GETTING PREPARED

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What is the best time of year to travel? What is the weather expected to be like in my chosen destination at the time I want to travel?

Weather and seasons are important factors when travelling to the North and South. The seasons heighten the beauty of the landscape and make everything fresh, different from home and new.

Scandinavia

In Scandinavia, the summers are warm and mild and generally it is unusual for it to be windy. Autumn brings spectacular displays of colours and fresher weather. Spring in Scandinavia is awash with wildflowers and the blossoms.

The Gulf Stream plays an influential part in the weather patterns of Scandinavia. Areas on the Norwegian coast, Iceland and Greenland, as with other areas of Northern Europe experience the powerful warmer air moving into these areas, keeping it warmer than it should be. This stream means that you will be travelling into the Arctic with milder weather conditions than in 50 degrees south.

At 50 Degrees North, we believe strongly that it is important to know before you travel the weather conditions you might expect on your trip. Norwegians have a saying about “there is no such thing as bad weather, there is only bad clothing”. We have prepared a table below that gives an indication of the daylight hours and temperatures. For more details, please refer to the links below the table.

Don’t be put off by the minus signs before the letters. Your tour guides and the structure of the tours accommodate for these temperatures, cabins are cosy, fires are lit and if you need to buy more clothing during your trip, Scandinavian woollen gear is of great abundance and quality. We have found by experience that prices are also very moderate compared to your typical high quality woollen/cold weather gear in Australia.

On the days that indicate a very short time of actual sun rise, it is important to know that there is a long dawn and a long dusk. The actual time that you can see outside, therefore, is considerably extended.

Indicative Hours of Daylight and Temperatures

Good resource for Nordic weather patterns: http://www.yr.no/english/1.2025949

Good resource for Sunrise/Sunset times: http://www.timeanddate.com/worldclock/astronomy.html?n=211

Japan

Spring (Mar - May) is the best time to visit Japan, as the days are normally clear and the cherry blossoms are out in bloom. This is also the busiest time however. The next best time is September to November. Days are warm but not too humid and the autumn colours make the gardens and countryside look amazing. Winter (December to February) can be very cold but this is a good time for skiing and many towns have snow festivals. The summer months can be unpleasantly humid but tourist areas are generally quieter.

China

Northern spring (Apr/May) and autumn (Sep/Oct) are the best times to visit China, as summer can be hot and dusty. Dust storms from the Gobi desert can descend upon Beijing and create an unpleasant environment.

Mongolia

Northern summer between June and September is the best time to go in particular around and during the Naadam festival.

When is the best time to see the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis)?

The period between November and April are generally the best months to see the Northern Lights, and nights closest to full moon should be avoided as this brightens the sky.  The Northern Light emits more concentrated colours and longer experiences on the eve of a new moon.

New Moon Northern Winter 2011/12: 27 Sep, 26 Oct, 25 Nov, 24 Dec, 23 Jan, 21 Feb, 22 Mar, 21 Apr

Full Moon Northern Winter 2011/12: Sep 12, Oct 12, Nov 10, Dec 10, Jan 9, Feb 7, Mar 8, Apr 6

What causes the Northern Lights?

Aurora happens when the sun sends off particles into space. These particles are charged, and form what is called ‘solar wind’. When solar wind hits Earth’s magnetic field in the Polar areas, where the magnetic shield is less powerful, it collides with particles in our atmosphere and creates electricity and light. It is this light that we see as the Northern Light, or Aurora Borealis. An aurora can also occur when the charged particles rip through the electromagnetic field because of their power.

Do I need to get a visa?

Some of the countries we travel to require you have a visa before arrival. This will also vary depending on which nationality passport you hold. We have details about how to get your visa on our visa section on the website. It’s best to get visas organised in good time before travel, as the processing time in some cases can be quite tedious. Note however, that you shouldn’t organise the visa too early as the visa is normally valid for 3 months from the date of issue.

It is your responsibility to carry a valid passport at all times. Please ensure that your passport is valid for 6 months beyond the duration of your holiday.

For details see: http://fiftydegreesnorth.com/pages/Visas

Will public holidays affect my trip?

We will alert you to any public holidays that might crop up during your tour that may affect transport schedules, opening hours and services. 

WHAT TO BRING

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What is the most appropriate type of luggage to bring?

We advise that you use either a compact backpack with wheels or a regular back pack. Wheels are difficult on cobblestones but this small inconvenience is outweighed by the comfort of wheeling your bags through airports and such. Regular suitcases can be difficult to travel with as they are bulky and difficult to secure on transport, unless you are travelling on our private coach trips where the suitcase is stowed underneath for the tour.

