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FAQ and Travel Tips

FAQ and Travel Tips

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Travel Protection

Travel can be expensive by itself. Travel Protection helps protect against the unexpected. A primary incentive to get travel protection (insurance) can be for the emergency medical assistance. Without these benefits, you can easily spend over $10,000 out-of-pocket for treatment and transportation expenses. You can also protect yourself from losing non-refundable costs in case you must cancel your trip before departure. Click here to learn more.

Safety

The safety of our pilgrims is our #1 priority.
Click here to learn more about Travel Safety.

Become a Pilgrim

Pilgrimages are different than vacations and tours. It’s important to understand the difference and do what you can to get the most out of your trip. Click here to learn more.

Terms and Conditions

Familiarize yourself with Terms and Conditions of your registration here.

Make an additional payment

Click here to make a secure payment to your account

Important News, Updates, and Alerts

Click here for important news and updates to our services, the travel industry, and more.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much walking is there?
During most of our pilgrimages one can expect to walk up to a few miles daily. For this reason we suggest you prepare yourself by walking daily at least two weeks prior to your trip.

If you have medical conditions that may cause difficulty walking without the assistance of a walker, cane, or other device, we strongly recommend you do not join one of these pilgrimages. Although the average age of our pilgrims is between 60-75 and we plan on not having too difficult of days, there is always a bit of walking, early mornings, and other physically trying activity on a daily basis. Generally, if folks call and ask us if we think they can do it, the response is they better not. We want you to have an incredible and memorable time, but not memorable in the sense of a difficult experience!

To alleviate the physical stresses associated with jet lag, drink plenty of water and try not to go to sleep until after 9 pm local time upon your arrival at your international destination. More information regarding jet lag can be found here.

Cancellation from Trip

Refunds are limited.

Cancellations MUST be confirmed in writing to be considered for a refund.

Initial deposit and travel protection are non-refundable.

If you elected to share a room with a roommate, and you cancel, you are responsible for paying your roommate’s single supplement.

Airline tickets that have been purchased on your behalf are non-refundable regardless of when or why you cancel.

We strongly encourage purchasing Travel Cancellation Protection.

Refund requests for lost airline tickets, travel vouchers, or associated penalties, or for absenteeism, missed sightseeing, meals, or other unused services are not granted by JPPT.  Refer to Cancellation and Refunds, Travel Protection, Unused Services, and Participation clauses of our Terms and Conditions

Security and TSA
TSA regulations are available at https://www.tsa.gov/traveler-information . To get through security easily, have your boarding pass and Passport ready. You will be required to remove your shoes, belts, hats, jackets and watches. Your electronic devices will need to be removed from your bags and screened separately. Airport security across the globe has strict guidelines regarding liquids carried on board the aircraft. Only small travel sized liquid containers in a small quart sized Ziploc type of plastic bag are allowed. Don’t bring anything sharp like razors and knives in your carry-on luggage. If you want to bring with you or purchase and return with liquids such as bottles of refreshments, lotions etc., pack them in your checked bag. Before you buy something in the airport beyond a security checkpoint ask your Tour Escort if you will be connecting in an airport with additional security later on as if so, you will not be able to pass with purchased liquids even if they are in a TSA approved sealed bag. You must review the above TSA site with current information as the above is not inclusive and simply offers highlights and suggestions.
Documents
You will receive your final documents including airline tickets, hotel information, updated itinerary and contact information while abroad, in a welcome packet within the three weeks prior to departure. An extra copy of your hotel information is included to be left with your family or friends so they can contact you directly at the hotel if needed. If you find a problem with your documents, please contact us immediately. Please make two copies of your passport; one to be left with family/friends, and the other to bring with you in addition to the actual passport. Most destinations we visit do not require a Visa for US passport holders. Please visit the US Dept. of State website for further information.
Flights
We use a variety of air carriers. Many offer special airline miles which can be accrued toward award flights and other rewards. If you would like to participate in their programs, upon receipt of your tickets, please contact the airline directly and give them your reward account number. This can be done online if you have an account, by phone or in the airport at the check-in desk for your airline. Keep your boarding pass as proof of travel in case your miles are not credited you can contact the airline upon your return to be credited.
Missed Flights
Should you miss your flight due to your being late, you must work with the airline directly to arrive at your final destination as soon as possible. Once you have a boarding pass confirmed please contact us to advise of the changes so if possible someone can meet you at the airport upon arrival. We will do what we can to help you in this situation, but any costs associated with you missing a flight or experiencing flight delays/cancellations will be borne by you (see Terms and Conditions). The carriers with whom we book airfare bear certain responsibility and duties to you, their customer. Generally, once you have begun your air travel, the carrier has certain responsibilities to bring you to your final destination listed in your flight details. For further information, please consult with the respective airlines with whom you are ticketed.
Meeting Places
Upon arrival at your final airport you will meet your Tour Escort. After retrieving your bags, passing through passport control, customs and security, the group will meet the Tour Escort in the airport. Whenever the group is out and about together the Tour Escort/ Guides will advise you of meeting places in case someone gets lost, or decides to skip a certain segment of the pilgrimage (after consulting with the Escort please!). All of our activities can be considered optional, meaning if you don’t want to or cannot participate in a certain excursion or event you may opt out. We do not always factor significant time for shopping and other recreation because we focus on the pilgrimage, spiritual time together and sightseeing. Most of our itineraries do plan certain times free so please take advantage of them for yourself. Our guides will offer suggestions for lunch for example, and most will follow it but remember you don’t have to and may explore other options as desired. Please remember we travel as a group. If you would like to separate yourself at any time advise your guides and escort so we can tell you when and where to meet. On occasion individuals will detach from the group at certain times and the rest of the group ends up waiting. Please try not to be that person as we have specific times we need to arrive at our hotels, restaurants and chapels. Being late can cause significant problems and we could even miss the attraction or meal altogether because of one or two people.
Safety
The places we visit are considered safe for tourists. If the US Department of State issues a formal travel warning advising against US tourist travel to a destination in our program we will attempt to make necessary changes to best suit the group. Please familiarize yourself with our Terms and Conditions to avoid confusion and anxiety if something of this unlikely situation were to occur. Remember, we are here to help you, and to give you the best possible service. We will
do everything in our ability to maintain our positive relationship with you as our customer. Remember still, as there are places one would not walk alone at night for example in Detroit or Los Angeles, maintain common sense of safety and security and do not travel with large amounts of cash, high value jewelry etc. If there is an area you should stay away from for any particular reason, your guide and escort will make it known to you. Remember the laws, protections and customs we enjoy in the US may not apply or be similar everywhere we go. Stay with the group, listen to your guide and escort, do not bring unnecessary attention to yourself and you will return from your pilgrimage telling your friends and family that every scare and exaggeration we see in our US media is so far from the truth regarding safety and security for tourists. This is especially true in places like Mexico and the Middle East! More great information is available here.
Travel Protection Plans

