WHO WE ARE IN SHORT, WE OFFER FUN TRAVEL EXPERIENCES FOR 18-35 YEAR OLDS. AT CONTIKI, WE EXIST TO CONNECT YOUNG TRAVELERS TO THE TIME OF THEIR LIVES. WHEN YOU TRAVEL WITH US, YOU’LL GET MORE – MORE CHOICE, MORE PREMIUM INCLUSIONS, MORE FREE TIME, AND MORE BANG FOR YOUR BUCK. WE REINVENTED GROUP TRAVEL FOR YOUNG EXPLORERS OVER 50 YEARS AGO AND HAVE ONLY GOTTEN BETTER AT IT.
THE CONTIKI DIFFERENCE TEAM
FOOD
The Contiki Team is what makes our trips so unique. Our crew gets put through a 66-day training (the hardest in the biz) and knows each destination from A to Z. More than that, each member of our team is passionate about travel.
Indulging in delicious eats is one of the best things about travel. With Contiki, our travelers will see and taste each and every destination they visit. From Italian classics in Europe to fresh curries in Asia, outback cookouts in Australia, and traditional BBQ in Brazil, we indulge the foodie within.
INCLUSIONS Contiki offers more inclusions than anyone else. It’s our mission to show travelers all the must-see sites, so they’re included in our trip price (plus lots of entry fees and Contiki-only exclusive like line skipping).
ME TIME We’re there to guide your group every step of the way, but if they want free time to do their own thing, that’s fine too. The only things fixed are the places we visit. We call it ME Time.
GETTING AROUND With Contiki, your group won’t have to worry about how they’ll get to their next destination. Plus, our transportation is so much more than a modern coach (most with WiFi & power outlets). We mix it up with some fun ways to travel like the locals do! Experience internal flights, trains, private minibuses, tuk-tuks and boats, plus lots more.
The taste of fresh espresso in Rome... The bustling streets of NYC... The hot Aussie sun on your back...
OVER 250 TRIPS TO 50 COUNTRIES ACROSS 6 CONTINENTS No matter your group’s travel style, we have a trip to suit...
EUROPE ASIA LATIN AMERICA AUSTRALIA NEW ZEALAND USA & CANADA
ONE LIFE. ONE SHOT. MAKE IT COUNT.
WHY CONTIKI FOR YOUR
GROUP?
OUR TRIPS INCLUDE MORE SIGHTS, MORE ACTIVITIES, MORE AUTHENTIC LOCAL FOOD, MORE FREE TIME, AND MORE CENTRALLY LOCATED PLACES TO STAY. Plus your group will have a dedicated Trip Manager and Driver who know every single detail of each destination, taking the stress and guesswork out of travel so that the group can focus more on making every moment count. Whether you’re looking to block space on a scheduled departure or for a completely customized trip, Contiki Groups is here to help. From helping select the perfect trip (we have over 250 to choose from) to personalizing an itinerary based on your needs and requirements, we make traveling easy, fun, and hassle-free.
GROUPS@CONTIKI.COM
WHERE WE GO
No two travelers are the same & we know that. That’s why we offer choice, choice & more choice.
EUROPE
There’s no other continent on Earth that combines such a mix of culture, history, creativity, and sheer awesomeness. Europe is what life is all about: discovery. With 8 travel styles as unique as your group whether you’re looking to experience it all in a short period of time, take more time to really soak up the culture of a single country, or would prefer an experience in-between, we have options to please.
USA & CANADA
Explore the bronzed beaches, snowy mountain tops, cityscapes and natural wonders of USA & Canada. With trips throughout North America, you can explore the majestic hotspots of our own continent from one coast to the other.
LATIN AMERICA
Looking to swap your daily routine for rolling mountains, dense jungle, Caribbean coastlines, and ancient ruins? Latin America is calling. Our small group Latin America trips (20-30 people) explore Argentina, Belize, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Guatemala, Mexico, and Peru.
ASIA
Traveling in Asia is about contrasts and diversity, smiling faces, extraordinary moments and time to discover along the way. Our small group Asia trips (about 20-30 people) offer a great mix of the must-see sites as well as hidden gems you’d miss without a guide in-the-know. Whether you’re looking to explore Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, China, or Japan, the choice is yours.
AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND
Australia and New Zealand have so much to offer; whether you choose to see both countries or just immerse yourself in one, there are so many options for your group. Australia is all about year-round sun, beautiful beaches, and impressive landscapes. New Zealand is all about adventure, adrenaline, big backdrops and some of the best sights in the world.
BLOCKED SPACE VS.
CUSTOM GROUP WHICH OPTION IS RIGHT FOR YOUR GROUP? Contiki takes groups around the world to the most exciting destinations. Have a group of 20 or less between the ages of 18-35 and don’t mind traveling with other Contiki enthusiasts? Try blocking space on a scheduled departure. Looking for more exclusivity and age flexibility for your group of 20+? Opt for a custom group. Either way, traveling with Contiki will save money and time.