What is the best place to purchase appropriate boots for the Polar expedition voyages?

Unless you are travelling on the Plancius, you will be advised to bring some knee-high rubber boots. These boots will be used in virtually all of our shore landings with Zodiacs.

You will receive detailed information regarding the most appropriate type of boot in your booking literature. However, as the information is written for an international audience some of the suggested brands are not available in Australia. We suggest that you look at the Blundstone range of boots http://www.blundstone.com/products/btough/ in particular the 006 style. You can call their office in Tasmania to find where they stock the boots. 

What is something I shouldn’t forget when travelling with 50 Degrees North?

If you are heading out on an expedition ship to the Arctic with us, a pair of binoculars, as polar bears and whales are often spotted in the vicinity.

Will I be able to do any laundry?

Most of the places we stay have laundry facilities, including our expedition ships. It is also a good idea to bring some ‘travel wash’, and a travel clothes line. This will help you cut down on packing space, and can be particularly useful if you are on a walking trip.

How much luggage can I take?

As a general rule, pack light, but bring all the essentials. Leave some space in your luggage – you’ll no doubt want to bring home some souvenirs from the places you visit. Each airline has specific rules for luggage allowances – check directly with the airline or ask your travel consultant.

What clothes and footwear should I take with me?

We always recommend travelling light, however, the specific requirements for your tour will vary widely depending on where and when you are travelling. Regardless of the time of year, pack a light fleece as evenings can be chilly particularly if you are by the sea. We suggest layers of clothing rather than heavy coats since no-one can predict the weather. If visiting above the Arctic Circle bring that extra jumper, snow jacket and raincoat for warmth just in case.

Bring good comfortable walking shoes for touring and sightseeing, especially for all those cobbled streets!

Can I purchase a City Card?

Close to everyone in Scandinavia speaks excellent English, and it is easy to get around, therefore, we recommend that a City Card is the best and most af­fordable way to experience these metropolitan cities. The Cards are available in each of these capitals and offer free public transport within the city limits, free entry to most museums and attraction, discounted tours, and many other benefits. Cards are available for 24, 48 and 72 hours.

Travelling with children

50 Degrees North welcomes children on our family designed trips. We tailor make trips for families as well. We pride ourselves in creating itineraries that offer something out of the ordinary, which will suit your individual needs. We understand the intricate details that make up a good family holiday and will weave this knowledge into designing your tour.

SPECIFIC TOUR INFORMATION

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How many people can join a tour?

We keep our group sizes low so you have the freedom to move around and get involved with your surroundings. This intimate size ensures that your group won't crowd your experience. You can expect anywhere from 12-16 travellers on a tour but the average is 10 with the exception of our ship-based (varies on each ship but maximum 100 on our expedition ship) and our private coach tours (approx. 25-30 passengers).

Who are my travelling companions?

While every group is different, 50 Degrees North tours are generally an international crowd, with travellers often from Australia and New Zealand, the UK and North America. Most people who travel with 50 Degrees North are in their 40s, 50s, 60s & 70s, although we see plenty of younger travellers as well.

Our tours appeal to a wide range of travellers, most of whom share an adventurous spirit and a desire to experience these destinations at an intimate level. Our tours are conducted in English and so they attract many travellers from North America, UK, Australia, New Zealand and Europe. Some of our expedition ships and private coach tours are bi-lingual tours, generally in English and German.

What are the age restrictions on your tours?

To travel independently you must be at least 18 years of age. There are no upper age limits on our tours however travellers with pre existing medical conditions are required to complete a medical questionnaire. Our standard (non-family) adventures are open to children aged 12 years or older when accompanied by a parent .

Can I join a tour late or leave it early?

It's extremely difficult if not impossible to join a tour after it has begun, particularly our small ship expedition voyages. It is possible to leave a tour early; however, you will be responsible for your own arrangements from the moment you decide to leave the tour. You would also be responsible for all costs associated with joining a tour late or leaving early. Please discuss the options with us.

Can I book extra nights hotel accommodation before or after my tour?

Yes, in most cases we can arrange additional accommodation at our starting or ending hotels. Just let us know and we’ll organise a quote for you. We also have trip extensions in many of the destinations we travel to – more details are on this website or contact us.

I’m a vegetarian or have special dietary needs, is that a problem?

No problem. Please let your tour guide know when you arrive. On expedition cruise boats we will cater for vegetarians and with the table service; you can request your specific requirements each day.

