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Viaggio Travel offers complete travel services that range from the simplest of travel plans to some of the most sophisticated travel itineraries. We are passionate about helping you plan your well-deserved vacation. We work with busy families and couples who are burnt out by the everyday work and schedules. We can help you create your ideal getaway so that you can reset, relax, and reconnect with each other. In a world where your time is precious, why not leave the stress and hassles of planning your next vacation to us...all you must do is pack, and enjoy your trip!! …

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10 wheelchair-accessible tour companies that are changing the travel industry

Morocco Accessible Travel Consultants 1

Planning a trip as a wheelchair user can be complicated, to say the least. Searching hours-on-end for the perfect accessible hotel, figuring out which modes of transportation are accessible , and compiling lists of accessible must-see attractions can certainly be stressful and time-consuming. But what if there was a way to eliminate a lot of the stress that comes with planning a wheelchair-friendly vacation? Well, there is and I'd love to tell you all about it.

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Around the world, there are a variety of tour companies that specialize in accessibility. They organize accessible transportation and accommodations and know which attractions are accessible so that you don't have to plan anything. Instead, you can simply look forward to your vacation and know that all of the planning is in good hands.

Whether you want to see waterfalls in Iceland , roll on the equator in Ecuador, go on a safari or something else, almost any experience is possible with the 10 companies that are featured below. Each one offers accessible tours, and while these are by no means the only accessibility-focused tour companies in the world, they are some of the best

Ability Adventures

If you have ever dreamed of visiting New Zealand , Ability Adventures can turn your dream into reality. They are New Zealand's outstanding accessible travel company and cater to all disabilities. Whether you are a wheelchair user, hard of hearing, blind or a slow walker, they have a plethora of tour options to suit your accessibility needs. You can explore national parks, see heritage sites, cruise fjords or even go bungee jumping if you're feeling particularly adventurous. (Note that New Zealand continues to be closed to foreign travelers in 2021 due to the COVID pandemic.) Learn more about Ability Adventures here .

Related: 5 tips for going on a cruise as a wheelchair user

Accessible Caribbean Vacations

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After the past year and a half, the Caribbean has never sounded so great, right?! If relaxing on a Caribbean island sounds nice to you, consider checking out Accessible Caribbean Vacations. This company offers accessible tours and shore excursions in more than 20 Caribbean destinations. They can also book accessible cruises for guests and arrange fully accessible shore excursions for each port of call. Whether you're cruising the Caribbean or flying in to a destination, Accessible Caribbean Vacations can be sure that you have a fun and accessible experience. Learn more about Accessible Caribbean Vacations here .

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Europe has so many destinations that are worth visiting, but no matter which part of Europe you're most interested in, there is a good chance that Disabled Accessible Travel offers tours there. The company offers accessible shore excursions, accessible land-based tours, and mobility equipment rental. From popular destinations like Italy and Spain to lesser-known places like Latvia, Disabled Accessible Travel can take care of all of your accessibility needs. Learn more about Disabled Accessible Travel here .

Related: 7 air travel tips for wheelchair users

Epic Enabled

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Going on a safari is on most people's bucket list and Epic Enabled is making that once-in-a-lifetime experience possible for travelers with disabilities in South Africa. The company leads monthly group tours on safari in Kruger National Park and a private game reserve with an accessible safari truck, but accessible tours are also available in the beautiful city of Cape Town. If you want to see lions, elephants, giraffes, hippos and more in their natural environment, consider going on a safari with Epic Enabled. Learn more about Epic Enabled here .

Related: 12 Unusual Safaris You Can Try Around the World

Iceland Unlimited

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Do you want to see the northern lights , swim in hot springs or view majestic waterfalls? If so, Iceland could be the ideal destination for you. Iceland Unlimited's founder and owner, Jón Gunnar Benjaminsson, is a wheelchair user himself, so he knows firsthand which activities to recommend to fellow wheelchair users. His company can organize accessible trips throughout the entire country. Learn more about Iceland Unlimited here .

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Central America is known for not being the most accommodating for wheelchair users, but when it comes to Costa Rica , it's a whole different story. Thanks to Il Viaggio Travel, wheelchair users can experience all that Costa Rica has to offer. Adapted transportation is available and you can go on customized tours to the rainforest, in the capital city of San Jose, or even try adaptive surfing at the country's best beaches. Learn more about Il Viaggio Travel here .

Related: These are the most wheelchair-accessible cities around the world

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South America is full of remarkable destinations that are worth experiencing, and if you are interested in visiting Ecuador and the Galapagos, Peru or Argentina, you need to check out Latin America for All. This company plans everything for you so that you can fully enjoy these three destinations. While accessibility between the three countries does vary to some degree, Latin America for All can customize your trip and make your itinerary as accessible for you as possible. Learn more about Latin America for All here .

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Morocco is a destination that I knew nothing about before visiting, but it quickly became one of my favorite places thanks to a phenomenal trip with Morocco Accessible Travel Consultants. The company has adapted transportation and can customize itineraries for each traveler, depending on the traveler's needs. You can explore popular cities like Casablanca, Fes, and Marrakech, or even stay in the Sahara desert. Morocco Accessible Travel Consultants also created an adapted camel saddle to give wheelchair users the ability to safely and comfortably ride a camel in the desert. Learn more about Morocco Accessible Travel Consultants here .

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Estonia is a European country that is often skipped over unless it falls on a cruise itinerary, but it is completely worth visiting whether you're on a Scandinavian cruise or not. The capital city of Tallinn is gorgeous, but there are accessible experiences outside of the city as well, including hiking/rolling on a smooth boardwalk trail in a bog in Lahemaa National Park. Saku Travel has accessible transportation that can get you around the country and the fantastic guides sure know how to show wheelchair users a good time. Learn more about Saku Travel here .

Wheel the World

Wheel the World has quickly become one of the leading companies devoted to accessible tours. They offer accessible tours in more than a dozen countries, providing transportation and plenty of accessible things to do, including some pretty adventurous and epic experiences. With Wheel the World, you can roll around Easter Island, soar on a zipline in Mexico or even go dune bashing in Qatar ... just to name a few. Learn more about Wheel the World here .

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Welcome to Viaggio Travel

Unrivaled Expertise for Unique Travel Experiences

we understand that every journey is unique, and we are here to make your travel dreams a reality. Whether you’re seeking an adventure-filled getaway, a romantic escape

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Tbilisi is the capital of the country of Georgia.

Kakheti,Georgia

Kakheti is a region formed in the 1990s in eastern Georgia.

Gori, Georgia

Gori is the fifth most populous city in Georgia.

We Maximize Your Vacation Experience the Right Way

Premier destination for unforgettable journeys through the breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Georgia.

At Viaggio Travel, we are more than just a travel company – we are your passport to the enchanting wonders of Georgia. Nestled between the Caucasus Mountains and the Black Sea, Georgia boasts a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty waiting to be explored.

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Creating Memories You Will Want to Revisit

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Embark on an adventure to Georgia's majestic peaks, where every trail promises breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences.

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Travel scams online banking HERO

How Can You Tell If a ‘Travel Club’ Is a Scam?

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A nationally recognized reporter, writer, and consumer advocate, Ed Perkins focuses on how travelers can find the best deals and avoid scams.

He is the author of "Online Travel" (2000) and "Business Travel: When It's Your Money" (2004), the first step-by-step guide specifically written for small business and self-employed professional travelers. He was also the co-author of the annual "Best Travel Deals" series from Consumers Union.

Perkins' advice for business travelers is featured on MyBusinessTravel.com , a website devoted to helping small business and self-employed professional travelers find the best value for their travel dollars.

Perkins was founding editor of Consumer Reports Travel Letter, one of the country's most influential travel publications, from which he retired in 1998. He has also written for Business Traveller magazine (London).

Perkins' travel expertise has led to frequent television appearances, including ABC's "Good Morning America" and "This Week with David Brinkley," "The CBS Evening News with Dan Rather," CNN, and numerous local TV and radio stations.

Before editing Consumer Reports Travel Letter, Perkins spent 25 years in travel research and consulting with assignments ranging from national tourism development strategies to the design of computer-based tourism models.

Born in Evanston, Illinois, Perkins lives in Ashland, Oregon with his wife.

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The idea of a “travel club” covers a wide range of organizations and activities, from scam-like timeshares to legitimate memberships that can save you money. All are certainly not equal.

Many are legitimate low-risk operations, such as AARP , AAA , and other independent travel promoters. The most reliable ones are those you’ll recognize the names of. Some resort chains call themselves “clubs,” like Club Med’s all-inclusive resorts . Membership to these is mostly harmless marketing hype, but can offer real discounts: The more exclusive organizations may be exempt from agreements that prohibit third-party agencies from slashing their rates.

