Circumpolar Expeditions -Travel to Alaska, Russian Far East, Siberia, and Arctic and even to the North Pole.

How do I get there? Most of our tours originate in Anchorage, Alaska. Our tours to Chukotka originate in Nome, Alaska. We can assist you on making any of your necessary travel arrangements from anywhere in the world.

Can you organize a tailor-made tour or combine two or more tours for me? Sure. If you would like to have a special trip for yourself or any number of participants, such as families, clubs, societies and companies, we will do our best to fulfill your requirements.

Is there a guide for every tour? Most of the time. Many departures are accompanied by at least one guide and, in some cases, there are two or more guides (in addition to local experts who often add further insight and knowledge). We believe that qualified guides are very important. From a practical point of view, especially when traveling to remote places, their considerable experience in travel can help to smooth the way and, indeed, they often solve problems before they are even noticed by members of the group. Our guides also enhance every tour: they are chosen for their leadership abilities, enthusiasm, sense of humor, and desire to share their extensive knowledge and love of the wildlife.

Are wildlife sightings guaranteed? There are no guarantees, of course, because we have no control over either the weather or the wildlife. Even after many years of living in the North we can never predict exactly what we will see. But that is all part of the fun! Nevertheless, we put a great deal of time and experience into identifying the best locations, and the best times of the year, to maximize our chances of seeing the most interesting species. We also try to keep our itineraries flexible to deal with unforeseen circumstances and to take advantage of new opportunities.

Am I too young - or too old? Most of our guests are in their 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s or 60s, but some participants are in their teens and many are in their 70s or 80s. If you are young at heart, and are in reasonably good health, you will be able to enjoy any of our tours. Occasionally, we warn of potential problems - for example, if you have a bad back and boat rides are likely to be bumpy, it is worth checking the specific information for individual tours. Some of the tours are unsuitable for young children, but there are others for which we accept bookings for kids under 16s accompanied by an adult.

Do many people travel alone? A typical group consists of an interesting cross-section of people: traveling alone, with friends, or with their partners (men and women travel in roughly equal numbers). The basic prices are based on two people sharing a double room. If you are traveling alone, you can either share with another member of the group of the same gender (if there is someone available and willing to share), or you can pay the whole price and have a room to yourself (subject to availability - please ask for details).

Do trips involve a lot of physical exertion? The level of physical exertion will depend on your tour choice. We offer a variety of trips with the aim of accommodating as many different agenda's, goals, and vacationing styles as possible. In short, we prepare trips which are conducted entirely with the support of vehicles and airplanes and require little or no physical strain (Grade B) as well as trips which require a high level of physical conditioning and consecutive days of hiking over difficult terrain (Grade D). All our tours are graded for the level of physical exertion required. Please see an explanation of our tour grading system below for a better idea of the type of trip which you would like to participate in.

Walking Grades and Fitness
Grading is a somewhat difficult topic as much depends on the individuals own perception of his or her abilities. The following is intended as a general guide to our grading system. The levels of difficulty are divided into categories B/C/D. Although the trekking is not at great altitude, it occasionally traverses rough terrain and involves some long days and steep climbs.

Grade B walks (Moderate): are for those of any fitness level who are able to traverse moderately hilly terrain. Walking is limited to day excursions from a central location to which you will be transported. These day hikes are normally no more than 6 hours in duration and all walking may be done with no backpack or with a light day pack.

Grade C walks (Strenuous): are for the more serious hill walker and a higher level of physical fitness is required. However, no special physical preparations should be needed. Walking days are normally 6-8 hrs and may involve up to 900m of ascent and descent. You should be prepared for several consecutive days of walking, sometimes at higher altitudes, so stamina is important. However, occasionally rest days in the course of the trek will be included.

Grade D walks (Tough): require that you are very fit and previous trekking experience is strongly recommended. Grade D includes long walks with steep uphill and downhill gradients. There will be some hiking at high altitudes (up to 4000m) and corresponding cold weather conditions. These treks will also involve several long days (up to 8-9 hours) of trekking continuously without a rest day.

The tour descriptions provide more specific details.

