Measures comversion chart

We hope this little chart will be useful during your trip to Europe.
Please notice Money conversion changes everyday.
Also Time conversion will change as Portugal follows GMT (as UK), while Spain follows CET (like France).
Therefore, in Spain is one hour later than in Portugal.

Europe	USA - California		USA - California	Spain
1 euros	1,36 dollars	x 1,36	1 USD	0,73 EUR	x 0,73
1 sq meter	10,76 sq yard	x 1,19	1 yr2	0,83 m2	x 0,83
1 Meter (m)	3,28 feet	x 3	1 feet	0,3 metros	x 0,3
1 Kilometer	0,62 miles	x 0,62	1 miles	1,61 Km	x 1,61
1 kilograms	2,20 pounds	x 2,2	1 pound(lb)	0,45 Kg	x 0,45
1 liter	0,26 gallons	x 0,26	1 gal	3,79 l	x 3,79
10º Celsius	50º fahrenheit		60º F	15,5º C
20 ºC	68º F		70º F	21,1º C
30º C	86º F		80º F	26,6º C
12:00 noon Spain 11 am Portugal	7 am (behin)	- 5 hrs	12:00 noon	5 am (ahead) Spain 4 am (ah) Portugal	+ 5 hrs

The Weather in Spain and Portugal and What to Pack for your Trip

Dear travelers of the Occidental College Glee Club,

As your departure for your 2014 performance tour comes closer and closer, Incantato Tours would like to provide you with a couple travel tips.

For most people, packing for a trip is the most difficult part. The solution for many is to just pack as much as you possibly can into your suitcase and backpack, but as a colleague explains it: "You'll be thanking me later when you don't break your back from having to carry everything on your own. Don't do it!" Her advice: "Pack as lightly as you can. The best way to get it all to fit nicely into your suitcase is to fold it nicely and then roll it tightly. It can all fit into your bag like a puzzle."
The major factor is that you should bring only 1 suitcase, no heavier than 50 pounds.

Knowing the weather forecast can be helpful, keeping in mind that it is still too early to have a good prediction… However, here you have some examples of how the weather can be in the cities you will visit for the month of January. Remember it is winter!

• Madrid: Temperatures between 35º and 50ª F, scarce rain, chilly wind from the snow-capped mountains. 
• Córdoba: January temperatures usually vary between 40º and 55º F. It is never as cold as in Madrid, so you can expect fair non-rainy winter days… being outdoors at sunny midday is nice!
• Sevilla: Very much like Cordoba, average temperature in January runs from 45 to 60º F. It is a bit warmer, and it might rain occasionally.
• Évora: 43º and 55º degrees, some rains, mild temperatures unless it gets windy up-and-downhill. 
• Lisboa: Well, this could be the rainiest part of the trip – though you can always be surprised!!. Lisbon January temperatures run from 45º to 60º F, and there is a 47% chance of getting some rain!!

Even if you are used to lower temperatures and you feel these forecasts sound like summer, please keep in mind that many churches have a dress code and will not allow you to walk in if you are wearing tank tops or shorts. A scarf is a good solution here. Shorts should always go to your knees (both for ladies and gents).

Now it is time for you to start planning your luggage! We hope the weather forecasts can help you to decide what to bring. Here are a few things that we think are essential to have to be comfortable with what the weather brings and with the weight of your bag - remember, we allow only one checked bag per person, (maximum 50 pounds) and one small carry-on such as a backpack. A sample packing list (just a suggestion!):

• Rain jacket, maybe with fleece insert
• Umbrella
• Gloves, scarf, hat… if you tend to feel chilly!
• An adapter plug/converter (if you are bringing electronic devices, please check if they are compatible, most new devices are – most……)
• Camera and batteries or charger with adapter
• At least two pair of jeans/pants, ladies may want to bring a couple skirts or dresses, too
• A sweater or two, (or three, if you tend to feel chilly).
• Plenty of shirts, including a polo or two and at least two dress shirts (Europeans dress much more formal than Americans)
• Plenty of undergarments and socks for daily changes
• A watch, make-up and jewelry if applicable (carry on any valuables at all times)
• Choir music and attire
• Don't forget shoes, we recommend a maximum of three pairs (tennis shoes, good everyday shoes, dress shoes). Bring nice concert shoes, but make sure that you will be able to walk long distances in them. Europeans do not wear flip flops other than to the pool or at the beach.
• Put all liquids that are in your carry-on into a zip-lock bag. And remember the 311 rules: TSA | Transportation Security Administration | 3-1-1 on Air Travel
• All scissors, fingernail clippers, etc. are better packed in your check-in luggage along with liquids over 3 ounces. Bring enough contact lense solution and prescription medication that you may need for the whole duration of the trip.
• If you forget anything there are plenty of shops where you can by shampoo, toothpaste, etc.

