fbpx
 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

You Have Questions? We Have Answers…

 

Here we detail some frequently asked questions about our Getaways

GENERAL QUESTIONS

WHY JOIN A TRAVEL GIRLS GETAWAY?

There are lots of retreats and tour companies out there, so why join one of our trips? Well, we think that what we offer is unique. Each trip we create, even when working with a local country expert, is bespoke and designed for Travel Girls Getaways with our female audience in mind. We manage every element of the trip from the moment we begin the booking process to ensure a seamless experience for each guest.

Above all of that we believe the reason you should join one of our trips is because of the other women who attend. We have had amazing groups of intelligent, driven and inspirational women join our trips, and whilst they learn a lot from us they also learn a lot from one another and leave having creating strong and lasting friendships!

CAN I COME SOLO?

Absolutely! Our trips are an opportunity to connect with a group of women from all over the world and make new and lasting friendships. The majority of our retreat guests come solo.

DO YOU CATER FOR DIETARY REQUIREMENTS?

Once your place is booked we will send out a guest information form requesting information such as dietary requirements. Depending on the destination we will advise you about meals. In most destinations we have a mix of meals at our accommodation and out in restaurants, and we aim to cater for all dietary requirements.

WHAT DO I NEED TO BRING?

Once you have booked your spot we will send you a list of suggested things to bring with you to on a getaway and advise you what will be provided at the accommodation.

DO I NEED TO ARRANGE TRAVEL INSURANCE?

Yes. You are responsible for obtaining your own travel insurance cover. We recommend and require that you purchase travel insurance at the point of  booking your spot on a Travel Girls Getaway. This is in order that you are insured should unforeseen circumstances prevent you from attending the trip.

One option is World Nomads. However, it is your responsibility to research travel insurance companies in your location and select an insurer that suits your needs and coverage requirements.

WHERE CAN I READ YOUR TERMS & CONDITIONS?

Click the link to read our Terms & Conditions

DO YOU HAVE VIDEOS FROM PAST TRIPS?

Yes, you can view videos from past trips here

WHERE CAN I FIND TESTIMONIALS?

Yes we have video and written testimonials from past trips here

DO I NEED TO HAVE A BLOG TO JOIN A GETAWAY?

You don’t have to have a blog or be planning to start one when you join our getaways. Our trips are open to everyone and we do not require you to have a blog or social media presence to attend.

Each of our getaways has a different trip style, some include workshops and educational element and others are more active outdoors trip with no classroom time. The Bali Retreat includes workshops on blogging, growing your social presence, marketing, branding and much more. All of the lessons are relevant if you want to start a blog, want to refresh your existing blog and take it to the next level or if you plan to start a business.

For each trip you can see a sample itinerary which will give you a good idea of what to expect on the trip.

ARE YOUR TRIPS ALL ABOUT TAKING PHOTOS?

No! Unless its a photography tour then our trips are not just about posing for photos. We do know that many of our guests have the goal of creating content for their own social media and blog, (especially on our Blogger Retreats) so photography is a larger part of those trips. But we do encourage everyone to enjoy the places we are visiting and the people they are visiting with rather than just seeing it through the lens of a camera.

We also want the girls who join to feel comfortable, happy and above all relaxed on our trips. You may see a few bikini shots in our photos (of course, when we take you to some amazing beaches!), but these are usually fun moments and not posed shoots.

WHEN WILL DATES BE ANNOUNCED FOR ALL TRIPS?

Our expression of interest form is a way for us to see what destinations and trip types are popular with our audience. If we receive enough interest for a specific trip, then we will move forward planning that trip. Typically we look to open bookings for a trip around 6-9months in advance.

IS THERE MINIMUM GROUP SIZE?

Minimum group sizes apply for us to run certain trips. Please see FAQs for specific details applicable to each trip.

WHAT IS THE GROUP AGE RANGE?

We do not have a specific age range on our trips and the age group may vary dependent on the specific trip. However, we tend to find that guests are typically in their late twenties and thirties. And on some trips we have welcomed women in their 40’s and 50’s. The main thing to note is that we have a conversation with all our applicants to make sure we are absolutely the right trip for them and that they will fit with the group of guests.

