Travel Information & FAQs
Questions about your upcoming trip? See if we’ve answered your query in our FAQ below. If not, please don’t hesitate to contact our after-sales team on 020 7749 7203.
Flight FAQs
Can I pre-book my seats?
The process of pre-allocating seats differs between airlines. However, all carriers have a limited number available prior to departure. You may be able to pre-book your seats at an additional charge; this would need to be done directly with the airline. In some cases, the full balance of the flight must be paid before the airline will allow seats to be pre-booked in advance. Seats can usually be pre-booked free of charge within 24 to 48 hours before departure.
The airlines do block a sector of the aircraft for our passengers and in the normal way will try to ensure that families are seated together. If you are travelling in the high season please check with your consultant to ascertain if you are on one of our group allocations.
Can I upgrade my seats?
Kenwood Travel can arrange seat upgrades on all flights. Please contact your consultant and they will be happy to check availability and provide you with a quotation.
When will I need to check in?
We advise passengers to check in online 24 hours prior to departure. However this is not mandatory. Passengers who chose to check in online will be advised to arrive at the airport 2 hours before departure; those who do not are advised to arrive at the airport 3 hours prior to departure.
Passengers flying with Virgin Atlantic have the opportunity to complete a Twilight Check-In for certain routes. This allows you to check in and drop luggage at the airport the evening before your flight.
Can I change the name of a passenger or dates of my booking?
Unfortunately, it is not possible to change a name with an airline once the reservation has been made. If one of your party were unable to travel the seat would need to be cancelled with a loss of deposit or balance. We would then make a new booking if you have an alternative passenger.
Changing the dates of a booking once it has been made may be possible however is subject to availability and would incur additional charges. If you wish to change your holiday dates please contact your sales consultant.
Are meals included on my flight?
All of our prices include in-flight meals on international scheduled carriers. However, it is now normal practice not to include meals on low cost UK domestic and European flights, and flights within the United States. Your consultant will be able to advise you in this respect. If you have any special meal requests, such as for a child, vegetarian, vegan, pork or dairy free, please advise us and we will be happy to arrange this for you.
Hotel FAQs
At what time can I check-in and check-out of my hotel?
Typically, hotel rooms will be available from 1400hrs to 1500hrs on the day of arrival; check out would be between 1000hrs and midday. Times will vary from hotel to hotel and you should check with your consultant to establish the exact policy. If the room is available earlier the hotel may allow you to check in slightly earlier but this would be at their discretion.
If you arrive at the hotel in the early hours of the morning, you can expect a wait for your room to become available. This can be avoided by booking an extra night and our team can inform you of the costs applicable to do this.
How old do I need to be to check in to a hotel?
For most hotels around the world, the minimum age for a lead passenger to check in is 18. However, in the USA the minimum age for a lead passenger to check in to a hotel is 21. This is especially relevant in Las Vegas where this rule is strictly enforced.
Would a hotel ask me for my credit card details, when I check in, to cover any extras?
As per international practice, most hotels secure a deposit from guests. How the hotels do this will depend on the method of payment you are carrying. If a debit card is used, the funds may appear as a transaction and will be refunded back to your card once you have checked out. For credit cards, a pre-authorisation is taken and released upon check out. Any incidentals, such as drinks, extra meals, room service etc will be taken from this pre authorisation and the remaining automatically released.
Will my children have their own bed in the room?
When booking a standard double/king room, the typical expectation is that children will share existing bedding. If you wish to avoid this, please speak with your consultant who can check availability for family rooms/suites.
What is included in my meal plan at the hotel?
Hotel meal plan inclusions vary hotel to hotel but guests on Half board can expect two meals a day, usually this is breakfast and dinner, this can be served in the buffet only, but may inlcude a set menu or dining credits for use in A La Carte restaurants. The same can be expected for Full Board albeit three daily meals.
All Inclusive guess can expect three daily meals and drinks to be included. However, this can still be limited to buffet only.
For further information on your chosen hotels dining inclusions, please speak with your consultant.
Visa information
Visa Requirements
For regular updates on visa requirements, please see the Foreign Commonwealth office website here.
