Important Information & Practical Tips

LANGUAGE: 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. The majority of our tours are conducted in English, however, they may also be multilingual. If you have a language preference, you should inquire about the particular tour at the time of booking.

TRANSFERS: Transfers are only included where indicated. Otherwise, taxis are reliable and easy to find in Scandinavia. Expect to pay $15-$40 between airport-hotel and $8-$15 for in-town rides. Always negotiate the fare before starting the trip. We can arrange private transfers throughout Scandinavia, Russia and the Baltic States.

CITY TOURS & EXCURSIONS: Local sightseeing tours are offered in all major cities as well as excursions on buses and boats into the countryside. Scantours can include most such tours, either public or by chauffeured car.

HOTELS: All Scantours hotels are well run and respected establishments. Hotel rates include rooms with private facilities (toilet, shower or bath), service charge, tax and breakfast unless otherwise noted. Rooms in Scandinavia are normally furnished with twin beds, which can be moved together to form a double bed if desired. Single rooms are generally smaller. Triple and family rooms are rare.

MEALS: Scandinavian breakfasts are included in all hotel rates and tours and are normally served buffet style. Choices of cereals, eggs, cold cuts, cheese, breads, juices, coffee, tea are the norm. When lunch/dinner is included in the itinerary, it is normally a three course meal with a choice of two different entrees or served buffet style. Side orders and beverages are not normally included.

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 in Scandinavia as service charges are normally included in the bill, but the tipping of small amounts to service personnel is becoming more prevalent.

CLOTHING AND CLIMATE: Medium weight clothes are recommended as a base. A raincoat, woolen sweater, wind breaker and good walking shoes are essential. The average temperatures in Scandinavia/Russia/The Baltics during the period May through September are around 70° F with low humidity. In top Scandinavian restaurants, gentlemen are required to wear a jacket and tie.

LUGGAGE: It is recommended to pack lightly as it can be difficult to carry too many suitcases when using public buses, trains or ferries. Porter service is not easily available.

GROUP TRAVEL: The tours we present are designed for groups as well as individuals…or we can design the dream tour just for your group.

SPECIAL INTEREST TRAVEL: We can also arrange travel to meet a variety of special interests such as bicycling, fishing, genealogy, sports, history, the arts, etc. .

VISA SERVICE: We can provide visa application forms for Russia. These are then processed by an outside Visa Service.

TRAVEL INSURANCE: Highly recommended when traveling anywhere. Scantours offers trip cancellation, baggage and medical. Click here to see rates and coverage.

CURRENCIES:
Denmark - Danish Crowns
Norway - Norwegian Crowns
Sweden - Swedish Crowns
Finland - Euro