CIE Tours International Frequently Asked Questions

• How can I book my CIE Tours’ vacation with TouringForLess.com?

  Simply find the CIE Tour you would like and request a Quick Quote. You will receive an email with a link to review your quote and purchase the tour.
  If you prefer, you may call our office direct at 1-888-751-4440.

• Are prices guaranteed?

  CIE guarantees that no increase in land costs will occur, once you have paid the deposit for your tour. This is your protection against international currency fluctuations. Once you pay airfare in full and CIE issues your e-ticket, there is no change in the cost of the e-ticket, even if airfares rise later.

• What travel documents do I need to visit Ireland or Britain?

  If you are a U.S. or Canadian citizen, the only travel document you need is a valid passport.

• Why should I purchase travel protection?

  To protect you, your loved ones, your possessions and your travel investment. If you experience health problems, flight delays or stolen possessions, you will receive reimbursement. CIE Tours offers a great trip cancellation waiver benefit.

• How much luggage can I take?

  On coach tours, CIE Tours permits one piece of luggage and a carry-on bag per person. (We provide a carry-on back pack for coach tour clients.) Airlines have their own regulations and some carriers charge for any checked baggage.

• How early can I check into the hotel on day of arrival?

  You may check into rooms between 1:00 pm and 3:00 pm, depending on the hotel policy. As transatlantic flights generally arrive in Britain or Ireland early in the day, this can mean a wait at the hotel when the hotel has been heavily booked the night before. Or you may use this time to take a walk, have a snack or do a little exploring.

• Does CIE offer triple rooms?

  CIE does not feature triple rooms in their brochure because there is no reduction in cost for a third person sharing a room with two others. European hotel rooms tend to be smaller than North American rooms and contain a double and single bed or two double beds. For comfort, CIE suggests that adults take a twin room and a single room.

• What about travel times on a coach tour?

  Morning departure time depends on the itinerary to be covered on any particular day. In Britain departures are 8:00 am to 8:30 am, while in Ireland the coach usually leaves at 8:30 am to 9:00 am. Arrival at the next hotel is usually between 4:00 and 5:00 pm.

• What’s a typical coach touring day?

  CIE wants you to see as much of the country you are visiting as possible without spending all of your time on the coach. CIE generally incorporates a sightseeing feature each morning and afternoon. And there are breaks at two-hour intervals or less so that you may stretch your legs, purchase a snack or lunch, take photos, smoke and avail of restrooms.

• Will I be able to take walks or exercise?

  Many of CIE's tours incorporate walking tours in interesting places such as Derry, Cobh, York, and Edinburgh. These are leisurely-paced guided walks. You will have free time when you arrive at a hotel in the afternoon so you may like to take a walk on your own or use the hotel’s leisure or spa facilities. Pack comfortable shoes with non-slip soles as many historic places have uneven paving.

• What is a table d’hote dinner?

  It’s a 4- or 5-course meal with a choice of appetizers, soups, entrees and desserts. Most hotels feature a good assortment of red and white meats, fish and vegetarian foods. If you have certain tastes or dietary restrictions, ask the restaurant for what you need.

• Why does CIE offer independent transfers in London

  As there are so many different flights into both Heathrow and Gatwick Airports, it is not possible to have CIE personnel greet all clients on arrival. Therefore, with your final travel documents CIE includes vouchers for an airport transfer coach service.

• How much money do I need to carry?

  As most components of your tour have been prepaid, you will need money for lunch each day and dinners when you have an evening at leisure. Are you an avid shopper? Do you like a cocktail in the evening? These costs are up to you. Also, it is customary to tip your guide and driver at the end of the tour. Use credit cards and ATMs to avoid carrying a lot of cash.

• Would a coach tour be suitable for a honeymoon trip?

  After arranging a wedding, many newly-married couples choose CIE's programs as they are happy to have their honeymoon planned for them.

• Are there any free days for activities?

  All of the CIE tours are carefully planned with attractive sightseeing every day. However, on tours with 2-night stays, you may choose not to travel on a day tour and pursue your own interests.

• Can I combine a coach tour with a second coach tour?

  Many of CIE International's coach tours are ideally suited for combining and they offer a discount on the second tour.