What information does Ashby's Europe need from me to make a tour proposal?
We need to know where and when you wish to travel, how many
people will be in the group. If there is a specific focus
to the tour, we like to know what unique sightseeing and events
would appeal to the group. The Tour
Design Form will guide you through the basic information.
How can I arrange my travel before and after my trip?
Ashby's Europe is not responsible for the purchase of non-refundable advance purchase airline tickets. We therefore recommend that you consult your regular travel agent for flights. We are able to offer arrangement of car rental and train ticketing if required.
Can I alter my itinerary en route?
Flexibility is our speciality and no request is deemed to large or small. It is worth noting that client involvement with planning does not finish when the trip begins, it just becomes even more personal. The trip can, within reason, be altered at any stage to take advantage of a one-off event or new whim. Major alterations will inevitably incur some additional costs although all attempts will be made to minimise them.
What size and type of groups can Ashby's Europe handle?
Well, one would be enough, but a few more would help liven it up a bit! The average group size is 8 - 14 but more can be accommodated if required. Ashby's Europe can offer custom-designed travel for corporate incentive trips, non-profit organisations, museums, clubs, associations, families, honeymooning couples, individuals, and special interest groups including: walking, cycling, painting, cooking, wine tasting, truffle hunting, hot air ballooning, art, genealogy, gardens, history, and sport - and whatever else you can think of!
How much does a bespoke tour cost?
This very much depends on the group size and the degree of luxury that we include. Nonetheless, people are often surprised, and delighted, that we can offer trips that are of comparable - or often better - quality than many brochure listed trips they have looked at. One obvious way we reduce overheads is by not producing a brochure, and the winner is you!
Does bespoke just mean luxury all the time?
Bespoke means 'made to your order'. Therefore, if you happen to want to spend a night in a troglodyte dwelling or eat 'al fresco' off hewn stone slabs in lavender planted former Roman quarry that will be our pleasure to arrange for you.
Can I do a bespoke tour without a guide?
We feel that our guides are a vital part of an Ashbys experience and their involvement is integral to the fulfilment of your unique vacation. However, we have started to organise some self-guided walking/biking tours where the services of a local guide is available when required.
What if my companion is more - or less - active than me?
Not everyone has identical interests - even married ones! At Ashbys we always have a wide range of options open to those who want to do something different; just let us know in advance if you're a shopper or a mountain jogger and we'll find something for you. Our bespoke trips offer the ultimate in flexibility.
Why travel with Ashby's Europe instead of a bigger operator?
It's a size issue here. We do not want to say that bigger doesn't have some advantages, but we feel that smaller is better. Our guests benefit from the unique local knowledge and services available from a destination based operator. The attention is so much more personal and we really do believe that talking to people does far more justice to the needs and desires of so many distinct individuals. Being smaller also helps to reduce our overheads and makes us faster to react to new possibilities and developments
Are children welcome on a tour?
Of course, in fact many people who require our services are families and groups of friends with children.
How far ahead do I need to book?
Obviously the more notice we have the better, but if you have a sudden impulse to head off somewhere at the last minute then we will do our utmost to get you what you want.
You say you can accommodate any request?
Yes, but we do say within reason. We would also like to make it totally clear that we wholeheartedly support the concepts of ethical and sustainable tourism and do not wish to be associated with any individuals or organisations looking to pursue activities contrary to this.
Do you organise Fam trips for agents?
Fam trips are available only on new trips that we are seeking to promote. Please ask for details.
Do you have any restrictions on age, diet, or disability?
None, providing that the activity and trip desired is suitable we will organise it. We do require fitness certificates from people over the age of sixty. We are also able to accommodate most dietary requests on our trips and obtain full dietary information, such as allergies to gluten and dairy products, prior to departure
Do you prefer clients to book through a travel agent?
No, we like to talk directly with our guests: this will save you time and money, and avoid misunderstanding.
| 
