Is the programs' availability guaranteed?

No. You should contact-us in order to do a reservation; subsequently, we we'll check availability for the intended dates for all services involved (flights, hotels, guided tours, etc). We'll always look for similar alternatives or adjustments to the itinerary in case the service providers have no availability for a particular service, and we'll always keep you informed on the status. You should bear in mind that the sooner you make your reservation better are the odds of obtaining availability, especially in the flights.

I would like to travel to a specific country in a time of year that does not appear possible in your program. Does that mean that I cannot go?

Well, you can, and in some cases there are even some programs available in the market to that effect. But we prefer that you don't. If we did not include that trip in that month, is because normally the weather conditions are so adverse for the journey in question that we find that you will not come back satisfied. That might happen as a consequence of it coinciding with months of such intense rain that the roads may be affected and the journey depends on that mobility, or because the coldness is so severe that many hotels are closed and the services of mobility and guidance are limited, or because if your intention is going to the beach and in that month it's cold or raining cats and dogs all day... That does not necessarily mean that every month in which we've included that program the weather is going to be splendid!

Which is the best time of year for traveling to a specific destination?

In each program you can find the months during which we consider that it makes more sense to travel to the country or countries in question. Nevertheless, within that period, there is the possibility of existing a particular season specially recommended for climate reasons: ask us.

With how many people will I share the journey?

With exception of the programs specifically identified as group programs, the journeys that we suggest and organize are private, meaning, only with those with whom you chose to share the journey - being companion, family or friends. Eventually, some portions of the journey will have to be integrated in a group of others tourists, namely in transfers or some specific visits. In those cases that will be indicated in the description of the program. Some of our suggestions are planned for groups, with previously set dates, with the purpose of obtaining a more attractive price, especially if you are traveling alone or in a party of two, as well as a means of promoting the interaction with others travelers, Portuguese, or of the most diverse nationalities. In these cases the groups will have a maximum of 12-15 people.

The country that I would like to visit in my next trip does is not be included in the programs on your site. May I still rely on you to you organize it?

Of course you may! We keep on adding news suggestions whenever we are able to present the best and more diversified there is to offer for each country, including ours, after exhaustive analysis and always counting on trustworthy local operators. If we still haven't got to the country you are looking for, you can count on us, since we have the necessary tools, and nothing gives us more pleasure than planning journeys (besides doing them ourselves, that is!).

I like one of your programs but I would like to modify some things. Is it possible?

We are entirely available for adapting what are merely our suggestions, to your own personal taste, budget and available time, as long as it is attainable and that we consider that you will come back satisfied with the journey. That's why we are TravelTailors! You might want to shorten or lengthen a stay, eliminate activities or visits you are not interested in, add some others that are not included, request specific hotels - the effect of those alterations in regards to the initial proposed program will always be clear.

What are local airport taxes and why are they not included in the price of the flight?

Some airports opted to charge locally directly to the passenger the respective airport taxes, in these cases it is not possible to include it in the price of the airline ticket. When appropriate, we try to provide that information in the travel program, however, bear in mind that sudden alterations might occur without our knowledge.

Why do the prices of the flights vary so much?

An important part of the price of the flight corresponds to the tariff, which varies depending on demand: even inside the economy class, airlines attribute different classes of reservations with different prices, despite the service being exactly the same. The first seats to be sold are the ones with the price associated with the lower priced class, and when these run out, the price of the following class will apply, and this process goes on until, successively, all tariffs are sold. That's why it is fundamental to reserve with the maximum time in advance so you may access the most favorable tariffs: for some destinations, if in high season, the lower tariffs will cease to be available even with more than four months in advance. In most of the destinations that we suggest the flight has one stop in an European city, so you must bear in mind that not only Portuguese people will be looking for those flights.

Other price components are the fuel taxes (which vary according to the fuel prices), security and airport taxes.

Why do the prices of the flights vary so much?

