Dear Pilgrims,

Thank you for reserving your place on the Queen of Apostles Marian Shrines Pilgrimage with Father Alexander Diaz.

Your final travel documents are now available for download below for use on your phone or computer. While printing is optional, we kindly ask that you thoroughly review all the important details and FAQs at the bottom of the page.

Please also note the Pre-Trip Meeting on August 28, 2024, at 7:30 PM (Attendance is not mandatory. Further details below).

I look forward to accompanying you as we prayerfully journey through Portugal, Spain, and France, honoring Our Blessed Mother at these sacred shrines.

For our departure, we will meet at Dulles Airport on September 9 at 5:30 PM, in front of the Swiss Airlines counter (further details below).

Should you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to contact me directly.

Warm regards,

Dan Callahan
Pilgrimage Director
dan@jmjtours.com

Date:  Wednesday, August 28, 2024

Time: 7:30 PM

Location:  

Hannan Hall
Queen of Apostles Catholic Church
4401 Sano St
Alexandria, VA 22312

Please find your final trip documents below. They are in PDF format and available for you to download and store on your smartphone for use during the trip. You can also download them to your home computer and print them if you prefer.

Or click on each document to download separately:

FINAL ITINERARY: Final Day to Day detailed Itinerary with detail etc. is provided on your badge at the airport meeting prior to departure on September 9, 2024.

Date: September 9, 2024
Time: 5:30 PM
Location: Dulles Airport (IAD)
 in front of Swiss Airlines Desk

We will distribute the final packet at the airport meeting:

• Special Luggage Tags
• Trip Badge
• Itinerary
• Check into flights

Father Diaz will lead us in a pilgrimage prayer

(Please review)

Portugal
visitportugal.com/en/sobre-portugal/info-util

Spain
spain.info/en/info

France
france.fr/en/practical

SHOULD I PACK A CHANGE OF CLOTHES IN MY CARRY ON?

Certainly! It’s highly recommended to include at least one set of clothes, along with spare socks, undergarments, and your essential medications in your carry-on bag. This preparation ensures you’re equipped in case your checked baggage encounters delays or goes missing. Additionally, consider packing toothpaste, a toothbrush, and deodorant for your comfort and convenience during travel.

SEATING REQUESTS FOR ALL FLIGHTS

Our reservation on the flights is a group reservation. Group reservations are made 6-11 months in advance. With a group reservation the airline computer blocks seats in advance at that time. (Note: The seats are not always together in one section or area of the plane).

• 60 days prior to the trip departure date, we provide the names. The computer assigns the names to the pre-assigned seats in the group reservation.
• 30 Days prior the airline requests any final name changes and processes the group electronic reservation as a whole.
• Once the names are officially assigned to the flights in the group reservation. We are permitted to make requests.
• It is the airline policy that those requests are for the seats within the pre-assigned original group seats. Thus, we have a limited number of aisle seats, window etc within the group reservation.
• We first request couples or roommates traveling together be seated together. Then we request any special requests for an aisle or window etc.
• Due to the nature of the group reservation with the computer generated blocked seats, those requests are not always granted.
• Finally, once the group is at the airport checking-in we advise couples, those traveling together or those with special needs (window, aisle etc) check their seats with the agent at the counter. Typically, if your request is available they will make the change.

WHAT DO I NEED TO CHECK IN FOR MY FLIGHT?

• Valid U.S. Passport with at least 6 months remaining before expiration.
• (Optional) Frequent flyer membership.

ARE THERE MEALS ON THE FLIGHTS

Meals are included on all transatlantic flights. Occasionally, a small meal may be provided on connecting flights within Europe.

RESTROOMS IN EUROPE

Some public restrooms require a small fee. Usually a 1 Euro coin. If you have any euro coins, please bring them. Some of the restrooms with an attendant will accept a US dollar bill. Otherwise, you can make a small purchase using U.S. Dollars in a small shop (Water, gum etc)  and you will receive some euro coins as change.

You can also walk into a coffee shop or restaurant / bar and purchase a coffee or pastry and use the restroom free of charge.

RESTROOM ON THE BUS

The restroom on the bus is very small and for emergency use only. We will make rest stops for breaks as needed.

TIPPING FOR MEALS ON THE PILGRIMAGE

(See TIP GUIDE TRAVEL DOCUMENT FOR MORE INFO)

Tips for meals provided on the itinerary are included.

Tipping for meals on your own in is not expected or mandatory. In these countries a tip is generally considered a bonus for excellent service.

