Ultimate Earth

Complete Your Checklist Before heading to the airport, complete the tasks below and check them off in your Online Account Checklist. If you have any questions, give us a call at 617-619-1411. We’re available 24/7 to make sure you have the Best. Trip. Ever.

Travel Documents

It is your responsibility to obtain all necessary travel documents before you board your flight from the United States. EF Ultimate Break will not complete this process for you, but we’ve provided additional information below regarding this application process:

• Passport: Your passport must be valid for 6 months after the tour return date.
• Electronic Travel Authorizations:
• Australia An electronic travel authorization (eTA) is required to enter Australia. US Citizens can download eTA app from the app store to fill out.
• England Starting January 8th, 2025 for travel to the UK (England, Scotland, Wales, & Northern Ireland), U.S. and Canadian passport holders will need to apply for the UK's Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA),  This includes those who are flying through the UK on a layover. The UK ETA will require a small fee, approximately 10 British pounds, and an online application. It is recommended to apply at least 20 days before travel dates to ensure a smooth trip.
• Kenya Travelers entering Kenya must obtain an electronic transit authorization (eTA). Standard processing time is 3 business days, however it is recommended applications be submitted at least 2 weeks prior to travel to ensure adequate time for processing. You can find the application here. For more information on filling out this eTA, check out our Help Center article.
• Thailand: Starting May 1st, 2025, all foreign nationals entering Thailand by air, land, or sea must complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) electronically at least 3 days before arrival. The form can be completed here.
• Additional: Kenya requires travelers who have been in select destinations to obtain a Yellow Fever Vaccine prior to entry. Peru is on this list. Since you will have traveled to Peru within 60 days of your arrival in Kenya, you must obtain a Yellow Fever Vaccine or risk being denied entry.
• Travel Insurance: While travel insurance is not required, we strongly encourage all travelers to obtain coverage before departure. Check out cost-effective Travel Protection, designed to meet the needs of EF travelers, here.
• Health Insurance: You will need to carry your primary insurance card with you while overseas. This is a critical item in the event of a medical emergency.

*Starting in mid-2025 U.S. and Canadian citizens will need to apply for the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) before entering most European Union (EU) and Schengen Zone countries. This online application will require a small fee, and travelers will undergo a security check to determine their eligibility for entry. You can keep up to date *here.

Tour Preparation

• Talk with your doctor: It is highly recommended that you talk with your doctor about your travel plans. If you are taking any medications, be certain to bring enough to last throughout your trip.
• Traveling with allergies? Let your Trip Consultant and Tour Director know of any dietary restrictions/allergies and we will do what we can to accommodate for any included meals.
• Request a roommate: Double-check with us and your Tour Director that they have your rooming status on file. We will assign a roommate for you if you do not submit a specific request.
• Get an international data plan: We recommend getting an international data plan for your mobile device so you can stay connected while on the road. Please talk with your phone provider for your best options.
  • Wi-Fi will be in some hotels, restaurants, and bars, though charges may apply and it may be slower than in the U.S.
  • Wi-Fi is not available on the bus.
• Get the EF Ultimate Break app: Your trip's group will be able to connect on the app before you meet IRL. Don't miss out! Meet other travelers, get updates from your Tour Director, see flights and accommodations, and more. If you're having trouble, give us a call at 617-619-1411.

Flight Preparation Check your online account 30 days prior to departure for your flight itinerary and confirmation number. You can check in to your flight 24 hours prior to departure. If you prefer to check in at the airport, plan to arrive 2.5 – 3 hours before departure.

• If your flight is canceled or delayed: Don’t worry! We design the first day of tour as an arrival day in case of flight delays or cancellations. Work with the airline to get rebooked on the next available flight, then let your Tour Director know your new arrival time
• If you slept in and missed your flight: You should still talk to the airline and see if they can get you on the next available option. Tears may help in this case.

Arriving in Lima Welcome to Peru! Your Tour Director will communicate through the EF Ultimate Break app, WhatsApp, or email about where to meet them at the airport. This is an important reason to make sure you have the EF Ultimate Break app!

If you have booked your own flight arrangements or have extended your travels before the tour dates, you will need to make your own way to the first hotel. Accommodation details will be available in your online account 30 days prior to departure.

Getting from A to B Transfers between cities are via plane, train, and automobile, and they can take anywhere between 2-8 hours. You’ll also receive a public transportation pass in most major cities where it’s necessary. Transportation in cities that offer no pass may require more walking. Prepare to walk between 4-8 miles per day, especially when sightseeing. Note: It’s a good idea to bring a great book with you for transfer days, and for those internal flights we mentioned earlier! We recommend some worldly pieces of work like Eat, Pray, Love, The Art of Travel, or some classics like The Hunchback of Notre Dame, or Homer’s Iliad.