An important part of the price of the flight corresponds to the tariff, which varies depending on demand: even inside the economy class, airlines attribute different classes of reservations with different prices, despite the service being exactly the same. The first seats to be sold are the ones with the price associated with the lower priced class, and when these run out, the price of the following class will apply, and this process goes on until, successively, all tariffs are sold. That's why it is fundamental to reserve with the maximum time in advance so you may access the most favorable tariffs: for some destinations, if in high season, the lower tariffs will cease to be available even with more than four months in advance. In most of the destinations that we suggest the flight has one stop in an European city, so you must bear in mind that not only Portuguese people will be looking for those flights.

Other price components are the fuel taxes (which vary according to the fuel prices), security and airport taxes.

Why don't your trips include the price of the international flight?

The price of the flights is really variable depending on the available tariffs at the time of reservation, the time of the year and the different applicable rates. This way, we believe that the information is more clear, given that you will be sure that do we do not inflate the prices in order to cover these likely variations. Additionally, there are travelers that opt for more economical flight solutions even if that implies several stops, while others only want to fly directly or just want to use specific airlines, being willing to pay for a more expensive flight. There are also some travelers that, for several reasons, might not want to leave from or return to Portugal but instead to a different destination. TravelTailors provides solutions to the different preferences and takes care of your flight reservations, informing you of the different available options. Nevertheless you have the option of acquiring just the land program.

Along with every program you can find information about the estimated value of the flight. When you chose to proceed with an actual reservation, we will give you the prices of the available flight(s), as well as schedules, estimated stops and airline(s). This price can vary, at times substantially, very quickly, and can be only be guaranteed after flight reservation, which is only is possible with the information of first and last name of the passengers.

In order to obtain to best tariff you should reserve the flight as soon as possible. We recommend at least three to four months before departure, especially if you are looking to travel in a high season (in Portugal or in the country of destination).

What can I carry in the hand luggage?

The passengers should know the current rules of security relatively to hand luggage, namely the prohibition transportation of any dangerous goods (it includes pocketknives, little scissors and nail-clippers!), as well as the limitations to the transportation of liquids and gels(to include, among others, water, perfumes, creams, deodorant, tooth paste, gel...) stored in packages of capacity not over 100ml, properly packed in a transparent closed bag, that cannot exceed the dimensions of 19cmx20cm (ex: freezing bag) and capacity of 1 liter by passenger. Rule of thumb, the hand luggage is limited to 6kg per passenger.

Should I reconfirm my flight with the airline?

The airlines might be forced to alter the schedules of departure at the last minute, therefore, flights should always be confirmed 24 hours before departure. Whenever the flights have been booked with us, TravelTailors and/or our local representatives will take care of that confirmation, except when specifically indicated in documentation provided to the client. Of any case you can always confirm the schedule phoning the airline, or accessing the Amadeus here using the reservation code stated in your electronic ticket.

May I depart from Porto or of any other European city? Or return to a city different from the one I departed?

Yes. Give us that indication upon booking the flights in order for us to determine the available flights, schedules that may fit in the program and price. 

http://www.travel-tailors.com/perguntas-frequentes/lang_en#d6

I am not sure about what trip I should book. How can I make the right decision?

Please read carefully the description on the programs that you might be interested in, as well as the files with helpful information associated with these countries that you may find on our site. If you still will have doubts, call us or come meet us or we'll meet you with an Atlas in our hands. Talking about your interests, what you already know, your budget, and the period in which you want to travel, will surely enable you to decide which will be your next trip.

http://www.travel-tailors.com/perguntas-frequentes/lang_en#d6

If I make a reservation on my own, in a group journey, will I have that pay individual supplement?

Not necessarily. If you don't mind sharing a room with a person of the same sex, we will group the people in the same situation by order of inscription. Only if your reservation happens to be the last one and we cannot pair you with a same sex person, we will charge you the value of the individual supplement.

http://www.travel-tailors.com/perguntas-frequentes/lang_en#d12

My friends won't be able to come with me on this trip. Can I still make a reservation just for me?

Most of our travel suggestions are based in private programs with a minimum of two people, since the price for only one person in private would be very costly - normally the equivalent to the price for two people! Of course we can do it if that is your preference, however please consult us because we will certainly find you a small international group in which you can be integrated paying a normal price, even though occasionally not exactly for the same itinerary. If you contact us with enough time in advance, we'll be able to promote a trip with in the departure date and itinerary of your choice, trying to group other people in the same situation and with the same preferences.

http://www.travel-tailors.com/perguntas-frequentes/lang_en#d11

How can I make a reservation?

