FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

About Your Bookings

Do I need Travel Insurance?

When booking a holiday it’s more important than ever to make sure you have adequate travel insurance in place to bring you peace of mind, protect your booking before you travel and for eventualities while you are overseas.

There has been a lot of coverage in the media about the impact of the pandemic on travel insurance, with many travel insurers either withdrawing cover entirely or adding COVID exclusions to their existing products.

How American Holidays can help

Having reviewed a number of travel insurance companies, we are happy to recommend specialist brokers Campbell Irvine*. Campbell Irvine’s travel policies include cover should you be diagnosed with or directly exposed to Covid-19, before and during your trip.
For more details about the Campbell Irvine Direct travel insurance policy or to arrange a quote, you can:

  • Apply Online
  • Email: info@campbellirvine.com
  • Call: the dedicated sales line on 01702 427 236
  • *Campbell Irvine Ltd are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Please note that American Holidays are an Unregulated Introducer of Campbell Irvine Ltd and do not offer or arrange any form of financial services products.

    Car Hire

    Please refer to your booking invoice for details of cover. Details of online registration and skip the queue at most airport destinations can be also found on your invoice.

    Can I prebook Sat Nav?

    Yes, Sat Nav can be pre-booed for an additional £38 per week.

    Celebrity Cruise

    Celebrity cruise guests are required to complete the online check-in process on the cruise company web site http://www.celebritycruises.com, using your cruise confirmation reference from your Travel documents. Failure to do so will delay you viewing or downloading your E-Docs.
    You are advised to download the App prior to travel. This is available on the App Store and Google Play Store. The app allows you to: Check in for your cruise. Make restaurant reservations. Reserve shore excursions. Track onboard spending. Further information can be found on the following links: https://www.celebritycruises.com/gb/celebrity-app
    Ensure you have a minimum of 6 months on your passport from the date of your return, that you have checked with the relevant embassies for visa requirements and that you have completed your ESTA.
    We ask that you bring a printout of your approved application, or a digital copy including the ESTA number to cruise check-in to speed immigration processing.
    Celebrity Cruises

    Royal Caribbean

    Royal Caribbean guests are required to complete the online check-in process on the cruise company web site http://www.royalcaribbean.com , using your cruise confirmation reference from your travel documents . Failure to do so will delay you viewing or downloading your E-Docs.
    You are advised to download the App prior to travel. This is available on the App Store and Google Play Store. The app allows you to: Check in for your cruise. Make restaurant reservations. Reserve shore excursions. Track onboard spending. Further information can be found on the following links: https://www.royalcaribbean.com/gbr/en/booked/royal-app
    Ensure you have a minimum of 6 months on your passport from the date of your return, that you have checked with the relevant embassies for visa requirements and that you have completed your ESTA.
    We ask that you bring a printout of your approved application, or a digital copy including the ESTA number to cruise check-in to speed immigration processing.
    Royal Caribbean

    MSC Cruises

    MSC guests are required to complete the online check-in process on the cruise company web site http://www.msccruises.ie, using your cruise confirmation reference can be found on your travel documents. Failure to do so will delay you viewing or downloading your E-Docs.
    You are advised to download the App prior to travel. This is available on the App Store and Google Play Store. The app allows you to: Check in for your cruise. Make restaurant reservations. Reserve shore excursions. Track onboard spending. Further information can be found on the following links: https://www.msccruises.co.uk/on-board/internet-apps/msc-for-me
    Ensure you have a minimum of 6 months on your passport from the date of your return, that you have checked with the relevant embassies for visa requirements and that you have completed your ESTA.
    We ask that you bring a printout of your approved application, or a digital copy including the ESTA number to cruise check-in to speed immigration processing.
    Before departure: useful information | MSC Cruises
    By reading about MSC Cruises web check-in service and useful information for cruising, you can maximise enjoyment and relaxation while on cruise.

    Princess Cruises

    Princess cruises guests are required to complete the online check-in process on the cruise company web site http://www.princess.com, using your cruise confirmation reference from your travel documents or invoice. Failure to do so will delay you viewing or downloading your E-Docs.
    You are advised to download the App prior to travel. This is available on the App Store and Google Play Store. The app allows you to: Check in for your cruise. Make restaurant reservations. Reserve shore excursions. Track onboard spending. Further information can be found on the following links: https://www.princess.com/ships-and-experience/ocean-medallion/
    Ensure you have a minimum of 6 months on your passport from the date of your return, that you have checked with the relevant embassies for visa requirements and that you have completed your ESTA.
    We ask that you bring a printout of your approved application, or a digital copy including the ESTA number to cruise check-in to speed immigration processing.
    Customize Your Voyage – Manage Booking for Guests – Princess Cruises
    Maximize your cruise experience with Princess Cruises: Book excursions, spa appointments, flights and more for an unforgettable journey!

