Currency: Canadian dollar ($CAD) Note: Halifax International Airport does not offer currency exchange (so use your Canadian dollars before you leave the country).

Weather: Late summer weather ranges between 65 - 90 degrees Fahrenheit; could be warm, humid, and stormy (hard to resist), bring a raincoat.

Language: English

Transportation: We will have a coach service providing comfortable bus transportation while in the Maritimes. We have one full day exploring the delights of Halifax, staying on the waterfront, however a block or two off the waterfront is all uphill.

Tipping: Nova Scotia and PEI have a 15% sales tax rate. Tipping in Canada is much the same as it is in the U.S. such as for waitstaff, hairdressers, cab drivers, hotel employees, and others, you are expected to give 15-20% in addition to the stated cost. Like in the US, most of the service providers receive a relatively low base pay (minimum wage is about CA$10/hour in Canada) and rely on tips to bring their earnings to a decent rate.

Adapter: None needed for US travelers. For those traveling from other regions, you will use a type A or B depending on your device needs.

Visa requirements: https://www.cic.gc.ca/english/visit/visas.asp

Country calling code: 1

Currency: Danish krone (kr or DKK) and Faroese króna (kr or FOK). Danish currency is accepted on the Faroese Islands.

Weather: Our trips to this part of the world are usually during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall). Weather can range from temperate to very cold. Bring thermal layers, gloves, hats and scarves for use as needed. A waterproof jacket and shoes/boots are essential.

Language: Danish, Faroese. Most everyone speaks English; many residents speak it fluently.

Transportation: In Copenhagen, our groups make use of the public train system. It’s inexpensive, clean and very convenient for getting around the city. On the Faroe Islands, we generally travel by mini coach. Be aware that we also travel by ferry (between islands) and into tunnels (under/through mountains). If you have concerns due to seasickness, motion-sickness or claustrophobia, please consult with our staff prior to registering for this trip.

Tipping: European service workers (including waitstaff, drivers and housekeeping staff) receive a standard (and decent) living wage. If you would like to express appreciation for a very nice meal and/or good service, 5-10% of the total bill or the equivalent of $1-2/day is appropriate. For large parties, gratuity at that rate is often included in the bill.

Adapter: Type C European adapter (two round prongs).

Visa requirements: https://usa.um.dk/en/travel-and-residence/practical-information/visa

Country calling code: Denmark 45, Faroe Islands 298

Currency: Euro (€ or EUR)

Weather: Winters in Estonia are very similar to those of the Northeastern US: cold ranging from 23 degrees Fahrenheit to -5 degrees Fahrenheit as a rule. You can expect some snowy days and most likely snowy roads and sidewalks as well.

Language: The official language of Estonia is Estonian, a Uralic language related to Finnish. Hotel employees speak good English as a rule. While you can generally find English speakers in Estonia , it is not always fluent.

Transportation: Reliable and safe taxis are generally available in the cities we will be visiting. However, stick to the well-marked official taxis, and ask for the rate to your destination before getting into the car. The rate should be around €12 from the airport to the center of town, for example.

Tipping:

• Meals: tipping in restaurants and cafés is discretionary. If you are satisfied with the service, it is common to leave a 10% tip. However, if you had an extraordinary experience, feel free to tip more. In some establishments, you might find a service charge included in the bill, typically around 10%. In this case, you are not obliged to tip extra, but if you wish to express your appreciation, you can still leave a small additional tip.

• Transportation: Tipping taxi drivers in Estonia is not mandatory, but it is a kind gesture. You can round up the fare to the nearest euro or leave a tip of around 10% for a smooth and pleasant ride.

• Hotel staff: In hotels, tipping is not expected but always appreciated. You can tip the bellboy €1-2/bag, and housekeeping staff can be tipped around €1-2/day. If a concierge provides exceptional service, such as securing last-minute reservations or providing helpful recommendations, a tip of €5-10 would be a lovely gesture.

