Please Contact Us with any questions you may have
Frequently Asked Questions
We hope the information below will answer some of your questions, but if not, please contact us, and we will be glad to help. Please note that the following information only applies to Footstep Ministries' adult enrichment tours.
Before Traveling
Do I need a passport?
Yes. A valid passport is required to leave the USA. It should be valid for a minimum of six months after your departure date. If you do not have a passport, apply for one immediately. Please check with the US Department of State for more detailed information as rules and regulations often change. Make copies of the main page from your passport to leave with family and a copy to carry with you while traveling as a backup. A copy of the photo page of your passport must be sent to our office by 90 days prior to departure.
How do I get a passport?
Obtain an application at your nearest passport office, courthouse, or post office. You will need a certified birth certificate (with raised seal and file number), and 2 duplicate non-glossy photographs measuring 2” x 2”, taken within six months of application. For more info regarding passports, you can go online to: www.travel.state.gov.
Will I need a visa?
US citizens do not need a visa for Greece, Italy, or Israel. (The airlines ask you to fill out the Israel visa during the flight.) Non-US citizens (including green card holders) must contact the respective consulates for visa information. Please check with the US Department of State for updates.
Visas are required for all citizens traveling to Turkey. Footstep Ministries will obtain a group visa for the US and Canadian citizens once all passport information has been submitted to our office.
Will I need vaccinations?
None are required, but you may wish to contact your personal physician for his/her advice.
Will my tour schedule ever change?
Every effort will be made to ensure you see the sites listed in your program; however, we reserve the right to alter the sightseeing itinerary to accommodate changes in local conditions and/or circumstances. If possible, you will be notified of any changes that are made to this itinerary prior to departing the U.S.
Getting There
What airline will be used?
We use many commercial airlines, including but not limited to Lufthansa, Delta, British Air, El Al, Olympic, Alitalia, Turkish Air, and Aegean.
When may I receive my flight information?
International flight information will be available approximately 30 days prior to departure; domestic flight information will be available approximately 2-3 weeks prior to departure.
May I purchase my own international tickets?
Yes. But remember, airport / hotel / pier / airport transfers are not provided to passengers who have provided their own transportation. If you are a “ground only” passenger, you will meet the group at the first hotel and leave the group at the last hotel. If you purchase your own transportation, you will be responsible for making your own travel arrangements to/from the international airports.
NOTE: Due to increased security at the airports, we recommend arriving at least two to three hours prior to departure for domestic flights. Arrive at the departure airport at least three hours prior to departure for international flights (whenever possible.)
Who is responsible for any airline schedule changes and/or expense?
All flight times are subject to change by the airlines without advance notice. FM is not responsible for changes and/or delays in airline schedules, nor the expense associated with such changes.
What if I miss my flight or it is canceled on the day of departure?
Contact FM immediately. The airline’s responsibility is to get you to your destination as quickly as possible. Be sure to call our office with your new arrival information.
May I request special seating and/or meals on the flights?
Yes, requests should be submitted in writing no later than 90 days prior to departure. We cannot, however, guarantee your request will be honored by the airline.
Will a company representative be available at the airport?
Our personnel will meet groups upon arrival at your final destination and will help with return departures to the US. In most cases, there will not be a Footstep Ministries representative at US airports. Many groups traveling with FM will have their own tour host traveling with them who will assist with arrangements while in transit.
Will all flights go through New York/JFK?
No. Groups may depart from several of the major international departure gateways throughout the US.
How much luggage am I allowed to bring?
Due to limited space available on buses for luggage, only one suitcase and one carry-on bag per person is allowed. Please check with the airlines on which you will be traveling for their restrictions. Garment bags are not allowed. Your final itinerary package (“Final Instructions”) will include a luggage tag to be placed on your checked luggage. We strongly recommend you also add your own luggage tag on both your checked and carry-on luggage.
Note: Porters will not handle your carry-on luggage.
Note: Carry-on must fit under seat or in overhead compartments of the plane.
Suggestions for packing:
If you are traveling as a couple, you may want to pack clothes for both in each suitcase. This way, if one suitcase is lost, each person will have clothing to wear.
On the Tour
What if my luggage is lost or damaged?
File a claim at the airport before you leave the baggage claim area. It will be the airline’s responsibility to get lost luggage to you or to compensate you for damaged luggage. Footstep Ministries will do our best to follow-up with the airlines but the responsibility ultimately rests with the airline. We strongly suggest that you pack at least one change of clothes in your carry-on bag.
What to expect upon arrival at the airport.
