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Gate 1’s New Tour Types, Explained

Gate 1 Travel has released a new system for categorizing our growing range of travel experiences. We hope that the new categories, which are now listed on the table of contents for each destination, will help our passengers find their preferred travel experience more quickly.

The new tour categories focus on a few key elements: season, itinerary, length, and group size. The list below can also be found on destination tables of contents by hovering over the blue question mark at the top of the “Category” column.

Classic – First class accommodations, balance of included sightseeing and free time, transfers & multiple meals included.

Off Season – Beat the crowds with a Classic tour itinerary in the off-season, and save on land services and airfare.

Partially Escorted – A portion of your itinerary will feature escorted touring services with additional time traveling independently.

Value – Tourist and/or first class accommodations, minimal inclusions with a variety of optional tours available to customize your experience.

Express – Short getaways featuring the highlights of a destination with maximum efficiency.

Luxury – Deluxe accommodations, unique & exclusive experiences, exceptional food, all touring and most gratuities included.

Small Group – Maximum 22 travelers, unique & boutique accommodations, enhanced cultural immersion

Independent – Explore at your own pace, without the included features of an escorted tour.

• Posted in: News , Travel Tips , Uncategorized

Posted by Gate 1 Travel

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Gate 1 Travel Review: Are Their Organized Tours Worth It?

Have you ever wanted to take a trip where everything is planned for you? I was in the same boat when I found Gate 1 Travel, which offers escorted coach tours all over the world. If you're wondering whether this is the route for you, I did all the work to give you the inside scoop!

One of the best parts of traveling is getting to decide where you want to go and what you want to see. However, it can also be the most stressful part of traveling.

How do you make sure you see everything you want to see, get the right hotels, and eat at the right restaurants, all while staying on budget? One option I often think about to help alleviate that stress is to book a tour that covers all the nitty-gritty details!

When you're thinking about organized travel, you'll come across so many tours and guides that'll it'll hurt your brain.

One of those is Gate 1 Travel. So, the real question is does it beat out other options when booking tours?

I wanted to find out so that you'll have the essential info on its tours, prices, destinations, and more! This way you'll be making a decision with lots of valuable knowledge.

What Is Gate 1 Travel?

If you're not a fan of traveling with strangers, my advice is to go with a travel agency or plan your own trip. Don't go with Gate 1 Travel or other travel groups. Plan and go discover on your own instead with Pilot!

That's because you will definitely be exploring with a group if you book with with Gate 1 Travel.

Numbers fluctuate, but if you're keen on staying in a smaller group, be sure to check out Gate 1's Small Group tours . Also known as Discovery Tours, there are no more than 22 travelers on these trips, so you won't have to worry about there being too many people with you.

‍ Discovery Tours also allow you to get up close and personal with the country you're visiting in a way that often isn't possible in larger, escorted tours.

How Large Are Gate 1 Travel Groups?

If you're not a fan of traveling with strangers, my advice is to go with a travel agency or plan your own trip. Don't go with Gate 1 Travel.

Numbers fluctuate, but if you're keen on staying in a smaller group, be sure to check out Gate 1's  Small Group tours . Also known as Discovery Tours, there are no more than 22 travelers on these trips, so you won't have to worry about there being too many people with you. 

‍ Discovery Tours  also allow you to get up close and personal with the country you're visiting in a way that often isn't possible in larger, escorted tours. 

How Do I Book a Tour?

If you're interested in booking a tour with Gate 1 Travel, you'll first need to make an account.

You can head to the login page to do this. Once you've done that, you can start booking!

You'll select your tour region, followed by the country you want to visit and the tour that appeals most to you.

Choose your departure date, and decide whether you want flights included. You can then select those flights and any optional tours you may want to do during your trip.

What's Included in Gate 1 Travel Tours?

When booking a tour with Gate 1, you want to know what's included.

Something I liked to see is that every trip offers a "land only" and "air & land" price, so you can decide whether to have your flights included. Flights do only go to and from select cities, depending on your tour dates.

