Health & Money Matters
HEALTH MATTERS
VACCINATIONS
Currently there are no mandatory vaccinations for visitors to any of our destinations, but it is a good idea to be current on your routine immunizations, i.e. tetanus shots. We suggest you consult your doctor for recommendations.
ACTIVITY LEVELS
Our included sightseeing itineraries are outstanding, but some can be strenuous; therefore a reasonable level of fitness is recommended (some passengers may choose to take a break on certain days). The Shore Excursion guide and the Daily Program will indicate the level of walking required on excursions. All guests need to be self-sufficient or have an able-bodied guest traveling with them to take full responsibility for any assistance that may be required. There are times
when access to sites can be restrictive for those with mobility issues. Guests with mobility or medical issues that require routine use of medical apparatus, such as a Zimmer frame or wheelchair should have advised Voyages to Antiquity in writing at time of deposit.
PRESCRIPTION MEDICINES, EYEGLASSES
Please be sure to bring extra supplies of your prescription medicines as not all medications are the same in each country. It is also helpful to have copies of your prescriptions with you on your travels. If you are a diabetic, insulin can be stored in the Medical Center, and Concierge Class staterooms are equipped with a mini-refrigerator. Arrangements will also be made for safe disposal of sharps. Similarly, it is highly recommended that you bring a duplicate pair of eyeglasses or contact lens along with a copy of the prescription in case there is a replacement need.
MONEY MATTERS ONBOARD
A “cashless” system is operated onboard the Aegean Odyssey with all purchases charged to your cabin account. The final account can be settled in US$ or UK£ at the end of the cruise. Visa, MasterCard and American Express credit cards (a surcharge may apply), some bank issued debit cards, cash and travelers checks can be used for settlement. Personal checks cannot be accepted.
Onboard, cash exchange facilities are usually available at the Purser’s office and the rate of exchange is based on the current tourist rate. There is a small fee for exchange of funds onboard, similar to what you would expect to pay any other currency exchange facility.
GRATUITIES ONBOARD
Your cruise fare includes gratuities to your cabin steward and the dining room staff. Guests, at their own discretion, may wish to also show appreciation to individuals offering exceptional service. A service charge of 12.5% is automatically added to your account for any bar service.
MONEY MATTERS ASHORE
CURRENCY EXCHANGE RATES
For up-to-the-minute exchange rates, consult a major newspaper or bank. You can also check via the web at www.xe.net . There is no need to obtain local currency before your trip, although we suggest that you exchange some money at the airport on arrival. ATM's are widely available in most international
airports. Traveler's checks may be difficult to exchange and personal checks are generally not accepted overseas.
Credit cards, Euros, US dollars and debit cards are accepted virtually everywhere. If you use a credit card, you may want to compare the fees your card charges
beforehand and verify that it can be used internationally. Note that many banks impose a fee for ATM usage, so check with your bank for overseas affiliations.
GRATUITIES ASHORE
Porterage of your luggage is included between the Aegean Odyssey and the port customs areas, and if you have purchased air or optional land programs from Voyages to Antiquity, overseas airport and overseas hotel porterage is also included (except inside baggage halls where our staff or porters are not allowed to enter). If you are traveling independently of Voyages to Antiquity air or land programs, a good rule of thumb for porterage is $2 to $3 per bag.
On shore excursions, it is customary to show your appreciation to the guide and driver and we recommend the following guideline:
- Local Guide, per person: $2 to $3 depending on tour length
- Driver, per person: $1 to $2 depending on tour length