Membership fees, if any, are usually nominal—often under $50 a year—and you can easily opt out if the club doesn’t deliver real value. All you have to lose is the minimal initial fee. The discounts they claim may be no better than you could get through other sources, but they’re usually not worse, either. For well-known travel brands like these ones, the scam risk is minimal.

How to Spot a Travel Club That’s a Scam

Others, however, pose a big financial risk. Some require stiff membership fees up front—usually several hundred up to thousands of dollars—and they may commit you to big annual fees indefinitely. They can certainly be honest in that they deliver what they promise; many travelers are happy with their memberships despite the risks and limitations. Others, however, ask you to pay big up front for some promised future benefit. These may or may not be honest; some are clearly outright scams, and others simply inflate the benefits and disguise the drawbacks.

According to law enforcement officials, oftentimes the promised “discount” and “savings” never materialize: The promoters provide prices that are no better than travelers can buy openly, through a wide range of discount sources, and the promised “dream” vacations never seem to become available. They’re selling pie in the sky, and Marie Callender is better at making pies.

The big-dollar travel clubs are the ones should be subject to your scam scrutiny. Although no approach is foolproof, you can usually find out what you need by asking and fact-checking a few specific questions. Here’s what you need to consider:

The Timeshare-Based Travel Club 

Many large travel “clubs” are nothing more than conventional timeshare operations, operating as clubs to avoid the unsavory reputation of timeshares. What they sell is guaranteed annual occupancy, in multiples of weeks, at a vacation area—typically a beach destination, maybe with rights to vacations in a string of different areas. And the questions you need to ask about them are the same as for a timeshare:

What Do I Actually Get?

Examine the offer in detail to find out exactly what it promises, in specific terms. Does it promise a guaranteed specific interval at a specific location? Does it promise enrollment in a recognized exchange system? Check the fine print on the exchange, especially for limitations on how you can use your exchange “points.”

Is There a Switch to the Bait?

Is the asking price the full price? Does the featured buy-in include everything you have to pay up front, or are you subject to additional fees and charges? Does the promotion say or hint that you’d be better off with a higher-level membership?  

What Is My Ongoing Obligation?

In most property-based clubs, your buy-in is only the start. You’re also on the hook for various monthly/yearly “maintenance” payments and assessments. And the operator typically reserves the right to increase these payments without your approval or right of refusal.

Is There Any Asset Value?

Some very high-end vacation clubs actually own a string of vacation properties; members share in the ownership of these properties, and the club operator agrees to repurchase for a reasonable price. But most mass-market vacation clubs offer no asset value to back up your initial “investment.” At best, you own your “membership” and can sell it or pass it along to your heirs. However, some deals are for the term of your life only and revert to the owner on your death.

Is There an Escape Clause or Resell Limitation?

Club promoters may not accept a return, even for a reduced price, and some timeshare-based clubs may limit your ability to resell. The travel literature is full of horror stories of people who just want to get rid of ongoing payments, even if it means giving the interest back to the promoter with no return.

The “Big-Discount” Travel Club

Other clubs promise they have access to large discounts on airfares, hotels, cruises, rental cars, tours, and just about any other travel service you can name. The ones that charge minimal fees are no more than a nuisance; if they don’t work out, you won’t have to refinance your house. But some ask for big membership fees, and those can be a big risk. As with timeshare clones, you have to ask some questions before you buy into one of them:

What’s My Exposure to Risk?

As with a timeshare, you have to check what you actually get, your future ongoing obligations, and, perhaps most importantly, your cancellation options. Check the fine print to make sure that the discounts are guaranteed. “Subject to availability” doesn’t cut it.  

Are the Claimed Discounts Real?

Challenge—and verify—all claimed “discount” deals. Don’t be gullible: Ask to see a list of currently-available deals, and check them through conventional search systems before you accept any broad claim that it will save you money.

Are the Posted Discount Prices Honest?

One hotel-discount membership organization I recently checked out posted some really attractive original prices. But when I went through to the final buy-it page, I found the initial prices did not include mandatory resort fees, taxes, and fees imposed by the travel club. The all-up total prices were about the same as I could get through Tripadvisor (SmarterTravel’s parent company) search links.

What Do Others Say?

The club’s promotional materials probably highlight gushing testimonials. Don’t take them at face value—promoters can easily satisfy enough travelers to elicit a few genuine rave reviews, which the company will then highlight. Instead, check with review and complaint sites like the Better Business Bureau , Yelp , Google reviews (which usually now appear simply by Googling a business), and any other online review source you like. Also, Google the club to see if it has generated any serious complaints—or, even worse, law enforcement actions.

Scam Rules to Know for Any Kind of Travel Club

Make sure any club you’re considering can pass an easy scam test. Often, you can answer the scam-or-not question before you even see the details of a club promotion. Initial claims often can offer some early scam clues:

Scam Clue 1: The promotion is claiming that you’re getting something “free.” No travel service of real value is ever free. The club promoter is making a profit somewhere along the process. Nothing is free. Repeat this to yourself as often as is necessary.

Scam Clue 2: A promotion claiming you’ve “won” something. If you didn’t knowingly sign up for a sweepstakes run by some outfit that had terms and conditions you agreed to, any out-of-the-blue “winner” notification is almost surely a scam.

Scam Clue 3 : A promotion claiming you’ve been “specially selected” for membership. A lot of robocalls are currently making this pitch. The only outcome you’ve been selected for is a fleecing.

Scam Clue 4 : A promotion demanding that you “act now” or lose the deal. If a deal is actually honest, it will still be there after you take a day or so to check it.

Scam Clue 5 : A promotion that poses as an investment. Some property-based clubs claim, or at least imply, that your membership is an investment. That’s just false for anything that’s not outright property ownership. Fractional ownership such as timeshare may be a good way to vacation to the same place every year—but it’s a lousy overall investment.

I can’t guarantee that following these guidelines can totally shield you from a scam (no one can). But they’re a good start to protecting yourself.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2015. It had been updated to reflect the most current information. Prior reporting by Calvin Hennick contributed to this story.

More from SmarterTravel:

  • How  to  Avoid  Counterfeit  Money  While  Traveling
  • 6  Cruise  Scams  You  Should  Never  Fall  For
  • Europe  Travel  Scams  to  Watch  Out  For

Consumer advocate Ed Perkins has been writing about travel for more than three decades. The founding editor of the Consumer Reports Travel Letter, he continues to inform travelers and fight consumer abuse every day at SmarterTravel.

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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Silca Viaggio travel pump review: Works well, but too big and too heavy

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I spend a lot of time traveling with a bike, and I’ve grown pretty adept at paring down my assortment of tools, spares, and accessories to the bare essentials. After all, many airlines charge a small fortune if your travel case is even a smidgeon overweight, and a failure to keep your grams in check here can cost you a lot of money.

But function is still important, and although I’ve gotten used to the idea of living with a mini-pump when I’m on the road, I sometimes miss the convenience of a proper floor pump when I’m getting everything together in my hotel room.

Silca has rapidly earned a reputation for well thought-out floor, frame, and mini-pumps — not to mention tools, bags, and other doodads — and the company recently debuted a dedicated travel model to the lineup called Viaggio. Having spent a lot of time with the Specialized Air Tool ComPak (a little heavy, poor gauge, so-so stability) and the Lezyne CNC Travel Drive (very good stability, a real gauge, but a little bulky) in the past, surely the Viaggio might have something more to offer?

viaggio travel reviews

The Silca of travel pumps

Not surprisingly given Silca’s other pumps, the Viaggio comes across as somewhat overbuilt and perhaps a little overly engineered for the task at hand.

The body is made of extruded 6061 aluminum, and the removable handle is not only machined from aluminum, but its shape mimics that of Silca’s SuperPista Ultimate model. Down below are two fold-down stainless steel feet. When fully assembled, the Viaggio stands nearly 60cm-tall — not far off from a “proper” floor pump.

Inside the Viaggio are two Silca trademark features: the leather u-cup main plunger is claimed to pump more efficiently, last longer, and be easier to service than conventional o-ring setups; and within the base is the same brass check valve that Silca has been using long before former Zipp technical director Josh Poertner acquired the company in 2013.

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Silca also equips the Viaggio with the same Hiro stainless steel chuck that’s used on its premium floor pumps. It holds valves tightly, and like the rest of the pump, is easy to service with available small parts when necessary. That head secures to the Viaggio body with a nifty magnetic dock, and although the Hiro only works with Presta valves, it can be removed to reveal a Schrader attachment underneath. In either case, the 99cm-long hose is comparable to most floor pumps — longer than some, in fact — which can be handy in tight quarters.

