Frequently Asked Questions

We focus on crafting unique travel experiences that we ourselves would love. Our experiences are engaging and memorable, with a focus on exploration and discovery. Our extensive experience traveling to unique destinations enables us to create one-of-a-kind experiences for our travelers.

Here's how we're different:

• Unique Experiences: Gain insider access to exclusive locations and experiences.
• Freedom and Flexibility: While we offer a structured itinerary, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to explore on your own.
• No Boring Tours: We avoid big tour buses and large groups with impersonal tours. Instead, we focus on intimate, engaging experiences.
• Women’s Only Ultra Luxury Experiences: We offer special tours designed exclusively for women, providing a unique space for camaraderie and shared adventures, relaxation and space to find self..

We strive to attract like-minded travelers who are curious and easy-going and who want to explore and learn as well as enjoy themselves while traveling.

At Masterfully Planned Experiences, we welcome all kinds of travelers. Our trips are perfect for forever-curious people, explorers, and open-minded individuals. Whether you're a student of the world, an easy-going adventurer, or someone looking to broaden your horizons, you'll find a place with us. We embrace all genders and welcome friends, families, and solo travelers alike. We strive to create a community that shares a passion for authentic, enriching travel experiences.

As you travel on a group trip you will be exposed to all the pleasures and maybe some of the frustrations of traveling in a group. Your fellow travelers will probably come from all corners of the world and likely a range of age groups too. We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group - patience with your fellow travelers is sometimes required for the benefit of everyone's travel experience. Remember too that you have responsibilities to the group. If you are requested to be at a place at a certain time, ensure that you don't keep the rest of the group waiting. We have found time and time again that the very best trips we operate are those where the dynamics within the group work well - this takes just a little effort on your part.

Due to privacy reasons, we are unable to provide you with contact details and any personal information about your fellow travelers booked on your trip prior to departure or a few weeks in advance with travelers consent. Many trips will have a private Facebook group set up prior to the trip, which you can choose to participate in or not.

You acknowledge that group travel requires an open mindset and flexibility. Changes can occur due to uncontrolled circumstances, and times are generally guidelines unless bound by transportation needs or timed entry to an activity. MPE makes every effort to adhere to the planned itinerary, but exact times may vary. Should you miss an assigned departure time, entry to an activity, or other scheduled events, it will be your responsibility to meet the group at the next location at your own expense, whether that is a new city, town, or planned activity.

We ask you read our MPE Travel Pledges to endure you align with our mission: Not everyone can be an MPE traveler. We carefully vet our travelers as we do our itineraries. Everyone must agree to the MPE Pledges on our client intake form for responsible, respectful travel :

• You pledge to approach my travels with both curiosity and a good sense of humor.
• You commit to being a considerate guest and ensuring that you leave every place as you found it, if not better.
• You will make every effort to be punctual or, if necessary, cover your own costs to rejoin the group.
• You agree to address concerns  with the tour leader in a timely, private, and respectful manner. (i.e., you will not voice complaints publicly)
• You recognize that travel demands patience, a positive outlook, and the ability to adapt to the unexpected. If you are unable to enjoy this you will choose to stay home.
• You will avoid discussing politics where the group can hear, to maintain a harmonious travel environment.

All group trips are accompanied by one of our group leaders. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. 

Your trip director or host leader will provide information on the places you are traveling. We aim to support local guides who have specialized knowledge of the regions we visit. When not already included in your trip, your leader will be able to recommend a local guide service who can share more detailed or specialized information at specific sites should you be interested in delving deeper.

Although our headquarters are in Boston, MA, we warmly welcome travelers from all corners of the USA and around the globe to join our travel experiences. You're welcome to join our trips regardless of your citizenship or place of origin. Just keep in mind that visa requirements for the countries we visit can differ depending on your citizenship.

