Youth Travel FAQs from Our Student Travel Experts

When are our deposits due?

We recommend that you send in your initial deposit as soon as your trip has been approved. This deposit will allow us to secure your hotel and turn your group from a tentative status to definite….so, the earlier the better. If an immediate deposit is not feasible, we want you to know that we understand the logistics of collecting deposits can be a daunting task, which is why we will gladly work with you in creating a payment schedule that you are comfortable with and outline it in the agreement section of your trip packet.

Is transportation cost included in the package price?

Transportation is not included in our advertised packages.  However, Group Travel Network can provide you with competitive motorcoach, commercial and/or charter airline rates as well as train quotes. You may also choose to coordinate your own roundtrip transportation.

When booking your own motorcoach keep in mind that these vehicles are responsible for providing all transportation services during your adventure. Hotel reservations and payment for bus driver rooms must be made through our office. Drivers are not entitled to receive complimentary rooms, meals or attraction tickets.

Make sure that your motorcoach company has a complete and updated itinerary, as there are many restrictions on driver hours.

What information do I need to have before I start planning my trip?

The most important information you should have is to BE CERTAIN that you are traveling with a reputable and respected agency such as Group Travel Network, Inc.

You should require the agency to supply you with a contract that explains everything included in your tour and the payment deadlines. Along with this you should be supplied with flight manifest forms, hotel rooming list forms, baggage forms, etc. and dates when these items are due.

Group Travel Network, Inc. leaves no stone unturned. We supply all of these necessary items. We want to make sure there is no misunderstanding between our family of professionals and you or your representative.

Why should I book my trip through an agency?

Every group should book through an agency because agencies can alleviate the headaches that come along with group travel. Especially in the Student Travel market, teachers have more important things to do and can let the experts handle the arrangements.

What is your complimentary policy, and, how does it work?

If your agreement states "One (1) complimentary package for every 15 paid participants - based on the double package rate" that means that for every 15 people that pay, you will receive one package (not room) at the double package price. (If you have 50 people in your party, three people will travel free). This cost will be deducted from your final invoice; therefore, it is not necessary to notify us who is receiving this package.  Everyone must be on your rooming list including the free people.

What is the difference between a tour company such as Group Travel Network and a festival company?

A Tour Company is responsible for putting together the different components that would make the actual Tour, such as hotel, meals, attractions, transportation, points of interest and sightseeing.

A festival company is responsible for producing a particular event. Specifically with student musicians, the Festival Company would secure the festival site, judges and generally an awards venue.

When do you need my group’s rooming list?

We understand that student groups must be blocked in a very specific manor for many different reasons, which is why we request that you supply us with your rooming list as early as possible.  The earlier you can supply a complete rooming list, the more opportunity the hotel selected will have to accommodate your lodging request(s).

Group Travel Network has over 10 years experience working with many hotels in each of the destinations we service, we are confident in the ability that the properties we use have in providing your group with the amenities necessary to make your experience enjoyable.

Can we customize our package?

Absolutely!  Group Travel Network specializes in creating unique travel experiences that are tailored to the specific needs and budgets of your group.  You have the option to customize any advertised package by adding/deleting hotel room nights, attractions, meal functions and much more, or we can start from scratch and build the trip you envision for your unique group.