Adapter: Types C & F

Visa requirements (if any): On October 12, 2025 Estonia along with 29 Schengen countries, will roll out the EES (Entry/Exit System) as a precursor to ETIAS in 2026. With EES, your biometric data (face recognition/fingerprint) will be recorded and will result in additional time through passport control. While no pre-application is required for EES, there may be mobile applications made available to help speed the process. You can track that progress here: https://travel-europe.europa.eu/en/ees/faq##

Country calling code: 372

Currency: Euro (€ or EUR)

Weather: We typically visit Greece in late spring and early summer. It is a warm, arid climate. Temperatures on the Greek mainland can get very hot. It is generally cooler on our boat, the Aegeotissa, and out among the islands. Typical Fahrenheit temperature is in the 80s with occasional spikes into the 90s, 70s at night.

Language: Greek. Most people working in tourism speak English well, but we will definitely interact with locals who do not speak much English at all. Half of the boat crew have excellent English and they are very helpful and knowledgeable. We will have various local guides who are fluent in English, and your Fiber Ambassador, Heather, knows enough Greek to get us from guide to guide and loves to get everyone speaking the basics by the end of the trip!

Transportation: There is a Metro system from the airport to the center of Athens, but it can be confusing to get onto the correct line, so we recommend jumping in the taxi queue outside the airport. Standard taxi fare to Athens city center is posted at the queue, and you can feel free to take a photo of the sign if you are concerned. The current standard rate is €40. However, our hotel is usually in the old Plaka district, and taxis often charge an additional €10 for navigating the narrow streets.

Group transport during the trip will be provided in a variety of private coaches and minicoaches - whatever is available on any given island we are visiting.

Our boat in Greece is The Aegeotissa - a 100 ft motorsailer which looks like a pirate ship! On board you will need to be able to maneuver up and down ship ladders (very steep stairs) with railings and over a gangplank with a rope “railing”. Our cabin electricity is shut off at 10 pm and CPAP or other medical devices cannot be guaranteed to have access to electricity overnight. Most cabins are below deck with a couple located on the upper deck. There are no cabins on the main deck. All cabins are en suite with a shower space. The good news is that the crew is very helpful with getting your luggage onboard and assisting you across the gangplank if you are nervous or unsteady the first time, but you should be confident in your ability to get on and off the ship on your own before joining the trip. Bathroom and beach towels are provided.

Tipping: 5-10% is standard in restaurants, a single Euro (€) for porters, and €3-5 for a special guide during day trips. Tipping is not customary for bartenders or taxi drivers. It’s easy enough to say, “Keep the change” and won’t be taken as an insult. Please prepare to tip €25-50/person for our week’s care, cooking and service by the five crew members of the Aegeotissa - a total of €125-250/traveler.

Adapter: Type C European adapter (two round prongs). On the boat, your cabin will have a USB charging port to charge your phone.

Other notes:

• We recommend you have Dramamine and/or ginger chews (a type of candy) with you as we will be on or in the water most days.

• Your bathing suit is essential gear on this trip!

• Sunscreen, a hat and a water bottle are a MUST.

• We recommend long pants, closed shoes and walking sticks for wanders on the islands. Paths can be rocky, often overgrown.

• A small cotton kerchief or a larger, rayon scarf is also a good idea. Soaked with water and placed around your neck or shoulders, it will keep you cool and protected from the sun.

• When entering churches or monasteries, it is courteous to wear modest clothing. Shorts and tank tops are considered too revealing. Most locations will have long black skirts available to put on over your shorts as a temporary measure. Be prepared by tucking a modest shirt, skirt, sarong and/or wrap into your backpack each day.

• If you’re shopping for souvenirs or local, handmade goods, be aware that a great deal of what you see is made in China. Ask questions, beware of products offered at a cheap price, and look for labeling that states “Made in Greece”.

• In the Greek Islands, as on board the Aegeotissa, you will often see a sign in the loo instructing you not to throw toilet paper into the toilet. A waste bin will be provided and emptied daily on the boat. This is very important to get used to on the boat in particular, and in arid climates in general, as they do not have the sewage systems we are used to in the US.