PAYMENT QUESTIONS

WHEN IS PAYMENT DUE?

Once your application is received and your booking confirmed a non-refundable deposit (amount dependent on specific trip) is due immediately to secure your place on the retreat. The balance of the payment is typically due 3 months before the retreat start date.

You can see specific details for the payment schedule on the FAQ’s for each trip and we will also confirm this payment schedule when you book your place.

WHAT METHOD OF PAYMENT IS AVAILABLE?

Once your booking is confirmed we will send you a link to our secure payment page to make the first payment for the deposit. We will then send you a reminder and payment link when the balance is due. You can use credit card or debit cards to make the payment.

Upon request you can make a direct bank transfer or pay via PayPal.

In some cases, payment will be made via a partner company who are managing the trip. This will be detailed on the FAQ’s of the specific trip and we will also confirm this to you when you are booking your spot.

DO YOU OFFER PAYMENT PLANS?

At present we do not offer any payment plans for our trips or retreats.

BALI RETREAT QUESTIONS

HOW MUCH FREE TIME IS THERE?

We allow for two afternoons of free time in the itinerary that you can use to relax at the villa, go out to explore or go shopping. However, all activities and workshops in the itinerary are optional so you are welcome to skip something in favour of some extra pool time!

ARE THERE SINGLE OCCUPANCY ROOMS?

All rooms are shared occupancy with one other female guest. Each room has two beds, either two single beds or one double and one single bed. We do not have single occupancy rooms available at the villa.

Paid room upgrades to a single room may be made available closer to the retreat date if the there are last minute cancellations.

DO I NEED TO HAVE A BLOG TO JOIN?

You don’t have to have a blog or be planning to start one when you join the retreat. The Bali Retreat includes workshops on blogging, growing your social presence, marketing, branding and much more. All of the lessons are relevant if you want to start a blog, want to refresh your existing blog and take it to the next level or if you plan to start a business.

The majority of the curriculum is relevant if you are planning to start your own business as we cover branding, marketing, why a blog is important for a business, building your email list and other topics relevant for entrepreneurs.

HOW MANY HOURS OF WORKSHOPS?

We have approximately 20+ hours of formal workshops. Workshops typically begin around 8am and we work though until lunch with some breaks in between.

IS THERE PRE-WORK BEFORE THE RETREAT?

Yes, we will send you a Blog Business Planning document to complete ahead of the retreat. The business planning document is to get you thinking about your business and blog before you arrive at the retreat.

WHAT IS THE WORKSHOP STYLE?

The business and blogging curriculum that we have created is extensive and there is a lot to fit in in just a week! As such, our workshops are lecture style with opportunity for the group to discuss ideas and ask questions throughout.

Together with a copy of our 250+ page presentation, we will provide you with a set of 15 comprehensive eBooks which have detailed notes, tasks and actions for you to complete after the retreat.

WHAT MATERIALS ARE PROVIDED TO ACCOMPANY THE WORKSHOPS?

Prior to the retreat we will send you a Blogger Business Plan Document to complete in advance.

On day 1 we will give you access to a folder of 15+ comprehensive eBooks written by Becky van Dijk and Vanessa Rivers that include detailed notes on each of the topics, resources and actions for you to complete after the retreat.

At the end of the retreat we will share a copy of the presentation used during the retreat which includes over 260 pages of information and resources.

We can provide you  with more information on the topics covered in the workshops, the eBooks and the learning you can expect on the retreat when we have a phone call to confirm your place on the retreat.

DO I NEED A VISA FOR BALI?

A visa is required to travel to Bali. It is your responsibility to check the visa requirements based on your country of original / nationality and to obtain the correct visa for your trip. Bali does have a visa on arrival for most visitors to the country staying less than 30 days and you need a valid passport with more than 6 months to expiry.

WHEN IS PAYMENT DUE?

Once your application is received and your booking confirmed a non-refundable deposit of USD 750 is due immediately to secure your place on the retreat. The balance of the payment is due 3 months before the retreat start date.