Whether you are aiming for one of the programs amongst our suggestions or you want something custom made for you, you should contacts-us by telephone or email, and we will give you all step-by-step indication. Namely, we will request that you fill a form with your personal details, contacts, and all pertinent information related with the intended trip. In order for a reservation to be considered "confirmed", you will have to make a deposit of 30% of the total price of the journey or 100% of the value of the air tickets, whichever is higher. Different conditions may apply in some specific programs, promotions or holydays, by imposition of the service providers. 

http://www.travel-tailors.com/perguntas-frequentes/lang_en#d6

How much time in advance I should make my reservation?

It is always convenient to plan your vacation with plenty of time in advance, as a means of avoiding disappointment for the lack of availability of flights or hotels, and as a form of obtaining better price flights. We recommend that you do it at least three to four months prior to the date of departure, especially if you intend to travel in the month of August, in new year's eve or in the high season of the country where you to want travel to.

http://www.travel-tailors.com/perguntas-frequentes/lang_en#d6

I am going to travel with minors. What additional documentation is necessary?

When minors travel accompanied by their parents, it is always necessary to carry ID cards for the minors, in order to enable filiation confirmation. 

Whenever minors travel unaccompanied by their parents, it is mandatory to carry an authorization for the effect. This authorization should be in writing, dated and signed by the persons exercising parent power legally certified, conferring powers to accompany the minors to a third party properly identified. For further details and download of the minute draft of the authorization you may consult here. 

I'll be driving during the journey. Will my driver's license be sufficient? 

In case you are going to drive at destination, check if your driver's license is within the expiration date and if it is recognized by the country that you are going to visit. Some countries, may require the International Drivers' License, which is valid only for one year. In order to obtain it, seehere. 

You should gather information about the local legislation and comply scrupulously with the applicable Law of the country you are traveling to. Many countries have mechanisms for immediate enforcement of sanctions in case of infractions.

http://www.travel-tailors.com/perguntas-frequentes/lang_en#d6

Where in Portugal do I make an appointment for a traveler's health appointment?

  • "Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical" (Institute of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine) - R. Junqueira, 96 - Lisbon. Tel: 21 3652600. 
       Email: info@ihmt.unl.pt. Website: http://www.ihmt.unl.pt 

    • The British Hospital - R. Saraiva Carvalho, 49 - Lisboa. Tel: 21 3955067 

    • Clínica de Medicina Tropical e do Viajante - Av. Liberdade, 129, 7ºD - Lisboa. Tel: 21 3225622 

    • Centro de Saúde dos Guindais - R. Arnaldo Gama, 64 - Porto. Tel: 22 2002540 

You may also find centers for international vaccination all around the country. Please consult contacts and operational hours here. 

http://www.travel-tailors.com/perguntas-frequentes/lang_en#d7

Which vaccines should I have?

The recommend vaccines depend on the geographical zone where you are traveling to. Whenever you are going to travel outside of Europe you should consult a traveler's health specialist. If you are traveling with your family, namely with infants and/or elderly people, you should bear in mind the special heath cares that they might need. The traveler's health consultations are provided by infectious illnesses and tropical medicine specialists. 

The appropriate vaccines, depending on destination, are the ones that protect against the following illnesses: cholera, diphtheria, Japanese encephalitis, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, influenza, rabies, tetanus and typhoid fever. The International Sanitary Regulation in force stipulates that the only vaccine that might be required of the travelers when going trough border control is the yellow fever vaccine. You may obtain more information in the World Health Organization site. 

http://www.travel-tailors.com/perguntas-frequentes/lang_en#d6

My nationality is not Portuguese. How should I proceed?

If you are not Portuguese, and reside or not in Portugal, you should consult your Embassy or Consulate, in order to identify which are the requirements of entrance in the country to which you are traveling. You should inform TravelTailors of your nationality upon reservation as well of all possible visa requirements and procedures. For further information you may also contact the "Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras" (Foreigners and Borders Service) using the telephone 21 7115000 or consulting the respective site.

