A: There are 2 easy ways to make your pilgrimage booking:
Please note that all booking forms must be accompanied by a non-refundable deposit of AUD $800 per person and a photocopy of your current passport. An additional non-refundable deposit of AUD $400 per person is required for Oberammergau Pilgrimage Packages. If at the time of booking you do not have a valid passport or are in the process of renewing it, please ensure to forward a copy to us as soon as it is received.
A: Harvest offers the choice of both ‘Air and Tour’ and ‘Tour Only’ pilgrimage options. If you select the ‘Air and Tour’ option, upon receipt of your booking form, a Harvest Pilgrimage Consultant will be in contact with you and arrange your flight bookings for your pilgrimage.
A: Your Tour Manager will make contact with you at the hotel on the first day of the pilgrimage. Please refer to your tour documents for details. See below for details of airport transfers.
A: A scheduled Group Transfer from the airport to the group hotel and return is included only for pilgrims who purchase Air & Tour packages through Harvest. Tour Only pilgrims can purchase airport transfers from Harvest for a nominal fee. Conditions apply. Your Harvest Pilgrimage Consultant can provide you with full details.
A: All pilgrimages are fully escorted by a Priest Chaplain and often with a Pilgrimage Director from Australia. In the case of smaller group sizes, your local tour escort may assume the role of Pilgrimage Director from your first point of arrival.
A: While a ‘double’ room normally constitutes a double or queen bed in the room, a ‘twin’ provides two single beds in the one room. Passengers travelling by themselves who elect a ‘twin-share’ room basis can assign Harvest the task of pairing two pilgrims of the same gender together throughout the pilgrimage. This will always be done with age compatibility in mind although this will always remain at Harvest’s discretion and can never be guaranteed. Please refer to Section 11 of Harvest’s Terms and Conditions for more details.
A: Many programmes have been scheduled to allow various combinations of pilgrimages. Please refer to the Classic Combinations page in the Harvest Brochure or on the Harvest website. Your Harvest Pilgrimage Consultant can assist you with planning and advise you of the additional travel details.
A: While the physical demands of each pilgrimage may vary, each participant must be physically mobile, in good health and capable of caring for themselves on tour. Some pilgrimage activities may include standing for extended periods or significant walking – possibly over uneven terrain. Although some exceptions may apply, pilgrims over the age of 70 or with Medical or physical disabilities may be assessed, (in accordance with standard Travel Insurance Procedures) and if deemed necessary, must travel with the assistance of a dedicated care person. Please refer to Sections 16 and 17 of Harvest’s Terms and Conditions or call Harvest for any concerns or questions you may have in this regard.
A: Yes! Please make sure to advise us of your specific needs at the time of booking and Harvest will work with its local operators to ensure that your needs are met.
A: The pilgrimage cost covers all items listed in the General Inclusions section. Additional expenses may include lunches, beverages at meal times, telephone calls, shopping, laundry and items of a personal nature. Airport taxes and airline fees and levies are included but can be subject to ongoing fluctuations.
A: Your Harvest Consultant will advise you of any visas requirements for your travel itinerary and can assist you in the process of obtaining these. Application forms along with visa fee information will be provided in your letter of confirmation. Passengers not travelling on an Australian passport should take particular note of their specific visa requirements and restrictions. Non-Australian passport holders will need to apply for their visa in person through the respective Consulate or Embassy.
A: Most groups depart with the average size of 20-25 people, although this can range from very small groups of around 12 to larger capacities of up to 45.
A: Tour Escorts normally join a pilgrimage at the first point of arrival and provide commentary information and assistance throughout the days on tour. Furthermore, local guides are employed at chosen shrines and sites for their focused expertise and more detailed explanations.
A: While our programmes are geared primarily to the needs of the Catholic faithful, all are welcome to participate and to encounter the unique community and spiritual experience found on pilgrimage. There is no obligation to attend daily Mass.
A: Harvest has been in operation for over thirty years. We are a fully accredited travel agency. All monies paid to Harvest are protected under current Travel Agency Insurances.
A: Tour documentation will be dispatched approximately 2 weeks prior to departure. Passengers can make an appointment to collect it from the Harvest Sydney office, while pilgrims in regional locations will receive their documents by courier service.
