Frequently Asked Questions
- About Our Journeys
- What Is Spira Travel's Strength
- Booking & Planning
- Special Requests and Customization
- Pricing & Payment
- Safety Measures
- During Your Trip
- Travel Documents & Requirements
- Cancellations & Changes
- Contact & Support
About Our Journeys
What type of journeys do you offer?
We curate immersive journeys to Armenia, Georgia, Egypt, and Ethiopia. Each destination is carefully selected and personally explored by our team. Every itinerary is thoughtfully designed around authenticity, cultural depth, and meaningful encounters revealing the stories, people, and places often overlooked by conventional tours.
Are your journeys guided?
Yes. Every experience is led by highly knowledgeable local guides and experts who speak English, with other languages available depending on demand. This ensures each journey is enriched with authentic storytelling, expert insight, and genuine connection that goes beyond a typical sightseeing tour.
Do you offer private or tailor-made itineraries?
We offer both. Alongside our curated collections, we design fully bespoke itineraries for individuals, families, and groups including VIP and government-level travel built around your interests, pace, and priorities.
What makes Spira different from a standard tour operator?
Spira was founded by industry insiders, not intermediaries. Our team’s direct government, operational, and on-the-ground experience means every itinerary reflects real expertise not a repackaged brochure tour.
What Is Spira Travel's Strength
What sets Spira apart from other travel companies?
Spira was built by industry insiders, not intermediaries. Our Co-Founder Siranush spent seventeen years at the highest levels of Armenia’s tourism industry — partnering with American travel companies, serving on Armenia’s Tourism Committee, and designing itineraries for governments and VIP travelers. Co-Founder Naveen Macardell brings a management background from a Silicon Valley tech company and firsthand experience in over 150+ countries. Together, that combination of destination-level expertise and operational
discipline is what allows us to deliver depth and distinction in every journey we design.
Why should a partner or client trust Spira with their travel program?
Trust is earned through track record, not marketing. Our credibility at the government and diplomatic level, our direct relationships with leading suppliers, and our founders’ hands-on experience mean fewer surprises, tighter execution, and journeys that consistently exceed expectations whether for an individual traveler, a corporate program, or a government delegation.
What does 'Depth & Distinction' mean in practice?
It means every itinerary goes beyond standard sightseeing. Depth comes from our insider access real relationships with local experts, government contacts, and communities. Distinction comes from the level of precision and care applied to every detail, from planning through to the final day of travel.
Booking & Planning
How far in advance should I book?
We recommend booking 2–3 months ahead for standard itineraries, and 4–6 months ahead for tailor-made journeys, peak season travel, or larger groups, to secure preferred accommodations and experiences.
Can I customize an existing itinerary?
Absolutely. Every published itinerary can be adapted — pace, accommodation level, activities, and dates can all be adjusted to fit your preferences.
What information do you need to plan my trip?
To get started, we simply need your destination of interest, preferred travel dates, group size, and what matters most to you whether that's culture, cuisine, adventure, or a specific occasion.
Do you work with travel agents and corporate clients?
Yes. We partner with travel agencies, DMCs, corporate travel managers, and government bodies, offering tailored programs, group rates, and dedicated account support.
Special Requests and Customization
Can you accommodate dietary restrictions or allergies?
Yes. Let us know at the time of booking and we will coordinate with our restaurant and accommodation partners to ensure your needs are met throughout the journey, including allergies, vegetarian, vegan, halal, kosher, and other dietary requirements.
Can you arrange celebrations or special occasions during a trip?
Yes. We regularly build in surprises for birthdays, anniversaries, honeymoons, and other milestones — from a private dinner at a historic site to a personalized detour. Tell us the occasion and we’ll design something memorable around it.
Can the pace or activity level of an itinerary be adjusted?
Yes. Every itinerary can be slowed down, sped up, or reshaped around your energy level, mobility, and interests whether that means more free time, additional excursions, or a more relaxed daily schedule.
Can you accommodate accessibility needs?
Yes. Please share any mobility, sensory, or accessibility requirements when booking so we can select accommodations, transportation, and activities suited to your needs.
