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Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours

Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours

Setting the global standard for all inclusive luxury travel, Scenic's tours, river cruises and small ship cruises have delighted guests for more than 30 years with memorable journeys to fascinating locations across the world, delivering unsurpassed excellence in service, product quality and exclusive experiences.
TOTAL TRIPS: 338
AGE RANGE: 8-99 Years
BUDGET: Premium & Luxury
  57 Reviews (4.5/5)

Ways to Travel with Scenic View all Popular ways to travel with Scenic

Scenic River Cruises
River Cruises

Board one of Scenic's Space-Ships for an unforgettable journey along the waterways of Europe & Asia.

Scenic Land Journeys
Land Journeys

Explore the world in luxury on one of Scenic's fully escorted, all-inclusive land journeys.

Scenic Cruises
Cruises

Ultra-luxury cruises onboard the Scenic Eclipse and touring & cruise combos through Canada, Alaska & New England.

Featured Tours & Cruises View all

15 Days Amsterdam to Budapest

Operator: Scenic

From 6,241
Save 2,298

22 Days Victoria to Vancouver

Operator: Scenic

From 19,597
Save 1,201

25 Days Queenstown to Hobart

Operator: Scenic

From 38,877
Save 13,393

24 Days Hobart to Dunedin

Operator: Scenic

From 44,015
Save 10,445

Popular Destinations View all Explore the following regions on one of 338 tours & cruises with Scenic

Scenic Africa Tours
Africa

5 Tours

Scenic Antarctica Cruises
Antarctica

10 Cruises

Scenic Arctic Cruises
Arctic

21 Cruises

Scenic Asia Tours & Cruises
Asia

38 Tours & Cruises

Scenic Australia Tours & Cruises
Australia

23 Tours & Cruises

Scenic Canada Tours & Alaskan Cruises
Canada & Alaska

12 Tours

Scenic Egypt & Middle East Tours
Egypt & Middle East

7 Tours

Scenic Europe Tours & River Cruises
Europe

184 Tours & River Cruises

Scenic Japan Tours & Cruises
Japan

9 Tours & Cruises

Scenic New Zealand Tours
New Zealand

11 Tours

Scenic South America Tours & Cruises
South & Central America

7 Tours

Scenic South Pacific Cruises
South Pacific

7 Cruises

Cruise Fleet View all Inclusions, itineraries, onboard facilities & deck plans of each Scenic cruise ship.

Scenic Eclipse II
Ship Class: Small Cruise Ship

The Scenic Eclipse II, the sister ship of the Scenic Eclipse I, embarks on her maiden voyage in 2023. Eclipse II continues to take ocean cruising to a whole new level – marrying...

Scenic Eclipse I
Ship Class: Small Cruise Ship

Scenic Eclipse takes ocean cruising to a whole new level – marrying luxury, discovery and safety, and giving guests the opportunity to explore above and beyond what was previously imaginable. The first of two 6-star luxury discovery...

Scenic Jasper
Ship Class: River Ship

The Scenic Jasper space-ship will be your gracious floating 5 star hotel as you cruise the rivers of Europe. With a wide ranges of cafes and restaurants to suit your taste, and a range of amenities onboard including a hairdresser, masseuse...

Scenic Crystal
Ship Class: River Ship

The Scenic Crystal space-ship will be your gracious floating hotel as you cruise the waterways of Europe. Onboard you'll have full access to a Wellness area, hair salon, gym, onboard entertainment, free WiFi, electric bicycles and of...

Scenic Reviews View all

4.5
AVG. RATING 4.5 / 5
57 Reviews
5 Star
61%
4 Star
32%
3 Star
2 Star
1 Star
The Ultimate White Xmas   1 , NSW, Australia, Dec 2023
When I booked this I was hoping to get a true white Xmas and this trip met all of my expectations. Xmas Day in Lake Louise was perfect, enough snow to enjoy and play and blue skies to make it picturesque. Scenic Tours are always well structured, excellent in all aspects from accommodation to inclusions and options, pace of travel and most importantly ...read more staff- tour guide and driver.
Luxurious all-inclusive river cruise.   1 , Auckland, New Zealand, Nov 2023
From the moment we embarked on our scenic river adventure, it was evident that Scenic was committed to providing a level of luxury and enrichment that surpassed our expectations. The highlight of our trip was the private concert at Richitenstein Palace - the intimate performance In the opulent Palace setting was a prestigious event and was the epitome ...read more of the Scenic experience.

What stood out to us was the genuine commitment of the Scenic team to go above and beyond for their guests. Cathy, our cruise director was the most cheerful person I’ve ever met. She was full of positive energy which made us feel energized too. The bar staff, all of them were working hard. Ali and Luka were constantly offering drinks to guests. The restaurant staff, the housekeeping staff, the hotel manager, all of them were committed and made a very good team between themselves.

