Switzerland

September 18-29, 2024

Land + Air options are available - sign up by feb 10
(minimum of 10 people to include Air)

ARRIVAL INFORMATION AND MEET AND GREET INSTRUCTIONS (DRIVER AND TOUR MANAGER)

7:30AM Geneva GVA airport: 5 Group members arrive on flight UA 956 from EWR - arrives: Terminal 1 

5 PASSENGERS – Flights arranged on own 

1. DELNETTE HOMILDA (GROUP LEADER) 

2. ADELFILO HOMILDA 

3. DORIS MAGBANUA 

4. MYRA CHIANG 

5. HWAILI SOO

 In the case of lost luggage, delays at customs/immigration/baggage claim it is important that someone make contact with the driver who is waiting for you in the arrivals hall to advise them of the delay (as he can't enter the baggage claim area).  

Driver will wait for the clients at the arrival hall holding a sign reading groups’ name. 

8:00AM Private Vehicle (1 VAN) - arrives at Geneva GVA airport and provides transfer to the Hotel Ibis Geneva Centre Gare 

Geneva Limousine 
Phone: +41 22 719 85 60 

10:45AM Geneva GVA airport: 4 Group members arrive on flight DL 100 from JFK - arrives: Terminal 1 

4 PASSENGERS – Flights arranged on own 

1. FRIEDA OCDENARIA 

2. LUIS OCDENARIA JR 

3. EVANGELINA CASTRO 

4. ZINAH ROLDAN 

In the case of lost luggage, delays at customs/immigration/baggage claim it is important that someone make contact with the driver who is waiting for you in the arrivals hall to advise them of the delay (as he can't enter the baggage claim area).  

Driver will wait for the clients at the arrival hall holding a sign reading groups’ name. 

11:00AM Private Vehicle (1 VAN) - arrives at Geneva GVA airport and provides transfer to the Hotel Ibis Geneva Centre Gare 

Geneva Limousine 
Phone: +41 22 719 85 60  

1:25PM Geneva GVA airport: 1 Group member arrive on flight IB 3490 from MAD - arrives: Terminal 1 

1 PASSENGER – Flights arranged on own 

 1. EDNA SOLITARIO 

 In the case of lost luggage, delays at customs/immigration/baggage claim it is important that someone make contact with the tour manager who is waiting for you in the arrivals hall to advise them of the delay (as he can't enter the baggage claim area).  

Tour Manager will wait for the clients at the arrival hall holding a sign reading groups’ name. 

1:45PM Tour Manager – Arrives at Geneva airport arrivals hall and accompanies the group to the Hotel  

George von Merey  
Phone: +41 794 154 577  

This passenger will wait for the arrival of 21 passengers in the same terminal. Once they all arrive, they will be transferred together to the hotel in one vehicle. 

Welcome dinner menu:

Dinner at Le Bistrot de Charlotte 
Place des Bergues 3, 1201 Geneva 

3 course meal incl. 1 glass of wine & water 
 

MENU  

Starter 

Tomatoes tartare OR Cucumber salad, cloud of feta, Olives 

**** 

Mains 

Provençale-style grilled supions 

OR 

Creamy yakitori poultry ballotine 

OR 

Roasted cauliflower with spices, carrot and cumin velouté 

****** 

Desserts 

Chocolat mouss OR Fresh fruit Salad 

Farewell dinner menu

Dinner at Schlachthof Letzigrund
Herdernstrasse 59, 8004 Zürich 
3 course meal incl. 1 glass of wine, water & coffee or tea 

MENU 

Starter 

Small mixed salad 

Mixed herbs, hazelnut pumpkin seed crunch 

**** 

Mains 

Cordon Bleu 

Meat of Thurgau apple pork farmer`s ham, Swiss alps cheese & fries 

OR 

Parsley gnocchi & Belper Knolle (VG, VGN option) (Need to know how many want this option) 

grilled pear, hazelnut crunch & almondmilk parsley sauce 

**** 

Dessert 

Panna Cotta & Chocolate Cake 

Departure Details

4 PASSENGERS – Flights arranged on own 

1. FRIEDA OCDENARIA 

2. LUIS OCDENARIA JR 

3  EVANGELINA CASTRO 

4. ZINAH ROLDAN 

9:50AM Please be fully checked out and in hotel lobby ready to depart 

10:00AM Private Vehicle (1 VAN) - arrives at Hotel Stoller and provides transfer to Zurich Airport. 