We strongly suggest you purchase travel protection and have an established relationship with Travel Insured Intl.  Although we recommend Travel Insured Intl. you may choose any reputable travel insurance company you like. When booking with John Paul Pilgrimages and Tours, you must note upon your registration form if you have elected to purchase or declined travel insurance. Insurance inclusions and options are many, such as Emergency Accident & Sickness Medical Expense, Pre-existing Medical Coverage, Trip Cancellation/Interruption protection due to Sickness (includes family), Pre-existing Medical Conditions, Injury (includes family), Death (includes family), Bankruptcy/Default, Medical Evacuation, Medical or Legal Assistance, ID /Credit Recovery Assistance and more. Some groups will have special travel protection options offered with their registration, if so you may review those options as printed with your registration forms. We suggest you familiarize yourself with your Travel Protection Options prior to registration for a pilgrimage with us.

Currency
The places we visit use different than US currencies. Please familiarize yourself with the currencies of the locales in your itinerary. You may get current exchange rates here. Although not required, we recommend you bring with you at least one credit card with no foreign transaction fees. Please consult your financial institution for further information. Generally, though not in all destinations, the exchange rate and conversion fee is best in the city of your destination, outside of tourist centers. Ask your guide and escort for advice regarding the best place to exchange your cash.
Tips
Gratuities are not always included in the tour cost. Depending on the particular tour, an amount of approximately $8-$12 per person per day will be collected Day 1 to cover certain entrance fees, local guide gratuity, driver gratuity, restaurant and hotel staff gratuity etc. What is collected on Day 1 is not kept as a gratuity by your Escort, Organizer or Spiritual Director. We ask that you tip your Escort at your discretion and recommend $5 per day. We have provided envelopes with your final documents for your convenience. Your Organizer and/or Spiritual Director spend a significant amount of time and energy planning your pilgrimage, keeping things in order, and creating a memorable experience for you. You are encouraged to let them know if they were successful in this endeavor, and if you like you may offer them a donation or gratuity.
Hotels
The hotels with whom we contract vary. Most groups are arranged with the US equivalent to first class 3.5- 4 star accommodations. This ensures cleanliness, friendly, professional and respectful staff, private baths in each room etc. Some of our groups choose a more luxurious approach to their lodging and specifically request five star accommodations. Your itinerary and registration form will specify the type or rating of hotel which will be used. In your final documents you will receive the names and contact information for your booked hotels. Our student groups, youth groups and some others are framed around a smaller budget and request accommodations with a two or three star US equivalent. Similarly we ensure safe, secure and clean lodging, but at times with more than two occupants to a room, dorm style bathrooms etc. Should you have any questions, please consult with your Organizer/ Spiritual Director, or Contact us and we will be more than happy to help you. The hotels we use generally have irons and hair dryers available for your use. You may contact us or the hotels directly to confirm this when you receive your final documents should these or any other lodging amenities be a concern. Mini-bar, room service, laundry service, pay television, and other similar hotel services are not included in your tour price and we ask customers who may incur such charges please take care of their respective bill prior to check out of that hotel.
Meals and Drinks
MEALS Meals are provided as indicated on your registration and itinerary, breakfast (B), lunch (L), and dinner (D). Most itineraries have all breakfasts and dinners included. Some include lunches as well. Local cuisine plays an important factor in experiencing the culture of the places we visit. Breakfast is almost always buffet style at the hotel. Dinners are either at the hotel, served or buffet, or at a local private restaurant. Sometimes meals and their locations must be substituted. Some people prefer to eat dinner at the hotel so they can come and go as they please, others prefer going out for a different flavor. We try to mix it up a bit to accommodate the group. Those with special diets, allergies and other medical dietary restrictions must advise JPPT upon registration, AND their Escort upon Day 1. While we will do everything we can to accommodate your specific needs, please understand it is not always possible, and although we may have special meals confirmed from restaurants and airlines, they may still manage to fail on their part when it comes to meal time. Neither JPPT nor its Escorts, Guides and employees can be held responsible for meal related problems.