Please be advised that it is your responsibility to identify all necessary passport and visa-related requirements for your trip. Please allow sufficient time to obtain any documents required. Please note many countries require your passport to be valid for six months beyond the period of your stay. Requirements are subject to change, and it is your responsibility to ensure that you comply with applicable passport and visa requirements, ensuring to take all necessary documents with you to gain access to the country(s) or region(s) to which you make travel arrangements. If you fail to do so, you will be solely responsible for any cost, loss, or damage which you or the Company incurs as a result.
Clients not holding an EU Passport must check applicable requirements with their Embassy, Consulate or the British Foreign Office for travel advice. Please remember to ensure your name on your flight ticket exactly matches that on your passport, and ensure your passport has not been damaged or tampered with. Those not in possession of a valid passport or visa may be refused travel.
How long is an ESTA valid for?
An ESTA visa is valid for two years from the purchase date; however it needs to be updated each time you travel to the USA.
Do I need an ESTA if in transit through the USA?
Yes, even if you only have a layover and don’t leave the airport, you are required to have a valid ESTA. People travelling through the USA are still considered visitors of the United States. Simply enter 'In transit', as your final destination under the heading 'Address While In The United States' on the ESTA application.
Are there any special requirements for children travelling to South Africa?
From October 1 2014, parents travelling to South Africa with a child – defined as those under 18 years – will need to produce an unabridged birth certificate that shows the names of both parents, with a sworn translation if not in English.
How to book?
How do I make payment for my holiday?
For new bookings, our team will take card payment over the phone at the time of booking, which confirms your commitment for the holiday.
For exsiting bookings, the balance on your booking is due 10 weeks prior to departure unless otherwise notified of an earlier payment date due to supplier commitment. Payment can be made online via the 'Manage my booking' section of our website. If you have issues making a payment, please call our team on 02077497203. All major debit and credit cards are accepted. Please note corporte cards may be charged a levy.
Bank Transfer - Please call our aftersales team on 02077497203 who can provide details required for BACS payment.
Kenwood Travel requires payment to be made in full if travelling within 10 weeks.
The balance due date will appear on every confirmation you receive. Our team will make attempt to contact to remind you of our balance, and if not paid by the due date agreed, we will cancel your booking and no refund of monies paid will be given.
How to book on the phone?
- Call us on 020 7749 9220 and follow the directory to your desired department.
- Discuss your preferred dates and prices and get first-hand advice from your friendly travel adviser.
- To proceed with a booking over the phone, please have your credit/debit card details handy to proceed. The deposit paid is non refundable, unless for any reason we are unable to provide the holiday booked.
Whether you choose to call or go online, rest assured that you are dealing with a long-established tour operator holding both ATOL and ABTOT licences, so your money is totally secure.
How to book online?
- Browse our website by destination and select your dream holiday, or use our Holiday Search facility on the top of your page.
- Follow the ‘search’ links and once happy click book onlnie now.
- Simply enter your details in the fields provided.
- Wait for our call-back to verify full details of your holiday.
- Check your in-box for booking confirmation via email.
Whether you choose to call or go online, rest assured that you are dealing with a long-established tour operator holding both ATOL and ABTOT licences, so your money is totally secure.
Travel documents
Health Requirements & Travel Documents
We would like to remind you that it is your responsibility to ensure that you are in possession of all necessary travel and health documents before departure.
We regret we cannot accept liability if you are refused entry onto any transport or into any country due to the failure on your part to carry correct documentation, including passports and visas. If failure to produce any necessary travel or other documents results in fines, surcharges or other financial penalty being imposed upon us, you will be responsible for reimbursing us accordingly.
In the event we are asked to reissue tickets that have been lost, destroyed or stolen and we agree to do so, any charges incurred as a result of this will be payable by you.
Please visit this NHS direct website for helpful information and advice regarding any inoculations and tablets you may require in preparation for your travels.
Do I need a passport with an integrated chip?
Clients travelling to the United States after 01 APRIL 2016 will need to hold a passport with an integrated chip. For security reasons this holds all of your personal information, as stated on the passport, but in digital format. If your passport does not have this feature then you will need to renew the passport before your departure date. The Passport Office will add up to 9 months of any unexpired time and you can recognise the chip by a gold symbol, resembling a camera, on the bottom of the front cover of the passport.
Wedding FAQs
Will my wedding abroad be legal in the UK?