Escorted tours will include the following:

• Accommodation for the nights of the tour
• Hotel taxes and service charges 
• Transport between cities
• Certain meals (what's included will be outlined in the tour details)
• Sightseeing per the itinerary in an air-conditioned coach with a guide!

Not included is airfare for land-only trips, any visa-related fees, and optional extras you may decide to add to your tour.

Gate 1 Deals

Every traveler loves a good deal, and Gate 1 offers some great affordable vacations. It's actually one of the best bundle travel deal sites out there!

By heading to the company's Featured Specials page, you'll get to see Gate 1's flash deals, as well as any last-minute deals for upcoming departure dates. They also have a featured destination sale which will change from time to time.

To access the deals, you'll need to use the promo code listed on these pages, and then you're on your way to saving on your next trip!

From its website, you can also sign up to receive weekly deals via email. You never know what you'll get in your inbox!

How Do I Contact Gate 1 Travel Customer Service?

Whether you have a question or a complaint, it's never a bad idea to know how to contact customer service.

Gate 1 Travel is currently experiencing a high volume of inquiries, but you can still fill out a  form  via the website to send an online inquiry. 

If you're traveling soon, you can get ahold of the team by phone. The company has 24-hour assistance line can be reached in the US by calling 215-572-7676. 

Cancellation Policy

If you find you can no longer join your Gate 1 Travel tour, how can you cancel your trip?

Once you've made at least a partial payment on your trip, you have to submit a cancellation request in writing via the contact us page.

Cancellation fees will then be applied based on how much time remains before your trip and will be applied as a percentage of what has already been paid. 

Customer Reviews

Overall, travelers seem to be satisfied with Gate 1's services and its tours.

Many of the complaints speak to packages booked with flights and how flight cancellations or changes have upheaved entire trips. Others have also mentioned the mismatch of travel credits promised versus ones they actually offer.

Other travelers have complained about Gate 1's customer service as being difficult to reach and not entirely helpful. It sounds like quite a few individuals had a tough time getting a full refund for their trip, even with travel insurance, when booking with them.

Whether it's that explanations can't be given, refunds are not fully issued, or travelers are sent in circles, it sounds like customer service is a hit or miss.

Other complaints have also touched on the itineraries being too packed to truly enjoy what you're seeing or to feel rested enough for them. 

Is Gate 1 Travel Worth It?

After all my reading, my advice is to proceed with caution. Here's why.

My first impression when I got onto the website is that this is mainly targeting an older audience, with their branding outdated to the 2000s. That's not a judging criteria, but just a red flag in my opinion.

While Gate 1 Travel offers a lot of packaged tours, the volume of travelers who have had their trips impacted by flights booked through Gate 1 is concerning.

Instead, I would avoid the flight risks by opting for land-only tours. If you go this route, Gate 1 does offer tours all over the world, so it's a good place to at least browse through when you're trying to make a decision.

They also offer other kind of tours like independent vacations, European river cruises, and customized international vacation packages, but it's honestly not for me. The price is way too expensive and I can frankly plan it myself.

They also seem to charge a bit more than the actual ticket for many attractions, which to me seems like a dealbreaker unless it is actually hard for me to get the travel reservations myself.

In Gate 1 Travel's benefit, they sure do have tons of locations. From Paris to Peru, From Ecuador to Budapest, their tour packages extend to many destinations around the world. They also offer discount travel packages there and here, so that's something to consider for all you deal-seekers.

Keep in mind that some comments were made about the itineraries being a bit packed. So, if you're more of a relaxed traveler, I would be very careful going with Gate 1 Travel.

That being said, if you want to do and see as much as humanly possibly, Gate 1 could be the tour company for you!

If you like the idea of booking a tour but still aren't convinced that Gate 1 Travel is right for you, make sure to also check out companies like EF and Intrepid !

