BRITISH
VIRGIN ISLANDS
SAILING
REFERENCE
GUIDE
www.WWTrek.com www.HumanOutreachProject.org
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A Journey by Land, Sea and Air... Sailing aboard our private sailboat offers you the opportunity for intimate exploration each step of your adventure. Be in the moment as you take in your surroundings, experience the culture, learn about the history, plants, animals, landscape, and meet local people on your journey. This is why we travel.
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THE WWTREK TEAM Dean Cardinale, Founder & Lead Guide Sarah Pendleton, Art Director & Executive Assistant Gale Dahlager, Adventure Travel Specialist & Guide Patrick Reddish, Adventure Travel Specialist & Guide Ed Chauner, Adventure Travel Specialist & Guide Brian Sorenson CPA, Accountant Julie Stout, Guest Relations / Reservations Coordinator Mellisa Waller, Human Outreach Project Phil Levy, MD, MPH Medical Advisor Whitney VerSteeg, Administrative Assistant Oz Marketing, Web Design VOCUS, Public Relations Sean Zimmerman Wall, Staff Writer Sandra Turay, Staff Writer Jay Dash, New Business Development / Staff Photographer 4 ò WORLD WIDE TREKKING
I want to personally thank you for signing up with WWTrek for our BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS: SAILING Signature Trek. As you prepare yourself physically, mentally, and spiritually for your adventure, rest assured that the WWTrek team is taking care of all the logistical details surrounding your trek. We want you to relax and focus on the important things in your life leading up to your trip. We have enclosed all of the information and tools necessary to begin preparing for your adventure. We have included preparation tips, medical information, money tips, a gear list, and historical and cultural information as well as a suggested reading list prepared by our friends at Traveler’s Bookcase. I can assure you that every member of the WWTrek team, including myself, is going to be with you every step of the way. As an adventurer myself, I understand the stresses and excitement that coincide with travel. Please feel free to contact me, personally, at any time regarding any questions you may have or if you simply want to touch base about your trek. Above all, my team and I truly believe that at the heart of our adventure is your experience. We know that each guest is different and has unique desires, so please, let us make this adventure what you’ve always dreamed of. Thanks!
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What We Offer At WWTrek, our international adventures are a first-class guest experience with personalized service every step of the way. Let our team at WWTrek focus on the details and plan a perfect adventure for you, whatever your particular needs may be. From pre-departure trip planning and preparation, day to day safety & logistics, lodging and meals, entertainment, and every detail in between, WWTrek has you covered each step of your journey. At the heart of our adventure is your experience; we know that every individual has different and unique desires that make their experience right for them, and we at WWTrek strive to exceed the expectations of our guests each and every day. Our itineraries are designed with the experience and comfort of our guests in mind. We have developed each day to balance exploration and relaxation with luxurious comforts throughout. Our relationship with the communities of the international destinations we trek has earned our team respect abroad. We want you to experience the same satisfying relationships we enjoy throughout your adventure. Our local support staff welcomes you and the opportunity to share their home and culture. Most adventures also offer the opportunity to give back to the communities that welcome us through our non-profit, Human Outreach Project.
Travel with us and you’ll see why our guests become our friends and our friends keep coming back.
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WWTrek Signature Adventures Our SIGNATURE TREKS offer you an expertly pre-planned itinerary designed to let you experience the best adventure a particular destination has to offer. Scheduled dates and departures for these adventures have already been planned to optimize your experience, taking into consideration seasonal weather and peak tourist season. The trek is guided by a WWTrek ambassador who is supported by a highly trained local staff. These treks have mixed groups of adventurers and are a great way to experience high-end service in an exciting group atmosphere while making lifelong friends along the way.
WWTrek Custom Adventures for Special Interest Groups Our CUSTOM TREKS are all about you and your specific individual or group needs. Whether you choose to charter and customize any of our international Signature Treks or design your own adventure from scratch, our team at WWTrek is here to meet your adventure travel needs. Our local experts will take your small group of friends, large group of co-workers, or just yourself, on a custom adventure on dates of your choosing. We will arrange a 100% privately guided adventure for you so that you can enjoy the WWTrek experience on your own, in your own way.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS YOUR CARIBBEAN EXPERIENCE | 9-18
TRIP OVERVIEW 10
DAY TO DAY ITINERARY 11
SAILING DESTINATIONS 12-13
ACCOMMODATIONS AND TRANSPORTATION 14
COMMUNICATION 15 FOOD 16-17
AREA QUICK FACTS 18
PREPARING FOR THE BVI | 19-30
TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS 20
INSURANCE 21
MONEY TIPS 22-24
GEAR 25-26
COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS 27-28
SUGGESTED READING 29
MEDICAL AND HEALTH | 30-36
A NOTE FROM OUR MEDICAL ADVISOR 31-33
JET LAG TIPS 34-35
HUMAN OUTREACH PROJECT | 36-39 NOTES | 40-45
PRE-DEPARTURE CHECKLIST 41
IMPORTANT AND PERSONAL INFORMATION 42
TERMS AND CONDITIONS 43 NOTES 44 WWTREK LEADERS 45
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“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.” – Mark Twain
TRIP OVERVIEW Few things compare to the sun on your face and the wind in your hair as you sail across the crystal blue Caribbean Sea. On this adventure, we will embark on an unforgettable journey aboard our 55-foot private sailboat. You will have the opportunity to become part of the crew and hone your sailing skills, or simply relax aboard the craft and take in the gorgeous scenery. Traveling through the exotic islands by day, and mooring under the stars at night, this trip offers a multitude of options. Snorkeling and island hopping are accentuated by the calming rhythm of the ocean as we experience the natural beauty of the Caribbean.