VIP Driver 
Phone: +41 447 404 036 

3 PASSENGERS – Extended their stay by an additional night 

1. EDNA SOLITARIO 

2. MYRA LEE CHIANG 

3. HWAILI SOO 

 Free day on own in Zurich  

 Overnight at Hotel Stoller  

September 30:

6:10AM Please be fully checked out and in hotel lobby ready to depart 

6:20AM Private Vehicle (1 VAN) - arrives at Hotel Stoller and provides transfer to Zurich Airport. 

VIP Driver 
Phone: +41 447 404 036 

3 PASSENGERS – Extend their stay on their own- no transfers or extra hotel nights are arranged

1. DELNETTE HOMILDA 

2. ADELFILO HOMILDA 

3. DORIS MAGBANUA 

TRAVEL DETAILS

REGISTRATION FORM

PLEASE TYPE CAREFULLY! INACCURATE INFORMATION WILL RESULT IN TRAVEL DELAYS AND/OR CHANGE FEES.

(Please submit one registration form per household -max 2 people per registration form)

F.A.Q.

How can we lower the price for this trip?

Having more guests on a group booking can significantly lower the cost of the trip.
The fixed costs associated with the trip, such as transportation, tour guide fees, and administration costs, can be spread over a larger number of people, reducing the cost per person.

For our group here’s the price breakdown with different minimum numbers:

Land Only

15-19 Guests
Double Occupancy: $5,856
Single Occupancy: $7,114

20-24 Guests
Double Occupancy: $5,665
Single Occupancy: $6,922

25-29 Guests
Double Occupancy: $5,399
Single Occupancy: $6,657

30-34 Guests
Double Occupancy: $5,237
Single Occupancy: $6,494

35-39 Guests
Double Occupancy: $5,108
Single Occupancy: $6,366

Land and Air (minimum of 10 guests choosing this option)

15-19 Guests
Double Occupancy: $7,075
Single Occupancy: $8,333

20-24 Guests
Double Occupancy: $6,884
Single Occupancy: $8,141

25-29 Guests
Double Occupancy: $6,618
Single Occupancy: $7,876

30-34 Guests
Double Occupancy: $6,456
Single Occupancy: $7,713

35-39 Guests
Double Occupancy: $6,327
Single Occupancy: $7,585

So, consider amplifying the fun and excitement of your Swiss adventure by inviting more friends or family members to join. The more the merrier!

HOW MUCH LUGGAGE CAN I BRING ON THE BUS?

Luggage allowance on ground transportation is limited to ONE standard sized suitcase and ONE small carry-on per person (plus personal item).

While the bus may have more space, the trains most certainly will NOT have room for more than one standard size suitcase per person.

WHAT TIME IS THE CHECK IN TO THE ACCOMMODATIONS?

Check in at your hotel will not be until 3pm at the earliest.

• If you arrive early, or your room is not yet ready for you to check in when you arrive, you may be able to leave your bags with the front desk and they will keep them securely held behind the desk while you go out and eat or explore the city until your room is ready.

IS BREAKFAST INCLUDED?

Yes! Breakfast is included at all your locations.

WHAT ELECTRIC ADAPTER SHOULD I BRING?

You will need to consider what to pack, to ensure you can use your personal electrical appliances safely while you are abroad. This normally includes the use of a travel adapter, which is a device that simply allows you to plug any US electrical appliance into a foreign electrical socket. It is important to note that it does not convert the voltage or frequency.

When traveling from the USA to Switzerland, it's important to note that the power plugs and sockets are of type J in Switzerland.

This type is different from the plugs used in the USA, which are type A or B. Hence, you'll need a travel adapter that can convert the American plug to the Swiss one. In terms of voltage, Switzerland operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz. While most modern devices can handle different voltages, it's always a good idea to double-check your device's voltage compatibility to prevent damage.

