Frequently Asked Questions
What do I need to enter the United States?
Passport: Make sure your passport is valid for the entire duration of your stay in the United States.
Visa (if necessary): Canadian citizens do not need a visa. If you are not a Canadian resident, you will need to register for the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) before your departure.
Traveling with children:
Canadian citizen children under 16 years old arriving by land from a contiguous territory can present their birth certificate or another relevant document, such as a naturalization certificate.
For children aged 6 to 17 traveling with only one parent/guardian, friends, relatives, or a group, a parental consent letter is required. You can find more information here: Parental Consent Letter.
Teenagers aged 16 to 18 will need a passport, just like adults.
Tip: Do not attempt to cross the border without the necessary documents or permits. A family was denied entry into the United States during a previous trip, and we want to avoid any unpleasant situations.
Do I need travel insurance?
It is highly recommended to purchase travel insurance before leaving. Healthcare costs in the United States are private and can be very expensive. Insurance can cover unexpected medical expenses, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen situations (Prov. 22:3).
Important Message from Bethel: "Do not visit Bethel if you have tested positive for COVID-19, show cold-like symptoms, or have been in contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19."
Unforeseen last-minute situations (COVID-19, accidents, delays in obtaining documents, job loss, the death of a loved one, etc.) could prevent you from traveling. For this reason, it is strongly recommended to purchase trip cancellation insurance in addition to travel health insurance to protect yourself in case of emergencies. In 2024, two individuals were unable to obtain refunds because they did not purchase cancellation insurance.
Can I travel alone?
It is not recommended. Most travelers come with their family or friends. It is much safer in case of health problems or other difficulties. It would be good for someone else on the bus to know you personally, even if they are not sharing your room.
How to book?
First, you will need to complete the form. Once your request is approved, we will send you the information to make your non-refundable deposit.
Payments will be made through the travel agency Voyages Fiesta (affiliated with Voyage Bethel), which will hold the funds in trust. You can pay by credit card (2.9% surcharge), Interac, or direct transfer (no fee). An invoice will be provided to ensure the security of your payment.
Can the basic itinerary change?
Your tour leader and supervisor will always strive to adhere to the content of your package as much as possible, prioritizing your safety. However, the itinerary may change due to various factors beyond our control, such as traffic, weather conditions, crowd levels, accidents, mechanical breakdowns, etc.
When should I tip?
Restaurants: It is customary to leave a tip of 15% to 20% of the total bill, depending on the quality of service. Some restaurants may include a service charge for large groups.
Hotels: Housekeeping staff should receive a daily tip, typically between $2 and $5 per day, depending on the number of people in the room.
Guides: The group responsible for Bible tours suggests budgeting around $10 USD per person for the MET Museum guide, as the tour lasts more than 3 hours and the guides are not paid.
Bus driver: The recommended rate is $3 to $5 per day per person.
Tour leaders: You can also tip the group’s tour leaders.
Are wheelchairs available?
Yes, wheelchairs are available at Bethels and the museum. However, there may be instances where we need to walk a certain distance without wheelchairs available, such as during a city visit. You can inquire about the possibility of bringing your own walker or wheelchair in the luggage compartment. It would be helpful if someone in your group is designated to push your wheelchair.
Am I too old to travel?
Regardless of your age, what matters most is your physical condition. The insurance we offer can cover people of all ages. While most places visited have wheelchairs available, some walking and stairs are required. In the past, we have welcomed passengers over 80 years old in better shape than some 60-year-olds. However, it is essential not to travel if you have received medical advice against it.
Are there children's rates?
Babies traveling on a lap do not pay. Any child requiring a seat on the bus and a bed in the room must pay the regular rate unless a discount is offered. If you need a room for five people, please let us know to check if the hotel allows it.
What is double, triple, or quadruple occupancy?
Double occupancy is for two people in a room.
Triple occupancy is for three people.
Quadruple occupancy is for four people in the same room.
The price listed is PER PERSON. Some trips may allow five or six people in the same room if there is a suite with a sofa bed.
For couples in double occupancy, you will normally have one King bed. If you are two people of the same gender, you will have two Queen beds (adjustments can be requested if necessary). For triple or quadruple occupancy, you will share two Queen beds.
What other expenses should I budget for my trip to New York?
Meals: Lunches and dinners are not included. You may bring a lunch to eat at Warwick. A grocery store is available near the hotel for purchasing food. Approximate costs for two meals per day at a restaurant range from $30 to $50 USD.
Metropolitan Museum entry fee (subject to change):
Adult: $30 USD
65 and older: $22 USD
Students: $12 USD
Other personal expenses: Budget for personal purchases.
What foods cannot cross U.S. customs?
There are restrictions on importing certain foods, including fruits, vegetables, meat, and dairy products. For more details, consult U.S. Customs Food Restrictions.
If I can no longer go, are there cancellation fees?
The deposit is non-refundable.
More than 60 days before departure: Loss of deposit.
Between 60 and 31 days before departure: 50% of the total trip cost.
30 days or less before departure: No refund.
Traveler substitution: $25 fee at any time.
For more information, contact Jérémie Lavoie at the following address:
Contact
info@voyagebethel.ca