IS THERE A MINIMUM GUEST NUMBER?

Yes. We operate a minimum of 8 guests per week. As per our terms & conditions if the running of the trip is not deemed financially viable we reserve the right to cancel the retreat. In this situation you will be refunded all monies paid to We Are Travel Girls.

WHAT METHOD OF PAYMENT IS AVAILABLE?

Once your booking is confirmed we will send you a link to our secure payment page to make the first payment for the deposit. We will then send you a reminder and payment link when the balance is due. You can use credit card or debit cards to make the payment.

Upon request you can make a direct bank transfer or pay via PayPal. For payments via bank transfer, we offer a US $50 discount to the retreat price.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN PRICING OPTIONS?

Large Rooms:

There are 10 places available on the retreat at US $3,000. These places are all based on shared occupancy with one other retreat guest in a large room at the villa.

Small Room:

There are 2 places available on the retreat at US $2,800. These places are based based on shared occupancy with one other retreat guest in a small room at the villa.

The small room is the size of a normal European hotel room, with twin bed, walk in closet, bathroom and small terrace. The price is different for this room, as the room is smaller than all the large rooms at the villa.

WHAT IS THE EARLY BIRD PERIOD?

The early bird period applies to all bookings that are confirmed and the retreat deposit paid in full prior to the 1st April 2018. Early bird booking price only applies to confirmed bookings with deposit paid by 1st April 2018, not to applications received prior to this date without deposit paid.

DO I NEED TO PURCHASE TRAVEL INSURANCE?

Yes. You are responsible for obtaining your own travel insurance cover. We recommend and require that you purchase travel insurance at the point of  booking your spot on a Travel Girls Getaway. This is in order that you are insured should unforeseen circumstances prevent you from attending the trip.

One option is World Nomads. However, it is your responsibility to research travel insurance companies in your location and select an insurer that suits your needs and coverage requirements.

DO YOU CATER FOR DIETARY REQUIREMENTS?

Once your place is booked we will send out a guest information form requesting information such as dietary requirements. The chef will look to accommodate all dietary requirements for meals at the villa and meals at restaurants around Bali that we will visit typically have vegan, vegetarian options.

WHAT IS THE ACTIVITY LEVEL?

This is a very active retreat overall with a packed itinerary. However, the activities themselves are not strenuous and we have drivers throughout who take us between the villa, restaurants and to our activities.

CAN I COME SOLO?

Absolutely! The retreat is an opportunity to connect with a group of women from all over the world and make new and lasting friendships. The majority of our retreat guests come solo.

WHAT DO I NEED TO BRING?

Once you have booked your spot we will send you a list of suggested things to bring with you to the retreat, as well as whats available at the villa, such as hairdryers etc.

MALAWI RETREAT QUESTIONS

WHO IS THE RESPONSIBLE SAFARI COMPANY?

RSC is a family run Educational, Experiential & Philanthropic Travel company. Operating exclusively in Malawi, RSC provides specialised planning and logistical support for School Expeditions, University Field Trips, Charity & Adventure Challenges, Donor and CSR Groups as well as Independent Travellers. Concentrating around tailored Educational Workshops & Challenge Events, we work in partnership with inspiring Community Initiatives offering immersive learning opportunities for students & businesses to gain an insight into key global challenges facing rural communities in Africa.

WHEN IS PAYMENT DUE?

Once your application is received and your booking confirmed a non-refundable deposit of 20% of the trip cost is due immediately to secure your place on the trip. The balance of the payment is due 3 months before the trip start date.

WHAT METHOD OF PAYMENT IS AVAILABLE?

Once your booking is confirmed your deposit payment and full balance payment invoice will be co-ordinated by Responsible Safari Company.

CAN I USE ANY DISCOUNT VOUCHERS?

Discount vouchers are not valid for this expedition as we are working in collaboration with a partner company who arrange and customise the trip for Travel Girls Getaways.

DO YOU CATER FOR DIETARY REQUIREMENTS?

Once your place is booked you can notify us of dietary requirements which we will seek to accommodate throughout the trip.

WHAT IS THE ACTIVITY LEVEL?