One of the standout features of the Scenic River Cruise was the comprehensive all-inclusive package, from meal to excursion, all day drink onboard to gratuity, everything was included and this made our vacation worry-free experience. In conclusion, we really enjoyed our river cruise. We are grateful for the memories created and can't wait to embark on another adventure with Scenic in the future. We booked our cruise through Georgie of Global Journeys. The booking process went on seamlessly and Georgie is a wonderful agent to deal with.
Danube Delta Discovery     2 , NSW, Australia, Sep 2023
We had a fantastic time on our holiday. The extension at the beginning showed us some different countries and experiences and we enjoyed the scenery, excursions and the small group. Lake Bled was the highlight for me, the little boat to the island and costing the little church and ringing the bells was fun. The waterfalls were amazing but very busy ...read more at the big falls and not at all suitable for people with walking difficulties. As we walked further into the park the crowds were less and I enjoyed the smaller falls more, it was a lovely hike with amazing views. We were well looked after.

The first week and half of the river Cruise was really good, lots of amazing old fortresses, churches, cities to explore. Really enjoyed the enrich events especially the choir in St Sava. The Unfortunately the Danube ran out of water and we spent 3 days in a little Bulgarian port with some not so exciting day trips, we made the most of everything and enjoyed them but it was a bit disappointing. There we many elderly/not so fit people on board who struggled with the steep gang plank caused by the low water levels and couldn’t keep up with the walking on the tours. Crew and food was amazing, so much food and they would make you just about anything you wanted. Bar staff were constantly offering drinks.

We had the cheapest cabin down the bottom, it was fine. We only slept and showered there as you can see so much more from the decks or lounge areas. The seating in the lounge and dining room makes you mingle with other passengers and we made lots of friends and had lots of laughs as we shared photos and stories.
Great Cruise     3 , QLD, Australia, Aug 2023
This was our first river cruise with Scenic and we found it enjoyable but a bit crowded. The food and service are amazing and the tours were great. Scenic's attention to detail is outstanding. The cruise director was absolutely awesome and went out of his way to make everything run like clockwork. We have done 2 Scenic Eclipse trips prior to this and ...read more found this trip to be not as good though.

The cabins are VERY small and the public spaces are limited and crowded. Dinner is at a set time and the usual stampede occurs to get there. We thought we would make more use of the sunroof area but did not as it was either pulled down to get under low bridges or the weather was not good. As we had to be disembarked due to weather we got to experience two different boats and were surprised to find the service levels not as good on the 2nd boat. If you can, get on the Scenic Crystal not the Scenic Ruby. Overall still a great experience though.
Best tour out there for Western Canada & Alaska   3 , NSW, Australia, Aug 2023
For this holiday, we travelled by luxury motor coach, train and cruise ship. On the motor coach portion of the holiday, we had two night stays in the famous Fairmont Hotels at Victoria, Whistler, Jasper, Lake Louise and Banff. Other than Lake Louise, we stayed in standard rooms at these hotels and, even though these are very old hotels, the rooms are ...read more nicely appointed and a comfortable size. At Lake Louise the travel package treats you to a stunning lakeview room, you really have to pinch yourself to realise that the view before you is real!

Between Whistler and Jasper we stayed at the Sun Peaks Grand Hotel for one night as we were putting down kilometers to cross this huge country. The stops along the way and the journey itself was filled with absolutely stunning scenery and the experts, guides and presentations provided in the tour package were interestingly informative and very entertaining. All the meals provided by the hotels as part of the package were very nice and some were fabulous, so we tended to eat "in house" for the few evening meals the package didn't include, after all, the facilities in general and dining in particular at the Fairmonts, was second to none.

On the train part of the journey, we were pampered with two days of delicious drinks and food and more stunning scenery in the glass domed carriages of the Rocky Mountaineer's Goldleaf Service. Now in Vancouver, we had another two night stay at a Fairmont Hotel and, like the motorcoach part of the journey, the tours included in the package were very good.

On to the cruise and again we were treated to the best available, Holland America were the original cruise company to do Alaska and have available to them the best berths at all the ports and best access to the glaciers in the national parks. The rangers from these parks, as well as the ship's crew were very informative and and especially so when there was wildlife to be seen.

Where this holiday is at the top end pricewise for seeing Western Canada and Alaska, the two night stays while journeying into the interior, the Goldleaf service on the Rocky Mountaineer and the Holland America cruise to Alaska make it good value for money for such an immersive travel experience. Also with Scenic, the people we travelled with on this journey were simply a great bunch, enjoyable in every way and most had previously travelled with Scenic, describing the travel company as not only having the best itineraries, but having a knack of having happy travellers on their tours.