If you are prone to sea-sickness or motion-sickness, we recommend bringing Dramamine! Roads are winding and you will be spending a lot of time on boats.

Internal Flights: This trip contains multiple internal flights, including three overnight flights. Your Tour Director has all the ticketing information for these flights, but please keep track of your travel documents (passport, visas) throughout the trip as you’ll need your passport for every flight.

Tour Director Information Your Tour Director will be with you for the entire trip all the way from Lima to Sydney; They’ll tell you best way to communicate with them during the trip, so if there is anything you need, be sure to connect with them. Along the way, you’ll also have local guides in each area to help with city sight-seeings or other activities. Concerned about international cellular data and staying in touch with your group or TD? Check out “Phones and Electronics” further down in this guide.

General Recommendations

There’s a difference between maximizing your time and spreading yourself too thin. Almost two months abroad is exciting and life-changing, but to make the most of these 57 days without burning out, we have a couple reminders:

• Sleep: Flying across the globe, changing time zones, and being constantly on the move can take a toll on your body. Make sure you get the rest your body needs. If that means missing a night out for some well-earned rest, or having a little afternoon siesta, so be it. This is a marathon, not a sprint.
• Stay hydrated: It’s important to drink plenty of water throughout the day.
• Be prepared: We recommend bringing a small first aid kit including antacids, anti-diarrhea medication, motion sickness medication, and any prescription medications in your carry-on bag.
• Take time for yourself: Group travel is an amazing experience, and there’s nothing quite like exploring a foreign country with a group of like-minded people. That said, it’s okay to take time for yourself to relax and reflect on your experience. Here are a few mindfulness apps you can take with you on the road:
  • Insight Timer: Meditation apps are very in right now. This one is especially amazing because there are 80,000 free daily meditations to help with sleep, anxiety, and stress.
  • What’s Up: If you’re feeling anxious, depressed, or stressed, What’s Up can help you manage these feelings with interactive games, forums, and a thought tracking diary.
  • Talkspace: No need to make appointments or commute to a therapist’s office. Talkspace gives you 24/7 access to real, licensed therapists. You can talk, text, or video chat with them right from your phone.

Destination-Specific Information There are no major health risks associated with traveling to Southeast Asia. However, we recommend you consult your physician or local travel clinic, and the CDC (Center for Disease Control) at lease 60 days prior to departure for the latest updates and vaccine / entry requirements.

• Consult your doctor or healthcare provider at least 60 days prior to departure for the latest updates and entry / vaccine requirements, or visit the Center for Disease Control and Prevention website at cdc.gov.
• With the exception of Europe and Australia, drink bottled water only and avoid tap water even when brushing your teeth.
• Avoid eating fresh fruits and vegetables in many places unless they're cooked, washed, or you can peel them (like a banana).
• Bring a small first aid kit that may include antacids, anti-diarrhea medication, motion sickness medication, etc.
• If you have daily medication, make sure you have enough for each day of the tour plus some, in case of delays.

With a global presence of more than 46,000 people in over 115 countries and regions, we’re fully committed to your safety. From your first flight all the way through to your farewell dinner, don’t hesitate to reach out to your Tour Director or your Trip Consultant if you need a helping hand. Keep these extra tips in mind so you can #travelsmart:

• Keep your bag/purse in front of you and your phone zipped inside when you’re not using it. Leave your laptop at home, store valuables at the hotel in locked luggage or the safe deposit box. Refrain from carrying large sums of money or wearing valuable jewelry.
• You may see a number of stray dogs, and be aware that many carry fleas or rashes. It may be tempting to care for the dogs, but remain vigilant if you do so!
• You’ll see a lot of monkeys and they may seem cute, but they’re actually quite rude and sometimes aggressive. They may try to grab your belongings looking for food, so keep a strong hold of your stuff if you see a monkey nearby!
• Use the buddy system. Stay in groups and watch out for each other, especially at night—no one gets left behind!
• Be smart about alcohol consumption. Watch your drinks and don’t accept drinks from people you don’t know. Don’t leave the bar alone with someone you just met.
• Before you go out, grab a business card at your hotel so that you always have the address handy for getting back later.
• At the end of a night out, use trusted transportation like a licensed taxi and always have cash on hand.
• Save our 24/7 number in your phone: +1–617–619–1411.
• Talk to your Tour Director: Your Tour Director is with you every step of the way from Lima to Sydney for a reason.

For weight and size restrictions please refer to your airline’s website. Flight information will be available 30 days prior to departure in your online account. Below you'll find some critical packing information and suggestions.