Our Rating: 3.1/5 

• Tours all over the world
• Small group options for more immersive experiences
• Includes accommodation, and guided coach tours
• Options for smaller group tours
• Flight cancellations can result in trip cancellation
• Poor customer service
• Some feedback of packed schedules

Gate 1 Travel FAQs:

Is gate 1 travel still in business.

Yes, very much so. They've been operating for over 40 years and continue to maintain its operations despite its outdated website design.

Is Gate 1 Travel better than Trafalgar Tours?

They both offer the same comparable luxury comfort tours, so it's hard to say. I'd give Trafalgar the edge since they have more experience under their belt, but individual experiences will vary. Read our Trafalgar Tours Review for more detail!

Is Gate 1 Travel an American Company?

Yes, they're an American owned and run company based in Fort Washington, PA!

Who is the founder of Gate 1?

Dani Pipano is Gate 1 Travel's founder.

Ready to Get Traveling?

Whether you opt for a Gate 1 Travel tour, use another company, or decide to freestyle your next adventure, we want to make sure that you have the best time.

Use Pilot so you can keep all the different elements of your travels in one place and easily access them all. Plan your dream vacation today with Pilot!

Disclosure : Pilot is supported by our community. We may earn a small commission fee with affiliate links on our website. All reviews and recommendations are independent and do not reflect the official view of Pilot.

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5 Bucket List Europe Trips to Take With Gate 1 Travel

Caroline Morse Teel

Caroline Morse Teel is the Managing Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Follow her on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline .

Caroline joined Boston-based SmarterTravel in 2011 after living in Ireland, London, and Manhattan. She's traveled to all seven continents, jumped out of planes, and bungeed off bridges in the pursuit of a good story. She loves exploring off-the-beaten path destinations, anything outdoorsy, and all things adventure.

Her stories have also appeared online at USA Today, Business Insider, Huffington Post, Yahoo, Boston.com, TripAdvisor, Buzzfeed, Jetsetter, Oyster, Airfarewatchdog, and others.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "Earplugs. A good pair has saved my sleep and sanity many times!"

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro.

Travel Motto : "Don't be boring."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "Aisle (when the first class private suite isn't available)."

E-mail her at [email protected] .

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Editors Note: This story is sponsored by Gate 1 Travel.

There’s something truly magical about Europe that puts it at the top of most travelers’ bucket lists. From the ancient ruins of Athens and Rome to the soaring peaks of the Swiss Alps, Europe offers an enticing mix of world-class cuisine, ancient history, and stunning scenery unlike anywhere else.

Whether you want to explore one country in depth or see as many new destinations as possible, there’s no better way to make the most of your time on the continent than booking an expertly planned tour with Gate 1 Travel . For over 40 years, Gate 1 Travel has been crafting unforgettable European journeys, earning a reputation for exceptional value, incredible destinations, and first-class personal service. 

When you take a tour with Gate 1 Travel, you don’t have to spend hours researching the best hotels, sights, and restaurants—the itinerary is carefully curated for you, so you can spend your trip enjoying Europe rather than stressing over the logistics. 

Whether you’re savoring the flavors of Spain and Portugal, tracing Central Europe’s historic capitals, getting inspired by Italy’s Renaissance treasures, uncovering the natural wonders of Croatia and Slovenia, or basking in the Alpine glories of Germany, Switzerland, and Austria, these Gate 1 Travel tours are the best way to see Europe. Which one will you cross off your bucket list next?

15-Day Classic Spain & Portugal

If you’re seeking sunshine, head to southern Europe on Gate 1 Travel’s 15-Day Classic Spain & Portugal tour. This two-week trip kicks off in Lisbon, Portugal’s vibrant capital city, where you’ll explore historic gems like the Belem Tower and the UNESCO-listed Jeronimos Monastery. From here, you’ll embark on an unforgettable adventure through Spain and Portugal’s most captivating destinations, including Seville, Costa del Sol, Granada, Madrid, and Barcelona.

