What to know before you go to.... Medjugorje

Thank you for booking with 206 Tours

Click here to learn more about the Apparations & to view Mass Schedules

How to Prepare for Your Pilgrimage:

Thank you for your desire and readiness to visit these places of grace and prayer. May the Almighty God, through the intercession of our Heavenly Mother, reward you for all the efforts you undertake to come! As we would like your trip to be as pleasant and helpful as possible. It is important to note that 206 Tours pilgrimages are packed full of spiritual activities and sightseeing.  We do not include much free time for recreation, such as shopping.  This is because our desire is to offer you the most comprehensive pilgrimage possible.  However, all tours/activities are optional, and if you feel you are unable to keep up with the pace of the tour, manage the terrain, or would like free time for your own interests, you are welcome to refrain from participating in any aspects of the program you desire (of course, no refund can be issued for any aspects of the the tour which you choose not to participate in). 

It is also important to note that the amount of walking is significant, and the terrain varies greatly through out our tours.  You will encounter hills, mountains, unpaved streets, cobblestone streets, etc.  Please prayerfully consider whether or not you are up to such physical activities prior to registering.  For this reason, we would like to offer you some recommendations, and we ask you sincerely to read them carefully.
 
A couple of weeks before your pilgrimage, one should begin preparing physically as well as spiritually.

1 - If not accustomed to physical activity begin walking "briskly" 1-2 times a day; build up to 2-3 miles with no
     discomfort.

2 - If possible attend daily mass or attempt to spend quiet time in church during lunch or after work.

3 - Pray for Jesus and His Blessed Mother to open your heart and mind to be responsive to new perspectives, ideas,
     their words laid on your heart, etc.

4 - Begin praying the rosary daily ( Learn How to Pray the Rosary ) or at least the Apostle's Creed, 7 Our Father's, 7
     Hail Mary's & 7 Glory Be's as Our Lady has requested; this takes about 5-7 minutes.

New Security Procedures:

• All liquids, gels and aerosols must be in three-ounce or smaller containers. Larger containers that are half-full or toothpaste tubes rolled up are not allowed. Each container must be three ounces or smaller.

• All liquids, gels and aerosols must be placed in a single, quart-size, zip-top, clear plastic bag. Gallon size bags or bags that are not zip-top such as fold-over sandwich bags are not allowed. Each traveler can use Only * one, quart-size, zip-top, clear plastic bag.

• Each traveler must remove their quart-sized plastic, zip-top bag from their carry-on and place it in a bin or on the conveyor belt for X-ray screening. X-raying separately will allow TSA security officers to more easily examine the declared items.

• Visit the TSA (Transportation Security Administration) for complete details.
  

General Info About Your Documents, Flights, Arrival & Travel:

Final Documents: 
206 Tours will ship your final documents to the address provided on your reservation application approximately 2-3 weeks prior to your scheduled departure date.  The package will be delivered by FedEx (can not be delivered to a PO Box).  Your final documents will include your airline tickets, hotel confirmations, emergency contacts, general trip information, luggage tags, portfolio of travel documents, flight bag, and more. Carefully review your tickets to ensure that your name on the tickets are an exact match to that of your passport.  Please note that the name field on your tickets is Only * 19 characters long, therefore names exceeding this length will be cut off (this is not a problem, as your actual reservation contains your full name).  Please also carefully review the itinerary provided to ensure that all departure and destination cities, as well as dates, are correct.  Please contact 206 Tours immediately should any discrepancies be found.

* Please note that late payment/bookings can cause delay in the shipment of your final documents.

International Flights: 
We recommend that you check in for your international flight three hours prior to the scheduled departure time. Passengers must personally check their luggage at the airline counter. Please advise the airline representative of your final destination upon check in so that you will not need to claim your baggage and recheck it during flight connections.  Please note that our pilgrims travel from across the USA.  You will be traveling independently for all flights until your arrival at your final destination.  You will not have a tour escort with you during your flights.  Please be advised that 206 Tours attempts to centralize as many pilgrims as possible on the same flights, so you may arrive/depart on the same flights as many of your co-pilgrims (for additional information see "Arrival Procedure" below).

Airline Connections:
206 Tours must book your airline reservations based on the routings provided to us by the airlines, including connection time, cities for connections, and partner carriers.  Airlines determine the standard for the required minimum connecting time to transfer from one gate to another for each specific airport.  At times, the connection times provided by the airlines are quite tight (i.e. 45 minutes) and require passengers to make haste during their connections.  At times the airline connection times are quite long, due to the flight availability at the time of booking.  While we wish we could determine the connection times for each of our clients, we are subject to the rules, regulations, and availability of the carriers we work with.  We also must ensure that all reservations correspond so that each participant is able to meet the group transfer to/from the airport to hotel and hotel to airport.  We promise to do all in our power to provide you with the most convenient flight schedule available to us at the time of your booking, however, we must still forllow all appropriate airline rules and regulations.