• The most important piece of advice we can give you: Pack light! Yes, even for a 54-day trip around the world! Your international airline ticket does include a checked bag, but years of customer feedback tells us a carry-on is the way to go. You may need to carry your suitcase where buses and elevators cannot, so make sure you are comfortable carrying everything you bring yourself.
  • Stick to a carry-on. We really can't stress this one enough. There are a lot of flights and boat rides on this trip that you'll have to navigate with luggage.
  • You've probably heard the hacks about rolling clothes and using packing cubes a million times, but there's a reason for that! It really does help.
  • If you choose to pack all of your toiletries, don't bring your regular-sized bottles from home. Offload some of that into travel-sized containers.
  • Choose your luggage wisely. We recommend a roller carry-on bag and a backpack as your personal item.
  • Choose shoes carefully as well. They're some of the bulkiest items you can pack, so we recommend a good pair of walking shoes and a pair of climate-appropriate shoes (boots or sandals depending on the destination and time of year). We also recommend a pair of closed-toe water shoes if your itinerary has any water activities.
  • Make a packing list of must-haves and stick to it. If you have a little extra space in your bags once all your must-haves are packed, then consider adding in a few nice extras.
• Unfortunately, luggage can get lost. It’s a painful situation no matter what, but here are tips to ease some of the hassle:
  • DO NOT put important medications in a checked bag. If your luggage is lost, this could become a dangerous issue.
  • Even if you put most of your clothes in a checked bag, put a couple outfits in your carry-on along with your toiletries.
  • If you are forced to check you carry-on at the gate, be sure to remove essentials and valuables before handing it over.
• Carefully review TSA restrictions when packing. There are a number of items not allowed in your carry-on and liquids have certain restrictions.
• Check out the local weather; we haven't figured out how to control the weather yet so best to be prepared and plan accordingly.
• Don't forget: Outlets overseas can differ from the US, so be sure to pack the right power adapters/converters!
• BUG SPRAY AND SUNSCREEN. This has been a PSA.
• Respect the Culture: Modest dress is expected and sometimes required in regions of the world like United Arab Emirates, or the temples of Thailand. Bring at least one long pair of pants or skirt, and layers to cover your shoulders when you’re in more sacred places.
• Hot Temps and Game Drives: In Kenya, weather ranges from 75-80 degrees (F) in June-September; Loose-fitting, breathable layers are best for this climate. This season is also the best time for animal-spotting, and we recommend muted colors as bright clothing may scare animals away!
• See more specific suggestions and weather-related tips in the Country-by-Country section further down in this guide.

We recommend you get an international data plan from your cell phone provider in order to stay in touch with your group, Tour Director, and your peeps back home. The most common options are the Travel Pass with Verizon, or purchasing a personal hot spot with your carrier. Wi-Fi will be in some hotels, restaurants, and bars; but it isn’t always as strong as Wi-Fi in the US. For your cell phone and any other electronics you bring abroad, you will also need a converter/adapter.

Budgeting Budget around $80-$100 per day for meals, drinks, souvenirs, and tips or extra activities.

Remember that you know your spending habits best and not everyone’s spending habits are the same. These recommendations are based on a traveler who says yes to any and all activities while on tour.

Currencies

• Peru: Peruvian soles
• UK: Pound (£)
• France: Euro (€)
• Switzerland: Swiss franc (Sfr)
• Italy: Euro (€)
• Greece: Euro (€)
• UAE: Dirham or Emirati dirham (DH / Dhs)
• Kenya: Kenyan shilling (Ksh)
• Thailand: Baht (฿)
• Australia: Australian Dollar ($ / AUD)

Managing Money

• Though each country has its own currency, USD is widely accepted in many places. That being said, it's very important that the bills are in good condition. Bills with marking or even tiny tears may be denied.
• Cash is king, but you should take debit and credit cards with you to withdraw cash at local banks as needed.
• You can use most debit/credit cards at ATMs on the international networks Cirrus and Plus, but be wary of fees.
• A 10% tip or less at restaurants or for taxis is common throughout the destinations on your tour, so try to carry small bills with you.
• Inform your bank and credit card company of your travel plans so that they won’t confuse your international purchases for fraudulent charges.

Tipping

• We recommend tipping your Tour Director $10-$12 per day at the end of the trip
• For bus drivers, we recommend tipping $2-3 per day at the end of the trip portion. This is not applicable in Peru nor Europe.
• In Peru, UAE, Thailand, and Australia you will also be accompanied by a local Tour Director with expertise in the region. We recommend tipping $4-6 per day at the end of your time with them.
• In Kenya, a local Tour Director will serve as both your guide and driver for the duration of your time in the country. We recommend tipping $6-9 per day at the end of your time with them.
• Tipping customs for meal service vary by destination. In UAE and Kenya, tipping $1 per meal is customary as tipping is an important part of the local economy. If someone helps you with your baggage, we recommend tipping them $1 per piece. In Australia, tipping is not customary but leaving a few dollars when inclined is accepted.
• For local guides, you should tip $2-$3 at the end of each experience.