Yes, it will be legal under British Law, and you do not have to register it when you get back to the UK. Your wedding ceremony will be non-denominational. You must be 18 years or older to book a wedding package with Kenwood Travel, and unless otherwise stated we will offer you a civil wedding.
Can I get married abroad if I have been divorced?
Yes, all you need is your Decree Absolute, for which you must have the original document and take this with you when you travel.
What about my wedding dress? What’s the best way to transport it?
Most bridal shops will carefully pack your dress in a specially designed travel box or cabin carry-on suitcase which fits in the overhead locker on the plane. On arrival at the hotel we recommend you hang up your dress as soon as possible to help any creases drop. Your in-resort wedding coordinator should also be able to provide a steamer.
Can I get married on the beach?
Yes, most of the hotels in our destination wedding portfolio offer various venue options which include beautiful ocean-view gazebos, tropical gardens and, of course, soft sandy beaches. The choice is yours.
Will my wedding date and time be booked before I arrive?
Yes, your wedding date will be booked and all the necessary paperwork prepared before jetting off for your destination wedding.
Can my wedding guests be added to my booking?
Yes, we’ll be happy to coordinate all persons onto the same booking, and we can also suggest nearby hotels should your guests wish to stay at a different accommodation.
It is just going to be the two of us; will we need witnesses?
Yes, witnesses will be required, but your in-resort wedding coordinator will arrange this for you.
Can I get my hair and make-up done in the hotel?
Yes, most of the hotels we work with either have a spa or can provide an in-room hairdresser/beautician. Your in-resort wedding coordinator will arrange all this for you.
What are the legal requirements for getting married abroad?
We offer general guidance for the specific Island or country. With regards personal circumstances ultimately it will be your responsibility to check you have all the correct original legal documentation and this must travel with you in order for the wedding to take place.
Transfer FAQs
What time will my transfer collect me from the hotel?
Your flight information is given to the supplier at the time of booking and the transfer provider will schedule your times. For arrival transfers, please check your final documents for the arrival instructions as these do vary by supplier.
Your depature transfer is organsised approximately 48 hours prior to your departure date and the collection time will be provided to you. If you have not recieved your time withing 24 hours of depature, please refer to the phone number on your transfer voucher, the transfer staff will be happy to assist.
Cruise FAQs
Is there a dress code on board the ship?
Only in certain restaurants you will be required to dress smart/casual. However in the buffet restaurants it is more of a casual theme.
Can I stay onboard when the cruise docks?
Yes, you are welcome stay on board if you do not wish to disembark at certain locations.
Can I add on a pre/post stay?
Yes, in fact we recommend you to have a pre stay to avoid problems cause any potential delays to your journey.
Do you offer accessible cabins?
The majority of cruise lines do have accessible cabins however there is limited availability, so it is better to book early to secure the cabin you need.
Dubai FAQs
Planning your holiday to Dubai
Is Dubai safe? Yes, because of its extremely low crime rates, Dubai is considered a safe city for tourists. For the latest information on travel to Dubai please refer to the FCDO's latest advice which can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/united-arab-emirates. We are closely monitoring the situation in Dubai and our Middle East travel update can be found here: https://www.kenwoodtravel.co.uk/middle-east-travel-update.
What is the currency in Dubai? In Dubai, the currency is Arab Emirates Dirham (AED).
What language is spoken in Dubai? Arabic is the official language of Dubai however, English is the most widely used language.
Are Dubai plugs the same as the UK? Yes, standard 3-pin UK plugs (Type G) are the same as those used in Dubai so you do not need a travel adapter for most hotels and buildings in Dubai.
When is the best time to visit Dubai? Dubai promises year-round sunshine thanks to its desert climate. From July to August, you can expect highs of 30°C to 40°C, perfect for evening adventures and poolside days. While November to March offers a more gentle 20 – 30°C, making it ideal for outdoor exploring. So whether it’s a summer escape or a search for winter sun, Dubai is always ready.
What’s the weather like in Dubai? In Dubai you can expect varied temperatures between 20°C to 40°C depending on the time of year you visit, so overall, it is the perfect year-round holiday destination.