    Disney Cruises

    Disney : All cruise guests are required to complete the online check-in process on the cruise company web site http://disneycruise.disney.go.com, using your cruise confirmation reference from your Travel Documents. Failure to do so will delay you viewing or downloading your E-Docs.
    You are advised to download the App prior to travel. This is available on the App Store and Google Play Store. The app allows you to: Check in for your cruise. Make restaurant reservations. Reserve shore excursions. Track onboard spending. Further information can be found on the following links: https://disneycruise.disney.go.com/featured/navigator-app/
    Ensure you have a minimum of 6 months on your passport from the date of your return, that you have checked with the relevant embassies for visa requirements and that you have completed your ESTA.
    We ask that you bring a printout of your approved application, or a digital copy including the ESTA number to cruise check-in to speed immigration processing.

    Tipping or Gratuities

    On Cruise Lines it is customary to offer tips to staff members for their good service and personal attention.
    You can pre-pay your service charge as part of your booking and this will be shared among Dining Services Staff, Stateroom Attendants and Other Housekeeping Services Personnel.
    Alternatively, you may pay in cash at the end of your cruise directly to the crew members you wish to recognise for their service.
    Gratuities are discretionary so in the unlikely event that a guest on board being charged the daily automatic gratuity does not receive satisfactory service, guests may request to modify (increase, decrease or remove) the daily amount by visiting Guest Services during their cruise.

    The benefits of pre-paying service charges:
    • When you pre-pay the gratuities as part of your booking, it is normally cheaper than paying once onboard .
    • Pre-paying service charges gives you peace of mind making the process seamless for when you get on board.
    • Avoid fluctuating exchange rates onboard
    • Helps you plan your holiday budget in advance
    • Gratuities are payable in US dollars (some ships in Euro) on board. If you pre-pay you don’t have to take extra cash on board or any additional foreign currency.
    • Some Cruise Lines no longer provide the pre-paid gratuity vouchers for guests to give to the appropriate crew member on the last evening of the cruise. Please be assured though that the crew will be aware that you have paid your gratuities.
    • A 15 % gratuity will automatically be added to your bar bill or wine bill when you are served and for services in the Spa or Salon

    Cruising passport validity

    Guidance only – Cruising inside the Caribbean, USA, or Canada, your passport must be valid for 6 month after the last day of your holiday. Cruising in the Mediterranean, your passport must have a validity of 3 months after the last day of your holiday. These may change and it is the responsibility of the passenger traveling to ensure passport information is correct.

    Safety and well being

    A muster drill is a mandatory exercise with the objective to familiarise all guests and crew with the location (muster station) where they are to assemble in the unlikely event of an emergency.
    Balconies and railings represent an important safety feature on all ships.
    Even though balconies and railings exceed the height requirements of similar shore-side features, it is important that guests do not climb or sit on railings for their own safety.

    Dining

    Dining on board has 2 tradition evening dining times on cruises, 6.30 pm and 8.30pm. My time dining is an option where you arrive a different times and wait to be seated. Preference for Dining should be indicated at the time of booking.

    Disney Account Registration

    Register with Disney and get planning straight away. https://www.disneyworld.co.uk/login?returnUrl=%2Fplan%2F. My Disney lets you seamlessly log into services and experiences across The Walt Disney Family of Companies, such as Disney+, ESPN, Walt Disney World, and more.

    Bands

    Purchase your bands locally, add your credit card for ease of payment and allowances for any children traveling.

    Dining at Disney

    With over 170 places to eat, there is something for everyone in the family. Book your dining experience on My Disney experience app.

    Quick Dining Plan

    Check with us at time of booking to see if this is available.

    Disney Tickets

    Use from your first full day for 14 consecutive days.

    Online Payment Invoice

    For D and E booking references you can use our most secure method of Online payment. This link can be found on your Invoice. For all other booking references please call American Holidays.

    Invoice

    Please quality check your invoice upon receipt. Ensure Names, dates of birth, room type, hotel address, dates of Travel area all correct. Confirmation references and online registration links for Cruises, Private Villas /Home etc, can all be found on the invoice along with the official ETA (Canada Electronic Travel Authorisation and the official ESTA (Electronic system Travel Authorisation) for your safety and convenience.

    Travel Documents

    Your travel documents hold all the information you need for travel. You will receive Electronic Documents to the email 21 days pre departure. Airline reference to register with the airline App and to enable you to check in with in 24 hours of Departure is also on these Travel Documents.

    Balance Reminders

    Your balance is due 16 week prior to departure and if booking inside 16 weeks we request the booking is paid in full please.