In Milan, Italy, it's crucial to note that the power plugs and sockets are of type F and L in Italy. This type is distinct from the plugs used in the USA, which are type A or B. Hence, you'll require a travel adapter that can convert the American plug to the Italian one. In terms of voltage, Italy operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz. As with Switzerland, most modern devices can handle different voltages, but it's recommended to check your device's voltage compatibility to avert any potential damage.

BUY A POWER PLUG/TRAVEL ADAPTER

Amazon has an great selection of adapters. We don’t sell directly, just want to make sure you have the right one for your travels!

Is it customary to tip in Switzerland?

In Switzerland, tipping is not obligatory as service charges are typically included in the bill. However, if you received exceptional service, it's customary to leave a small tip as a token of your appreciation. This could be rounding up to the nearest franc for smaller bills or a few additional francs for larger amounts.

Keep in mind that tipping should reflect the quality of service you received.

Restaurants/Pubs/Bars

At restaurants, for instance, it is customary to leave a tip of around 10-15% of the bill if you're pleased with the service. However, always check your bill first to see if a service charge has already been included.

In pubs and bars, tipping is less common, but you might choose to offer to buy the bartender a drink if you're feeling generous.

Driver services

Yes, you should tip your driver.
Please consider a tip of (at least):
$60/pp for the driver

Guide Services

Yes, you should tip your tour guide if you found their service helpful and informative. As with other service industry roles, a tip serves as a gesture of appreciation for their expertise and effort.

Please consider a tip of (at least):
$100/pp for the guide

What if I need Distilled Water for CPAP?

We have checked with the hotels, and they’ve informed us that they cannot provide distilled water, as this is uncommon in Europe.

You will need to purchase it from a supermarket or pharmacy, and the hotel staff can direct you to the nearest one.

Do I need binoculars?

NEED? No.

Want?? Probably.

When planning a trip to the Swiss Alps, bringing a pair of binoculars can certainly enhance your experience.
Given the stunning landscapes that characterize this region, from the majestic mountain peaks to the diverse wildlife, binoculars could provide a closer look at these natural wonders.
Whether you're a bird watcher, a wildlife enthusiast, or a sightseer interested in appreciating the intricate details of the alpine landscapes, a binocular would be a worthy addition to your travel gear. However, keep in mind that binoculars can add weight to your luggage, so consider this factor when packing, particularly if you plan on doing a lot of hiking or moving around.

What should I bring on the bus each day?

Snacks and a water bottle.

Since you’ll be on the bus all day (most days), we encourage you to bring some snacks and a water bottle with you to keep up your energy!

Jacket/scarf/gloves/hat

In September, Switzerland begins to transition from summer to autumn, offering a blend of sunny days and cooler temperatures. The average high is around 19°C (66°F) while the average low dips to about 10°C (50°F). The Alpine regions tend to be cooler, and it's not uncommon to see the first snowfalls at higher elevations towards the end of the month. Rainfall can occur, but it's generally a dry month with an average of 8 rainfall days. Therefore, layering is key when packing for your Swiss adventure in September. Also, keep in mind that weather can be unpredictable at times, especially in the mountains, so it's advisable to check the local forecast for the most accurate information.

Camera

You know we all love seeing your photos of the adventures you have together!

Cash (Swiss Francs)

You’ll be purchasing lunch each day, and possibly purchasing souvenirs along the way.

Switzerland uses the Swiss Franc (CHF) as its official currency. It's advisable to have some local currency on hand for small purchases, as not all businesses accept credit cards.

ATMs are widely available and offer a convenient way to withdraw cash as needed. Additionally, many places also accept Euros, but the exchange rate may not be as favorable. It's worth noting that while Switzerland is part of Europe, it is not part of the European Union, thus it does not use the Euro as its official currency.

Binoculars

If you’ve got ‘em- bring ‘em!

Is there a bathroom on the bus?

The coach has a toilet, yes.

Will there be electric outlets on the bus and Trains?

The bus will have two power outlets, but no individual USB ports—just two outlets for the entire bus.

If having a power source is important to you, we recommend bringing a portable power bank with you to charge your devices on the road.

Can I pay by Zelle?

Yes!

We started taking Zelle payments last month and we found this to be a fast and FREE way to pay!
For those who don’t know what Zelle is… it is very much like a wire transfer (but it is not a wire transfer).