Airline Tickets: 
Most airlines now require that we provide e-tickets in place of paper tickets. At check-in, you should be ready to provide your flight itinerary and passport to the agent. In a few cases where e-tickets cannot be issued, you will receive your tickets in a paper form.  Please note that paper tickets, and boarding passes, must be present in order to check in, and or board the plane.

Code-share Flights:
Many airlines participate in alliances and special agreements with other airlines which permit passengers to travel from one point to another using more than one carrier. While your ticket may indicate that you are flying with one carrier (eg: Air France), you may find that you are actually seated in a plane belonging to another carrier (eg: Delta). Please review your airline itinerary carefully to determine which airline you should go to for check-in; if your flight is operated by a carrier other than the primary airline indicated on the itinerary, your itinerary will state "Flight Operated by (Airline)." If you have any concerns regarding which airline to check-in with, you may contact the airline directly or 206 Tours for clarification.

Airline Mileage Accounts:
Please contact the airline directly to open a mileage account and to obtain credit for the miles flown on this trip.

Health Precautions: 
No inoculations are necessary when arriving Europe, Israel or Egypt from the US. But consult with your health care provider before traveling. Although the water in Europe is completely safe in order to prevent "Montezuma's Revenge", avoid the tap water, including ice cubes. Your stomach may still become upset due to the change in diet. Bring anti-diarrhea medicine just in case. For the latest overseas travel health information, call the Center for Disease Control's travelers' hotline at 404-332-4559. Or visit their web site at www.cdc.gov. 

Travel Warnings:
US State Department Travel Advisories: For up to date US State Department travel advisories you may visit: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/tw/tw_1764.html

Arrival Procedure:
After disembarkation from the plane you will clear immigration, and proceed to claim your luggage. You will exit the baggage claim into the arrival lounge where you will be greeted by driver and/or your Tour Escort displaying a board or sign with your name and/or "206 Tours”, and then you will be transferred to your hotel where you will meet your guide and the rest of your group. Please remember to look for the sign!

If your plane arrives late, or you are re-routed you will probably miss the group transfer which is included in your package.  In such circumstances you will need to pay for your separate private transfer, which you may submit a claim to the airlines for reimbursement upon your return to the USA.  For destinations such as Fatima, Lourdes, Medjugorje, La Salette, and Assisi, where public and taxi transportation is difficult to obtain from the airport, 206 Tours will do all possible to arrange for a private transfer to meet you upon your arrival (if we are aware of your misconnection/arrival flight), however, you will be responsible to remit payment to your driver upon drop off at your destination. If you arrive in one of the previously mentioned destinations, and we have not been able to arrange for a driver to meet you, please call your local emergency contact (listed in your Final Instruction Booklet) so that they may dispatch a transfer for you.  In major cities such as Rome, Paris, Tel Aviv, Warsaw, Budapest, it is best for you to take a taxi directly to your hotel upon arrival should you miss the group transfer.  Please remember to save your receipts.  We strongly recommend the purchase of Traveler's Insurance for this reason (www.206tours.com/insurance).

Luggage:
It is suggested that you attempt to travel with Only * one piece of checked luggage and one carry-on.  International air carriers are becoming stricter about the size and weight of baggage and carry-on luggage. Please contact your air carrier or travel agent for specific information prior to departure as size and weight limitations vary from airline to airline and even according to destination.  For your own comfort and that of fellow passengers, please limit the size of your hand luggage to 17x14x8 in. (43x36x20 cm) for easy storage on the motor coach. Porterage for one suitcase on tour is included in the tour price. Due to limited coach capacity, this single bag should have dimensions not exceeding 45 in overall dimensions (length+width+height) and weight not exceeding 50 lbs (23 kg). A charge of USD 3 per traveling day will be collected by the Tour Director if a second piece of baggage is carried, or if the suitcase exceeds the established weight and/or dimensions. For health reasons, porters may refuse to carry very heavy suitcases. 

Carry all documents and money on your person but not all in the same place to limit the inconvenience in case of loss; do not keep money, important documents, medicines or jewelry in your suitcase; please leave valuable jewelry at home. We recommend a money belt worn inside your clothes, while touring. On departure from your hotel, remember to double check that you have your money belt with you, and that you have collected any items left in the hotel safe. Please, at all times, be as vigilant as you would be in any major city, especially in crowded places such as subways, squares or churches/cathedrals. Never leave your hand luggage unattended or out of sight in public areas, including airports, hotel lobbies or dining rooms. 

Be sure to keep ALL medications in your carry-on bag during your trip in case your suit case should be lost.  Keep a separate list of important numbers, i.e. passport, traveler’s checks, and credit cards, in your luggage, together with photocopies of airline tickets and the relevant pages of your passport/visas.

Keep a separate list of important numbers, i.e. passport, traveler’s checks, and credit cards, in your luggage, together with photocopies of airline tickets and the relevant pages of your passport/visas.