The trip will be active exploring Malawi. We will be hiking and going on safaris during the trip. You can also participate in other optional activities such as kayaking, diving (not included in price) and snorkelling.

CAN I COME SOLO?

Absolutely! The expedition is an opportunity to connect with a group of women from all over the world and make new and lasting friendships. The majority of our guests come solo on our trips.

WHAT DO I NEED TO BRING?

Once you have booked your spot we will send you a list of suggested things to bring with you to Malawi.

WHAT CAN WE EXPECT TO SEE ON SAFARI?

Of course there are no guarantees of what you will see on a safari! Liwonde National Park is famed for it’s large population of Elephant, Buffalo and Hippo. The park recently introduced Rhino, Lion & Cheetah so there are chances of seeing these as well. There are also lots of plains game including Antelope, Zebra, Impala & Waterbuck.

WHAT IS THE BOOKING PROCESS

Once you have completed your application for the trip, we will respond to you within 48hrs to confirm we have received your application. On this email we will copy Kate and Dom Webb of The Responsible Safari who will contact you to arrange a phone call to discuss the trip and explain the itinerary and the work we will be doing with the community.

This trip is in collaboration with The Responsible Safari and as such the booking process will be run by them. The process is outlined below:

1. Once you confirm you want to proceed to booking in writing, an email is sent out with log-in details for the Responsible Safari Client Zone with full itinerary details and an Invoice request for 20% deposit payment.
2. Once the deposit is received, the Booking Form & Travel Pack are both sent out (via email) by Responsible Safari.
3. The Responsible Safari team are available at any time for any questions or queries in the run up to the travel date. Email contacts are [email protected] and [email protected]. In addition, you can contact Becky and Vanessa at any time by emailing [email protected].
4. Balance Payment is required 3 months prior to departure date.

ARE THERE SINGLE OCCUPANCY ROOMS?

All rooms are shared occupancy with one other female guest.

HOW MUCH TIME WILL BE SPENT WITH THE COMMUNITY?

We will spend 1.5 days with the community in the villages.

CAN I STAY LONGER?

The Responsible Safari can arrange extra days in Malawi. Perhaps you would like to stay an extra day or two on Mumbo Island? Or explore the north of the country? Or take part in some more community work? You can discuss options with the team at The Responsible Safari when you are booking your place on the trip.

DO I NEED TO PURCHASE TRAVEL INSURANCE?

Yes. You are responsible for obtaining your own travel insurance cover. We recommend and require that you purchase travel insurance at the point of  booking your spot on a Travel Girls Getaway. This is in order that you are insured should unforeseen circumstances prevent you from attending the trip.

One option is World Nomads. However, it is your responsibility to research travel insurance companies in your location and select an insurer that suits your needs and coverage requirements.

WHAT INSURANCES DOES RSC HAVE?
  • RSC holds comprehensive International Public Liability cover in both Africa & UK.
  • International Passenger Liability on our 23 seater bus. Comprehensive Air
  • Evacuation cover through Global Rescue.
  • RSC are in the process of becoming ABTA registered and fully bonded in the UK (April 2017)
WHAT SUPPORT WILL WE HAVE IN MALAWI
  • RSC is based in Malawi and offers 24 hr support. Their British in country manager lives in Blantyre and is in contact with every group upon arrival and throughout your time in Malawi.
  • A trained local RSC guide will be with the group every step of the way. The guides have basic first aid training- updated annually.
  • All RSC Vehicles have seat belts and are fully insured.
WHAT EXPERIENCE DOES RSC HAVE IN MALAWI?

RSC has been operating in Malawi for 9 years and has worked with over 7,500 people visiting the country.

IS THERE A MINIMUM GROUP SIZE

Yes, there is a minimum group size. We require a minimum of 10 confirmed participants to run the trip. As per our terms & conditions if the running of the trip is not deemed financially viable we reserve the right to cancel the trip. In this situation you will be refunded all monies paid to We Are Travel Girls.

WHAT VISA DO I NEED FOR MALAWI?

Visas are required for Malawi. It is your responsibility to research what visa is required based on your country of origin / nationality. More information can be found here on the Malawi High Commission Site here.

