Before booking a cruise
On this page, you will find information you need to know before booking a cruise holiday. From our experience, we know that some clients find it difficult to assess the difficulty of a cruise. A trip to the United States or Japan is not as demanding as a trip to Italy or a flight to Majorca. We recommend that you read this information before booking your cruise – its purpose is not to discourage you from travelling, but to provide you with accurate information about what you can expect on your trip.
What is sailing?
We have been encountering this question since the very beginning of our activity in the field of cruise holidays. We try to explain to our clients that cruises are not so expensive that they cannot afford them, but also that you are not just sailing on the sea, but above all discovering new places, countries, cultures and religions. All this in perfect surroundings, with excellent cuisine and entertainment. If you believe these words and set sail with us, you will experience a truly different kind of holiday... And this is the slogan we came up with for the market.
We have been operating in the travel industry for over a decade and are confident that we have enough experience to ensure you have an enjoyable holiday. Over the course of our long history, we have gained so much experience, through ups and downs, that we can provide you with relevant information and advice about sea cruises. Every sentence, every word in our catalogue and on our website is backed up by stories, events and insights from our clients. The return rate of our clients for cruises is an incredible 86%. So, basically, either you'll get hooked on cruises and fall in love with them, or you'll never go on one again.
We want to be honest with you, which is why we have prepared this page to inform you not only about the wonderful things you can experience on our cruises, but also about the fact that some procedures, destinations and places you will visit are different from our way of life and could spoil your holiday. Yes, we know it's like a car salesman telling you in advance that his car is nice and has a good engine, but you can't put anything in the boot. Nevertheless, we value our clients so much that we want to draw your attention to this information, which we consider important.
Friends, this information is not intended to discourage you from sailing, but on the contrary, we want to inform you in advance about everything you might encounter during your travels. All the information provided here, which you will receive in more detail in your Pre-Cruise Instructions, is based on our many years of experience in travelling and gradually avoiding mistakes and crisis situations. We firmly believe that you will appreciate our intentions.
Download: What is sailing at sea (PDF catalogue)
Cruise price
A cruise is truly a completely different kind of holiday. You will either fall in love with cruising or never set foot on a ship again. There is no in-between. And we are really happy that our clients love to come back for more. Our travel agency started from absolute zero. The first cruises were travelled by private cars, and our first coaches were only partially full. The beginnings were very difficult. But we believed in this way of spending holidays and, above all, we were clear about our business strategy: we don't want to sell cheap cruises. We want to sell cruises with travel agency services so that clients really feel like they are on holiday.
Today, we can see that this was the right business policy. That is why you will not find very low-priced cruises with us – because every discount and low price comes at a cost. We believe that there is no point in going on a cruise shorter than 5 days, because the ratio of the investment made and the time lost travelling will not result in a quality holiday. Our trips with transport and a representative are therefore for a minimum of 7 nights or more.
The price of the cruise is also a decisive factor. If someone offers you a 7-night cruise for CZK 6,000, common sense dictates that you should not buy it. You cannot buy a good holiday for that money. We often meet clients who buy a cruise to the Caribbean for CZK 20,000, for example. Again, use your common sense: a flight to the USA alone costs a similar amount, so you cannot expect to get a cruise for that price. Therefore, when choosing a cruise, think carefully or give us a call; we will be happy to share our experience with you.
We have published several catalogues, created several videos from our cruises, and attend trade fairs and lectures. We often write articles, reports and the like, with a clear goal – to give you the best possible idea of what you can experience on a cruise. From the moment you leave home until your return. Our offer includes our personal experiences from cruises accumulated over the last ten years. We believe that you will find this information useful on your cruise with CK Riviera Tour. Your cruise will then be a truly unforgettable experience.
A cruise is not a hotel stay
However, before you decide to go on a sea voyage, you need to realise one basic fact: you are not going on holiday to a hotel complex or on a sightseeing tour.
You are going on a boat trip. And there are some pitfalls associated with this that need to be taken into account:
A ship is a machine. You are accommodated on a ship, and a ship is a machine. Therefore, it is possible that during the voyage you may feel vibrations or hear noise from the machines and engines in your cabin. Although this occurs only to a minimal extent, it must be accepted and you cannot request a change of cabin, complain about this fact, or demand changes, discounts, etc.
The weather is the weather. No one can really control the weather, so it may happen that the ship cannot dock at one of the planned ports due to adverse weather conditions. Wind has the greatest impact on docking. The shipping company may change the originally planned time of the ship's docking in the port due to weather or operational reasons. In such a case, the ship continues its voyage. It may also happen that the shipping company knows in advance that bad weather will hit the area and the captain decides to change the course and itinerary for safety reasons. Please note that in such cases, there is no entitlement to any compensation, discount on the price of the voyage or any other claims arising from this situation.
Smoking on board. Fire is one of the greatest risks when sailing at sea. Therefore, smoking is only permitted in designated areas. The smoking room for cigarettes and cigars is usually located on decks 6-7, and smoking is also usually permitted in designated areas on the pool deck, in the bar at the stern of the ship, or in designated areas. There is also a smoking area near the disco. Please note that smoking is strictly prohibited in cabins and on balconies!
Cruise itineraries. Cruise itineraries are prepared by the cruise company up to three years in advance, and our travel agency creates individual tours approximately two years before the planned departure. During this time, the political and, above all, security situation in the region may change. We would like to point out that the cruise company and the RIVIERA TOUR travel agency are entitled to make operational changes to the programme and services provided before and during the trip if it is not possible to secure the originally agreed programme and services. For trips to regions where the current security situation may require a change in the route or cruise, there is no breach of the travel contract if the deviation in the cruise route does not exceed 50% of the originally planned cruise route. The customer acknowledges that any such deviation from the originally planned cruise route is made for the sake of their safety and that it is included in the tour programme. These provisions also apply to other services related to this situation.
Unforeseen circumstances. It is important to realise that a cruise is a specific type of travel product. Customers are fully aware that during the cruise they will visit several countries and continents and that situations may arise which the travel agency has no control over. These include, in particular, force majeure situations, changes in the security and health situation in the country, natural disasters, earthquakes, tornadoes, floods, infections, viral infections and coronaviruses. It may also happen that some countries may refuse to allow the ship to dock for any reason or declare a quarantine, etc. The travel agency has no influence over these situations, and the customer is fully aware of these situations and risks. In such cases, the customer is not entitled to any discount on the price of the trip, refund or cancellation of the trip. This also applies to the purchase of partial services, such as excursions at destinations.
Always be on time for the ship. The fundamental difference between a holiday in a hotel and on a ship is that the ship will never wait for you. This fact must always be taken into account. It is essential that you return to the ship on time according to the shipping company's instructions. Please note that the itinerary sent in the check-in instructions and on the boarding pass is only indicative. Pay close attention to the information provided when disembarking from the ship. Boarding usually takes place no later than 30 minutes before the ship leaves the port. If you miss the boarding, the ship will not wait for you. If you miss boarding and the ship departs without you, you are not entitled to any compensation. All costs associated with this situation will be charged to the late customer. Therefore, it is better to be on the ship an hour early than five minutes late.
