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Thank you for visiting the AmeriCan Adventures website. We are pleased to announce that AmeriCan Adventures has merged with TrekAmerica
to offer a more extensive range of travel options. TrekAmerica
offers the same high quality tours that you would expect to
receive from AmeriCan Adventures and we all stand by our commitment
to provide the most exciting adventure travel that North America
has to offer.
The new TrekAmerica year-round brochure, covering the
USA, Canada, Alaska and Mexico, has something for everyone
ranging from our camping tours for 18-38 year olds, to our
Footloose open aged lodging and walking trips.
If you are a past AmeriCan Adventures passenger, you
are eligible to join TrekAmerica's "Frequent Trekkers
Club". Special discounts are available to all members.
For more details and free registration, please click
here.
For further information on our full range of tours and
the best
adventure travel in USA, Canada, Alaska & Mexico,
please visit:
www.TrekAmerica.com
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We would like to take
a moment to explain a little about The Adventure Guide.
Undoubtedly, you're getting excited about your next adventure
and you have lots of questions about where to go, what
to do and how to pack. We hope this pre-departure page
will answer many of these questions…and more.
As you read through this page you will find details regarding
articles you should not forget; such as clothes, personal
items and a flashlight (or torch). Naturally, this booklet
cannot answer all your questions or list all of the things
you'll want to take, but it should be used as a general
guide.
However, this should not be taken as a substitute for
good sense. Do not forget water when in the desert and
do not hang out in Central Park at night. Also remember,
like the weather, things may change so be prepared.
It is important to remember, when travelling in a group
that self-reliance should not be forsaken. We will take
you places and show you things you have never dreamed
of, but it is up to you to make the most of it.
Our trips are designed for people like you, who want to
experience life to the fullest. These are not your typical
package holidays; participation and flexibility are what
it's all about. So pack your sense of adventure, leave
your worries behind and don't forget, we are here to help
with any last minute questions or concerns.
See ya' on the road…
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Before Your Trip
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All international flights are the
passengers own responsibility. AmeriCan Adventures is
unable to delay a trip or finish a trip early due to your
international flight times. We recommend you book your
flight to arrive into the departure city at least one
day prior to your trips departure, this will allow you
some adjustment time and opportunities for sightseeing.
You should book your return flight for the day after your
trip finishes. If you do have to return home on the day
your trip finishes, please make sure your flight does
not depart before 8pm.
In the event you must leave the trip early for your return
flight, AmeriCan Adventures must be informed two weeks
before your trips departure. AmeriCan Adventures cannot
be held responsible for any costs incurred by the passenger
as a result of joining a trip late or departing early.
Please Note: We are not responsible for any international
flight delays, cancellations or changes to your flights
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It is your responsibility
to obtain the proper passport and Visa(s) for the country/countries
you are visiting. Please keep in mind that as some trips
spend time in the United States, Canada and Mexico you
will need the correct visas for all countries visited.
Contact your travel agent or nearest appropriate consulate
if you need further assistance.
We recommend that you take copies of your passport, Visas
and flight tickets and carry them separately from the
original documents. This will help in case of loss or
theft.
Note: Make sure your passport is valid for 6 months
after your entry into a country.
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You must be covered by
personal health insurance and we also recommend taking
out baggage and cancelation insurance. Make sure that
your policy covers all the optional activities which interest
you, these are listed on the relevant trip page in this
booklet. Most insurance is quite cheap considering how
expensive North America's health care costs tend to be.
Please note: We are not responsible for any Insurance
claims you may have before, during or after your tour.
Travel insurance is entirely the passengers own responsibility.
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If you have any
medical condition such as diabetes, epilepsy, asthma,
etc. or take prescribed medicines you must tell your group
leader on the first day of the tour. This information
is strictly confidential between you and your group leader,
but is essential in case of emergency.
Please note: If you are over the age of 60 years
and are joining one of our tours we require a doctors
certificate. This needs to be given to your travel agent
at the time of booking. |
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Vaccinations
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At present there is no need for any
vaccinations when traveling in the USA or Canada.
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We
recommend you take $25 US Dollars per day to budget for
your optional activities and snacks along the way, (excluding
food kitty and en-route hotel expenses).
You should bring the majority of this in small denomination
travelers checks, this way they can easily be changed
in supermarkets and gas stations along the way and are
the safest way to guard against loss. Although Visa, MasterCard
and American Express are accepted in many places in North
America, don't rely too heavily on credit cards because
technology will not exist at some of our favorite off
the beaten track destinations.