What documentation do I need for traveling to the United States of the America?

The citizens of Portuguese nationality do not need visa for traveling to the United States of the America, as long as they possess optical reading passports, which is automatically the case for all passports emitted after the 1st of January 2001. Additionally, it is mandatory to request prior authorization for the journey, which will have the validity of two years and might be used for multiple journeys to that country. This authorization (THIS) is requested through the site and since September of 2010 a rate of 14USD will be charged. In case the authorization is denied, you will have to request a visa to the U.S.A embassy.

Please note that when traveling to the U.S.A., the client gives its express consent for transmission of all the information, including personal details, to the governmental authorities for air traveling control and security purposes.

What documentation do I need for traveling outside the European Union?

The Portuguese passengers shall carry a valid passport - most countries require that the passport has at least 6 months of validity after expected date of return. Consult the embassy of the country of destination.

Some countries require a Visa - in some cases, that visa is mandatorily obtained before departure; in others, it's obtained upon arrival to the country of destination. Please consult the relevant notes of your travel program and consult the embassy of the country of destination. We highlight that TravelTailors declines any responsibility for the refusal of concession of Visa.

Finally, some countries have mandatory sanitary formalities, meaning, it might be required to present vaccine bulletin for yellow fever and/or others.

More information here.

What documentation do I need for traveling inside the European Union?

Portuguese passengers shall carry valid Identity Card. "cédula pessoal" is not considered a valid document.

Additionally in order to benefit from hospital medical aid in any country of the European Union (27 State-Members), Iceland, Liechenstein, Norway and Swiss, passengers should be carriers of the European Card for Illness Insurance, which, in Portugal, can be obtained in any "loja do cidadão", in Social Security services or requesting it by email to Social Security.

More information here.

Which are the means of payment at my disposal?

You can pay for your traveling arrangements, using the following means of payment:
    • By banking transference, to the NIB 0033 0000 4539 2763 2080 5, sending us sent confirmation proof by email (traveltailors@travel-tailors.com) or fax (+ 351 21 757 86 70).
    • By check passed to "TravelTailors Portugal - Turismo Activo, Lda".
    • With credit card, only for regular flight payments that are included in a complete program. This option does not have extra costs,
it requires photocopy of the credit card and of the document of identification of the client, as a filled debit authorization.

Testimunial: "Chuck and Diane Reers, Journey to Portugal, May 2013"

"PORTUGAL, a diamond in the rough. At least that was my last recollection from 8th grade geography & history classes. We quickly saw this beautiful country transformed into a highly polished gem, which resembled the Hope Diamond.
A last minute change of plans found us looking for a break after a med cruise out of Barcelona. We contacted Paula of Travel Tailors, and she instantly crafted a private tour that captured our interest and satisfied our travel budget.
Paula's custom tailor skills put together an interesting itinerary, covering the highlights of each place of interest. Professional guides, Marco Noivo and Susana Bras, blended in by contributed their expert historical knowledge and background. I can say, I never had such an interesting and exciting lecture in history! I remember Vasco da Gama, but I actually touched his tomb!
Sleeping and eating accommodations also exceeded my expectations. The local restaurants were cozy and provided the ambiance for a relaxing meal and light conversation..and the roasted suckling pig made each step of the way a memorable experience.
Paula, you and your expert staff are to be commended. Your team has made our trip to Portugal an interesting and memorable event that it will certainly bring us back in the future. I have already recommended friends to contact you, and will continue to do so in the future.
Please feel free to share our vacation success with whomever you wish, and should your travel plans bring you to Denver Colorado USA, please plan to spend some time together. Perhaps we can even plan for our next trip to Portugal.
Thanks again!"

Testimunial: "Laurie W. and Russel B., Journey to Portugal, April 2013"

" A number of people asked us - Why Portugal? and we said Why not?
 It is a beautiful country, great people, excellent food and the wine.. Oh the wine is just great! We loved Oporto and it was a great thing that the airline planned a strike for the first few days. The changes to our itinerary were just right since we got to see a bit more of this beautiful country.
Travel Tailors put together a great itinerary for us and went out of their way to make sure our vacation was perfect. They stayed in contact even when we were in Portugal, from meeting us at the airport and sending us off. Our vacation was effortless and we thank Paula and Travel Tailors for this!!!"