THE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS
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DAY TO DAY ITINERARY Date: ______________________________
DAY 1) Trellis Bay to Cooper Island
Date: ______________________________
DAY 2) Cooper Island to Virgin Gorda
Date: _______________________________
DAY 3) Virgin Gorda - The Baths, The North Sound
Date: ______________________________
DAY 4) The North Sound to Marina Cay
Date: ______________________________
DAY 5) Marina Cay to Cane Garden Bay/Tortola
Date: ______________________________
DAY 6) Cane Garden Bay to Great Harbour
Date: ______________________________
DAY 7) Great Harbour to Norman Island
DAY 8) Norman Island to Trellis Bay/ International Departures
Date: ______________________________
Note: This itinerary is included as a guideline for our adventure. Particular destinations may change from day to day as our schedule will be flexible to allow for necessary logistical changes, delays due to weather, sailing conditions, and other factors beyond our control. We will set our course each day as we awake and enjoy breakfast on the boat, and then begin sailing to our next destination. We thank you for your flexibility!
“We clear the harbor and the wind catches her sails and my beautiful ship leans over ever so gracefully, and her elegant bow cuts cleanly into the increasing chop of the waves. I take a deep breath and my chest expands and my heart starts thumping so strongly I fear the others might see it beat through the cloth of my jacket. I face the wind and my lips peel back from my teeth in a grin of pure joy.” ― L.A. Meyer, Under the Jolly Roger: Being an Account of the Further Nautical Adventures of Jacky Faber
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SAILING DESTINATIONS Tortola Tortola is the largest and most populated of the British Virgin Islands. Europeans began making their mark in Tortola history after 1492 when Christopher Columbus spotted what are now called the British and US Virgin Islands and named them after the 13,000 virgins of the 5th-century martyr St. Ursula. The Spanish made a few attempts to settle the area, but pirates such as Blackbeard and Captain Kidd were the first permanent inhabitants of the island. Virgin Gorda Virgin Gorda is the third-largest (after Tortola and Anegada) and second most populous of the British Virgin Islands (BVI). Christopher Columbus is said to have named the island “The Fat Virgin”, because the island’s profile on the horizon looks like a fat woman lying on her side. An unusual geologic formation known as “The Baths” located on the southern end of the island makes Virgin Gorda one of the BVI’s major tourist destinations. At The Baths, the beach shows evidence of the island’s volcanic origins, as huge granite boulders lie in piles on the beach, forming scenic grottoes that are open to the sea. Anegada Anegada is the only inhabited British Virgin Island formed from coral and limestone, rather than being of volcanic origin. While the other islands are mountainous, Anegada is flat and low, earning it the name which translates as “the drowned land.” Striking coral reefs surround the island, including the Eastern Caribbean’s third largest continuous reef, Horseshoe Reef. Norman Norman Island is located at the southern tip of the archipelago. Norman is rich in legends of pirate booty being stowed upon the island, and is said to have inspired Robert Louis Stevenson’s Treasure Island. Today it has no permanent inhabitants (other than wild goats), but there is a restaurant and bar named “Pirates” located in the Bight, which is a large harbour offering one of the most protected anchorages in the area.
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Jost Van Dyke This island’s community has historically subsisted on small scale fishing and agriculture, as well as sugar and rum production. The most frequent destination is Great Harbour. The beach strip around the harbour is lined with small bars and restaurants. Located in nearby White Bay is the famous Soggy Dollar Bar, where it is a common practice for boaters to anchor off the beach, swim to shore, and pay for their drinks with wet money. Cooper Cooper Island is one of the smallest in the archipelago. It has a protected anchorage, a white sand beach, a resort and restaurant. It is a superb snorkeling location with an interesting shoreline for kayaking and exploring. The island lies adjacent to “wreck alley”, a popular wreck diving site where a number of vessels have been deliberately sunk as dive sites. A local dive store near the beach club rents tanks to certified scuba divers. Peter Island Peter Island is the largest private island in the BVI. It is about 5.2 miles south-west from Road Harbour (Road Town), Tortola. The island was named after Pieter Adriensen (nicknamed “The Commander”) who was the brother of Abraham Adriensen, Patron of Tortola under the Dutch West India Company in the early 17th century. Pieter Adriensen and Joost van Dyk built a fort and slave pens at Great Harbour on Peter Island to facilitate privateering and the nascent trade in slaves from Angola. The island is predominately undeveloped but contains hiking and biking trails on which to discover the tropical flora and fauna indigenous to Peter Island. The beaches face the Atlantic Ocean, the Caribbean Sea, and the Sir Francis Drake Channel. The island’s biggest beach is Deadman’s Bay, a mile-long crescent beach shaded by palm trees with a section open to visitors.