TIP GUIDE FOR BUS DRIVER AND GUIDES
(Not included in the cost of the pilgrimage)

U.S. Cash $ or Euros € is acceptable

PLEASE SEE THE TIP GUIDE TRAVEL DOCUMENT:

Procedure:

BUS DRIVER & GUIDE
At the appropriate time nearing the end of the service, we will pass around (1) envelope for the Bus Driver and (1) for the Guide. (U.S. Cash or Euros is acceptable)

LOCAL GUIDES
It is customary for pilgrims to personally thank and tip local guides at the end of the short tour if they wish. Simply approach the guide, express your thanks, and offer your tip.

CASH AT A BANK ATM

We recommend using only ATM machines at official BANKS only for the best exchange rates. Not private ATM’s at stores, airport, restaurants, exchange kiosks etc.

The cash you receive from the ATM will be in Euros.

TRAVEL ALERT for your credit card & debit card. Please be sure to notify your bank and provide a Travel Notice that you will be traveling September 10-19, 2024 in Portugal, Spain and France.

HOLY MASS DONATIONS (U.S. $ or Euros € are ok)

It is customary as a pilgrimage group to pass a basket or leave a donation at each church where we celebrate Holy Mass. This is a kind gesture supporting these local churches that welcome our pilgrims. A suggested minimum donation is
$5 per person for each Holy Mass. More if you desire. (U.S. cash or Euros is ok)

HOW CAN I EFFECTIVELY VOICE QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS DURING THE PILGRIMAGE?

During your pilgrimage, your JMJ Tours Trip Director and Main (on trip) Escort are available around the clock to support you. Please feel free to promptly share any issues, concerns, or grievances directly with your Trip Director or Trip Escort for the best resolution. Trip Staff is dedicated to assisting you with hotel stays, meals, transportation, and any other needs you may have.

Addressing concerns during the pilgrimage ensures timely solutions as rectifying problems once you’ve returned home becomes challenging. Most issues can be swiftly resolved when communicated to your guide without delay.

WILL THERE BE OPPORTUNITIES FOR SHOPPING?

Yes! We’ve set aside specific, free time for shopping and other activity during your pilgrimage. This scheduling is essential to maintain the pace needed to cover all the planned sites. Feel free to consult your tour staff for recommendations on local specialty items. Small and lightweight items that are easy to carry make fantastic souvenirs and gifts. Don’t forget to treat yourself to something special too!

Tip: When shopping, consider using your credit card for added security. This helps protect your purchase, and if any issues arise, you can address them accordingly.

For gift shops situated at shrines, churches, or basilicas: Cash only? Some of these holy sites have small gift shops managed by clergy, with proceeds directed towards maintaining the site. These shops might not accept credit cards, so it’s advisable to carry some cash for purchases at these locations.

Concerned about purchasing big, heavy, or fragile items? Arrangements can often be made at the shop or hotel to have these items shipped directly to your home for your convenience.

What precautions should I take while shopping abroad? Be cautious in high-traffic areas, especially well-known tourist spots, as they can attract pickpockets. Always remain vigilant about your personal belongings in crowded places. Try to avoid displaying your money or credit cards in public areas, except when making a purchase.

WHEN DO WE GO THROUGH IMMIGRATION & CUSTOMS?

We will go through passport control for the EU in Lisbon.

Upon returning from Paris, we will go through customs and immigration at Dulles Airport when re-entering the U.S.

U.S. CUSTOMS INFORMATION

For U.S. citizens returning from Europe after a stay of more than two days, you can bring back up to $800 worth of merchandise duty-free. Beyond that, a flat rate of 3% duty applies to the next $1,000 worth of purchases. It’s advisable to keep receipts handy in case a customs inspector requests them upon your return to the United States. For more detailed guidelines, please refer to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website at www.cbp.gov/travel.

VALUE ADDED TAX (VAT) REFUND

There’s a 20-23% depending on country (VAT) value-added tax on most goods and services, already included in the retail price. When making a purchase of $200 or more at a VAT-refundable store, ask for a refund document, usually called détaxe, and get it stamped. Non-European citizens over 18 years old presenting this form and the item purchased can receive a refund at the airport before departing. However, note that the actual refund may not be the full tax, but it is close. Tourist services paid in foreign currency, like hotel accommodations and meals, are exempt from VAT tax.

Steps for Obtaining Your VAT Refund:

After spending at least $200 at a participating retailer, request détaxe papers. Ensure store policies align with your refund expectations. Complete the forms before arriving at the airport for departure to the U.S. Refunds are processed at the final E.U. departure point, even if you’re traveling to another E.U. country. Have the forms stamped at the airport customs desks and pack your purchases in your carry-on for inspection. Mail the stamped forms using the provided envelope at the airport to initiate the refund process.

