Essential Britain

12 Day Tour from London to London


Vacation Overview

Thrones and scones. Hops and scotch. Rock stars and famous rocks. They’re all included on this enthralling and encompassing tour of Britain. Pack your tweed and tartans for the best of London and country, the Scottish Highlands and Lowlands, and the enchanting villages and valleys of Wales, and prepare to be swept away like a runaway bride at the elopement capital of Gretna Green. The castles and cathedrals of London, Edinburgh, and Cardiff, as well as the charming pubs on every corner, will steal your heart away. With visits to the baffling boulders of Stonehenge, the battlefield of Culloden Moor, Shakespeare’s birthplace of Stratford-upon-Avon, and The Beatles’ home city of Liverpool, this tour of Britain promises rocking discovery and enlightenment, not to mention honorary degrees in ancient history, English literature, and music appreciation.
PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Alnwick so you can plan your day your way.

Itinerary

 

Day 1 ARRIVE IN LONDON, ENGLAND

Welcome to London! Uniformed Globus Hosts will be waiting to welcome you. Free time this afternoon.

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Day 2 LONDON–STONEHENGE–ILMINSTER–PLYMOUTH

Secrets of the Stones Meet your Tour Director and travel companions, to depart London at 8 am. First, try to unravel the mystery of prehistoric Stonehenge. Explore the visitor center with its imaginative exhibitions, then take time to view the monument up close. Head to the quaint market town of Ilminster for a welcome lunch at a local pub.
219 mi / 352 km

LOCAL FAVORITE
LOCAL TASTES Quench your thirst with local ales and ciders while tasting traditional pub fayre prepared following century old recipes. Nothing eases homesickness like hearty cooked food concocted with care and love like grandma used to make. Just like home away from home!


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Breakfast Breakfast
LunchLunch

Day 3 PLYMOUTH. EXCURSION TO CORNWALL

Legends of Land & Sea Start the day with a scenic cruise on Plymouth Sound, following in the footsteps of the Pilgrim Fathers, before enjoying a drive through the West Country into Poldark’s Cornwall. Visit the thriving fishing village and former smugglers’ port of Looe. Head back to Plymouth and enjoy some free time.
42 mi / 70 km

LOCAL FAVORITE
EPIC RIDE Stunning views of Cornwall, the setting of Winston Graham's ‘Poldark’ saga of Cornish life in the 18th century, will leave you breathless on a scenic drive through the West Country. Get carried away with a spectacular scenic cruise on Plymouth Sound, a magnificent inlet on the English Channel.


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Breakfast Breakfast

Day 4 PLYMOUTH–GLASTONBURY–BATH–CARDIFF, WALES

Timeless Kings & Thermal Springs At Glastonbury, hear about the legend of King Arthur and the Holy Grail, and then head to the Georgian city of Bath, visit the amazing excavations of the Roman Baths, and take time to explore this fascinating city on your own. Stay the night in Cardiff, the Welsh capital.
184 mi / 295 km

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
LEGENDS & LORE The Somerset town of Glastonbury is the site of King Arthur’s legendary quest for the mythical Holy Grail, the cup from which Jesus drank at the Last Supper. Hear how, while Arthur failed in his search, a noble knight named Galahad found the Holy Grail because of his pure heart.


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Breakfast Breakfast

Day 5 CARDIFF–BUILTH WELLS–LLANGOLLEN–LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND

Moor than Meets the Eye Your journey through Wales takes you on a scenic drive along the Taff Valley and through the Brecon Beacons National Park, and via the ancient market town of Builth Wells. Take a stroll in picturesque Llangollen, host to one of the world’s most colorful annual music festivals. On arrival in Liverpool, there’s some free time to enjoy this vibrant city.
190 mi / 306 km

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
NATURAL WONDERS Discover the extraordinary natural beauty of Brecon Beacons National Park while driving through its mountains, moors, and magnificent views. Look out for Welsh mountain ponies and sheep grazing in the wild and red kites gliding gracefully in the sky.