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ACCOMMODATIONS TRANSPORTATION Accommodations All of your accommodation will be provided for you throughout your adventure as a standard part of your trek. As per the nature of a sailing trip, we will be staying on the yacht. Our yacht will be a Moorings 50:5, built by Beneateau. This sleek and spacious boat offers a coachroof, long side windows, 4 main cabins, a large salon, port side galley, with plenty of space to move about on deck. Complete with air conditioner and generator, this boat offers us plenty of contemporary comforts while sailing in private luxury.
In-Country Transportation From arrival to departure, your in-country transportation will be taken care of by WWTrek. We have arranged safe, comfortable transportation for our on land excursions as well as chartered a luxurious, private yacht for our sailing adventure.
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COMMUNICATIONS You will have the opportunity to communicate with your family and friends throughout your sailing adventure. However, your ability to communicate will be limited at times. We suggest that you take a few simple steps to ease communication efforts while travelling among the islands. The rest of the time, leave your electronic leashes behind and enjoy your sailing adventure!
Electricity: The yacht is equipped with a generator. You will have the opportunity to charge your devices while on the boat. We suggest bringing an all-in-one type power adapter, as they are small and work in all countries.
Internet: The yacht is not equipped with internet capabilities. There are WIFI hot spots and internet cafes at some of the marinas and towns. On-board WIFI is available for an additional fee.
International Phone Calls: If you plan to bring a cell phone, you will need to discuss an international plan with your cell provider in the US. You will have variable cell reception throughout your adventure. There is some communication between the British Virgin Islands and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Email: While at the marinas and towns you will have access to internet either through WIFI hot spots, internet cafes, or paid on-board WIFI. We advise that you create a web-serviced email account such as Gmail, Yahoo, or Hotmail for easy access from any computer.
Skype: Our recommended method of communication is using Skype. It is a cost effective way to keep in touch. You can set up an account and prepay before you depart. You can call computer-tocomputer (which is free) or computerto-phone. Video-chat and phone call capabilities are normally available at internet cafes.
SPOT and GPS: Satellite supported locating type devices should work with no problems.
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FOOD We will alternate between enjoying our meals on board and dining onshore. Dean and Alison will be your chefs for meals enjoyed on board the yacht.
Each morning we will enjoy breakfast aboard the yacht. We will also enjoy lunch aboard the yacht as we sail.For dinner, we will sample local food ashore. When dining ashore, we will have many options, as restaurants are as plentiful and varied in the BVI as the territory’s balmy beaches. “Continental fare” here is often imbued with a Caribbean flavor. Traditional food tends to be spicy and hearty. Local farmers grow fruits and vegetables along with the rearing of animals. Their goods are sold in local open-air markets, while supermarkets tend to carry mostly imported foods. There are a number of upscale restaurants, serving a combination of North American dishes with tropical twists as well as local cuisine. Because of inter-Caribbean migration, many foods from other Caribbean countries have been adopted into the Virgin Islands culinary culture.
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Water To avoid illness, it is best to stick to drinking bottled water while you are on vacation. Bottled or purified water will be available to you while on the boat and at any restaurant we visit. Avoid tap or well water, as well as ice made from tap or well water.
Vegan / Vegetarian / Gluten Free Diets We can accommodate any dietary needs you may have. Please let us know of any allergies, intolerances, or sensitivities you have prior to your departure and we will be happy to make arrangements for you. Feel free to contact us if you have any questions or are unsure. In Turkey, it’s generally very easy to accommodate just about any special dietary need!
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AREA QUICK FACTS Capital: Road Town Currency: US Dollar Government: The British Virgin Islands are an internally self-governing overseas territory of the United Kingdom. Population: 32,000 Official language: English Area: 59 square miles Religion: 84% Christian, 2% Hindu, 1% Islam, 23% other Major industries: tourism, financial services, livestock raising, export of rum, fresh fish, fruits, animals; gravel, and sand
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“hark, now hear the sailors cry, smell the sea, and feel the sky let your soul & spirit fly, into the mystic...” ― Van Morrison
PREPARING FOR THE
BRITISH VIRGIN
ISLANDS
TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS The flight route will be from the U.S. to Luis MuĂąoz Marin INTL Airport (SJU) in Puerto RIco, and then on to Terrance B Lettsome INTL Airport (EIS), Beef Island, Tortola. There are many flight options to choose from. We highly recommend that you use a travel agent. The benefit of using a travel agent is that you do not have to spend your valuable time researching confusing flight plans, the travel agent will find the best flight connections for you. Though third-party travel websites are convenient, they are not recommended, due to instability in the itineraries.
