How much is a Cultural Debris Excursion?
$5000 for a week or $7000 for ten days. A deposit of 25% (non-refundable) is required to secure your spot and full payment is needed 90 days prior to the Excursion.
What’s included in the Excursion?
Your room and two meals each day (breakfast and a main meal, either mid-day or evening depending on itinerary), plus any local transportation and entrance fees. Your airfare is not included.
How do I get there?
While you are responsible for arranging your air (and possibly train or bus) travel to the Excursion location, we are happy to consult with you about appropriate flights and train/bus bookings.
Will there be walking?
Yes, there will be walking. The primary mode of transportation through historic European cities is walking. Obviously some days will have more walking than others. There will be frequent opportunities to rest. We do recommend walking in your neighborhood or at a local park several times each week prior to your Excursion. Sometimes there are hikes scheduled, but usually alternate plans can be made for you if the hike is more rigorous than you want.
Do I have to carry my own luggage?
Yes, you will be responsible for your own luggage. Usually we are staying in one place multiple nights so we try to keep moving around to a minimum. However, sometimes you will be on upper floors and not every hotel or B&B has an elevator. That’s the nature of old Europe. Pack as lightly as you can. Your hosts will be happy to help as they can (we have luggage, too).
What should I pack (and are there hairdryers)?
Pack as lightly as possible and as versatile as possible. Bring good walking shoes. Plan on wearing pants or skirts/casual dresses (not shorts). Europeans don’t really wear shorts out and we will be going into churches that may have dress codes. Ladies may want a sweater or scarf to throw over their shoulders for churches if wearing something sleeveless. Wear things you are comfortable walking in, khakis, jeans, or hiking/outdoor pants. Avoid athleisure. You won’t need to dress up. Men don’t need a tie or a sportcoat.
Bring a plug adapter (something like this). We also recommend some kind of portable battery bank to charge your phone while you’re out for the day (like this).
Some guests (and hosts) may not need hairdryers, but other guests do. You won’t need to bring a hairdryer. Your room will have one.
Ladies may find this podcast helpful in outlining a good packing strategy.
Wait, there are readings? Do I have to do them?
Each Excursion has an assigned book and additional short readings. These are meant to be a way to enhance your Excursion experience. We use them as points of discussion as we walk and during meals. We think you will benefit by joining in. However, it’s your Excursion! Readings are encouraged but not mandatory. There are no tests!
Is it safe?
Yes, but always be aware. We vet the places we go and have every confidence that the places we take you are safe. But often we are in a large city or on public transportation and there can be pickpockets, etc. Use caution and common sense. If you’re concerned about a situation don’t hesitate to ask us.
Why do I have so many keys? Where’s my key card?
While sometimes we do stay in more modern hotels, usually we prefer older accommodations in the historic center. We often are staying in buildings that are centuries old. It may be the case that you could have as many as three keys: a building key, an apartment key, and a room key. That’s a feature not a bug! That’s how the locals live, too.
Should I be agreeable and flexible?
Yes, you should! We have plans for each day, but sometimes weather or an unexpected closure (or a nationwide strike!) will force a change of itinerary. Everyone is jetlagged, in a new environment, and probably walking more than they’re used to. We understand! If you need a break and a gelato just tell us. Gelato makes everything better.
What if I want to arrive early/stay longer?
You are welcome to do that! We are happy to make suggestions about travel and accommodations.
I can’t eat gluten. Can I still go?
Of course! Please let us know of any dietary restrictions ahead of time and we can make arrangements with our restaurants. Keep in mind that many of our restaurants are small and traditional, but we will work with you and them for the best experience.