One thing that’s conspicuously absent is a physical pressure gauge. Instead, Silca uses the same wireless pressure sensor that’s found in the Tattico mini-pump, which sends the measured pressure via Bluetooth to a smartphone running the free iGauge app. No doubt, such an arrangement comes across as needlessly complicated. However, Silca also claims the Viaggio’s +/-0.5psi claimed accuracy is far better than the compromised physical gauges you usually find in this category.

You can also store several bike profiles in the app, each with preset pressure targets and alerts when you’ve hit those targets. Silca claims a 100-hour battery life (actual use time, not standby time), and the gauge shuts off completely when the pump isn’t being used. When the battery does eventually run out of juice, the CR2032 coin cell should be pretty easy to source.

viaggio travel reviews

One other aspect that is decidedly Silca-esque is the price of the Viaggio. At US$275 / AU$440 / £275 / €245, it’s unquestionably a luxury item for cyclists that only insist on the best for their S&S-equipped custom Mosaic or Baum. But hey, it also comes with a waxed canvas storage case that doubles as a tool roll, along with the bragging rights that come with the fact that you spent more on your travel pump than most cyclists spend on their everyday pump at home.

Surprise, surprise — it works well

Make fun of the Viaggio all you want. The fact of the matter is that it does actually work quite well, and Silca has done a good job of balancing effort vs. air volume here. The relatively small-diameter barrel doesn’t push enough air to make the Viaggio a great option for impatient traveling mountain bikers (especially if they’re running new-school higher-volume 29er or 27+ tire setups), nor is it well-suited for seating stubborn tubeless setups. But for most road, gravel, and ‘cross bikes, it feels just about right to me.

I counted a reasonable 34 strokes to inflate a 700x25c (26mm actual width) tire to 80psi, compared to 44 for the Specialized Air Tool ComPak, or 26 for Silca’s latest Super Pista Digital floor pump.

viaggio travel reviews

The 60cm assembled height is a touch shorter than what you’ll find on most at-home pumps, but it’s still an improvement over the Lezyne and Specialized (both of which are about 10cm shorter still). That meaty aluminum handle also feels very substantial in your hands and provides a reassuringly sturdy grip. The flip-out steel feet aren’t particularly stable, though, and I couldn’t help but wonder if Silca could have done some sort of similar slide-on aluminum base instead. I mean, the dovetail runs the full length of the extruded aluminum body, so why now, right?

That said, I was very pleasantly surprised with the Bluetooth-enabled wireless pressure sensor. I was initially expecting this aspect of the Viaggio to be more trouble than it was worth, but as compared to the skimpy physical gauges that are normally found on travel pumps, the display on the iGauge app is much easier to read with big, bright digits that are legible even if you just leave your phone on the floor. The preset audible pressure target alarms and stored profiles are quite nice, too, and the whole system is very straightforward to use and pleasantly responsive.

viaggio travel reviews

Compared to the handful of standalone digital gauges I had on hand, the Viaggio’s onboard digital gauge seemed dead-on, too. In fact, CyclingTips Australian tech editor Dave Rome recently verified the fantastic accuracy of Silca’s Tattico Bluetooth as part of an upcoming mini-pump test, and given that the Viaggio uses the same sensor, that accuracy should carry over here as well. So while this whole thing still comes across as a little gimmicky, I also can’t deny that it works, either.

But maybe it’s too good in some ways

As good as it is, I’m not entirely sure how I feel about how thoroughly the Viaggio is designed and built. Generally speaking, I’m always in favor of products that are designed with longevity and serviceability in mind, and to that end, Silca has done a good job. The Viaggio is mostly made of metal, it’s straightforward to take apart, and there’s generally an air of quality around the whole thing.

viaggio travel reviews

But then again, we’re also talking about a travel pump that isn’t likely to see a huge amount of heavy-duty use, so I’m not sure how many people will ever put that longevity to the test. That said, if something on the Viaggio does fail, it’s likely to be the plastic base that houses the Bluetooth pressure sensor and anchors the fold-out feet. As compared to the rest of the pump, this feels like a distinct weak point, and is a little disappointing to see given the price point.

Perhaps more important in this case, however, is how all of that affects the Viaggio’s size and weight. Sure, it feels substantial when you’re using it, but it’s also pretty big and heavy. The Viaggio is still 58cm-long when broken down, and it’s also a weighty 1.01kg (without the travel case). Considering the importance of minimizing weight when it comes to airline regulations, this seems like a miss to me. As I said at the beginning of this review, when you’re talking about weight limits and big fees, a few grams can cost big bucks.

No question, the Viaggio is an impressively nice piece of kit, and the fact that the competition here is comparatively mediocre makes the Viaggio stand out even more. But I’m also coming from the standpoint of someone who trims down the seatpost on his travel bike to save every bit of size and weight, and given that I already have to travel with a hand pump as it is (since CO2 cartridges can’t be transported by air), I’m not sure how necessary a dedicated travel pump is to begin with.

viaggio travel reviews

Personally, I wish Silca had been more obsessive about weight and size when designing the Viaggio, given that those are obviously higher priorities relative to a floor pump when it comes to travel. If your plan is to keep the Viaggio in your vehicle, than neither of those things is a big deal. But if you’re considering a Viaggio for airline travel, I’m not as convinced.

If you absolutely have to have the best, this is it, minor flaws and all. But at least for my needs, I’m more than comfortable just bringing Silca’s Tattico Bluetooth mini-pump instead (or a good mini-pump and a separate digital gauge). Sure, it takes longer to inflate tires with that thing, but it does the job, and uses the same Bluetooth pressure sensor and handy iGauge app. As a result, it offers the same level of accuracy, but it takes up a lot less room, and doesn’t add any redundant weight.

And for me, that’s more than good enough.

www.silca.cc

viaggio travel reviews

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carback bike radar makes big promises\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"rider crashes 25 meters down ravine, climbs out, and doesn\u0027t come last in giro d\u0027italia \u0027queen stage\u0027","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/giro-ditalia\/giro-ditalia-jenthe-biermans-crashes-25-meters-down-ravine\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/giro-ditalia\/giro-ditalia-jenthe-biermans-crashes-25-meters-down-ravine\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"rider crashes 25 meters down ravine, climbs out, and doesn\u0027t come last in giro d\u0027italia \u0027queen stage\u0027\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/giro-ditalia\/giro-ditalia-jenthe-biermans-crashes-25-meters-down-ravine\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"rider crashes 25 meters down ravine, climbs out, and doesn\u0027t come last in giro d\u0027italia \u0027queen stage\u0027\"}}\u0027>\n rider crashes 25 meters down ravine, climbs out, and doesn\u0027t come last in giro d\u0027italia \u0027queen stage\u0027\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"3-time tour de france stage winner matej mohori\u010d is racing unbound gravel","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/gravel\/gravel-racing\/3-time-tour-de-france-stage-winner-matej-mohoric-is-racing-unbound-gravel\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/gravel\/gravel-racing\/3-time-tour-de-france-stage-winner-matej-mohoric-is-racing-unbound-gravel\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"3-time tour de france stage winner matej mohori\u010d is racing unbound gravel\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/gravel\/gravel-racing\/3-time-tour-de-france-stage-winner-matej-mohoric-is-racing-unbound-gravel\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"3-time tour de france stage winner matej mohori\u010d is racing unbound gravel\"}}\u0027>\n 3-time tour de france stage winner matej mohori\u010d is racing unbound gravel\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"notebook: mart\u00ednez exasperated by ineos inertia, o\u0027connor and thomas explain futility of following poga\u010dar","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/giro-ditalia\/notebook-martinez-exasperated-by-ineos-inertia-oconnor-and-thomas-explain-futility-of-following-pogacar\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/giro-ditalia\/notebook-martinez-exasperated-by-ineos-inertia-oconnor-and-thomas-explain-futility-of-following-pogacar\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"notebook: mart\u00ednez exasperated by ineos inertia, o\u0027connor and thomas explain futility of following poga\u010dar\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/giro-ditalia\/notebook-martinez-exasperated-by-ineos-inertia-oconnor-and-thomas-explain-futility-of-following-pogacar\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"notebook: mart\u00ednez exasperated by ineos inertia, o\u0027connor and thomas explain futility of following poga\u010dar\"}}\u0027>\n notebook: mart\u00ednez exasperated by ineos inertia, o\u0027connor and thomas explain futility of following poga\u010dar\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"opinion: kona bikes relaunch \u2013 a return to an age of passion over profit","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/news\/opinion-kona-bikes-relaunch-a-return-to-an-age-of-passion-over-profit\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/news\/opinion-kona-bikes-relaunch-a-return-to-an-age-of-passion-over-profit\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"opinion: kona bikes relaunch \u2013 a return to an age of passion over profit\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/news\/opinion-kona-bikes-relaunch-a-return-to-an-age-of-passion-over-profit\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"opinion: kona bikes relaunch \u2013 a return to an age of passion over profit\"}}\u0027>\n opinion: kona bikes relaunch \u2013 a return to an age of passion over profit\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"bike check: the pinarello dogma f of geraint thomas and ineos grenadiers","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/giro-ditalia\/bike-check-the-pinarello-dogma-f-of-geraint-thomas-and-ineos-grenadiers\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/giro-ditalia\/bike-check-the-pinarello-dogma-f-of-geraint-thomas-and-ineos-grenadiers\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"bike check: the pinarello dogma f of geraint thomas and ineos grenadiers\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/giro-ditalia\/bike-check-the-pinarello-dogma-f-of-geraint-thomas-and-ineos-grenadiers\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"bike check: the pinarello dogma f of geraint thomas and ineos grenadiers\"}}\u0027>\n bike check: the pinarello dogma f of geraint thomas and ineos grenadiers\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "}]' > >", "name": "footer-menu", "type": "link"}}'>advertise >", "name": "footer-menu", "type": "link"}}'>privacy policy >", "name": "footer-menu", "type": "link"}}'>contact >", "name": 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viaggio travel reviews

