taken care of certain tips and gratuities for all included meals and activities such as tips for porters, housekeepers, coach drivers, local experts and dining room staff for included meals.

Gratuities for your guides are not included. If you feel that your guides have provided excellent service, we suggest the following discretionary gratuity: Per Guest/Per Guide/Per Day - $5-$8 USD. For example: For an eight day adventure, the guide gratuity per guest would be $40-$64 USD.

Q: What types of meals are included?

A: Typically, breakfast is served each morning in a buffet style and offers a variety of dishes. Dinners and lunches usually include a variety of choices and always have a vegetarian option but please order in advance to ensure we have enough vegetarian meals for all guests. Some included meals may offer a limited choice menu. Given the nature of group travel, we regret that ala carte menu choices may not always be available. Children-friendly choices are available at all meals. Menu items are subject to change due to the availability and seasonality of foods. Beyond Boundaries Travel makes every attempt to accommodate dietary restrictions. Please be sure to note these restrictions on the reservation or by contacting the BBT office as soon as possible.

Q: What types of drinks are included with meals?

A: Typically water, tea and coffee are included with your meals that are included on the trip. Breakfast usually has a variety of juices as well. Milk and soda are not typically included. Alcoholic beverages are typically not included with your scheduled meals. However, you are free to purchase them at your own expense.

Q: How long does it take to get a passport, and where do I go to get one?

A: You can find all of the necessary information by going to the U.S. Department of State's web site at http://travel.state.gov/passport/. Please be sure to allow sufficient time to have your application processed if you are applying for a new passport or renewing an expired passport.

Q: Do I need a visa, or other entry documents, to travel to the UK?

A: As an American citizen traveling to the UK, you need a valid passport (with 1-2 blank pages remaining), a round-trip ticket and spending money! A visa is not required. If you are a non-American citizen, you should visit the UK's visa web site at http://www.ukvisas.gov.uk to find out whether or not you need a visa or entry clearance.

Guests who are 17 years of age or younger may be required to show additional documents when traveling with a single parent or grandparent.

Q: Do I need to get any shots before flying to the UK?

A: No!

Q: Can I book my airfare through Beyond Boundaries Travel?

A: Yes! We have wholesale contracts with most major airlines and can offer lower prices than what you may find through the internet booking sites such as Orbitz or Travelocity. Please be advised that in some cases the best rates are on these internet sites. We are happy to help you navigate the confusing options for air travel but may charge a small fee for this service.

Q: What are the benefits of booking my air with Beyond Boundaries Travel?

A: If you book your air with Beyond Boundaries and something goes wrong (your bags are lost for instance), we will be able to help you track it down. If you book your air through an outside source you are responsible for your own baggage, and we will not be able to assist you in any way involving your airline/carrier.

Q: What time should I book my flight to arrive?

A: Please refer to each program itinerary for arrival time suggestions. If your flight arrives after the scheduled time, you will be responsible for getting yourself to the first location and meeting your group at the appropriate hotel. Everyone will be responsible for sending us their flight information 60 days prior to departure or we will not be able to guarantee courtesy transfers.

Q: Can Beyond Boundaries Travel book my hotel room and other arrangements if I extend my stay?

A: Yes! Beyond Boundaries Travel is a wholesaler of travel products in Britain in addition to our specialized themed trips. We can provide quotes for hotels and other travel products throughout the country. Please call Beyond Boundaries Travel at 1-800-487-1136 for more information.

Q: How much spending money should I bring?

A: There are some meals included as noted on each itinerary, so you will want to look those over and evaluate how much you will need for additional food/snacks. You will also want to think about how many souvenirs or other items you may want to purchase while on the trip. Evaluate your itinerary choice and think about things you may want to do in your free time (shopping, opera/theatre, museums not on the itinerary).

Q: Do I need to bring euros?

A: No. Great Britain is one of several members of the European Union that did not convert to euros. They still use Great Britain Pounds (GBP). You will only need euros if you choose to venture into other parts of Europe.

Q: How much money should I convert before arrival to the UK?

A: While traveling abroad it is best not to carry too much cash. You will want to have some money readily available upon arrival for snacks or other small things, so exchange a few dollars at the airport for British Pounds. During the trip you may want to purchase larger items with a credit card or travelers checks. Most major credit cards are accepted everywhere. If you do not frequently travel internationally, we highly recommended that you call your credit card provider and bank prior to departure and advise them that you will be in the UK. Some companies may automatically reject overseas charges if they do not fit what they have determined is your normal spending patterns.

Q: What type of clothing should I bring?

A: Britain does get quite a bit of rain throughout the year, so you'll want to bring some waterproof jackets/clothing. September is a bit cooler so sweaters and warmer clothing is advised.

Casual, comfortable clothing is needed for every day on your trip. Basildon is a nicer venue, so bring nice clothing for our dinner there. Also, remember the Grand Ball the final day! Guests won’t be permitted UNLESS they are in Regency attire.
If you don't own your own Regency Clothing, be sure to visit Farthingales Costumes in Bath which rents Regency attire. Special arrangements have been made for a discount on your costume, be sure to mention Beyond Boundaries Travel when reserving your costume.

Q: How much luggage is allowed?

A: We recommend you contact your airline to the UK to find out their luggage weight restrictions for the most accurate information. Weight restrictions in the UK can be quite strict; Beyond Boundaries Travel recommends one (1) suitcase of no more than 44 pounds and one (1) carry-on bag. While we realize that this limit is low for overseas travelers, these restrictions are determined by the airlines and are common throughout Europe. If you choose to exceed that recommendation you are susceptible to fines incurred for overweight luggage as well as fines for exceeding the number of bags allowed. Beyond Boundaries Travel is not responsible for excess baggage fees.