DRINKS Drinks are not always included with meals. Water is available at meals, but alcoholic beverages, soft drinks and others are generally not included. This is customary in locales we visit. With breakfast you can usually expect coffee, tea, and juice. Some of your dinners or lunches will include beverages, further some with beer or wine. Your Escort will advise of these special occasions.

Transportation
Transportation included in your package price is listed in the registration form and itinerary. Most itineraries use air and coach bus transportation. Some include ferry boat, gondola, public trolley and other forms of transportation. Some of our student or youth groups operating on a constrained budget chose to use train systems as well. Generally we do not use taxi services due to their inconvenience while travelling with a large group. If however you would like to travel by taxi during free time, or if walking becomes difficult and a taxi is available please remember to be diligent in choosing the company. Ask your Tour Escort, Guides, tourist information desk or other official for ad
vise in finding the local accredited service, with meters and the best rates.
How to Pack
Pack light, as it is always easier to travel this way. Review the weather for our destinations and always bring an extra layer such as a jacket or sweater as weather can change unpredictably. Expect to walk most days and bring comfortable footwear as well as something appropriate to wear in church. Many churches do not allow open toe footwear, exposed shoulders, shorts, etc. Women should bring a shawl or other clothing to cover their shoulders which can be kept with them every day should we visit a place where bare shoulders are not allowed. Please pack keys, cell phones, chargers, money, passport, tickets, itineraries, medications (enough for the entire trip plus a few days, in their original packaging with prescription), glasses and any other essential items in your carry on should your checked bag get lost or be delayed, during both flights to and from home.

ELECTRONICS We recommend bringing a small camera, spare memory cards, batteries and a charger. Electricity voltages are standardized as 110v or 220v. In the US we use a two or three flat pronged plug with 110v. In Europe, the power is 220v, in Mexico it is 110v. Different countries have different prong styles. Many electronic devices such as phone/camera chargers, shavers, and others can accept both 110v and 220v but do not have user adjustable plugs. Please check your device information tag, manual or contact the manufacturer to determine if it can be used with different voltages. If so, you may purchase an adaptor to plug into the wall outlet which allows you to use the flat blade style plug. They are available in most US electronics stores for under $20. If the device does not accept 220v, you may purchase a convertor which will transform the electricity to 220v. These are more expensive, heavier, and harder to find. The hotels we use generally have irons and hair dryers available for your use. You may contact us or the hotels directly to confirm this when you receive your final documents should this be a concern.

CLOTHING We recommend packing enough clothing to last as many days of the trip plus one or two. Layering rather than bringing several sweaters, jackets and coats etc will help minimize the amount of clothing you bring. Remember a jacket, and to bring comfortable clothes which are appropriate to wear to mass. Don’t forget toiletries and medications. Try not to bring big bottles of shampoo, soap etc., rather small travel sized containers. For more specific packing lists, we suggest looking here. We strongly suggest bringing a bible, prayer book and journal.

