Travel Terms… What is ???
Sometimes when we have been doing business for many years, certain terms or wording become our normal. I am glad that some folks remind me that perhaps new travelers don’t have a clue what I’m referring to when I use terms that are new to you! So, here is my attempt at defining some
frequently used terms that have generated questions from our travelers.
Checked Bag – This is the bag you pack with all your belongings for the duration of the trip. It is the bag that is stored in the bays below the bus or checked in at the airport.
You do not have access to this bag during the travel days. The checked bag (1 per person) will be taken to your room when luggage handling is included in the price of the trip.
Carry-on Bag – This is the smaller bag that you have with you on the bus or on the airplane that holds items you may need during the course of the day: medications, snacks, a camera, magazine, book, phone charger, etc. You will carry your small bag to your room. Airplane carry-on sizes are not
the same as a bus carry-on size.
Trip prices are a “per person” rate based on the type of room you choose:
Double occupancy – a hotel room for 2 people; can be one bed or two.
Single occupancy – a hotel room for 1 person. This does not mean an additional bus seat. Generally, it can be an additional $75.00 per person per day if someone wants 2 seats on the bus as we travel.
Triple occupancy – a hotel room where three people share the same room. It is generally 2 queen or 2 double beds, so 2 people share a bed. There is not generally space to bring in a roll-away bed. Generally 3 people know each other and are comfortable with this arrangement. This option is not always available such as on cruise ships or in Europe.
TSA – TSA officially stands for Transportation Security Administration and they set the standards / guidelines for travel. TSA can also refer to the individuals who search your
bags and guide you through security at the airports.
ABA – ABA stands for American Bus Association. They sponsor the large national travel conference I attend each winter to gain new insights into travel destinations and make face to face contacts with suppliers, hotels, restaurants, venues to attend, etc.
VISA – a requirement to enter some countries. We will assist with getting these for you when you are on a trip with Ann’s Adventures that requires a visa.
Included Meals: Meals are generally included in the price of the trip and typically includes the entrée, non-alcoholic beverage and tax and tip.
Meal options: Many times we schedule different types of meals on the trips. These descriptions are to help you decide if you can accept this arrangement or if it will suit your particular diet. For instance catered meals in specific places are generally the same meal for everyone and that is the only item available. There is not necessarily a kitchen available with multiple choices.
Scatter lunch: This is when the bus stops in an area where there are three or more places where individuals can get a lunch on their own. This allows people some variety in the choices of their meal and more available restrooms. This is generally when we are traveling. This could also be a food court at a mall.
Plated meal: A plated meal is when the meal is brought to your table and served.
Buffet: This meal type is when you are directed to a line and choose the items from the choices on the buffet that you’d like to eat.
Limited Menu: This is often a “plated meal” where there are three to five choices for individuals to select from in order to make it easier for a restaurant to get the meals out efficiently for a large group. I generally try to offer a beef, fish, chicken and vegetarian option when possible.
Catered: A catered meal is often an opportunity to enjoy a provided meal outside of the normal restaurant venue. We’ve had catered meals at museums, boats, picnics, trains, etc. It is often the same meal for everyone and not always a variety of options.
Off menu: This is when a restaurant determines they have enough staff and the ability to fill each individual request and everyone orders their personal choice for their meal.
Regarding alcoholic beverages: Generally alcoholic beverages are at the discretion of each individual and the individual pays for their own as well as tax and tip on the drink.
“On Your Own” a meal or activity that is not included in the trip cost so the choice and cost is your responsibility.