    Airline Reference

    Your Airline reference to use for the Airline app for registration and check in can be found on your final travel documents which will be emailed 21 Days in advance of travel.

    What is my baggage allowance?

    Your free allowance is one piece of luggage not to exceed 23kg per person. See your invoice for details of your allowance.
    Any extra checked bag will incur an additional charge of $50-$75, payable at check-in. When breaking your journey within the USA or Canada, you will be charged for all pieces of luggage on the internal flight. You are also allowed one personal item, e.g. hand bag or laptop.
    For further baggage queries please access your airline App.

    Can I check-in online?

    Check in opens 24 hours prior to departure. Please avail of online check-in using the airline reference provided in your documents to confirm your presence and download /print your boarding pass. At the Airport leave your baggage at the Bag Drop Desk. Please visit your relevant airlines website to do your online check in which can be found on your invoice. Random security checks do occur when checking in, if this is the case and you cannot check in online do proceed to the Airport and allow extra time for check in.

    How much time should I allow for check in?

    Airport arrival time, long haul routes it is recommended 3½ hours, or 2½ hours if you are travelling via the UK or Europe. You airline app will provide the departure Terminal and exact flight departure time.
    Note: Code share flights – A codeshare agreement is an aviation business arrangement where two or more airlines share the same flight. A seat can be purchased on one airline but is actually operated by a co-operating airline under a different flight number or code.

    Can I preassign my seats on the aircraft?

    United Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Airlines, JetBlue and Aer Lingus offer free seat assignment subject to availability. All other airlines charge for assigned seats. You can go online to manage your booking or change your seats via the airline website, however this may incur a cost.

    Flight Tips

    Although we make every effort to keep your flight details up to date, airlines can sometimes make last minute changes to their schedules and departure terminal. Before travelling to the airport we recommend that you check your flight time and terminal departure have not changed by visiting the airline website.
    Please note that a paper ticket is no longer required for check in, it is only the airline reference needed.
    To pass through security, and at the boarding gate for your flight, you will need to present a mobile boarding pass or a paper boarding pass printed out by you once checked in or a paper boarding pass picked up from the check-in desk.
    Airline seating: Pre-assigned paid or free seating can never be guaranteed and may change due to Airline operational reasons.

    Zika

    Please be advised of the current travel advisory due to the Zika Virus, a mosquito related illness. “People travelling particularly when pregnant are asked to follow the advice of the National Travel Health Network and Centre https://www.hpsc.ie/a-z/vectorborne/zika/factsheet/listofaffectedcountries , https://www.gov.uk/guidance/zika-virus-country-specific-risk”

    Pregnancy

    Please check with your doctor before you travel. Each airline has its own set of rules and a cut off point. Generally if you are more than 27 weeks pregnant at the time of your return flight the airline can insist on a medical certificate stating you are fit to fly and confirming your due date. If you are more than 32 weeks pregnant at the time of your return flight they may refuse to carry you.
    Cruise Most Cruise lines cannot accept guests who will have entered their 24th week of pregnancy at any time during the cruise.
    A doctor’s medical certificate establishing your due date and fitness to travel is required in Advance.
    Note: Insurance companies may have additional separate travel restrictions on their policy.

    Infinity Pools

    Infinity pools are becoming more popular and often offer one of the best viewpoints from your accommodation. Due to these often been in an elevated position and sometimes with unprotected drops from the edge, please do not stand, sit, or lean over the sides. If you do have children travelling with you, please also ensure they are supervised.

    Private Swimming Pools

    Many properties feature private swimming pools or direct pool access rooms. These are often not supervised. Upon arrival we recommend you familiarise yourself with the swimming pool layout, the depth of the pool and any safety information located by the entrance or within any in room literature.

    Balcony Safety

    Balcony standards vary from country to country – if your room has a balcony, it may be of a lower height than the required standards. We strongly advise not to lean over any balcony railings. If you have children in your party, please also pay attention to any potential gaps or climbing allurements within the balcony design and ensure that children are always supervised when using any balcony facility.

    Safety Standards and Emergency contact information

    Safety standards differ around the world from what you may be used to, and we wanted to take an opportunity to highlight some aspects of your accommodation which may differ.
    Call us in the event of an emergency. Our Emergency phone number is on your Emailed Travel documents. Safety First”, “Think Safety, Act Safely”.

    Upcoming European Travel Changes

    The European Union are introducing changes for travel to Europe.
    The EES (EU Entry/Exit System) will replace the stamping of passports which currently takes place. From 10th November 2024, upon arrival to an EU country, you will have your photograph taken and fingerprints scanned. There may be a slight wait at immigration the first time you travel to the EU after this date as your images will be added to the database. The ETIAS system (European Travel Information and Authorisation System, similar to the US Esta) is scheduled for mid-2025. Further details on the process for applying for your ETIAS will be updated here once the information is published.
    For more information, ABTA have put together a guide which you can access here.
    More information on EES can be found here – EES – European Union (europa.eu).
    The official ETIAS website is www.europa.eu/etias.
    The above guidance is for UK and NI Passport holders only.

