Final packet
We will send you your final packet approximately
14–7 days prior to departure containing hotel information, airline tickets, final itinerary, final Group Status Report and stipend (if applicable).
Photocopy passports and tickets
Passports
We recommend that you ask all travelers for photocopies of their passports.
This will expedite hotel check-in and be useful in case of lost travel documents.
E-tickets
Most of our groups are issued electronic tickets (e-tickets). If your group has e-tickets, then you can check in at the airport with a valid passport.
Paper tickets
If you received paper tickets, we recommend photocopying the tickets for your travelers. If any ticket is lost, you then have the information needed to replace it. Be aware that airlines charge fees for replacing lost tickets. Any penalty will be the responsibility of the participant who lost his/her ticket.
At the airport
Plan to arrive at the airport at least three hours prior to departure.
Approach the check-in agent and request a “group check-in.” When you check in, confirm where you will claim your luggage.
Arrival
At your arrival airport, collect your luggage, clear customs and proceed to the arrivals area where an EF representative will be waiting for you in the area accessible to the public. In some cases, your group might have to wait briefly at the airport for another group who will be joining your tour. On your return flight back to the U.S., remember that you will need to go through customs with your bags at the first U.S. city in which you arrive.
Keep the energy up
You will start your tour immediately after arrival and will not be able to check into your hotel until later that day. You and your students may be tired and jet-lagged, but it is important not to sleep–you will need to keep your momentum for the day’s activities! At some point on day two, request a meeting with your tour director and other group leaders on the tour to discuss the itinerary, special requests and to go over menu options.
Emergency service
EF Tour Directors are fully trained to handle any emergency that might arise on tour and have access to local EF offices worldwide. In the event that an emergency arises when your tour director is not available (such as before
you reach your destination), you may contact an EF re presentative 24 hours a day. If you have an emergency while you are in the US, please call 1-800-637-8222 and follow the prompt for an emergency. If you have an emergency while abroad, please call 001 617 619 2913. You can also find these numbers in your final ticket packet.