You can also check more info on:
Little things to know about Spain and Portugal before packing
Travel tip: Money matters

Please do not hesitate to address us with any questions you might have about this or any other matter. We would love to help you!!

References for weather:
http://www.whatmadrid.com/weather.html
http://www.tour-madrid.com/areas/servicios/eltiempo.asp
http://www.whatcordoba.com/cordoba-weather.htmlhttp://spain-411.com/sevilla-general-info/seville.html
http://www.holiday-weather.com/evora/averages/january/
http://weatherspark.com/averages/32376/3/7/Lisbon-Portugal

Little things to know about Spain and Portugal before packing

At Incantato Tours, we strive for you to enjoy every single step of your way. Here you have some info on little things you might want to know about Spain and Portugal before getting on the plane. Maybe these tips are able to help you enjoy the trip better!

Spain and Portugal at night by NASA

In Spain there is a saying that :
“one just-in-case is worth more than a hundred if-I-had-known”

- It is customary to always have some kind of picture ID. You can use your passport or your driver's license. It is a good idea to have a photocopy of your passport to be kept with the rest of your valuables.

- In order to use a credit card, you will need to activate it and get a pin number before coming. Let your bank know that you will be using it abroad so that the card will not get blocked!

- American Express credit cards are not accepted in many places.

- Any kind of Traveler Checks are not accepted. If they are, it can become very expensive.

- Please click here for more info on money matters.

- Food and clothing are generally more expensive in Spain than in the USA. Portugal is cheaper than Spain for most things.

- It is forbidden to smoke in all public places.

- Please bring a photocopy of your prescriptions in case you need medication. This is a just-in-case! The active ingredient is good to know too, as we do not always have the same medicines (though mostly).

Cooblestoned Praça do Giraldo, Évora

- Old towns mean cobblestones and hilly streets, pedestrian areas, steps, stairs... Happy feet help to have a happy tour. Please bring flat, comfortable shoes.
- Flip-flops are definitely not comfortable in our old towns, but they might be in the hotels. We do not walk around barefoot! Remember that January maybe rainy, especially in Portugal!

- Showing your knees/shoulders is forbidden inside churches. We will be entering churches almost daily – concerts, art, history... Please bring appropriate clothing. Knee-long pants/skirts, girls can use a scarf to cover their shoulders. Men are not supposed to use scarves, so please do bring shirts with sleeves (short or long).

- Pocket-knives, scissors and sometimes drinks and food are not allowed inside some monuments and museums.

- Laundry service in hotels is very expensive. Unfortunately there are only a few laundromats in Madrid and Lisbon.

- Suitcase: 1 per person, NOT heavier than 50 pounds!!

If you have any specific questions, please do not hesitate to contact us. There are so many little things that we can tell you, and we will be hapy to address your doubts!

Hasta la vista!

Travel Tip: Money matters

Dear travelers,

Money is a delicate subject. The best way to use your money during your upcoming trip is to have adebit card; this allows you to withdraw money from any ATM machine with only being charged a small withdrawal fee. This fee will differ between banks. Be sure to call your bank before yourdeparture to tell them where you are going and for how long so they won't freeze your account. Thedebit cards given by a bank has the compatibility of Visa, MasterCard, however, Visa is the most widely accepted worldwide.

If you bring cash, you can exchange it but you will lose more money as they often charge for their services. Most places in Europe won't accept traveler's checks anymore. Also, be prepared to pay for water and a small fee for restroom use. There are no free refills on soft drinks in Europe which is why mostEuropeans ask for little to no ice in their drinks.

We suggest you have some spending money available and our recommendation is around $20-25/day for the meals not included, snacks, drinks, postcards and some souvenirs. It is notimperative that you have this amount of money. 

There are many ways to lower your expenses such as:

• Most restaurants have menus outside so you can check their price range. 
• Venture off the main roads to find a restaurant. These usually have more character, better food, and better prices. 
• Bring your own water bottle. Most places have safe tap water to fill up with. 
• Buy food from the "convenient" stores. You don't have to sit down in the restaurant for every meal. 
• Shop around for souvenirs; many stores have the same things on sale for very different prices.

Remember that your Incantato Tour Manager is with you pretty much 24/7. The guide is there to help you make the right choices.

Travel Insurance: Protecting Yourself and Your Investment

Dear Occidental College Glee Club Travelers, 

As indicated on your registration form, it is mandatory for all tour participants to obtain travel insurance to protect your investment in case you have to cancel for a medical situation, loss of luggage or various other reasons.

Our recommended insurance option is described below along with an online link to Travel Guard. We highly recommend this company based on a long and excellent relationship. 

TravelGuard has a variety of policies including a family plan.