Air conditioning. Be very careful with this. Especially if you are flying to the Caribbean, you are flying for warmth. And in America, everything is air-conditioned. Our bodies are really not used to this. Shops, restaurants, taxis, buses, airports, aeroplanes – everything is air-conditioned to an unbelievable 20 degrees. If you walk out of a hot street, where it is over thirty degrees, into a cold shop and do this several times in a row, you are likely to end up with a cold at best, and usually it affects your vocal cords. Therefore, we recommend wearing a light jumper and a hat or scarf on your head on planes or buses. The air conditioning in planes and buses is on all the time. We recommend turning off the air conditioning in hotels.
Air conditioning is also used on MSC CRUISES ships in all destinations, with common areas usually air-conditioned to 22 degrees. Among other things, this helps prevent the spread of viruses and infections. We therefore recommend that you wear a jumper or scarf, especially when visiting theatres. The temperature difference is particularly noticeable in the summer months. Please be careful when moving quickly between environments, especially in the summer months or in destinations with high temperatures such as TUNIS, UAE, Caribbean, Brazil, Argentina and Japan. The hot concrete in ports and the rapid transition to air-conditioned spaces on ships can cause health problems in the form of colds for people who are susceptible to these changes. Therefore, we really recommend that you keep these situations in mind and always carry at least a scarf with you.
Sailing at sea
We decided that we would no longer plan seaside holidays for you that would involve the same activities in one place. Instead, we want to offer you unique cruises to multiple destinations so that you can enjoy the best of many, often exotic corners of the world. You will no longer follow your hotel, but the hotel will follow you. And not just any hotel, but a luxury floating hotel from MSC Cruises, where dreams come true. You can choose from several ships in the MSC Cruises fleet, including the MSC World Europa, MSC Grandiosa, MSC Seaside, MSC Splendida, MSC Fantasia, MSC Magnifica and others.
CURRENT MAP OF SHIPPING ROUTES AROUND THE WORLD
Can you imagine a romantic sunset in the Mediterranean with a glass of fine wine and the scenery of a ship leaving the harbour? If not, choose from our range of cruises and we will make your dream come true. That's exactly what our cruise will be like. On board, you will not only find gastronomic specialities from around the world, but also many entertaining programmes and musical performances. Every day, you can choose a programme to suit your mood; no more fixed itineraries. We don't forget about the little ones either, who are also well taken care of during the cruise. A truly varied programme awaits them in the children's corner. Every evening, you will fall asleep with a sense of calm, looking forward to the next day, when you will once again discover the culture of another city, country or even continent. Only with us can you experience up to five countries in just one week, all without having to move anywhere, as your hotel follows you. You can discover the Mediterranean, the islands of Croatia, or even experience a romantic trip to Russia.
We also offer cruises to many other countries. Sea cruises are our speciality, and we hope you will be satisfied with our range of trips. We have tried to prepare each cruise to the best of our knowledge and belief so that we can offer you only the best of each location, because we know that a satisfied customer will be happy to return. A sightseeing cruise can also be a great gift for your friends and acquaintances, or as a honeymoon with a wedding ceremony on board the ship. It is also a great romantic gift for a wedding anniversary or a graduation gift. Call us, we will advise you and prepare a gift voucher.
The fact that we truly mean these words is also evidenced by our clients' reviews, which can be found at
What to watch out for
Check your visas and documents
Before each cruise/trip, you must check the validity of your documents and visas (ESTA, ETA, etc.) according to the currently valid rules of all countries you will visit during your trip (including airport transfers). If you do not have a valid visa or documents, the shipping company has the right to refuse you entry onto the ship. In such a case, you are not entitled to any compensation, discount or damages.
We would like to strongly emphasise this fact to clients who are citizens of other countries (especially Vietnam and Ukraine) who purchase a cruise or tour from RIVIERA TOUR. Their visa requirements may be completely different from those of other cruise/tour participants, and different rules for entering the countries visited and different visa requirements may apply to them.
For more information, visit this special page: Passports, documents and visas
How to choose a cruise
Destinations
If you have never been on a cruise before and are considering one, we definitely recommend starting with a cruise with transport and a representative. Cruises are a truly different way to spend your holiday, and with your representative, everything will be hassle-free, without having to think about what to do, procedures and the like. Our representatives will take care of everything. If you are choosing a cruise for the first time, we recommend the eastern or western Mediterranean. You can find the current offer here. But be careful. If you are considering exotic destinations, please pay close attention to the information about the destinations listed below.
Videos from cruises
If you would like to see what MSC ships look like or what the procedures on board are like, take a look at our videos. Some of them are older, but they provide a good overview of the procedures and life on board and give you an idea of what to expect on your cruise. You can find our instructional video about cruising at sea in Czech here.
Health restrictions
As mentioned above, sailing at sea is not like staying at a hotel. All services are interconnected in terms of time, and in the event of a misjudgement of the situation, delays, etc., this can have unpleasant consequences for the client. It is also necessary, as this is sailing at sea, to comply with certain rules and regulations to ensure the safe passage of the voyage.
Older people and their health
Some older travellers are unable to realistically assess their health. Cruising at sea has its own specific characteristics, and medical fitness is a guarantee of your safe voyage. For these reasons, we require confirmation of medical fitness for cruising from all persons born in 1944 or earlier. Please submit the confirmation form to your GP and send it to the travel agency when signing the contract. Without proof of medical fitness, the travel agency has the right to cancel the trip.
Pregnant women
Pregnant women must always have a doctor's certificate before boarding the ship. The ship is not adequately equipped for childbirth or for dealing with complications during pregnancy. Therefore, women who are 24 weeks or more into their pregnancy cannot be accepted on board the ship. Pregnant women should always consult their doctor about their condition before boarding the ship.
Dialysis patients
Guests undergoing dialysis can travel as regular clients, bringing all the medication and equipment they normally need for their condition on board. Appropriate medical treatment is available through healthcare facilities. This service must always be requested separately from the travel agency. Persons undergoing dialysis cannot participate in cruises with transport and a representative, only individual cruises with their own transport to the port.
Clients with special dietary requirements
Clients with food intolerances or allergies are requested to indicate this when booking their cruise using the Special Needs Form and to confirm their requirements at reception or with the restaurant manager after boarding. If you make this request in advance, the crew will be happy to help you choose dishes that do not contain substances that could cause an allergic reaction. Clients on a gluten-free diet will appreciate that the MSC Preziosa, MSC Splendida, MSC Fantasia, MSC Magnifica, MSC Musica, MSC Orchestra, MSC Poesia and MSC Divina are certified by the Italian Association (AIC) for the preparation and serving of gluten-free meals.
