Page 42 - Soul of India: The Colorful South

Sri Lanka: Credit and Debit cards are widely accepted in Sri Lanka for major purchases and
in shops associated with the tourist trade but may not be accepted by smaller restaurants
or shops.

United Arab Emirates: Credit and debit cards are widely accepted for major purchases and
in shops associated with the tourist trade, but may not be accepted in smaller shops or
restaurants.

Notify Card Providers

Many credit card companies and banks have fraud alert departments that will freeze your card
if they see suspicious charges—such as charges or withdrawals from another country. To avoid
an accidental security block, it is a good idea to notify your credit card company and/or bank
you will be using your cards abroad. You can do this by calling their customer service number
a week or two before your departure. Some banks or credit card companies will also let you do
this online.

You should also double-check what phone number you could call if you have a problem with a
card while you are abroad. Don’t assume you can use the 1-800 number printed on the back of
your card—most 1 800 numbers don’t work outside of the U.S.!

Tipping Guidelines

Of course, whether you tip, and how much, is always at your own discretion. Listed below are
our recommendations for the tips that are not included in your tour price:

O.A.T. Trip Leader: It is customary to express a personal “thank you” to your O.A.T. Trip
Leader at the end of your trip, especially if he or she has provided you with individual
service. As a guideline, many travelers give $7-$10 USD (or equivalent in local currency) per
person per day.

Housekeeping staff at hotels: $1-2 per room, per night

Waiters: Your Trip Leader will tip waiters for included meals. If you are dinning on your own
remember that it is common to tip anywhere from 5%-10% in restaurants.

Taxi drivers: If you are taking a taxi by yourself, keep in mind that tipping is not common
practice, but many people simply let the driver keep the change by rounding up the fare to the
next whole number.

Please Note: Your tour price includes gratuities on the main trip and optional extensions for
local guides, drivers, and luggage porters that may assist you during the scheduled activities
on your adventure. All tips are quoted in U.S. dollars; tips can be converted and paid in local
currency or in U.S. dollars. Please do not use personal or traveler’s checks for tips.

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