We recommend that you protect your flight with travel insurance and a refundable ticket. We recommend contacting Brian Mei at Eastern Travel. (see below)
U.S. Puerto Rico The B.V.I.
Eastern Travel | Brian Mei | (888) 682-7035 brian@easterntravel.com | http://www.easterntravel.com Park City Travel | Barbara Wallack | (800) 459-8071 pcutravel@aol.com | http://www.pcutravel.com
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INSURANCE We recommend you purchase travel insurance to cover unexpected trip interruptions, cancellations, lost baggage, emergency evacuation or rescue.
We recommend: • Travel insurance for trip interruptions/cancellations/lost bags: www.TravelGuard.com • World Wide Emergency evacuation and rescue insurance: www.GlobalRescue.com
* CARRY YOUR TRAVEL INSURANCE INFORMATION WITH YOU AT ALL TIMES. Find out in advance if your insurance provider makes payments directly to providers or reimburses you later for overseas health expenditures. Some policies require you to call a center in your home country for immediate assessment of the problem. Not all policies will cover ambulance or transport of patients to a better medical facility, to a medical evacuation location, or to a hospital in a major city, which may be the only way to get medical attention in a serious emergency.
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MONEY TIPS SEPARATE Do not put your money with your passport since you may have to show it when you do not want to show your money. Money belts come in handy for this reason.
3 DAY WALLET Take a small amount of money for your pocket and keep the rest in a safe place.
COUNT YOUR CHANGE Many people do not count their change and get shorted regularly when they travel.
PHOTOCOPY Photocopy or scan the front and back of your credit cards and passport and keep them in a separate place. If either of them get lost or stolen you will have all of the information necessary to quickly call and report it.
LOCK BOXES Use the lock boxes in your room and carry a small amount of money outside the hotel. The lock boxes are a safe place for anything valuable.
CHECK FEES If you use a credit card, check the fees associated with overseas charges. Some places charge as much as 10% to run a card from overseas.
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POCKET CHANGE Keep a small amount of change in your pocket. A quick tip for some help is much easier if you have coins or small bills in your pocket rather than a large bill.
Money Belt / Leg Cache Money belts and leg caches keep your valuables out of sight and out of reach of pickpockets. Leg or arm wallets are handy for cash and credit cards. We like the leg cache, as it is comfortable to wear, well hidden under your pant-leg, and easy to access under a table.
Travelers’ Cheques American Express travelers’ cheques are generally accepted in the British Virgin Islands.
ATM’s ATM’s are available on the larger islands of Tortola and Virgin Gorda. Plan ahead for the days when we will be visiting smaller islands where ATM’s are not available.
Credit Cards Credit cards are widely accepted throughout the islands. Bear in mind that there is a nominal fee for every overseas credit card transaction.
Cash We recommend using cash exclusively during your trip as it is the easiest and most widely accepted.
Currencies The official currency in the British Virgin Islands is the US Dollar.
How much money should I budget for extra expenses? Typically, our guests spend about $1,000 for various personal expenses and souvenirs.
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Gratuities As in many parts of the world, tipping is a symbol of a job well done. In addition to recognizing service people such as taxi drivers, restaurant and hotel personnel, we also acknowledge our staff with a tip. You should plan to tip any service person that helps you, 10% for taxi drivers and restaurant staff is usually in order. Check to see that a tip is not already included in the bill. Remember, if tipping in US dollars, to calculate the exchange rate; be careful not to tip too much.
Sailing Staff: At the end of your adventure you will have the opportunity to tip your Captain and crew.
*As you know tipping is your option and a reflection of the quality of the service you receive.
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PACKING LIST Less is more, especially when you are sailing! Space on a yacht is somewhat limited so packing light will make for a more comfortable trip. We created a suggested packing list for your trip. Please feel free to adjust it to suit your specific needs, keeping in mind to pack light!
Traveling ¨¨Large duffel bag: this should be a poly water-resistant duffel.
A duffel is easeier to store on the yacht
compared to a hardshell piece of luggage.
¨¨Small daypack or purse for excursions off of the boat. ¨¨Travel locks: make sure you purchase TSA approved travel locks. ¨¨Toiletry bag: include, soap, toothbrush, hand sanitizer, personal toiletries. ¨¨Electrical adapter: all in one travel adapter fit for any country. Clothing – BVI is Casual ¨¨Travel and casual clothes: you will need street / casual clothes for air travel and evenings. ¨¨Shorts/Skirts (quick dry material). ¨¨Pants ¨¨Tshirts/tank tops ¨¨Long-sleeve fleece/sweater/ puffy sweater for chilly nights. ¨¨Light rain jacket ¨¨Bathing suits/trunks: several day supply. Footwear ¨¨Light trekking shoes / running shoes: 1 pair for casual wear or sightseeing. ¨¨Boat Shoes ¨¨Socks ¨¨Water and deck sandals/shoes: Tevas, flip flops, Chacos, or Crocs. Headwear ¨¨Sun hat or ball cap ¨¨Bandana / Buff ¨¨Headlamp ¨¨Sun Glasses: bring 2 pairs and straps.