Can I take a different flight or add one to the itinerary? Yes. If you would like to leave a little earlier, or stay after the tour has finished, send us an e-mail or call, and we will be pleased to help. Alternatively, you may like to combine two or more tours into one long trip (and, of course, save money on airfare). Wherever possible, our staff will tailor-make an itinerary to suit your own needs.

Are the itineraries likely to change? We try to keep to the itineraries as closely as possible, and while major changes may be necessary, they are unlikely. However, we do like to remain flexible - depending on the weather - to make the most of every opportunity.

How can I get a visa? After we've received a signed Booking form from you, we will provide you with all the necessary information and paper work for any visa or permissions you might need.

Is Russia safe? Yes. just like anywhere in the world today Russia is generally safe. The hotels we use are secured and you are quite safe to walk around the towns or villages. People are usually friendly and can be very helpful. You just need to use common sense and avoid obvious danger, just like in any other foreign city.

How do I obtain more information? info@arctictravel.net and we will be happy to answer all your questions and provide further information

What items do I need to bring with me for a trip? We will provide you with an equipment list when necessary.

Can porters be hired? Porters are not a standard part of our tours or tour cost. They must be specially requested if available.

Can I use my Visa Card and/or Travelers Checks in Russia ? Credit cards are not widely accepted in the Russian Far East. However, in some of the larger cities they can be used and there bank machines as well. Most banks are unfamiliar with Traveler's Checks and therefore cashing them is an ordeal and sometimes can not be done. In any case you should have some ready cash on hand in US Dollars when you come to Russia.

What type of electrical outlets are used in Russia? The electric current in Russia is 220 volts AC, 50 Hz. European type plugs are required. To use US electrical equipment, bring converter & adapter.

How do I obtain information on Russian foods? Contrary to popular belief, Russian food is as varied as it is delicious. Depending on where you will be traveling to. Sweet treats like blini (small pancakes filled with fish, meat, melted butter or sour cream) or aladyi (crumpets with the same filling and jam). There can be local Arctic Blueberries, Brownberries, Cowberries and Honeysuckle berries. Many varieties of Russian cheeses, breads and meats - and check out the tasty individual-size cream cakes.

Here are some famous (and not so famous) Russian Epicurean "musts":
Borsch (borscht). This hearty red soup, traditionally prepared from beets and cabbage and served with a dollop of sour cream is a most popular first course. There are no less than 40 varieties of hot and cold borsch, depending on the vegetables and or meat in them. All borscht recipes are slowly simmered for maximum flavor. Soak up the juices with chunks of fresh sourdough bread, or tiny garlic buns - akin to the ubiquitous garlic bread of Italian cuisine. A good borscht should be so thick with vegetables that, according to an old rule, a wooden spoon will stand upright when stuck into the pot. Sometimes the borscht is served as one-course meal.

Beef Stroganoff. Finely chopped beef in a creamy sauce. The name of this dish comes from Russian Count Grigory Stroganoff (1770-1857) who was one of the richest noblemen and held the highest diplomatic posts. A great gourmet, he loved delicious dishes and always had the best cooks. One of them invented an original dish from scraped meat and it was very much to the Count's taste. The dish took the name Stroganoff, but perhaps unfairly, the cook's name was forgotten. Bad karma though - word got around that it was a dish made especially for the ageing, toothless Count who couldn't handle a beef steak anymore.

Pirozhky (pirozhki, pirohi, pirogui). These are small or large baked or fried cigar-shaped pies filled with meat, fish, vegetables or berries. Mushrooms. A northern delight. Pelmeni. A sort of ravioli this contribution to traditional Russian cuisine are delicious meat filled dumplings. As a delicious main course for lunch or dinner, they can be served drenched in butter or Siberian Style - sprinkled with vinegar and spiced with freshly ground pepper.

Is there anywhere I can leave a bag I don't need on my trip outside a town or city? Absolutely you can separate the things you don't need for a trip, put it in a bag and leave it with us, so we'll take care of it until your return.