How long do you need in Dubai? Most travellers find that 5 nights in Dubai is the ideal amount of time to experience the city’s main attractions without feeling rushed. You will have time to visit iconic landmarks such as the Burj Khalifa, explore Dubai Mall, enjoy a desert safari, relax on the beaches, and wander through Old Dubai. However, if you want a slower, more relaxed stay, 7 – 10 nights is recommended.
Should I go All Inclusive in Dubai? Yes, All Inclusive holidays to Dubai offer great value, especially for families and couples. They allow you to take the hassle out of your holiday, with All Inclusive packages including accommodation, dining, drinks, and select activities at certain hotels. Allow yourself to soak up every moment without worrying about daily expenses.
Is Dubai a good place for a family holiday? Yes, Dubai is designed with families in mind - whether that's families travelling with young children or teens. The city offers world-class theme parks, pristine beaches, and plenty of indoor attractions, making it an ideal destination for all ages.
Can couples go to Dubai? Yes. With its luxury resorts, world-class spas, private beaches, and endless experiences, Dubai is an excellent choice for couples and honeymooners.
Travelling to Dubai
Do I need a visa for Dubai? For UK travellers, you will receive a tourist visa for free when you arrive in the UAE which will last for up to 90 days.
How long is the flight from the UK to Dubai? The flight from the UK to Dubai is 7 hours.
What is the time difference in Dubai? During British Summer Time, Dubai is 4 hours ahead of the UK and 3 hours ahead in the winter.
Which UK airports fly direct to Dubai? Direct flights to Dubai (DXB) are available from major UK airports, including London Heathrow, London Gatwick, London Stansted, Manchester, Birmingham, Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Newcastle.
Which airlines fly direct to Dubai? Emirates, British Airways and Virgin Atlantic all offer direct flights from the UK to Dubai (DXB).
While you're in Dubai
Are taxis expensive in Dubai? No, taxis in Dubai are reasonably priced and easy to find, making it the easiest way of getting around the city.
Can I drink alcohol in Dubai? Yes, alcohol is served in licensed venues such as hotels, restaurants, and clubs in Dubai if you are 21 or over. Always drink responsibly and respect the local customs and laws.
What can I do in Dubai? Dubai offers a wide range of activities with favourites including a visit to the Burj Khalifa, desert safaris, a day spent at the world's largest shopping mall, relaxing on pristine beaches, or chasing thrills at world-class theme parks.
Can I use my credit card in Dubai? Yes, credit and debit cards are widely accepted across Dubai, including in hotels, shopping malls, restaurants, and taxis, although carrying a small amount of cash is useful.
Does Dubai have nightlife? Yes, Dubai has a vibrant nightlife scene, primarily centred around hotels and resorts. Travellers can enjoy rooftop bars, beach clubs, lounges, fine-dining restaurants, and evening desert experiences, all within a safe and well-regulated environment.
Maldives FAQs
Planning your holiday to the Maldives
Where is the Maldives? The Maldives is a tropical island paradise in the Indian Ocean, southwest of Sri Lanka. Its islands are scattered across turquoise waters near the equator, forming over 1,000 coral islands grouped into 26 atolls
What is the capital of Maldives? The capital of the Maldives is Malé.
How many islands are in the Maldives? The Maldives is made up of around 1,200 islands, spread across 26 natural atolls.
What language do they speak in the Maldives? The official language in the Maldives is Dhivehi, however English is widely spoken, especially in resorts and hotels.
Do they speak English in the Maldives? Yes, English is widely spoken, particularly in resorts.
What currency is used in the Maldives? In the Maldives, the currency is the Maldivian Rufiyaa but US dollars are widely used.
What is the time difference in the Maldives? The Maldives is 4 hours ahead of the UK, or 5 hours during British Summer Time.
What is the weather like in the Maldives? The Maldives enjoys a tropical climate all year round, with temperatures typically between 26°C and 31°C. Expect warm seas, soft ocean breezes, and plenty of sunshine.
When is the rainy season in the Maldives? The Maldives’ rainy season runs from May to November. Showers tend to be short and tropical rather than all-day rain, and you’ll still enjoy warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine in between.
When is the best time to go to the Maldives? Thanks to its tropical climate, the Maldives is a perfect year-round destination with average temperatures between 28°C - 30°C. A popular time to visit is during their dry season from December to April where you can expect more sunshine and fewer showers. The months between May and November do bring occassional showers but also plenty of sun, lush scenery, fewer crowds, and excellent offers at luxury resorts.