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Personal Equipment ¨¨Beach Towel ¨¨Fishing Poles, Paddle Boards ¨¨Refillable water bottle ¨¨Camera ¨¨Light weight entertainment: paperback book, Ereader, writing tab, playing cards, music player. ¨¨Music player to use on board First Aid: Drugs and Medications ¨¨Small personal first aid kit: Band aids, Aspirin, Blister kit, tweezers, safety pins, pocket knife, gauze, scissors. ¨¨Sunscreen and Lipscreen ¨¨Hand sanitizer and Insect repellent ¨¨Dramamine, Stugeron or Bonine/Antivert for motion sickness. ¨¨Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin): 200mg tablets for altitude headaches, sprains, aches, etc. ¨¨Any personal medications. Our Favorite Gear Over the years we have experimented with a variety of different brands and we are happy to pass along our knowledge and expertise to you. We will be emailing you a more specific gear list with direct links to products we like. Please feel free, as always, to ask us any gear related question you may have!
www.thenorthface.com
www.scarpa.com
www.blackdiamondequipment.com
www.honeystinger.com
www.backcountry.com
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www.kuhl.com
COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS What is included in the cost of the trip? WWTrek provides all in-country transportation, accommodations as double occupancy rooms, group breakfast and lunch, guides, drivers, park fees, and permits applicable to the scheduled itinerary of the trip.
What is NOT included in the cost of the trip? Expenses you are responsible for are: international round-trip airfare, any travel expenses outside the listed itinerary, bottled or alcoholic beverages, individual meals, excess baggage fees, personal gear, international vaccinations, optional single room supplement, tips and gratuities, lodge services, communication expenses, and charges incurred as a result of delays beyond the control of WWTrek. Beverage provisions available.
What happens if I become ill or injured? If you become ill or injured during your sailing adventure, we will take the necessary steps to provide you with adequate medical care without jeopardizing the health or safety of the other individuals on board. Our guides are medically trained to recognize the seriousness of health related issues and will provide our guests with the best care possible to ensure the safety and comfort of our guests.
What is the protocol for taking pictures? You will have many opportunities to take photos of your adventure and we encourage you to do so. However, in an effort to be polite and not offend the local people, it is considered a common courtesy to ask before taking a picture. Be particularly sensitive when photographing religious ceremonies or older people.
Can I wash my clothes? You can wash your clothes by hand while you are on the boat. We suggest bringing a small amount of powdered, biodegradable laundry soap.
How should I dress? The Caribbean is casual. While we are on the boat, quick dry, comfortable clothing is best. Be prepared for rain at times and keep in mind to pack light.
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Is BVI safe? The BVI has much lower incidence of crime than many other Caribbean areas, and wandering about alone, even at night, is not considered particularly high risk. However, as with all foreign travel, tourists should use good judgment and avoid certain areas. Don’t be too showy with expensive items and always lock your room and baggage.
What sort of documentation will I need? You will need a passport valid for more than 6 months after your trip. Make 2 copies of your passport and leave one at home and bring the other with you in case of an emergency. Visitors that are residents of certain countries require a visa in order to enter the BVI. If in doubt about the necessity of a visa; contact the nearest BVI Tourist Board Office, the nearest British Embassy, or contact the Chief Immigration Department, BVI Government at Tel: (284) 4943471 or 468-3701 ext. 4700. - See more at: http://www.bvitourism.com/entry-requirements#sthash.JoOd7k5b.dpuf Depending on your travel plans, you may also need to show your WHO (World Health Organization) immunization card if you have ever been or are traveling through any countries that require a yellow fever vaccination.
What should I do if I plan to arrive early or depart late from BVI? If you plan to spend extra time in BVI outside of your scheduled trip with WWTrek, please let us know. We can help make reservations for hotels and transportation as well as additional excursions during your extra days in BVI. Ask us for ideas– we have a lot of fun suggestions!
Look for the logo signboard or your name when you exit customs.
Who will pick me up from the airport? After you collect your baggage and clear customs; a WWTrek representative will be outside waiting for you! Please look for the WWTrek logo signboard or your name when you exit customs.
How do I handle specific needs or request I have for my trip? There are many options for additional service and special needs accommodations. Please feel free to ask us any questions you may have or let us know what we can do for you. We want to make sure you are comfortable throughout your trek. The WWTrek team is here to help you in any way we can!
