Frequently Asked Tour Questions

Q: Why is the down payment due so early?
A: With any large party, it is better to book flight reservations early. In order to secure seats at the advertised price, reservations must be made 11 months in advance.

Q: Is my down payment refundable if I can no longer attend?
A: Any cancelations made in writing prior to September 25th will be eligible to receive $150 of your down payment back. The remainder will pay for airline fees associated with a cancellation.

Q: If I have already made payments toward the trip, but can no longer attend, will I get a refund?
A: You are eligible to get a refund up to 60 days before the departure date. The following is the tour cancellation schedule:
Before December 18, 2009: $150 cancellation fee
On or after December 18, 2009: $300 cancellation fee
On or after January 17, 2010: 15% of your total tour package cost cancellation fee
On or after February 16, 2010: 30% of your total tour package cost cancellation fee
On or after March 18, 2010: 50% of your total tour package cost cancellation fee
On or after April 17, 2010: 75% of your total tour package cost cancellation fee
On or after May 2, 2010: 100% of your total tour package cost cancellation fee

Q: What are the responsibilities of a chaperone and who is eligible?
A: Chaperones have an extra responsibility of supervising a group of 6-10 students for the entire length of the tour. This includes sitting together at meal times, staying together at all tourist site destinations, bed checks at night and actively participating in all student activities. Most often parents will enjoy the trip more with the added freedom provided in the Parent/Donor package. Download chaperone duties here.

Q: Are there any costs in addition to the advertised fee?
A: You will be responsible for additional meals you may want (usually lunch), costs associated with obtaining a passport and visa (usually about $110), and money for souvenirs.

Q: Can I purchase tour insurance for my trip?
A: If you would like to purchase additional health insurance during your trip, our tour agency has recommended the following companies for tour insurance:
Access America
Travel Guard
Insure My Trip

Q: What about my instrument?
A: Most instruments will be carry-on luggage. Some larger instruments can be packed securely and go as checked baggage. YOSA intends to rent percussion and bass instruments. There is no additional charge for students with instruments which need to be rented.

Q: Will there be fundraising activities?
A: YOSA parents are strongly encouraged to lead fundraising activities. We will meet in September to discuss ideas and opportunities for parents and students to get involved.

Q: What travel documents will I need?
A: Everyone traveling outside of the country must have a passport. In addition, you will need to apply for a visa. YOSA will apply for a group visa approximately two months before our departure date. It is cheaper to get a group visa than an individual visa, so we recommend you wait.

Q: How much luggage can I bring?
A: Each passenger is allowed one suitcase of 50 lbs. or less. (Dimensions: height + width + depth measurements adding up to no more than 62"). Each passenger can bring one carry-on (violin, small backpack, etc.) with total measurements of 45" and no more than 40 lbs. In addition, passengers are allowed one personal item (purse, computer bag, small backpack). We encourage you to leave things at home which you will not need. Books, larger electronics, etc. are bulky and may not fit under the seats in the bus.

Please call us in the office if you have additional questions. We will be happy to answer them. (210) 737-0097