In some of our destinations, it is important to realise that your diet might be slightly limited, as meat often forms an integral part of the local diet. Strict vegetarians will find Japan, China and Mongolia hard to travel in, and they have little comprehension of vegetarianism. In Japan, seafood is an integral part of their cuisine and typically there will be a seafood ingredient in most vegetarian dishes.

How much free time is there?

All our tours are a combination of organised activities and free time. Our detailed day-to-day itineraries are online and give you an idea of how much free time to expect. Many of your most memorable experiences will occur when you branch out and do your own thing, so we know it’s important that you have time to yourself.

Who will be my leader?

This really depends on what type of tour you have booked with us. For instance, on an expedition ship in the Arctic and Antarctica, you will have an expedition leader who will look after you and also manage the logistics and planning of the trip. These expedition leaders also manage a team of local guides.

For most of our group tours, you will have a local tour guide who will escort you throughout your trip. Specific information about this will be in the trip notes for each tour, as they will all differ.

I am over 60 - am I too old for your trips?

50 Degrees North tours are designed for travellers of all ages assuming you are fit and healthy - and we take travellers from 12 to 80 (12-17 year olds must be accompanied by an adult). We think groups of mixed ages work well with great group dynamics and social interaction. The majority of travellers on 50 Degrees North trips are in the 40 to 70 age range.

While on my group trip can I add in an extra night or change the itinerary en route?

No. It is not possible to make any changes to our group trip itineraries. 50 Degrees North specialises in tailor made tours, as well as offering group tours. Please ask us if you wish to create your own personal tour which affords you more flexibility.

PRACTICALITIES ON TOUR

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How do I get to my hotel?

Our tours vary as to whether or not an airport transfers is included. Please check in the tour details section of the trip notes, or directly with us to find out. Most of our tours start in a specified hotel and we let you know exactly when you need to be at that hotel.

If you wish to arrange an airport transfer, please don’t hesitate to contact us. 

What sort of Electricity is there available to me?

The electric current across Scandinavia is 220V AC. Thick round ended two-pronged continental points are used. Most hotels have a limited supply of adaptors so we would recommend you take your own adaptor with you.

On our small ship expedition voyages, the power supply is 220v, 50Hz, with points as described above. Youmay need a transformer and international adapter for your particularequipment.

The electricity current in Russia is the same as Scandinavia. The electricity sockets are mainly standard European-size for double round-pin plugs hence appliances from Australia and New Zealand will need adaptors.

Japan, Mongolia and China require the North American/Japanese two point adaptor. Bring your European adaptors as well, as these can sometimes be found.

How can my family contact me while away?

If your family wants to contact you, leaving your tour details with them prior to your tour is advised. You will most likely have email and phone access throughout your trip. However, in more remote regions like Mongolia and Kamchatka it will be more difficult to connect quickly.

If you need to be contacted during your trip for an emergency, please ask your family to contact 50 Degrees North’s head office and we will assist you.

Will my mobile work overseas?

If you want to take your phone with you, there is a good chance that it will work in most major cities. Check with your service provider before you go if they have a reciprocal agreement with the countries you are travelling to, and make sure you remember to get international roaming turned on. Mobile sim cards are easy to buy in some regions, such as China, and are a convenient way of keeping in touch.

Can I get online whilst travelling?

Internet cafés are plentiful throughout much of the world, particularly in major cities – an internet email address and a webcam/phone account (such as Skype) are good ways of staying in touch.

On our small ship expedition voyagesyou can get e-mail access, however, the service costs approx. AUD$5 per e-mail sent.

Do I need an International Driving Permit for driving in Scandinavia?

You will need to hold a current drivers’ licence for driving in Scandinavia, Iceland and Russia. You will need this in order to hire a car and purchase insurance. If you would like to get an International Driving Permit, please check this website link below:

http://www.racv.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/Internet/Primary/travel/driving+overseas/international+driving+requirements

SAFETY AND MEDICAL ADVICE

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Do I need to let 50 Degrees North know of any pre-existing medical conditions?

It is also your responsibility to inform us of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability that could reasonably be expected to affect the normal conduct of the tour or expedition you are booking, as well as the enjoyment of other trip members. You may be asked to provide an evaluation of your medical condition and/or disability by a certified medical practitioner. 50 Degrees North reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to refuse your participation on a trip and/or cancel your booking, also after the commencement of your tour, with no right to refund, if your participation is likely to affect the normal operation of the tour or expedition, and the enjoyment of other participants. 

How can I stay warm and comfortable on my tour in cold regions?

• Avoid overdressing to reduce perspiration.