Viaggio Italia

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Viaggio italia reviews & ratings, amazing and inspiring.

Very interesting way to see those places in Italy you wont see on an ave...

Mitici vi adoro grazie per quello che fate Legendary I love you thank you for what you do

exceeded our expectations in every regard

Our two recent trips (The Best of Italy and The Northern Lakes) with Gary and Alexia from Viaggio Italia exceeded our expectations in every regard. Our tours ...AND ...

AMAZING and would rank amongst the BEST of our overseas trips

Truly unique and memorable experience.

Amazing attention to detail by Gary and Alexia creates a truly unique and memorable experience. Their knowledge of the local areas visited and their ability to acces...

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About the company.

Viaggio Italia Travel is a family-owned company specialising in escorted small group tours of Italy. We go out of our way to offer great value and excellent personal service.

An important difference between us and similar companies is that we – the owners - accompany our guests on every tour. You won't be led by an employee but by the owners of the company: and no-one has a higher interest in making sure you have a fabulous time on tour.

Five principles underpin our approach to every Viaggio Italia tour.

Principle 1: Easy pace

A Viaggio Italia tour has an easy pace. We aim to give you time to get a ‘feel’ for where you are: to get to know the neighbourhoods, to see how the locals live... We’ve seen many tours that try to fit in too many locations; rushing around so much that everything becomes a blur.

On a Viaggio Italia tour, we try to stay a minimum of three nights in each location. Less time spent moving from place to place means more time to soak up the atmosphere and the sights.

Principle 2: Small groups

We limit our group sizes to 12: small enough to feel like you’re exploring independently, but big enough to create a good social vibe. With a small group everything is quicker and easier. You spend less time waiting and more time taking it all in!

They also mean more one-on-one time with your guides and plenty of opportunity to ask questions and take advantage of their wealth of local knowledge. Also, our smaller groups can stay at smaller properties with character, closer to the action.

Principle 3: A personal touch  

When you come on a Viaggio Italia tour, we are taking you with us on a wonderful holiday. We are there to assist you every day.  You will be our personal guest!

Principle 4: Value for money

For most of us, travel is a luxury and getting value for money is important. We source the best quality partners at the best possible price so we can offer you great value.

Principle 5: Great expert partners

Over time, we have identified great partners in Italy: hotels, transport options and tour guides. You just can’t beat the detailed knowledge a local expert can provide, so wherever we go you’ll have excellent and experienced tour guides to give you a true local perspective.

Come with us on a Viaggio Italia Travel tour and find out why we are so captivated by this wonderful country!

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Pine Knoll Lodge & Cabins

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Viaggio Travel Club Reviews

Viaggio Travel Club is a travel club that offers its members exclusive deals on vacations and travel-related products and services. The club has been in business for more than 25 years and has a large and loyal membership base.

Viaggio Travel Club members enjoy a wide variety of benefits, including discounts on travel packages, hotel stays, car rentals, and more. Members can also take advantage of exclusive deals on cruises, theme park tickets, and other special offers.

One of the great things about Viaggio Travel Club is that there is no annual fee. In addition, members can cancel their membership at any time without penalty.

So what do people think of Viaggio Travel Club? Overall, the reviews are very positive. Members report saving a lot of money on their vacations and enjoying a wide variety of exclusive deals.

One common complaint is that the club’s website is a bit outdated and could use some improvement. However, overall, members are very happy with Viaggio Travel Club and would recommend it to anyone looking for great deals on travel.

  • 1 Are there any legitimate travel clubs?
  • 2 What are travel clubs?
  • 3 How do you get out of a travel club?
  • 4 What is better than a timeshare?
  • 5 How much does it cost to be in a travel club?
  • 6 Can I cancel a travel club membership?
  • 7 What is the difference between timeshare and travel club?

Are there any legitimate travel clubs?

There are many travel clubs available, but are any of them legitimate? Let’s take a look.

The first thing to consider is what a travel club actually is. Basically, a travel club is a group of people who come together to enjoy discounted travel. The discounts can come in a variety of ways, such as through group rates, early booking discounts, or special deals negotiated with travel providers.

There are many legitimate travel clubs available, and the best way to find one is to do your research. The most reputable clubs will have been in business for many years and will have a good reputation. They will also have a solid membership base.

One of the best-known and most reputable travel clubs is the American Express Travel Club. This club has been in business for more than 25 years and has a large, satisfied membership base. It offers a wide range of travel services and discounts, and its members can take advantage of its expertise and insider connections to get the best deals on travel.

Other reputable clubs include the Travelers Club, the Costco Travel Club, and the AARP Travel Club. All of these clubs offer good deals on travel and have a solid reputation.

So, are there any legitimate travel clubs? Yes, there are! Do your research, and you’re sure to find one that’s right for you.

What are travel clubs?

Travel clubs are organizations that provide their members with discounts on travel-related products and services. Typically, members must pay a monthly or annual fee to join the club. In return, they receive access to exclusive deals on hotels, flights, car rentals, and other travel-related products and services.

There are a number of different travel clubs to choose from, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. Some clubs are specific to a certain type of travel, such as cruises or all-inclusive resorts. Others are more general, offering discounts on a wide variety of travel products and services.

The best way to decide if a travel club is right for you is to review the benefits and restrictions of each club. Then, compare the prices of the products and services you plan to purchase with the discounts offered by the club. If the discounts are significant, it may be worth joining the club.

What are the benefits of travel clubs?

The main benefit of travel clubs is the discounts they offer on travel products and services. This can save you a lot of money, especially if you plan to travel frequently.

In addition, many travel clubs offer other benefits, such as:

– Access to exclusive deals on hotels, flights, and other travel products and services

– The ability to book trips through the club’s exclusive online booking portal

– The chance to win free trips and other travel-related prizes

– Membership in a community of like-minded travelers

What are the drawbacks of travel clubs?

The main drawback of travel clubs is the cost of membership. In addition, some clubs have restrictions on who can join and how often you can travel. Make sure you read the terms and conditions of each club before signing up.

How do I choose a travel club?

The best way to choose a travel club is to review the benefits and restrictions of each club. Then, compare the prices of the products and services you plan to purchase with the discounts offered by the club. If the discounts are significant, it may be worth joining the club.

Also, consider what type of traveler you are. If you prefer to stay in all-inclusive resorts, a club that specializes in cruises or all-inclusive resorts may be a better fit for you. If you’re more of a DIY traveler, a club that offers discounts on a variety of travel products and services may be a better fit.

Finally, consider your budget. Some clubs have annual fees, while others require you to pay a monthly fee. Make sure the cost of membership is worth the discounts you’ll receive.

How do you get out of a travel club?

There are a few ways to get out of a travel club, but it depends on the contract you signed when you joined.

The first way to get out of a travel club is to find a loophole in the contract. Some contracts have a clause that allows you to leave the club if it ceases to operate. Other contracts have a clause that allows you to leave the club if the company goes bankrupt. If you can find a loophole in the contract, you can leave the club without any penalties.