BLOCKED SPACE
ON SCHEDULED DEPARTURES
5 FAQs
ABOUT BLOCKED SPACE GROUPS Q: How long can Contiki block/ hold group space on a scheduled departure? A: With contract, we can hold space from 60-90 days prior to the departure date (depending on the region). A $200 per person non-refundable deposit is required to reserve space.
Q: Are there age restrictions? A: Contiki’s scheduled departures are solely for young travelers between the ages of 18-35 (at the time of travel). If you have a group of 20+ travelers under the age of 18 (but over the age of 13), a custom group trip can be arranged.
PERFECT FOR UNIVERSITIES & ORGANIZED GROUPS OR CLUBS No up-front financial commitment necessary!
Q: Can the departure date or itinerary of a scheduled departure be changed for my group?
Contiki has over 250 trips to 50 countries across 6 continents. If you have a group between the ages of 18-35 (at the time of travel) and don’t mind sharing the experience with other fellow Contiki enthusiasts then blocking space on a scheduled departure is for you. Simply check out our trips in one of our brochures or at Contiki.com and pick the departure date that works best for your group.
A: Unfortunately no. The departure dates and dayto-day itineraries for scheduled departures are set and cannot be changed. There are lots of departure date options to choose from and tons of free time built into our itineraries for your group to explore (or do other activities) on their own.
SPECIAL SAVINGS & DEALS FOR BLOCKED SPACE
Q: What’s included?
$50 MEMBER BENEFIT
accommodations, daily breakfasts, some dinners, a dedicated Trip Manager & Driver, transportation on a modern air-conditioned coach (most with WiFi & power outlets), sightseeing in all major cities & tons of special inclusions (like line skipping). Check out our brochure or contiki.com for full trip itineraries & inclusions.
As a thank you for choosing Contiki, each member of your group will receive a $50 Optional Excursion Voucher in their booking documents. What’s an Optional Excursion Voucher? It’s basically Contiki cash that your client can use towards oncein-a-lifetime experiences (“ME Time Optionals”) while on their trip!
ME Time Optional Examples Gondola ride in Venice (US$29*)
Kayak through the Peruvian rainforest (US $48*)
Explore the Waitomo Caves in New Zealand (US$37*)
* Prices accurate as of 10/01/2014
MARKET OFFERS VISIT CONTIKI.COM/DEALS TO SEE WHAT OFFERS WE HAVE AVAILABLE.
BOOKING INCENTIVES ASK US ABOUT OUR GROUP ORGANIZER BENEFITS & REWARDS.
A: All scheduled departure trips include
Q: Who do I contact if I have questions or am ready to block space? A: If you have questions, send us an email @
groups@contiki.com. Ready to book? Visit contiki.com/groups to download your form, or fill out the Blocked Space Request Form at the back of this folder, and email it to groups@contiki.com.
CUSTOM GROUP TRIPS
5 FAQs
ABOUT CUSTOM GROUP TRIPS Q: How long can Contiki hold custom group space? A: A custom group quote is valid for two weeks. A nonrefundable $500 is required to reserve space and lock in your quoted price.
MORE AGE, GROUP SIZE & ITINERARY FLEXIBILITY
Looking to create a custom adventure for your group? If you have a group of 20+ travelers and are looking for more flexibility (be it age requirements, itinerary, or departure date), a custom group trip with Contiki is the option for you. Contiki’s worked with many High Schools, Universities, Colleges & special interest groups to customize the perfect itinerary for their needs. Simply let us know what you are looking for. We will take your travel schedule, budget, group size and special requirements into consideration to create an option best suited to your needs.
Q: Can we get a breakdown of the number of meals that are included in the itinerary? A: Of course. Just let us know how many breakfasts, lunches, or dinners you would like or if you would like to include all meals.
Q: Are the quotes based on single or twin-share accommodations? A: Quotes are based on twin-share accommodations unless otherwise requested. Please let us know if you require single, triple, or quad-share accommodations.
Q: Is travel insurance mandatory? A: Yes and no. Travel insurance is mandatory for
CUSTOM GROUP REQUIREMENTS • All travelers must be between the ages of 13-35 (at the time of travel):
– 1 chaperone to every 10 passengers ages 13-17 – There is no age restriction for chaperones – There are exceptions to the rule, just ask
• Minimum of 20 passengers required for all regions Coach size limitations by region: •
– Maximum of 51 passengers on coaches in Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and USA & Canada (if you have a larger group, we can always add another coach) – Maximum of 30 passengers on groups in Asia & Latin America
• Payment:
– A non-refundable $500 deposit is required to book your custom group space – This $500 deposit locks in the quoted price (final payment in full for the group is due 60 days prior to departure)
• Land component is based on NET pricing Group airfare to & from your trip starting/ending location can be quoted if requested •
BOOKING INCENTIVES ASK US ABOUT OUR GROUP ORGANIZER BENEFITS & REWARDS.
all trips to Asia and Latin America and strongly recommended for all trips to Europe, Australia, New Zealand, USA & Canada. You can purchase travel insurance through Contiki for an additional fee per person or through a 3rd party company.