In order for us to keep track of travel insurance for your group, please sign up through these links connected with Incantato Tours. Click here to get a Travel Guard Insurance quote.

Incantato Tours strongly recommends getting Travel Guard travel insurance for your upcoming journey as they have been a very reliable partner and provide excellent services, but we also know that you may have a different preferred supplier or are already covered under another policy. Again, travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage is mandatory for all Incantato Tours travelers. 

Not only are you covered medically should anything happen when traveling, but with TravelGuard's policies, you also protect your investment should you have to cancel or interrupt the trip.There is also coverage for delayed and lost luggage etc.

Here is a direct line to purchase travel insurance online and can you do so with your credit cards and also select the option that is best for you.

In the meantime, have a look at the most comprehensive coverage option The Protect Assist Gold below.

Protect Assist (Gold) -

Comprehensive Travel Protection for the World Traveler

Trip Cancellation JUST ADDED! - Trip Cancellation due to employment loss or layoff if employed with the same employer 1 year or longer Trip Interruption and Travel Delay Emergency Medical and Emergency Medical Transportation Baggage and Travel Document Protection Baggage Delay and Lost Baggage Tracking NEW - Cancel For Any Reason option now available NEW - Cancel For Work Reasons option now available NEW - Children age 17 and under covered at no additional cost IMPROVED -Trip Cancellation limit increased to $100,000 (from $15,000),  IMPROVED - Trip Interruption coverage increased to 150% of Trip Cost IMPROVED - Travel Delay required hours reduced to 5 hours (from 12) ProtectAssist special features: Best coverage for Weather Related Cancellations Pre-existing Condition Exclusion Waiver* Default/Bankruptcy Protection* $50,000 Flight Accident Insurance* 24-Hour "LiveTravel" Travel Agency Emergency Cash Transfers Identity Theft Restoration * These additional benefits apply If you are purchasing within 15 days of making your initial trip deposit or payment, however, coverage may still be purchased at any time up to 24 hours prior to departure. Increase your coverage with these valuable additions to your Protect Assist Plan: Cancel For Any Reason – 50% reimbursement of nonrefundable expenses if you cancel your trip for any reason, up to 48 hours prior to your departure. Only available when this plan is purchased within 15 days of initial trip payment. Cancel For Work Reasons – Offers additional work-related reasons for cancellation or interruption. Also includes our exclusive “Business Assistant” services if you have work obligations during your travels. Only available when this plan is purchased within 15 days of initial trip payment. Umbrella Package – Medical Expense limits are doubled and coverage is upgraded to primary. Emergency Medical Transportation limits are doubled and benefits upgraded to take you home or to the hospital of your choice. $25,000 Accidental Death and Dismemberment coverage will be added Optional coverages cannot be purchased separately. Must be purchased with base ProtectAssist plan.

Comprehensive non-insurance travel services* automatically included with plan!With the ProtectAssist plan, every customer also has access to these valuable travel services when they travel:
· Arrangements for last-minute flight changes
· Hotel finder and reservations
· Rental car reservations
· Emergency medical assistance
· BagTrak® -- lost baggage tracking
· Pre-trip health and safety advisories
· Live e-mail and phone messaging to family and friends
· Cash transfers
· Airport transportation
· Golf course reservations
· Event ticketing
· Floral services
· Identity Theft restoration

Business Assistant* (available when Optional Cancel for Work Reasons coverage is purchased)

*Non-Insurance services are provided by AIG Travel Assist.

Eligibility

Citizenship: All Nationalities

Residency: United States

New York, Oregon, and Washington residence please call to purchase
Some rider options are not available and other restrictions may apply
Destination: Worldwide
Ages: All Ages
Max Trip Length: 365 Days

Travel Tips: Q & A

What should everyone carry at all times, real passport or a photo copy?

Ideally, your passport should be on your person at all times. Please be “street-smart” and don’t wave it around for all to see. Photocopies of the passport should be packed in your suitcase, available in your e-mail and also Incantato should have a copy as well.

Is the tap water safe to drink?

It is save to drink the water in Ireland. But in some cities it's not tasty because of the chlorine or hard water.

Do you have recommendations or suggestions on the type of power adapter needed and what wattage?

Electricity in Ireland is supplied at standard European voltage, 230V 50Hz, but the plugs used are not the same as continental Europe. Ireland uses IS401 (BS1363) plugs which are identical to those used in the United Kingdom. Visitors from the US using 110 volt supplies need to purchase voltage adaptors, or ensure that their equipment can be used on 230V 50Hz. Adapters and converters may be found at Target, Walmart and radio shack etc.

What is the weight limit for check-in baggage?

1 suitcase weighing under 50lbs.

What the size limit and number of items is for carry on?

You may have 1 carry-on bag – it must be able to fit either under the seat in front of you or in the overhead bin. We recommend a backpack.

