Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are flights included in the cost of my trip?
International flights to and from the destination are not included in the program fee. Discover Corps has a partnership with several agencies who can assist in organizing airfare if needed. For more information click here.
Q: Can I travel solo? Are there additional fees?
We welcome solo travelers on all trips, and there is no additional fee unless a single room upgrade is requested. On select trips, we include dates that say STS (Solo Traveler Savings), which offer a single room upgrade for no additional cost. Locate these available dates on the calendar.
Q: What does ‘double occupancy’ mean?
Does that mean the trip prices covers two people? Double Occupancy refers to the accommodations (double room). The program fee you see on each trip page is per person.
Q: Are there age restrictions on your trips?
The minimum age requirement 5 years of age.
Q: I have a disability or someone in my family has a disability – will that be an issue?
Generally no, but it depends on the severity of the issue. Many countries outside of the U.S. do not adhere to the same wheelchair accessibility as the U.S., so we recommend contacting Discover Corps directly to discuss and determine which trip would work best.
Q: I have special dietary requirements – will that be an issue?
In Bali, we are able to accommodate most dietary restrictions such as vegan, vegetarian and gluten free. We do our best to accommodate all diets, but we do recommend you still inquire with a Discover Corps Travel Specialist about specific needs.
Q: Is the water safe to drink in the country I’m visiting?
It is generally not safe or recommended to drink the tap water in Bali.
Q: Do I need travel insurance? What should it cover?
Travel Insurance is not required but we highly recommend that a plan is purchased to protect any delays or cancellations that could incur. For more information click here.
Q: Do I Need a Visa?
Visa-on-Arrival: You can apply for a visa on arrival at some international airports, seaports, or land crossings. To apply for the visa on arrival, you must have an ordinary (non-emergency) passport with at least 6 months of validity from the date you plan to enter and the date you plan to leave Indonesia and a return or onward flight booking to another country. There is a 500,000 Indonesian Rupiah fee (about $35). The visa on arrival is valid for up to 30 days.
Electronic Visa-On-Arrival: You may also apply for an electronic Visa on Arrival (e-VOA) in advance if you are entering Indonesia at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Jakarta or Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali. Check the e-VOA requirements from Indonesian Immigration before applying. To apply for an e-VOA see https://molina.imigrasi.go.id/.
Q: Are my belongings safe while I’m on my trip? Are there safes for storing valuables?
Yes. We trust that your belongings are protected while under our staff’s watch. The managers and staff at the accommodations pride themselves in having a comfortable and secure property where their guest feel safe and at home.
Q: Is tipping commonplace in the places we’re visiting?
On most trips, tips are provided for restaurants, hotels, and baggage. However, on all trips, tips are suggested for the guide and the driver. For guides, it is recommended to tip between $5-7 USD per adult traveler per day whereas drivers should be given about $3-5 USD per adult traveler per day.
Q: Are Discover Corps trips suitable for LGBTQ travelers?
Yes, we are confident that LGBTQ travelers would be more than welcome on our trips and in Bali.
Q: I’m concerned about the political stability and/or safety of the country we’re visiting. Is it safe?
Discover Corps holds the safety of our travelers and staff as our #1 priority. We provide safe and secure lodging, healthy, hygienic meals and bottled water, safe and comfortable transportation, and expert local knowledge in order to facilitate safe travel programs. We are constantly keeping up with local news in the countries we visit and can help answer any concerns that may arise before your departure or during your trip.
Q: What is the best way to carry money?
It’s best to divide money into different places and keep small bills handy. In some destinations, accommodations offer safety boxes. If you need money once in-country there will be ATMs to take out money throughout the trip.
Q: Is refrigeration available for medicines?
Yes, most of the hotels in Bali that travelers stay in do offer refrigerators. Most guest houses/homestays have a refrigerator in the kitchen. Please inquire with us so that we can confirm whether or not a refrigerator will be available.
Q: What if I end up ill or get injured on the trip and am unable to continue? What happens then?
In the case of injury or illness, first and foremost, we would seek proper medical attention. In each of the locations we operate, we have designated medical clinics and hospitals that we take travelers to in such cases. Discover Corps also includes a comprehensive medical insurance policy for each traveler who goes abroad with us. Please see the medical insurance section. If you are unable to join Discover Corps prior to the trip, travel insurance will cover the costs depending on the severity of and reason for the situation. You can inquire ArchRoam Right for exact policies and the guidelines.
Q: What type of luggage do you recommend I take?
Overall, the rule of thumb across all of our trips is to pack as lightly as possible. This will simply reduce the amount of luggage you are carrying around throughout the trip and make things easier. Typically, rolling luggage works best, but keep in mind that uneven sidewalks and cobblestones in many destinations may make this more difficult.
Q: What clothes and footwear should I pack?
Each destination varies in climate, so it is recommended to look over the packing list that is provided under each destination. Please reference the packing list.
Q: What essential documents do I need to take?
Any international travel requires a valid passport. Discover Corps recommends you take 2 photo copies of your passport and leave one at home and take the other with you. For Bali, you also need a visa. Please check the visa section.
Q: Can I opt out of certain activities?
Travelers can opt out on certain activities, but keep in mind that each program is a set price and includes most activities.
Q: Will my mobile phone work? Will I have access to the Internet?
It’s not guaranteed that your phone will work, we recommend reaching out to your cell phone provider to see the available international plans.
Q: Do I need to get vaccines before I travel?
According to the Center of Disease Control and Prevention, there are no vaccinations required in order to travel to Bali. However, we also recommend consulting with your local travel clinic for recommended inoculations for all international travels.
Q: How Far in Advance do I need to Reserve my trip?
The farther in advance you book, the better selection of dates you’ll have. On most trips, you’ll want to book 3 to 6 months out. For holiday trips, you’ll want to reserve 6 to 8 months out. Rest assured, though, we’re also masters at accommodating last-minute reservations!
Q: What substances are banned in Bali?
The laws regarding drug possession (including marijuana) and use in Bali, Indonesia, are very strict. Even a small amount of it can lead to serious punishment, including imprisonment or worse. Prescription medications can be brought in but need to be in their original container with the label and prescription.