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Breakfast Breakfast

Day 6 LIVERPOOL–GRASMERE–GRETNA GREEN, SCOTLAND–GLASGOW

Songs, Sonnets & Secret Vows Start the day with a visit to The Beatles Story, for a fascinating journey into the life and music of the “Fab Four.” Take a scenic drive through the tranquil Lake District, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a break in Wordsworth’s beloved Grasmere and try original Grasmere Gingerbread. Head north to the Scottish border and stop at Gretna Green, where the blacksmith performed weddings for runaway young couples, and join in a fun wedding re-enactment. Overnight in Glasgow, Scotland’s largest city.
236 mi / 380 km

LOCAL FAVORITE
TIMELESS TRADITIONS Love will find a way to sweeten the day with classic gingerbread in Grasmere, or by parents hot on the trail of runaway brides and grooms who crossed them (and the Scottish border) to get hitched in 18th-century Gretna Green. Hear how romance was forged by a blacksmith who helped eloping couples hammer out the vows.


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Breakfast Breakfast
DinnerDinner

Day 7 GLASGOW–FORT WILLIAM–INVERNESS

Landmarks, Lochs & Legends An orientation drive shows you Glasgow’s landmarks, including the 12th-century cathedral, university buildings and Georgian squares before heading on a scenic drive past Loch Lomond, Rannoch Moor, and Glen Coe. View Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest peak from Fort William before following the length of the legendary Loch Ness, en route to Inverness, the Highland capital.
178 mi / 286 km

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
LEGENDS & LORE Survey the shores of famed Loch Ness for the chance to catch a glimpse of its mysterious Nessie. Hear of the folklore and firm believers in the legend of the Loch Ness Monster, which is said to swim in the shimmering waters.


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Breakfast Breakfast
DinnerDinner

Day 8 INVERNESS–CULLODEN–PITLOCHRY–ST. ANDREWS–EDINBURGH

Bravery, Birdies & Bagpipes View the battlefield of Culloden Moor, scene of the crushing Hanoverian victory over Bonnie Prince Charlie’s Scottish clans, before a walk through the Victorian mountain resort of Pitlochry. Visit St. Andrews, the home of golf and famous university town before a drive over the elegant Forth Road Bridge takes you to Edinburgh.
202 mi / 326 km

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
THE ROYAL EDINBURGH MILITARY TATTOO Unpack your plaid! Edinburgh Military Tattoo performances included on departures August 1, 8, 15 and 22.

ICONIC FOOTSTEPS See the fairways and greens at the birthplace of golf, where legendary players of the Scottish game made history in the university town of St. Andrews.

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Breakfast Breakfast

Day 9 EDINBURGH

Crown Jewels & Castle Views Morning city sightseeing with a Local Guide introduces you to the 200-year-old “New Town” and the famous scientists, inventors, and novelists who lived there. In the “Old Town,” visit Edinburgh Castle to admire Scotland’s Crown Jewels. The afternoon is free to enjoy the Scottish capital at your own pace.


TOUR HIGHLIGHT
HISTORIC SPOT Ascend to Castle Rock to explore Edinburgh Castle, one of the most important historical strongholds in the Kingdom of Scotland, with a 1,100-year history as "the most besieged place in Great Britain.” Here, see the royal regalia and Scotland’s Crown Jewels.


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Breakfast Breakfast

Day 10 EDINBURGH–ALNWICK, ENGLAND–YORK

Spend your day your way in Alnwick This morning, head to Alnwick Castle, ancestral home of the Duke and Duchess of Northumberland, and more recently featured in the Harry Potter films and Downton Abbey. Explore more of Alnwick with your choice of Globus Choice excursions.

BLOOMING MARVELOUS
See the vision of the Duchess of Northumberland blooming as a true 21st century experience full of imagination, inspiration and fun. Stroll the Alnwick Garden for an eye-popping experience in one of the world's most ambitious new gardens.
CAPTURE THE CASTLE
The second largest inhabited castle in England, Alnwick Castle has been home to the Duke of Northumberland's family, the Percys, for over 700 years. Explore the castle and its grounds, featured in historical films, Shakespeare productions, and Harry Potter movies.


Next, make your way to York, England’s most complete medieval city. Admire the great structure of the Minster and follow your Tour Director through a maze of quaint streets, including the narrow Shambles.
214 mi / 344 km



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Breakfast Breakfast
DinnerDinner

Day 11 YORK–STRATFORD-UPON-AVON–LONDON

Mr. & Mrs. Shakespeare Head back to London via historic Stratford-upon-Avon, take pictures of Anne Hathaway’s Cottage and enjoy a visit to Shakespeare’s Birthplace. You will return to London at about 3.30 pm.
255 mi / 410 km

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
A LEGEND SLEPT HERE Ah, young love! Even more true, as young Shakespeare’s fiancée was eight years his senior. See Anne Hathaway's Cottage, the family home where the bard’s wife-to-be was born and courted by young Will. Built more than 500 years ago, much of the original structure remains. Visit Shakespeare’s Birthplace and family home in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon. Hear tales of Shakespeare’s family life, marriage, and children with a close look at fascinating artifacts in a world-class collection assembled by the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust.