How long should you stay in the Maldives? Most people find that 7 to 10 nights is just enough time to switch off and settle into island life however 14 nights is also very popular. Pairing the Maldives with other destinations is also very popular.
Where should I stay in the Maldives? There are plenty of gorgeous private island resorts in the Maldives, many featuring overwater villas, private pools, and direct ocean access. When choosing where to stay, we recommend considering how you'll get there - seaplane or speedboat, the dining options, and overall atmosphere - whether it's family first, adults only, or the perfect mix of both. Our Maldives Specialists can help find the right resort for you.
What's the best island in the Maldives? There is no single best island - the key is finding the island that fits your style of travel. Some islands are close to the airport, some are perfect for snorkelling, some are more romantic, and others are ideal for families. Our tream of Maldives Specialists will be able to find the perfect resort for you.
Should I go All Inclusive in the Maldives? In most cases, All Inclusive is the best choice for a holiday to the Maldives with everything being on one island. With your food, drinks, and often entertainment included, it allows you to fully relax, knowing everything is already taken care of.
What is there to do in the Maldives? There is plenty to experience in the Maldives - you can snorkel vibrant coral reefs, dive with manta rays, enjoy sunset cruises, or unwind with a spa treatment over the water. Many resorts also offer special activities such as private sandbank dining or stargazing experiences.
Is the Maldives good for families? Yes, the Maldives is a fantastic choice for families. Many resorts offer kids' clubs, spacious family villas, and a range of activities to keep the little ones entertained.
Is the Maldives good for couples? Yes, the Maldives is one of the most romantic destinations in the world, making it ideal for couples. With private villas, uninterupted ocean views, and experiences like candleit beach dinners, it's perfect for honyemooners, anniversaries, or simply time away together.
Is the Maldives safe? Yes, the Maldives is considered a very safe destination, particularly within its private island resorts.
Do I need vaccinations for Maldives? There are no mandatory vaccinations for UK travellers but it it always worth staying updated with the latest NHS travel advice before you go.
What plugs do they use in the Maldives? Most resorts use the three-pin plugs (Type G) like the UK.
What should I pack for the Maldives? Think light, relaxed, and beach ready - we recommend packing breathable clothing, swimwear, cover-ups, sandals, sunscreen, smart evening outfits and a waterproof phone case for all the snorkelling you're likely to do.
Travelling to the Maldives
How long is the flight to the Maldives? A direct flight to the Maldives from the UK is approximately 10 hours. If you are travelling on an indirect / connecting flight, your journey will likely take between 12 to 16 hours.
Can you fly direct to Maldives? Yes, direct flights from the UK to the Maldives are available, usually departing from London.
Do I need a visa for the Maldives? UK travellers do not need to arrange a visa in advance. Instead, you will be issued a free 30-day tourist visa on arrival in the Maldives, you will just need a valid passport, confirmed accommodation, and a return or onward ticket.
What is a seaplane? A seaplane is a small aircraft designed to take off and land on water. It is a great way to reach many resorts, with scenic flights offering incredible views of the atolls and turquoise lagoons below. It's more than just a transfer, it's an experience in itself.
Which airlines fly to the Maldives? British Airways, Sri Lankan Airlines, and Turkish Airlines all fly to the Maldives from the UK.
How do hotel transfers work in the Maldives? Once you arrive in Male, you can either take a speedboat or seaplane transfer depending on where your resort is and these are typically arranged alongside your hotel stay. A speedboat transfer can take about 20-60 minutes and a speaplane is used for more remote islands.
While you're in the Maldives
Can you drink alcohol in the Maldives? Yes, you can drink alcohol in the Maldives within licensed resorts and hotels. Within your resort, you should find a full range of premium wines, spirits and cocktails, often included in your All Inclusive stay.
Can you smoke in the Maldives? Yes, smoking is allowed in the Maldives but is usually restricted to designated areas within resorts.
Can you vape in the Maldives? No, you cannot vape in the Maldives. The import, sale, and use of e-cigarettes and vaping devices are banned for both residents and tourists.