Can you build a fully custom itinerary from scratch?
Absolutely. Beyond adapting our existing collections, our team designs bespoke, private itineraries for individuals, families, corporate groups, and government delegations — built entirely around your goals, timeline, and preferences.
Pricing & Payment
What is included in the price?
Inclusions vary by itinerary but typically cover accommodation, private or small-group transportation, curated experiences, and all activities outlined in your program. Full details are provided per journey.
Are international flights included?
International flights are generally not included unless explicitly stated. Our team is glad to assist with tailored flight recommendations upon request.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept bank transfer and major credit cards. A deposit is typically required to confirm your booking, with the balance due ahead of departure — full terms are shared at the time of booking.
Is travel insurance required?
We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance covering medical care, trip cancellation, and personal belongings for all journeys booked with us.
Safety Measures
What safety measures do you have in place during a trip?
Every journey is led by a vetted, experienced local guide, supported by vehicles and drivers we trust and monitor closely. Our team continuously tracks local conditions in each destination and adjusts plans as needed to keep travelers safe and informed.
Are your guides and drivers trained in emergency response?
Yes. Our guides and drivers are experienced professionals familiar with the terrain, culture, and emergency procedures specific to each destination, and are equipped to respond quickly if a situation arises.
What happens if there is an emergency during my trip?
You will always have 24/7 access to our support team in addition to your on-the-ground guide. In the event of an emergency, we coordinate directly with local authorities, medical services, and your travel insurance provider to resolve the situation as quickly as possible.
Do you monitor political or security conditions in your destinations?
Yes. Given our government-level relationships and on-the-ground presence in each destination, we closely monitor local conditions and will proactively adjust itineraries if safety considerations require it.
During Your Trip
What is the typical group size?
Group sizes vary by itinerary. Our curated collections are generally kept small to preserve an intimate, immersive experience, while tailor-made journeys can be arranged for solo travelers, couples, families, or larger private groups.
What level of physical activity is required?
This varies by itinerary and is clearly noted in each program description. Our team is happy to recommend journeys suited to your fitness level and mobility needs.This varies by itinerary and is clearly noted in each program description. Our team is happy to recommend journeys suited to your fitness level and mobility needs.
Is support available during the trip?
Yes. You will have a dedicated local guide and 24/7 access to our support team throughout your journey, so help is always close at hand.
What if I have dietary restrictions or special requests?
Please let us know at the time of booking. We work closely with our partners to accommodate dietary needs, accessibility requirements, and special occasions such as anniversaries or milestone celebrations.
Travel Documents & Requirements
Do I need a visa to travel?
Visa requirements depend on your nationality and destination. We provide guidance during the planning process, but recommend confirming current requirements with the relevant embassy or consulate before travel.
What documents do I need to bring?
A valid passport (with at least six months’ validity beyond your travel dates), any required visas, proof of travel insurance, and any destination-specific documentation, which we will outline in your pre-departure information.
Are vaccinations required for any destinations?
Requirements vary by destination. We recommend consulting your physician or a travel health clinic ahead of your trip, and we’re happy to share destination-specific guidance where available.
Cancellations & Changes
What is your cancellation policy?
Cancellation terms vary by itinerary and season and are outlined clearly at the time of booking. In general, deposits are non-refundable, and refund eligibility decreases closer to departure.
Can I make changes to my itinerary after booking?
Yes, where possible. We will always do our best to accommodate changes, though adjustments close to departure may be subject to availability and supplier terms.Yes, where possible. We will always do our best to accommodate changes, though adjustments close to departure may be subject to availability and supplier terms.
What happens in the event of unforeseen circumstances (e.g., weather, safety issues)?
Your safety is our priority. Should conditions require an itinerary change, our team will work with you in real time to adjust plans and minimize disruption.
Contact & Support
How can I get in touch with your team?
Email us at [email protected], or reach us by phone or WhatsApp:
Armenia:
No chatbots, no call centers — a real person who knows your destination will get back to you within24 hours.