An 'emergency fund' of $100 is a terrific idea for that
dream item that you didn't budget for. Remember, those
of you who are bound for both Canada and the US, to properly
split your purchase of travelers checks between $US and
$CAN.
When you exchange your money into dollars you may find
American money somewhat confusing as it is all the same
size and color. Train yourself quickly to look only for
the dollar amount. Each of the coins has a nickname, 5
cent pieces are nickels, 10 cent pieces are dimes, and
25 cent pieces are called quarters.
In Canada the one dollar coins are called 'loonies', after
the common bird and the 2 dollar piece is conveniently
called the 'twoonie'. |
Bring only the bare necessities.
Your one rucksack/suitcase and a sleeping bag will be
carried under cover on top of the maxiwagon on the roof
rack. Only one day pack should be brought in addition
for your daily use items inside the vehicle. Keep in mind
that our dress tends to be informal. Below is a list of
things to help you:
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T-Shirts
/ Shirts / Blouses
Sandals / Sneakers / Hiking shoes
Underwear / Socks
Trousers / Jeans / Shorts
Dress or skirt (optional)
Swimwear
Warm sweater
Waterproof jacket
Casual evening clothes
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Toiletries
/ Personal medicine
Towel and face cloth / Shaving supplies
Flashlight (Torch)
Sunscreen/Glasses/Hat
Alarm clock/ Watch
Camera & Film
Travel power adapter (optional)
Insect repellent
Passport/ Visas
Airline / Trip tickets
Sleeping bag (unless you purchase on tour)
For early/late departures,
especially in Canada and Alaska, please be prepared for
possible cold or wet weather.
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All AmeriCan Adventures
trips require you to have a sleeping bag. If you do not
want to bring one with you, a good quality bag can be
ordered on the first day of your trip. Regular sleeping
bags cost US $40, early/late season bags cost US $80.
This service is only available if you are starting your
trip in Los Angeles, New York or Seattle. If you choose
to bring your own make sure it is warm enough for the
time of year!
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Pre-Trip Questions:
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| We are here to help you! |
If you have any pre-trip questions
and would like to speak to one of our sales team
please contact us at the relevant numbers below:
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Telephone: + 44
(0)1295 756 200
email: info@americanadventures.co.uk
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Telephone: Toll
Free - 1 800-TREK-USA (1 800-8735-872)
email: aasales@premiereops.com
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Joining Your
Trip
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On entering a country you will
need to proceed through customs. As long as you
have a valid passport and visa (if necessary) you
will have no worries. You may be asked your destination
or how you intend to support yourself. If so, show
your trip voucher and return airline ticket.
If you have entered a country as part of a Visa
Waiver scheme (ie; USA and Canada) make sure you
keep the remaining portion of your completed customs
form in the back of your passport ready to surrender
when you leave.
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| Don't panic! |
The unexpected can happen. Your
plane may be delayed or you may even miss it (oops).
If you have missed your trip, check with the front
desk at the departure hotel/hostel for a message.
If there is no message call the relevant number
and speak to our office staff who will be happy
to help you catch up with the group.
AmeriCan Adventures has office toll free telephone
numbers within the USA.
Monday to Saturday please call the nearest office
to you:
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| Canada &
Alaska: |
1 800 600
5343 |
| East Coast
USA: |
1 800 637
8931 |
| West Coast
USA: |
1 800 345
8777 |
| Sundays
call: |
1
800 600 5343 |
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| All our trips
depart from our gateway hotels at 7:30am. Make sure
you have packed your bags, checked out of your room
and had breakfast, before meeting your group. Your
group leader will be waiting for you in the hotel
lobby wearing an AmeriCan Adventures staff shirt
and will have a passenger list with your name on
it. |
Our trips are one
of the best ways in life to meet people from many
different countries - take advantage of this. You
could be traveling with English, Dutch, French,
Italian, Germans, Spanish, Swiss, Israelis, Australians,
New Zealanders, Japanese and even Americans and
Canadians.
The average age of our travelers is approximately
26. You will find that you have many things in common
with your fellow travelers which normally includes
a passion for adventure and a strong interest in
exploring North and Latin America.
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We understand that
your group leader is perhaps the most important
ingredient in your trip. Thus we select only the
absolute best of our many applicants. They are chosen
for their knowledge of their country, their experience
in the outdoors, their ability to drive well and,
of course, for their sense of humor and leadership.
By the time our group leaders conduct their first
trips, they have been trained by a team comprised
of both management and the best of our senior group
leaders.
