FAQ
What do Exeter’s services include?
We can arrange for everything and anything in the destinations we serve. Our network in each city and country in our region extends from the very best hotels to hand-selected guides to the best transportation options available. Each program is custom-designed and based on the preferences of each traveler. For that reason, we ask lots of questions about interests, preferences and travel style in our first conversation. Our programs typically include a private vehicle, driver and guide, as described in the program. All services are noted for each day in our day-by-day programs. Itineraries can also include hotel arrangements, entrance tickets and concert/ballet/theatre tickets, if requested.
Do we offer group trips?
We offer three types of group trips. Firstly is our annual Founder’s Trip, hosted by our founder, Greg Tepper. These small group trips visit amazing sites in some of our top destinations. We also offer arrangements on the private and luxurious Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express and Golden Eagle Danube Express – private and exclusive group train journeys in Russia, Central and Eastern Europe and beyond. For cruisers, we also offer departures on the Volga Dream – the only luxury boutique vessel on the Russian waterways.
How far in advance should I book my trip?
We strongly advise booking as far in advance as you are comfortable with. Many of our top guides are reserved months in advance, and accommodation in many of our destinations are on the small size and fill up quickly during peak travel seasons. In order to secure the best availability and most options, we encourage booking (on average) at least 6 to 8 months in advance.
Which of the countries that Exeter International serves have visa requirements for North American travelers?
For travel to all destinations your passport must be valid for a minimum of 6 months after the date of travel, and you must have two blank pages as a minimum. You will need to get a visa in advance for the following countries:
Visa required for travel to Azerbaijan (e-visa)
Visa required for travel to Russia
Visa required for travel to Uzbekistan
I don’t have enough pages in my passport to allow for new Visas. Can I have pages added to my existing passport?
It's no longer possible to add pages to a US passport. You will have to apply for a new passport and factor this in to your time.
Why should I book with Exeter International instead of booking all the components independently?
• We offer a highly personalized service, from knowledgeable travel experts that have lived and worked in countries that we have a passion for.
• We have a North American perspective and can communicate your exact requirements to our local teams in a way that ensures you get the service you expect.
• If you are traveling to more than one country, you have the assurance that one person has planned each destination with the same standards.
• We listen to your needs and requirements and tailor suggestions for you accordingly, saving you hours of research, and possible misinformation.
We have preferred rates at our recommended hotels that are at or below the published rates for each. The value in our services comes from the deep knowledge we bring to the table – from the very best hand-selected guides, to personally-vetted restaurant, completely customized trip planning and even the best theater performances – we offer an incredible value and knowledge base for this region of the world that cannot be matched, even with hours and hours of online research.
For more detail on the value we offer when booking your vacation, please see here.
Can I just book an Extraordinary Experience and a Guide?
We do not offer a ‘concierge only’ service for tours and guides.
For any further information, contact one of our experts.
Can Exeter International help me book my airfare?
If you need help coordinating airfare, whether it’s for purchased air or mileage tickets, we can refer you to the Exeter Air Desk. Please let us know if you require assistance with purchasing airfare.
For mileage tickets, we can direct you to Cranky Concierge. They focus 100% of their energy on airline tickets and, for a fee, will find you the best airfare for miles. Their contact information is: 888-747-1011 or orangeteam@crankyconcierge.com. You can see more about their services here.