The tour director for this tour, Cathy was at the top of her game and this is yet another reason why we would travel with Scenic again. And to book such a holiday, we would be using the help and guidance of Jemma at Global Journeys again.
River cruise that comfortably exceeded our expectations   0 , ACT, Australia, Jul 2023
Scenic Budapest to Amsterdam plus the Croatia/Slovenia pre-tour was absolutely brilliant. Georgie at Global Journeys did her usual wonderful job of organising everything and sorting out a few pre-trip complexities. The trip itself had so many highlights: Lake Bled is paradise on Earth, the food on the cruise was top flight restaurant quality, and ...read more the service was basically perfect. We had feared that the river cruise would be all 'old people': in our early sixties, there seemed to be nearly as many people younger than us as older, and everyone got on famously and got into the experiences at all the (many) stops. The (included) Scenic Choice optionals were fantastic: so many memorable experiences.
An Arctic cruise that ticked all the boxes.     2 , VIC, Australia, Jul 2023
Firstly, thank you to Georgie, who again helped us with the planning of this holiday and was always quick to answer any queries. We chose this cruise because of the itinerary and weren't disappointed. We got to sail 81 degrees north and see puffins, arctic terns, walrus and polar bears in their natural habitat. The ship was brand new and at first ...read more we thought it a bit too "glitzy" but we came to like its varied spaces, lighting, décor and the many dining options. The food and service was outstanding, and our deluxe veranda suite very comfortable.

Our only gripe was the flight from Oslo to Longyearbyen. We were divided into two groups, one group had a chartered direst flight to Longyearbyen and were served a meal. We were on a much longer, regular SAS flight which flew via Tromso, requiring us to go through security and immigration again. Any food or drink required payment, including water. We arrived at the ship much later in the afternoon than the other group.
Gabriel Gate made the cruise extra special!   1 , ACT, Australia, Jun 2023
Tastes of Southern France river cruise was excellent, and the presence of Gabriel Gate as host made a huge difference. He not only entertained us but educated us about French culture, food and wine. We enjoyed all the daily tours and appreciated the fact that they were all short bus trips or walking distance from the boat. Staff were all lovely, ...read more efficient and friendly. Our cruise director Andreaa was super organized and efficient. She was very aware of the limitations of the older guests and described tours in detail so people were well informed of walking conditions, toilets availability, weather. Highly recommended.

Scenic Brochures View all Download the latest Scenic brochures to read at your convenience.

Europe

Europe (2025)

Welcome to a world of ultra-luxury, fabled history and culinary delights. Enjoy many moments of wonder, exploring fascinating cities, history and culture on Europe’s most all-inclusive river cruise. With Scenic, it’s a culinary journey with up to five...more dining experiences, each a delightful tribute to the spectacular regions you’re visiting. It’s more than included touring, it’s personalising your journey and choosing how to spend your days based on your passions. It’s exceptional, exclusive once-in-a-lifetime experiences that will truly immerse you in the local culture and history, enriching your journey.
Japan & South Korea

Japan & South Korea (2024-25)

We invite you on a seamless journey to uncover the wonders of Japan and South Korea, where ancient history and natural beauty converge. Enjoy a handpicked selection of iconic hotel stays, exclusive Scenic Enrich events and a range of Scenic Freechoice...more excursions. From poignant World War memorials to spiritual temples and pagodas, each step unveils a new layer of history, splendour, and warm local hospitality.
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The Scenic Tour & Cruise Experience Choose to travel with Scenic on your next adventure!

Scenic River Cruising Through Asia & Europe
Scenic River Cruising Through Asia & Europe

Board a Scenic Space-Ship through Europe and experience an all-inclusive luxury cruise that inspires you, and fires your senses. You can look forward to luxuriously appointed suites with a queen-size Scenic Slumber Bed, L'Occitane amenities and Mac mini infotainment system.

A choice of up to six dining options, a butler for each and every guest, unlimited complimentary beverages, as well as an in-suite mini bar. Choose the exclusive sightseeing activities that interest you, and that move at your pace and handpicked experiences, exclusive to Scenic guests.

Scenic's 6 Star Eclipse
Scenic's 6 Star Eclipse

Scenic Eclipse I and Scenic Eclipse II set the standard in ocean cruising in terms of technology, size and luxury. Designed to deliver the ultimate experience of a lifetime for only 228 guests, the Scenic Eclipse fleet marry luxury, discovery and safety and give guests the opportunity to explore above and beyond what was previously imaginable.

Scenic's true luxury is all-inclusive including your transfers and gratuities, your exclusive shore excursions including zodiacs, kayaks, e-bikes, and even your mini-bar, you won’t have to worry about money at all.

Scenic's Land & Rail Journeys
Scenic's Land & Rail Journeys

It's not all rivers and oceans, with Scenic's land journeys designed with the same all-inclusive luxury. From history to culture, cuisine to nature.

Scenic's diverse range of Freechoice activities tailor each trip to your interests. Discover charming towns and friendly locals, immense and breathtaking landscapes from all the corners of the globe with Scenic.

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Explore More Explore more Your guide to travelling with Scenic

Scenic Eclipse's East Antarctica Voyages

04 February, 2024

Scenic Eclipse's East Antarctica Voyages

East Antarctica Departing From Australia & NZFrom exploring the Ross Sea, deemed the most pristine piece of ocean left on Earth, to discovering legendary huts made immortal by explorers’ tales, the ultimate adventure awaits you in East Antarctica. With only three departures available...