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SUGGESTED READING Thanks to our friends at Traveler’s Bookcase for putting this exclusive list together for us! Contact Traveler’s Bookcase with any literature queries at: Natalie Compagno / Greg Freitas 8375 West Third Street, Los Angeles, Ca. 90048 (323) 655-0575 -- www.travelersbookcase.com
Guidebooks Lonely Planet Regional Guide to the US and British Virgin Islands
The Best of the British Virgin Islands: An indispensable guide for visitors. Brimming with insider hints and local information, this travel guide tracks hotels, resorts, and villas on each of the inhabited British Virgin Islands, along with the best restaurants, coffee houses, and beachside bars. The most spectacular scenic drives, deserted beaches, hidden snorkeling spots, and historic ruins—and the best locales for live, local music—are also revealed.
Non-Fiction Slavery, Smallholding and Tourism Michael O’Neal’s book on British Virgin Islands social history Slavery, Smallholding and Tourism: Social Transformations in the British Virgin Islands
Fiction On Stranger Tides The work of fiction by Tim Powers that inspired The Pirates of the Caribbean series.
Treasure Island Robert Louis Stevenson’s experiences in the Virgin Islands inspired this iconic tale.
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HEALTH
AND MEDICAL
I TREK along serenely, with my eyes, my shoes my rage, forgetting everything.
A NOTE FROM OUR MEDICAL ADVISOR Excited for your adventure with WWTrek? Of course you are! To help you make the most of it, I am providing some basic health information, including tips on maintaining wellness. Above all, you should ensure that you are capable of performing the physical activity planned for your trip; if you have chronic medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes, hypertension, or cardiovascular disease, clearance for participation by your doctor is a must. As you look over the list below, you’ll see a number of recommended medications and vaccinations. While most are relatively simple to obtain from your primary care physician some may require a visit to your local travel medicine clinic. Unsure where to go? The American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene provides an online list of private physicians and clinics who offer pre-travel consultative services. Alternatively, you can search the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for clinics in your area that provide yellow fever vaccination. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or medical concerns surrounding trekking and travel. I am happy to help. Here’s to a safe and healthy voyage!
Phillip Levy, MD, MPH Associate Professor of Emergency Medicine, Wayne State University Medical Advisor, World Wide Trekking
plevy@med.wayne.edu
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Staying Healthy While the WWTrek team of guides will be equipped to handle medical emergencies, the old adage, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” always rings true. With that in mind, following is a list of tips to stay healthy as well as a list of recommended prophylaxis (preventative medicines).
Minimizing your Exposure to Potential Illness ³³Avoid eating potentially contaminated foods. ³³Don’t buy food from street vendors! ³³Approach salads with caution, especially if at a “locals” restaurant. ³³Stay away from pre-peeled or sliced fruit – try to eat only those fruits with a “natural” wrapper. ³³Avoid consumption of potentially contaminated water. ³³Use bottled water to brush your teeth. ³³Don’t drink tap or unfiltered water at restaurants and ask for your drinks to be served without ice. ³³Don’t swish or swallow shower water. ³³Let your trip leader know immediately if you experience any concerning symptoms, especially fever or headache!
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Vaccines | Preventative Medicines Condition
Medication(s)
Altitude sickness
Diamox or Ginko Biloba; Motrin
Hepatitis A Hepatitis B
Havirax vaccine Hepatitis B vaccine
Influenza Measles, mumps, rubella
Influenza vaccine MMR vaccine
Tetanus and Diphtheria
DPT vaccine
Typhoid fever
Typhoid fever vaccine (oral)
Remedies Condition
Medication(s)
Acute fever illness
Tylenol or Motrin
Allergic reaction Contusion, sprain, fracture
Benadryl, Zantac, Prednisone; consider Epi-pen if prone to anaphylaxis Motrin; consider Vicodin or Norco as well
Diarrhea Dehydration Friction blister Insect bite Rash
Immodium and Cipro Oral rehydration salts, electrolyte drink tablets Second Skin, Mole Skin Benadryl and topical hydrocortisone Topical hydrocortisone
Skin or soft tissue infection Sunburn
Neosporin, Bactroban and Keflex Aloe Vera
Upper respiratory illness Urinary tract infection Vomiting
Zithromax; consider Albuterol inhaler if asthma prone Macrobid or Cipro Zofran, Phenergan, Compazine, Reglan
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JET LAG TIPS What is Jet Lag? In simple terms, jet lag is a disruption of your body’s internal clock, or circadian rhythm. This clock sets your sleeping and waking times. It is complex and sensitive.
Common Jet Lag Symptoms ³³Headache ³³Disorientation ³³Anxiety ³³Exhaustion ³³Indigestion ³³Dehydration ³³Impaired Coordination None of these are much fun, especially while traveling and trying to get the most out of your adventure. Without taking steps to avoid jet lag, your body will adjust to time zone changes at a rate of 1 hour per day. That means if you flew across seven time zones, it would take seven days to be rid of your jet lag symptoms. The best way to avoid jet lag is to be proactive when you prepare to depart, travel, and arrive in a far away place. Even if you are not crossing time zones while you travel, by following these simple tips you will arrive at your destination rested and ready for adventure!
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Before You Leave Home ³³Get plenty of sleep: NASA found that getting as much rest as possible beginning two days before your trip can significantly reduce jet lag symptoms.
