Travel Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Trip Details
How does Scientific American Travel differ from other group travel programs?
Built on Scientific American’s mission to bring the most important research and ideas to life, our trips are inspired by the science that inspires us. The Scientific American editorial team works with our travel partners to select destinations and curate itineraries that enrich exploration with insight, that immerse you in science, history and culture for a unique and thrilling learning experience.

Does an expert join every trip? Will the expert be a Scientific American editor?
Yes! Each trip is guided by an expert, usually a Scientific American editor. When that isn’t possible, we draw from our worldwide network of scientists, researchers, academics, authors, institutional leaders and other professionals. With years of experience in their fields, our experts bring not only invaluable insight, but also their passion for sharing knowledge and ideas.

How do I reserve my spot?
A deposit, generally ranging from $500-$1000, is due to secure your space on the tour. The amount of the deposit is specified on the tour page. Deposits are 50% refundable up to 120 days prior to departure (unless otherwise specified).

When do I need to pay for my trip?
Your deposit is due upon reservation. Your final balance is due upon receipt of your invoice, 90 days prior to departure. If you are making a reservation within 90 days of the trip’s departure, full payment will be required upon confirmation of your reservation.

How big will the group be?
Our trips generally have a maximum group size of approximately 25 people. Our groups are large enough for you to meet people with diverse backgrounds, but small enough to be on a first-name basis with everyone.

Are solo travelers welcome?
Of course! There are always a good number of solo travelers on our trips, and they are welcomed with open arms. Group meals generally take place at medium to large tables, and our Travel Directors ensure that everyone is included in conversation. Because our trips are priced for doubles sharing a room, there is a supplemental cost for those who choose not to share.

How much free time should I expect to have?
Our trips are designed to give our travelers special insight and understanding of the places we visit. The talks and commentary by our hosts and local guides, in addition to time set aside for writing and reflection, are what make our itineraries special, and this kind of curated experience cannot be obtained on one’s own. For this reason, our trips generally do not incorporate long periods of free time during the day, although evenings and some meals will be at leisure.

Can I arrive early, or stay on after the tour ends?
Yes, absolutely! If you wish to arrive early at the first hotel on the itinerary or stay on at the last hotel, our Guest Services Advisors will be happy to advise you on the best way to make arrangements.

What do I need to bring on my trip?
We'll send you a detailed clothing and equipment list well before departure so you know what you'll need to pack. We provide the rest: comfortable accommodations, an engaging daily itinerary, expert trip management, and access to people and places that will thrill and delight you.

Once I reserve my trip, what happens next?
After you reserve your trip and pay your deposit, you will be sent a confirmation email with our Terms and Conditions, insurance information, and a Traveler Information Form. Your Guest Services Advisor will reach out when it’s time to book airfare after a minimum of 10 travelers have enrolled on your departure. About 4-5 months before departure, you will receive a link to a pre-departure website that includes all logistical information as well as suggested readings from your trip expert. Final trip details will be sent roughly 2-3 weeks before departure.

Rates and Cancellation Information
Are tips included?
All tips are included except for the ship crew on cruise tours. For cruises, recommended guidelines will be provided for tipping the ship crew. Tips to local guides, hotel staff, restaurant staff, bell staff, and drivers are all included in the trip price. Your Trip Leader and Travel Director are taken care of and will not accept tips. The only other time tips are not included is during free time and meals on your own.

Are drinks included?
In general, house wine, beer and soft drinks are included in the trip price for all group meals unless otherwise specified on the trip page. Any additional alcoholic beverages are not included in the program price. Any exceptions to this general rule are noted on individual trip pages. Non-alcoholic beverages are included in all meals.

Is airfare included?
Airfare to and from the starting and ending point of the program is not included in the price in order to give you maximum flexibility in choosing your preferences for air travel. This way you can use frequent flier upgrades, depart from your airport of choice, or add pre- and post- trip extensions with no constraints. Please refrain from booking your airfare until your Guest Services Advisor reaches out to confirm your departure.

What is your cancellation policy?
All cancellations must be submitted in writing (email: reservations@academic-travel.com or fax: 1-202-349-0678) to Academic Travel Abroad, Inc. (ATA). Per person cancellation fees are based on the date of the cancellation notice reaching ATA. Deposits will be 50% refundable 120 days prior to departure. Cancellation between 119-91 days before departure: 100% of deposit is forfeited. Cancellation between 90-61 days, 50% of the Trip price is forfeited. Cancellation within 60 days of departure: no refund. Cancellation of program by ATA: full refund.

Health & Safety
Are you able to accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies?
Every effort will be made to try to accommodate any special dietary requests you may have (e.g., low salt, vegetarian or vegan). Please discuss your requests with us when signing up for a trip.

What are the physical requirements of this trip?
Travelers should be in good health and able to walk up to 2 miles (with stops) over uneven terrain and be able to navigate stairs unassisted. In city centers, we do try to walk from place to place due to traffic restrictions and also in keeping with our commitment to environmental sustainability.

Do I need trip insurance?
We strongly suggest purchasing travel insurance to help protect your investment and provide you with financial recourse in the event of trip cancellation or interruption due to sickness or quarantine. When purchasing a policy, please consult with a trip insurance agent to review what COVID-19-related contingencies are covered. While we will do our best to recover any unused portion of your trip due to sickness, it is often the case that payments cannot be refunded. We recommend using our partner insurance provider, Travel Insurance Services, which offers three different policies for you to choose from.

What happens if I get sick on tour?
Our top priority is to keep our travelers, staff, and the communities we visit as healthy and safe as possible. Not only do we care about your well-being, but illness on tour alters the group dynamic, diverts staff attention, and interrupts the smooth functioning of the trip. For this reason, we recommend that all travelers to stay up to date with recommended vaccinations. Additionally, we encourage traveling with a mask and notifying your Tour Director immediately should you feel any symptoms of illness.