THE CAPTIVATING WONDERS OF AFRICA WITH SCENIC

21 July, 2023

THE CAPTIVATING WONDERS OF AFRICA WITH SCENIC

Scenic invite you to seamlessly explore Africa’s stunning coastlines, vibrant cities and savannah grasslands to discover the thrilling wildlife of lions, leopards, cheetahs and other fascinating creatures. Savour Scenic's carefully chosen selection of standout hotel stays, exclusive Scenic...

The Magic Of Christmas In The Rockies With Scenic

10 July, 2023

The Magic Of Christmas In The Rockies With Scenic

Canada is a magical place to visit at any time of the year, but never more so than during the winter holiday season. Experience Scenic's 14 Day Christmas in the Rockies tour departing in mid-December from Victoria to Banff and featuring an array of experiences to get you into the festive...

Where Luxury Inclusions Matter Most!

10 May, 2023

Where Luxury Inclusions Matter Most!

Witness the world’s oldest culture and Australia’s dramatic natural beauty on board Scenic Eclipse II.When you are travelling to remote destinations in the furthermost corners of the world, having the luxury of options and inclusions is what makes the difference in your trip. Combining...

Scenic Tour & Cruise FAQ's Frequently asked questions for those considering travelling with Scenic

Do I still receive my Scenic Club benefits if I book with Global Journeys?

Yes, you can read more about Scenic Club here. Your Global Journeys Consultant will help you with any questions you have about this.

Can I book any Scenic trip with Global Journeys?

Yes you can, we have Scenic's full range of tours, ocean cruises and river cruises on our website.

What is Scenic's Platinum Protection Plan?

The Scenic Platinum Protection Plan must be purchased at the time your booking is made and may not be added at a later date. By adding this plan, you are covered if you unable to travel due to health reasons. Read more here.

How do I select my Scenic Freechoice activities?

Scenic Freechoice activities are subject to availability, operational and seasonal factors. All activities can be reserved, subject to availability with the Scenic Tour Director whilst on tour unless otherwise stated. Please note a minimum number of people are required for some activities to operate.

Will there be a Cruise Director on my cruise?

Yes, an experienced English speaking Cruise Director accompanies every trip.

What is the language on the Space-ships?

The language on board is English. All staff, crew and tour guides speak English and all announcements and lectures will be made in English.

What is the electricity on the ships?

On Board Electricity on board all ships is 220V. A power plug adaptor will be required to use small appliances such as electric shavers, clocks, mobile phone chargers etc. We do not provide the required adaptors.

Are there hairdryers in the cabins?

Hairdryers are available in all cabins on river cruise ships.

Are there laundry facilities on the ships?

Limited laundry facilities are available on board cruise vessels and costs are additional and the responsibility of the guests. When stay in a hotel you can generally arrange laundry direct with the hotel although it can be costly. Some hotels will provide an iron for you upon request.

What are the seating arrangements in the Crystal Dining Room?

The Crystal Dining rooms are single dining sessions with open, unreserved seating. The restaurant manager is responsible for the seating arrangements.

When is the Sun Deck open for use?

Due to the number of low bridges on the waterways, there are times where the Sun Deck is not accessible which limits access to the vitality pool. Otherwise, the Sun Deck is available for guests to enjoy at all other times.

What clothing do I need to pack?

We recommend casual and comfortable clothing. Please bring comfortable walking shoes as you will need these daily whilst sightseeing, which includes walking over rough and uneven ground. Closed-in shoes are recommended to keep out the dust and sand. Dinner attire is casual-open-neck shirts, slacks and dresses. Coats and ties may be worn but are not required. For winter months we recommend a warm coat, gloves, water-resistant footwear and an umbrella.

How do I make telephone calls back to Australia?

Phoning home from hotels is expensive. All hotels will add a service charge to the cost of any phone calls you make from your room which can be very high. Ship-to-shore telephone calls can also be extremely expensive. It is always cheaper for you to use public telephones. If you decide to make a direct call to Australia – always remember to dial the international access code 00 followed by the country code 61 (Australia), the area code (without the 0) and your phone number. Local phone cards are available at tobacco stores, kiosks and post offices.

Are there any restrictions on photography?

It may not be possible to use your camera or video camera at some sites of interest, or there may be a fee; please ask your Tour Director for further details. Not everyone might appreciate being on your souvenir home video or holiday photo, so please respect the privacy of local people and cruise directors/local guides by asking permission before filming or taking a photograph. This is especially important in holy places and when visiting indigenous people. If someone is giving a public performance then permission is not usually necessary – but if in doubt, ask or refrain.

Please Note: Photography is prohibited in 'restricted' areas such as bridges, dams, ports and airports as well as military installations or security-sensitive places such as police stations.

Can I photograph or film in museums?

Museums and attractions have differing rules regarding cameras and videos. While some do not allow cameras to be taken in at all, at others a fee or a permit may be required. Your guide will advise of the rules at each particular site and what is required. Please tell your guide if you will require a permit at the time and he/she will purchase a special ticket and advise you accordingly. In many museums, tombs and temples the use of a flash is strictly prohibited.