Your group leader will ensure that you have the
time of your life while making sure that everything
is still safe. However, they are not supermen or
superwomen and you must be prepared to help plan
and cook the meals, keep the vehicle clean, load
the luggage and above all things, participate! |
On all trips we
use Dodge or Ford maxiwagons. These have 15 seats
(maximum 13 passengers) and are the ultimate adventure
vehicle. All have air-conditioning, tinted windows,
comfortable seating with a stereo cassette player,
so bring a couple of tapes with you!
The maxiwagons also have a large roofrack where
we store all your luggage, camping and cooking equipment
as well as excellent suspension so we can travel
off the beaten track where the crowds in coaches
cannot go!
Please note that that smoking is not permitted in
the maxiwagons but regular stops are made for those
who wish to smoke.
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| Diversity
is the key! |
Your first defense against
any problem is to keep an open mind; diversity is the
main reason for travel in the first place. The vast majority
of our travelers are pleasantly surprised that North American
culture is not as simple as Hollywood would lead us to
believe.
Give yourself time to adjust to the cultural differences,
you may even find that it makes a pleasant change from
home. We have provided you with a list of all the major
destinations and sites you will visit on your trip, read
up about these areas or speak to someone who has been
there. The more information you know beforehand the more
you will enjoy your adventure!
The great thing about traveling with an international
group of people is that you get to experience different
customs and cultures and not just those of the country
you are traveling in. Just remember - the more you put
into your trip the more you will get out of it!
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The drinking
age in the US is 21. If you are under this age you will
be refused entry to bars and most discos. Proof of age
is your passport, so never forget to take your passport
on nights out as you will probably be refused admission
without it. In most Canadian provinces the legal drinking
age is 18, in others it is 19. Again always carry your
proof of identification (ID) with you when going out to
bars.
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| Some of the
campgrounds and hostels we use are in State or National
Parks where the consumption of alcohol is illegal. Your
group leader will advise you of the restrictions regarding
drinking in these areas. Keep in mind that wherever you
are staying you will have neighbors, please have consideration
for the other people, especially from 10pm to 7am which
are generally considered 'quiet hours'. |
Possession of drugs without
a proper medical prescription will not be tolerated. If
anyone is found with an illegal drug they will be instantly
excluded from the trip. Should you need to take any special
medication, please inform your group leader on the first
day of your trip.
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During Your Trip
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| There
is no average day! |
Because our trips are
very flexible there is no such thing as an average day,
however, there are some things that you can expect from
'life on the road'.
The day begins when we rise and shine and eat breakfast.
We will pack up and head out to begin our exploring for
the day. We do make frequent stops while on the road in
order to use the facilities, toss the frisbee, kick a
football or relax in the sun. We try to stop at any major
attractions along the way each day. This might include
a short hike, a swim in a local water hole or maybe even
an afternoon stop for river rafting. We aim to be set
up in camp by early evening. After cooking dinner weíre
free to explore our nightlife opportunities. You will
soon become adept at packing and unpacking quickly.
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Although
each trip follows a set itinerary, from time to time your
group leader may suggest a small change. This may be due
to road conditions, weather, or to visit a special attraction
like a baseball game or state fair that happens to be
in progress. Often a side diversion will be a highlight
of the trip. The beauty of traveling in a small group
means that you have the flexibility to take advantage
of everything.
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North America
is very LARGE. On some trips you will cover some long
distances, this allows you to experience the flavor of
numerous states or provinces and still have the chance
to relax.
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On all of
our North American tours we operate a food kitty system.
Your group leader will collect the food kitty money of
US$42 (US$49 in Canada & Alaska) per week. This can
be paid in either travelers checks or dollars cash, credit
cards are not accepted for food kitty payment.
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Food kitty
money will cover breakfast, lunch and evening campsite
meals. You can expect to eat cereals, fruit juices, coffee/tea
for breakfast. Lunch on the road is usually sandwiches,
chips/crisps, salad and fresh fruit. The evening meal
is cooked by members of the group and is up to you! For
the days that we are staying in a city (ie. not on the
road), you are encouraged to try many of the specialty
foods that each North American city offers, so allow a
little extra money for the nights you eat out in local
restaurants.
