Travel FAQs

Journyze prioritizes traveler safety with comprehensive risk management protocols. We provide access to emergency assistance 24/7, implement travel advisories and alerts, and collaborate with trusted suppliers and partners to maintain high standards of security and support.

Journyze simplifies expense management with detailed reporting and tracking capabilities. We streamline reimbursement processes, ensuring transparency and compliance with company policies, while optimizing cost efficiency through careful monitoring of travel expenditures.

Yes, Journyze specializes in personalized travel solutions. Whether it's dietary preferences, specific room requirements, or custom itineraries, we work closely with travelers to meet their needs and enhance their travel experience.

Journyze offers centralized booking services where we manage reservations for multiple employees seamlessly. We streamline the process through our platform, ensuring efficient scheduling, cost management, and compliance with corporate travel policies.

Journyze offers flexible support for changes and cancellations. Our dedicated team manages modifications swiftly, ensuring minimal disruption to travel schedules while adhering to applicable policies and minimizing associated costs whenever possible.

Travel insurance is essential for safeguarding your trip investment and ensuring peace of mind while traveling. It typically covers a range of unforeseen events, including trip cancellations, medical emergencies, lost luggage, and travel delays. This protection can help you recover non-refundable expenses and provide support in emergency situations, ensuring that unexpected issues do not derail your plans.

At Journyze International, we partner with trusted suppliers like Allianz and GeoBlue to offer comprehensive travel insurance options tailored to your specific needs. These providers are renowned for their reliable coverage and exceptional service, ensuring that you are well-protected no matter where your travels take you.

Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) travel.state.gov

Before traveling abroad, U.S. citizens are encouraged to register with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate through the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). STEP is a free service that allows travelers to receive important information about safety conditions in their destination country and helps the U.S. embassy contact them in case of an emergency.

How to Register with STEP:

1. Create an Account:
   

   • Visit the STEP website and click on "Create an Account."

   • Provide your personal information, including your name, date of birth, and contact details.

1. Enroll Your Trip:
   

   • After creating an account, log in and select "Add a Trip."

   • Enter details about your upcoming travel, such as destination(s), dates of arrival and departure, and accommodation information.

1. Receive Updates:
   

   • Once enrolled, you'll receive real-time updates about health, weather, safety, and security conditions in your destination country.

   • In case of an emergency, the U.S. embassy can contact you with instructions on what to do.

Benefits of Enrolling in STEP:

• Stay Informed: Receive timely alerts and updates about potential risks in your destination.

• Emergency Assistance: Facilitates communication between you and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate during emergencies.

• Family Communication: Helps your family and friends in the U.S. reach you in case they cannot contact you directly.

For more information and to enroll, visit the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) website.

As a U.S. traveler, you may be eligible to reclaim the Value Added Tax (VAT) paid on retail purchases in certain countries. VAT is a consumption tax included in the price of goods and services in many countries, particularly in Europe. Reclaiming VAT can result in significant savings on your purchases. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the VAT refund process:

1. Understand VAT and Eligibility

• What is VAT? VAT is a tax levied on goods and services at each stage of production and distribution. The rate varies by country, typically ranging from 5% to 25%.

• Eligibility: Non-residents of the country where the purchase is made are generally eligible for a VAT refund on goods intended for personal use and exported within a specified timeframe. Services like hotel stays and meals usually do not qualify for refunds. Afar
  

2. Shop at Participating Retailers

• Look for Participation: Ensure the retailer participates in the VAT refund scheme. Participating stores often display "Tax-Free" or "VAT Refund" signs.

• Minimum Purchase Requirement: Be aware that many countries set a minimum purchase amount to qualify for a VAT refund. For example, in France, the minimum is €100 per store per day. Rick Steves' Europe
  

3. Request a VAT Refund Form

• At the Time of Purchase: Ask the retailer for a VAT refund form (also known as a Tax-Free form) when making your purchase. You'll need to provide your passport to complete the form.

• Complete the Form: Fill out the form accurately, including your personal details and purchase information.

4. Validate Your Purchases at Customs

• Before Departure: At the airport or border crossing, locate the customs office before checking in your luggage.

• Present Documentation: Show your completed VAT refund forms, receipts, passport, and the purchased goods (unused and in their original packaging) to the customs officer.

• Obtain a Stamp: The customs officer will stamp your VAT refund forms, validating your claim. Without this stamp, your refund cannot be processed.

5. Submit Your Refund Claim

• Refund Processing: After customs validation, proceed to a VAT refund counter or service desk (such as Global Blue or Premier Tax Free) within the airport.

• Choose Refund Method: Select your preferred refund method—cash (often subject to a fee) or credit card. Be aware that credit card refunds may take several weeks to process.

6. Additional Tips

• Time Constraints: Goods must typically be exported within three months of purchase to qualify for a refund. Taxation and Customs

• Service Fees: Refund service providers may charge a processing fee, which will be deducted from your refund amount.

• Keep Copies: Retain copies of all documents submitted for your records.

By following these steps, you can effectively navigate the VAT refund process and maximize your savings while shopping abroad.

A: In the event of an emergency, follow these steps to ensure your safety and get the help you need:

1.Contact Local Emergency Services

• First, dial the emergency number of the country you’re in (e.g., 112 in the EU, 911 in North America) to get immediate assistance. Local authorities are equipped to respond quickly to health, safety, or security issues.

2.Reach Out to Journyze for 24/7 Support

• After ensuring your safety, contact the Journyze team. We are here to assist with logistical support, guidance, and travel adjustments if needed.

• Call Us: Dial+1 800-734-5843 to speak directly with a representative.

• Text Us: Send a text to +1 800-734-5843 with your name, location, and brief details of the emergency. Our team will respond promptly.

3.Keep Us Updated

• As your situation progresses, stay in contact with Journyze so we can provide ongoing support and coordinate any additional arrangements as necessary.