Butterfield & Robinson

Questions & Answers

Here we have collected and answered the most frequently asked questions.

• What is the average group size with B&R tours?

  Small Group Published Trips – these are tours with a set departure date and limited group size with a mix of travellers typically unknown to each other. Group sizes range from 16-24 travellers.
  Self-guided Trips – with a pre-set itinerary ready to book at any time, these tours allow travellers to pick up and go on their preferred date with their own personal group. Group size can vary from 2-20 with little to no modifications to tour itinerary.

• What kind of training do B&R guides have?

  All of our multi-lingual guides undergo extensive training and assessments to ensure they are fully versed on delivering the best and safest B&R experience. Our guides are selected based on comprehensive criteria with both written and in-person interview components. Positions with B&R are extremely competitive with over 500 applicants each season and a guide loyalty rate of 95%.
  Our training includes two guide conferences per year. These conferences allow guides to work one-on-one with B&R design and operational staff and provide an opportunity to share collective learnings, traveler insights, case studies and new approaches. All new guides receive 7 days of training while returning guides receive 3 (including professional development opportunities and our guide mentorship program). Bike skills, public speaking, supplier relations, accounting, interpersonal/conflict resolution, customer service standards and accident and safety procedures are all covered in the program. B&R also utilizes an in-depth online guide communications “hub” that encompasses learning management with interactive tutorials, training videos, process documents, mobile ready trip information/reports, as well as collaborative sharing and communication tools.
  In the event of an accident all B&R guides are trained to stay with an injured traveler, accompany them to the hospital, and provide ongoing one-to-one support until the traveler returns to the trip or travels back home. All guides are CPR certified and able to handle first aid requirements.

• What kinds of tours do B&R specialise in?

  B&R specialises in luxury travel with or without an active element. We deliver a perfect recipe of ingredients that bring the very best out of the people we meet and the places we go to.
  Unparalleled routes - Crafting the finest routes is our métier. We use our extensive local knowledge to find quiet roads, incredible scenery, and great locals to visit. And if we can’t? Well, now you know why we haven’t blanketed the globe.
  Exceptional hotels - Our hotels are unique expressions of the region. Oftentimes that means our hotels have had a previous life as a monastery or a castle. Best of all? We’re friends with our hôteliers, which means preferential treatment for you.
  Signature B&R guides - They are the consummate hosts. Bright, charming, ebullient. Alter egos include architects, painters, photographers, travel writers, teachers, botanists and biologists. They’re fun—the kind of fun you want to sit (or ride) next to.
  The dress rehearsal - It’s something only a group as meticulous as B&R would ever do. But we are self-admitted perfectionists. Our guides scout every inch of your trip the week before it runs. That way there are no surprises (except good ones).
  Cultural immersion - We slow down and completely immerse you in the local culture. It’s easy to do when you’re an honorary local yourself, you’re deeply rooted in the region, and you have the key to wherever-you-want-to-get-in.
  Your pace - She’s on her third descent. He’s on his third cappuccino. There’s no such thing as “off the pace” when you set it yourself. This is one of the joys of travelling with B&R. You go as fast or as slowly as you want.
  Ultimate freedom - We’ve turned travel into an art form. We put you deep into the particulars of a region, and then step back so you have the freedom to make the experience your own. We have thought of everything, so you don’t have to.

• Do I have to be physically fit to take your tours?

  Not at all! Butterfield & Robinson offer active tours to suit any level of fitness, whether you wish to participate at a leisurely pace or you're the enthusiast ready for a challenge. If you lead an active lifestyle, like to swim, golf, walk or bike, you shouldn't have any difficulties joining these tours. Butterfield & Robinson offer a whole range of activity levels where you can choose the one that suits you best then set your pace. You are free to add a few kilometres or take a shorter route back or even relax by the pool for the day. The support vehicle will always be on hand should you wish to take a break while on route.