After going through passport control, you will need to collect your luggage (luggage carts may be free or available for an extra charge) and pass through customs.
What will I do with my luggage at the hotel?
Upon arriving at the hotel, you will be asked to label your bag (with a sticker provided by the hotel) with your hotel room number. The porters will then bring your bag to your hotel room. You will be responsible for your carry-on.
What are the hotel rooms like?
Hotel rooms are European First Class or better. Each room will have a private bath, TV and phone. Most European hotels do not provide washcloths, so you may want to bring your own but do not leave them in the bathroom as the staff will whisk them away into the laundry and you will probably never see them again.
Can I get a single room?
Single rooms are available and require the payment of a single room supplement. Single travelers should know that European hotels generally reserve their smallest, most simple rooms for single travelers. Single travelers may request a roommate in order to room in a double room, although it is not guaranteed that a roommate will be available.
Are hair dryers available?
All hotels have hair dryers in the rooms. If you bring your own, remember the voltage is 220, so you will need your adapter and converter for all electrical appliances.
What meals are included in my journey?
Meals provided depend on the particular tour. Please see your particular brochure/itinerary for more complete information
How long is the typical sightseeing day?
On some days, you will depart the hotel between 7:00-9:00Am and return during the late afternoon. The day before each excursions Footstep Ministries will announce the sightseeing schedule for the following day.
Currency and Purchases
How much money should I bring?
Most everything has been included in your tour cost with the exception of lunches (on certain tours), shopping and optional excursions (where applicable).
What type of currency is used?
Euro in Greece and Italy, Turkish Lira in Turkey, Shekels in Israel. In Israel, however, US currency is widely accepted.
Should I exchange some money before departure?
It is always good to exchange dollars ahead of time if you wish to purchase anything at international airports while in transit. Of course, credit cards are widely accepted. Check ahead of time with your credit card company for fees.
Will ATMs be available?
ATMs are available at local banks. The money you receive will be in the local currency. Check with your bank for the fees for services while abroad.
What about travelers checks and credit cards?
If you use travelers checks you may experience difficulty using and/or cashing them. In addition, banks usually charge a significant handling fee when cashing travelers checks. Credit cards are recommended for larger purchases. VISA and MasterCard are much more prevalent than Discovery and American Express. Some stores (especially in Israel) accept checks.
Will US currency be accepted for small purchases?
More so in Israel than other places for small purchases, but it is best to use the local currency if possible.
Will I be able to shop while during the program?
Time will be allotted for shopping. While some will feel that too much time is spent for shopping, others will think it is not enough. Enjoy your shopping experience. FM often recommends certain shops for their honestly and quality of goods but feel free to shop wherever you like.
What about the “VAT” or Value Added Tax?
VAT (Value Added Tax) is a sales tax that is charged for most goods. This amount is part of the price – not added on at the cash register. It is possible for you to claim back most of this tax. The best way to do this is to see if the retailer you are buying from is affiliated with “Tax Free” shopping. If so, they will give you the instructions for your refund. Generally, all you have to do is collect a completed form from the store which lists your purchases. You MUST have the form stamped by customs when you leave the country. Look for the TAX FREE SHOPPING symbol.
Note: Specific procedures may vary by country, so look for forms and instructions at stores or the airport. FM is not responsible for refunding you any VAT. In addition, VAT cannot be recovered once you have returned home.
What about gratuities?
Prepaid gratuities have been collected for the following staff persons: guide, driver, hotel dining room staff, bell man/porters and housekeeping. You will not need to tip for standard services as all tips will be distributed to these staff persons by FM. If, however, you request special services from the staff, additional gratuities are expected. On cruises tipping is not part of the tour package. Tips are paid in one sum at the end of the cruise and can be applied to your credit card while aboard ship if so desired.
General Inforamtion
What are the buses like?
The deluxe touring motor coaches are air-conditioned and will accommodate approximately 50 passengers.
Are there rest rooms on the buses?
No, but sufficient stops will be made for the comfort of our passengers.
May I request a special diet?
We will try to satisfy requests for special diets if furnished in writing at least 60 days prior to the departure. However, it should be understood that the dietary requirements of passengers suffering from disabilities or health problems, as well as children, are the responsibility of the passenger.
Should I bring my prescription medicines?
Bring your medicine in the original bottle. Also, bring a copy of the generic names for each. If you have medications which need to be refrigerated, you will need to make the appropriate arrangements with the airlines, hotels and cruise line.
An ID bracelet or a note from your doctor regarding any special treatments you are receiving will prove invaluable in the event of an emergency. Always carry medication that is needed on a daily basis in your carry-on.