The same common-sense rules of safety and security apply here as to anywhere else:

• Avoid excessive displays of jewelry or cash (Only * carry sufficient for daily needs)

• Use room safes or leave items with the hotel manager

• Make certain that any valuables are insured against theft

• Avoid exploration on your own of unfamiliar streets or areas

• Be especially cautious if gypsies approach you begging

How to Overcome Jet Lag: 
Rapid travel through multiple time zones can take its toll on your physical and mental well-being. "Jet Lag" is the phrase used to describe the condition when an individual's internal body clock is out of sync with the actual time in the region to which you have traveled. It is important to try to adjust your internal body clock to receive the most out of your tour. Here are some tips on how to adjust your body to local time. On the day of the flight/arrival:

•  Get out of bed earlier than usual.

•  Eat a high carbohydrate dinner (e.g. pasta, potatoes, etc.)

•  Drink a lot of water to compensate for the dehydration that is common on long flights.

•  Shortly after your evening meal on your flight, set your watch ahead to Portugal's actual time.

•  Try to rest or sleep as soon as possible on your flight.

•  When you arrive in it will be late afternoon (local time). Keep active, and go to bed around 10:00 PM

Insurance:
Please note that traveler's insurance is STRONGLY recommended for all 206 Tours pilgrims.  Be advised that traveler's insurance can not be purchased after you have paid in full for your trip. For those who have purchased Tripmate Travelers Insurance through 206 Tours a pamphlet will be included in your final documents. Please refer to this brochure for specific stipulations or questions. For more information you can also visit www.206tours.com/insurance.

Transportation:
Distances between Dubrovnik to Medjugorje (& v.v.), Split to Medjugorje (& v.v.) or Sarajevo to Dubrovnik (& v.v.) take by motorcoach approximately 2 1/2 to 3 hours (one way).  During travel days with extensive driving the coach will stop for bathroom/stretch (approximately every 2 to 3 hours) breaks as well as a lunch stop.

Money:
In Medjugorje you now will need to exchange US dollars to Euro. Some shops and restaurants will still except dollars however many do not and prefer Euro. Unfortunately  they do not take credit cards! However, make sure to bring along a credit card for convenience and security, and for "just in case". There is a bank where you can get your money in case needed at a very reasonable exchange rate and can be cancelled should it be lost.

If traveling through other European destinations in conjunction with Medjugorje do bring and use your Visa or MasterCard. Discover Card is not accepted.  You may also choose to bring traveler's checks, however, mostly to do business with bank as most shops/restaurants do not accept them.  It is recommended that you contact your local bank and credit card companies before departing on your trip to advise them that you will be traveling.

We are frequently asked, "How much money should I bring with me?" 

This is an impossible question to answer as each person is different.  The type of lunches you prefer can make a big difference (restaurant vs cafe).  Are you planning on purchasing mementos for yourself or loved ones? We recommend that you bring at least $300. US to cover your water, lunches, taxi, smaller gifts or other smaller personal expenses and approximately $50. for tips (separate envelopes provided).   Remember, you can always spend less, or bring money home!

You can not exchange dollars to Euros in Medjugorje. You will need to do this prior to your arrival at your local home bank or at the airport.

-You can use  travelers checks at most of the gift shops.
-We suggest carrying no higher denomination than $20. (this way if you had to purchase something the change may have to be returned to you in local currency and you may not want to be stuck with Bosnian Marks)
-We suggest $20 - $50 in $5. and $1 increments for taxis and lunches, etc.

Some may have an overnight in Dubrovnik or Split and if so, the currency in Croatia is Kuna.
Do not exchange more money than needed, as Kuna's are useless outside their country and the exchange rate is poor to convert back to U.S. dollars.  The current rate of exchange is 1 U.S. $1 = 8 Kunas.

Personal Expenses That May Occur:
Taxis, usually 5 EURO wherever you go whether 1 person in the car or 4; lunches, personal expenses.

Currency Exchange: 
The EURO is the currency of Portugal, Spain, France, Italy, Germany, Vienna, Ireland, Czech Republic, Greece, Hungary, etc. As of January 25, 2010 the exchange rate is approximately 1 USD = € 0.706885 (EURO).  Keep in mind that this is the "pure" exchange rate, any form of currency exchange has some fees associated.  For up to date currency exchange rates please visit www.xe.com. Please note that the currency flocculation has been particularly volatile in the last year, so we strongly urge you to check the current exchange rates prior to departure and prior to exchange. The official currency for Bosnia-Herzegovina is the marka (BAM), however the Euro is widely used.