³³Reduce your stress: Plan ahead and prepare for your trip so you’re not running around stressed out and getting ready at the last minute.
³³Exercise: Get regular exercise and keep up that routine just before you travel. ³³Hydrate: Drink plenty of water prior to your departure.
In flight ³³Arrive early at the airport: Not rushing to make your flight will reduce stress. ³³Change your watch: Begin to adjust to the new time zone and schedule by setting your watch to your destination’s time, eat and sleep accordingly.
³³Rest: Sleep as much as you can on the plane. ³³Travel Pillows: Use the pillow provided from the plane to support your lower back. Also bring an inflatable (packs small) pillow that wraps around your neck to stabilize your head for better rest
³³Noise Canceling Headphones / foam earplugs: You can’t control the noise level around you. ³³Wear comfortable clothing: Bring an extra warm layer so you can sleep better. ³³Drink plenty of water: The humidity on an airplane is around 2-3%. That’s like being in the desert! ³³Stretch frequently: Aisle seats are best if you’ll be getting up to stretch often. ³³Manage Caffeine / Alcohol Intake: Both caffeine and alcohol dehydrate you and will slow down your circadian rhythm, or internal clock.
³³Don’t take sleeping pills: Sleeping pills cause you to sleep without any body movement. This reduces circulation and increases the chance of blood clotting.
Arriving at your destination…Enjoy your trek! ³³Eat: Try to eat on the new schedule. ³³Drink: Continue to drink plenty of water. ³³Sleep: Sleep on the new schedule. If you are flying eastbound you often arrive in the morning, making it harder to stay up the entire day. Try to tough it out. If you sleep well on the plane you should be able to stay up until night time. If you need a nap, limit it to 45 minutes. If you are flying westbound, most schedules will have you arriving later in the day, making it easier to stay up until nighttime and sleep the entire night.
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Many of our World Wide Trekking members find that their association with HOP is one of the highlights of their travel experience.
HUMAN OUTREACH PROJECT
HUMAN OUTREACH PROJECT Part of our mission at WWTrek is to give back to the wonderful places we visit. The Human Outreach Project (HOP) is our way of giving back. HOP is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization funded by private donations. HOP collects, transports, and distributes medical, dental, clothing and school supplies to areas in need on every WWTrek trip. We encourage our members to take part in HOP on their trip; however, participation is not a mandatory part of the itinerary. Prior to your trip, HOP will collect donated supplies to be distributed by guests of WWTrek during your adventure. If you would like to participate in the collecting of supplies to be donated, please contact our office for a list of appropriate items.
Human Outreach Project World Wide Student Leadership Program: WWTrek hosts special treks focusing on student leadership and service projects with college-aged participants.
Nepal: HOP donates supplies to the Namche Dental Clinic, Himalayan Children’s Foundation, and to the education fund for Ang Pasang Sherpa’s 3 surviving children. (Dean’s friend who helped him summit Mount Everest in 2005 but was killed in an avalanche one month later.) Peru: HOP supports the Hogar Clinicia San Juan de Dios and the Casa Mantay with needed medical and educational supplies.
Tanzania Orphanage: Our largest project to date has been the construction of an orphanage in Africa. We are
proud to announce that the staff and children have now moved in to our Kilimanjaro Kids Community!
How to Help HOP • Make a tax-deductible contribution to HOP at www.HumanOutreachProject.org. • Join us on an adventure and experience the thrill of adventure travel and give back.
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Kilimanjaro Kids Community Although we are still in the construction phase of the Kilimanjaro Kids Community (KKC), our 4 acre orphanage officially opened in May of 2012. The orphanage currently cares for 12 children. With the help of two “mamas� (social workers), a grounds-keeper, a cook, and a guard, the children are provided three meals a day, housing, and an education. It is the goal of HOP to impact the lives of these children in such a manner that they will become successful, contributing members of their communities. The next phase of the Kilimanjaro Kids Community will include adding a shelter for dairy cows, chicken coop, more garden capabilities to provide food, and the addition of a separate girls dorm. We still need a lot of funding to make this next phase a reality, so all donations are very much appreciated!
HOP KILIMANJARO KIDS COMMUNITY
TANZANIA AFRICA
Completed:
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I dream of TREKKING into my old age.
NOTES
PRE-DEPARTURE CHECKLIST We are looking forward to trekking with you! If you have any questions regarding preparation for your trip or itinerary details, please contact me directly. I or someone from our WWTrek team would be happy to assist you.