Everyone’s bank is different, though, so you may want to call/go in to your local bank and ask to have the maximum amount available to transfer every day.

Example: Some banks only allow $500/day transfer. Other banks will allow $1200/day.

Always be careful when making payments through Zelle to people that you do not know. There is no protection guarantee provided and you cannot reverse the fee.

The Pros for using Zelle:

• It is FREE (no processing fees)!

• It is instantaneous (funds will go directly to Zone Travel- so this is the absolute fastest way to make a payment)

The Cons for using Zelle:

• Every bank is different when it comes to maximum amount available to be transferred every day. So, this may mean that you need to make multiple payments to Zone Travel, multiple days in a row.

• It does require an app download onto your phone, and you need to set up your account with your bank information.

Can I pay by check?

Yes!

If you would like to avoid the 4%processing fees, you may pay by check.
It is very important that you pay in advance of the deadlines and allow ample time for delivery.

Payments received after the deadline could result in cancelation of your reservation or increased fees.

There are two ways to pay by check:

• Deposit directly at a local branch (easiest, fastest, most affordable option)

• Mail the check priority (with tracking number)

Pricing details

price per person*: 

Land only Double occupancy

$5,399/pp

Land only Single occupancy

$6,657/pp

Note: Main tour prices are based on a minimum of 25 guests. Changes in pricing could occur if minimum numbers are not met.
Please see FAQ section for price differences for more (or less) guests.

Land and air double occupancy

$6,618/pp

Land and air Single occupancy

$7,876/pp

*All pricing & availability is subject to change until completed through the booking process. If your vacation package includes airfare, baggage fees may be an additional cost. For international travel, a passport book is required. Most locations require at least 6 months before expiration on your passport, as well as 2 blank visa pages.. Please make sure to have the correct and updated documents if applicable you have a criminal background, you are responsible for knowing the travel restrictions pertaining to the offense.

INCLUDED IN THE QUOTE

• Group Flights (w/10+ guests- when “Land and Air” package is selected)
  Please note: Airfare, subject to availability at time of deposit and airline fuel surcharge and taxes/fees are included but subject to change until tickets are paid and issued.

  • Newark to Geneva (layover in Zurich)

    • Economy Class

    • One checked bag included

  • Zurich to Newark (nonstop)

• Hotels

  • Geneva (2nts)

  • Interlaken (3nts)

  • Zermatt (1nt)

  • St. Moritz (2nts)

  • Zurich (2nts)

• Ground transportation

  • as described above

• Tours

  • as described above

• Meals/Tastings

  • Breakfast daily

  • Welcome dinner

  • Samples at Gruyeres Cheese Factory with 3 course lunch

  • Maison Cailler Chocolate Factory tasting

  • Daily Plate including main course, coffee or tea on board the Glacier Express (Zermatt to St. Moritz)

  • Farewell dinner

• Most taxes and fees

  • Service fees and commissions (NON REFUNDABLE)

NOT INCLUDED

• Additional tours not included in the itinerary

  • Activities at Firstbahn and First- Schreckfeld ($122/pp extra)

• Ground transportation not included above

• Meals not included in the itinerary above

• Incidental charges 

• Local Tax

• 4% processing fee per payment (only if paying w/credit card)

• Most meals/beverages (unless included in the itinerary)

• Optional Travel Insurance *DUE AT TIME OF BOOKING- PLEASE REVIEW THE DETAILS OF EACH PLAN THOROUGHLY

  • World Wide Trip Protector Edge ‘Basic’

  • World Wide Trip Protector ‘Premium’

  • Other insurance options are available, if you have questions or want more coverage options, please let us know at time of booking.

 

SUGGESTED PAYMENT SCHEDULE

There are three payment options available to you. 
*Payment schedule does not include insurance costs. Insurance is due with initial payment. 

Option 1: Full Payment
(Most affordable overall)
Full payment (plus insurance)- due upon receipt.

*Please keep in mind, a 4% processing fee will be charged at time of payment if paying with credit card. (this has not been included in the costs.)