Highlights include watching a flamenco show in Seville (the birthplace of this passionate dance), marveling at the iconic Rock of Gibraltar, and seeing the legendary windmills of La Mancha, Don Quixote’s homeland. 

Your grand finale awaits in Barcelona, where the architectural marvel of La Sagrada Familia will leave you breathless.

11-Day Crown of Central Europe

Experience the cultural treasures of some of Europe’s most iconic cities on Gate 1 Travel’s 11-Day Crown of Central Europe tour, which visits Prague, Munich, Salzburg, Vienna, and Budapest. 

Your adventure begins in Prague’s Lesser Town and Old Town, where a walking tour winds you through charming streets and alleyways, showcasing the city’s picturesque architecture. In Munich, witness the whimsical dance of the famous Glockenspiel clock figurines as they chime the hour. For “Sound of Music” enthusiasts, Salzburg might be the tour’s crown jewel, offering a chance to explore filming locations from the beloved movie.

Austria’s Lake District is an underrated European gem for nature lovers and it’s your next stop on this adventure. Here, 76 lakes shimmer amidst breathtaking landscapes. Set sail on a tranquil cruise from the quaint village of St. Wolfgang, gliding past picturesque hamlets and towering peaks.

After soaking in the stunning natural beauty, you’ll head to historic Vienna. Here, you’ll tour the lavish Schonbrunn Palace and its sprawling gardens, leaving you with a lasting impression of Central European grandeur.

Your grand finale awaits in Budapest, where you’ll have time for a comprehensive guided tour and the opportunity to wander and discover the city’s hidden alleyways and charms on your own. 

Planning a Trip to Europe: Your 10-Step Guide

9-Day Enchanting Italy

Could any European bucket list be considered complete without a visit to Italy? Gate 1 Travel’s streamlined 9-Day Enchanting Italy tour offers an unforgettable taste of the country’s most famous cities and sights. The trip begins in Venice, where you’ll have plenty of time to explore this unique island city with its winding canals and alleyways. Visit a glassblowing factory on Murano Island and take a guided walking tour of the city’s top sights, such as St. Mark’s Square and the Doge’s Palace. 

The journey continues through the Tuscan countryside, stopping for a wine tasting at a local farm. Check the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa off your bucket list before continuing to Florence, where art lovers will be in absolute heaven delving into the Uffizi Gallery’s treasure trove of iconic works. Of course, no Tuscan visit would be complete without reveling in the region’s famous wines and fare in an authentic countryside vineyard and rustic family farm.

Finally, stop in the hill town of Assisi to view the famous Basilica of St. Francis. Then, it’s on to Rome to tour the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica and explore ancient Roman sites like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Arch of Constantine. 

10 Day Croatia & Slovenia

Some of Europe’s most underrated spots and hidden gems await on Gate 1 Travel’s 10-Day Croatia & Slovenia tour. This trip jumps off in the historic Croatian capital of Zagreb, where the charming cobblestoned streets entice visitors into leisurely strolls punctuated with stops at the city’s lively cafes and restaurants. 

Crossing into Slovenia, you’ll be mesmerized by the stunning scenery of Lake Bled’s emerald waters dotted with the fairytale-like island church. In the lively capital of Ljubljana, you can indulge in regional culinary specialties and wines at the open-air markets and trendy restaurants.

From there, you’ll be transported to a natural wonderland back in Croatia at Plitvice Lakes National Park, where thundering waterfalls and lush hiking trails connect 16 terraced turquoise lakes. The adventure culminates on the Adriatic coast, where you’ll soak up the sun and old-world charms of Split and Dubrovnik.      

11-Day Germany, Switzerland & Austria

The hit list of Central European destinations on Gate 1 Travel’s 11-Day Germany, Switzerland & Austria tour begins in Mainz, a medieval city on the Rhine. A leisurely cruise down the river, gliding past hilltop castles, terraced vineyards, and quaint villages, will give you a unique vantage point of the area. 