Short List:

  • Passport
  • Final Documents including E-Ticket, Itinerary, Hotel List, Important Contact Card
  • Copy of Passport (kept in separate location from Passport in case it is lost)
  • Credit Card
  • Cash- US, and local currency exchanged at major banks in US before departure
  • Bible
  • Travel Insurance information if purchased
  • Health card
  • Notebook and pen
  • Camera and charger/spare batteries
  • Phone numbers to family
  • Reading material
  • Very comfortable shoes
  • Clothes- spring/summer wear
  • Personal Hygiene items
  • Medications
  • Sunscreen
  • Hat
  • Sunglasses
  • Bathing suit
  • Alb and Stole (if Priest or Deacon participating in Mass) (usually white, confirm with your Spiritual Director prior to departure)
Luggage
You are allowed one checked bag, one carry-on bag and a personal item when traveling by air. Please review the above TSA webpage for size information, and the airline with which you are ticketed for their rules. If you are a status member with the airline with which you are ticketed, in some cases you may be allowed an additional checked bag free of charge. This is up to you to determine with the air carrier upon receipt of your ticket. Nonetheless, we still strongly encourage you to travel light, with only one checked bag, to ensure enough room in our coach busses and to minimize strain on you while travelling. We have arranged with many of our contracted hotels a luggage porter service. Not all hotels offer this service. This being so, packing light makes it easier on the occasion we must carry our own bags.

Terms and Conditions

Terms and Conditions

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

John Paul Pilgrimages & Tours (JPPT) agrees to operate tours under the following terms and conditions. A person’s payment for reservation, or involvement, or participation on any tour shall constitute consent to all provisions in the Terms and Conditions published herein. If you do not consent to these terms, you are hereby given notice not to participate in any tour with John Paul Pilgrimages and Tours, Inc.

RESERVATION AND PAYMENT: An initial non-refundable deposit per person as stated in the brochure is required to hold your reservation. The initial deposit must be turned in with a complete registration form. Balance is due on the date stated on the brochure as ‘full payment deadline’.  A $100 per person late fee will be applied to any final payment not received by the due date. Reservations for which full payment is not made until after the deadline will be charged any difference in increased airfare, hotel, and other reservation costs. JPPT accepts personal checks, cashier/bank checks, money orders, and credit cards. Customer agrees not to dispute any credit card charge associated with this trip. If your trip has a ‘Check/Money Order Discount’, it is only applicable if all payments per registration are made by actual paper check or money order, not ACH transfer or ‘e-check’. Should there be insufficient funds on a payment you send, a $25 service fee will be charged to your account. Every reservation must be accompanied by a signed registration form, which indicates acceptance of JPPT Terms and Conditions.

COST: Prices are based on a minimum group size of 30 participants. If this group size is not met 120 days prior to departure JPPT may cancel the trip, or provide registered participants the option to continue at a different price, calculated based on the current group size.

NOT INCLUDED: Items not expressly listed in Tour Inclusions on registration form for specified trip, Passport fees, visas (where required), optional tours and gratuities for these tours, and any other items of a personal nature including (but not limited to) excess baggage, laundry, alcoholic beverages, and mini-bar charges incurred in your hotel room are not included. Lunches or other meals not specified in the itinerary are not included. Drinks with meals are not standard. This includes soft drinks, coffee, tea, and alcohol. Some meals may have drinks included on your tour, refer to your specific itinerary, Tour Organizer and Guide for details.

BAGGAGE: No responsibility is incurred by JPPT for loss or damage to baggage or any of the customer’s belongings. JPPT is not responsible for airline charges incurred for passenger bags. The passenger is responsible for confirming baggage size, weight and other rules from the airlines directly after receiving final documents including airline tickets.

REQUIRED TRAVEL DOCUMENTS: It is the customer’s responsibility to acquire all required travel documents including (but not limited to) passports, visas, and immunizations in a timely manner. If you do not have these documents by the first day of travel or when needed, JPPT is not responsible for providing a refund for cancellation of your tour reservation.

PASSPORT REQUIREMENTS: A valid US Passport is required of all passengers. You must apply for a passport immediately if you do not have a valid one now. All passports must be valid for at least six months after the tour. Passports with the stamps of Syria, Iran, Korea and some others may not be permitted by some countries. Visit http://travel.state.gov/ for more information. US passengers do not need a VISA to European Union member countries. Passport and Visa requirements of travel are the traveler’s responsibility. You the customer are responsible to ensure you enter your information exactly as it will appear in your passport during the registration process for our services. Once airfare is purchased, we cannot change or correct your information. You may not be permitted to board aircraft if your information on your ticket does not match your passport exactly. JPPT accepts no responsibility for spelling errors.

FINAL TRAVEL DOCUMENTS: You will receive your final travel documents either at a group meeting approximately 2-3 weeks prior to departure if your group leader will hold one, otherwise by USPS mail 10-14 days prior to departure.

LAST MINUTE BOOKINGS: JPPT does not charge a fee for last minute bookings; however the nominal shipping fee of $50.00 may be assessed to cover costs related to expeditious document delivery. Customers registering for a tour after the published ‘Full/Final Payment Deadline’ will be charged any difference in increased airfare, hotel, and other reservation costs.

