In most instances, the brochures provided by the tour operators will contain all the information you need in order to know exactly what you're getting for your money, to compare one tour or vacation package with another and to avoid unpleasant surprises.

Before you begin to collect and read the brochures, you should make a list of your vacation goals. This will help to keep in focus the things that are most important to you as you compare the options. And don't hesitate to turn to your travel agent when questions arise - there's no such thing as a silly question when your hard-earned vacation dollars are involved.

The following "checklist" will help you select the tour or vacation package that's right for you:

THE TOUR/VACATION PACKAGE PRICE

Be sure to check carefully what's included in the price and what's not. For example, does the price include air fare, or is it for land arrangements only? If air fare is included in the price, is the stated price from your home city or will there be an additional cost for an "add-on" fare? If air fare is not included, are you free to fly the airline of your choice?

Several other factors may add to the price, such as optional excursions, service charges and/or taxes, weekend air surcharges and high season supplements. And, if you're traveling alone, there is often a supplement fee for single accommodations.

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THE TOUR ITINERARY

The day-to-day itinerary described in the brochure is a guide for what you can expect to see and do while on a tour. Make note of the cities and sites that you'll actually be visiting, as opposed to those places that you'll simply be driving through (often indicated by terms such as "see" or "view" in the brochure). There's a big difference, and you should be aware of these distinctions to avoid disappointment.

Other important questions to consider when comparing tour itineraries include:

Are you comfortable with the amount of time spent traveling by bus, rail or other transportation during the tour? Is there a great deal of walking involved? Does there seem to be enough free time for shopping or exploring on your own, or is there too much leisure time for your taste? Everyone has their own level of energy and sense of adventure, and there are enough choices of tours on the market so that you can come as close as possible to your preferences without making a lot of compromises.

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HOTELS

No question about it, accommodations play a key role in the success of a trip. Many travelers say the most important one. You should pay close attention to the descriptions and ratings of the hotels featured. Keep in mind that hotel ratings in other countries may not always reflect American standards, and that every country has its own hotel rating system. In other words, a "deluxe" hotel in one country could differ in size, amenities and degree of luxury from a similarly rated hotel in another country.

Also be aware of location of the hotels. Hotels situated just outside the center of a city shouldn't be inconvenient if you'll be sightseeing by tour bus or if you have a rental car. On the other hand, if you are going to have a lot of free time in the cities you'll be visiting, you may prefer hotels that are centrally located.

If you still have questions about the hotels after reading the brochure, by all means check with your travel agent.

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MEALS

Dining is one of the most enjoyable parts of the travel experience. Read the brochure carefully to determine how much regional "flavor" you can look forward to on each program. How many and what kind of meals are included each day? Will you have a choice of the menu or will you be limited to a smaller group of selections? Be sure you understand the terms often used in connection with meal information, such as "Continental Breakfast", "Full Board" and "MAP" (see glossary).

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THE "CONDITIONS"

Found at the end of most brochures, this information deserves a lot more attention than it usually receives. Many important points are covered, including details about reservations, cancellations, refunds and availability of insurance.

Be sure you understand the policy in regard to cancellations, changes in departure date and refunds, and any cancellation and/or modification penalties that may apply, both to land and air travel portions of the trip. Remember, while this is a pleasure trip for you, it is a business for the tour operator.

The Conditions page may also specify the Ground Operators, if any, who are participating in the program. These are local travel companies, selected for their reliability and expertise, who usually provide motorcoaches, sightseeing tours and other services arranged by the tour operator.

Other important items usually covered by the Conditions page include: Meals, Accommodations, Air Transportation, Sightseeing, Baggage Allowance, Health Information and the items Not Included in the price. Remember, the Conditions page may not be as colorful as the rest of the brochure, but it's every bit as important in helping you reach the most informed decision.

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