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Breakfast Breakfast

Day 12 LONDON

Safe travels until we meet again! Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning.

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Breakfast Breakfast

Vacation Highlights

Special Features Included in this Tour:
• Visit to Stonehenge
• Visit to Bath, featuring the Roman Baths
• Visit to The Beatles Story in Liverpool
• Grasmere Gingerbead tasting
• Join in a wedding re-enactment in Gretna Green
• Guided sightseeing in Edinburgh with visit to Edinburgh Castle and the Scottish Crown Jewels
• Admission to The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo (August 1, 8, 15 and 22 departures)
• Globus Choice excursions in Alnwick – included in your tour with your choice of an inside visit to Alnwick Castle or a visit to Alnwick Garden
• Lunch in a local pub in Ilminster
• Scenic cruise on the Plymouth Sound
• Visit to Glastonbury
• Guided walking tour of medieval York, including The Shambles
• Visit to Stratford-upon-Avon – Shakespeare’s Birthplace
• Orientation drive in Glasgow
• Visit to Llangollen

Due to the Solstice closure of Stonehenge on 21st June, departure June 20 will visit Salisbury rather than Stonehenge.

This tour requires some uphill walking on rough terrain at Edinburgh Castle which may pose a challenge to guests with physical limitations or reliant on mobility devices such as wheelchairs. Some walking involved back to the hotel after the Edinburgh Tattoo for departures that include the Tattoo.

Headsets available on tour except for London.

Hotels

London

Park Plaza Westminster Bridge

Hotel as shown or similar
Superior First-Class

Situated opposite Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, Park Plaza Westminster Bridge places guests at the heart of central London. Dining option include Brasserie Joël, Ichi Sushi & Sashimi, 1WB Lounge & Patisserie, and Primo Bar. The hotel also boasts a fitness center with a 15-meter pool and Mandara Spa. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available for guests throughout the hotel.

London

Park Plaza Waterloo

Hotel as shown or similar
Superior First-Class

The 494-room property is situated within walking distance of top London attractions, including the London Eye, the London Dungeons and the Imperial War Museum. The Florentine Restaurant serves a Brasserie-style menu; the bar features the best of British bubbles and craft beers as well as a range of signature cocktails; and for a relaxing cup of coffee, head to the illy Caffè bar. The hotel also boasts a fitness centre and a heated swimming pool. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available for guests throughout the hotel.

Plymouth

Crowne Plaza Plymouth

Hotel as shown or similar
Superior First-Class

A modern hotel with sea views overlooking Plymouth Hoe. Thanks to Sleep Advantage® programme, guests enjoy a good night's rest, with premium bedding, quiet zones and a guaranteed wake up call. There is Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill with sea views and Drakes Bar and Lounge. Guests can workout in the gym or wind down in the heated pool. There's also an outdoor garden for those who prefer to enjoy the fresh air.

Cardiff

Holland House hotel Cardiff by Sunday

Hotel as shown or similar
Superior First-Class

Holland House Hotel Cardiff by Sunday is a modern hotel situated in the vibrant capital city of Wales, Cardiff, with 165 bedrooms. All of the sights and attractions of Cardiff are within walking distance such as the iconic Millennium Stadium and Cardiff Castle.

Liverpool

Pullman Liverpool

Hotel as shown or similar
Superior First-Class

Guests will enjoy the conveniences of this central hotel and its bar, lounge, and Marco Pierre White Wheelers of St. James Oyster Bar & Grill Room. All guestrooms are bright, modern, and luxurious, and come with blackout curtains, minibar with complimentary mineral water, 55" TV with SKY TV channels, tea and coffee making facilities, iron and ironing board, robe and slippers, waterfall shower, and luxury toiletries. There is free 5G Wi-Fi throughout the hotel.

Glasgow

Clayton Hotel Glasgow

Hotel as shown or similar
Superior First-Class

The hotel is situated on Clyde Street overlooking the beautiful River Clyde and just a 10 minutes' walk from George Square, and Glasgow's main shopping streets, art galleries, bars and restaurants. All rooms are air-conditioned and include King Koil mattresses for an enhanced sleep experience, HD TVs with Chromecast, WIFI and complimentary use of fitness suite.