The second way to get out of a travel club is to negotiate with the club. Some clubs will allow you to leave the club without any penalties if you pay a cancellation fee. Other clubs will allow you to leave the club, but they will keep the money you paid to join.

The third way to get out of a travel club is to file a lawsuit. If the club is refusing to let you leave the club or is charging you an excessive cancellation fee, you can file a lawsuit. However, this is a last resort and can be expensive and time-consuming.

What is better than a timeshare?

There are a lot of different types of vacation ownership out there, but what is better than a timeshare?

One of the things that makes a timeshare so great is the fact that you own a piece of property that you can use whenever you want. You don’t have to worry about renting a property or trying to find a place that’s available when you want it. You can also use your timeshare for a variety of different types of vacations.

But, what if you don’t want to own a property? What if you want to be able to use different properties all over the world? That’s where a vacation club comes in.

With a vacation club, you have access to a variety of different properties all over the world. This means that you can go on vacation whenever you want and you don’t have to worry about finding a place to stay. You can also choose the type of vacation that you want to go on.

If you’re looking for a vacation that’s relaxing and laid back, you can choose a property that’s located in a tropical area. If you want to go on a adventure, you can choose a property that’s located in the mountains.

The best thing about a vacation club is the fact that you can use it whenever you want. You don’t have to worry about booking a property or finding a time that’s available. You can also use it for multiple trips throughout the year.

If you’re looking for a better way to take vacation, a vacation club is the best option. You can use it for a variety of different types of trips and you don’t have to worry about finding a place to stay.

How much does it cost to be in a travel club?

How much does it cost to join a travel club?

This is a question that many people ask, and the answer can vary depending on the club. However, most clubs charge a membership fee, and this fee can range from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars.

In addition to the membership fee, there may also be other costs associated with joining a travel club. For example, some clubs require you to purchase a certain amount of travel credits in order to receive the best discounts. Others may charge an annual fee, or require you to make a minimum purchase each year.

So, what do you get for your money?

Well, most travel clubs offer a variety of benefits, including discounts on travel and accommodation, access to exclusive deals and special offers, and the chance to earn travel rewards.

Many clubs also offer a variety of resources, such as travel guides, destination information, and member forums, which can help you plan your next trip.

So, is it worth joining a travel club?

That depends on your individual needs and budget. However, if you’re looking for discounts on travel and accommodation, access to exclusive deals, and the chance to earn rewards, then a travel club may be the right choice for you.

Can I cancel a travel club membership?

Can I cancel my travel club membership?

In most cases, you can cancel your travel club membership. However, you may need to provide written notice to the club, and there may be cancellation fees.

It’s important to read the club’s membership agreement carefully to understand your rights and obligations. Generally, you have the right to cancel your membership at any time, for any reason. However, the club may impose a cancellation fee, and may require that you return any materials or privileges you have received from the club.

If you have any questions, or need help cancelling your membership, contact the club’s customer service department.

What is the difference between timeshare and travel club?

Timeshare and travel clubs are both vacation ownership programs that allow travelers to enjoy discounted rates on vacations. However, there are a few key differences between the two.

Timeshare resorts are typically larger properties that offer guests a variety of on-site amenities, such as restaurants, pools, and spas. Timeshare members typically have the option to book a unit at the resort for a specific week each year.

Travel clubs are smaller properties that typically offer guests a more intimate experience. Travel club members typically have the option to book a unit at the resort for any duration they choose.

Another key difference between timeshare and travel club memberships is that timeshare memberships are typically more expensive. Travel club memberships usually offer more value for the money, since members have the ability to choose the resort and duration of their stay.

If you’re considering purchasing a vacation ownership program, it’s important to understand the differences between timeshare and travel club memberships. By doing your research, you can choose the program that’s right for you and your family.

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Silca Viaggio Travel Pump: Quick Review

Silca Viaggio Travel Pump: Quick Review – by Grannygear

When I was at Sea Otter I was shown the Silca Viaggio Travel floor pump.  Designed for travel use and enclosed in a canvas bag that also could be used as a tool storage roll, the Viaggio is a thing of beauty.  Machined out of aluminum for the most part and then polished, it looks and feels ‘significant’.  

Also significant was the price at $275.00 USD.  I took some pics for the Sea Otter article and that was that. Or so I thought. Then, quite out of the blue, a package from Silca showed up at the door.  It was a rather long tube containing a Viaggio, bag and all. Well, hello there beautiful! Ciao!

Since then I have been taking it with me on road trips, using it in the garage, and seeing how it all worked across multiple types of bikes from road to Plus MTB.  Here is what I have found, but first, a few words from the Silca website :

What is it?

A highly refined collapsible floor pump with a Bluetooth® enabled pressure gauge accurate to 1% along with SILCA’s award-winning HIRO chuck. The pump folds down into a waxed-canvas tool roll for easy transport.

Who’s it for?

The uncompromising cyclist seeking a highly portable and packable floor pump that desires the volume, efficiency and accuracy of a full-sized SILCA floor pump .

Where is the gauge?” Those words were spoken by Mrs. Grannygear when I was unpacking it in the living room.  Well, basically she was holding it in her hands as she happened to be doing some calendar work on her smart phone.  Yes, there is no external gauge on the Viaggio as it uses an app driven by Bluetooth to inform you of the PSI/Bar levels in the tire.

I have to admit I was less than enthused about that part.  Really?  I need a phone to see what tire pressure the pump is accomplishing? That seemed to me like those pressure monitoring devices that sit on your valve stems or electronic shocks and shifters for ‘adventure’ bikes. In other words, a needless complication.  More on this later.

Everything I have sampled from Silca has been very well made.  Even the products that have not been a favorite of mine are lovely to look at and beautifully executed.  The ones I have loved, like the Ti water bottle cages and the tire levers, merge form and function at a high level.  The Viaggio is impressively made.  The machined handle that slides into the barrel extrusion with a soft *click*, storing there while capturing the usefully long hose…the magnetic attachment of the HIRO chuck, maybe the best air chuck I have used on a floor pump…the rebuildable nature of the internal parts…yes, it is costly, but it seems built to last and last.

The app is an interesting deal.  It makes sense in this case as it means the pump has no external gauge to increase weight and bulk as well as be damaged in travel.  I can see that being very useful for the Tattico mini pump, something that Guitar Ted tested a bit ago.  I have to say that using the app on my iPhone was simple and effective, allowing me to set my phone darn near across the room and still see what PSI I was getting to.  As well, it is accurate far and above what any analog gauge would offer on a typical floor pump.

In use, once you begin to pump up a tire, the app says hello to your Viaggio and begins to increment the ‘gauge’.  It takes a bit to settle down.  You pump a few strokes and then, after stopping any pumping motion, the readout will give you a solid number in a few seconds.  Simple.  Note that the number will fall quickly if the chuck is leaking at all at the Presta valve.  You can even set the app to pre-set values for individual bikes.  Cool.  I like.

However if this was a standard, non-travel, floor pump I would prefer to have a simple, large scale analog gauge, or even better, a digital type gauge on the pump itself (like the Silca Super Pista Digital Floor Pump has).  That said, for this travel application, having no gauge works.  If the battery, which is a ‘coin’ type, stored in the base of the pump, fails, it is a very common type to source and of course the pump would still work without the battery.  Got thumbs?  I can pump up a tire to satisfaction by ‘feel’ without a gauge of any kind even though I might not be at an optimum pressure.  But the idea that a dead battery or buggy app/phone relationship makes the pump a semi-blind process takes some getting used to.

The Viaggio seems to be on the lower volume/high pressure end of things stroke-wise, so if you were doing fat boy tires all the time, that might take a while.  I found it fine for 40c gravel tires and OK topping up 2.8 Plus MTB tires.  It still beats a mini pump by a long shot and being able to use the flip out legs and base resting on the floor is better than a hand held solution. I took it, wrapped in the roll bag, on a couple road trips where it stored less awkwardly than a fixed base floor pump with gauges. Easier to pack around for sure. 

Now then. Is it a satisfying product?  I think so, although I have to admit that I would need to travel a lot to make it worth the inconvenience of unwrapping the bag, inserting that handle into place, opening the app…where did I put my phone?…inflating then undoing the handle and storing it, etc.  I keep an SKS floor pump, one of the inexpensive, indestructible metal ones, in the back of my Subaru Outback all the time.  Yeah, the gauge is tiny and hard to read but it is close enough for my needs on the average ride where I am topping up a tire or fixing a flat.

Still, the Viaggio is compelling.  Expensive, yes, but likely built to last and lovely to look at.  If you are going to put Italian names on things, they should be bellisima , yes?  It does what it claims to do and the HIRO chuck is very nice, making anything I normally use feel like a kid’s toy.