We warmly welcome solo travelers on our trips. Whether you're embarking on a personal journey or simply prefer traveling alone, you'll find a supportive and friendly environment with us. Our group trips are designed to foster camaraderie and connection, ensuring you feel right at home. Join us and make lasting friendships with fellow adventurers who share your passion for authentic travel experiences. Don't hesitate to embark on this journey solo – you'll never truly be alone.

The beauty of our style of travel is that it caters to travelers who are traveling solo and who want to meet and share experiences with like-minded people.

On our trips rooming is organized on a twin-share basis, when requested and if available. We DO NOT pair up solo travelers with another traveler until the two travelers have talked and made an agreement to share. If we do NOT have a second solo traveler wishing to share, the individual who booked a shared room is FULLY responsible for the cost of a single room when the booking calendar closes, 90 days prior to the trip, or decides to cancel their booking. We make no exceptions to this policy. 

You acknowledge that if you have paid for and chosen to share a room and wish to make a change once the trip commences, any costs associated with securing an additional room will be your sole responsibility. MEP and their suppliers will make every attempt to help secure additional accommodations, but no guarantee is made, nor will MEP or their suppliers bear any costs associated with this change request.

As a responsible tour operator, we strive to create a safe and inclusive environment for everyone. In the case that your gender identity differs from what is indicated on your passport, please contact us so that we can discuss rooming options with you.

We also have an optional single supplement available on most trips for travelers who prefer to have their own room. Please note that this only applies to accommodation during the tour. Pre-trip and post-trip accommodation booked through us will be on a single room basis.

Some of our trips may only be available for shared occupancy (always 2 beds) or single occupancy, this will be noted on the specific trip pages.

Most of our experiences are designed for adults 18 years and older.  Some experiences with a focus on wine or alcohol do require travelers to be 21 years and older.  Age restrictions will be stated on each trip sales page.  

To book a trip, click the “Book Now” button located either at the top or bottom of the trip itinerary page. Then, fill out the booking form provided on the website. Alternatively, you can email us at info@mpe.world, and we'll assist you with the booking process.

If the travel experience you're interested in is sold out, don't worry! You can join the waitlist by clicking the “Join Waitlist” button. As spots become available, we'll offer them to those on the waitlist in the order they joined. Additionally, a version of many of our trips will be offered again in the future, so be sure to watch out for new trip announcements in our newsletter.

While MPE does not offer dedicated family only experiences at this time, families are always welcome to join our regular experiences, unless noted in the itinerary. Guests 18 years of age or older can participate in any MPE trip. Additionally, we can design private group travel experiences tailored for families, multigenerational groups, or group-family travel. This allows you to create a customized itinerary that suits your family's needs. Our private trip rates vary based on group size and availability. Please contact us if you're interested in exploring this option for your family.

Each travel experience is guaranteed once we have a minimum group size stated on the trip-specific itinerary page. If the group size is smaller than that, we'll make every effort to run the trip below the minimum, but it may not be guaranteed. If we have to cancel a trip you've booked due to under-enrollment, we'll provide a full refund or assist you in transferring to another date.

Private trips are tailor-made departures exclusively for you, your friends, or your family, utilizing the existing group itinerary for that destination. Costs may vary from the advertised price based on group size and travel dates, with special deposit and cancellation terms applying. While not all trips are available for private booking, if there's one you're interested in, please reach out to us at info@mpe.world.

 Additionally, we offer custom trip planning services to meet your specific needs. For more details, please contact us directly, or visit our private travel page on this website.

Our itineraries are updated regularly throughout the year based on customer feedback and to reflect the current situation in each destination. Due to weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, political unrest or other factors, further changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in-country. Your group leader or local representative will keep you up to date with any such changes once your trip is underway, life happens and some things are simply out of our control.

What you need to bring will vary according to the trip style you have chosen, the countries you are visiting and when you are traveling. We recommend you pack as lightly as possible, ensuring that you are able to carry and lift your own luggage and walk with it for short distances or up or down a flight of stairs. Help will be on hand in most locations, but there may be times you need to handle your own luggage, for example in airports and train stations.