Inverness

AC Hotel by Marriott Inverness

Hotel as shown or similar
Superior First-Class

Where the River Ness meets the Moray Firth, AC Hotel Inverness, the largest hotel in the city, offers modern accommodation in the heart of the Scottish Highlands. This perfectly positioned hotel is only a short walk from Inverness Railway Station and the finest shopping and sightseeing spots. Our thoughtfully designed guest rooms offer modern decor, flexible workspace, free Wi-Fi, a smart TV and plenty of space to unwind or focus before your meeting in a calm environment. The perfect blend of form and functions for a stay in Inverness. Start the day with a European-style breakfast and end it with hand crafted cocktails at the AC Lounge. The restaurant completes the offer with tapas-style bites and local flavors, perfectly paired with iconic views across the river. After a long day of exploring the legend of Loch Ness, let us pour you a glass of our signature gin tonic whilst you welcome a moment of tranquility on our riverside terrace. Unfold an enriching stay in one of Scotland's most picturesque cities.

Edinburgh

Mount Royal Hotel Edinburgh

Hotel as shown or similar
First-Class

Situated on the iconic Princes Street, the Mount Royal Hotel Edinburgh by The Unlimited Collection boasts an unbeatable location in the heart of Scotland's vibrant capital Just a 4-minute stroll from Edinburgh Waverley station and a 30-minute drive from Edinburgh Airport, you¿re steps away from cultural treasures like Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile. Following a recent renovation, our 169 air-conditioned rooms span 7 unique categories, thoughtfully designed for every kind of traveller for both corporate and leisure.

York

Mercure York Fairfield Manor

Hotel as shown or similar
First-Class

One of the most tranquil hotels in York, set in 6 acres of private grounds on the outskirts of the historic walled cathedral city and the banks of the River Ouse. All 89 comfortable bedrooms have HD TV, tea and coffee making facilities and complimentary WIFI.

Dates and Prices

View the following dates and prices to find just the right date for your vacation. Below you'll find the date the vacation starts and the date you'll return.  

Once you've selected your date, you'll move to the next step to get an airfare quote and to begin booking your vacation. When you book your flights with us, you'll find we offer competitive and hassle-free airfares, plus you'll receive free airport transfers for flights coordinated with vacation dates and you'll avoid strict Internet terms and conditions.

The price listed does not include your airfare from Canada. Once you click "Book Now", you will be able to receive an air quote.

Departure
Details
Tour
Start Date
Return
Date
Land/Cruise
Price Only
 Status
2026-09-12 2026-09-23
$6,031
Not Available
2026-09-19 2026-09-30
$6,031
Please Call
2026-09-26 2026-10-07
$6,601
Please Call
2026-10-03 2026-10-14
$5,781
Please Call
Popular Departure
2026-10-10 2026-10-21
$5,781
Book Now!
Popular Departure
2027-05-01 2027-05-12
$6,254
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2027-05-08 2027-05-19
$7,171
Not Available
Popular Departure
2027-05-15 2027-05-26
$6,254
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Popular Departure
2027-05-22 2027-06-02
$6,226
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Popular Departure
2027-05-29 2027-06-09
$6,254
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2027-06-12 2027-06-23
$6,254
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2027-06-26 2027-07-07
$7,171
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Popular Departure
2027-07-10 2027-07-21
$5,559
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2027-07-24 2027-08-04
$7,171
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Popular Departure
2027-08-07 2027-08-18
$6,629
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2027-08-21 2027-09-01
$6,629
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2027-09-04 2027-09-15
$6,254
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Popular Departure
2027-09-11 2027-09-22
$6,254
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2027-09-18 2027-09-29
$6,254
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2027-09-25 2027-10-06
$7,171
Book Now!
Popular Departure
2027-10-02 2027-10-13
$6,115
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2028-04-22 2028-05-03
$6,559
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2028-04-29 2028-05-10
$7,532
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2028-05-06 2028-05-17
$6,573
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2028-05-13 2028-05-24
$6,573
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2028-05-20 2028-05-31
$6,573
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2028-05-27 2028-06-07
$7,546
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2028-06-03 2028-06-14
$6,573
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2028-06-17 2028-06-28
$6,573
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2028-07-01 2028-07-12
$5,559
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2028-07-15 2028-07-26
$6,573
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2028-08-05 2028-08-16
$6,949
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2028-08-19 2028-08-30
$6,949
Book Now!
2028-09-02 2028-09-13
$6,629
Book Now!
2028-09-09 2028-09-20
$6,629
Book Now!
2028-09-16 2028-09-27
$6,629
Book Now!
2028-09-23 2028-10-04
$7,602
Book Now!
2028-09-30 2028-10-11
$6,532
Book Now!
2028-10-07 2028-10-18
$6,532
Book Now!
Popular Departure - due to itinerary and time of year, this departure historically sells out quickly. Early booking is encouraged.