Wheelchair users on cruises
MSC and its employees have always been attentive to the needs of guests and constantly strive to offer the best services that meet international accessibility standards. Guests with various disabilities can submit their special requirements to the company by completing the appropriate form (Special Needs Form). This form is available from our travel agency upon request. It is important that these requirements are submitted at the time of booking so that they can be registered and prepared in advance. It is not possible to process them retrospectively.
Cabins for disabled passengers, equipped primarily for guests with disabilities or limited mobility and orientation, are available on every ship. There is a limited number of these cabins on board. Cabins for disabled passengers are larger and more spacious, providing more room for movement than standard cabins, and also have extra equipment and facilities adapted for these guests. For cruises with transport and a representative by air or bus, only on request, provided that the guest is able to board and alight from the bus and move independently at airports. Maximum 1 person per group.
Clients with reduced mobility
All decks, public areas and tenders (lifeboats) are designed to be as accessible as possible for guests with reduced mobility. For safety reasons, clients with disabilities may be asked to be accompanied by a carer (depending on the specific route). Wheelchairs are also available on all ships for guests to use when embarking and disembarking or in case of emergency. Guests who require continuous use of a wheelchair must bring their own wheelchair and necessary equipment with them. For cruises with transport and a representative by air or bus, this is only available on request, provided that the guest is able to board and disembark from the bus and move independently at airports. Maximum 1 person per group.
Blind clients
For blind clients, 5* ships such as Preziosa, Divina, Splendida and Fantasia are equipped with Braille signage in public areas, lifts and at cabin entrances for better orientation. Guests with this disability may also be asked to be accompanied by a carer or guide dog for their safety. Blind clients cannot participate in cruises with transport and a representative, only cruises with their own transport.
Hearing impaired
Clients with hearing impairments must always travel with an escort or carer. Passengers with partial hearing impairments may travel alone, but only if they request the installation of a TDD kit in their cabin. This kit is available in limited quantities on all ships and includes a light and vibration device, a text telephone and an analogue alarm clock. Wireless amplifiers and indicator lights are available for these clients in the theatre, public areas and lifts. Hearing-impaired clients cannot participate in cruises with transport and a delegate, only cruises with their own transport.
Choosing a boat
In particular, clients who have travelled with us ten times or more no longer choose their cruise based on the destination, but rather on the ship. The new MSC ships are truly incredible colossi, floating cities where you don't even have to disembark for a whole week; exploring and enjoying the ship is really a "job" for the whole week. How to choose a ship in our opinion?
LIRICA*** class ships (MSC Lirica, MSC Sinfonia, MSC Opera)
These are relatively small ships, the smallest at MSC Cruises. They are not as luxuriously equipped, but they offer a true sea voyage experience. In short, they are a kind of "retro" cruise. What you will appreciate is the fact that orientation is very simple, with no conveniences or requirements for apps, reservations, and the like. Given the size of the ship, you won't get lost, and there aren't that many people on board. What you will appreciate is the friendly and almost family-like atmosphere on the ship.
MUSICA**** class ships (MSC Musica, MSC Magnifica, MSC Orchestra, MSC Poesia)
These are mid-range ships. Our delegates love them. They are very nice ships, not too big, and the service on board is usually very good. And again, what you will appreciate is the fact that it is very easy to find your way around, with no frills or requirements for apps, reservations and the like. Given the size of the ship, you won't have to walk far, and there aren't that many people on board. What you will appreciate again is the friendly and almost family-like atmosphere on board.
FANTASIA***** class ships (MSC Fantasia, MSC Splendida, MSC Divina, Preziosa)
So now we have a higher level. Beautiful ships, amazing interiors, spacious. The ships offer lots of other activities during the cruise and are at the top of the LIRICA and MUSICA class ranking. The ships are really bigger in terms of size, so you have to expect a larger number of clients on board, which affects the service at the bars during peak times events (after the theatre...) and when boarding and disembarking. Nevertheless, travelling on these ships is very pleasant.
MERAVIGLIA***** class ships (MSC Meraviglia, MSC Bellissima, MSC Grandiosa, MSC Virtuosa, MSC Euribia)
This takes us to a completely different level. With approximately 6,000 guests, we are entering a new dimension of cruise travel – experiential tourism, which is based not only on visiting destinations, but above all on enjoying the cruise itself. The ship offers a large number of experience restaurants, a chocolate shop, a circus and the like. However, these services are subject to an additional charge. Therefore, if you want to enjoy a cruise on such a ship, we recommend that you budget for additional expenses (experience restaurants approx. €30-40 per person, special performances, circuses from €15 per person - usually 2-3 performances during the cruise). These ships make extensive use of electronic booking systems, menus and drinks lists in apps and the like. Although RIVIERA TOUR also has these items available in printed form, these ships are primarily intended for younger clients with language skills, but they can also be managed with the assistance of our representative. The disadvantage of these ships is the very small number of freely accessible bars with seating.
SEASIDE***** class ships (MSC Seaside, MSC Seaview, MSC Seashore, MSC Seascape)
Designed especially for warm weather, it offers plenty of open spaces where you can enjoy the sun over the sea to your heart's content. On a holiday with Riviera Tour, including transport and a representative, you can enjoy the sun over the sea to your heart's content. Guests can enjoy a wide range of restaurants, bars and shops. Another unique feature is the 360° promenade, which is even glass-covered in some places. This space around the perimeter of the ship is designed as a recreational area where guests can walk, eat, drink, shop and enjoy the beautiful views all around them. MSC Seaside also offers several different lounges, including the exclusive MSC Yacht Club. Guests can also choose from a range of suites and family suites. By changing the design, including moving the engine room to the centre of the ship, the designers have achieved greater stability. MSC Seaside is therefore easier for the crew to manoeuvre and barely rocks during the voyage, which Riviera Tour clients will certainly appreciate. These ships make extensive use of electronic booking systems, menus and drinks lists in apps, and the like. Although RIVIERA TOUR also has these items available in printed form, these ships are primarily intended for younger clients with language skills, but they can also be managed with the assistance of our representative. From our point of view, probably the most beautiful ships MSC CRUISES
WORLD*****+ class ships (MSC World Europa, MSC World America)
Travel of the future. Upon launch, it will become the largest ship in the world in terms of passenger capacity. It will offer its visitors an unprecedented 22 decks, 2,626 cabins, more than 40,000 m² of public space and many never-before-seen attractions. According to MSC Cruises, this "ultra-modern city on the sea" will push the boundaries of entertainment at sea and, when launched in early December 2022, will set a new standard for cruise ships. It is also the first MSC ship to run on liquefied natural gas. With a capacity of approximately 7,000 guests, we are entering a new dimension of cruise travel – experiential tourism, which is based not only on visiting destinations, but above all on enjoying the cruise itself. The ship offers a large number of experience restaurants, a chocolate shop, its own brewery, an ice rink and a mega slide. However, these services are subject to an additional charge. Therefore, if you want to enjoy a cruise on such a ship, we recommend that you budget for additional expenses (experience restaurants approx. €30-40 per person, special performances, circuses from €15 per person - usually 2-3 performances during the cruise). These boats make extensive use of electronic booking systems, menus and drinks lists in apps, and the like. Although RIVIERA TOUR also has these items available in printed form, these ships are primarily intended for younger clients with language skills, but they can also be managed with the assistance of our representative. The disadvantage of these ships is the very small number of freely accessible bars with seating.