Testimunial: "Rui H, Cruise in Douro River, Portugal, August 2012"

"The cruise was very good, good food, good landscapes. We ended up changing our Sunday lunch plans and went up to Gaia, visited the Sandeman Port Wine Cellar (I recommend), and had lunch at a restaurant by the river (A Transmontana, I think). Very Good!
I thank you for your help. We got an excellent impression of you. You are now our reference at home for future trips."

Testemunial: "Vivian D'Adonna, Journey to Portugal, January 2012"

" I have just returned from Portugal, where I spent marvelous moments with my family and we got to know magnificent places and people!!
A big thank you to Paula, from TravelTailors, who was a great help designing our vacation just the way I wanted!!!! I have already told her that I fell in love with Portugal and hope to return shortly to get to know a lot more!!! A big hug and an excellent 2012 to all at TravelTailors! :)"

Testemunial: "Rui R. Journey to Alentejo, Portugal, August 2012"

"The rooms where we stayed were very pleasant. The food at the hotel's restaurant has excellent!
The walk through Alqueva was memorable; the cooking workshop was really fun and educational for the ones that participated in it; although the birdwatching activity was interesting and informative, we believe there is room for improvements. In general, the hotel has a huge potential and the staff is extremely attentive and nice. The documentation provided was on time and adequate."

Testemunial: "António Ottani, Journey to Portugal and Paris, January 2013"

"All the trip planning was excellent, which made it pleasant. It was all very well prepared and divided, which made us enjoy traveling from city to city. The New Year's Eve, that we spent at the Hard Rock Café was excellent!
The participation of the guides was essential, with special mention to Carlos, who accompanied us in Oporto, by his historical knowledge and professionalism. Since we traveled as a family and all together, we didn't have any problem entering or exiting Europe. The required documentation was only the passports and the interview was quick and calm.
The journey exceeded our expectations and we just have to thank you for your commitment and participation in all the planning and all the details."

Testemunial - "João C., Journey to Portugal, Fev 2010"

"I believe Valença is a destiny that I recommend to everyone on any occasion. Historic site - quiet, good to relax, with beautiful views and close to other sites of interest. The hotel has a good service with a nice atmosphere and space."

The Birds of Tejo Estuary

Do you know why flamingos are pink? Or that there are birds called Pied Avocet? The Tejo Estuary Natural Reserve is the ideal destination to obtain the answer to these and many other questions in the company of a biologist. Visit the estuary and participate in a bird observation pedestrian walk for the entire family.

More information here

CANOEING: Minho International River

Canoeing expedition in the river Minho, located in the North of Portugal, between Valencia and Melgaço. In a region full of natural beauty and history, the Minho River is restless and full of emotion. The program includes cultural visits and contact with the local cuisine.

More information here

Atlantic Coast, Porto to Lisbon

Cycle along the Atlantic coast, starting from Porto towards Lisbon! With routes by the ocean side you have the chance to enjoy the west coast sunny beaches, stopping in one beach bar terrace for a coffee or tasting a grilled fresh fish lunch. Cycle paths, nature conservation areas, the Leiria pine forest and the Alcobaça monastery are some of the trip. Enjoy!

More information here

Algarve, Southwest Atlantic Waves

Discover the best of the Portuguese South. A traditional village renewed to receive tourists just next to the last treasure of the Portuguese ocean coast, the southwestern desert and wild beaches. Apart from the beach, surf and scubadiving, the village location is ideal for walking, cycling and nature watching in the Natural Park and Algarve mountains.

More information here

Lisbon, through the hills and beyond

Starting with the premise that we will pick you up where you are, we suggest that you see the sights of this beautiful city, which is a history book in real time, where its citizens still cultivate their old traditions, transmitted through generations which make us all very proud, all of this having as background a beautiful scenery, provided by the 7 hills of Lisbon and Tagus river.

More Information here

Arrábida - Wine, castles and much more...