Visa requirements: On October 12, 2025 Greece along with 29 Schengen countries, will roll out the EES (Entry/Exit System) as a precursor to ETIAS in 2026. With EES, your biometric data (face recognition/fingerprint) will be recorded and will result in additional time through passport control. While no pre-application is required for EES, there may be mobile applications made available to help speed the process. You can track that progress here: https://travel-europe.europa.eu/en/ees/faq##

Country calling code: 30

Currency: Icelandic króna (kr ISK)

Weather: Despite its name, Iceland is not much colder (or icier) than the Pacific Northwest of the US. However, you do want to be prepared for bracing temperatures and lots of wind, especially if the itinerary includes a visit into a glacier or time at beaches and the coastline. Warm layers, gloves, a hat and possibly a scarf are recommended. A waterproof outer layer is important. You can get away with not bringing waterproof shoes as long as you have a second pair with you. A bathing suit is essential for soaking in Iceland's fantastic geothermal pools! Icelanders take the cleanliness of their pools very seriously. They do not treat the water with chemicals and all visitors are expected to shower thoroughly prior to soaking. Changing rooms and showers are always available onsite at spas and thermal soaking pools. The high mineral content at the Blue Lagoon, in particular, can wreak havoc with your hair. If you are at all concerned, bring a bathing cap or keep your hair up and away from the water while soaking. Bring a resealable plastic bag along for carrying a wet bathing suit.

Language: Icelandic. Icelanders speak excellent English. Town, food, and street names can be difficult for travelers to pronounce as Icelandic words are often quite long. When in doubt, have a printed copy of whatever you are hoping to locate and simply point. Keep a currency conversion app (ISK to USD) on your phone or a written reminder of equivalencies in your wallet. Prices for everything – food, lodging, gifts, alcohol, transportation – are higher than in the US.

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Transportation: During the tour, our group will have our own private mini coach. We may travel through one or two long, underground tunnels. If you are concerned due to claustrophobia, please discuss the particulars with staff prior to registering for the tour. Note that the international airport for Iceland is located about an hour’s drive from Reykjavik. Transportation by bus to and from the capital is readily available and does not need to be arranged more than 24 hours ahead of time. Consider the distance when making hotel reservations prior to or after your tour. Hotels are also available in the small town right next to Keflavik International Airport. Taxis are readily available for transportation to and from the airport but tend to be much more expensive than the bus.

Tipping: Tipping is not customary in Iceland. Everyone, including restaurant waitstaff, is paid a living wage.

Visa requirements (if any): On October 12, 2025 Iceland along with 29 other Schengen countries, will roll out the EES (Entry/Exit System) as a precursor to ETIAS in 2026. With EES, your biometric data (face recognition/fingerprint) will be recorded and will result in additional time through passport control. While no pre-application is required for EES, there may be mobile applications made available to help speed the process. You can track that progress here: https://travel-europe.europa.eu/en/ees/faq##

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Adapter: Type C European adapter (two round prongs).

Country calling code: 354

Currency: Indian Rupee (₹INR) Because the Rupee is non-convertible it cannot be taken out of India, so you cannot get currency before you travel. You can change money at the airport, in banks and large hotels, and available ATMs. Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted (keep in mind that most card providers have fees for transactions abroad).

Weather: The weather in India varies dramatically. While the southern tip of India is being lashed by tropical monsoon rain, the north will be blanketed in thick snow. Traveling in October in and around Jaipur we will be in the dry season and can expect to experience temperatures around 95 degrees F during the day, cooling to 70 degrees F when the sun sets.

Language: Hindi and English (however, there are 21 other languages which are recognized by the Indian Constitution, with 1500+ languages spoken across the country). Due to British colonial influence, English is spoken widely in the context of education, government and business.

Transportation: Transportation will be by minibus coach depending on the size of the group.

Tipping: Tips in India are typically referred to as baksheesh and can expect to be asked for baksheesh often but may refuse anytime. Tips in India are often much smaller (5-10%) than what is expected in the United States and other countries where employees depend on customer gratuity as an important part of their salaries. For bag porterage 20-50 rupees per bag would be appropriate.

Adapter: Type C, Type D, Type M for United States travelers, most Europeans do not need a travel adapter when visiting India as the plugs will work with the outlet types and India uses the same voltage as in Europe.

