Frequently Asked Questions

Trip Specific Questions
Airline Tickets and Travel Schedules
Lodging and Meals While Traveling
Walking, Mobility, and Medical Devices
Health and Safety While Traveling
Transportation at the Destination
Other Frequently Asked Questions

Here are the most commonly asked questions regarding your trip.

How do I register for a pilgrimage?

Online enrollment is easy by using the QR code on the front of each brochure or by using the search button on our website to find the trip by the group leader’s name or by the destination you are interested in. If you want to register for a private trip, your group leader will provide you with a direct link. If you can’t find the trip link or want a paper registration, email us at tripinfo@select-intl.com or call us at 1-800-842-4842.

Can I pay by check?

Yes, issue the check to Select International Tours and mail it to:

Select International Tours 85 Park Ave. Flemington, NJ 08822

Can I enroll without a passport, or if my passport has expired?

Yes, but accurate passport info must be sent to us at least 100 days before departure, so it’s best to apply immediately. If the airline tickets are issued incorrectly because your provided registration info doesn’t match your actual passport data, requiring documents to be reissued, a $350.00 change fee will be assessed.

When is the deposit due?

At the time of registration.

When is the final payment due?

The due date is noted in the pricing section of the trip brochure. When you register online, you will receive a final payment reminder.

Is there a late payment fee?

$100 per person late payment fee will be assessed if payments are made after the final payment due date.

I have questions. Who do I contact?

Each group is managed by an experienced Account Manager whose name and email are on the front cover of the trip brochure.

Why should I buy Travel Protection?

Travel Insurance is the key to protecting your financial investment and enjoying a carefree trip. We recommend you buy the policy offered on our website or shop around, but never travel without insurance

What is the travel protection (Insurance) available on Select’s website?

For your convenience, we have partnered with Trawick International to offer two options, Basic Deluxe and Cancel For Any Reason. Trawick can be reached at 888-681-6272 for any insurance-related questions. Also, click the link in your registration for more details about travel protection.

What does “Land Only” mean?

A “Land Only” package includes the land trip from the first hotel until the last checkout. It does not include any flights. You may purchase your own flights on any airline you wish or use a Mileage program. Plan to be at the airport before our group flight arrival to join the group for the full-day itinerary.

What is a “single supplement” or “solo traveler” fee?

Hotels overseas charge additional fees for travelers who choose to be in a room by themselves.

Can you find me a roommate?

If you are traveling alone but are willing to share, we can usually connect you with another trip participant to help you avoid the solo supplement. Please note that the “solo traveler” fee will be on your invoice until a match is found.

What happens if my roommate cancels?

If another suitable roommate is not found by you or us, a “solo traveler” charge will be added to your account as you will have the benefit of a solo room. Check with your travel insurer, as your travel protection policy may allow you to recoup that additional cost.

What payment methods does Select accept?

We accept payments via check, Zelle, wire transfer, and most major credit cards. Please note that there is a credit card convenience fee of 4%.

What happens if I have to cancel my trip?

Be sure to read and understand the cancellation policy (see the terms and conditions on your trip brochure) before enrolling, as canceling has financial impacts. We strongly suggest protecting your investment with a Travel Protection policy. If you need to cancel, please notify your Account Manager in writing as soon as possible. They will help you with the process.

What happens if the trip is canceled due to extenuating circumstances?

If your trip has to be canceled due to extenuating circumstances, like a pandemic or war, that are outside Select International Tours’ control, all cancellation terms and conditions remain and apply. This is another reason to purchase Trip Protection.

How can I access my registration page after I register?

You will have access to an online trip portal that allows you to see your information, payments and amount due. The portal allows you to update information and communicate with your account manager. Save your confirmation email and bookmark your account for easy login access. If you lose your login, contact your Account Manager and they can assist you.

Airline Tickets and Travel Schedules

Can I choose my airline seat when registering for an air and land package?

We work with group airfares, which do not permit specific seat selection. You may try changing your seats at the airport or by calling the airline once you have your tickets about 3 weeks before departure.

Can I upgrade my flights to premium economy or business class?

Yes, email your request to your Account Manager. Upgrades are quoted starting at 120 days before departure.

Tickets must be purchased within 24 hours of the quote, as airfares and availability change frequently.

What if I need a specific seat?

It is best to choose the “Land Only” option and book your own flights. We will need your flight info emailed to us at least 30 days before departure.

Can I pay for my flights with points or miles?

We can’t accept points as payment. You can purchase your own flights and choose a Land Only option with us.

Is there a payment plan?