	3201 West 31st Ave Suite # 101 Anchorage, Alaska 99517 907-272-9299 \| 888-567-7165 \| fax 907-278-6092 \| info@arctictravel.net Fequently Asked Questions How do I get there? Most of our tours originate in Anchorage, Alaska. Our tours to Chukotka originate in Nome, Alaska. We can assist you on making any of your necessary travel arrangements from anywhere in the world. Can you organize a tailor-made tour or combine two or more tours for me? Sure. If you would like to have a special trip for yourself or any number of participants, such as families, clubs, societies and companies, we will do our best to fulfill your requirements. Is there a guide for every tour? Most of the time. Many departures are accompanied by at least one guide and, in some cases, there are two or more guides (in addition to local experts who often add further insight and knowledge). We believe that qualified guides are very important. From a practical point of view, especially when traveling to remote places, their considerable experience in travel can help to smooth the way and, indeed, they often solve problems before they are even noticed by members of the group. Our guides also enhance every tour: they are chosen for their leadership abilities, enthusiasm, sense of humor, and desire to share their extensive knowledge and love of the wildlife. Are wildlife sightings guaranteed? There are no guarantees, of course, because we have no control over either the weather or the wildlife. Even after many years of living in the North we can never predict exactly what we will see. But that is all part of the fun! Nevertheless, we put a great deal of time and experience into identifying the best locations, and the best times of the year, to maximize our chances of seeing the most interesting species. We also try to keep our itineraries flexible to deal with unforeseen circumstances and to take advantage of new opportunities. Am I too young - or too old? Most of our guests are in their 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s or 60s, but some participants are in their teens and many are in their 70s or 80s. If you are young at heart, and are in reasonably good health, you will be able to enjoy any of our tours. Occasionally, we warn of potential problems - for example, if you have a bad back and boat rides are likely to be bumpy, it is worth checking the specific information for individual tours. Some of the tours are unsuitable for young children, but there are others for which we accept bookings for kids under 16s accompanied by an adult. Do many people travel alone? A typical group consists of an interesting cross-section of people: traveling alone, with friends, or with their partners (men and women travel in roughly equal numbers). The basic prices are based on two people sharing a double room. If you are traveling alone, you can either share with another member of the group of the same gender (if there is someone available and willing to share), or you can pay the whole price and have a room to yourself (subject to availability - please ask for details). Do trips involve a lot of physical exertion? The level of physical exertion will depend on your tour choice. We offer a variety of trips with the aim of accommodating as many different agenda's, goals, and vacationing styles as possible. In short, we prepare trips which are conducted entirely with the support of vehicles and airplanes and require little or no physical strain (Grade B) as well as trips which require a high level of physical conditioning and consecutive days of hiking over difficult terrain (Grade D). All our tours are graded for the level of physical exertion required. Please see an explanation of our tour grading system below for a better idea of the type of trip which you would like to participate in. Walking Grades and Fitness Grading is a somewhat difficult topic as much depends on the individuals own perception of his or her abilities. The following is intended as a general guide to our grading system. The levels of difficulty are divided into categories B/C/D. Although the trekking is not at great altitude, it occasionally traverses rough terrain and involves some long days and steep climbs. Grade B walks (Moderate): are for those of any fitness level who are able to traverse moderately hilly terrain. Walking is limited to day excursions from a central location to which you will be transported. These day hikes are normally no more than 6 hours in duration and all walking may be done with no backpack or with a light day pack. Grade C walks (Strenuous): are for the more serious hill walker and a higher level of physical fitness is required. However, no special physical preparations should be needed. Walking days are normally 6-8 hrs and may involve up to 900m of ascent and descent. You should be prepared for several consecutive days of walking, sometimes at higher altitudes, so stamina is important. However, occasionally rest days in the course of the trek will be included. Grade D walks (Tough): require that you are very fit and previous trekking experience is strongly recommended. Grade D includes long walks with steep