I read an interesting review of the Silca Viaggio Travel Pump written by the “Angry Asian” on another site.  James is perhaps the best reviewer of cycling products I have ever read and he brought out some well formed thoughts on using the Viaggio as a travel pump if you fly with your bike.  He found it heavy and a bit long.  I would have never thought of that, as I seldom fly these days, and pretty much never with a bike.  I think I would use something like the Lezyne Mini Floor Drive combined with an SKS digital pressure gauge for airplane travel.

But for packing in the car or van or RV, the bag is nice, can hold tools and would keep the Viaggio looking fresh.  In a car, the bit of weight and size is not an issue. 

It’s not often that I find myself flip-flopping back and forth between really liking something and finding it somewhat inconvenient.  Still, I have to admit that the next time I load up the bikes and point the car towards a cycling road trip I will have the Viaggio tucked in the back, nestled into that nice roll bag.  I already have a phone.

Note: Silca sent the Viaggio Travel Pump to RidingGravel.com at no charge and we are not being paid nor bribed for this review. We strive to always give our hoest thoughts and opinions throughout.

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Author: Grannygear

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3 thoughts on “ Silca Viaggio Travel Pump: Quick Review ”

Given one free (a $275 payment if you ask me), of course you’ll take it with you. If you sent it back like other reviewers do, the more interesting question is: would you then buy one with your own money?

@Tom in MN…First, I have no certain way of knowing whether or not ‘other’ reviewers send everything back, but I am pretty sure they do not based on years and years of doing this. Sometimes I do and sometimes I do not and that is almost always discussed right up front when the review sample is being arranged.

If I wanted what the Viaggio offered and I traveled a lot where the unique features made the most sense, and if I had the budget for it, then yes. I would buy it. It does everything it claims to do. The value equation is up to the buyer.

For me a floor pump in the car does the trick as I mentioned.

And even if it is free, like this was, if I did not like it I would not use it. Why would I? Frankly I would be more likely to use it if I had paid for it even if it was a so-so product since I am in for nearly 300 clams. Right?

The original inspiration for this and the Bluetooth Tattico was the misfortune of a friend at Dirty Kanza, borrowing a pump that morning, pumping up to 29psi only to pinch flat because the 29psi on THAT borrowed pump was more like 24psi. Then fixed that flat by feel, pinch flatted again 20 miles later, then fixed THAT flat and over-inflated just to be safe and rode the next 160 miles 5+ psi over desired pressure getting the crap beaten out of them. Some other friends had a similar experience at Cape Epic after spending more than $10k in entry fees and travel expenses, then struggling for 3 days to find the right air pressure with the cheap pump they bought in country.

The way I think about this is that the difference between a ‘stiff’ carbon fork and a ‘comfortable’ carbon fork on a gravel bike is less than 1psi tire pressure equivalent on a 40mm tire. Same for handlebars and seat posts, etc.. so we will obsess for weeks over spec’ing a bike and spend a fortune on components, then show up at an event and go by finger pressure or borrowed pump (with +/-5% gauge at best) and end up on something that is sub-optimal by a magnitude considerably larger than the gains we’ve made with our component selection.

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Explore Vancouver Island's wild side

From ancient forests to secluded beaches, the remote sanctuary off Canada's Pacific Coast has it all

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A boat sails through Clayoquot Sound on the west coast of Vancouver Island near Tofino, British Columbia, Canada.

The only way to reach Vancouver Island is by boat or plane. Either way, arriving at this remote sanctuary off Canada's Pacific Coast is a memorable experience: cedar trees carpet the rocky shores, hazy mountains stretch as far as the eye can see. 

If you're lucky, you might be greeted with the bark of a seal or the whistle of a bald eagle returning to its nest. The island is teeming with wildlife; this is a place where black bears roam the forests and humpback whales can be spotted along the coast. Here are a few ways to experience the untamed beauty of Vancouver Island. 

Catch waves at Tofino

A surfer stands with his surfboard in the water at Chesterman Beach, Tofino.

Chesterman Beach is an excellent spot for storm-watching 

In the manicured streets of Victoria on the southern tip of the island "you could be forgiven for thinking you were in Cheltenham", said Stanley Stewart in Conde Nast Traveler . "But things get rugged remarkably quickly." Around a three hour drive up the coast lies Tofino - a little beach town known as the surfing capital of Canada. Cox Bay Beach hosts most of the surf competitions, while Mackenzie Beach is ideal for families thanks to its sheltered location and calm waters. The winter months can be spent storm-watching: expect dramatic skies, gigantic waves and fearsome winds (take it all in from Pointe Restaurant overlooking Chesterman Beach).

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Hike the West Coast Trail 

A beach covered in driftwood along the coast of Pacific Rim National Park, Vancouver Island.

Adventurous hikers will need five to seven days to complete the perilous trail

Built in 1907 to help rescuers reach shipwreck survivors along the treacherous 'Graveyard of the Pacific', the West Coast Trail is one of Canada's most popular hiking spots. The 47-mile stretch of "ladders, bridges, creek crossings, rock-hopping and beachcombing hugs the Pacific shoreline for most of its course", said Brendan Sainsbury in Lonely Planet . Adventurous hikers will need a permit, camping gear and between five and seven days to complete it, but despite volatile weather and slippery conditions "the rewards are immense". Be sure to plan your route carefully in advance - and bring a sturdy pair of hiking boots.

Take in the forest from the Malahat Skywalk

Malahat Skywalk against the forest canopy on Vancouver Island.

The spiral walkway curls above the forest canopy revealing sweeping views 

For panoramic views of the forest, fjords and mountains beyond, it's worth taking a scenic stroll along the Malahat Skywalk. Located a 35-minute drive from Victoria, the spiral tree-walk opened in 2021. The 32-metre glass and wooden structure looks like a "giant cane basket poking above the forest canopy" and is accessed by a "gently graded walkway that curls up through 10 storeys to a circular lookout", said Sainsbury in The Independent . There's also an 'adventure net' for daring guests to bounce across at the top, and a 20-metre spiral slide for kids.

Go wine tasting in Cowichan Valley 

Vineyards in Cowichan Valley, Vancouver Island.

The mild climate is ideal for grape growing 

Those looking for something a bit more relaxing could consider taking a scenic drive from Victoria around an hour north along the Trans-Canada highway to Cowichan Valley. Known for its warm, dry summers and mild winters, the region is home to a burgeoning collection of wineries and vineyards. In Cobble Hill, craft cider maker Merridale offers tours and tastings, and has plush yurts on site for overnight stays. "The best place to eat is hidden in the woods near Lake Cowichan, where passionate locavore and chef Brock Windsor runs the Stone Soup Inn," shared Carolyn B. Heller in Forbes . The menu is brimming with foraged ingredients and changes with the seasons.

Where to stay

Wickaninnish Inn on Chesterman Beach.

The Wickaninnish Inn overlooks Chesterman Beach on the island's rugged west coast

Perched on the far edge of Vancouver Island in Tofino, the Wickaninnish Inn looks out over Chesterman Beach. The stunning landscape is "reflected indoors at every turn", said Nikki Bayley in The Telegraph , from the floor-to-ceiling windows to the custom furnishings crafted from driftwood. All of the rooms have balconies with ocean views, cosy fireplaces and bathrooms with deep soaking tubs. 

Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge comprises 25 luxurious tented accommodations on the banks of Clayoquot Sound. It might be hard to reach but the journey is "well worth the effort", said Sarah Marshall in The Times . Set in a former mining outpost, each of the lodge's eco-friendly tents feature spacious outdoor decks and ensuite bathrooms.

How to get there

BC Ferries operates vessels between the mainland and Vancouver Island. Leave Vancouver from Horseshoe Bay or Tsawwassen to arrive in Victoria or Nanaimo (you can also take a one-day scenic cruise through the Inside Passage between Prince Rupert and Port Hardy). The other option is to fly: daily flights from Calgary and Edmonton take visitors to Victoria, Comox and Nanaimo. 

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Smoking aftermath of Israeli airstrike in Rafah, Gaza Strip

Speed Read The strike on Sunday killed 45 displaced Palestinians and wounded hundreds

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The Week Recommends The 'impressively expansive' exhibition showcases some 200 paintings, sculptures and prints

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Your 2024 Credit Card Checklist for Summer Travel

Craig Joseph

Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

Checklists are a key step in travel preparation for many people. Passport — check. Phone charger — check. But have you checked to make sure you’re fully utilizing the travel perks offered by your credit card?