CANCELLATION BY JPPT: JPPT reserves the right to cancel any tour in full or part prior to departure for any reason, including insufficient number of participants, in which case a full refund will be given. This refund does not include travel protection, or any services booked on your own or separate from the JPPT tour package. JPPT accepts no responsibility for that which is described under SCHEDULES AND DELAYS and RESPONSIBILITY. Should any Organizer, Group Leader, or Spiritual Director be unable to attend the trip due to any reason, we will attempt to find a replacement. Cancellation or claims for refund because of Organizer, Group Leader, or Spiritual Director unplanned inability to attend will not be accepted. Should the Organizer, Group Leader, or Spiritual Director be unable to attend, the tour will proceed as scheduled on the dates listed. JPPT, the Organizer, Group Leader, or Spiritual Director shall not be liable for any loss or claim to reimbursement due to the Organizer, Group Leader, or Spiritual Director’s inability or unwillingness to participate or attend the planned trip or portion thereof for any reason.

CANCELLATION OF TOUR DUE TO GOVERNMENT RESTRICTIONS: In the event that government restrictions are put in place in the US or abroad which specifically inhibit our trip to occur at all, we are required to postpone to a later date. This pertains to government restrictions, not recommendations or guidelines which otherwise do not restrict travel, but rather suggest or recommend travelers not to travel. We will make the decision to postpone a trip no sooner than 3 weeks prior to the scheduled departure. Your registration and payments will be carried over and credited to the new dates, or to a different future scheduled pilgrimage if requested. Cancellation penalties remain according to the original date of registration. We strongly urge pilgrims to consider purchasing Travel Protection.

CANCELLATIONS AND REFUNDS: Refunds are limited. Cancellations MUST be confirmed in writing to be considered for a refund. Initial deposit and travel protection are non-refundable. If you elected to share a room with a roommate, and you cancel, you are responsible for paying your roommate’s single supplement. Airline tickets that have been purchased on your behalf are non-refundable regardless of when or why you cancel. The following cancellation forfeiture schedule is in effect: Cancellations received 120-91 days prior to departure: 30% of the trip price will be forfeited, 90-61 days prior to departure: 40% of trip price, 60 to 31 days prior to departure: 60% of trip price will be forfeited, 30-0 days prior to departure or no show: 100% of the trip price. Refund requests for lost airline tickets, travel vouchers, or associated penalties, or for absenteeism, missed sightseeing, meals, or other unused services are not possible. Refer to Travel Protection, Unused Services, and Participation. We strongly encourage purchasing Travel Cancellation Protection.

UNUSED SERVICES: No refunds will be made for any unused portion of the package.

PARTICIPATION: JPPT reserves the right to withdraw your membership of the current tour at any time if at our own discretion we determine you impose upon or disturb the other members of the tour or may be detrimental to the tour. If your participation is withdrawn by JPPT, you will not be refunded any portion of the trip, your group related land and air arrangements will be cancelled, and you will be returned to your US departure airport promptly.

TRAVEL PROTECTION: Travel protection, Medical Protection, Trip Cancellation and other related insurance is optional but highly recommended by JPPT. Please review the travel protection information provided. We offer Travel Protection options through Travel Insured Inc, and can recommend their service. You may choose any Travel Protection Company you would like. At the time of Registration you must elect to either purchase or decline Travel Protection on your registration form.

SCHEDULES AND DELAYS and RESPONSIBILITY: All travel times and the itinerary is based on the last timetable and best information available. JPPT accepts no responsibility for changes, cancellation, losses or expenses due to delays or changes in schedule by the airlines, hotel overbooking, or default, sickness, weather, strikes, war, quarantine, riots or insurrections, political disorders of any type, acts of God, criminal activity, epidemic, act of terrorism, State Department Advisory or Warning, attack by animals, or other such similar causes. All such losses or expenses will be borne by the passenger/customer. All terms including cancellation and refund terms apply regardless of any State Department, Center for Disease Control or other agency advisory, warning, restriction, suggestions, or guideline related to travel in, to, or from any destination.

GROUP AIR TRANSPORTATION: Trip fees are based on economy class group seating. Due to airline policies, the number of connections, layover, and any condition related to air travel cannot be guaranteed and may change often prior to departure. We cannot assign seats or make any special requests of any kind to the airlines. Deviations are not allowed on group flights meaning if you need to fly on different dates than the group, you must purchase a Land-Only package and not make flight arrangements through JPPT. Seat numbers are assigned by the airline at check-in. We have no control or way to make requests for specific seats. You may not receive any frequent flyer miles by flying on a group flight. Flights are not upgradeable. If you wish to upgrade flights, or choose seats, or change your flight itinerary, you must register Land Only and manage your own flight arrangements.

LAND ONLY: If customer is registered on a ‘Land Only’ basis, services begin and end at the group’s hotel on the first and last day. Land Only customers are responsible for their transportation to/from airports to meet the group at the hotel unless they make arrangements to meet at the airport. The group will not be held late or arrive early at airports to accommodate Land Only customers. If you purchase a Land-Only package, do not purchase your own flights until you are notified that the minimum group size has been met and the trip will definitely operate.