• Wear water repellent outer garments that will keep you dry on the outside and still “breathe” enough so that moisture from your body can escape.

• Body heat is most likely to be lost from parts that have a lot of surface area in comparison to total mass - namely, the hands and feet. Keep them warm and dry. For hands, mittens are better than gloves.

• Another polar maxim is “if you have cold feet, put a hat on!” If the rest of your body is covered, as much as 90% of the heat you lose can come from your head, so be sure to wear a beanie or balaclava. These items can be pulled down to protect your ears, forehead, neck and chin. The neck also needs protection with a woollen or synthetic scarf, which can be wrapped around the face when travelling against the wind.

• Dress in comfortable, loose layers. For anyone out in the cold, it is far better to wear layers of relatively light, loose clothing than one thick, heavy item. Between each layer there is a film of trapped air, which, when heated by your body, acts as an excellent insulator.

• Wool and silk are superior to cotton because they can trap warm air.

• Synthetic fabrics that spring back into shape after compression are also good. When damp or wet, polyester down is a better insulator than goose or duck down. Polar fleece is popular and recommended.

What will happen if I need some medical advice whilst on a tour or cruise?

Hotels can assist in arranging the service of a doctor or chemist. On our small ship expedition voyages it will be likely that a doctor is on board to assist with medical advice. If you are currently on prescribed medication sufficient supplies should be carried to last the duration of your journey. It may not be possible to replace prescriptions written outside of the country you are travelling in.

What vaccinations are recommended?

Immunisations vary from country to country but for most of Scandinavia and Japan, no special immunisations are required. For Russia, China and Mongolia, we strongly recommend you visit your local doctor or contact the Travellers Medical and Vaccination Centre (www.traveldoctor.com.au) to discuss health requirements for your trip. They will advise you about appropriate inoculations. Some vaccines need to be administered a few weeks before departure, so allow plenty of time. It is also important that you obtain a certificate of vaccination and that you carry this with you on your trip.

See: http://fiftydegreesnorth.com/pages/Vaccinations

Do I need to take any medical supplies?

We recommend you carry personal medical items for managing common minor ailments such as colds, diarrhoea, blisters and sore throats etc.  Travellers who take regular medication should take an appropriate supply. Asthma sufferers should ensure that they have an adequate supply of their routine medicine, as some major cities, particularly Beijing, have high levels of smog.

I am over 60 - do I need a medical certificate?

There are no age restrictions, but some tours do require medical certificates regardless of your age, e.g. our tours and voyages to Antarctica and the High Arctic.

Do I need travel insurance?

It is a mandatory requirement to have adequate travel insurance for participation on any of 50 Degrees North tours and/or expeditions. The travel insurance policy must cover; any medical expenses following accident, injury and/or death, including any related to pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability; third party risk insurance; emergency repatriation (including evacuation by air where applicable); and personal liability.  We also recommend that your travel insurance covers luggage insurance and cancellation insurance.

See: http://fiftydegreesnorth.com/pages/Travel_Insurance

In case of a medical problem arising during the tour or expedition, which results in costs for medical treatment, evacuation, use of aircraft or repatriation etc., the responsibility for payment of these costs lies solely with the passenger. If reasonably requested by 50 Degrees North, its representatives or the tour/expedition leader before the commencement of, or during your tour or expedition, you will need to show evidence that you hold adequate travel insurance. If valid travel insurance cannot be verified, we reserve the right to cancel or suspend your participation on a tour or expedition, also after its commencement. 

How fit do I need to be?

Our holidays are designed to be enjoyed by anyone who is reasonably fit. All tours are graded in various difficulty levels of depending on physical activity and technical skills required. These are our grade levels:

Easy (1) - Suitable for most people in good health. Activities and walking included, but not of a strenuous nature.  

Moderate (2) - Suitable for those in good health, who exercise regularly. Activity or walking in all kinds of terrain for 4 to 6 hours per day. Carry daypack only.

Strenuous (3) - Suitable for physically active people in good health, and who have some trekking and/or skiing experience in mountainous terrain.  Activity, trekking and/or skiing for 6 to 8 hours a day.  Carry daypack only.

Challenging (4) - Our challenging trips demand a good level of fitness and some endurance. A good level of trekking  and/or skiing experience is necessary.  Activity, trekking and/or skiing for 6 to 10 hours a day.  You may need to carry your own full pack. Mandatory health and fitness assessment is required.