Information about ships – click here
Read what we write to you
We have prepared a lot of useful information for you. We sometimes encounter clients who complain about hotels in the USA, for example, but have not read our information or departure instructions at all. That is why we believe it is really important to pay attention to our instructions and information. It can make your holiday more enjoyable or even lead you to choose a completely different destination than you originally planned.
Insurance
A chapter unto itself. We offer travel insurance from Slavia a.s. for all voyages, primarily because our insurance is tailored specifically for cruise voyages. Most insurance companies exclude air rescue on the high seas from their insurance terms and conditions, or limit it to, for example, 5 miles from land.Such insurance is then absolutely useless to you in an emergency. In a crisis situation, when a patient must be transported from the ship to the mainland by air, insurance is always necessary. Otherwise, the air rescue service will not take off. That is why our insurance is more expensive. If you have insurance for £20 for the whole week or, as our clients often say, "I'm insured on my card", this is a huge problem in an emergency.
Medical treatment abroad is very expensive, especially in the USA. Just to give you an idea, pneumonia in Madeira costs around CZK 500,000, rescue and treatment for a heart attack in France costs around CZK 4,000,000, and treatment for a stroke in St. Marten in the Caribbean costs CZK 7,500,000. Therefore, we strongly emphasise the real necessity of taking out appropriate travel insurance. If you are not insured through our travel agency, we will require proof of travel insurance before issuing your boarding pass. Travel insurance is a prerequisite for participation in the cruise. Everything about insurance - click here
Delegate on the cruise
We have truly experienced cruise representatives. Do you have communication issues, are you not proficient in foreign languages, or do you lack the courage to travel to the port on your own? Our representative is here for you. What needs to be emphasised:
The representative is not a tour guide, but will provide you with assistance at your destinations and familiarise you with places of interest there.
The representative is not an interpreter, but will help you overcome language barriers.
The representative is not an employee of the cruise company, but will help you solve problems on the ship
The representative is not a complaints department, but will be happy to help you resolve any complaints or objections you may have
The representative is just a person who works for you and likes you, but cannot deal with your moods and problems.
The representative has enormous responsibility for the entire group of clients, but is not responsible for situations where you do not follow their instructions.
For more information, click here
Destinations
Before you set sail, just one personal observation from our travels abroad. Having visited more than a hundred countries, I can say from the bottom of my heart that I am grateful for where I was born and where I live. If anyone wants to have a truly wonderful holiday that will leave beautiful memories in their heart, they must realise what kind of country they are visiting and that not everywhere is life as good as it is here. It really takes a little humility and respect for the country you are getting to know, for the people who often live a difficult life there. Not all services will be of high quality, not all hotels will be beautiful, and not all customs, religions and political regimes will be to your liking. However, if you respect the country you are getting to know with love and an open heart, it will repay you at least in the form of beautiful memories. It is possible that, like me, you will fall in love with discovering new countries, new people, new traditions and, for me, new and unknown beauties of this world.
ITALY - GREECE - SPAIN
Learn to perceive time a little differently. If you arrange a meeting for 10:00, expect it to start no earlier than 10:15. That's just how it is. Unlike us, these countries have a slightly different perception of time and way of life. Most people are in no hurry, and this also applies to restaurants and bars. Be patient, and if you are in a hurry, always use your smile and the word "please". Never, ever raise your voice or argue – you will achieve nothing. However, the people are very friendly, smiling and happy to help you. They love children and conversation. They are also masters of chaos and incomprehensible measures, which nevertheless work quite well. Also, keep in mind that these countries party late into the night. They go out for dinner around ten o'clock in the evening and usually everything goes on well past midnight. If you want to go to bed early in the evening, don't go here, find another destination.
Don't frown at the bambini
Children are sacred and protected here. So put on a friendly face, even if they dump a bucket of sand on your head or bang their plates next to you in a restaurant. Of course, it's a plus if you're travelling with your children or grandchildren. In Italy, they can get away with anything.
Never go to church in shorts
Italians are gradually getting used to it, but try to avoid it anyway – you simply don't go to church in short shorts.
Don't trust your satnav
The further south you go in Italy, the more often your satnav will start to malfunction. That is, if, like us, you use Google Maps. The kilometres to your destination are completely inaccurate, one-way streets in small towns lead elsewhere, and when searching for a beautiful beach, Google will send you to a no-entry zone or private property. Fortunately, the journey is the destination.
Take your time
Whether you're admiring Rome, Florence or Bolzano, take your time. Ancient monuments aren't going anywhere, Italians wouldn't do that either, and this beautiful country is worth it.
ATTENTION - supervision of children
In Italy, it is illegal to leave children under the age of 14 unattended; violating this law is punishable by imprisonment for 6 months to 5 years; for example, you cannot leave a child unattended and go skiing, even for a moment
By bus:
MONCALFONE departure from Brno at midnight ARRIVAL arrival at the port at approximately 9:00 a.m.
TRIESTE departure from Brno at midnight ARRIVAL arrival at the port at approximately 9:00 a.m. departure from Brno at 23:00 ARRIVAL arrival at the port at approx. 9:00
GENOA departure from Brno at 16:30 ARRIVAL arrival at the port at approx. 9:00
CIVITAVECCHIA departure from Brno at 16:30 ARRIVAL arrival at the port at approx. 11:00
DENMARK - NORWAY - SWEDEN
These destinations are primarily about nature. Do not expect extensive historical explanations from the tour guide – there will be none. Just enjoy the surrounding nature. Cruising through the fjords is like watching a never-ending film from the deck of the ship. There is always something to see, even at night. Boarding usually takes place in Hamburg or Kiel, so expect longer boarding and disembarking times than in Genoa, for example. Despite their organisational skills, Germans can be very unpleasant and sometimes truly incomprehensible in their organisation. Arm yourself with patience. And be careful when sailing in the north. Expect it to rain. So a raincoat, spare clothes and shoes are a must for this cruise.
Allemannsrett – is a traditional Norwegian law according to which anyone can freely move around uncultivated land (even on private property) and stay there overnight for up to two days. However, there are a few rules that must be followed: you must not disturb other people or animals, and you must stay at least 150 metres away from the nearest inhabited building.
Do not say thank you for everything – in Norway, the phrase "Thank you for everything" (Takk for alt) is not used in everyday speech, as this phrase is reserved mainly for memorials, ribbons on funeral wreaths and obituaries. It is always better to give thanks specifically for a particular thing or service.
Don't be impatient – Norwegians are known for never being in a hurry, as the Norwegian proverb "Ting tar tid" (Good things take time) says, and they adhere to this proverb in almost all activities.