Switch to a comfortable bus for an equally scenic drive through the Black Forest region en route to Switzerland. There, you’ll spend two relaxing nights in the charming lakeside city of Lucerne, home to iconic attractions like the Chapel Bridge and Mt. Pilatus. You can indulge in iconic Swiss specialties like fondue, chocolate, and cheeses while soaking up the mesmerizing mountain panoramas. 

Then, crisscross back into Germany, where you’ll have a chance to tour the real-life inspiration for Disney’s Sleeping Beauty castle—the magnificent, turreted Neuschwanstein Castle, set against the serene Bavarian Alps.

Over the next few days, you’ll explore the Austrian Alps and enjoy the baroque splendor of cities like Innsbruck, Salzburg, and Vienna.

The journey ends in Germany, where you’ll have plenty of time to explore the lively city of Munich (and sip a stein at one of the famous beer halls to toast your amazing adventure).

What’s Included?

Gate 1 Travel’s group tours include flights from select departure cities, accommodations, meals and entrance fees as detailed in the itinerary, an English-speaking tour manager, and services of local guides.

This story is sponsored by Gate 1 Travel.  

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Group Travel with Gate 1 Travel Frequently Asked Questions

By: Author Teacher Catalina

Posted on Last updated: July 27, 2023

Categories Gate 1 , Travel Blog

** This is NOT a sponsored post. All of the information reflects our own feelings and experiences with Gate 1 Travel **

What is Gate 1 Travel Group?

Gate 1 Travel is a travel company specializing in group tours worldwide. They have been in business for over 40 years. 

How many people are on Gate 1 Travel Tours?

Gate 1 Travel classic tours can have up to 40 people. If you prefer smaller groups, you can book a Gate 1 Small Group Discovery Tour with up to 22 people. 

On our last Gate 1 Travel to Ecuador , we had 37 people, including us. This was a great size to be able to meet lots of like-minded people that had similar interests to us. By the end of the trip, we created long-lasting friendships and are planning future trips together. 

Who is Gate 1 Travel for?

Gate 1 Travel  is great for Families, Seniors, Solo Travelers, and pretty much anyone who enjoys exploring the world! Just remember that many tours require hikes, a lot of walking, and some extraneous activities. Most tours have Minimum age Requirements.

I’ve traveled with Gate 1 Travel, loved the experience, and booked a second one. They offer a variety of travel styles to accommodate all types of travelers, and they have a team of experienced travel professionals who are dedicated to helping you plan your vacation.

My first trip with Gate 1 was an escorted tour of Ecuador . I was traveling with my family, and we were all first-time travelers to Ecuador. We were a little nervous about going on an escorted tour, but we were so glad we did. Our tour guide was amazing; she took care of all the details, so we could relax and enjoy our vacation. We visited many cities and towns and important attractions. For the full list, click here .

Why travel with Gate 1 Travel?

Gate 1 Travel is a worry-free travel experience. Gate 1 allows travelers to immerse in the culture, experience the land, and live out travel experiences that create memories that will last a lifetime. 

How are the hotels when booking through Gate 1 Travel?

Gate 1 Travel hand-picks its hotels to meet its standards to satisfy the needs and desires of its travelers. Each hotel is unique and portrays the special characteristics of the country or region. 

In our experience, we were blown away by the hotels we stayed at while traveling through Ecuador . Each hotel was chosen because of its location, quality, and character. 

Transportation on Gate 1 Trave l

Gate 1 Travel provides motor coach buses to transport people from location to location. The drivers are incredibly experienced and professional. They make you feel safe even when driving near a massive cliff or super tight spots in city centers. 

During our trip to Ecuador , our driver, Roque, impressed us with his incredible navigation skills through the smallest allies and tiniest roads that looked like they could only fit a bike. Roque was able to fit an entire bus that carried 40 people. 

Our driver also kept the bus clean, helped sanitize our hands upon re-entry to the bus, provided water, and was super friendly and made you feel welcome. 

Meals with Gate 1 Trav el

Gate 1 Travel provides many high-quality meals when you take one of their tours. 