Language: Spanish Local Customs:

• Common greetings in Peru are a handshake and a buenos días or buenas tardes (depending on time of day).
• Be considerate when taking photos of locals, and know that some people might not want their photo taken at all, or will ask for a payment in return for the photo. When in doubt, just ask the person if you can take a photo of them.
• Nightlife in Peru, especially Lima or Cuzco doesn’t typically begin until 10 or 11pm. You’ll find lots of locals and tourists in the same places, dancing to reggaeton, electronic, and more!

Languages: English, French, German, Italian & Greek Local Customs:

• Expect service to be slower at restaurants while eating. It's a leisure activity in these parts. Also, to go boxes are not customary, so expect to savor your entire meal.
• Don't forget your pleasantries – greet all shop owners, sales people, and servers whenever you enter or exit a store/restaurant
• In France, lower your voice to blend in. The French customarily speak very quietly and frown upon noisy tourists, especially on the metro.
• Plan to eat dinner late. Most restaurants don't open until at least 7pm. Expect meals to take a long time, as servers expect you to sit and enjoy your meal and will not rush you out. To go boxes are also not a thing.
• Don't expect to split the check at restaurants. Plan to pay in cash or have one person in your party pay and Venmo them later.
• Things in Europe move at a glacial pace compared to the United States, expect to relax and go with the flow throughout your stay.
• In Greece, try ouzo! It's a anise flavored liquor that you must try at least once. To properly cheers, look your drinking buddy square in the eye, say "Yamas!" and throw back your shot.

Language: Arabic Local Customs:

• Dress modestly. Yes it's super hot in the summer (temperatures up to the 100s) but women should cover to their knees and shoulders and men should wear at the very least shirts and shorts. If you're on the beach or at the pool normal western bathing suits are totally fine.
• Don't take pictures of people without asking. While it can seek harmless to snap a shot you might think is interesting of a local in front of some landmark, this is culturally rude and illegal. Taking photos of buildings, your food, and your friends is fair game.
• You'll have the opportunity to go out and have fun with your new friends but keep in mind that it is illegal to be drunk in public in Dubai. So at the end of the night, hop in a cab instead of wandering the streets.
• If you're a man, don't extend your hand to shake hands with a Muslim woman. Some Muslim women will shake hands with men, some won't so to be safe, if you're a man, wait for her to extend a hand. She will either to do that, or she may place her hand on her chest and give a slight head bow, in which case you can greet her by returning the gesture.

Language: Swahili Local Customs:

• Local culture dictates you always eat with your right hand - do not touch food with your left.
• Animal protection efforts are strong in Kenya, so keep this in mind when buying souvenirs and observing animals in their local habitats.
• Do not plan to go exploring on your own. Your Tour Director will help guide you through areas and you will have transportation provided to help you get from place to place.

Language: Thai Local Customs:

• Though the modest dress etiquette is more relaxed in the areas you are visiting, you will need an outfit for visiting the temples. Women should cover their knees and shoulders and men typically wear collared shirts and long pants.
• In Thailand, the head is considered a sacred body part, and the feet are the least. Out of respect, never touch anyone in the head and never point at anything with your feet.
• Street food is safe and delicious! Try to stick with vendors that have a long line to make sure you’re getting the best of the best.

Language: English Local Customs:

• Since Australian seasons are flipped, you'll be in Sydney during their mild winter. Though the weather is still pleasant, we recommend carrying an extra layer at night for when the temperatures drop..
• Australia has a thinner ozone layer, making it easier to get a sunburn even on cloudy days. Make sure to wear and reapply sunscreen so you can keep enjoying the outdoor activities. Don't be surprised if you are approached by a lifeguard who tells you to reapply, it's basically in their job description.
• Attention coffee lovers: Aussie's are very proud of their coffee culture and they take their own spin on it. If you're picky, you may want to find out exactly what you're ordering before you do it. You're iced coffee quite possibly may be served with a scoop of ice cream.

If you did not purchase EF Ultimate Break Optional Excursions before the trip began, you can log into your Online Account and do so on tour. You can also talk to your Tour Director on tour and they can help you get enrolled. If you’d like to plan something else during your free time, connect with your Tour Director before doing so; they sometimes arrange extra activities for the group during free time.

Prices for these optional excursions will increase on tour, so please check your online account for available add-ons.

Regarding the Vatican Optional: The Vatican is closed on Sundays. In the event that the itinerary day containing this optional lands on a Sunday for your departure, the optional will take place the day before