Take advice – Norwegians, with a few exceptions, are not very open with strangers and generally do not interfere in the plans and activities of other people or their guests. So if your Norwegian host even hints that it's not a good idea to go fishing or take a longer trip around the area, it's a good idea to take their advice, because no one knows the changeable Norwegian weather as well as the locals.
Alcohol as currency – never – in Norway, where strong alcoholic beverages are very expensive, one may be tempted to use a bottle of spirits as currency or for bartering. However, this may not be the best idea, especially in southern and south-western Norway, where many people stay away from alcohol and the offer of wine or spirits is therefore not very appropriate.
Tips – should be no more than 10% of the total bill and should only be given when you are completely satisfied.
By bus:
KIEL departure from Brno at 21:30 ARRIVAL arrival at the port at approx. 10:00
HAMBURG departure from Brno at 21:30 ARRIVAL arrival at the port at approx. 10:00
WARDEMUNDE departure from Brno at 23:00 ARRIVAL arrival at the port at approx. 10:00
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
The flight time is approximately 6 hours without a transfer. Every year, a large number of people visit the UAE, especially Dubai. If you are planning to visit Dubai for any reason, there are a few things you should know before you get there. The people of Dubai are kind, hospitable and polite, and it is a wonderful place to visit. Although it is an Islamic country, it has a relatively tolerant policy. Visitors are expected to respect their cultural sensitivities. There are certain factors to consider in terms of dress code and behaviour, and you are sure to have a great time. Respect the laws and values of the country and your stay will be extremely enjoyable. If you do not intend to respect these values, do not travel to the United Arab Emirates and find another destination.
WHAT TO WEAR
Even though you will see many women among foreigners wearing shorts and sleeveless T-shirts, even in shopping centres and other public places, you should not assume that this is acceptable to all locals. While as hosts they are often too polite to reproach female tourists, most locals take it as disrespectful. Despite the relative liberalism of the United Arab Emirates, you are in a country where traditions are cherished, and it is unimaginable for residents to accept completely different values of behaviour.
It is inappropriate to come to the hotel from the beach in your swimsuit
A little common sense is always enough, such as getting dressed after leaving the beach or wearing appropriate clothing in hotel dining rooms, on the streets or in nightclubs. Long sleeves and normal skirts below the knee or trousers are acceptable. There is no need to cover up. Generally speaking, appropriate clothing has its advantages. You will attract less attention, receive a warmer welcome and treatment from the locals, who will appreciate your willingness to respect their customs, and everything will be fine.
DUBAI IS THE MOST TOLERANT
Cotton T-shirts and loose trousers or skirts not only protect you from the stares of men, but also protect your skin from the sun. If you are travelling outside Dubai, remember that social norms are much more conservative elsewhere in the United Arab Emirates. Dubai is one of the safest destinations for women in the Middle East, but women in inappropriate clothing, especially in the evening, in nightclubs and bars, risk being mistaken for prostitutes by the locals. You may be surprised to learn that although prostitution does not officially exist here, it is quite common in clubs, bars and on the streets of Deira and Bur Dubai. However, it is mainly women from Asia and the Balkan countries who engage in this trade.
A FEW GOOD TIPS FOR WOMEN
Despite assurances from travel agencies and Dubai authorities that women have nothing to fear in the country, it is a good idea to follow a few basic rules that will help you avoid unwanted attention and make travelling easier for you as a woman. Wear a wedding ring, even if you are single. This will immediately make you "unavailable" to local men. However, you may be asked uncomfortable questions about how you could have left your husband or children. If you are travelling with a boyfriend, refer to him as your husband in public, not your boyfriend. Avoid direct eye contact with men and wear dark glasses. Do not sit in the front seat of a taxi. If you need help or advice, ask a woman first. It is considered very rude for a woman to approach a man first.
Here are some more tips on what to do and what not to do, and what not to forget when visiting Dubai.
Clothing – Dress modestly, especially in conservative areas and public places. Swimwear is acceptable on private beaches and at swimming pools. Swimwear should not be worn in any other area outside of beaches, water parks or swimming pools. Shorts and T-shirts are appropriate attire in many public places. When visiting mosques, older parts of towns and religious sites, it is advisable to cover your shoulders, arms and legs. Women must cover their heads with a scarf when entering a mosque. Cross-dressing is not accepted and may result in detention by the authorities. Any form of nudity is strictly prohibited, including topless sunbathing. It is not appropriate for men to walk around in the street or in shopping centres with their chests exposed.
Gestures - Never point your finger at anyone, as this is considered offensive. If you want to gesture with your hand, use your whole arm to indicate direction. Obscene hand gestures in public can get you arrested. Avoid pointing your feet or crossing your legs, especially in front of important guests.
Drinking – The country has a zero-tolerance policy towards drink driving. Getting drunk and behaving badly when drunk in public is unacceptable and could result in a fine or worse. Consuming alcohol and other illegal substances in public is prohibited. There are plenty of places in Dubai where you can enjoy a drink. Visit a bar or pub and you will be surprised by the variety of spirits on offer.
Photography – Be vigilant when taking photographs. Always obtain permission from the UAE or UAE national before taking a photograph of a resident, especially a woman.
Mind your language – Explicit gestures, noise disturbances, vulgar expressions and displays of disrespect towards the Islamic religion or UAE leaders are prohibited. Such actions could have legal consequences.
The holy month of Ramadan –Muslims pray, fast and meditate during this month. One should follow the rules issued by the government during the month of fasting. Many people would advise you not to visit this country during Ramadan, but if you follow the rules, even Ramadan can be an enjoyable time to visit.
The use or possession of drugs, cohabitation, sex outside marriage, extramarital children, adultery and homosexuality are considered illegal.
USA AND THE CARIBBEAN
A chapter unto itself. Let's be honest with ourselves. Many clients have a dream destination – the Caribbean. They look at photos, promotional materials, catalogues and films. All of this is nice, but it is important to realise that life across the pond is completely different from ours, and below we will try to explain some of the pitfalls that may affect your choice of holiday. First and foremost, you need to realise that you are not flying to Egypt for your holiday, but to the other side of the globe, crossing a time zone with a 6-hour difference.
HEALTH CONDITION
Assess your health condition correctly. Below you will find important information about the flight and local customs that may affect your health condition, or you may decide that it would be better to travel to a different destination due to your health condition.
AIR TRANSPORT TO THE USA
First of all, you need to realise that you are not flying to Egypt or Madeira. You are flying halfway around the world, and air travel is the most demanding part of your entire holiday.
Flights to the USA always involve a transfer. For an additional fee, we can arrange a direct flight from Vienna, but this will be without the assistance of a representative. As a rule, you must be prepared to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before departure for check-in. Flights depart from Prague or Vienna with a transfer in Paris or London. Flight time is approximately 2 hours. Transfer time is at least 3.5-4 hours, sometimes more. This transfer time is very important because flights in Europe are often delayed, and if we miss our connection to the US, your holiday is over! That is why this time interval is very important. Another aspect is the transfer at the airport. There are often long queues at passport control, and the transfer from gate to gate can take up to 2.5 hours.