Currency Exchange:
Dollar / Euro Converter:  www.xe.com

ATM Machines:
ATM machines (distributeurs /guichets automatiques) can be found at most bank branches, post offices, train stations, airports, shopping centers, etc. and are accessible 24 hrs/day. Most banks charge a commission when you withdraw money, especially if it is from the network of another bank. You should ask your bank for information about where you can use your card and what commissions are charged for withdrawing money. Note: You need a four-digit personal identification number, or PIN (six digits won't work), to use ATMs in Europe. If you have a six-digit code, you have to get a new one for your trip. Be sure to find out your daily withdrawal limit before you depart. Also keep in mind that many banks impose a fee every time a card is used at a different bank's ATM, and that fee can be higher for international transactions (up to $5 or more) than for domestic ones. On top of this, the bank from which you withdraw cash may charge its own fee. For international withdrawal fees, ask your bank before you go.  You can also get cash advances on your credit card at an ATM. Credit card companies try to protect themselves from theft by limiting the funds someone can withdraw outside their home country, so call your credit card company before you leave home. And keep in mind that you'll pay interest from the moment of your withdrawal, even if you pay your monthly bills on time.

Value Added Tax (VAT):
There is 17% value added tax on most goods and services in Bosnia-Herzegovina. At retail stores, this tax is always already included in the price. Upon making a purchase of $50.00 or more at a gift store that has an agreement wit the VAT authorities, you should fill out a form at the store and have it stamped there. You will be eligible, upon presenting the form and the item, for a 17% refund at the airport prior to departure. Do not pack these gift items in your luggage. They should be kept in your hand luggage. By the way, tourist services, such as hotel accommodations and meals taken in hotels, paid with foreign currency are exempt from VAT tax.

How to Get Your VAT (Value Added Tax)  Refund:
Bosnia-Herzegovina sales tax, or VAT (value-added tax), is 17%, but you can get most of that back if you spend € 175 (EURO) or ($274.54 USD as of March 27, 2008) or more at any participating retailer. You must be over 15 years old, and you must present a passport.  The name of the refund is détaxe, meaning exactly what it says. You never really get the full 17% back, but you can come close.  After you spend the required minimum amount, ask for your détaxe papers.  Fill out the forms before you arrive at the airport for departure. Be sure to have the forms stamped at the airport customs desks. The customs official may ask to see your purchases so it's best to have them in your carry-on bag. Mail the stamped forms at the airport (the store provides an envelope) and the refund process has begun (note - this is Only * if Medjugorje is your final point of departure back to the U.S.). For additional information on the VAT refund http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Value_added_tax.  All refunds are processed at the final point of departure from the E.U., so if you're going to another E.U. country, you don't apply for the refund in Bosnia-Herzegovina.  Mark the paperwork to request that your refund be applied to your credit card so you aren't stuck with a check in Euros. Even if you made the purchase in cash, you can still get the refund on a credit card. This ensures the best rate of exchange. You can get cash in some airports, but if you don't take the cash in Euros, you'll lose money on the transaction.  If you're considering a major purchase, ask the store policy before you get too involved -- or be willing to waive your right to the refund.

Weights and Measures:
The metric system is used exclusively through out Europe. A kilometer is a bit over 1/2 mile (.62 miles). A kilogram equals 2.2 pounds.

Time:
Most of Europe operate on a 24 hour clock.  This means that 6:00 pm is 18:00, etc.
Medjugorje is 6 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time (When in New York 2PM in Medjugorje 8PM).

Tipping: 
Tips are an important part of earnings for your escorts, guides and bus drivers. Tip envelopes are enclosed for your convenience.

• Your tour escort who is with you throughout your tour or for the whole day should be tipped $5. per person per day (or depending on the level of the satisfaction) therefore for 7 nights prepare total $35.

• Your bus driver $2.00 per person per day (or depending on the level of the satisfaction) times 3 days, therefore $6. total.

• In Medjugorje it is customary to tip your home owners at least 1.00 per person per day (if 7 nights stay $7.00 total)

Donation to your priest / pilgrimage spiritual leader may also be considered

Restaurants include tax and a 15%service charge (service compris) in their prices. If a meal or service has been particularly good, leaving another EUR1 (or 2) is customary, as is leaving the waiter the small change from your bill if you pay in cash. If service is not included a 15% tip is appropriate.

Hotels / Accommodations: 
Rooms are basic. There is a twin bed, night stand and a small cabinet for your clothes. Several towels can be found on your bed. For the most part rooms are not air conditioned.  Rooms are smaller than you are used to.  Every room does have a modest bathroom. In the bathroom you will find sink, toilet and shower stall. Some showers you may need to hold the shower head while taking a shower.   Fixtures in bathrooms and bedrooms are not standardized.  Most hotels do NOT offer a hair dryer in the bathroom, we recommend bring one if it is essential to you.  Most hotels do NOT offer toiletries (shampoo, lotion), we strongly recommend that you bring an adequate supply with you.

Please note that while we can request non-smoking room there is no such policy of separating smoking v. non smoking.

Remember to check with guide for up to date schedule as there is no modern system of sharing up to date schedule. A basic bulletin notes are written by your guide for important information, suggestions, or changes from your  tour escort.

