Scandinavia, Russia & The Baltic Countries
Important Information and Practical Tips
English is Scandinavia’s second language and is almost spoken fluently throughout. In Russia and the Baltic States, English is generally spoken at major hotels and tourist locations.
TRANSFERS:
Transfers are only included where indicated. Otherwise, taxis are reliable and easy to find in Scandinavia. Expect to pay anywhere between $40-$70 airport to city except Reykjavik $175 and Oslo $200. In town rides start at about $15 and up depending on distance. Most taxis accept credit cards.
CITY TOURS & EXCURSIONS:
Local sightseeing tours and excursions by boat are offered in all major cities. Your hotel reception normally carries sightseeing brochures.
CURRENCY & CREDIT CARDS:
The Scandinavian countries each have their own individual currency. (Norwegian Crowns (NOK), Swedish Crowns (SEK), Danish Crowns (DKK), Iceland Crowns (ISK) The exception is Finland where the Euro is now the official currency. Credit Cards are widely accepted and ATMs are commonplace.
HOTELS:
Hotel rates include rooms with private facilities (toilet, shower or bath), service charge, tax and breakfast unless otherwise noted. Twin beds are the norm. Single rooms are generally smaller. Triple and Quad rooms are not usually recommended.
MEALS:
Scandinavian breakfasts are normally served buffet style. Choices of cereals, eggs, cold cuts, cheese, breads, juices, fruits coffee, tea and many more delicacies.When lunch/dinner is included in the itinerary, it could be two-course, 3-course or served buffet style. Side orders and beverages are extra.
TIPS AND SERVICE CHARGES:
Hotel and restaurant service charges are included in tour prices where indicated. End of trip gratuities to the tour escort and driver are left to the discretion of each tour participant. Tipping in service establishments is not a widespread custom and will usually be included on the bill. Tipping to service personnel is becoming more prevalent at around 10% for good service.
CLOTHING AND CLIMATE:
The average temperatures in Scandinavia/Russia/The Baltics during the period May through September are around 70° F with low humidity. Only in very top Scandinavian restaurants, are gentlemen required to wear a jacket and tie. In most places casual and smart casual are fine.
LUGGAGE:
It is recommended to pack lightly as it can be difficult to carry too many suitcases in hotels and when using public buses, trains or ferries. Porter service is not readily available.
TRAVEL INSURANCE:
Highly recommended when traveling anywhere
OUR SERVICES:
All prepaid and unused services are non-refundable after travel or tour has started.
IRREGULARITIES:
In the unlikely event of an irregularity, your tour escort, local contact, or hotel must be notified at once so that the situation can be rectified on the spot. Any claim must be made in writing within 7 days after completion of the tour. Scantours cannot accept liability for any infringements or omissions by third parties where no immediate notification to the responsible party is made at the time of such incident.
PASSPORTS/VISAS:
Valid passports are required for all travelers and should be valid for 6 months from date of return to USA and contain at least one clean page. Visas, where required, are the responsibility of the traveler.