Flights to the USA usually take approximately 9-11 hours, depending on the route. All flights are in economy class, and it should be noted in advance that the travel agency has no influence over the seating arrangements on the plane.Seating on the plane is assigned by airport staff during check-in. This can be quite a problem, especially for families with children!!! Guaranteed seats, seats by the door or higher class can be arranged for an additional fee, and this request must be made when signing the travel contract – it is not possible to do so later. During the flight, you will receive refreshments, including a meal. We strongly advise you to be aware of possible health complications (you will be sitting in one place for 11 hours). The ideal solution is simply to sleep during the flight.
The return flight is similar, in that we must be at the airport at least four hours before our departure from Miami. In the US, the airline handles several flights, which means checking in a thousand people at the counter. Again, if we do not check in on time and do not arrive at the gate on time, the plane will leave without the possibility of a refund. Therefore, arriving at the airport on time is extremely important.
We would also like to draw your attention to the strict adherence to baggage size and, above all, weight restrictions. If your baggage exceeds the weight limit by even half a kilogram, you will be charged a fee, which can sometimes be as high as USD 100–150.
Conditions of carriage by air
We would like to strongly advise our clients that flights outside the EU are subject to significant changes in flight conditions and airline authority. Airlines often change their previously announced flight offers and in the vast majority of cases, passengers have no choice but to accept these conditions. Complaints about these changes are usually unsuccessful. The travel agency has no way of influencing these changes and is not responsible for them. In any case, if such a situation arises, we will do our utmost to help you resolve the situation.
Attention: again, please note that enough time is needed to transfer to long-haul flights, so we recommend sufficient time to transfer at airports:
LONDON PARIS AMSTERDAM GENEVA | 3-4 hours 3 hours 2 hours 1,5 hours | |
ATLANTA NEW YORK DUBAI DOHA | minimum 3,5-4 hours 3 hours 3,5 hours 4 hours |
What situations you may encounter during the flight:
You miss your connecting flight | -> Try to rebook on a new flight | First flight delay |
Position on the plane (you are not next to each other) Transfer to another flight or flights Splitting the group on other flights A bumped flight (they refuse to carry you) | -> Ask the counter for a transfer -> Try to make arrangements at the counter -> It can happen. -> You'll get an alternate flight | Outside the possibilities of CK Outside the possibilities of CK Travel agency assistance Travel agency assistance |
VISAS AND IMMIGRATION CONTROL
Currently, you can travel to the USA with a visa or without a visa under the ESTA visa waiver programme. The first option is a "US visa" and the second option is "ESTA - Visa Waiver Programme". Both options have their pros and cons, so consider carefully which option you choose. US visas are valid for up to 10 years and allow for multiple trips. The visa-free ESTA US visa is valid for two years from the date of approval, during which time you can travel to the US multiple times. We can help you obtain an ESTA upon request for an additional fee.
After arriving in the USA, you will proceed to immigration control after disembarking from the aircraft. At immigration control, you must provide fingerprints from both your left and right hands, and the immigration officer may ask you several questions regarding your entry into the USA. We have prepared a separate appendix to the check-in instructions with possible questions and answers for the immigration process. A representative will accompany you to the immigration process. However, the representative is not allowed to interfere with or be present during the immigration process. The immigration process may take a considerable amount of time. We are usually cleared within approximately 2 hours, but we have experienced situations where we had to wait considerably longer. We ask for your utmost patience. Neither the representative nor the travel agency has any influence over these procedures. After clearing immigration, it will also be necessary to wait for the transfer, which is affected by the current traffic situation. Thank you for your understanding.
Very important notice
However, Czech citizens cannot travel to the US on the basis of ESTA approval if they have visited North Korea, Iraq, Iran, Yemen, Libya, Somalia, Syria, or Sudan at any time after 1 March 2011. Similarly, they cannot use ESTA authorisation to travel to the US if they have visited Cuba after 12 January 2021.nbsp;In these cases, it is necessary to apply to the US Embassy for the appropriate visa (e.g. a B1 business visa or a B2 tourist visa) well in advance. Travellers who, in addition to Czech citizenship, also have citizenship of Cuba, North Korea, Iraq, Iran, Sudan and Syria must also apply for a visa.
Transfers in Miami
Miami is huge, but at the same time small. What we mean by that is that up to seven cruise ships can dock in Miami in a single day, bringing in approximately 30,000 to 35,000 customers. These people need somewhere to stay and, above all, they need transport. That is why hotel prices in Miami are astronomical by our standards, and the same applies to transfers, their prices and, above all, their availability. The word "traffic" is probably the most commonly used in transport. The whole problem is related to immigration procedures, both at the airport and when disembarking from the ship, where immigration again takes place at the end of the cruise. Because you cannot estimate the time it will take for a group to clear immigration, you cannot estimate the transfer time either. It is quite common for transfers to be delayed and have to be rebooked, which means paying again.
Therefore, please be aware that transfers may sometimes be delayed by more than 30 minutes and we will simply have to wait for them – that's just how it is in Miami. We ask for your utmost patience. We really cannot influence this situation in any way. If you do not want to wait, we can arrange private transport from the airport to the hotel for an additional fee of £50 per person, as well as from the hotel to the port for an additional fee of £30 per person and from the port to the airport for an additional fee of £40 per person.
TAXI
If you want to order a taxi, always allow plenty of time, especially when travelling to the airport or from Dolphin Mall to the airport. You may have to wait for more than an hour. Also, expect that the taxi will not arrive at the time you ordered it, but with a considerable delay.
HOTELS IN THE USA
That's the sticking point. We are literally spoiled by the standards of our hotels in Europe. Travellers to the USA will agree with me that you have to lower your expectations considerably. Our advice is to cut 2-3 stars from your hotel rating. Accommodation in Miami is very complicated and expensive. Our travel agency focuses primarily on the location of the hotel. For our clients, we use the services of the hotel SOUTH BEACH PLAZA HOTEL, located about 100 metres from Miami Beach. This hotel is particularly suitable due to its location. How hotels in the USA are different and what might surprise you:
Air conditioning – air conditioning is used everywhere and everything is set to a temperature of around 20 degrees Celsius. We recommend turning off the air conditioning in your room.
Closed windows – most hotels in Miami of this standard have them. Simply put, the windows are closed, and if they can be opened, it is only by about 10 cm. No more than that. For those who do not understand, it is for security reasons. Closed windows combined with air conditioning are not exactly a good combination for us. Thanks to the varied programme, we only sleep in the rooms, the bathrooms usually have a bath, and the beds are made with clean sheets. If you are interested in a better hotel, we can arrange a hotel of your choice for an additional fee. Please note, however, that transfers always depart from the SOUTH BEACH PLAZA HOTEL.
Breakfast – forget about buffet-style breakfasts. Many hotels in the USA do not serve breakfast at all. A typical breakfast, which you can also get at our hotel, consists of coffee – filter coffee, a roll, butter, a muffin, jam, an apple or an orange. That's all.