POSSIBLE CHANGES TO ITINERARY OR HOTELS: Occasionally, the land portion of your tour may be altered due to transportation schedules, airline or other delays, weather, strikes, road construction, or for war, quarantines, riots or insurrections, political disorders of any type or other unforeseen reasons outside of our control. JPPT reserves the right to substitute hotels or any other tour elements mentioned in the tour brochure, including the right to alter the itinerary to substitute any city or country, when more than one country is included on the itinerary, for a package of equal duration and value if required. We will make every effort in our ability to maintain the same itinerary and services before making alterations.

ABOUT YOUR HOTEL: We use Government rated Hotels that are chosen based on location, cleanliness, services, and those which are typical of the local area. All rooms have private bath and toilet facilities. In all cases, hotel management assigns your room. Location, view, and size may vary. Rooms are assigned based on the provided rooming list and the hotels’ abilities to fulfill rooming requests. Air conditioning is not standard at all hotels and cannot be guaranteed. Note: some groups are arranged with lower or higher class overnight accommodations. Student and other groups may be arranged with hostels which may have three or more people to a room, and a shared bathroom down the hall, or other less expensive group housing. Check with your program material and group organizer for more information.

SINGLE ROOMS: Hotel rates and reservations are based on double occupancy. Single rooms may be requested for an additional fee and based upon the availability of each hotel. JPPT cannot guarantee a single room will be available. Should you pay the single room fee stated in the trip brochure and are not provided with a single room, a refund will be given for the difference in cost. It is your responsibility to specify a roommate. If you do not specify a roommate and one cannot be arranged, you will be charged the stated fee for single room occupancy during your trip.

TARIFF AND EXCHANGE FLUCTUATIONS: All prices herein are quoted in US dollars and are based on tariffs and exchange levels in effect at the time of the tour brochure and itinerary publishing.

MEALS: Provided meals are specified in the travel itinerary. All other beverages and meals are your responsibility. JPPT reserves the right to make substitutions or trade meal days/times so long as they remain of equal or greater value.

HEALTH AND ACCESSIBILITY AND SPECIAL ASSISTANCE: While we strive to provide the highest level of service to our passengers with special medical and dietary needs, we cannot guarantee any special facilities, assistance or specific meals for individuals with such needs. You must be medically and physically fit to travel on this trip. There will be a significant amount of walking as busses cannot always drive very close to our destination. This trip is not accessible to wheelchairs, walkers, or canes. There will be times requiring a lot of walking, often up and down hills, rough terrain, cobblestone, stairs, uneven and slippery surfaces, possibly at high elevation. We suggest you exercise and prepare yourself to walk several miles per day without discomfort. All accessibility needs due to disability or condition must be provided in writing at the time of deposit. This allows JPPT the opportunity to evaluate whether or not this trip is possible for you. Please remember that the American’s with Disabilities Act (ADA) is not applicable in other countries and JPPT cannot guarantee nor is it responsible for any denial of service by carriers, hotels, restaurants, or other independent suppliers. JPPT requires that any participant needing any special assistance must arrange a physically able companion(s) to accompany said participant for the entirety of the trip.

GRATUITIES: If your Package Inclusions do not specifically state ‘Gratuities Included’, the following applies.

It is customary and expected by guides and drivers that they will receive a tip. They factor these funds as part of their income and commitment to you, their customers. We ask that you tip the escort/guide the international standard $5 USD per person per day and the driver $3 USD per person per day. The tip for a local guide with half day tour is usually $1 USD per person, or $2 USD per person for full day tours. Your Organizer and/or Spiritual Director spend a significant amount of time and energy planning your pilgrimage, keeping things in order, and creating a memorable experience for you. You are encouraged to let them know if they were successful in this endeavor, and if you like you may offer them a donation or gratuity.

If your Package Inclusions specifically state ‘Gratuities Included’, the following applies. Some groups are structured with gratuities already included. In this case, we have included a base amount in your total cost to tip your guides and drivers. These are low amounts based on international standards and expectations. If you feel your guide(s) offered exceptional service you may offer them a gratuity.

TRAVELERS UNDER THE AGE OF 18: Those traveling under the age of 18 will be considered a minor and must be accompanied by an adult. The adult and minor will be paired as roommates for the trip. Minors may be able to travel to another country without either one of their parents. They will however require a notarized written consent letter from both parents. Minors interested in traveling without their parents should contact the embassy of the countries in the itinerary to address admissibility questions. A list of embassies and entry requirements can be obtained at the Department of State website, or call the particular embassy by phone.

