FAQ
MARQUIS Discoveries
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you wanted to know before you go
Planning & Booking Your Journey
1How do I begin planning a custom tour with MARQUIS Discoveries?
Start by reaching out to our travel planning team. We’ll listen to your dreams, goals, group needs, and budget. Then we’ll build a custom itinerary that brings your story to life — turning ideas into an unforgettable, well-executed adventure.
2Can you help us promote our tour to a group?
Absolutely. We build a personalized promotional slide deck and can present your tour virtually or in person. We also create shareable teaser itineraries to generate excitement and interest.
3How do payments work?
All payments are handled through our secure online portal. We accept credit card and ACH bank transfers. You can also log and track manual payments here. Payment schedules are typically spread out — from two weeks post-presentation to 60 days before travel.
4Is my personal data secure?
Yes. Your information is encrypted and only shared with trusted partners (such as hotels, airlines, or consulates) when required by the itinerary. We are deeply committed to protecting your privacy.
The Portal & Travel Tools
1What can I do in the MARQUIS Portal?
Our custom portal is your tour’s control center. Here, you can:
- Submit personal information securely (passport, dietary needs, emergency contacts).
- Track payments and payment history.
- Upload travel documents, such as visa and passport scans.
- Access the full itinerary and required forms (like minor travel authorizations).
- Communicate with the group leader and MARQUIS staff.
2How do I handle visa requirements?
Each traveler is responsible for checking and obtaining the necessary visas based on their nationality and circumstances, especially if traveling with a service animal. We’re happy to assist with supporting documentation or clarifications on a case-by-case basis.
At the Airport & On the Road
1Where do I meet my tour escort?
Typically at baggage claim, just after your flight arrival. Your escort will be easy to spot — often holding a MARQUIS Discoveries sign and ready to welcome you.
2What is a tour escort?
Your tour escort is your logistical wizard and travel companion. They manage pacing, troubleshoot challenges, handle check-ins, ensure seamless transitions, count participants, coordinate with local partners, and bring your group together. They work hard — often behind the scenes — to keep everything smooth, safe, and joyful.
3Are we on the bus the whole time?
Not at all! Our tours are built around immersive experiences. The motorcoach is your comfortable ride between destinations, but we prioritize time off the bus exploring, learning, and living the story.
Accommodations & Meals
1What are the hotels like?
We select clean, comfortable, and well-located 3–4 star hotels with authentic charm. Rooming is generally gender-separated, and when possible, we keep groups on separate floors. International hotels often request passport copies (or originals) upon check-in.
Additional Night Security in North America is available upon the group leaders request.
2What meals are included?
• Breakfast is typically in a private group space, though occasionally in the hotel’s public area.
• Lunch is often on your own abroad, but included in most U.S. tours.
• Dinners are hearty, regional, and balanced — beverages are extra unless otherwise stated.
3What should I know about dining customs abroad?
Water and beverages are usually not complimentary outside the U.S., so plan accordingly. Always bring small cash for tipping, particularly at included meals.
Tickets, Admissions & Activities
1What are MARQUIS Hours?
These are exclusive access times we negotiate with partners to visit venues outside standard hours. It allows for more intimate, enriching experiences and helps maximize your itinerary.
2Who are step-on guides?
Local experts who join your group at specific locations to bring their region’s culture and history to life. We carefully select our partners for quality, personality, and insight.
Accessibility & Special Accommodations
1Do you accommodate travelers with disabilities?
Yes. We’re committed to making our tours accessible wherever possible. Please indicate any mobility, medical, dietary, or sensory needs when registering on the portal. This allows us to make necessary arrangements and ensure a smooth journey.
2Can I bring a mobility device (e.g., scooter, wheelchair)?
We welcome mobility devices, but if yours is powered by a lithium battery, we must be informed well in advance to ensure proper transportation arrangements and legal compliance.
3What about service animals?
We allow certified service animals, but not emotional support animals. If you are traveling with a service animal, you are responsible for checking country-specific requirements and informing us early so we can help with arrangements when possible.
Travel Documents
1How long does my passport need to be valid?
We recommend a minimum of 6 months validity from your return date. While some countries may require only 3 months, many visa processes need 6.
2Do I need to carry visa or ID copies?
Yes. Upload them to the portal in advance, and carry a hard copy during travel. It can be vital if your documents are lost or authorities request confirmation.
What to Bring
1What’s in the MARQUIS Essentials Pack?
Each traveler receives a drawstring bag containing:
• Red luggage tag (for easy group ID)
• Branded sunglasses
• Poncho
• Pen
• Neck wallet with your name (for smoother check-ins and group management)
2Can I carry cash?
We recommend carrying a small amount of local currency in low denominations for tips and minor expenses. Otherwise, use your preloaded MARQUIS VISA travel card — personalized, safer, and accepted widely.
3Can I bring snacks?
Yes! Touring days can be long. Bringing personal snacks and a reusable water bottle is encouraged.
4Can I bring a pet?
No pets are allowed, except service animals.
Tipping Guidelines
1What are the recommended tips?
Tipping Guidelines
Role Student Tip Per Day Adult Tip Per Day
Driver $2–$4 $5–$7
Step-On Guide $2–$3 $4–$5
Tour Escort $3–$5 $8–$10
Where gratuities are included in your tour package. Extra tips are appreciated but not required.
Fun Extras
1What’s with the red luggage tag?
Our red tag makes your bag easy for our team to spot and grab quickly at airports and hotels.
2Why do you love sunglasses pictures?
We celebrate adventure — and sunglasses are part of our fun vibe! Send us your favorite photo wearing your MARQUIS sunglasses and you could win our annual best sunglasses photo prize and be featured on our website.
Toilets Abroad
1What should I know?
In many countries:
• Toilet paper goes in a bin, not the toilet.
• Toilets may be “squat-style” rather than seated.
• Always carry some tissues and hand sanitizer, just in case.
Travel Protection
1What should I know?
All MARQUIS Discoveries travelers are automatically covered by a basic travel protection plan. However, we strongly recommend a standard policy or upgrading to a Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) policy for greater peace of mind.
We partner with Trip Mate and Travel Insured International, depending on the type of trip you’re taking. You can compare coverage, get quotes, and purchase enhanced protection directly through links on our website — seamlessly connected to our trusted partners.
Travel protection helps guard against the unexpected — from trip interruptions to medical emergencies and is an essential part of confident, stress-free travel.
Airline E-Tickets & Known Traveler Numbers
1What should I know?
Flight e-tickets are held by your group leader and distributed prior to travel or at the airport. You will not need to retrieve them on your own.
If you have a Known Traveler Number (KTN) for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry, please share it with your group leader as early as possible so we can include it when issuing your ticket.
Please note:
Hotel points and airline miles are not awarded for group reservations.
If you are a loyalty program member, you’re welcome to provide your number, but we cannot guarantee point accrual through group bookings.
Stay in the Loop
Be the first to hear about new destinations, limited-time offers, travel tips, and behind-the-scenes stories from our global adventures.
Whether you’re dreaming of your next escape or just love the inspiration—our newsletter brings the world to your inbox.