Hotel deposits – hotels require a credit card deposit. If you are travelling with transport and a representative, you do not need to worry about anything; the representative will take care of everything.
FOOD
Opposite the hotel is a shop where you can buy food, drinks, beverages and toiletries, and it is open 24 hours a day. When purchasing alcoholic beverages, you must have your passport with you, and they can be purchased from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eating out on the street will cost you about $6-15 per person per meal, and in restaurants about $30-80 per person. It is a big problem if you have allergies. American shops and products are based on durability, and E numbers are everywhere and in everything. Warning! It is forbidden to import food, fruit, etc. into the USA. Not only will it be confiscated, but the fines can be as high as $300.
MONEY
It is very difficult to pay with a hundred-dollar bill, and many shops and restaurants will not accept it at all. Also, when it comes to cards, 90% of them only accept credit cards. Please note that we have a completely different concept of a credit card – a credit card is one where you have a loan from the bank and can go into the red on the card!!!
TIPS
TIPS are paid everywhere in the USA and the Caribbean. It is simply part of their culture and must be respected. And if you don't want to accept their culture, it's better not to travel to the United States and the Caribbean. As a rule, drivers are given $1 for transfers, guides $1-2, restaurants 10% of the price, taxi drivers 10%, hotels and the like. That's just the way it is. During your cruise, you will need approximately £5-10 per person for tips. If you don't tip, you'll unnecessarily create problems for yourself.
AIR CONDITIONING
Be careful with that. You're flying to the Caribbean, flying for warmth. And in America, everything is air-conditioned. Our bodies really aren't used to that. Shops, restaurants, taxis, buses, airports, aeroplanes - everything is air-conditioned to an unbelievable 20 degrees. If you walk from a hot street, where it is over thirty degrees, into a cold shop and do this several times in a row, you are likely to catch a cold at best, and usually it affects your vocal cords. Therefore, we recommend a light jumper and a hat or scarf for your head on planes or buses.The air conditioning in aeroplanes and buses is on all the time. We recommend turning off the air conditioning in hotels.
OUR GOOD ADVICE
Don't forget to complete your ESTA travel registration
You do not necessarily need to apply for a visa before travelling to the USA – if your stay does not exceed 90 days and you are travelling on business or on holiday, all you need to do is complete and pay for your ESTA travel registration. An approved ESTA does not guarantee entry into the United States, but it does authorise you to travel to the USA. It is officially recommended that you complete it at least 72 hours before departure, although the evaluation takes only a few minutes. If you arrive at the airport without a completed ESTA, you will most likely not be allowed to board the plane.
Make copies of all reservations
Always have several copies of your flight tickets, travel tickets, hotel reservations, travel documents and insurance policies. The best option is for each traveller to have one copy of all documents, including, for example, the travel insurance of another participant in the trip.
Are you worried about your English for your immigration interview? Prepare in advance!
After landing at your first airport in the US, you must undergo an interview with an immigration officer. The officer will decide whether to allow you into the country or send you back home on the next flight (highly unlikely). The immigration interview is usually conducted in a group with your fellow travellers. If you are still concerned about your English, have the answers to the individual questions written down on paper and then present it to the officer.
Check your credit card
If you have not yet used your credit card abroad, check with your bank to make sure you can use it overseas. Although it sounds unbelievable nowadays, I know of a case where a credit card from a Czech savings bank did not work in the US.When paying, don't be confused by the term "credit card"; in America, the vast majority of purchases are made on credit via credit cards. In the Czech Republic, on the other hand, debit cards are mostly used, where you spend your own money. Nevertheless, when paying in the USA, state that you are paying by credit card to avoid any complications or the inability to pay. For more information, see the article on how to pay by card in the USA.
Don't forget to activate roaming
Before departure, don't forget to check that roaming to the USA is activated – without it, your phone will not connect to the network, meaning you will have no signal and no one will be able to call you. Some mobile operators differentiate between roaming within the European Union and outside it, so be careful. Please note that although you have roaming activated, data is not, so you need to activate that as well!!!
Prepare for the time difference
The United States is divided into six time zones. Compared to the Czech Republic, the US is six hours behind from east to west. Hand in hand with the time difference comes jet lag, also known as jet lag. Your body is used to a different time, so for the first few days after arriving in the States, you will tend to fall asleep in the afternoon and wake up in the middle of the night. Experts say that for every hour of time difference, the body needs one day to adapt.
Do not underestimate travel insurance
The cost of healthcare in the United States is extremely high, which is reflected in the price of insurance for travel to the United States. Despite this, or perhaps because of it, I recommend taking out travel insurance with sufficiently high limits before departure. To give you an idea, treatment for acute appendicitis in the United States costs CZK 600,000, and the average cost of treatment for an insured tourist in the US is CZK 230,000!
Will you be driving? Apply for an international driving licence and read the traffic rules
Renting a car is a must when travelling in the USA (with the possible exception of New York). If you intend to drive in America, don't forget to apply for an international driving licence, which is usually required by car rental companies. Before renting a car, I recommend comparing offers from several companies, as you are more likely to save money. Drivers should read the article on driving in the USA, as there are several differences in practice. Cars with automatic transmission predominate in the USA, and traffic lights are located after the intersection, where you can turn right on red. Just give way to vehicles coming from the left. Make sure you know the speed limit so you don't get fined. To be on the safe side, also read the instructions on how to refuel at an American petrol station. The procedure is completely different from the Czech one.
Stock up on one-dollar coins
The United States is a country where tipping is the norm. Restaurant staff, hotel maids and airport shuttle drivers are paid on the understanding that they will receive tips. In restaurants (not fast food outlets), a tip of 15-20% is expected, taxi drivers expect around 10%, and chambermaids and porters are happy with one or two dollars. I recommend keeping a supply of these on hand. In some restaurants, the tip is already included in the final price. Just look for the "Service Charge" box.
Find out the permitted baggage weight in advance
Before every flight to or from the USA, check the maximum permitted baggage allowance. Most airlines only include one piece of checked baggage weighing 20–23 kg in the ticket price. When flying to the USA, I recommend allowing for some extra space – expect to pack a lot of souvenirs, gifts or cheaply purchased clothing on your return journey, and also that your clothing will be damp after sailing in the Caribbean.
Do not lock your suitcase; secure it with a cable lock
The US Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has the right to open your suitcase at the airport and check its contents. This is not an exception, but standard practice – the probability of being randomly selected is relatively high. Security personnel also have the right to forcibly remove the lock, and you will only find out about the inspection from a leaflet when you collect and open your suitcase at your destination airport. There are two ways to avoid buying new locks – either purchase a "TSA approved" lock or secure the zips with cable ties. One costs about a pound, and if you add another to your suitcase, they will remove it again after any inspection.
Pack a plug adapter
In America, the standard is a type A or B plug with a voltage of 110 V – the one with two flat pins. Don't forget to buy or borrow an adapter and pack it in your suitcase. They tend to be very expensive at airports. You can buy adapters for American sockets in most electrical shops, with the cheapest sets available for as little as CZK 180.