Visa requirements: A valid Visa is mandatory for all visitors and must be obtained prior to arrival. This information will be included in your registration confirmation email.

Country calling code: 91

​Currency: Euro (€ EUR)

Weather: The weather is mild but wet. Be sure to bring a waterproof outer layer and good shoes for walking on wet, slippery or muddy surfaces. Your shoes should be waterproof as well, unless you have a second pair for wearing intermittently. Don’t bother with an umbrella. It’s usually too windy to make use of one.

Language: English. Be prepared to wade your way through varying degrees of a lovely Irish brogue.

Transportation: During the tour, our group will have our own private mini coach. Bus, train and taxi service are excellent and easily accessible in all of the major cities of Ireland. Beyond the metropolitan areas, service is less consistent. If you plan to travel in Ireland prior to or after your tour, consider renting a car. Keep in mind that you’ll be driving on the opposite side of the road and that most roads are significantly narrower than those in North America. Your drive times will be longer than those given by Google Maps.

Tipping: European service workers (including waitstaff, drivers and housekeeping staff) receive a standard (and decent) living wage. If you would like to express appreciation for a very nice meal and/or good service, 5-10% of the total bill or the equivalent of $1-2/day is appropriate. For large parties, gratuity at that rate is often included in the bill.

Adapter: Type G UK adapter. We know, we know… Ireland is part of the European Union now. However, its electrical system is a holdover from the days when Ireland was part of the British Empire. The Irish drive on the opposite side of the road for the same reason.

Other ​notes: We strongly encourage our travelers venture out to the local pubs whenever possible. Gathering in the evenings to check out the craic, have a pint and enjoy a traditional music session are time-honored activities in Ireland. It's a beautiful way to round out the day. Venture up to the bar and strike up a conversation with anyone! Music generally starts around 9 pm. Even those who profess themselves "not a night owl" should make an effort to spend at least one evening out. NOT to be missed.

Country calling code: 353

Currency: Euro (€ or EUR)

Weather: Continental climate

Language: Italian

Transportation: Uber often more expensive than regular taxis, which are readily available.

Tipping: 5-15% for both dining and taxis is appreciated, but not required. In general tips are not expected, if you experience wonderful service and feel so inclined you could tip or just round up your total.

Adapter: Type F or L, and possibly E.

Visa requirements: On October 12, 2025 Italy along with 29 Schengen countries, will roll out the EES (Entry/Exit System) as a precursor to ETIAS in 2026. With EES, your biometric data (face recognition/fingerprint) will be recorded and will result in additional time through passport control. While no pre-application is required for EES, there may be mobile applications made available to help speed the process. You can track that progress here: https://travel-europe.europa.eu/en/ees/faq##

Country calling code: 39

PASSPORT REQUIRED: You cannot enter the country through airports using a passport book/card.

Currency: Mexican Peso ($MXN)

Weather: Oaxaca is the second most southerly state in Mexico; it sits at 5,102’ elevation offering a surprisingly milder temperature than one thinks of for Mexico. Whether you visit in January or July, expect a lovely 80 degrees Fahrenheit during the day with a jacket needed for evening time. Rain is possible while visiting so bring a rain jacket.

Language: Spanish. We have an interpreter joining the group for certain activities and our Fiber Ambassador is bilingual. While in the city of Oaxaca, we’ll find some bilingual speakers in the under-40 crowd. In the villages most everyone speaks only Spanish. Keep a currency conversion app (Pesos to USD) on your phone or a written reminder of equivalencies in your wallet. Prices for everything – food, lodging, gifts, alcohol, transportation – will be lower than in the US.

Transportation: Our hotel for the week in Oaxaca is close to many of our planned activities; you’ll need solid walking shoes since many city streets have cobblestone paving. These shoes will also serve well for when we visit archeological sites. The days we venture out of the city our group will have the use of a private mini coach.