Electricity:
The voltage used is 220 volts AC, single phase 50 cycles (the U.S. uses 110/120 volts). Unless you use a good quality electric current converter, the heavier voltage will instantly burn out any electrical equipment you wish to use abroad. Before leaving home, you will need to purchase an international adapter so your two-prong plug will connect to the various local electrical supply outlets (check that it is sufficiently powerful for your appliance), and a converter to convert the 220 volts to 110 volts. Adapter/converter kits that include the entire range of plugs can be purchased at better electrical supply stores. Stores such as Radio Shack, Walmart, K-Mart, Target sell adaptor/converter kits readily.  Buying electrical devices in foreign places is not recommended unless you are sure that the current they use is compatible with the current at home. It will likely cost you more than the original price to have an appliance converted.

Telephones:
The telephone country code for Medjugorje is +387  (from US 011 + 387 followed by the city code and telephone number).

Cell Telephones:
You may bring your cellular phone, but make sure to contact your wireless phone provider and inform them, that you will be traveling out of the country (giving them destinations).  Most have an "international plan" if not get one for the trip.  This will allow you to make calls to the United States while you are out of the country using your wireless phone.

Hotel Telephones: 
Please note some accommodations may not have phones available in the room.

Public Telephones: 
Telephone booths are located across from the Information Center (to the left of St. James church) pay phone cards may be purchased from the information room; 5 minutes is about $12 to phone the U.S.

Telephone connections from Medjugorje
International telephone calls can be made from the Post Office, or from the booths recently installed beside the Parish house in the church grounds. There are also kiosks at the round-about at the centre of Medjugorje.
The automatic telephones are worked by telephone cards which can be purchased in the main post-office or at the "information centre", on the Church grounds. The cards range in value depending on the number of impulses.

Phone/Calling Cards:  They will also give instructions in the Information Center:
1- Pick up receiver
2- Slide card in with "arrow" side face up going in first
3- Punch 001 area code phone number
4- The number of minutes you have will keep showing up in the window area on the phone.  Do not punch in the numbers like your running a race.  The 00 gets you out of the country and into the International system, the 1 is the country code for the U.S; no matter where you are in the world you must dial 1 to get in to the U.S.

Public Toilets: 
Known as WC, and available in most tourist locations. Be prepared with tissues in your pocket at all times. Also, be aware that some public toilets are manned/ womaned by attendants who ask for a small "user's fee".

Photography:
If you are bringing a digital camera, make sure to bring extra batteries.  If not digital, remember to bring plenty of film (200 or 400 speed is recommended for outdoor and indoor-flash photography).  Photography is not allowed in some museums and in some security-conscious facilities.

Transfers:
From the airport to Medjugorje (round trip), as well as for excursion to Fr. Jozo in Siroki Brijeg are included. Transfers are not included within Medjugorje. Visits within Medjugorje, getting to and from St. James Church, be prepared to walk (anywhere from 5 - 20 minutes). Of course climbing the Pordbrdo (Apparition Hill) and Krizevac Mountain (Cross Mountain) the Only * form of getting there is by foot.

Terrain:
Medjugorje terrain is very rocky! Expect uneven surfaces everywhere; muddy and slippery surfaces when raining please watch your step! Due to the new structures going up every day of old buildings, access to some establishments may not be convenient for wheelchair use, and facilities for the disabled in general may be limited. Many areas are pedestrian Only * and have rocky terrain, muddy surface or cobblestones. High-heeled shoes are not suitable for Medjugorje; rubber-soled walking shoes are recommended.  Many streets are narrow, and due to strict traffic regulations, the buses are not always permitted to drop groups off directly in front for their houses/ destination. 

Taxis:
Please be prepared to walk. Unlike in other destinations, transfers are not included for all your daily activities.

In order to get to Church, Visionary's House, Podbrdo, Krizevac you will have a choice:  to walk approximately 15 minutes, or to take a taxi at a cost of $6. per ride (regardless of destination within Medjugorje). Of course, it's advisable that you join others, and that $6. taxi ride  be split up within the party/ number of people traveling (maximum 4 people per each ride).

Just like in any other destination, be wary of any person approaching you offering unofficial taxi services. If you do not have an airport transfer included and you need transportation, make your way to the taxi line area, or to the regular taxi line outside the terminal (if at the airport); choose Only * those vehicles with a meter and a taxi sign. We recommend you pre-negotiate the fare, as taxi drivers in some countries may attempt to overcharge unwary travelers.

Capital:
Sarajevo is the capital of Bosnia-Herzegovina. Other major cities are Banja Luka, Tuzla, Bijeljina, Zenica and Mostar. Bordered by Croatia to the north, west and south, Serbia to the east, and Montenegro to the southeast, Bosnia and Herzegovina (also: Bosnia-Herzegovina) is almost landlocked, except for 26 kilometres of Adriatic Sea coastline, centered on the town of Neum.