Buy a power bank and carry it with you
A power bank is an extremely useful device. It is a kind of backup power source that you charge with a standard USB charger and can then use to charge any phone or tablet. Depending on the capacity of the power bank, you can charge your phone approximately one to five times. If you use your phone for photography or navigation, the battery drains quickly, and a power bank is a lifesaver.
Leave the bread and schnitzel at home
Customs regulations prohibit the import of most meat and dairy products, including salami, sausages and schnitzel, which is popular in Czechia. During your flight to the USA, you will fill out a customs declaration form, in which you must state whether you are importing any prohibited food items. If you answer yes, or if you are caught during a random check, the food items in question will be confiscated. A detailed list of permitted and prohibited items can be found in the article What food items can be imported into the USA.
The cheapest food can be found at fast food restaurants
Americans really enjoy eating at fast food restaurants, and there are countless chains, many of which you have probably never heard of. Subway, McDonalds, Burger King, Wendy’s, Jack in the Box, KFC, Taco Bell, Starbucks, Applebee’s, Domino’s Pizza, White Castle, Hooters, Krispy Kreme, Dunkin’ Donuts, In-N-Out Burger, El Pollo Loco, Pizza Hut… and these are just some of the most famous ones.Most of them sell hamburgers with chips of various shapes, and you will pay £6-10 for a meal. If you prefer a healthier lifestyle, I recommend Subway with fresh baguettes of your choice. The menu usually includes information about the number of calories and the amount of fat contained, which is part of the fight against obesity. All fast food restaurants offer free refills of drinks from a postmix, known in America as a fountain. In addition to sweet drinks, there is usually a limited selection of unsweetened drinks, most often tea or water. If you want to try something typically American, fill up on A&W Root Beer, a herbal lemonade with a flavour that is difficult to describe.
Prices on price tags do not include tax
In states where sales tax is levied, it is not usually included in the price shown on the price tag. So, an advertised price of ten dollars for a genuine American hamburger may turn out to be just under twelve dollars. Keep this difference in mind when converting prices into pounds sterling.
Alcohol is only served to people aged 21 and over in America
Alcoholic beverages are only permitted in the United States from the age of 21; younger people are not allowed to buy, import or store them. Unlike in the Czech Republic, this rule is strictly enforced in America, although there are, of course, cases where young people drink. The vast majority of American states prohibit drinking in public, or carrying and possessing open bottles of alcohol. Paradoxically, this law can be circumvented by, for example, hiding a bottle of beer in a paper bag and drinking from it.
and finally:
DO NOT PHOTOGRAPH POLICE OFFICERS, MILITARY VEHICLES OR MILITARY AIRCRAFT
NEVER SMOKE AT IMMIGRATION!!!
NEVER CALL IMMIGRATION!!!
NEVER DRINK ALCOHOL IN PUBLIC
NEVER, EVER REVEAL YOURSELF IN PUBLIC!
NEVER RESIST THE POLICE
ALWAYS KEEP AN EYE ON YOUR PERSONAL BELONGINGS
ALWAYS KEEP YOUR PASSPORTS AND MONEY IN THE HOTEL SAFE
ALWAYS KEEP AN EYE ON YOUR CREDIT CARD
ALWAYS LISTEN CAREFULLY TO THE INSTRUCTIONS OF "IMPORTANT" AIRPORT STAFF, IMMIGRATION OFFICIALS AND FLIGHT ATTENDANTS
CANADA
Citizens of the Czech Republic may travel to Canada without a visa on the basis of an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) if they meet the following conditions:
The eTA is valid for up to 5 years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
The eTA application can be submitted online and approval usually takes a few minutes. In some cases, additional documents may be required.
SAFETY RECOMMENDATIONS
Canada is generally considered a very safe destination for tourists. However, it is recommended that you follow normal safety precautions:
Nature: When visiting nature reserves and national parks, follow local rules and guidelines, especially when it comes to wildlife.
RECOMMENDED VACCINATIONS
No vaccinations are mandatory for travel to Canada. However, it is recommended that you consider the following vaccinations:
Hepatitis A: Recommended for all travellers, especially when consuming local food and water.
Hepatitis B: Recommended for travellers who may be at risk (e.g. healthcare workers, people planning a longer stay).
Tetanus: Recommended for travellers planning more adventurous activities in the countryside.
Measles (MMR): Recommended for all travellers, especially if they do not have proof of previous vaccination.
IMPORTANT NOTICE
Health insurance: It is recommended that you have valid health insurance covering any healthcare costs during your stay.
Travel information: Before travelling, it is advisable to check the latest safety and health recommendations from official government and health organisations.
Argentina
Travelling to Argentina is relatively straightforward for citizens of the Czech Republic. Here is the latest information on visas, safety and recommended vaccinations.
Citizens of the Czech Republic can travel to Argentina without a visa for tourism purposes for up to 90 days. No visa formalities are required upon arrival.
However, it is important to have a valid passport with a minimum validity of 6 months from the planned entry into the country and travel insurance.
SAFETY RECOMMENDATIONS
Argentina is generally considered a safe destination for tourists, but it is advisable to follow basic safety precautions:
Valuables: Avoid wearing expensive jewellery and watches in public.
Transport: In some areas, such as the city of Rosario, increased caution is advised due to higher crime rates.
Evening travel: After dark, it is better to use reliable means of transport, such as taxis or ride-sharing apps, rather than walking.
RECOMMENDED VACCINATIONS
Before travelling to Argentina, it is recommended to consider the following vaccinations:
Hepatitis A: Recommended for all travellers, especially when visiting rural areas or consuming local food and water.
Hepatitis B: Recommended for travellers who may be at risk (e.g. healthcare workers, people planning a longer stay).
Typhoid: Recommended for travellers who will be travelling to rural areas or consuming local food.
Measles (MMR): Recommended for all travellers, especially if they do not have proof of previous vaccination.
Yellow fever: Vaccination is recommended only for travellers heading to specific areas with a risk of yellow fever.
IMPORTANT NOTICE
Health insurance: Due to new requirements from the Argentine government, it is necessary to have valid health insurance covering any potential healthcare costs during your stay.
Travel information: Before travelling, it is advisable to check the latest safety and health recommendations from official government and health organisations.
In conclusion
Friends, this information is not intended to discourage you from sailing, but rather to inform you in advance of everything you might encounter during your travels. All of the information provided here, as well as in more detail in your instructions, is based on our many years of experience travelling and gradually avoiding mistakes and crisis situations. We firmly believe that you will appreciate our intentions.
We spend most of our time on MSC CRUISES ships and are very familiar with all the ships, services and destinations. The fact that we work exclusively with MSC CRUISES is a guarantee of the high quality of our travel agency's services. Every year, we organise over seventy groups for sea cruises, and the sea is our second home. Accept our invitation aboard MSC CRUISES ships and let yourself be carried away on waves of comfort, relaxation and good entertainment.