A lockable suitcase with wheels is ideal for our trips, unless otherwise noted. It is recommended that you keep your main luggage weight around 15kg/35lbs and certainly no more than 20kg/45lbs. A small or medium-sized backpack is another good option, for a carry-on.

You'll also need a day pack/bag to carry water, camera, jacket, etc. when you’re exploring during the day. A crossbody is an excellent option when traveling in busy areas.

No, our trips do not include the cost of airfare. Each trip page features 'arrival and departure' information that outlines the most convenient airports for the specific trip. Travelers are responsible for arranging their own flights.

We recommend if you are planning on booking your airfare more then 90 days in advance, or before we have contacted to you confirm the trip is FULLY sold, that you understand your airlines cancellation, refund policy and/or cover your flight with trip cancellation coverage.

If you would like assistance booking international flights for your trip please indicate that on our client intake form. MPE’s Flight Desk will work with you to arrange the best options. Our international flight management fee is USD $100.00 + per ticket.

We suggest making arrangements with Global Rescue, a leading emergency medical assistance and evacuation provider for travelers. Their team is available 24/7 to advise on minor issues, such as:

• Connecting you (free of charge) with a travel-medicine specialist for minor issues like a sore throat or headache.
• Arranging visits to approved local medical facilities if you need in-person care.
• Helping if you lose your passport.

• Travel Insurance: All travelers participating in Masterfully Planned Events are STRONGLY ENCOURAGED to have travel insurance before the trip begins. 

• Coverage Requirements: The travel insurance must cover specific aspects, including personal injury, medical treatment, repatriation, evacuation expenses (including helicopter rescue and air ambulance internationally). Additionally, it is recommended that the insurance also addresses personal property and trip cancellation coverage.

• Importance of Trip Cancellation Insurance: Trip cancellation insurance is emphasized as it may be the only means of receiving reimbursement for non-refundable expenses (e.g., flights, hotels, tours, experiences etc.) all of which are paid in advance of of the trip. If the trip is canceled, postponed, interrupted, or rescheduled for any reason, whether voluntarily or involuntary by the traveler or as a result of Masterfully Planned Events's actions for under enrolled trip, or Force Majeure.

• Understanding Your Policy: Travelers are responsible for understanding the specifics of their travel insurance policy. They should ensure that their policy covers all optional and included activities listed in the trip itinerary and check for exclusion clauses that might limit coverage needed.

• Existing Health Insurance: Travelers are advised to check their existing health insurance policy to see if it provides the necessary coverage while traveling outside their home country.

• Verification of Policy: It is the traveler's responsibility to verify the details of their insurance policy with their insurance provider to ensure that it meets any international coverage and limitations.

• Assumption of Costs: Travelers are responsible for assuming all costs of medical care and transportation provided during the trip, including any minors traveling with them.

• Timing for Insurance Purchase:** Many travel insurance companies require the policy to be purchased within 14 days of the initial trip deposit or payment to any service provider to cover pre-existing conditions or provide "cancel for any reason" coverage.

We strive to accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies whenever possible. We collect this information from you and pass it along to the hotels, restaurants, and chefs at our destinations. However, we cannot guarantee full compliance, especially in certain locations or trips where restrictions may be challenging to accommodate. For your safety, we recommend bringing an EpiPen or making arrangements for your own meals if your allergy cannot be accommodated. You can find dietary notes for some of our trips in the "Trip FAQ" section at the bottom of the itinerary. If you have severe allergies or specific questions about a trip's suitability for you, please don't hesitate to contact us directly.