You must pay the deposit at the time of registration and the final balance by the due date. You may make as many payments toward the final balance as you like as long as the total balance is paid in full by the due date.

Can I choose to fly on an airline of my choice?

If you prefer a specific airline for your flights it’s best to buy your own air and book land only with us.

Lodging and Meals While Traveling

What class of hotels can I expect on my trip?

We generally use four-star, centrally located hotels with private bathrooms and hairdryers in the room.

How many people can a room accommodate?

Most hotels in Europe and Israel can accommodate two people comfortably. The third person may sleep in a rollaway bed. Adjoining rooms are usually available for large families or when traveling with kids.

What meals are included on the trip?

Our brochures indicate included meals at the end of each day. B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, and D=Dinner. Special meal=restaurant meal, which usually includes up to two glasses of wine, beer, or soda.

Are beverages included in meals?

Water is always included. Wine, beer, and soft drinks are not included unless specifically mentioned in the inclusions on the brochure but can be purchased at the meal.

I have dietary restrictions; can they be accommodated?

Yes. If you notify us in writing at least 60 days prior to departure, we will alert the airlines and ground teams of your needs. However, be vigilant and always ask when served a meal.

Can I bring my children?

On most other trips, the minimum age is eight due to the rigorous travel schedule. We offer specific family pilgrimages for which kids two and older can be registered. Children under 12 receive a $ 500 trip discount.

Walking, Mobility, and Medical Devices

How much walking will there be on my pilgrimage?

Most trips require 10,000 -12,000 steps throughout the day. Often, the streets are cobblestone or require walking uphill/ downhill. Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers are essential, as well as the ability to keep up with the group.

I have limited mobility; can I still join the trip?

In most cases, yes. Please call us at 1-800-842-4842 before registering to discuss the specifics of the trip you’re considering first.

Can I bring a wheelchair on pilgrimage?

Yes. However, you must be accompanied by someone who can assist you with the wheelchair while touring and boarding the bus. Please note that many destinations abroad do not have wheelchair access. Elevators overseas tend to be small.

Can I bring a walker on the trip?

Yes. Please be aware that you will need to move it on and off the bus and or travel with someone who can assist.

Will my CPAP machine work overseas?

Most countries we visit use 220v electric power, and a power plug may not be next to the bed. Distilled water is available upon request of at least 48 hours.

What happens if I cannot keep up with the group?

Unfortunately, you may need to miss some sites. Your Tour Manager can sometimes help arrange taxis for an additional charge payable by cash, on-site in local currency. We recommend you book smaller groups and slower-paced departures. Select 30 trips, and our cruises may be good options to consider.

Can I take a rest day, if needed?

Yes, provided the group is staying in a city for another day, you are welcome to stay back at the hotel. Be sure to notify your Tour Manager if you decide to do so.

Will there be free time on the pilgrimage?

Yes. However, our trips prioritize visiting sites listed in the itinerary. Generally, either a full free day or half a day is provided for you to explore on your own. Your itinerary will specify time at leisure, but this may be subject to change if circumstances on the ground change. Bus transportation to the hotel is not provided for the leisure time. Be sure to research things to do in each city online or through a good guidebook.

Health and Safety While Traveling

What happens if I get sick or hurt on the trip?

Notify the Tour Manager or your group leader immediately. If you must travel with the group and suspect you may have come down with a virus, please distance yourself as much as possible and wear a mask to slow the spread of your illness. The Tour Manager can help you find medical service if your illness or injury is more severe. Notify your travel insurer as soon as possible and save all receipts to substantiate your claim. American medical insurance is not accepted abroad, which is another reason to purchase Trip Protection. Be sure to pack all your medicine in your carry-on, as well as a COVID test, masks, and hand sanitizer.

Transportation at the Destination

Are restrooms available on the bus?

Generally, no. We aim to stop for restrooms about every two hours. Many restrooms abroad may require a fee for usage. Be sure to bring small change in local currency. Some buses may have bathrooms on board, but they cannot be emptied until the end of the trip, so they are strictly for emergency use.

Is water available on the bus?

Yes, with a nominal fee of approximately $1-2 per water bottle to be paid to the bus driver. Be sure to bring small change. We also recommend keeping hydrated on the trip by bringing LiquidIV.

Is WiFi available on the bus?

Most hotels and restaurants will have public WiFi, but WiFi on the buses, if available, is not generally reliable. We recommend you use your pilgrimage time to disconnect from technology and be present and in the moment. Many people use bus time to pray, reflect, enjoy the scenery, and listen to their guide or the group leader.

Are seats assigned on the bus?

Seats are not assigned. However, you will be assigned to a specific bus on multi-bus trips.