    Supplier Terms and Conditions

    At American Holidays, we strive do deliver the best holiday experience to our customers, and that involves carefully choosing who we work with. Click the links below to learn about our supplier standards.
    https://www.americanholidays.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Travelopia-Minimum-Standards-for-Sustainable-and-Responsible-Travel.pdf
    https://www.americanholidays.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Travelopia-Supplier-Code-of-Conduct-January-2022.pdf

    Deposits and change fees

    Deposits are non refundable, upon changing bookings change fees are collected and are non refundable.

    Cancellations and Changes to bookings

    Email queries can be sent to Changes@americanholidays.com. Please note, No name changes or changes inside 30 days of travel permitted. For date changes any increased cost and change fees £60 per person or €75 per person must be paid a the time of change.

    Booking Terms & Conditions

    Full booking terms and conditions can be found HERE

    Passport

    All passengers are required to have a valid in date passport. Adults, children & infants must all hold an individual passport. Please ensure your passport is valid for travel.

    Passport Validity

    Travel inside the USA & Canada, passport validity is your length of stay. Cruising inside the Caribbean, USA, or Canada, your passport must be valid for 6 month after the las t day of your holiday. Cruising inside the Mediterranean, your passport must have a validity of 3 months after the last day of your holiday.

    Destination and All Travel Advice

    For the latest official local government advice on travel please see https://www.dfa.ie , https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice

    Entry Requirements to Canada (ETA)

    An Electronic Travel Authorization will be electronically tagged to your valid passport once completed.
    Entry requirement for visa exempt foreign nationals who fly to Canada. This regulation is mandatory since 2016 and apply to all Irish and British passport holders entering Canada by Air. Applying for an Eta is a simple process and just takes a few minutes. You will need your passport a credit card (Via or Mastercard), and an email address. The cost is $7 Canadian Dollars. It will be valid for up to 5 years.
    For more information please click the following link http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/visit/
    To apply for an Eta please click the following link http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/visit/eta-start.asp

    Entry Requirements to USA (ESTA)

    An Electronic Travel Authorization will be electronically tagged to your valid passport once completed.
    All eligible travellers seeking to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) for under 90 days must hold a valid visa 72 hours before you travel. The ESTA is now subject to enhanced security requirements and some countries you may have previously visited may also affect you receiving an ESTA. Further details, the application form and fee can be found here https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta/.

    Entry Requirements to Mexico (VISITAX)

    Mexico has now introduced the VisiTax which must be paid by all visitors. The cost of this is 259MXP per person (12GBP/12EUR). The tax is paid online on the following link http://visitax.gob.mx/ We strongly advise you pay this prior to leaving the UK/Ireland and ensure you travel with either a printed or digital copy of your receipt as you will need to show this when you depart Mexico.

    Entry Requirements to Barbados

    Immigration and Customs Entry forms must be completed for Barbados online 72 hours prior to arrival : https://travelform.gov.bb/

    Entry requirements to Dominican Republic

    Immigration and Customs Entry and Exit forms must be completed for the Dominican Republic: https://viajerodigital.mitur.gob.do/english/

    Insurance

    All package holidays must have Travel insurance cover in place. Insurance should be added at your time of booking as this ensures your holiday is protected from the start and also and deposit paid will be protected in the event of an insurable and unforeseen change or cancellation.

    Credit Card

    Credit card is necessary when traveling within the USA and Canada. Money is not blocked on a Credit card for incidentals like it can be on a Debit card. Credit cards are more protected to fraud as Debit cards offer direct access to your bank account.

    Sustainability

    Learn more about our sustainability practices, including our concerns regarding the impact of travel in the environment and communities visited. Read more here.

    Mobile Apps

    https://www.universalorlando.com/web/en/us/landing-page/mobile-app

    Universal Parks

    Volcano Bay, Islands of Adventure, Universal Studios and Universal Epic opening May 25, and lets not forget the fabulous City walk zone for dining, dancing and much more.

    Early Access

    Access Parks 1 hour prior to normal opening when you stay at the Loews Portofino, Hard Rock, Loews Royal Pacific or Loews Sapphire.

    Park Times and Restrictions

    During the autumn and winter season, Volcano Bay is closed on selected dates. Please see resort hours for opening times. https://www.universalorlando.com/web/en/gb/plan-your-visit/hours-information/park-hours

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