• Luxury - Luxury Experiences are exquisite tours offering 5-star accommodations, exclusive experiences, and premium service. Enjoy unparalleled comfort and sophistication, with meticulously planned itineraries that include private guided tours, gourmet dining experiences, and access to exclusive events and locations. Indulge in the finest amenities and personalized attention, ensuring a travel experience that is as seamless as it is unforgettable. (Group Size usually 8-10)
  
• Signature - Signature Experiences are designed for the discerning traveler, these tours offer upgraded accommodations and extra amenities to enhance your comfort and enjoyment. Stay in premium hotels that combine luxury and local charm, providing a perfect balance of elegance and cultural immersion. Enjoy personalized services, such as private transfers, exclusive guided tours, and bespoke dining experiences. Our Signature Trips are curated to offer unique, unforgettable experiences, ensuring every moment of your journey is exceptional. (Group Size usually 10-14)
  
• Classic - Classic Experiences are cost-conscious adventures we have crafted to provide exceptional value without compromising on quality. Immerse yourself in unforgettable experiences at affordable prices, where every detail is thoughtfully planned to ensure a seamless journey. Stay in comfortable accommodations that reflect the local culture and charm, offering a cozy retreat after each day's adventures, but the focus is less on your hotel and more on your destination. Enjoy a mix of iconic highlights and hidden gems, curated to showcase the essence of each destination without breaking the bank. With Classic Trips, you can explore fascinating landmarks, experience delicious cuisine, and connect with fellow travelers, all while staying within your budget. (Group Size usually 16-20)
  
• Ultra Luxury Women’s Only - Women's Only Experiences are specially curated tours designed exclusively for women to embrace the sisterhood of travel. These transformative journeys offer a supportive and empowering environment where female travelers can connect, bond, and create lifelong memories together. From exploring vibrant cities to venturing into remote landscapes, each experience is crafted to celebrate the spirit of adventure and the strength of female camaraderie. Join us as we embark on empowering adventures, forge meaningful connections, and embrace the joy of shared experiences in the company of fellow women travelers. Try a new craft, reflect on your journey and escape the day-to-day.. These are designed with more time in one place, relaxing mornings, time for personal discovery and the opportunity to soak into languishing dinners of laughter.(Group Size usually 8-10)
  
• Conservation - Conservation Experiences are immersive, meaningful travel experiences that go beyond sightseeing to make a positive impact on the planet. These carefully curated journeys are designed for eco-conscious travelers who are passionate about conservation and philanthropy. Each Conservation Trip offers unique opportunities to give back to the environment and local communities, allowing you to contribute to important conservation efforts while exploring stunning destinations. Participate in hands-on conservation projects and gain a deeper understanding of environmental challenges and discover how your actions can make a difference in preserving our planet's natural treasures for future generations. Accommodations and transportation on our conservation trips are often more localized, modest and locally owned and have a direct and positive impact on the community. (Group Size usually 6-8)
  
  
• Founder - Founder Experiences are exclusive expeditions led by our company's founder, blending exploration with travel research for future adventures. These special journeys offer insider access to hidden treasures, cultural encounters, and innovative activities, refining itineraries for future trips. Experience behind the curtain access to the development process and take part in opportunities that may or may not make a future trip. Delve into the founder's passion for exploration as you traverse landscapes rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, while gaining insights into the meticulous planning and research that goes into crafting unforgettable travel experiences. Whether it's scouting new destinations, seeking out authentic cultural encounters, or testing out innovative activities and a multitude of accommodations, Founder Trips provide a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the creative process of travel design. These unique trips are typically fast paced, fluid in schedule and movements within a destination are frequent. A virtual meeting with the Founder is required to be considered on these experiences. (Group Size usually 4-6)
  

Our trips are classified as either Relax/Active/Adventure/Full Throttle in terms of activity level. This typically involves less walking, and mostly driving, walking one or several miles per day, walking extensively and requiring participants to be able to stay on their feet for extended periods or wanting to be on the go from morning to night. The itinerary for each travel experience details the activities, whether they are included or optional, allowing you to gauge if your fitness level is suitable. For further details on a specific experience or activity, feel free to reach out to us directly.