Tipping:

Meals: generally a 10-15% tip

Interpreter: $10 (170 pesos)/day (for the days we have one)

Hotel cleaning: 20 or 30 pesos is good for daily housekeeping

Adapter: Mexico uses the same type of electrical outlets as the United States, but the voltage is different (127 vs 120 in the US). Your electrical appliances will work in Mexico, but they may not work as well as they do at home. If you choose to bring a travel adapter common outlet in Mexico is the A/B type.

Country calling code: 52

Currency: Nepali Rupee (रुNPR)

Weather: In October we can expect to see Fahrenheit temperatures ranging from high 50s to the upper 80s.

Language: Nepali, however English is widely spoken and understood in various parts of the country. We will visit some areas where little English is spoken.

Transportation: When we travel in Nepal we will have an executive van or a mini coach depending on the size of the group as well as some domestic flights to avoid long journeys on rough roads.

Tipping: Tipping in Restaurants is generally 5-10%, but may already be added to your bill as a service charge. Hotel staff is not generally tipped, but if you feel like tipping your porter, a tip of 30-50 NPR (30-70 US cents) per bag is appropriate.

Adapter: Type C, Type D, Type M for United States travelers, most Europeans do not need a travel adapter when visiting Nepal as the plugs will work with the outlet types and Nepal uses the same voltage as in Europe.

Visa requirements: A visa is required, but can be pre registered for and then obtained on arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu. A valid passport and one passport-size photo with a light background is required. https://nepaliport.immigration.gov.np/on-arrival/IO01

Country calling code: 977

Currency: Norwegian Krone (NOK kr)

Weather: Expect pleasant Fahrenheit temperatures in the 60s and 70s during our visits in June, with evening temperatures dropping into the 50s.

Language: Norwegian. Most people speak English as well.

Transportation: Group transport during the tour is provided by a mix of private mini coach, train and ferry. Transportation from the airport to our city center hotel in Bergen is available via taxi, bus or light rail. Here is a link to Visit Bergen for more information. Flybus tickets can be purchased online at a discount here. Both the City Light Rail and the Flybussen will drop off within 550 meters (1/3 mile) of our hotels.

Tipping: Tipping is not expected in Norway.

Adapter: Type F.

Visa requirements: On October 12, 2025 Norway along with 29 Schengen countries, will roll out the EES (Entry/Exit System) as a precursor to ETIAS in 2026. With EES, your biometric data (face recognition/fingerprint) will be recorded and will result in additional time through passport control. While no pre-application is required for EES, there may be mobile applications made available to help speed the process. You can track that progress here: https://travel-europe.europa.eu/en/ees/faq##

Country calling code: 47

Currency: Euro (€ or EUR)

Weather: Weather in the Netherlands is moderate Northern European maritime climate with winter temperatures in the mid thirties Fahrenheit. That said, as The Netherlands is a flat land mass you can expect windy weather in the winter months along with rain and very occasional snow fall. Bring clothing you can layer, with a hooded raincoat/windbreaker being an essential packing item. Your warm beanies and gloves are a good idea as well.

Language: Dutch. English is widely spoken, especially in Amsterdam and less so on Texel.

Transportation: We will be using the excellent Dutch Public transportation system while in Amsterdam and visiting the surrounding cities . The trains and buses are punctual, clean and easy to use. On Texel, we will be using a private coach company to get us to our destinations on island. Should you choose, there are several ride-sharing and car-sharing services operate in the Netherlands, including Uber, Bolt,

Tipping: Tipping is not customary or expected in the Netherlands, as service industry staff are paid minimum wage and do not rely on tips. While not obligatory, tipping is generally appreciated, especially for exceptional service. It's common to round up your bill in bars and cafes, or tip 5-10% in sit-down restaurants.

Adapter: You'll need an adapter to convert the US plug to either Type C or Type F. These plugs have two round pins, and Type F plugs also have two earth clips on the side. The standard voltage in the Netherlands is 230V at 50Hz.