Option 2: Two Payments

(More than 2 payments are not allowed without a $50/pp fee per payment)
NOTE: Not all insurance policy will allow you to purchase coverage after the initial deposit. It is illegal to purchase insurance with the knowledge and intent that you will be changing or canceling your trip.)

*Please keep in mind, a 4% processing fee will be charged at time of payment if paying with credit card. (this has not been included in the costs.)

TWO-PAYMENT PLAN:

(price per person)
Due now: $550 + Insurance (suggested)
120 days prior: Remainder due

 

Option 3: Monthly Payments
Payments will be split into the remaining months prior to your trip (ending at 120 days prior to departure)

(Monthly payment plans include an additional 10% administration fee per payment as well as the $50/pp fee.)

*Please keep in mind, a 4% processing fee may be charged at time of payment if choosing to pay with a credit card. (this has not been included in the costs.)

Split amount due into monthly payments.

• The first payment must be a minimum of $550 + insurance (per person), due upon receipt.

• The remaining payments will be divided by the months- with final payment due 120 days prior to your trip.

REGISTRATION 

• A completed registration form (one per household -max 2 people per registration form)

  • If you have more than 2 people from the same household going on this trip, please fill out multiple forms, as the maximum per form is 2 people.

FINAL PAYMENT

• Payments not received on time will result in reservation cancellation without refund.

• Additional bookings after the final payment deadline may result in higher prices, less availability and additional administrative fees.

• Fee amounts imposed are at the discretion of Zone Travel.

CANCELLATION

Cancellation in writing must be received by Zone Travel 60 days prior to departure for (possible) appropriate refund on the land tour cost minus the following fees:

• Commissions, fees and Travel insurance are non-refundable.

Zone Travel LLC and its cooperative destination incur unrecoverable charges preparing for your trip therefore, no refunds if cancellations occur less than 60 days before departure. Cancellations more than 60 days prior to departure are based on individual group bookings per the outlined confirmation document you receive.

Furthermore, Zone Travel must adhere to all vendor cancelation policies, which vary by vendor. Some bookings may be immediately non-refundable. For this reason, we highly recommend purchasing Travel Insurance.

We sell a variety of travel related products from different suppliers and service providers ("Suppliers"). Each Supplier has its own terms and condition that are applicable to your particular arrangements in addition to our general terms and conditions, and you should make sure you understand them.

Zone Travel is acting as intermediary or a "Booking Agent" for products and services that are not directly supplied by us (e.g., air carriage and ground transportation, hotel accommodations, meals, tours, cruises, etc.). We are not a co-vendor of such products and services. You will be entering into a separate contract with such Suppliers in connection with such products and services.

By making payments to Zone Travel for this trip you are agreeing to all Terms and Conditions listed on the Zone Travel website.

Vendor Cancel policy: Each vendor has their own policies, which we have to apply. This information may vary and is listed in full detail on the contract signed for each vendor.

WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND TRAVEL INSURANCE

Travel Insurance

TRAVEL INSURANCE - AVAILABLE FOR ALL USA CITIZENS - DUE WITH INITIAL PAYMENT

Zone Travel LLC strongly suggests purchasing Trip Cancellation insurance. Be sure to check with your healthcare provider as most U.S. medical coverage will not cover you outside of the country.

Insurance costs are based on the total package cost, including air taxes and charges listed under "Included."

Approximate amounts can be given at time of reservation in order to purchase the appropriate amount of insurance.

EDGE PLAN:
(BASIC PROTECTION)

Extensive coverage for everyone; designed with families in mind.

• Pre-existing Medical Conditions coverage if purchased within 14 days of deposit (other eligibility conditions must also be met)

• Wide range of reasons for trip cancellation or interruption

• Trip Delay and Missed Tour or Cruise Connection coverage

• Baggage Protection and Travel Accident Protection

• Medical and Evacuation coverage 

WORLDWIDE TRIP PROTECTOR:
(PREMIUM PROTECTION)

Extensive coverage for everyone; designed with families in mind.

• Pre-existing Medical Conditions coverage if purchased within 21 days of deposit (other eligibility conditions must also be met)

• Wide range of reasons for trip cancellation or interruption

• Trip Delay and Missed Tour or Cruise Connection coverage

• Baggage Protection and Travel Accident Protection

• Medical and Evacuation coverage