Local Customs:
A different way of life in some countries on tour may take you by surprise, but if you travel with an open mind and respect local customs and culture, you should find it easier to adapt to and enjoy your new surroundings. Standards of living may not be quite what you are used to, but there are compensations – a closer sense of reality and a more authentic feeling of locale. Due to cultural differences in Europe you may not be greeted quite as cheerfully as back home; smiling is generally reserved for intimate friends! So be especially wary of people presenting themselves as “instant friends” and never accept any offer of food or drink from strangers.

Shopping:
Most stores and businesses are closed on Sundays through out Europe. Stores are open daily from Monday to Saturday. Some observe a "siesta" from 1pm to 4pm, re-opening until 7pm. Some malls close later in the day and are open Saturdays after sundown. Ask your tour escort for regional specialties products which the countries/cities in your itinerary are known for (i.e. Paris is known for fashion, Venice is known for hand blown glass, Santiago de Compostela for the pilgrim shell, etc.).

Enjoy some stress-free Christmas shopping during your travels; small, light items that you can easily carry home make splendid and festive gifts. Don’t forget to buy something nice for yourself too, to take home to evoke pleasant memories of your vacation abroad.

If you purchase a video or DVD, please check very carefully that it is compatible with your home viewing system (for USA and Canada – VHS NTSC and DVD region 1; for Australia, New Zealand and Pacific – VHS PAL and DVD region 4).

Sales tax or VAT (value added tax) is already included on price tags; VAT refunds, if applicable, may sometimes take up to three months to process.

Whenever traveling abroad, be aware of your personal belongings when shopping in crowded areas.

U.S. Customs:
U.S. citizens who have been to Europe for more than two days may return to the United States with up to $800 worth of merchandise duty-free. For those who wish to bring more home with them, a flat rate of 3% duty is levied on the next $1,000 worth of purchases. It's a good idea to retain the receipts from your purchases should they be requested by a Customs Inspector upon your return to the United States. For details visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/travel.

Meals / Food:
Please check with guide upon arrival for meal times. Most breakfasts are basic cold continental buffet style.  Unlike in the USA, it is frowned upon to take food out of the breakfast room.  Most dinners will be served "sit down" with a pre-determined 3 course meal.  Your meals include tap water and coffee or tea.  All other beverages, including bottled water, is at additional cost.  While some may be able to provide for a special diet, such as vegetarian or salt-free, there is no way for us to guarantee this. Also, please note, vegetarian meals tend to lack variety and imagination. Check with your tour guide for a list of alternative restaurants. Food is generally safe to eat.

Tap Water:
While most local tap water will not hurt you, due to differences in mineral and micro-biotic levels, we recommend that you avoid consuming local tap water (including ice), as it may upset your stomach.

General Information About Your Pilgrimage Destination(s):

Climate: 

Due to global weather changes, regional temperatures may deviate from the norms. We recommend layered, easy care, loose-fitting clothing, an item or two for rain or unseasonable temperatures and something warmer. Light-weights for summer. Medium-weights for winter with heavier clothing for inland areas. It is a good idea to pack waterproofs at any time of year.

Mid-summer advice: Wear a sunhat and loose-fitting clothing, drink at least one liter (one quart) of mineral water a day if you can (carry a small bottle in your hand luggage); avoid eating too much ice-cream and reduce the amount of ice in drinks. A small battery-operated fan may be useful in warm weather.

Language:
The official language of the Bosnia is Bosnian, but Croatian is widely spoken in Medjugorje (it's really similar/same).  English is widely spoken in Medjugorje, and most signs appear in English too.

Population:
The population of Medjugorje currently numbers about 4300 inhabitants. All are of Croatian nationality, speak the Croatian language, write with the Latin alphabet and are Catholic. Politically, the new state under which Medjugorje emerges is a parliamentary democracy.  Throughout history, this area was noted for continuous migration. Before the First World War, great poverty drove them out into the world. During the period between the two World Wars, Serbian hegemony and persecution under the new multi-ethnic Yugoslavian state drove many to leave their homeland for the far-off lands of North and South America. The real large scale emigration, however, began after the Second World War, when the Communist dictators forced many to run away beyond the borders of their own native Croatia, suffocated by the communist creation called Yugoslavia. In the early nineteen sixties a real exodus of Croatian people occurred, they left on so called "temporary work" for Germany, Sweden, Switzerland, the USA, Canada, Australia and even as far away as South Africa and New Zealand. The communists said that they had left Only * temporarily, in reality they had sold them throughout the world as slaves. They used them as a cheap way of gaining foreign currency. The irony of the political communist system declared most of them, who were forced to work just for survival itself, to be "enemies of the state," which also condemned their families in the homeland. This is how their return became completely impossible.  The population of the parish of Medjugorje started to return bit by bit, fostered by supernatural events - Our Lady's apparitions (which began back in 1981).