¨¨Send the WWTrek office a copy of your flight itinerary. Email sarah@WWTrek.com. ¨¨Make two photocopies of your passport and other documents. Leave one with a contact person at home. ¨¨Have all personal medications and prescriptions secure in your carry-on. ¨¨Carry your passport and items that you need to show at customs separate from your money. ¨¨Carry-on hard to replace items when you fly: gear, prescriptions, camera. ¨¨If you have any questions about the trip please give me a call or send an email. Thank you for choosing World Wide Trekking! Thanks! Dean Cardinale
Dean@WWtrek.com 801-230-9089
PERSONAL CHECKLIST ¨¨___________________________________________________________________________________________ ¨¨___________________________________________________________________________________________ ¨¨___________________________________________________________________________________________ ¨¨___________________________________________________________________________________________ ¨¨___________________________________________________________________________________________ ¨¨___________________________________________________________________________________________ ¨¨___________________________________________________________________________________________ ¨¨___________________________________________________________________________________________ ¨¨___________________________________________________________________________________________ ¨¨___________________________________________________________________________________________ WORLD WIDE TREKKING
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IMPORTANT AND PERSONAL INFORMATION Name as on Passport: Passport Number:
Emergency Contact:
Travel agent contact info:
Flight Information:
Important Phone #’s:
Email Login and Password: Skype log in and password:
World Wide Trekking
7938 South 3500 East B-100 Cottonwood Heights, UT 84121 Tel: 801.230.9089 Fax: 801.943.0264 info@wwtrek.com
WWTrek.com
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WWTREK TERMS AND CONDITIONS Air Transportation: International Airfares are not included in program pricing. WWTrek does have travel agent recommendations that can help you with all of your pre-trek travel arrangements. Please ask us for a list of travel agents as well as your best flight route options and your preferred destination arrival flight. Itineraries: Accommodations including lodging, domestic flights, trains, vehicles and sightseeing are subject to change at anytime due to unforeseen circumstances or circumstances beyond World Wide Trekking’s control. Every effort will be made to operate itineraries as planned, but alterations may occur after final itinerary has been issued. We greatly appreciate your flexibility. Special Requests: Special requests such as connecting or adjacent rooms, bedding requests or dietary needs should be advised at time of booking. We will make every effort to accommodate your special request. Early Arrival: Many guests prefer to arrive before the scheduled itinerary. We can help make early arrival arrangements if necessary. Additional charges for early arrival transportation, lodging, meals and activities will apply. Arrival & Check-in: We will suggest an exact flight arrival for many of our group trek destinations. Airport transportation will be provided. Many of our hotels allow check in to take place in the mid-afternoon. Should you wish to have a guaranteed room ready or early arrival arrangements, we will make every effort to accommodate your request. Please ask WWTrek for details and prices. Rooms: All prices are quoted on double room occupancy. Single room supplements are available. Please ask WWTrek for details and prices. Baggage: WWTrek provides handling of two pieces of luggage per person. Weight restrictions on some routes, internal / domestic flights may apply. We can also arrange baggage storage during most trips. More detailed information will be in your trek welcome packet. Photography during Trek: WWTrek reserves the right to take photographs during your travel to be used for promotional purposes. Program members who prefer that their images not be used are asked to identify themselves at the beginning of their trip. Cancellation: Trip Deposits are non-refundable. Cancellation 90 days prior to departure will be refunded in full. Cancellation 89 - 50 days prior to departure will be charged 50% of the price. Cancellation 49 days or less to time of departure will be charged 100% of the price. WWTrek recommends that you purchase a travel insurance policy to cover cancellation due to unforeseen circumstances. Please ask WWTrek if you have any questions.
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NOTES
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WWTREK LEADERS DEAN CARDINALE
FOUNDER | BOAT CAPTAIN | LEAD GUIDE
US Sailing Captain
Dean Cardinale is the owner of World Wide Certified Level III Trekking and the President and Founder of the Human Outreach Project. Dean has climbed Contact: DEAN and led guided expeditions in North and Central Phone: 801.230.9089 America, Africa, Europe, South America and the Himalayas. He is the President of Wasatch Email: dean@wwtrek.com Backcountry Rescue group, the US representative to the International Commission of Alpine Rescue (IKAR), an avalanche instructor with the American Avalanche Association and avalanche forecaster for Snowbird Ski Resort. Dean is currently working on a seven summits bid, summiting Mt Everest in 2005. Dean has taught people of all ages and professions, and is well known for his professional ethics and conduct evident in all of his pursuits. Dean has a longstanding record of leadership, program development, and community service.
ALISON CARDINALE BOAT CAPTAIN | GUIDE
Alison Cardinale is a lifelong adventurer, experienced pilot, and boat captain. A Captain for United ExpressJet, Alison is a certified flight instructor and airline transport pilot, with over 4500 hours of flight time typed in the Embraer regional jet. She has facilitated humanitarian efforts in Africa, Peru, and is a fundamental asset to HOP’s Student Leadership Program. When not flying or traveling with HOP, Alison enjoys hiking, reading and skiing.
US Sailing Captain Certified Level III Contact: ALISON Phone: 801.560.2489 Email: alison@wwtrek.com
We are looking forward to our upcoming adventure. Please feel free to contact us at anytime if you have any questions or concerns regarding your trip.
www.WWTrek.com www.HumanOutreachProject.org WORLD WIDE TREKKING
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