I have limited mobility. What special facilities are available?
Due to the lack of handicapped accessible facilities, persons needing wheelchairs or ambulatory assistance will find travel on this program quite difficult and many sites will be inaccessible.
Please Note: Due to liability, FM staff members are not allowed to assist passengers who are using wheelchairs or other mobility devices.
What about travel protection coverage?
We highly recommend trip insurance, yet this insurance is optional (unless stated differently in travel brochure). Upon registration, we provide an insurance pack with more information regarding the type of coverage available. You may get a quote and/or purchase trip insurance by clicking here.
Note: Keep in mind your medical insurance policy may not provide coverage abroad. Medicare and Medicaid are not valid outside the US. If you are forced to cancel your trip at the last minute due to an emergency in your immediate family, you forfeit all money paid for your trip. And, if you have a medical emergency requiring emergency evacuation to a location providing specific medical care, you would have to pay for that emergency evacuation.
What if I lose something on the program?
Leave valuables, including items of sentimental value, at home! Put your name, address, and departure date on all belongings so that any recovered items will be returned as quickly as possible. Shipping costs will be your responsibility. We suggest you make a list of all items you take along with their perceived value. Double check before you leave the hotel, bus, airplane, etc. FM will not assume responsibility for lost items.
What about prepaid phone cards?
If you decide to purchase cards here or overseas, you will need a card or access for each country. (Make sure your prepaid card is for international use.) If you have a cell phone you can check with your local provider for International Service.
Is there any free time during the program?
Each day is well paced, and generally one day is set aside as a free-day. Check with your particular itinerary.
How much walking is required?
Good physical and mental health will allow you to participate to the fullest in all the programs offered. Remember, overseas flights are long and tiring. Many sites are located on hills with a good number of steps. At any time, if you need to relax during the day, you will find that there are often great places where you can sit and enjoy the sites. Check with your doctor for medical advice applicable to the trip and your health.
Physical Requirements
To enjoy your travel experience, participants must be in good health, ambulatory, and be able to keep up with the pace of the group. Participants requiring extraordinary assistance must be accompanied by someone who can and will provide all required assistance. Some of our trips require a lot of walking, and some are less strenuous. If you have questions about the physical requirements of individual tours, please call our office for assistance.
Any last minute items I shouldn’t forget?
Bible, sunglasses, a sun hat, sunscreen, wipes and wash cloths, camera (and battery charger) and sundry toiletry items are musts. You may wish to bring a calculator for exchange rates while shopping. Passengers bringing video cameras are advised that museums and archeological sites frequently charge a fee for their use. In the event of inclement weather, bring a light waterproof jacket or an umbrella.
Any other tips?
Yes…
1. Be on time for the bus and be prepared to rotate seats on the bus.
2. Settle personal charges the night before checking out of the hotel.
3. Notify your Tour Leader.
4. No smoking allowed in dining room, on bus or in lecture hall.
5. Remember you are a guest in another country…
Be gracious…Expect that customs and food will be different than at home.
Greece
What is the weather like in Greece?
To see a graph of the average high and low temperatures in Greece, please click here.
What currency will I need in Greece?
Greece uses the Euro. To see a current conversion rate between the Dollar and Euro, please click here. (Note: the number listed is how many Euros you will get per dollar)
Italy
What is the weather like in Italy?
To see a graph of the average high and low temperatures in Italy, please click here.
What currency will I need in Italy?
Italy uses the Euro. To see a current conversion rate between the Dollar and Euro, please
click here. (Note: the number listed is how many Euros you will get per dollar)
Turkey
What is the weather like in Turkey?
To see a graph of the average high and low temperatures in Turkey, please click here.
What currency will I need in Turkey?
Turkey uses the New Turkish Lira. To see a current conversion rate between the Dollar and the New Turkish Lira, please click here. (Note: the number listed is how many Lira you will get per dollar)
Israel
What is the weather like in Israel?
To see a graph of the average high and low temperatures in Israel, please click here.
What currency will I need in Israel?
Israel uses the New Israel Shekel. To see a current conversion rate between the Dollar and New Israel Shekel, please click here. (Note: the number listed is how many Shekels you will get per dollar)
Oberammergau
What is the weather like in Germany?
To see a graph of the average high and low temperatures in Germany, please click here.
What currency will I need in Germany?
Germany uses the Euro. To see a current conversion rate between the Dollar and Euro, please click here. (Note: the number listed is how many Euros you will get per dollar)
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