uphill and downhill gradients. There will be some hiking at high altitudes (up to 4000m) and corresponding cold weather conditions. These treks will also involve several long days (up to 8-9 hours) of trekking continuously without a rest day. The tour descriptions provide more specific details. Can I take a different flight or add one to the itinerary? Yes. If you would like to leave a little earlier, or stay after the tour has finished, send us an e-mail or call, and we will be pleased to help. Alternatively, you may like to combine two or more tours into one long trip (and, of course, save money on airfare). Wherever possible, our staff will tailor-make an itinerary to suit your own needs. Are the itineraries likely to change? We try to keep to the itineraries as closely as possible, and while major changes may be necessary, they are unlikely. However, we do like to remain flexible - depending on the weather - to make the most of every opportunity. How can I get a visa? After we've received a signed Booking form from you, we will provide you with all the necessary information and paper work for any visa or permissions you might need. Is Russia safe? Yes. just like anywhere in the world today Russia is generally safe. The hotels we use are secured and you are quite safe to walk around the towns or villages. People are usually friendly and can be very helpful. You just need to use common sense and avoid obvious danger, just like in any other foreign city. How do I obtain more information? info@arctictravel.net and we will be happy to answer all your questions and provide further information What items do I need to bring with me for a trip? We will provide you with an equipment list when necessary. Can porters be hired? Porters are not a standard part of our tours or tour cost. They must be specially requested if available. Can I use my Visa Card and/or Travelers Checks in Russia ? Credit cards are not widely accepted in the Russian Far East. However, in some of the larger cities they can be used and there bank machines as well. Most banks are unfamiliar with Traveler's Checks and therefore cashing them is an ordeal and sometimes can not be done. In any case you should have some ready cash on hand in US Dollars when you come to Russia. What type of electrical outlets are used in Russia? The electric current in Russia is 220 volts AC, 50 Hz. European type plugs are required. To use US electrical equipment, bring converter & adapter. How do I obtain information on Russian foods? Contrary to popular belief, Russian food is as varied as it is delicious. Depending on where you will be traveling to. Sweet treats like blini (small pancakes filled with fish, meat, melted butter or sour cream) or aladyi (crumpets with the same filling and jam). There can be local Arctic Blueberries, Brownberries, Cowberries and Honeysuckle berries. Many varieties of Russian cheeses, breads and meats - and check out the tasty individual-size cream cakes. Here are some famous (and not so famous) Russian Epicurean "musts": Borsch (borscht). This hearty red soup, traditionally prepared from beets and cabbage and served with a dollop of sour cream is a most popular first course. There are no less than 40 varieties of hot and cold borsch, depending on the vegetables and or meat in them. All borscht recipes are slowly simmered for maximum flavor. Soak up the juices with chunks of fresh sourdough bread, or tiny garlic buns - akin to the ubiquitous garlic bread of Italian cuisine. A good borscht should be so thick with vegetables that, according to an old rule, a wooden spoon will stand upright when stuck into the pot. Sometimes the borscht is served as one-course meal. Beef Stroganoff. Finely chopped beef in a creamy sauce. The name of this dish comes from Russian Count Grigory Stroganoff (1770-1857) who was one of the richest noblemen and held the highest diplomatic posts. A great gourmet, he loved delicious dishes and always had the best cooks. One of them invented an original dish from scraped meat and it was very much to the Count's taste. The dish took the name Stroganoff, but perhaps unfairly, the cook's name was forgotten. Bad karma though - word got around that it was a dish made especially for the ageing, toothless Count who couldn't handle a beef steak anymore. Pirozhky (pirozhki, pirohi, pirogui). These are small or large baked or fried cigar-shaped pies filled with meat, fish, vegetables or berries. Mushrooms. A northern delight. Pelmeni. A sort of ravioli this contribution to traditional Russian cuisine are delicious meat filled dumplings. As a delicious main course for lunch or dinner, they can be served drenched in butter or Siberian Style - sprinkled with vinegar and spiced with freshly ground pepper. Is there anywhere I can leave a bag I don't need on my trip outside a town or city? Absolutely you can separate the things you don't need for a trip, put it in a bag and leave it with us, so we'll take care of it until your return. 3201 West 31st Ave Suite # 101 Anchorage Alaska 99517 907-272-9299 \| 888-567-7165 \| fax 907-278-6092 email at info@arctictravel.net

Fequently Asked Questions