• Relax & Stroll
  • This trip is ideal for travelers who prefer a leisurely pace, with minimal physical activity, offering plenty of time to relax and enjoy the scenery.
• Active Explorer
  • For those who enjoy staying on their feet with moderate activity, this level provides a balanced mix of walking and exploration without being too demanding.
• Adventure Seeker
  • If you're up for a bit more action, this level is perfect for travelers who enjoy a faster pace, with more walking, hiking, and other active pursuits.
• Full Throttle
  • Designed for the energetic adventurer, this level offers action-packed days filled with physical activities, ideal for those who seek excitement and adventure at every turn.

Tips are included covering local guides, drivers and included meals (unless otherwise noted for some specific experiences). This amount does not include a tip for your trip director, or any additional gratuity you would like to give to your driver(s) or multi-day guides, so you may wish to set aside some funds for this. 

It is customary to tip your leader for outstanding service provided during your trip. You are free to tip more or less as you see fit, depending on your perception of service quality and the length and involvement of your leader on your trip. Tips are greatly appreciated as a gesture of thanks for their professionalism and leadership during your trip.

The amount is entirely a personal preference; however, as a guideline for multi-day staff on a trip:

• Trip Director: USD $10-20 per person, per day.
• For your Driver(s): USD $10 per person, per day.
• For your Local Tour Guide(s): USD $10-15 per person, per day.

If you are unsure, simply ask us!  We understand tipping is subjective and varies from country to country (in a currency relevant for your destination).

• Deposit: To confirm a booking, travelers are required to pay a non-refundable deposit. This deposit is necessary to secure the reservation. 

• Final Payment: The final payment of the entire balance is due no later than 90 days before the trip departure date unless otherwise specified in the Special Conditions or on the itinerary page for a specific trip. 

• Payment Plans: Payment Plans are available for your convenience.

• Booking Process: Bookings can be made through the online booking system.

• Booking Confirmation: A booking is considered confirmed only when the service provider confirms it in writing, and after our client intake form has been filled out and returned. Until that confirmation is received, there is no contract between the traveler and the service provider.  

• Last-Minute Bookings: For bookings made 60 days or less before the trip departure date, the entire trip cost must be paid at the time of booking, and it is non-refundable.

• Cancellation Information: The cancellation policy is applicable to all MASTERFULLY PLANNED EVENTS, LLC experiences. The written notice must be received by certified mail or email.  Cancellation fees are based on the total value of the trip and are as follows:
  • 61+ days prior to departure: 100% of the initial trip deposit is non-refundable.
  • 0 to 60 days prior to departure: 100% of the trip cost is non-refundable.

• Transfers: You may transfer your reservation to another traveler, depending upon availability, by notifying us at least 61 days prior to the journey for a transfer fee of $500 per person, after which time our cancellation policy applies. MASTERFULLY PLANNED EVENTS, LLC is not responsible for additional expenses such as airline cancellation fees, visa fees, vaccinations, purchases of clothing or equipment, or other expenses that may occur as a result of the cancellation. 

Most national governments provide regularly updated foreign travel advice on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure and ensure that your travel insurance covers you for all destinations and activities on your trip. 

We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while traveling, for the safe-keeping of your passport, flight tickets, cash and other valuable items. Leave your jewelry at home - you won't need it while traveling. Many of our hotels have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage.

Your group leader or local representative will accompany you on all included activities, however, during your trip you'll have some free time to pursue your own interests or relax and take it easy. While your group leader or local representative will assist you with the available options in a given location, please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your itinerary, and we make no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgment when selecting an activity in your free time. 

Please also note that your group leader or local representative has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it's deemed necessary due to safety concerns.

• While traveling there is always the risk of pick-pocketing and petty theft, particularly in the more touristy cities. We recommend that you exercise caution when walking alone at night and encourage you to walk together and only on main, well-lit thoroughfares. Be particularly vigilant on public transport. Simple measures like carrying your day pack on your front, not hanging your bag over the back of your chair or on the floor and wearing a money belt will reduce any chance that your valuables should go missing.
• Please be aware that local laws governing transportation safety may differ from those in your home country and not all the transport which we use is able to provide seat belts.
• Common scams operating in Europe include ploys to get you fined on the metro without a validated ticket. Ensure that you always travel with a validated ticket (have your ticket stamped). Another common scam is used by children who distract you with a map or a newspaper and while you are attending to them, steal your valuables. You may also come across players offering you to participate in the so-called "shell game". This is a scam and you will most certainly lose your money.