Visa requirements (if any): On October 12, 2025 the Netherlands along with 29 Schengen countries, will roll out the EES (Entry/Exit System) as a precursor to ETIAS in 2026. With EES, your biometric data (face recognition/fingerprint) will be recorded and will result in additional time through passport control. While no pre-application is required for EES, there may be mobile applications made available to help speed the process. You can track that progress here: https://travel-europe.europa.eu/en/ees/faq##

Country calling code: +31

Currency: New Zealand Dollar ($NZD)

Weather: We will be visiting in the autumn and the weather is usually sunny and pleasant. Early April in the North Island can have temperatures in the mid-seventies Fahrenheit, but we’ll be encountering sweater weather (and maybe even hats and gloves) in the South Island as we head into the month of May. Bring a weatherproof jacket for some (normally) occasional rain.

Language: While New Zealand is working towards bilingualism with Maori, English is the common language used.

Transportation: Taxis are readily available in New Zealand and can be hailed or ordered in advance. They accept cash and credit cards. There are also rideshare companies such as Uber and Ola. Auckland Airport is about 30-45 minutes from the Central Business District (CBD). Skybus costs $18NZ from Auckland Airport to CBD, Super Shuttles from $35NZ/person, and taxis are available from $38NZ - $60NZ depending on passenger numbers. From Queenstown Airport, you can take a bus to the center of town. This will cost $10NZ and take around 20 minutes. You can also take a taxi which will cost $45NZ and take 15 minutes.

Tipping: Tipping is not expected generally, but rather appreciated if you think the job has been done well. No need to feel you have to tip everyone, just those who have gone above and beyond is a good rule of thumb.

Adapter: Type I. The standard voltage is 230 V at a frequency of 50 Hz. Do not plug your US hairdryer into a NZ socket with just an adaptor. Motorized appliances require a converter as well as an adapter. To be sure, check the label on your devices. Some devices never need a converter. If the label states 'INPUT: 100-240V, 50/60 Hz' the device can be used in every country in the world. This is common for devices with chargers like tablets/laptops, photo cameras, cell phones, toothbrushes, etc. For these devices you will only need a power plug adapter.

Country calling code: 64

Currency: Euro (€ or EUR)

Weather: Barcelona in November can be quite chilly, even though it hasn’t been the case this past Fall. The average temperatures these days are 53-64 degrees Fahrenheit. Layers would be the best choice, with a light coat as the outer layer.

Language: Even though Catalan is the unique language of the region, everybody is bilingual and speaks Spanish. Having said that, most people speak English but not very fluently.

Transportation: Public transportation is very good in Barcelona. Buses and Metro can take you pretty much anywhere in the city. If you choose to take a cab, look for yellow and black cars, these and these alone are official Barcelona taxis. Uber is not big in Barcelona, but you can use Cabify or Bolt if you download the apps.

Tipping: It is not customary to tip in Barcelona, or Spain in general for that matter. It is really up to you to leave one if you are satisfied with the service.

Adapter: Types C & F

Visa requirements (if any): On October 12, 2025 Spain along with 26 Schengen countries, will roll out the EES (Entry/Exit System) as a precursor to ETIAS in 2026. With EES, your biometric data (face recognition/fingerprint) will be recorded and will result in additional time through passport control. While no pre-application is required for EES, there may be mobile applications made available to help speed the process. You can track that progress here: https://travel-europe.europa.eu/en/ees/faq##

Country calling code: 34

Currency: British pound (£GBP)

Weather: Be prepared for changeable weather, especially rain. Layers from tank tops to wool sweaters are appropriate at all times of the year. Good waterproof gear is essential. Plan for cooler, windier weather in the north (i.e. Scotland and the north of England) but know that damp conditions throughout the UK mean that any cool weather will feel cold.

Language: Yes, English is the language of the land. However, you'll encounter a wide variety of accents. Don't be surprised if you have trouble understanding what is said. Simply ask for a repeat – and a slower one at that!

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Transportation: Public transportation in the UK is generally stellar. You can get around the cities via bus, taxi, Uber/Lyft and often by subway or above-ground trolley or tram. We recommend walking whenever possible. Travel between cities is easy via rail or bus. If you are adding time to your trip on either side of the tour, consider using public transportation rather than renting a car. Driving on the opposite side of the road adds a level of stress to getting around - and it's really not necessary!