Can I easily obtain batteries and memory cards?

Generally, yes. In Africa batteries and memory cards are expensive and difficult to obtain in much of Africa so it's best to bring extras with you.

Can you accommodate special dietary requirements?

Yes. If you have not already advised your Global Journeys Tour Consultant at the time of booking please let your Tour Director know at the start of the tour any special needs or dietary requirements so they can be best accommodated. Remember your favourite food items will not always be available.

Please Note: The selection of foods in China, Vietnam and Cambodia for vegetarians and other dietary requirements can lack variety and flavour. Your Tour Director will do their best to make sure your requirements are met however it is recommended that you bring a small supply of energy bars, nuts or dried fruit from home to supplement your diet.

What type of food can I expect?

Your tours cover an amazing range of cultures and landscapes and the food available en route reflects this diversity, which may be different to what you are normally accustomed to. Your dining experiences are certain to enhance your tour and introduce you to the local region and culture.

Are there any foods that I should avoid?

Avoid eating Icecreams sold by roadside vendors, Undercooked meat, Unpeelable fruits or vegetables and reheated food. Remember to make sure fresh fruit has been washed and wash your hands before and after eating.

Is the water safe to drink?

The tap water is safe to drink in the following travel destinations: Canada, Alaska, USA, Australia, Norfolk Island and New Zealand. Do not drink the tap water in the following travel destinations: South America, Antarctica, Africa, China, India, Vietnam and Cambodia.

It is best to not even allow your mouth near tap water, which includes brushing your teeth. Have bottled mineral waters opened in your presence and regard all ice as unsafe. Scenic Tours include bottled water for all touring days, with meals, at your hotel and on board cruises.

When do I advise my choice for Scenic Freechoice Dining?

Scenic Freechoice Dining is subject to availability and is restricted to limited numbers and dining times. Pre-selection of your preferred dining choice will be required prior to your arrival into each applicable destination. Your Tour Director will do all possible to accommodate your choice; unfortunately this may not always be achievable. Scenic Free Choice dining is not available in Eastern Canada.

Do I need to be aware of anything else when dining?

In Canada, Alaska & USA entrées are actually main courses and appetisers are what we would refer to as an entrée. For travel in East Africa, South America & Antarctica, use caution when eating salad items that may have been washed in tap water.

Should I provide Scenic with my health and fitness details prior to travelling?

We will supply a Health and Fitness form in your travel wallet. These forms are designed to provide us with instant information if an emergency should arise. These forms will be returned unopened at the completion of the tour. It is not compulsory to fill out these forms but is strongly recommended.

We strongly recommend a visit to your doctor and dentist prior to your tour. If you are aged 70 or over at the Tour Departure date you must provide us with a doctor's letter confirming you are fit and healthy enough to take part in the specified tour including reference to the itinerary, destinations and tour departure date. You must advise us of any pre-existing medical conditions that might reasonably be expected to increase your risk of requiring medical attention, affect the normal conduct of the tour and/or the enjoyment of other tour members. You will be required to fill in our Health and Fitness form and hand it to your Tour Director on the tour departure date.

What health precautions should I take?

South America & Antarctica:

  • Be careful about the water you drink and only drink bottled water that has not had the seal broken.
  • In the tropics or at high altitude you can get sunburned surprisingly quickly, even through cloud. Use a sunscreen, hat and barrier cream for your nose and lips.
  • Calamine location and aloe vera gel are good for mild sunburn. Eyes should be protected with good quality sunglasses.
  • Wash hands frequently with soap and water and drink only bottled or boiled water, or carbonated drinks in cans or bottles.
  • Avoid tap water, fountain drinks and ice cubes.
  • Eat only thoroughly cooked food or fruits and vegetables you have peeled yourself and don't eat food purchased from street vendors.
  • Don't eat dairy products unless you know they have been pasteurised.
  • If you will be visiting an area where there is risk for malaria, take your malaria prevention medication before, during, and after travel, as directed (see your doctor for a prescription).
  • Protect yourself from insects by remaining in well-screened areas, using repellents (applied liberally at 4-hour intervals) and permethrin-impregnated mosquito nets, and wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants from dusk through dawn.
  • To prevent fungal and parasitic infections, keep feet clean and dry, and do not go barefoot; and don't handle animals (especially monkeys, dogs, and cats), to avoid bites and serious diseases (including rabies and plague).

Africa:

  • Take your malaria prevention medication before, during, and after travel, as directed (see your doctor for a prescription).
  • Protect yourself from insects by remaining in well-screened areas, using repellents (applied liberally at 4-hour intervals) and permethrin-impregnated mosquito nets, and wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants from dusk through dawn.
  • Seasonal outbreaks of cholera in Zambia and Kenya are common. Please consult your GP or travel clinic on precautionary measures.
  • Please ensure you only drink bottled water and avoid ice cubes and raw or undercooked foods.
What vaccinations do I require?