Whether you’re a seasoned jetsetter or a novice traveler seeing the world for the first time, benefits from the right credit card can make a trip more convenient and more comfortable. That’s good news for the 50% of Americans who plan to travel more in 2024 than 2023, according to a survey by IPX1031, a Fidelity National Financial Company.

Here’s a credit card checklist to review before you hit the road this summer.

viaggio travel reviews

1. Bring a card

First things first — be sure to bring a credit card! Many airlines, and even entire airports, are now cash-free. That means you’ll need a card to pay for that pre-departure drink or in-flight snack. You might even earn bonus rewards.

For example, if restaurants are a bonus category for your card, sit-down establishments within the airport will usually still earn that higher rewards rate. If your card earns a bonus on travel purchases, you'll usually earn that bonus for in-flight purchases.

2. Register for TSA PreCheck, Global Entry or Clear

Airports are more crowded than ever, with air passenger growth up 6% and foreign travel up 24% year over year, according to a study conducted by the U.S. Travel Association and Tourism Economics.

To ease the burden of long lines, check if your card offers a credit that covers the cost of TSA PreCheck , Global Entry or Clear . These programs allow you to speed through the line at security or customs, but since they all require a background check and an in-person interview, you'll need to register well before your trip. Even if you haven’t been verified for this trip, register today to prepare for your next trip.

3. Register for lounge access

Airport lounges offer a reprieve from the hustle and bustle of the airport terminal, with most offering free food and drinks. If your card offers access to Priority Pass lounges, you’ll need to register for that benefit before you hit the road.

Don’t forget your physical membership card, or even easier, download the Priority Pass app and use your phone to access the lounge.

4. Notify your issuer of your travel plans

Few things can create issues like having your card unexpectedly stop working when you’re away from home, especially internationally. With rates of credit card fraud increasing, it’s possible your card could stop working if you’re spending outside of your normal patterns or locations. To preempt this, notify your issuer before you travel. Often you can do this online or through the app, but just in case, be sure to travel with at least two cards .

5. Avoid paying foreign transaction fees

If you’re traveling abroad, make sure you have a card that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees . If your card does levy those fees, try to get a different card before you leave the country.

6. Pay with your most rewarding card

Be sure to identify opportunities to leverage your trip and earn outsized rewards. For example, if you know you’ll be staying at a Hilton brand hotel, you might consider applying for one of the Hilton credit cards offered by American Express and earn up to 14 Hilton points per dollar you spend at the hotel. Those points can stack up fast and easily defray costs for your future travel.

But you'll need to bring the physical card with you. Many hotels aren't able to accept digital wallet payments, so if you can't swipe your card, you'll miss out on those heightened rewards.

7. Check your card’s money-saving offers

Many issuers have programs, such as AmEx Offers, Chase Offers and BankAmeriDeals from Bank of America, that let you add rotating promotional offers to your card and earn additional points or cash back for making purchases at specific merchants. Be sure to review these offers for any merchants where you might spend during your travels. Just be aware of the fine print — often these offers exclude, or only include, international merchants.

On a similar note...

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  • Hotel Reviews

The Horse Capital of the World Just Got Its Second Luxury Hotel — Here’s What It’s Like to Stay

Intrepid travelers heading to Florida's horse country now have a new, larger option at Ocala's World Equestrian Center.

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Food and Drink

Activities and amenities.

  • Family-friendly Offerings

Accessibility and Sustainability

How to get the most value out of your stay.

DAVE MILLER/Courtesy of Maven Photo & Film

Central Florida has a long history of being overlooked by travelers bound for the Gulf Coast to the west, the Panhandle , and the state's Atlantic-facing beaches (read: any place with beautiful Florida beaches lapped by salt water). But intrepid travelers looking to divert from the state’s storied coasts know that to see some of Florida’s most gorgeous, rolling landscapes and ethereally beautiful freshwater springs (rivaling Mexico’s cenotes), detouring inland in the Sunshine State is where it’s at.

And that’s where The Riding Academy Hotel , sister property to The Equestrian Hotel , enters the picture as an idyllic destination for a different Sunshine State vacation.

Situated in the heart of the state’s horse country in Ocala (about 90 miles northwest of Orlando), the property had its soft opening in mid-March of 2024 and officially opened April 1, just in time for the World Equestrian Center — the largest equestrian complex in the U.S., sprawling across 400 acres, and the hotels' home — to host the U.S. qualifier for the Longines League of Nations, a major equestrian showjumping event.

With 390 rooms compared to The Equestrian Hotel’s 248 rooms, The Riding Academy is larger than its sibling and caters squarely to the dog-friendly and family-friendly crowd. (It's also just a 10-minute stroll away through the pedestrian-friendly grounds.)

DAVE MILLER/Courtesy of Maven Photo & Film

All rooms are pet-friendly, and 250 are outfitted with two queen beds and a sofa, making it all the easier to welcome families beyond two or three people.

While The Equestrian Hotel nods to formal, European-inspired flair, The Riding Academy, which has a slightly lower price point, was designed to feel more casual, says Rick Owens, the senior designer at Roberts Design Group , which is behind the hotel’s very becoming looks.

“We took traditional equestrian motifs but added more intense hues similar to jockey silks — bright greens, purples, navy blues, and bright butternut colors reflective of saddle leathers,” Owens told Travel + Leisure . “The use of those brighter, strong plaids gives a pop to the darker leather sofas and gives a fresher, more current feel.”

During an antiquing trip to a furniture market in High Point, North Carolina, Owens said his team saw an antique carved wooden horse sign in the back of a shop with “Riding Academy” on it.

“We knew it was a sign about the hotel's name since we were initially struggling to think of something,” he said. “What do you name another property following The Equestrian Hotel? This incredible antique just really solidified that.”

There are clear links between the two properties, of course — perhaps most apparent in the many nods to dogs, the most beloved pets of the hotels’ owner. But while oil paintings of canine portraits dominate The Equestrian Hotel, The Riding Academy’s abundant artwork skews more casual and whimsical, with dogs dressed up as jockeys, riders, and professors in the paintings, prints, and sculptures displayed in the public spaces and guest rooms.

“It has this sort of collegiate yearbook vibe to it that plays into the academy aspect really well,” Owens added.

Ground has already been broken on the street-facing side of The Riding Academy for an 80,000-square-foot outdoor shopping venue to come that will feature roughly 30 new shops, two rooftops, an event space, and four new restaurants, which will start opening in mid-2025.

For now, come to enjoy The Riding Academy’s generous and luxurious rooms, gorgeous pool, and all the amenities, restaurants, and spa area on offer at The Equestrian Hotel, too — just a scenic stroll (or golf cart tour) away through the oak-lined grounds of The World Equestrian Center. 

Read on for T+L's full review of Ocala's newest luxury hotel.

The Riding Academy Hotel

  •  Guests can rent golf carts during their stay, perfect for zipping around with the kids and dogs. 
  • The huge pool has a zero-entry area on the far end for families to play like on a beach, and there’s a dedicated kids' water play area nearby. 
  • The majority of the rooms are one-bedroom suites with two queen beds and an additional sofa sleeper in a separate living space, great for privacy. 
  • The onsite marketplace off the lobby sells Starbucks coffee, gourmet salads, craft beers, and seltzers, available by the can to enjoy poolside or in your room. 
  • The big outdoor fireplace on the sundeck patio is a beautiful place to gather come evening.

All 390 rooms have wood-like ceramic tile flooring, marble bathrooms with rainwater showers, oversized closets designed to accommodate all the apparel horse people often need to travel with, and luxury Bellino Italian linens on the beds. We’re talking serious room to spread out in these accommodations, too, with the smallest among them (a king studio) sprawling across 439 square feet. A two-bedroom suite is more than 1,100 square feet.

Also, a perk for the canine-loving equestrian set: Unlike its older sibling, all rooms at the Riding Academy Hotel are dog-friendly for a one-time fee of $100 per dog up to 75 pounds.

Of the rooms, 250 are one-bedroom suites with two queen beds and a separate pull-out sofa in another room that can be closed off with a door, accommodating six people — hello, large families! Playful artwork incorporates animals: dogs dressed as jockeys, chinchillas parading atop zebras, you name it. There are subtle equestrian touches, too, such as Ralph Lauren stirrup sconces, custom trophy lamps, and custom leatherwork on throw pillows reminiscent of a bridle and reins. In-room coffee makers and Sub-Zero mini-fridges round out the residential touches.