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​Tipping: Tipping is now customary in the UK. For the most part, 5-10 % is appropriate at bars, restaurants and for transportation while £1-2/day is appropriate for housekeeping staff.

Adapter: Type G (three prongs).

Visa requirements: Starting January 2025, U.S. citizens will need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to travel to the United Kingdom (England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland). We recommend waiting to apply for your ETA until the final email with the detailed itinerary for your tour is sent, approximately two months before the start of the tour. General information and application can be found at gov.uk/eta.

Country calling code: 44

Currency: US Dollar ($USD)

You can check the current currency conversion from your country to USD here.

Weather: National Weather Service, searchable by location: click here.

Language: American English.

Transportation: Varies by tour and location. Please check your tour information first and then ask your Fiber Ambassador as necessary.

Tipping: Tipping in the United States can be complicated. We've found this article from US News & World Reports to be informative: read here. If ever in doubt, please feel free to ask your Fiber Ambassador.

Adapter: For the USA there are two associated plug types, types A and B. Plug type A is the plug which has two flat parallel pins and plug type B is the plug which has two flat parallel pins and a grounding pin.

Country calling code: 1

Currency: The currency is the Uzbekistani Som (UZS). (UZS).Exchange money at official counters (airport, hotel, banks). Cash is preferred in most places, but cards are accepted in big hotels and some shops.

Weather: Autumn (September to October) weather is pleasant and sunny, with average daytime temperatures ranging from 14°C (57°F) to 30°C (86°F).

Language: The official language is Uzbek. Russian is also widely understood, especially among older generations. English is increasingly spoken in major cities like Samarkand, Bukhara, and Tashkent.

Transportation: We will be traveling between cities on domestic flights, train and private coach bus.

Tipping: Coming soon.

Adapter: Type C or Type F

Visa requirements: https://e-visa.gov.uz

Country calling code: 998

Currency: Swiss Franc (CHF), Euro (€ or EUR)

Weather: It is unlikely we will encounter more than a thin layer of snow, if at all, but the cobbled streets and drop off areas are often very slippery. It is always a good idea to think in terms of layering, it can be cold and snowy, rainy, or unseasonably warm. For wet weather, you will be better served by a good rain jacket with a hood over an umbrella - the better to carry your wool finds! It will be worthwhile spending some time thinking about your footwear - a solid tread with some impermeability will come in handy.

Language: English is generally spoken in all of the countries, but everyone appreciates being asked first rather than launching into English: -In France: Bonjour Madame/Monsieur, parlez-vous anglais? -In this part of Switzerland and in Germany: Entschuldigen bitte, sprechen Sie Englisch?

Transportation: Taxis and rideshare companies such as Uber are readily available in all the countries we will be visiting. Taxis can be hailed or called by phone and accept cash and credit cards. For those coming from Zurich airport and wishing to get into town, the train station at the lower level of the airport is clean, fast and relatively simple. The main train station in Zurich (Zurich HauptBahnhof or HBB) is ten minutes away, a direct stop and costs about CHF 6 one way.

Tipping: Tipping in Switzerland, France and Germany is not etiquette, but rather a gesture of appreciation for a good experience. If you have enjoyed your meal, it is nice to leave between 5% and 10% of your final bill. A 15% tip is very generous and speaks to outstanding service.

Adapter: As long as you are using a non-grounding (2 blade) American plug, and your device draws less than 2½ amps (about 575W), you can use a Type C (2 round pin) Europlug adapter. These adapters should fit in the receptacles in Germany, Austria, France, Italy, and Switzerland. If your US plug has a third, grounding pin, you should use a Type E/F in Germany and France. In Switzerland, you should use a Type J grounding plug.

Visa requirements (if any): On October 12, 2025 France, Germany and Switzerland along with 26 Schengen countries, will roll out the EES (Entry/Exit System) as a precursor to ETIAS in 2026. With EES, your biometric data (face recognition/fingerprint) will be recorded and will result in additional time through passport control. While no pre-application is required for EES, there may be mobile applications made available to help speed the process. You can track that progress here: https://travel-europe.europa.eu/en/ees/faq##

Country calling code: Switzerland 41, France 33, Germany 49