Crossing the Tagus River in a relaxed way towards the Village of Sesimbra and his magnificent castle, where you will enjoy an endless magnificent landscape. Next stop is the wonderful Natural Park of Arrábida Mountain and his paradise beaches. After lunch you head to Azeitão, where is an area of farms and vineyards. On the way back toLisbon, you will stop at the viewpoint Christ the King.

More information here

Gerês National Park

Take some days off and discover the only National Park in Portugal. Walk by the dense oak forests and listen the water falling down the granite rocky streams. Walk through the old paths connecting traditional villages where you can learn about their ancient way of life and traditions of "Barroso" people. This Park is part of the European PAN Park network, the most pristine areas of Europe.

More information here

Évora

Spend a day exploring the city of Évora, designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, a mosaic of culture, history and traditions. Several miles after Lisbon and the Tagus after crossing the Vasco da Gama bridge, you will be fascinated by the bucolic landscape full of oaks, olive trees and vineyards.

More information here

Lisbon Top 3

Three panoramic bus tours on a single ticket valid for 48 hours. Three different but complementary views of the capital. Tagus Tour will show you the historic centre of the city and the area of Belém, where the historic feats of Portugal's voyages of discovery are guarded. Then jump aboard the Belém Tour and Lisbon Tour minibus for a closer look.

More information here

Lisbon Premium

Take advantage of our 4-in-1 ticket - three panoramic bus tours and a historic tram ride all in one - designed to get you to the city's main sights: the historic area of Belém, the narrow streets ofAlfama, Mouraria and Castelo and modern Lisbon, the Parque das Nações, with its contemporary skyline built by the river.

More information here

Sintra: the most romantic village in Portugal

Immerse yourself in the beauty of Sintra, Portugal's most romantic town and a UNESCO World Heritage Site considered to be one of the world's most unique towns. Enjoy a visit to the picturesque town of Cascais.

More information here

Testemunial: "António Ottani, Journey to Portugal and Paris, January 2013"

"All the trip planning was excellent, which made it pleasant. It was all very well prepared and divided, which made us enjoy traveling from city to city. The New Year's Eve, that we spent at the Hard Rock Café was excellent!
The participation of the guides was essential, with special mention to Carlos, who accompanied us in Oporto, by his historical knowledge and professionalism. Since we traveled as a family and all together, we didn't have any problem entering or exiting Europe. The required documentation was only the passports and the interview was quick and calm.
The journey exceeded our expectations and we just have to thank you for your commitment and participation in all the planning and all the details."

Lisbon at night - Dinner and Fado

A soundtrack of any visit to Lisbon must be fado, the musical genre that is a window to the Portuguese soul. This evening tour allows you to immerse in the atmosphere of the city before dinner at a restaurant with fado how special monitoring. The evening will start with a panoramic tour of some of the most important sites and monuments, both as monumental suburb of Belém in Lisbon center.

More information here

The Mystic Ride - Sintra, Cascais and Belém

From Lisbon we go to the mysterious and fascinating Village of Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to explore its beautiful landscapes and cultural/natural heritage. Then we take you to the most westerly point of continental Europe. After is Cascais, a former fishing village. We continue till

Belém, where you can see history in real time.

More information here

Hills Tramcar Tour

Wind your way through the hills of Lisbon and discover its most historic quarters, where people chat from their window ledges and clothes hang out to dry in the sun. The contrasts in this richly diverse city will amaze you. From the simplicity of the traditional quarters of Alfama, Castelo and Bairro Alto, to the sophistication of Lapa. Take the chance to visit this city in a historic Tramcar.

More information here

Belém Tour

The monuments in Belém are cultural icons and a must-see on any tour itinerary. Because of the unique combination of historical and cultural monuments located here, such as the Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower or Monument to the Discoveries, the best way to visit all of them is on a Belém Tour.

More information here

North of Lisbon - Óbidos, Alcobaça, Nazaré, Fátima and Batalha

Make it a full day tour and discover the region north of Lisbon. The first stop is the medieval town of Obidos. Then Alcobaça with its imposing Gothic church. The next stop will be Nazareth, a traditional fishing village. Then we will visit Battle, with its imposing Dominican monastery, before heading to Fatima, where is the world famous Catholic shrine.

More information here