Breakfast generally takes place at the hotel you are staying in, and it could be buffet style or served as individual plates. Options may vary from country to county and hotel to hotel. 

In our experience, the buffets were fabulous for breakfast as they provided various options, allowing us to eat comfort foods while also trying some exotic choices of the region. Coffee, tea, and other beverages were always available. We enjoyed delicious fresh fruit juices at every hotel during our last trip with Gate 1 to Ecuador . 

Lunch. Some lunches are included with your Gate 1 tour, but sometimes you may also have the opportunity to try something at a local restaurant. Your tour guide will provide some on-point recommendations of places they like. We were happily satisfied with our tour guide choices. 

The lunches that Gate 1 provided were served at beautiful restaurants throughout the country. Gate 1 took the time to carefully vet every restaurant to provide tasty and high-quality lunches for all participants. 

When we visited Ecuador with Gate 1, we were given choices on the days lunch was included. We found this very helpful because our tour group had different dietary restrictions such as vegetarianism, no fish, only chicken, multiple allergies, etc. Gate 1 was able to accommodate all of these needs. 

Dinner. Most dinners are included in your Gate 1 tour. 

When we visited Ecuador , only the first day’s dinner was not included because this was an arrival day, and part of the group arrived after dinner. From then on, dinners were served at the hotel we were staying at. Remember that the hotels were like out of a storybook, so the delicious food and setting provided a fantastic dining experience. We were also offered choices for dinner to accommodate all tastes and preferences. We found a variety of foods that included known dishes as well as local specialties. 

During our trip to Ecuador , we also were provided many “technical stops” to allow people to use public restrooms and buy snacks at gas stations, local markets, and street stands. In addition, our tour guide provided a little treat most days for us to taste local specialties. 

Activities with Gate 1 Travel

A wonderful thing about Gate 1 Travel is that most activities are already included in the itinerary and price. In addition, you can also add some optional tours and activities depending on your wants, needs, and interests. 

During our trip to Ecuador , we added a neck and back massage at the Papallacta Hot Springs Spa and a Canopy Adventure in the Amazon to pump adrenaline while immersed in the rainforest. 

Gate 1 Travel for families and children

Yes! Gate 1 Travel is a fantastic way for families to travel. Remember that travelers have some age restrictions and that most of the group will be  40 and above. 

According to Gate 1, All children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Minimum age for children on escorted tours for Gate 1 including Deluxe tours is 8. Minimum age on Discovery Tours is 12. Minimum age on Walking Tours is 16. Minimum age for European River Cruise programs is 16. Minimum age for game drives in Kruger National Park (South Africa) is 12. Minimum age for Rwanda and Uganda programs is 15. Minimum age for Antarctica programs is 12. Minimum age for independent Galapagos programs is 8. Discounts for children sharing a room as third may apply to children under 12. Most hotels do not permit children under 18 to occupy a room without an adult. Accompanying adults are responsible for the safety of their children including to provide any necessary safety equipment (such as infant/child seats) where appropriate.

During our trip to Ecuador , we traveled with our 11-year-old son. He was the group’s only child but thoroughly enjoyed the experience. The long bus rides sometimes allowed him to catch up on sleep or relax before the next activity. We found this to be very helpful. The itinerary for Ecuador was very packed, and he felt something was going on constantly. The choices in food were perfect for him, and the variety of activities kept him happily engaged. 

Remember that you will be sharing a coach bus with fellow travelers, so children need to be prepared and know how to behave with other adults. 

Most days had early wake-ups but also early bedtimes, allowing us to get plenty of sleep and avoid moody moments due to lack of rest. 

Gate 1 Travel for solo travelers

Gate 1 Travel is a perfect way for solo travelers to meet like-minded individuals while exploring the world. 

During our last Gate 1 trip to Ecuador ,  there were several solo travelers and experienced Gate 1 travelers with many more planned trips. 

Gate 1 Travel for seniors

Yes! Gate 1 Travel is for seniors too! Just remember, many tours include hikes, a lot of walking, and some extraneous activities. 

