FAQ


What types of documents are needed to travel?
When traveling internationally, all U.S. citizens are required to have a valid passport. Non-U.S. citizens should contact their appropriate consulate or office for specific documentation requirements. If traveling within the United States, travelers will need to provide a valid government issued photo ID. If you do not have a valid passport, we highly recommend that you apply now as refunds cannot be given if you are unable to travel due to lack of documentation. We strongly recommend visiting www.travel.state.gov/travel for the most current travel documentation requirements.
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How will I choose my roommates?
The prices quoted for our trips are based on quad-occupancy. If there are less than 4 travelers in a room, an additional occupancy fee will apply. Soon after the final payment date, a rooming form will be available. All travelers will use this form to select their roommates for the trip.
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What happens if I get sick or hurt?
IST Events provides a basic travel protection plan that covers sickness and accidents on most of our trips. Please refer to the terms and conditions of your specific trip for details. However, even if your trip does have a travel protection plan, most plans do not include prescription drug coverage. Additionally we recommend that travelers purchase a low cost optional travel protection plan which we offer to cover lost luggage, trip cancellation/interruption, medical cancellation, and more.
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When are the trip dates finalized?
If the trips dates are not listed on the brochure, departure dates will be finalized after the final payment date and once the final size of your group has been determined. Travelers will be notified of travel dates approximately 30 days prior to departure.
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What is IST Events destination staff responsible for?
Upon arrival at the destination airport, or upon meeting at the motorcoach pickup site, travelers will be greeted by trained IST Events destination staff to accompany them to their destination. Our destination staff will host a mandatory welcome orientation where travelers can pick up their IST Events wristbands and hear important information about safety, exchange rates, and event schedules. Location points will be assigned so that travelers will always know where to find IST Events staff during their trip, and additional contact information will be distributed. While IST Events destination staff members are not chaperones, they are available 24 hours a day to assist our travelers with any problems that may arise. Our destination staff members have the experience and know-how to handle just about any situation to ensure every traveler gets the most out of their travel experience.
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Why are we asked to sign up so early?
Signing up early reserves your space, gives you priority on hotel options, and provides you with the lowest pricing available. Additionally, the earlier you sign up, the more time you have to make payments on your trip making the final balance easier to manage.
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What rules does IST Events have?
We expect all of our travelers to behave as civilized, respectful adults, and if a particular traveler or group cannot handle themselves appropriately, they will be removed from our program at their own expense. IST Events requires that all travelers abide by the laws of the state/host country of our trips. Rules and regulations specific to a particular destination and/or hotel are explained during the mandatory welcome orientation onsite.
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What if I find a better price for the same package?
At IST Events we do not offer rock-bottom pricing. We do our best to keep our prices low but at the same time want to provide our travelers with a high quality travel experience. Our on-site destination staff is second to none and we partner with high-quality name-brand hotels, airlines, and motorcoach tour providers. Travel with IST Events and you're traveling with the best. Based on over 30 years experience in the travel industry, we can safely say that when you travel with a discount tour operator, you most often get what you pay for. Even so, if you find a lower price for the same package, please submit the package cost and travel details in writing and we'll do our best to meet or beat our competitor's price.
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Are there any other fees I should know about?
Current departure taxes and fees, as well as hotel security deposits, are listed on our travel brochures, if applicable. Please review your pricing sheet for details. All pricing is based on quad-occupancy and you are responsible for finding your own roommates. Should one of your roommates drop out of the trip, you are still responsible for finding a replacement or paying the occupancy fee.
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Are there any meals or events included in the package?
If you received a meal plan or event package as an early sign-up incentive, then they will appear on your account at no cost. In addition, at many destination, IST Events event and meal packages can be purchased at an additional cost upon arrival at your destination. Package information and inclusions will be provided to you prior to departure.
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How do I obtain my travel documents?
Approximately 2-3 weeks prior to departure, your travel documents will be sent to you as long as your account is paid in full, including any occupancy fees. Your itinerary will also post on your online account as soon as it becomes available.
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