Recommended vaccinations and other health protection measures vary and are subject to change. You must consult your doctor on current vaccinations needed for your destination. Also please refer to the Australian Government's Smart Traveller website for additional information.

South America & Antarctica:

  • Malaria tablets may be recommended by your GP.
  • A Yellow Fever Vaccination Card is required for entry to and exit from many parts of South America including Peru.

Africa:

  • A Yellow Fever Vaccination Card is required for entry into Kenya.
  • Malaria tablets are advisable for all non-African visitors.
  • Seasonal outbreaks of cholera in Zambia and Kenya are common. Please consult your GP or travel clinic on precautionary measures.

Asia & India:

  • If you are entering India from an infected area such as Africa, then you must be vaccinated against Yellow Fever.
  • Hepatitis (both A and B, depending on your individual circumstances), meningitis and typhoid shots are also recommended, as is a booster shot for tetanus.
What sort of fitness level do I require to travel?

We welcome you if you have a disability or other special need, provided you are able to care for yourself or are accompanied by a companion capable of providing all the assistance you require. Please note that although we will use reasonable endeavours to provide you with all the activities on your Itinerary, depending on your disability, you may not be able to participate in every activity and the Tour Director will have the right to refuse your participation if the Tour Director believes your health and safety or the health and safety of other passengers may be impacted by your participation. You must advise Global Journeys of any disability, medical condition or dietary requirement at the time of booking.

It is not possible for large coaches to be used for some city sightseeing therefore many towns and cities will be visited by way of walking tours and accordingly, a reasonable level of fitness is required. For trips to South America, Africa & Asia, a good level of fitness is required.

Can I travel in a wheelchair?

We regret that we are unable to accept wheelchair bound guests. Guests who travel with a collapsible wheelchair may also encounter some difficulties due to the structure of old buildings with access to some establishments not being convenient for wheelchair use. Facilities for the disabled in general may be limited with many areas being pedestrian only.

What sort of first aid and medical items should I bring with me?

It may be useful to bring a supply of basic items with you. A first aid kit may include band-aids, antiseptic, aspirin, cough medicine, throat lozenges, cold and flu medication, diarrhoea medication, mild laxative, eye ointments/drops for minor infections, a general antibiotic and any special medications you may need personally. Please remember to bring a letter from your doctor or a copy of the prescription for any medication that you are carrying with you.

Will my special requirements be met throughout the tour?

Your special requirements have been passed onto all suppliers. Special requirements refer to airline seating, special dietary and medical needs. These requirements are on a request basis only and cannot be guaranteed by Scenic. We strongly advise that you reconfirm your meal requests with the Scenic Tour Director upon joining your tour.

Can I smoke on tour?

A "non-smoking" room often means the establishment has merely removed the ashtray. Where possible we have requested non-smoking rooms and non-smoking sections of restaurants. On board the Lake Nasser and Nile Cruise Ships, smoking is only permitted on the outer decks. Smoking is not allowed in cabins or in public areas. Smoking is not permitted on motor coaches used during the land touring and shore excursions.

Where should I be worried about altitude sickness?

Some South American cities such as Cuzco, the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu are situated at altitudes of 3,200 metres above sea level or higher. At these levels, altitude sickness (caused by lack of oxygen at high altitudes) affects most people to some extent. Mild symptoms include headache, lethargy, dizziness, difficulty sleeping and loss of appetite. AMS may become severe without warning. Please consult your doctor before departure to ensure you have an adequate level of fitness and health.

How much luggage can I bring on a Scenic tour or cruise?

The luggage allowance whilst on a tour or cruise is one suitcase with a maximum size of 76 x 53 x 28 cms (30 x 21 x 11'') and weight of 20 kilograms. You may also carry a small backpack or the Scenic Tours issued overnight bag. Additional bags beyond the luggage allowance may incur additional charges and are to be settled directly to the hotel or as required.

South America & Antarctica: We recommend when travelling to South America that you use hard suitcases that can be securely locked and that your hand luggage is a bag with a shoulder strap that is easy to carry or a robust backpack. If your tour visits Machu Picchu, you are required to pack down to hand luggage for one night's accommodation with a maximum weight for overnight luggage of 5 kilograms. Remaining luggage will be stored in the Sacred Valley. Excess luggage will incur a charge and may not travel on the same train.

Africa: When travelling in Kenya you need to take a small soft bag to pack down into, as suitcases are unable to be taken in safari vehicles. Suitcases will be stored in Nairobi whilst touring and returned to you at Nairobi Airport

Is porterage included?

Handling and porterage of your luggage (as per the luggage allowance above) is included in your tour. Additional bags beyond the allowance may be charged or it may be the responsibility of the passenger to forward the baggage to another destination. Luggage handling is not included during any independent or non-escorted touring. In this situation, luggage handling and porterage will need to be organised directly with the hotel porters.

Are there any extra airline baggage fees?