What to pack for a Gate 1 Trip ?

What to pack for your Gate 1 Travel Trip will depend on the location you are visiting. Some suggestions include sunscreen, bug spray, sunglasses, raincoats, comfortable shoes, etc. 

During our trip to Ecuador , we appreciated having packed our hiking boots, easy dry pants for the Amazon, layers for the change in altitude, a bathing suit for the Amazon, a hat for the intense sun, sunglasses, and a raincoat for unexpected rain.

What is the average age of Gate 1 Travelers?

The average age of travelers on Gate 1 tours depends mainly on the destination. The more active vacations, especially in South America, have a younger average audience, while city tours in Europe seem to have an older average audience. 

During our trip to Ecuador , the youngest person in our group was 11, and the oldest was 75 years old. The average age was between 40-60 years old. 

Are kids allowed on Gate 1 Tra vel ?

Yes! Kids are allowed on Gate 1 Travel !

Are the hotels air-conditioned with Gate 1 Travel?

Hotels with air conditioning vary by location. In our experience, city hotels tend to have air conditioning, while rural hotels may not. 

During our trip to Ecuador , only our hotel in Quito (the capital) had AC. Having said that, many hotels in South America do not have air conditioning (not just Gate 1 choices but most hotels in these countries). Remember that we stayed at hotels at the top of the mountains and in the middle of the Amazon rainforest. None of them had AC; however, they all had either fireplace to keep us warm or fans to keep us cool. In the Amazon, the hotels had screened rooms preventing bugs from getting in. 

All in all, we slept wonderfully every single night of the trip. 

Will my hotel have Wi-fi during Gate 1 Travel tours?

Most hotels during Gate 1 tours have Wi-Fi. In our experience, some hotels have Wi-Fi in the rooms, while others only have Wi-Fi in common areas. 

Can I get laundry done at the hotels on a Gate 1 Travel?

Yes! Most hotels on Gate 1 tours offer a laundry service for an extra fee. We recommend checking the hotel website before you go so you can plan where to do your laundry. I recommend doing laundry on trips 8 days or longer to be able to pack lighter. 

What is the check-in procedure at Gate 1 hotels?

Gate 1 Travel has mastered the check-in procedures for large groups in their hotels. In our experience, everything was pre-filled, and an envelope with keys and pertinent information was available to each group. 

The check-in procedures took 5-10 minutes for the entire group. Keep in mind our group in Ecuador was 37 people. We were thoroughly impressed at how Gate 1 plans ahead and makes checking in to every hotel a smooth experience. This allows travelers to enjoy every minute at each location.  

How to book a Vacation with Gate 1 Travel?

• Go to the Gate 1 Travel website for available trips, dates, and prices. https://www.gate1travel.com/
• Write down the name of the itinerary you are interested in booking.
• Call the Gate 1 Travel booking department at 1-215-572-7676 (the # is also available on the website).
• To receive a discount on your vacation, let them know that we referred you. You can provide my husband’s name and Account ID. His name is: Bas Nijmeijer, and the account ID is: 8585461 .
• Get excited and begin counting down.
• We may see you around 🙂
• Tag me on Instagram on your photos and videos! I would love to see your adventures!

What happens on day 1 of my trip with Gate 1?

Day 1 is your traveling day; in most cases, there is not much going on. Depending on the location, some itineraries will have a welcome dinner to introduce the tour manager and everyone in the group. 

What happens on day 2 of my trip with Gate 1 Travel?

Day 2 with Gate 1 generally starts with a welcome briefing. This short meeting allows travelers to introduce themselves and the tour manager to set ground rules for a successful trip. 

In our experience in Ecuador , Giovanna, our tour manager, explained the expectations (being on time every day) and our plans for the day, and we got a chance to meet everyone in the group. 

Can I book flights through Gate 1 Travel?