Dates & Prices do not include international air travel.

Travel Terms & Conditions

The purchase of any travel services offered by Globus, constitutes a contractual arrangement between you and Globus, and represents your acceptance of the Terms & Conditions. Please ensure that you read carefully and understand the Terms & Conditions prior to booking. These Terms & Conditions cover Deposit & Final Payment information, Air-Inclusive Deposits & Final Payment, Revisions & Revision Fees, Air Arrangements, Participation, Travellers Who Need Special Assistance, Young Travellers, Smoking, Price Policy, Visas and Passports, Hotels & Accommodations, Baggage Allowance, Travel Documents, Not Included in the Land Price, Refunds, Service Inquires After the Vacation, Holidays, Safety, Photos & Pictures, Optional Excursions, and Responsibility.
View full Terms & Conditions


Important Notes

  • The “Starting at” or listed price is based on the lowest price available to book. Price is per person based on twin occupancy and any applicable port charges, non-commissionable taxes and fees and intra-vacation flight are included in the price shown. Any included overnight stay in Canada, applicable GST/HST is also included in the price shown. International airfare, however, is not included. If price is crossed out, the new price shown includes a limited time promotional offer(s). Please review current promotions or deals for additional information.
  • Vacation departures, itineraries and prices are subject to change.
  • A non-refundable, non-transferable deposit of $250 per person per vacation is required for Globus to reserve space for you. View full Terms & Conditions for limited exceptions.
  • Charges not included in the land vacation price: airfare to/from the start/end of your vacation; airline baggage fees including checked and/or excess baggage fees; Federal inspection fees for the Federal Customs and Immigrations; agricultural tax; GST/HST/PST or other per person taxes imposed by government entities; passports; visas and vaccinations; transfers; tips to your Tour or Cruise Director, Local Host, driver, Local Guides, and/or ships' crew; gratuities on ferries, trains, and cruise ships; laundry; telephone; minibar; alcohol, beverages, and food outside of the contracted menu as presented at a hotel or restaurant (these extra items will be billed to you before leaving the hotel, ship, or restaurant); additional excursions and activities not listed as 'included' in the itinerary; porterage at airports or train stations; Travel Insurance premiums; and all other items of a personal nature.

Booking your Vacation with Air

For air departure dates within 331 days, you'll be offered a choice of carriers and flight schedules as well as price points to choose from when selecting your flights. Your schedule will be provided to you at the time of booking (schedules are subject to change by carriers). Globus offers 2 air options: Flex Air and Instant Purchase Air. Flex Air allows flexibility if you want to make changes to your vacation schedule. Instant Purchase Air may offer additional airline options but has more restrictions. Some vacations may only offer one Air type option.

Guaranteed air-inclusive prices: air is only available to passengers travelling from Canada (with some exceptions from the United States, depending on the selected itinerary). An additional $300 per person non-refundable air deposit is required for Flex Air booked in conjunction with any land vacation (i.e. air-inclusive vacation). Air can only be booked by Globus in conjunction with a vacation package. Instant Purchase Air requires air payment in full at time of booking (i.e. air-inclusive vacation) plus a non-refundable service fee of $80 per person. Once booked, Instant Purchase Air is non-refundable, and non-changeable. Once your airfare is confirmed and Globus has received your full air and land deposit, your air-inclusive vacation price is guaranteed.

Air-Inclusive Vacations — Applicable Taxes & Fees

Air inclusive price quotes will include all government-imposed taxes and fees applicable at the time of booking and will be shown as a Total Amount. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply. At the time of booking your air-inclusive vacation online, carrier Websites will be provided to check baggage fees, or you can visit www.iflybags.com for up-to-date baggage pricing/restrictions. The total airfare price, the base airfare price, and the applicable government taxes and fees are broken-out line-by-line and shown while booking online and on the invoice after your travel is booked. For return travel from some countries, international travellers are required to pay entry and/or exit fees at the airport. These fees will be collected by the local government and are payable by the traveller at time of travel. Your confirmation booking information will contain information about these fees.