Most domestic carriers within the USA and Canada have introduced new baggage fees and charges either for the first piece of luggage and/or additional pieces. Our policy for passengers travelling on our international tours permits one piece of luggage regardless of whether the airlines have any further free luggage allowance. If you are travelling through on a domestic connection as part of your international ticket, they may allow the on carriage of your luggage to your final destination free of charge, but this is not guaranteed. If a separate domestic USA/Canada flight and/or ticket is necessary on your itinerary, the airline may charge you a baggage fee and this may vary for each airline.

Should I attach the Scenic luggage label provided prior to departure?

No, please wait until you have claimed your luggage at your destination airport. This will ensure airline companies will not tear off this tag, as it is required to easily identify your luggage for transfer services and hotels.

What clothing should I pack?

In General:

  • Casual sportswear for daytime that can be mixed/matched/layered
  • Jumper/warm jacket/gloves/hat/scarf for cooler mornings and nights
  • Swimwear
  • Comfortable walking shoes with rubber soles for good grip
  • Sunglasses and sun hat
What is the appropriate dress for visiting holy places?

When visiting churches and monasteries, modest dress is required i.e. no shorts, miniskirts or sleeveless tops.

Turkey and Morocco: As these are Muslim countries and you need to dress conservatively. To visit mosques, clean and modest dress is appreciated and often required. Thighs, shoulders and tops of upper arms should not be shown. Men also need to cover their bare legs and cannot enter mosques wearing shorts. Some holy places will supply scarves for tourists to borrow.

Egypt and Dubai: Being conservative Muslim nations, modesty in dress is expected. In religious buildings, both men and women need to cover their shoulders and legs. Some holy places will supply scarves for tourists to borrow.

India: Conservative and modest dress is expected - it is recommended you cover as much skin as possible. In religious buildings, both men and women need to cover their shoulders and legs. Women should also wear baggy clothes that do not emphasise their contours. In mosques, churches and temples it is obligatory to take off your shoes.

What else do I need to pack?

The following list may be useful when packing for your trip:

  • Airline tickets and passport (plus extra photocopies and passport photos)
  • Travel and travel insurance documentation, and itinerary (make a copy for your emergency contact)
  • Travellers cheques/cash/debit or credit card and emergency contact numbers if lost or stolen, plus local currency for first day and a money belt
  • Spare memory cards and batteries for your digital camera or film in clear plastic containers
  • Only those keys needed on return
  • Personal medication and prescriptions, extra glasses/contacts and prescriptions
  • Sunscreen, lip balm and insect repellent
  • Pocket calculator, address book, journal and pens
  • Tissues and anti-bacterial hand wipes or hand sanitiser
  • Raincoat or umbrella
  • Plastic bags for dirty laundry, washing powder and elastic clothesline
  • Travel alarm clock, earplugs and sleep mask
  • Adaptor plugs, mobile phone charger, battery charger
  • Face cloth / flannel
  • Small torch and batteries (there is minimal lighting at remote locations)
  • Overnight bag (for overnight rail journeys)
  • First aid kit
  • Binoculars (for Africa & Middle East tours)

Please Note: All hotels on tour provide towels, irons, hair dryers, soap and shampoo within the room.

What currency will I need to take?

Most countries visited in Europe will use the Euro although some still have their own local currency (eg. Scandinavia, Switzerland & Baltic States). For small purchases ashore or in small towns, local currency is advantageous. Many locations accept major credit cards. ATM machines are located onshore at some stops. Prior to departure you should confirm your ATM card and PIN will work overseas. All purchases on board are charged to your shipboard account. The on board currency on river cruise ships is the Euro. Shipboard accounts may be paid by Euro or credit card.

How much foreign money should I bring with me?

Before You Depart on your trip, it is a good idea to obtain a small amount of cash in the currency of the country you arrive in. If it is not possible to obtain the currency you require, then it can be purchased at the airport on arrival. Many locations will accept travellers cheques or credit cards. For incidentals and small vendors we recommend getting some local currency.

Are all credit cards accepted on all legs of the tour?

Most credit cards charge a fee (about 3%) for currency exchange, which means that every time you use your credit card, you add this fee to the price of goods and services. Check with your credit card company before you go to see what their policy is. It may be worthwhile to take more than one type of credit card as not all types of credit cards are accepted. Before travelling ensure your credit cards are valid for at least 30 days after the completion of the tour.

It is recommended you contact your bank before leaving Australia to advise that you will be using your credit card overseas and to check that you can withdraw cash on your card abroad. Be prepared to show identification (i.e. your passport) when making a transaction with your credit card. Ask your credit card company for the emergency number (suitable for international access) to report loss.

Does Scenic cover tips?

Yes, Scenic Tours has pre-paid certain tips and gratuities for you, including all drivers, local guides, porters (1 piece of luggage only), and meals included in your tour. Please note: Tipping is NOT included for meals, drinks, taxis and transfers that are not included as part of the tour (including Asian stopovers). As a guide for taxis, tip 10-15% of the fare on the meter. We recommend you pre-negotiate taxi fares to avoid unpleasant surprises at the end of the journey. In restaurants and bars, tip 10-15% of the total bill. If a service charge has already been added there is no need to tip as much or at all.