Today, Medjugorje is a part of the state of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Because of the terrible war, the infrastructure of Medjugorje is still underdeveloped. This however, didn't stop pilgrims from coming here, even during the cruelest clashes of the war. Many of them brought aid, thus helping the people to remain where they were.

Passports:
All foreign (non-European) nationals need a valid passport to enter Medjugorje. For an up-to-date country-by-country listing of passport requirements around the world, go to the "Foreign Entry Requirements" page of the U.S. State Department website at http://travel.state.gov/passport/passport_1738.html.

All U.S. citizens must have a valid passport to enter Europe . Please note that for most European travel your passport MUST be valid for 6 months after your scheduled return date. 

A visa is not required for citizens of the USA for most destinations serviced by 206 Tours.  For example the following countries do not require US citizens to obtain a visa for entrance: Portugal, Spain, France, Italy, Germany, Croatia, Bosnia, Medjugorje, Poland, Czech Republic, Hungary, Ireland, Israel, Turkey, Greece.  Please be advised that it is the passengers responsibility to reconfirm if any visa's are required for their trip itinerary.

Visas:
U.S. citizens do not need an entry permit (visa) to stay in Medjugorje as either tourists or on a business trip for a period of up to three months. (If you enter Medjugorje under the Visa Waiver Program, you are not allowed to take up any employment there.) More information is available from the Consulate Section of the Bosnia-Herzegovina Embassy, 2109 E Street, NW Washington, D.C. 20037. (1 202) 337-1500 Fax (1 202) 337-1502
E-mail: info@bhembassy.org

Note: NON US, Canada or Europe Passport Holders may be required to obtain a visa for Croatia as well as Bosnia- Herzegovina, as some of the flights/ routings will take our groups through Croatia (Dubrovnik or Split) to Medjugorje, which is located in Bosnia. Please note that your flights are in/out of Dubrovnik, which is in Croatia, however, Medjugorje is located in Bosnia, therefore you will actually be "visiting" 2 countries.  US or Canadian citizens do not need to obtain visas for Croatia or Bosnia. When and if visa is required it is passenger’s responsibility to obtain one. Please note that obtaining a visa (especially for Bosnia) can be very difficult and usually takes a minimum of 6 weeks to complete.  Please be certain to take this into consideration PRIOR to registering. Cancellations due to lack of appropriate travel documents will incur usual penalties. 

Bosnia-Herzegovina Embassy: www.bhembassy.org
Croatia Consulate or Embassy: www.croatiaemb.org

Emergency Telephone Numbers in Bosnia-Herzegovina:                                       
Emergency Police: 122
Ambulance/Medical: 124
Emergency/Fire: 123

European General Emergency Code:
112

Embassy in Bosnia-Herzegovina:
Americans living or traveling in Europe are encouraged to register with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate through the State Department's Travel Registration web site https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/ui/ , and to obtain updated information on travel and security issues. Americans without Internet access may register directly with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. By registering, American citizens make it easier for the Embassy or Consulate to contact them in cases of emergency.

Alipašina 43, 71000 SARAJEVO
Tel.: 387 33 445-700
Fax: +387 33 659-722
E-mail: bhopa@state.gov

CONSULAR SECTION
Alipašina 43, 71000 Sarajevo
tel: +387 33 445-700
fax: +387 33 221-837
e-mail: consularservicesba@state.gov

For Additional Information About Your Destination:

Please visit the official tourism website as follows: http://www.bhtourism.ba/eng/

What To Pack:

Clothing:
Due to global weather changes, regional temperatures may deviate from the norms. We recommend layered, easy care, loose-fitting clothing, an item or two for rain or unseasonable temperatures and something warmer.

For Winter, Early Spring, and Late Fall:  be sure to back a warm jacket, a hat, scarf and gloves. Just in case.

For Summer, Late Spring, and Late Summer: Bring a sunhat and plenty loose-fitting clothing.  Don't forget a lightweight sweater for the evenings as some places may be a little cooler than others.

A note about summer attire; shorts (or mini skirts) and bare shoulders are considered inappropriate at some religious sites. For men, shorts that can be transformed by zippers into trousers may be convenient.

Bring an all-weather coat, just in case.  We strongly recommend that women bring a shall or sarong which can be placed conveniently in their day bag, so that they may drape their shoulders, or tie around their waists in the more religious sites.

Make sure you have a good pair of walking shoes. If new, make sure you walk in them for a couple of weeks to break them in. On the plane you will want to wear loose-fitting clothes and pack a pair of slippers to wear for the flight, as well as a lightweight jacket. Make sure your shoes are lace-up, as your feet may swell a little.

General Clothing for Men:
Jeans, casual slacks, short and/or long sleeve shirts, socks, undergarments, and light jacket or coat.

General Clothing for Women:
Jeans, long skirts, casual dresses, casual slacks, short and/or long sleeve, socks, stockings, undergarments, and a light jacket or sweater is suggested.