SPENDING MONEY:

When it comes to spending money on the trip, every traveler is a little different. You know your spending habits better than we do, so please budget an appropriate amount for things like optional meals, drinks, shopping, optional activities, and laundry. Make sure you have read the itinerary and inclusions thoroughly so you know what is included in the trip price and what you may need to pay for while traveling.

CASH:

You can use your credit/debit card in ATMs, which are common throughout Europe. Before leaving home, check if your bank will charge fees for using your card internationally. Card payments are not always accepted in stores and restaurants. We recommend you carry some cash for these purposes.

CONTINGENCY FUNDS:

We try to plan for every eventuality, but there are still some things beyond our control. We reserve the right to change an itinerary after departure due to local circumstances or a Force Majeure Event. In such emergency circumstances, the additional cost of any necessary itinerary alterations will be covered by you. Please note we are not responsible for any incidental expenses that may be incurred as a result of the change of itineraries including but not limited to visas, vaccinations or non-refundable flights. Make sure you have access to an extra US$500 for emergencies (e.g. severe weather, natural disasters, civil unrest) or other events that result in unavoidable changes to the itinerary (e.g. transport strikes or cancellations, airport closures). Sometimes these things necessitate last-minute changes to enable our trips to continue to run, and as a result, there may be some extra costs involved. The recommended amount is listed in USD for the reliability of universal travelers, however, local currency may be needed once in the country to cover these costs.

TIPPPING:

Tips are included covering local guides, drivers and included meals. This amount does not include a tip for your trip director, or any additional gratuity you would like to give to your driver(s) or multi-day guides, so you may wish to set aside some funds for this. It is customary to tip your leader for outstanding service provided during your trip. You are free to tip more or less as you see fit, depending on your perception of service quality and the length and involvement of your leader on your trip. Tips are greatly appreciated as a gesture of thanks for their professionalism and leadership during your trip.

The amount is entirely a personal preference; however, as a guideline for multi-day staff on a trip:

-Trip Director: USD $10-20 per person, per day.

-For your Driver(s): USD $10 per person, per day.

-For your Local Tour Guide(s): USD $10-15 per person, per day.

If you are unsure, simply ask us!  We understand tipping is subjective and varies from country to country. (in a currency relevant for your destination

Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available.

OCCASIONAL ALTERNATIVE ACCOMMODATIONS:

The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline. On rare occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our usual accommodation, or an unforeseen event has occurred and we are required to make alternate plans. A similar standard of accommodation will be used in these instances.

Throughout the trip we request that our hotels prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination. Most hotel check -ins begin at 3:00 PM.

If securing your room on arrival is of high importance, we suggest that you request MPE to book you one additional night at the expense of the traveler for a guaranteed morning check-in.

INCIDENTALS: Some hotels will require each traveler (room) to supply a valid credit card upon check-in for any incidentals that are charged to the room. This hold will be refunded back to your card upon checkout, and any charges made to your room will be deducted from the credit card hold, and any charges over the hold will be charged to the card on file, unless you ask to use an alternative payment method upon check out. 

If you've purchased pre-trip or post-trip accommodation (if available), you may be required to change rooms from your trip accommodation for these extra nights, and the cost of your additional nights are the responsibility of the traveler at time of check -in, unless otherwise noted or discussed with an MPE team member.

FACILITIES our accommodation may not always have private en suite facilities or air-conditioning, depending on the type of trip you have chosen. Many European hotels don't provide kettles or fridges and air-conditioning in other parts of the world is not always the “same” as it is for the United States.