What are the airline carryon container regulations?

No containers holding more that 3ozs of liquid or (100g for toothpaste) is allowed in the carryon luggage. They also must be in a plastic zip-lock bag.

What has the best exchange rate, using a debit card to pull money out or exchanging US currency?

By far the best way is to use your debit card. Most banks only charge around $2 per withdraw and they also take care of the exchange rate for you. You do need a 4 digit pin and also let your bank know that you are travelling abroad. DO NOT BRING TRAVELLERS' CHEQUES!

What is the approximate exchange rate right now?

It’s about $1.31 to 1 EUR.

What happens if someone gets injured while in tour? Medical care and cost wise? Do they need a medical consent form for treatment?

We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance. You find a link to our recommended partner on this blog.

If needed, is there laundry service?

It’s really expensive to do laundry overseas as it is dry-cleaning only. There are no irons in the hotel room.

Travel Tips: Money matters

Dear Travelers, Money is a delicate subject. The exchange rate at the moment is better than it was a few months ago. Currently it's around 1 Euro = $ 1,31. The best way to use your money is to have a debit card; this allows you to withdraw money from any ATM machine with only being charged a small withdrawal fee. The fee differs between banks. Be sure to call your bank before your departure to tell them where you are going and for how long so they won't freeze your account. The debit cards given by the bank has the compatibility of Visa, MasterCard, however, Visa is the most widely accepted worldwide. If you bring cash, you can exchange it but you will lose more money as they charge for their services. Most places in Europe won't accept traveler's checks anymore. Also, be prepared to pay for water and a fee for restroom use (between 30 to 70 Euro cent). Last not least, there are no free refills on soft drinks in Europe which is why most Europeans ask for little to no ice in their drinks.
We suggest you have some spending money available and our recommendation is around 15 to 20 Euro per day for the meals not included, snacks, drinks, postcards, some souvenirs. It is not imperative that you have this amount of money. There are many ways to lower your expenses such as:
· Most restaurants have menus outside so you can check their price range.
· Venture off the main roads to find a restaurant. These usually have more character, better food, and better prices.
· Bring your own water bottle. Most places have safe tap water to fill up with.
· Buy food from the "convenient" stores. You don't have to sit down in the restaurant for every meal.
· Shop around for souvenirs; many stores have the same things on sale for very different prices.

Last not least, remember that your Incantato Tour Manager is with you pretty much 24/7. The guide is there to help you make the right choices.

Travel Tips: What to pack?

For most people, packing is the most difficult part. The solution for many is to just pack as much as you possibly can into your suitcase and backpack, but as a colleague explains it: "You'll be thanking me later when you don't break your back from having to carry everything on your own. Don't do it!" Her advice: "Pack as lightly as you can. The best way to get it all to fit nicely into your suitcase is to fold it nicely and then roll it tightly. It can all fit into your bag like a puzzle."

Keep in mind, however, that many cathedrals have a dress code and will not allow you to walk in if you are wearing tank tops or shorts. A scarf is a good solution to this code. And shorts should always go to your knees (both for Ladies and Gents). Incantato also plans a farewell dinner for the tour groups, so bring something comfortable and dressy.
Here are a few things that we think are essential to have to be comfortable with what the weather brings and with the weight of your bag - remember, we allow only one checked bag per person and a small carry-on such as a bag pack or small duffel. Yes Ladies, you may have a small purse in addition, gents a camera case is fine too, but again, you will be the one carrying it all from the bus to the hotel and vice versa, so better test if you can move all your travel belongings without needing to make two trips or help from someone else.
A sample packing list (just a suggestion!)
* Rain jacket, maybe with fleece insert
* Umbrella
* An adapter plug/converter (if bringing electronic devices)
* Camera and batteries or charger with adapter
* At least two pair of jeans/pants, ladies may want to bring a couple skirts or dresses too
* a sweater or two
* Plenty of shirts, including a polo or two and at least two dress shirts (Europeans dress much more formal than Americans)
* Plenty of undergarments and socks for daily changes
* A watch, make-up and jewelry if applicable (carry on any valuables)
* Choir music and attire
* Don't forget shoes, we recommend a maximum of three pairs (tennis shoes, good everyday shoes, dress shoes). Bring nice concert shoes, but make sure that you will be able to walk long distances in them. Europeans do not wear flip flops other than to the pool or at the beach.
* Put all liquids that are in your carry-on into a zip-lock bag. And remember the 311 rules.http://www.tsa.gov/311/
* All scissors, fingernail clippers, etc. are better packed in your check-in luggage along with liquids over 3 ounzes. Bring enough contact lense solution and prescription medication that you may need for the whole duration of the trip.

If you forget anything there are plenty of shops where you can by shampoo, toothpaste, etc.