For now, there’s only one onsite food option at The Riding Academy, a gourmet market, which is a good option for a light breakfast or lunch to go. Hit The Tack Room, right off the lobby, for Starbucks coffee drinks, grab-and-go charcuterie platters, gourmet salads, and a soft serve machine the kids will beg to hit every time you walk in. You can order breakfast items at the counter, including smoked salmon, bagels, avocado toast, cinnamon rolls, croissants, quiche, and English muffin sandwiches. From 11 a.m. onward, nachos, chorizo flatbreads, baked chicken wings, Bavarian pretzels, and smoked brisket grilled cheese sandwiches are also available.

Guests at The Riding Academy can walk or request a complimentary shuttle to reach The Equestrian Hotel and the dining options scattered around The World Equestrian Center that include Mexican and Italian counter-service restaurants, Filo’s Mexican Cantina and Viola & Dot’s; an adorable candy and ice cream shop called Miss Tillly’s Lollipops; Ralph’s Burger & Sandwich Shop; and more upscale options like the pub-style Yellow Pony and steakhouse and seafood restaurant, Stirrups. Don’t miss bringing the family to Emma's Patisserie for a sweet treat in the form of freshly baked macarons and other gorgeous European-inspired pastries and sandwiches. 

Plenty of lounge chairs surround The Riding Academy’s freeform swimming pool, which is at the heart of the hotel in an oversized courtyard complete with a separate water splash area for kids and an outdoor fireplace that’s a lovely place to gather in the evenings. Two fitness centers on-site at The Riding Academy have all the modern equipment and free weights you need.

Guests also have access to the pool at The Equestrian Hotel, surrounded by beautiful oak trees and home to an onsite cafe and bar called Horse to Water, where the Palomino punches, Mai Tais, and frozen cocktails flow.

Renting a golf cart from the hotel’s fleet is a fun way to set out exploring the entire property, shaded with old-growth live oak trees, and where there’s usually some horse event or another happening at one of the many arenas. Of the gorgeous nearby freshwater springs to explore within a half-hour drive of the hotel, bookmark Rainbow Springs State Park, which is excellent for swimming, and Silver Springs State Park, perfect for a boat cruise down the river. Both have waters teeming with fish and turtles that seem to glow turquoise from within.

While there’s no spa onsite at The Riding Academy, guests can book hot stone massages, collagen-boosting facials, decadent wraps, pedicures, hair styling, and more at The Equestrian Hotel’s 7,000-square-foot Calluna Spa , decorated in shades of purple as an ode to lavender. The spa’s five treatment rooms include one designed for couples, and there’s a full-service hair salon onsite. 

Family-friendly Offerings 

The World Equestrian Center’s walkability and frequent schedule of events — they go all out for the holidays, including Thanksgiving, Fourth of July, Christmas, Easter, and more — make staying at The Riding Academy family-friendly by nature.  Kids love the soft-serve ice cream machines and a vast array of ice cream sandwiches and popsicles for sale in the Tack Room, which they can grab and bring outside to enjoy at The Riding Academy’s colossal pool. And the kids' splash pad area, decorated with colorful oversized critters, is its only little watery wonderland to explore together, too. 

The property features ADA-accessible hotel rooms with roll-in showers and accommodations for hearing- and visually-impaired guests. More than 700 live oak trees have been planted since construction began on the 400-acre property, and if any have to come down, two more are replanted to replace them. To conserve water, the World Equestrian Center does not irrigate turf areas beyond the Saint Augustine turf grass. All flowers on the property are from the owner's farm, which grows more than 650,000 annual flowers yearly — an average of 90,000 annuals are planted onsite at the WEC each year.

Onsite at The World Equestrian Center, at the east end of the property that’s being newly developed, The Riding Academy is just a 10-minute stroll or three-minute golf cart ride across the complex from The Equestrian Hotel. Ocala can be reached in about 90 minutes (roughly 90 miles) from Orlando International Airport to the southeast. You’re best off renting a car if you don’t arrive here in your own vehicle to make the most of exploring the surrounding region’s freshwater springs and the pretty downtown district of Ocala, about 10 miles (20 minutes) away, brimming with restaurants, breweries, and shops of its own.

Rooms at The Riding Academy hover at a lower price point than those at The Equestrian Hotel. But you’ll want to be sure to plan your stay around any major horse show series’ if you’re not coming for those events (check the events calendar ). In general, off-peak months when room rates fall are May, early June, late August, and September.

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LUMIX S9 Review: A Fantastic Travel Camera with Limitations

In this in-depth review of the Lumix S9, we explore the newest addition to Lumix’s camera lineup from the vibrant streets of Osaka, Japan.

The Lumix S9 is a 24-megapixel full frame mirrorless camera, boasting a lightweight body at just 486 grams, making it perfect for on-the-go photography and videography. Equipped with the innovative phase detection autofocus and dual gain sensor, it promises excellent performance for both enthusiasts and professionals.

Julia Trotti’s review kicks off with a look at the camera’s design and build quality. The S9 is celebrated for its sleek aesthetics, available in multiple colors, including an eye-catching green. Despite its compact size, it features a micro HDMI port, a USB-C port, and a 3.5 mm microphone port. It has a beautifully designed flat-style body, free angle LCD, and advanced hybrid autofocus. The S9 also includes a new dedicated LUT button, making this a truly shoot-and-share camera. The lack of a viewfinder, however, might be a drawback for some users.

Throughout the video, Trotti tests various lenses, including the new 26mm pancake lens and the 35mm f/1.8. The S9's autofocus capabilities are demonstrated with the 24mm f/1.8 lens, showing impressive responsiveness and reliability. The review also covers the camera’s high-resolution mode, which can capture 96MP files, a feature not commonly found in cameras at this price point.

For video enthusiasts, the Lumix S9 supports up to 6K video recording, with various stabilization modes tested for vlogging purposes. The review provides audio comparisons using different microphones, highlighting the camera’s sound quality capabilities.

While the S9 is perfect for beginners and as a secondary camera for professionals, it has a few limitations, such as the single SD card slot and the manual focus 26mm lens. Nonetheless, its compact size and robust feature set make it an excellent choice for travel and everyday use.

Overall, the Lumix S9 impresses with its blend of portability, performance, and innovative features, making it a valuable addition to the Lumix family. Whether you’re stepping up from a smartphone or looking for a versatile travel camera, the S9 has much to offer.

Kim Simpson's picture

Kim Simpson is a photographer based in the West of Scotland. Her photographic practice is an exploration of the human experience, with a particular emphasis on themes of identity and belonging.

Hasselblad's Groundbreaking 907X and CFV 100C: Redefining Medium Format Photography and Looking to the Past

Good to have stabilization on body. But bad travel camera without EVF (for outdoor photos)...

Edison Wrzosek's picture

Another biased, uninformed review of this POS camera... Like Gerald Undone said in his latest video, these "reviews" are basically worthless nowadays, and not just for cameras.

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Important notice

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Travelling with a pet

The United States (US) Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced changes to the import requirements for dogs entering the United States . These changes will come into effect on August 1, 2024 and will impact dogs travelling from Canada to the United States. The CFIA is currently in the process of reviewing these requirements. Further information and guidance will be provided as soon as possible.

New import conditions for personal pet dogs and assistance dogs from countries at high-risk for dog rabies starting September 28, 2023

Personal pet dogs and assistance dogs from countries at high-risk for dog rabies will require an import permit issued by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency before travelling to Canada.

If you're planning on bringing your dog into Canada from September 28, 2023 onwards, prepare in advance and learn more about the import process .

Pets must meet specific requirements when travelling to Canada or another country. It is your responsibility to review all the requirements for your situation.

Some requirements must be completed at specific times and if not completed correctly or on time your pet may not be eligible to travel and be refused entry.

As soon as you know your travel details, contact your local veterinarian to assist with the pet travel process. Requirements could include obtaining a health certificate, updating vaccinations, testing, or administering medications.

Only dogs, cats and ferrets qualify as pets by Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA). Check requirements for other animals if you're travelling with a non-traditional pet.

Travelling to Canada from another country (import requirements)

Requirements for bringing an animal into Canada apply to the following situation:

  • animals entering Canada permanently
  • animals in transit through Canada on their way to a final destination
  • animals entering Canada for a temporary visit
  • Canadian animals returning to Canada

Travelling from Canada to another country (export requirements)

The country you're travelling to may have requirements your pet must meet before they can enter the country. Export requirements are determined by each country and can change frequently. Every time you plan to travel with your pet, it is your responsibility to check the requirements and allow enough time to get your pet ready to travel.

  • Pets (dogs, cats and ferrets)
  • All other animals

Related links

  • Travelling to the United States with a pet
  • Look up import requirements (AIRS)

COMMENTS

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