Travel Questions
Find out everything you need to know before your trip.
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Why should I book through Little Scottish Treasures, rather than booking the trip myself?
Our first-hand knowledge of Scotland and all the locations you wish to visit.
Having one point of contact for all arrangements and amendments.
Having 24-hour support on the ground in Scotland should you ever need help or advice.
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To see the extra lengths we go to…
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When should I book?
To receive optimum value, we recommend advance booking of 4-6 months but we have previously arranged exceptional trips with as little as 48 hours notice. Please keep in mind that many locations like the Isle of Skye are massively popular at peak times with demand for accommodation far outstripping supply- booking well in advance helps us to secure the best accommodation at reasonable prices, thereby keeping the tour cost as low as possible.
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How much does a private custom tour cost?
Each tour is individually designed according to the number of guests and dates requested, as well as to your budget and style preference, so it is difficult for us to offer a definitive figure including accommodation and attractions. One person’s idea of heaven is another person’s idea of hell- so there’s no fixed rule. Feel free to call us for an informal chat, and we’ll be happy to provide a guideline price for the holiday you have in mind.
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What does the cost generally include?
All tours can be tailored to your personal requirements, but the cost of an average tour will include breakfasts, accommodations, and excursions as indicated in the itinerary; services of a private driver guide and local guides as appropriate; ground transportation and fuel; taxes and complementary tasters.
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Are meals included?
Breakfast is generally included each day. We believe it is wise to keep lunch and dinner free to allow guests to see how they feel on a particular day and to decide the type of cuisine they desire. We can make advance restaurant reservations when requested, and provide lists of recommended restaurants in each location.
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Can we customise an itinerary?
Of course you can. We specialise in giving you the holiday that you want and allow you as much, or as little, control in the planning as you are looking for. Custom, private travel gives you the opportunity to create a schedule that will suit your holiday ideal, rather than someone else’s. With a variety of options in transport, sightseeing, and accommodations, your holiday will fit your budget, your timeframe, and your own ideas and expectations.
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How much flexibility is there in my final itinerary?
Overnight locations are agreed in advance, and then each itinerary is based around flexible daily sightseeing, cultural experiences and leisure time- we keep itineraries as flexible as possible to take advantage of unexpected opportunities or to adapt to weather conditions or other circumstances. In addition, where possible, we have built in options and free time so that you can experience Scotland in a way that is meaningful to you. Essentially, we offer the independence you want with the structure and expertise that makes for a great tour.
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What if I am not happy with your initial suggestion?
Because everything is individually designed, we are only as good as the information you give us. We try to get an itinerary right first time – but sometimes we have to make assumptions. So please tell us if you would like any changes at the planning stage, and we will gladly discuss alternatives and make any necessary adjustments.
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I'd like to make a booking - What happens next?
We will confirm availability of your dates and basic itinerary then send you a secure payment link for a 20% non-refundable deposit. Arrangements for hotel and transportation will be secured upon receipt of the deposit, and we will send you some background information to help you prepare for the holiday and discuss the route until we have a final itinerary. It is critical for you to put travel insurance in place at this stage to protect your investment. We will issue a balance invoice, to be paid in full 30 days prior to travel.
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Can you book our flights?
We do not book air travel but are happy to assist with advice on various options. Many of our guests arrive on different airlines. Booking flights directly with the airline via the internet is usually the best solution.
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How do I know what sort of holidays you can organise?
We display a range of suggested itineraries on this website. These are just samples, put there to give you initial ideas. They are meant as a starting-point rather than a fait accompli. For someone with more specific interests, these are never going to be completely right. If one of the ‘suggested itineraries’ appeals to you that’s fine – but we would still like to talk with you to make sure that it really delivers what you are looking for.
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Does it always rain in Scotland?
Despite the myth that it always rains in Scotland, the country enjoys a moderate climate allowing for touring year-round. The high season occurs between March and October. The weather changes often. We advise you to bring layers and good outerwear, hats and waterproof shoes. November to April is the shoulder season yet the weather can be pleasantly dry and bright with temperatures of 40-60 degrees Fahrenheit. And bear in mind there is no such thing as bad weather, only the wrong clothes.
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Do I need travel insurance?
We strongly advise that you be fully insured for your holiday and make sure that all of the activities which you will be carrying out are covered by such insurance. This insurance must include emergency evacuation and repatriation costs in respect of all of your activities. We strongly recommend that your insurance covers for cancellation and other situations outlined in our terms and conditions.
With regard to our own insurances, Little Scottish Treasures is fully insured for our Public, Product and Professional Liabilities.