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| We will
provide all cooking equipment, ie; stoves, cooking utensils,
plates and cutlery. Everyone will take turns being the
nightly chefs in groups of 3 or 4, you will all take part
in the buying, preparation and cooking of the food. If
you have a favorite recipe that can be cooked easily,
bring it along to share with the group. If you are all
thumbs at cooking, donít worry, you can get instruction
from the others in your group. For all you vegetarians,
it is quite common for each trip to have people with special
dietary needs, don't worry, just mention this to your
group on the first day of your trip. In any case, meals
are a fun part of the camping experience and many memorable
dinners have resulted from collective efforts. |
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| All AmeriCan
Adventures trips use both National and State Park campsites
and also a wide assortment of private campgrounds. Almost
all will have hot showers and flush toilets, some will
even have swimming pools and bars on site while others
will accentuate the natural beauty of the area and thus
tend to be more rustic. Some campgrounds will have coin
operated showers so try to keep a good supply of quarters
with you throughout the trip. |
| If you haven't
camped before - Don't worry, we make it easy. Most of
our first timers actually grow to love sleeping in the
great outdoors. You will sleep in high quality, heavy
duty four person tents which you share with one other
happy camper. We provide you with a ridged foam sleeping
mat for your comfort. You may want to bring along your
own inflatable type of sleeping mattress. You are responsible
for your tent so please keep your new home tidy! |
When we are in the big
cities we use inexpensive hotels rather than camping outside
of the city. This makes your stay more enjoyable and allows
you the flexibility to explore the area at leisure.
All en-route hotels are noted on your trip itinerary with
an (H) so you know how many you will have to budget for.
The cost of these hotels are NOT included in your trip
cost and must be paid for locally to you group leader
while on tour. You should budget US $35 per night for
a multi-share room, occasionally rooms will be twinshare
at a higher cost.
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Although it may not
be customary in your country, it is normal and expected
in North America to tip waiters, bar staff, any type of
guide and taxi drivers. These service workers are paid
a low wage and depend upon their tips for their livelihood.
A minimum of 15% is standard in restaurants. Another charge
not normally listed in North American costs is the state
and federal taxes, keep this in mind when your bill comes
out slightly higher than the original price listed.
Your AmeriCan Adventures group leader works long and hard
for you. He or she may well become your friend during
the trip but they do need to pay their bills. There is
no obligation to tip your group leader, however, if the
leader's performance meets or exceeds your expectations
they will gladly accept one from you. You should plan
to tip your group leader at least $10 per week.
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The trip you have booked
is one filled with adventure, therefore, the best way
for you to experience everything that you are dreaming
of is to be on time each day. Passengers getting up late
in the morning and returning back to the maxiwagon late
during the day will hold up the group and the tour will
lose valuable sightseeing time. Be sure to bring a watch
and alarm clock.
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| Use
your common sense! |
Anywhere you
find yourself in the world you need to look after your
valuables. Use your best common sense! Don't leave cameras
lying in the maxiwagon in cities or in tents when away
from camp. In general, the safest place for items such
as passports, flight tickets and cash is on your person.
When in doubt consult you group leader.
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In the big
cities in general, pickpockets are common. Always keep
an eye on your belongings especially if you are carrying
a bag. At hotels we recommend you leave your travel documents
and unused money in the hotel safe. There may be a small
charge for this service. When you go out at night your
group leader will be able to advise you on where and where
not to go: you can also ask at the hotel where you are
staying for advice on various areas within a city.
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The time may arise on
your trip when you feel an overwhelming need to brag to
someone back home about the amazing time you're having.
We recommend you purchase an international calling card.
Shoveling coins into a public telephone can be both inconvenient
and will be more expensive.
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All maxiwagons carry
a basic first-aid kit, but you should bring your own medical
supplies for everyday use i.e. Aspirin/Paracetamol, plasters,
antibiotic cream and anything else you may require.
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Adventurers' Information
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US time is calculated on Standard time, which is observed
from the last Sunday in October until the last Sunday
in April. To determine US time during the remainder of
the year (daylight saving time) add one hour.
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The continental USA is
divided into 5 different time zones
Eastern Standard Time (New York) GMT - 5
Central Standard Time (Chicago) GMT -6
Mountain Standard Time (Denver) - GMT -7
Pacific Standard Time (Los Angeles) - GMT
Alaska: (Anchorage) GMT - 9
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There may be an opportunity
to join the screaming fans, meet with the locals and enjoy
a sporting event on one of your trips. Below is a guide
to the Sporting Seasons in North America.
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Baseball April - Sep
Basketball Nov - May
Football Aug - Dec
Ice Hockey Oct - May
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In North America, dates
are written differently.
For Example; 5.9.99 means 9th May, not 5th Sept!
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If you are planning to
bring electrical items such as a hair dryer or shaver
make sure to bring a travel adapter plug and voltage converter
(if necessary) for the country you are visiting. Below
are the different voltages for various countries:
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100-110 Voltage
Mexico
North America
Japan
La Paz - Bolivia
Costa Rica
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220-240 Voltage
UK
Europe
New Zealand
Bolivia (La Paz has both 110 & 220)
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240-250 Voltage
Australia
Peru
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