Is there nightlife in Maldives? Nightlife in the Maldives is laid back and refined. Expect sunset cocktails, beach bars, live music, and DJ evenings at select resorts.
Mauritius FAQs
Planning your holiday to Mauritius
Where is Mauritius? Mauritius is a tropical island nation in the Indian Ocean, around 1,200 miles off the South-East coast of Africa.
What is the capital of Mauritius? The capital of Mauritius is Port Louis, which is located on the north-west coast.
What language do they speak in Mauritius? The three most commonly spoken languages in Mauritius are English, French, and Mauritian Creole.
What is the currency in Mauritius? The currency in Mauritius is the Mauritian Rupee (MUR).
What is the time difference in Mauritius? Mauritius is 4 hours ahead of the UK during British Summer Time, and 3 hours ahead of the UK during winter time.
What's the weather like in Mauritius? Mauritius enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures throughout the year. From May to November, the island experiences a drier winter with plenty of sunshine and more comfortable humidity levels. The summer months, from December to April, are hotter and more humid, with occasional tropical showers.
When is the rainy season in Mauritius? The rainy season in Mauritius typically runs from January to March, which is also the warmest and most humid time of year. Showers are short and there is still plenty of sunshine between them.
When is the best time to visit Mauritius? Thanks to its tropical climate, Mauritius can be enjoyed year-round. However, the best time to visit is typically between May and November, when temperatures are warm but more comfortable, and conditions are drier with lower humidity and fewer crowds.The island’s summer runs from November to April, bringing hotter, more humid weather and occasional tropical showers, making it a popular choice to escape the UK and catch some winter sun.
Where should I stay in Mauritius? When deciding where to stay in Mauritius, it really comes down to the type of holiday you’re looking for. The west coast (around Flic en Flac) is sunny and sheltered, making it perfect for relaxed beach stays, while the north (including Grand Baie) is more vibrant, with a great choice of restaurants, bars and activities. The east coast (such as Belle Mare) is quieter and home to some of the island’s most beautiful beaches and luxury resorts, while the south (near Le Morne) offers a dramatic, more secluded setting ideal for a peaceful escape. Our Indian Ocean Experts will help match you to the right resort for your style of travel.
Is Mauritius safe? Yes, Mauritius is considered a safe destination for tourists, especially within its resorts.
What plugs do they use in Mauritius? Whilst many resorts in Mauritius have the UK 3-pin plug sockets, many do not, so we would recommended bringing a travel adapter to cover all socket types.
Is Mauritius good for families? Yes, Mauritius is an excellent destination for families. Many resorts offer kids’ clubs, family-friendly accommodation and activities such as snorkelling, boat trips and cultural experiences. The island is safe, easy to navigate and offers plenty of options for both relaxation and adventure, making it a perfect pick for a family holiday to the Indian Ocean.
Travelling to Mauritius
How long is the flight to Mauritius? A direct flight from the UK to Mauritius typically takes around 10 to 11 hours.
Do I need a visa for Mauritius? UK passport holders do not need a visa to visit Mauritius for stays of up to 60 days. You will need a valid passport, proof of onward travel and accommodation details on arrival.
Can you fly direct to Mauritius? Yes, direct flights to Mauritius are available from the UK, primarily from London Heathrow and Gatwick.
Which airlines fly to Mauritius? British Airways and Air Mauritius fly from the UK to Mauritius.
Where is the airport in Mauritius? The main airport in Mauritius is Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport, located in the south-east of the island near Mahébourg. It’s around a 45–60 minute transfer to most major resort areas.
While you're in Mauritius
What is there to do in Mauritius? A holiday to Mauritius can be as relaxed or as action-packed as you like. Spend your days snorkelling over vibrant coral reefs, hiking through lush national parks and waterfalls, or enjoying boat trips and exploring colourful temples. For a slower pace, tee off on world-class golf courses, unwind in a luxury spa, or take a scenic road trip along the island’s stunning coastline.
Can you drink alcohol in Mauritius? Yes, those over the age of 18 can drink alcohol in resorts, bars, and restaurants. We recommend trying their locally produced rum or a glass of their lychee wine, Takamaka.
Are taxis expensive in Mauritius? Taxis in Mauritius are easily accessible and ideal for short journeys and island tours.