FAQs

General

  • What is cultural travel?

    Cultural, or the new buzz word – Experiential Travel is exactly that – the opportunity to experience a new culture through opportunities involving exchanges or interaction with the people who live there. Our tour participants share a common interest to discover what lies beyond the regular tourist attractions.

  • What type of transportation is used on our escorted tours?

    A modern, air-conditioned motor coach will transport you to all activities and destinations. Not all are equipped with a washroom but frequent stops are made for bathroom breaks.

    On some tours we also travel by train and/or a ferry for short durations.

  • What about smoking?

    There is no smoking allowed on the bus, in restaurants, or in taxis. Some hotels provide non-smoking rooms, but it is not common. In the past this has not presented a problem as many floors are tile and the rooms are well ventilated.

  • How long have you been in business?

    Cuba Discovery Tours is a Canadian corporation (3426760 Manitoba Ltd.) and a full service licensed travel agency operating as McPhail Travel since 1980.

    We are members of IATA (International Air Transport Assoc.) and ACTA (Assoc. of Canadian Travel Agencies) and an elite member of vacation.com, North America’s largest travel consortium.

    Our success comes from constantly exceeding our clients expectations and providing unforgettable travel experiences.

Requirements

  • Do I need a passport and/or travel visa?

    A valid passport is required for all of our tour destinations.

    Tourist Cards or Visas do not have to be applied for ahead of time for Cuba, Costa Rica or El Salvador.

    For visitors to Cuba, a Cuban Tourist Card is also required and will be supplied by the airline on the aircraft between Canada and Cuba. Otherwise it can be purchased at the airport in countries such as Mexico. Call us for more details.

    El Salvador and Costa Rica do not require specific Travel Visas.

  • What do I need to know to prepare for my vacation?

    After you have booked a tour we will send you a comprehensive guide that will include information regarding currency, credit and debit cards, voltage and adaptors, an extensive suggested packing list and much more to help you enjoy your vacation and destination to the maximum.

Insurance

  • Do I need to get vaccinated?

    Cuba

    Currently no vaccinations are required to travel to Cuba however it is in your best interest to visit your public health care department for updated information. There are basic precautions that they may recommend such as Hepatitis A and tetanus shots.

    There are mosquitos in some areas therefore mosquito repellent is recommended, however there is currently no malaria in Cuba.

    El Salvador

    Currently no vaccinations are required to travel to El Salvador however it is in your best interest to visit your public health care department for updated information.  There are basic precautions that they may recommend such as Hepatitis A and tetanus shots.

    Costa Rica

    Currently no vaccinations are required to travel to Costa Rica however it is in your best interest to visit your public health care department for updated information. There are basic precautions that they may recommend such as Hepatitis A and tetanus shots.

Payment

  • Payment options

    We accept cash, debit, cheque or payments by e-mail. (If you are not familiar with e-mail payments check with your bank. It is easy and convenient.)

    We are happy to accept Visa or MasterCard but do charge a %3 fee processing fee.

  • What is your cancellation policy?

    In the event that you have to cancel you must notify Cuba Discovery Tours immediately in writing. The following scale of charges will apply according to the date that notice is received. Air fare penalties may differ and will be discussed at the time of ticket purchase.

    Notification: Penalty:
    65 days or more Deposit Only
    64 to 30 days 50% of Tour cost
    29 days or less 100%
  • When is full payment due?

    Full payment is due 65 days prior to departure.

  • Is a deposit required?

    To confirm your place on a tour a deposit of $300.00 per person is required. An additional payment for flights may be required as well.