The Responsible Safari company can assist with your visa applications in advance of the trip. Once your place is booked on the trip you will email a photocopy of your passport through to info@responsiblesafaricompany.com. The Responsible Safari Company will fill out the paper work on your behalf prior to your arrival and you will then present your passport along with US $75 in US cash to the RSC representative on arrival to obtain your Visa Stamp through the local Immigration Official.

MOROCCO RETREAT QUESTIONS

CAN I COME SOLO?

Absolutely! The trip is an opportunity to connect with a group of women from all over the world and make new and lasting friendships. The majority of our trip guests come solo.

HOW MUCH FREE TIME IS THERE?

There are several afternoons of free time in the itinerary that you can use to relax at the hotel, go out to explore or go shopping. Of course, all daily activities are optional so you are welcome to skip something in favour of some down time!

ARE THERE SINGLE OCCUPANCY ROOMS?

Yes, there are some single occupancy rooms available for an additional cost of around US $750 based on availability. All other rooms are shared occupancy with one other female guest. Each room has two beds, either two single beds or one double and one single bed.

DO I NEED A VISA FOR MOROCCO?

A visa may be required to travel to Morocco. It is your responsibility to check the visa requirements based on your country of original / nationality and to obtain the correct visa for your trip. Morocco does offer visa-free travel for stays of up to 90 days for many countries.

WHAT IS THE ACTIVITY LEVEL?

This is a very active trip and there will be lots of walking and exploring. The activities themselves are not strenuous and we have drivers throughout who take us between the hotels, restaurants and to our activities.

WHAT DO I NEED TO BRING?

Experience Morocco will send an information pack with FAQ’s to you around 1 month before the trip. If you have specific questions about what to bring these can be answered at any time – just drop us an email: [email protected]

Will Becky Host The Northern Extension?

If there are more than 4 guests who book the Norther Extension then Becky will join to host this part of the trip. Otherwise you will be joined by other guests and the Experience Morocco team who will run the trip and be your guides.

I Would Like More Details On The Norther Extension

If you are interested in the Norther Extension, please detail this in ‘Anything Else To Add’ section on the booking form and the team at Experience Morocco will provide all the details of this part of the trip and the price to you.

WHEN IS PAYMENT DUE?

Once your application is received and your booking confirmed a non-refundable 30% deposit is due immediately to secure your place on the retreat. The balance of the payment is due 2 months before the retreat start date.

IS THERE A MINIMUM GUEST NUMBER?

Yes. We require a minimum of 10 guests to run the trip. As per the Terms & Conditions, if the running of the trip is not deemed financially viable we reserve the right to cancel the retreat. In this situation you will be refunded all monies paid to Experience Morocco. However, we will not reimburse any travel costs or flights already booked.

WHAT METHOD OF PAYMENT IS AVAILABLE?

Once your booking is confirmed we will send you a link to a secure payment page to make the first payment for the deposit directly to Experience Morocco. Payments will be made via the WeTravel Payment System, which allows the use of a major credit card or bank transfer. We will then send you a reminder and payment link when the balance is due.

DO I NEED TO PURCHASE TRAVEL INSURANCE?

Yes. You are responsible for obtaining your own travel insurance cover. We recommend and require that you purchase travel insurance at the point of  booking your spot on a Travel Girls Getaway. This is in order that you are insured should unforeseen circumstances prevent you from attending the trip.

One option is World Nomads. However, it is your responsibility to research travel insurance companies in your location and select an insurer that suits your needs and coverage requirements.

DO YOU CATER FOR DIETARY REQUIREMENTS?

Once your place is booked Experience Morocco will send out a guest information form requesting information such as dietary requirements. We will do our best to accommodate all dietary requirements for meals in the hotels and at the restaurants.

HOW WILL BE GET AROUND?

We will have an air conditioned mini bus for the duration of the trip with our guide to take us from place to place. Please note Morocco is a big country and this tour does include some long driving days when we make our way out to the desert camp!

Still Have Questions?

 

Please send us an email to [email protected] or fill out the form below and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can!