Q: Who do I contact if I have questions or am ready to commit to a custom group trip? A: If you have questions, send us an email @
groups@contiki.com. Ready to book? Visit contiki.com/groups to download your form, or fill out the Custom Group Request Form at the back of this folder, and email it to groups@contiki.com.
TESTIMONIALS “ BOY SCOUT CUSTOM GROUP TRIP EUROPE - 8 DAYS “We had a very large group with a lot of special requests. Booking with Contiki was smooth and problem-free. The staff was very attentive and accessible, and went way beyond the extra mile to accommodate our needs. Once our trip began, our guide was engaging, personable, knowledgeable and fun. The driver was capable, punctual and safe. The trip made a big impression on our young travelers and was a meaningful and formative experience for them.” William Walker Boy Scout Troup Leader
“ UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS GRAD TRIP BLOCKED SPACE EUROPEAN DISCOVERY - 13 DAYS “While many of the partnerships with alumni associations are similar in nature, Contiki is always willing to share new and creative ideas for passenger acquisition, or suggesting marketing strategies that have worked at other schools that could be implemented with your population.” Bridget Doyle Associate Director, Alumni Travel University of Illinois Alumni Association
CUSTOM GROUPS
WHAT WE NEED TO KNOW OUR MISSION IS SIMPLE; TO HELP ALLEVIATE THE HASSLE OF TRAVEL PLANNING SO YOUR GROUP (AND YOU) DON’T HAVE TO WORRY ABOUT ALL THE LITTLE DETAILS. In order to help us help you, please be specific in exactly what services you require and would like included in your quote. Here are some trip elements to keep in mind when preparing your specifications...
GROUPS@CONTIKI.COM
TRIP ELEMENTS TO CONSIDER BEFORE REQUESTING YOUR CUSTOM GROUP QUOTE
ITINERARY
For a successful trip, we suggest allowing ample time between stopovers. Consider some 2-3 night stays. Don’t get too caught up in the details. We can always assist you in your itinerary planning once you provide us with the basic itinerary outline.
TIP
Using an existing scheduled departure for your basic itinerary outline will save you time.
SIGHTSEEING
We recommend including a city introduction tour at all cities your group will be staying overnight.
TIP
If you would like more sightseeing inclusions, ME Time optional activities can be added to your quote. This will reduce extra costs incurred during the trip. Just let us know what you’re looking for.
FOOD
For custom group trips, all meals are tailored to your group’s specifications. Just let us know how many breakfasts, lunches, or dinners you would like included. Want them all included? Just say the word. Not sure where to start? Here are some tips: BREAKFASTS: Our trips normally start each morning with a traditional continental breakfast (either a buffet or a fully-cooked breakfast). LUNCHES: Experience has taught us that most people have their own ideas about a mid-day meal, so we normally give our travelers the free time to have lunch their own way. DINNERS: Contiki dinners are usually buffet-style or three-course meals served at the hotel or a nearby restaurant. The normal practice is to include dinners on traveling days. If the group is spending a second night somewhere, we suggest allowing free time to explore and find dinner on their own (they can always ask the Trip Manager for insider-tips and recommendations). We recommend including a couple special meals, unique to each destination, as a great way to experience the local flavors and culture.
ACCOMMODATIONS
Your quote will be based on 3 star tourist class hotels with twin-share accommodations. If you are looking for something different, please include those details in your quote request. Once your quote is accepted, we can discuss what mix of singles, twins, triples or quad-share rooms you expect within the group.
F.O.C. (FREE OF CHARGE)
This usually applies to the Trip Leader or person who has worked at promoting/ organizing the group. Please state the number of F.O.C.’s required and whether twin-share or single-room accommodations are preferred.
STANDARD INCLUSIONS It is our company policy to include the following inclusions as standard on all custom group trips: •A professional experienced Trip Manager •A ll transportation while traveling and a dedicated Driver • All service charges & taxes for hotels and restaurants (where meals are provided by Contiki) • All port and hotel transfers PLEASE NOTE: If comparing our quote with others, please ensure that all things are equal. Even the slightest difference can increase or decrease the cost of the trip – i.e. category and location of suggested hotels, number and quality of included meals, and amount of sightseeing and entrance fees included.
BLOCKED SPACE & CUSTOM GROUP
REQUEST FORMS QUESTIONS? Email groups@contiki.com or contact your Regional Sales Executive. READY TO BOOK? Fill out the Request Form or visit Contiki.com/Groups to download a copy. Please submit to groups@contiki.com.
VISIT CONTIKI.COM/GROUPS EMAIL GROUPS@CONTIKI.COM CONTACT YOUR REGIONAL SALES EXECUTIVE