Other Suggested Items to Bring (check list):
__ Inflatable head & neck rest, eye mask, foam earplugs (for flight)
__ Portable alarm clock
__ Flashlight with extra batteries: take batteries out while traveling
__ Old towel or small plastic bag to sit on outside
__ Handy wipes: freshening up during the day
__ Travel pack size Kleenex.
__ Extra batteries for flashlight, camera, recorders
__ Tape recorder or journal for Mass, and talks
__ Extra film for camera: expensive outside of US
__ Travel size poncho, in camping section of Wal-Mart
__ Optional grocery size plastic bags: 1-2 for dirty clothes or items you purchase
__ Soap-small bar travel size
__ Shampoo-travel size or put some in a small container; don't carry some big bottle
__ Toothbrush & Toothpaste-travel size
__ Deodorant-travel size
__ Chap stick
__ Comb/Brush
__ Aspirin/Advil, Etc.
__ Feminine protection
__ Laxative/Imodium
__ Band-aids
__ Dramamine or Bonine - if subject to motion sickness 
__ Pepto Bismol- tablets
__ Sominex
__ Allergy/cold medicine; tablets (put medicines in a sandwich bag)

Health Care: 
Some people find that taking them selves off caffeine and taking compounds high in anti-oxidants to be helpful in combating jet lag. You can also take Jet-stress or Cell Guard which are herbal complexes designed to combat jet lag. Ginger can be helpful in motion sickness. Melatonin helps to allow you to sleep on the plane. These items can be found at most health food stores.

What If...& Frequently Asked Questions:

What should I do if I lose my ticket?
If you should lose your ticket prior to your departure date please contact 206 Tours immediately.  We will fax a copy of your original ticket to the airlines.  You will need to arrive at the airport extra early and sign a Lost Ticket Indemnity Form, and pay the airlines a $100 reissuing fee.  If you should lose your ticket during your trip please immediately inform your tour escort who will advise us, so that we may follow the same proceedure.

What should I do if my flight is cancelled or delayed?
If your flight is cancelled or delayed it is imperative that you work DIRECTLY with the airlines at the airport to arrange for alternate flights or protection.  Please note that once your tickets have been issued or you have check-in for your flights, 206 Tours can no longer make any changes to your flight itinerary.  This can Only * be done by the airlines.  In such case, remember, the squeaky wheel gets the grease, so be persistent.  However, it is important to remember that it is not the airline agents fault, so try your best to remain courteous to them, as you may find that you receive more assistance this way.  Please be advise that the airlines are not required to offer reimbursement for personal expense or overnights when delays/cancellations occur due to weather.  We strongly recommend the purchase of Traveler's Insurance for this reason (www.206tours.com/insurance).  However, if you find that you have no luck with the airline personnel, please contact 206 Tours and we shall do all in our power to assist you.

What should I do if I miss my flight due to my late arrival at my departure airport?
If you should miss your flight, due to your own late arrival at your departure airport, it is imperative that you work DIRECTLY with the airlines at the airport to arrange for alternate flights.  You will incur additional costs (minimum of $200 per person) for such changes.  Please note that you should contact 206 Tours once your alternate arrangements have been made so that we may arrange for a private transfer (at your expense) if necessary.

What happens if I miss my group transfer upon arrival?
If your plane arrives late, or you are re-routed you will probably miss the group transfer which is included in your package.  In such circumstances you will need to pay for your separate private transfer, which you may submit a claim to the airlines for reimbursement upon your return to the USA.  For destinations such as Fatima, Lourdes, Medjugorje, La Salette, and Assisi, where public and taxi transportation is difficult to obtain from the airport, 206 Tours will do all possible to arrange for a private transfer to meet you upon your arrival (if we are aware of your misconnection/arrival flight), however, you will be responsible to remit payment to your driver upon drop off at your destination. If you arrive in one of the previously mentioned destinations, and we have not been able to arrange for a driver to meet you, please call your local emergency contact (listed in your Final Instruction Booklet) so that they may dispatch a transfer for you.  In major cities such as Rome, Paris, Tel Aviv, Warsaw, Budapest, it is best for you to take a taxi directly to your hotel upon arrival should you miss the group transfer.  Please remember to save your receipts.  We strongly recommend the purchase of Traveler's Insurance for this reason (www.206tours.com/insurance).

What happens if I have a problem or complaint during my trip?
If you have any problems, concerns, or complaints during your trip, please communicate them IMMEDIATELY to your tour escort.  Your tour escort is at your disposal to assist you with all your needs including issues with your hotel room, meals, etc.  Remember, there is very little that can be done to undo a problem once you have returned home, but, most of the time your tour escort can address any concerns you may have swiftly.  However, if the issue is not resolved to your satisfaction by your tour escort, then please contact our office.

What should I do if I want to change my ticket?
If you would like to change your ticket for any reason once it has been issued you MUST work DIRECTLY with the airlines.  You will incur additional costs (minimum of $200 per person) for such changes.

For more on our general terms and conditions visit www.206tours.com/terms

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