RESPONSIBILITY: The responsibility of John Paul Pilgrimages & Tours (JPPT) is limited. As a tour operator, JPPT organizes, promotes, and sells tour programs consisting of certain travel services, including (but not limited to) surface transportation, sightseeing excursions, and hotel accommodations which JPPT purchases or reserves from various suppliers. The suppliers providing travel services for JPPT’s tour programs are independent contractors and are not agents or employees of JPPT or any subsidiary company. JPPT is not responsible for any act, error, omission, injury to person or property, loss, death, inconvenience, accident, delay, irregularity, upset, disappointment, whether physical or mental, or any other event which might be occasioned through or by reason of negligence, defect or default of any company and/or their employees, agents or servants, or facilities engaged in providing any of the services, accommodations, or facilities in connection with these programs. It is expressly understood that JPPT is not responsible for any delays in the departure of any flight or non-operation of any flight hereunder due to reasons beyond its control, and shall have no liability whatsoever regarding flight delays, including (but not limited to) liability for damage relating to shortened vacation. Should you miss a flight, all arrangements and costs associated with any remedy of the situation shall be borne by the customer. JPPT shall have the right to cancel or alter in any way any scheduled itinerary, which, in its sole judgment and discretion, is justified for health, safety and security of its passengers, and to do so without liability for damage or liability for any loss to passengers.

INDEMNITY: Customer agrees to indemnify and hold harmless JPPT, its owners, employees and Agents of and from any and all claims, demands, losses, causes of action, damage, lawsuits, judgments, including attorneys’ fees and costs, to the extent caused by or arising out of or relating to the work of any travel service supplier contracted by JPPT i.e. airline, tour company, bus company, hotel, restaurant etc. See Binding Arbitration.

PRIVACY STATEMENT: JPPT does not sell or divulge the names, addresses or any other personal information gathered, to any third party or company other than for purposes directly related to the itinerary.

PHOTOGRAPHY/ SIMILAR MEDIA: By attending a trip with JPPT you expressly agree to allow JPPT and its Agents to obtain and use your image, voice and likeness for promotional and commercial use without payment of any fee or royalties. This media may be used in commercial, promotional, advertising, web and other such materials in both printed and electronic form.

BINDING ARBITRATION: I agree that any dispute concerning, relating or referring to this Agreement, the brochure or any other literature concerning my trip, or the trip itself, shall be resolved exclusively by binding arbitration pursuant to the Federal Arbitration Act, 9 U.S.C. §§1-16 and the Judicial Branch of Arizona, Maricopa County. Such proceedings will be governed by substantive (but not procedural) Arizona law and will take place in Maricopa County, Arizona. The arbitrator and not any federal, state, or local court or agency shall have exclusive authority to resolve any dispute relating to the interpretation, applicability, enforceability, conscionability, or formation of this contract, including but not limited to any claim that all or any part of this contract is void or voidable.

CHANGES TO TERMS: Should there be a change to these terms and conditions; you will be notified in writing. If changes to terms and conditions are made within 90 days of departure, the previous set of terms and conditions will remain in effect for your trip. These terms are valid as of June 2020.

ERRORS: In case of printing, typographical errors, computer errors, verbal or human billing error, we reserve the right to invoice or re-invoice participants with correct billing.

Safety

Safety

Are we Pilgrims safe?

COVID-19 News

Get up to date news and information specifically about Travel Safety and News, Updates, and Alerts regarding COVID-19.

The safety of our pilgrims is our #1 priority

We have a comprehensive process to ensure your safety starting at the trip planning phase, continuing all the way until your flight arrives back in the USA. We are in constant contact with local agencies at your destination, as well as keeping up to date with US Dept. of State bulletins. Our Crisis Management Plans are continually updated and reviewed to make sure we know what to do if something happens while you are on your trip, from losing your passport, to large scale terrorism incidents, you are in good hands.

Safety in Israel

Israel remains a very popular tourist destination, with over 3 million visitors to the country in 2014 alone, almost one-fifth of whom came from the United States. In fact, 2015 is looking to be the best year ever for American tourism to Israel, with some 700,000 visitors traveling and returning home safely, according to the Government of Israel, Ministry of Tourism. Each year, more Americans vacation in Israel than in Thailand, New Zealand, Denmark, Belgium, Switzerland, Greece, Portugal, South Africa, Morocco and India.

A letter from one of our directors to a group leader on safety in Israel:

“Regarding Israel, I have been there several times in the recent past, and our sister organization in Poland has about 40 groups there every year.   I don’t pay much attention to US news regarding the Holy Land as its mostly hyper dramatized and not accurate. Yes bad stuff happens, but not where we are going. They strive on peace and tourism; something like 70% of their economy depends on tourism, so all sides want it to be peaceful in the Holy Land, where we travel. This being said, we constantly monitor activities there through our connections in Israel, as well as the US Department of State. If the Dept. of State issues a travel warning telling US Citizens not to travel to Israel, we will not go. If this is the case, airlines will refund our funds and hotels etc. follow suit. We then refund our registrants. This has never happened yet for us, but you never know what will come. In my experience, I have never felt unsafe in Israel. Just like there are places in Phoenix you should not go to alone, or at night, or LA, or New York, those places exist worldwide including Israel. We don’t go to places like that and we monitor what is happening before, and during the trip to ensure our pilgrims’ safety and security. If an issue arises, we will work with the embassy and state department. We make sure we stay current just in case. We do not travel to/near the Gaza Strip, or Golan Heights.”