Tip: Opt to have your refund applied to your credit card for the best exchange rate. Even if you made a cash purchase, it can still be refunded to your credit card. While cash refunds are available at some airports, rejecting Euros may result in a loss during the exchange.

CAUTION! LANDSCAPE & TERRAIN IN EUROPE

Landscapes across Europe often feature varying elevations and uneven terrain. Exercise caution while navigating as some areas may have split levels and irregular ground surfaces. Accessibility to certain establishments might be challenging for wheelchair users due to the layout of old buildings, and facilities catering to the disabled community might be limited. Additionally, numerous pedestrian zones are paved with cobblestones, making high-heeled shoes unsuitable. It’s advisable to wear rubber-soled walking shoes for comfort and stability.

It’s important to note that many European streets are narrow, and stringent traffic regulations may prevent buses from dropping groups directly at their destinations. Expect to walk short distances and be prepared for this while planning your itinerary.

CELL PHONES

You can use your smartphone throughout the pilgrimage. Before departure, it’s advisable to contact your service provider and notify them about your travel plans to Italy. Many providers offer convenient “international plans” specifically designed for such occasions. These plans enable you to make calls back to the United States while abroad. Additionally, some providers offer a “passport plan” where you pay a fixed daily fee, allowing normal phone usage without incurring roaming or data charges. This plan typically covers calling, texting, and the use of certain apps (like WhatsApp) that enable free calls over WiFi, offering an efficient way to stay connected with home.

Tip: It’s recommended to avoid using hotel phones as they often incur significantly higher costs compared to using a cellphone for communication purposes.

IS IT SAFE TO DRINK THE LOCAL TAP WATER?

Typically, local tap water is considered safe, but variations in mineral content and microorganisms might affect some individuals. To err on the side of caution, it is advisable to refrain from consuming local tap water as it might cause stomach discomfort. Bottled water is recommended.

Tip: Utilize travel and meal times as opportunities to stay hydrated. Mineral and regular water is usually included with most meals.

HOTELS / ACCOMMODATIONS

• Your hotels come equipped with all the modern conveniences such as showers, toilets, bathtubs, and hair dryers, similar to those found in U.S. hotels. However, please keep in mind that rooms may be smaller in size according to European standards.
  
• You are responsible for any mini-bar items and charges for paid TV channels, etc. Please be aware that although we request non-smoking rooms for our clients, European hotels may be less strict about enforcing these rules.

TOILETRIES

Hotels provide soap, shampoo, conditioner, and other toiletries commonly found at home. Housekeeping is typically available , along with fresh towels. However, some hotels do not supply washcloths, so it’s advisable to bring your own.

We recommend bringing your own shampoo, conditioner, body lotion, and other personal care items, as the chemicals and fragrances in hotel products may not be suitable for your skin type.

ELECTRICITY

Before leaving home, you will need to purchase an international adapter to connect your two-prong plug to various local electrical outlets. Ensure it is powerful enough for your appliance. If your appliance is not multi voltage, additionally, you’ll need a converter to convert 220 volts to 110 volts. (For example an I-phone charger is multi voltage 110-220v, so you just need the small adapter, not a converter.)

Adapter/converter kits that include a range of plugs can be purchased at electronics stores or online. Stores like Wal-Mart and Target sell these kits. It is not recommended to buy electrical devices abroad unless you are certain they are compatible with the current used at home.

Additional Info on adapters and converters click here

TAXIS

Select taxis that have a meter and display a taxi sign.

It’s advisable to pre-negotiate the fare, as some taxi drivers in certain countries may try to overcharge you (Especially in Paris)

Special note: Please select taxis from the official Taxi stands outside major monuments such as the Eiffel Tower.

GUIDELINES FOR SAFETY AND SECURITY

• Protect your Passport (Keep in a safe zippered pocket if possible)
• Refrain from excessive displays of jewelry or cash (carry only what you need for the day).
• Utilize room safes or entrust valuables to the hotel manager (safe at desk).
• Ensure valuables are insured against theft.
• Avoid venturing alone into unfamiliar areas.
• Exercise caution if approached by unfamiliar individuals.

FINAL NOTE ON SCHEDULED ITINERARY

While we endeavor to adhere to the itinerary, it should be viewed as a guide to the tour rather than a contractual agreement regarding specific destinations to be visited.

Occasionally, local religious holidays, national events, traffic conditions, and other unforeseen circumstances may require changes to the sequence of visits or the omission of certain stops.

We aim to hold daily Mass and to visit the designated sites as indicated. However, there may be instances where this is not feasible due to site availability or unexpected itinerary adjustments. In such cases, an alternative location for Mass will be arranged.