Yes! You can book your flights through Gate 1 Travel from most airports; however, you will incur extra fees if you don’t fly from their pre-selected departure city. 

In our experience from talking to other Gate 1 travelers, we found that most prefer to book Gate 1 Land only and buy their own flights. This also allows them to select flights that suit their schedule and preferences.  

Can I book nights before and after my trip with Gate 1 trip?

Yes, you can book nights before and after your trip with Gate 1 Travel . You can add those nights during your booking process. 

How much are Gate 1 travel  Deposits, and when is the full payment due?

Gate 1 deposits vary depending on the destination. A non-refundable deposit is due at the time of reservation. All reservations (except where specified): $300 per person. Reservations with Antarctica, Armenia, Australia**, Galapagos cruises, Georgia, Greenland, New Zealand, or Norway cruises: $500 per person. Reservations with Uganda: $700 per person. Reservations with Rwanda: $1500 per person. 

Full payment for Gate 1 trips is due 90 days before departure. Reservations with cruises to Antarctica, Greenland or Galapagos: 120 days before departure

Does Gate 1 Travel do Airport Transfers?

Gate 1 Travel can provide all travelers with airport transfers. You can book transfers to and from the airport during the booking process. This service requires an additional fee. 

In our experience, the transfer is definitely worth it. Once we exited immigration and customs, our tour manager awaited us, and we felt that the Gate 1 experience began there. 

What are optional experiences with Gate 1 tours?

Most Gate 1 tours provide optional experiences you can book during your stay. These have an additional cost but may enhance your vacation. 

In our experience, we thoroughly enjoyed the optional experiences we booked. They are worth the price, and in most cases, if not booked in advance, you may not be able to book them in person. 

How can I book optional experiences with Gate 1 Travel?

Optional experiences with Gate 1 Travel can be scheduled through the booking process of your vacation. You can also add them before you go. Be sure to read each selection and not book overlapping tours. 

How much travel money should I plan to bring on Gate 1 tours? 

How much travel money you bring on Gate 1 tours depends primarily on your destination and spending habits. 

In our experience in Ecuador , we brought around $300 USD in small bills because Ecuador uses the U.S. dollar. This was enough for the meals not included and a little shopping at stores and markets.

Are there any Di scounts for Gate 1 Tours?

If you are a first-time traveler with Gate 1 , you can get a discount by simply providing my husband’s name and account ID. His name is: Bas Nijmeijer, and the account ID is: 8585461

In addition, we recommend signing up for the Gate 1 travel newsletter. Every week they will email you the deals they have.  

What can I bring on the coach bus with me on a Gate 1 travel tour?

When traveling with Gate 1 Travel , your luggage will be stored in the belly of the bus; however, you may bring a small carry-on, backpack, or personal item. 

In our experience, the coach bus had plenty of storage for everyone to bring what they needed. 

Will I have free time during Gate 1 tours?

Although most Gate 1 tours are carefully planned, Gate 1 has scheduled some free time at different locations. 

During our trip to Ecuador with Gate 1, we had free time in Quito to explore the San Francisco Plaza, Otavalo to explore the market, and Baños to explore the surrounding areas. We also had time to enjoy the resort during our visit to the Amazon. 

Do Gate 1 Travel coach buses operate seat rotation?

Yes! Gate 1 Travel coach bus operates seat rotation to allow all travelers to experience country views from different angles. Most importantly, everyone has a chance to sit up front. 

We found this to be refreshing and equitable amongst all travelers. The night before, our tour manager would pass the seating chart, and we could take a photo. In addition, the seating chart was readily available at the front of the bus. 

Is porterage included in Gate 1 Trips?

Porterage is included throughout your Gate 1 trip for your ease and comfort. You only have to bring your hand luggage or personal item daily on and off the bus coach. Your luggage will be delivered to your room upon arrival at each hotel. Every morning, you will be given a time to set your luggage right outside of your door for staff to be able to load it onto the bus. 

Your Tour Manager will provide you with a Gate 1 luggage tag, which helps with identification and security.