Expedition (5) - Our Expedition grading requires a high level of stamina and endurance, as we visit areas with extreme weather and terrain. These expeditions often require specialist skills, sometimes of a technical nature.  Solid preparation is necessary, and mandatory pre departure gathering where we will assess your suitability for the expedition may be required.  You will carry your own full pack. Mandatory health and fitness assessment is required.

MONEY MATTERS

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What currencies will be used during my tour?

The monetary unit in Denmark (DKK), Sweden (SEK), Iceland (ISK) and Norway (NOK) is the Krone, although each of these hold a different value. These are different currencies, and surplus Krone can be frequently used in border towns as you pass through. Danish Krone (DKK) is the currency in Greenland. In Finland, Euros are used, and in Russia the currency is Ruble.

Within Asia, the currency of China is Yuan (CNY), also referred to as the Renminbi (RMB).  Mongolia has its own currency as well – the Tögrög (MNT) with no coins. Japan used the Yen (JPY).

A good website to refer to before you travel is the http://www.xe.com/ to adapt your currency to the places you are visiting. Perhaps writing a small summary of the different exchange rates will help when you arrive.

If you are visiting Antarctica or the Arctic with 50 Degrees North, you are most likely to be using US Dollars or an account prepared as you arrive on board. This varies with each ship and details will be in the trip notes.

What is the best way to take money with me?

A combination of cash, an ATM card and perhaps a credit card, as back-up is good. Travellers cheques are a safe way to carry money, however travellers can find it difficult in some areas to exchange them. And remember to check with your bank about using your bank cards overseas.

Is 50 Degrees north financially secure?

Yes. 50 Degrees North started in 2010 and is independently owned by Scandinavians with a strong financial background. 50 Degrees North is a full member of the Travel Compensation Fund and holds a full travel agency licence (no.: 32937).   

What happens to my money when I pay for my trip?

When 50 Degrees North receives your trip payment from you or via your travel agent, the funds are deposited into a ‘Client Trust Account’. The money stays in this account until we are obliged to pay our suppliers and hoteliers, which is usually 30 days prior to your trip departure.  The reason is that in the unlikely event of 50 Degrees North ever going broke, your money is still safe and you would get it back in full. The 50 Degrees North ‘Client Trust Account’ is independently audited every year in accordance with Australia's Travel Compensation Fund (TCF) standards. The TCF is a legislated body governing the licensing and operation of travel agents in Australia. Failure to meet financial criteria reflecting the financial viability of a travel agent results in revocation of the agent's licence to trade. 50 Degrees North is licensed under these arrangements.

Is my travel agent financially secure?

If you are using a travel agent, it is your responsibility to ensure that the agent is licensed and financially sound. This is important as the agent may hold your money before sending it to us for your trip.

Is tipping included and if not, how much should I budget?

Tips are not included in the tour price and tipping is entirely at your discretion.

In Scandinavia, Greenland, Iceland, Faroe Islands and Finland, tipping is not common - all service bills that you receive already include gratuity, and it is unnecessary (but always appreciated) to add a tip. Taxi drivers are not typically tipped and coatroom attendants and porters charge fixed rates. At restaurants it is, however, customary to leave a small tip. Check the menu or the final bill for "tip included / not included" to make sure how much you should give.

In Russia tipping has become expected in restaurants. A suitable amount is 10% depending on the service received. Tipping in Japan and Mongoliais not generally viewed as part of the culture and as such is not expected.

However, in China, tipping is rather more complicated. If you are happy with the services provided a tip is appropriate, though not compulsory. Porters may offer to carry your bag to the room and we suggest approx. US$1 per bag. Please don’t tip with coins or small, dirty or ripped notes as this is considered an insult. Tipping in restaurants, however, is not common practice at restaurants in China.

ARRIVING HOME

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How can I give feedback about my tour?

We believe that speaking directly to people is the best way possible to find out about your travels and experiences. If you would like to give us direct or indirect feedback, please either call us on 1300 422 821 or email us through our website, and we can call you back. It would be our pleasure.

What if I have a complaint?

In the unlikely event that you should have a complaint about your tour, expedition or services offered by 50 Degrees North we urge you to bring this up with our staff, the tour/expedition leader or company representative immediately so that we can attempt to rectify the issue. If at the end of the tour or expedition your feel that your complaint as not been adequately dealt with you must notify us in writing no later than 30 days after the end date of the services 50 Degrees North has provided.

How can I become employed with 50 Degrees North?

We would love to hear from you if you are interested in working with 50 Degrees North. We are a growing company, determined to provide our guests with the best possible experience, one that we would want to have ourselves. We can be contacted via our website for details regarding current vacancies.