TOUR INFORMATION
The tour will be led by the Director and the Associate Director of Metamorfosis Documentation Project, Armando Espinosa Prieto and Craig Johnson, both of whom are bilingual and have lived for extensive periods of time in Latin America.
ACCOMMODATIONS
We have reserved Casa Oaxaca, the best available five star boutique hotel in Oaxaca.
A single rate reflects the additional cost of a single traveler not sharing a room in double occupancy. Double rates apply per person based on double occupancy.
TRAVEL
This tour includes round trip transfers between the airport and the hotel in Oaxaca on the first and last days of the tour, and ground travel for all tour activities in Oaxaca.
BOOKS FOR LOAN
We have several books featuring Oaxacan folk art, museums, archaeological sites and some of the specific artists we will be visiting that we will make available on a loaner basis for those of you interested in perusing them prior to the tour. You will be sent a list and description of the books after you register.
CURRENCY
Like many other Latin American countries, the economy is closely tied to the US Dollar, so it is not necessary to exchange US Dollars prior to, or even during, your travels. However, you may wish to use your ATM card to withdraw currency in pesos – you will get the best exchange rate, a minimal fee for use of the Mexican bank’s ATM (no foreign currency exchange charges), and the ATM’s are widely available. You should bring some U.S. dollars or travelers’ checks as a backup reserve. Traveler’s checks are advisable for security purposes, but opportunities to change them are limited, so a judicious mix of travelers’ checks and cash (in small denominations) is best. U.S. dollars are widely accepted but notes must be in good condition - any torn or defaced notes or those with bank stamps may be refused. There are approximately 13.5 Pesos to the US Dollar (as of January 2011). For an up-to-date guide on current exchange rates go to www.xe.com .
BAGGAGE
In addition to your main luggage, we recommend you bring a day pack or shoulder bag to carry what you need each day – camera, sunscreen, water, etc.
DRESS
The weather is usually mild in Oaxaca in the fall but the nights can be chilly. Light cottons with a jacket or sweater, comfortable walking shoes and a hat or sunscreen are good choices
PURCHASES – SHIPPING
In the event you wish to purchase some art or folk art during your visit, we have made arrangements with a reputable shipping company for the option of shipping items to your home. Charges for lighter items, including insurance, are very reasonable; and Armando and Craig will take care of any purchases you may make, from the time of purchase to the complete arrangements for packing and shipping. The estimated charges will be available to you when you’re contemplating your purchase, and will reflect ONLY the actual charges of the shipping company. As Armando and Craig will be returning to New Mexico via private vehicle pulling an enclosed trailer, we will be able to quote you markedly reduced shipping prices on any heavier and / or larger items, which would otherwise entail much more expensive charges if using the shipping company.
STAYING HEALTHY
Wash hands often with soap and water.
Food (including fresh salads and sauces) and drinks (including ice) served in good restaurants are safe.
Be cautious when eating at markets or from street vendors – avoid raw vegetables or fruits (unless YOU peel them) and unpackaged food, unless freshly cooked. Drink only drinks in cans or bottles – no ice or poured juices or drinks.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
IMPORTANT - PLEASE NOTE:
Anytime, anywhere unexpected events can complicate even the best-planned trip. We have made every reasonable effort to make your trip as enjoyable and worry free as possible. Cancellations, delays, accidents and other problems can and do arise. Any of these could affect your schedule, health, property and trip deposits or payments. While we, acting only as agents, cannot be held responsible, if problems do arise we do not want to see any of our clients inconvenienced or penalized. Your upcoming trip is a significant investment which you should protect.
WE REQUIRE YOU PURCHASE TRAVEL INSURANCE.
TRAVEL INSURANCE COVERAGES AND PREMIUMS:
We can provide a reputable website (the one that we use) that offers various policies from several insurance companies, to allow you to purchase policies tailored to your needs. We are not insurance agents. The specific details of the coverage and the exclusions can be verified through the website and the insurance companies. We will make no recommendation of coverages. It is up to each traveler to select the coverage that is best for them, their circumstances and their budget. We will ask for a copy of your travel insurance document when you make your final payment for the tour.
All U.S. citizens are required to have a valid U.S. passport when returning to the United States by air; and to avoid possible problems when entering Mexico, your passport should be valid for six months after your entrance date. It is your responsibility to make sure that you have and carry with you the necessary documentation. Please ask us if you have any questions regarding your documentation.
A welcome packet, with specific information for your trip, including detailed contact information, etc, will be provided to upon registration. We also have several books featuring Oaxacan folk art, museums, archaeological sites and some of the specific artists we will be visiting that we will make available on a loaner basis for those of you interested in perusing them prior to the tour. Additional printed information / brochures / maps will be provided to you at the time of travel with our personal recommendations for your consideration during your free time – museums, restaurants, art galleries, etc.