Who will be escorting the tour?

Your holiday is a special time and our Tour Directors and Cruise Directors make all the difference. From your very first day their warm greetings and professionalism signal the start of a wonderful rapport.

Europe: For all land tours and cruises you will have the services of a Tour Director. Whilst on your cruise you will be taken care of by a Cruise Director. Our Directors have your best interests at heart and will take care of all arrangements for you.

Canada, Alaska & USA: There will be an additional Cruise Representative on board our cruise ships, however it may be a different person to the representative escorting the land portion. The Cruise Representative is available if you require information, cruising tips, or have any questions during Hospitality Desk hours, which are assigned at the discretion of each ship. The Cruise Representative can also be contacted at any time through the ship's cabin-to-cabin telephone. Watch for the newsletter that our Scenic Cruise Representative will deliver to your cabin the first evening on board, which will include details of Hospitality Desk Hours, Welcome Presentation and Disembarkation Meeting times and locations.

Asia & India: There will be a Cruise Director who will coordinate all on board activities for our Yangtze River cruise, however your Tour Director will be travelling on board as well and will be available for your convenience if you require information, cruising tips or have any questions.

What level of quality is the booked accommodation?

Europe: Europe's tourist industry is centuries old and its hotels very often reflect the varied traditions and cultures of each country, so do not expect European hotels to be the same as those back home. You may find hotel rooms are slightly smaller. Most European hotel rooms do not have tea/coffee or ironing facilities in the room.

South America & Antarctica: Single rooms are designed for one bed and as such in some locations are smaller than twin rooms. Scenic cannot guarantee that clients will receive a Double Bed at all properties due to limited availability with this configuration, and in some cases, clients may be accommodated in twin share rooms.

Asia & India: In India, some of the hotels you will be staying in are heritage properties (former Royal Palaces and Forts) where no two rooms are the same. These grand heritage hotels were once the residence of the Royal families of these areas. This is a unique opportunity to experience the past lifestyle of Indian Royalty.

What time can I check-in to my hotel?

If your flight arrives before noon (usually 14.00 is check-in time) at the city where your tour starts, the hotel may not have your room available until mid afternoon. We endeavour to ensure that rooms are ready for your arrival times however this is not always possible and is outside our control. Some people use this time to explore the neighbourhood, shop or relax in the hotel public areas. On arrival at your hotel, please check to see if your Tour Director has already posted tour information in the foyer.

Canada, Alaska & USA: In many locations, hotel check-in is generally between the hours of 15.00-17.00. If you arrive early, we suggest you ask your hotel to store your luggage so you can explore the area. You can also rest in the guest lounge or lobby, or request an early check-in or reserve a pre-night.

Egypt & Middle East: You are required to have at least 4 copies of your passport when checking in to your hotel in Egypt.

Asia & India: The usual check-in times are as follows: China - 14.00, India - 12.00 (midday), Vietnam - 14.00 and Cambodia - 14.00.

Will I be pre-assigned a cabin?

Cruise lines do not always pre-allocate cabin numbers. If your cabin number is not shown on your documentation, your cabin will be assigned when you board the ship. Cabin allocation is at the discretion of the ship, your stateroom number is not guaranteed/confirmed until cruise check-in, even if a stateroom number has already been provided in your documentation. From time to time, cruise liners may upgrade passengers at no additional cost, yet this is on a random basis only.

Are there likely to be changes to my itinerary?

On certain occasions, for operational or local reasons, it may be necessary to change your hotel accommodation or a brochured attraction in a particular location. If this does occur, you will be notified of such changes as soon as possible.

Are laundry facilities available?

Laundry can be arranged direct with the hotel although it can be costly. Some hotels will provide an iron for you upon request.

Where will I be seated on board the coach?

To ensure all passengers have the opportunity to enjoy front and window seats, a daily seat rotation system is employed on our coaches. It works on a scatter system where you are rotated around the coach by numbers, which allows you to get to know other members of the group.

Airport transfers are only available on the first and last day of your trip and at times that Scenic designate. Transfers outside these times will be at your expense and must be secured by your own arrangements. Passengers who have purchased Scenic's pre or post hotel accommodation and airfares (through Scenic & Global Journeys) will be provided airport transfers to/from their hotel in the tour start or end city only, on the day of the pre or post accommodation booking.

No refund will be given for unused transfers. If you miss the pre-booked transfer, you will be responsible for making your own way to the Tour departure point, at your own expense. Airport transfers may be group transfers scheduled to coincide with multiple flight arrival times.

Private transfers on arrival and departure are included for guests who are river cruising in Royal & Royal Panorama Suites, plus Scenic Elcipse guests who book pre/post accommodation. Private transfers are not available in all locations.

Terms & Conditions All the boring small print. We recommend you read them, as no one likes surprises!