From our local contacts in Israel:

“The Holy Land is considered a tourist friendly country that receives over 3 million tourists from different parts of the world every year. One out of five tourists to Israel is American. A very high sense of security for travelers and pilgrims is maintained by both Israel and Palestinian police, which creates a very comfortable atmosphere everywhere in the Holy Land. Both local authorities and the people who make this their home, appreciate the contribution of tourism to the local economy, which has been a major industry for both Palestinians and Israelis. Both sides are doing their best to welcome pilgrims and tourists and show them the famous Middle Eastern hospitality. We are aware that safety is a major concern for many travelers who are considering a visit to the Holy Land, but the facts speak for themselves. In the last 15 years there is not a single Christian Pilgrim from the USA or from any other country that has been
killed in a direct attack in either Israel or Palestine. Your chances of being killed by a terrorist are about 1 in 20 million! There are no reports to suggest that a tourist has ever been attacked in relation to politics or conflict or faced any type of hostilities. I would say it is completely safe to travel to Israel and Palestine. Although no one can totally guarantee safety, the safety issue on a journey to the Holy Land is similar to that of a trip to New York City or any other place around the world! Some calculations suggest that the crime rate in Israel and Palestine is much lower than the typical city in the USA. In addition, all of the guides and tourism service providers know how to identify any change in the atmosphere and are instructed to put the safety of their guests on the top list of their priorities. Despite what is heard in the media, The Holy Land is generally a safe place to visit and tourists do feel secure while moving and visiting everywhere in Israel and Palestine. We are now aiming to maintain the number of tourists that are visiting the Holy Land, while increasing the numbers and making tourism a sustainable industry, and by providing a unique spiritual experience for people from around the world. Recently, with all the ugly images of the terrorists of ISIS and others that spread on the Net, people are becoming more concerned about their traveling into the Middle East, but I would like to emphasis that Israel, Palestine, Jordan and many other countries in the Middle East are ISIS FREE, and there are no reports that suggest that there is any presence of any of those terrorist groups in our land. The Holy Land is still a very safe, beautiful and an outstanding destination that you are all invited to consider, so do not hesitate, just call your travel agent and find out about the unforgettable, spiritual pilgrimage into the Holy Land.”

Become a Pilgrim

Become a Pilgrim

Become a Pilgrim!

Why

Prepare yourself spiritually for this journey. Pray that our Holy Family open your heart and mind to allow the Holy Spirit to enrich your experience, your life, and deepen your faith. It is during a pilgrimage where we learn so much about ourselves and are able to come home as faithful Christians.

How

Pray the rosary, attend mass and go to confession. Maintain an open mindset and break free of any misconceptions or expectations and you will experience a pilgrimage with the heart of a young child in wonder when experiencing new things.

A Pilgrimage is a spiritual journey meant to bring you closer to your faith, creating a deeper understanding of God’s love for all. Expect to be on your feet every day, walking, praying, singing and of course, sightseeing!

Let go of your day-to-day and focus

Don't Rush

We want you to have an awakening of spirit, a rejuvenation of faith and the peace and grace of the Holy Spirit with you when you travel with us. We will not rush our Pilgrims through the song and dance rhetoric of a ‘typical tour’ where you listen to someone tell you about the construction dates and time period related to the various chapels, shrines, and historical sites all while driving by in a bus as quickly as possible. This is a pilgrimage, a time for you to reflect, grow closer to your faith, learn and appreciate history. Our guides, and the local guides absolutely share a wealth of knowledge with you, but still we will have time for ourselves, time to pray and reflect, and of course, time to go out on your own if you like. We will provide an exclusive experience with your friends, family and fellow parishioners. We celebrate Holy Mass every day in the very chapels or holy places we are visiting. This truly is the encounter of a lifetime.
Tour vs Vacation vs Pilgrimage

On a Tour, you go to see places. On a Vacation, you go to get away and relax. On a Pilgrimage, you go to come closer to God, to your faith, to learn and reflect. You will become a real Pilgrim when you are able to let go of your busy life and take the time to experience beautiful places with new friends and fellow parishioners while allowing God into your heart, to hear His call for us to become faithful followers of Christ. Jesus gave His mortal life for us, now is our opportunity to allow a few days to reflect and grow closer to Him.

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