Frequently Asked Questions
Will there be a Catholic Priest with the group?
Yes, each of our Pilgrimages has a Catholic Priest in addition to a representative to a Mater Dei Tour Director. Also, a local Tour Guide and Driver (or Tour Guide/Driver in Ireland) and possibly local city or regional guides from the places we visit.
What Quality are the Hotels and do they have private bath?
Mater Dei Tours uses 1st class and above categories of hotels on our tours. All of the hotels we select offer private bathrooms (ensuite). Usually 4 stars or more.
Do you recommend Travel Insurance?
Yes - Travel Insurance is highly recommended. If you did not receive a travel insurance flyer with your confirmation - please contact us and we will be glad to forward the details.
Will there be daily Masses?
Yes, daily Mass is scheduled in advance on all of our pilgrimages. Usually at unforgettable locations. We also pray the daily rosary, and a chaplet of Divine Mercy. In addition to doctrinal material, we also provide meditations with quotes from Saints, theologians, Popes and Doctors of the Church. Sacrament of Confession is offered with every pilgrimage.
How many people will be on each group?
Our groups vary in size, but are generally between 25 to 50 participants (1 bus load). As a rule, Mater Dei Tours usually never takes more than one bus (in rare exceptions, we take 2 buses). A pilgrimage atmosphere of contemplation cannot be properly maintained with large groups of multiple buses. Large groups never provide enough time for everyone to meet each other in the group. And large groups risk the accessibility to the Sacraments (especially the Sacrament of Confession which is an important part of a True Catholic Pilgrimage).
How do I secure my space on the tour?
Your deposit and completed registration form secures your space. Simply print and complete our online form and fax, email a photo, email a scanned document, or mail the copy to this address listed on the contact section of the website). Call us today if you require a hard copy of the brochure.
What is a single room supplement?
Hotels throughout Europe, Mexico and the Holy Land, base their rates on double occupancy, per person. When a room is occupied by one person, these hotels require a single supplement to help cover the loss of the second occupant. In some cases, the single rooms may be smaller, but will still require a single supplement.
Is there an escort from Mater Dei Tours on the Pilgrimage?
Unless otherwise requested by an organizing parish, club or a Priest, all of our pilgrimages will have a Director from Mater Dei Tours from start to finish. Whenever one of our Director is not accompanying the pilgrimage (rare occasion), the tour will be called a "St. Joseph Tour" and not Mater Dei.
Is there a dress code on a Pilgrimage?
Modest dress is expected while visiting Religious Sights. We encourage our participants to avoid shorts and sleeveless shirts. Women should also avoid short (above the knee) skirts and pants, sleeveless blouses, and may need a head covering for visits to some holy sites. This is particularly important in Italy and the Holy Land where guards are sometimes standing outside shrines denying entry to those not respecting the dress code of that particular holy place. The Vatican display sign below found at the entrance of St. Peter's Basilica can help provide a visual of these restrictions.
Will I have to Walk a lot on the Pilgrimage?
Each of our itineraries vary on the level of walking required. On average you can expect to walk between 1-3 miles per day. If you have difficulty walking, please discuss this with our staff prior to registering, We will make every attempt to accommodate your needs based on your abilities.
May I bring a wheelchair on the tour?
Wheelchairs may be brought on tour. Please arrange for a travel companion to aid you while on tour to push and lift you or your chair if necessary. While most motor-coaches have the "kneeling" system to help you climb into the bus, they do not have accessible ramps to enter with a wheelchair. Pilgrims must be able to climb 3 to 5 steps (depending on the model) to enter the coach. Some destinations are not wheelchair accessible friendly.
Is there a bathroom on the motor-coach?
Every attempt is made to provide coaches with onboard bathrooms. However, if we are unable to provide a coach with facilities, we will always make frequent stops. These onboard bathrooms should be used in emergency cases only.
How do I exchange or obtain money?
U.S. currency may be exchanged in advance at your local bank or upon arrival in the foreign country. Further, you may obtain currency via your ATM card or your major credit card. More information about this and many other essential travel question, will be mailed to you with your travel documents.
Do I Need A Passport?
If you are leaving the United States on any of our Pilgrimages - Yes! Travel Outside the United States requires a US Passport. Many countries require that your Passport is valid 3 months beyond your return travel dates (Israel requires 6 months minimum validity beyond your return date). You must have a valid US Passport in order to enter both Mexico and Canada!
When will my deposit be charged?
Your deposit is due with your registration. This deposit may be charged immediately, or it may take some time for our accounting department to do so. If that is your case, Mater Dei will still cover the deposits (owed to our vendors to hold your space) on your behalf. All mutual obligations to the agreed terms and conditions apply once your registration is received. Failure to pay a deposit with a registration will result in no reservation being made. Please read your trip's terms and conditions for more information, or just call us if you have any further questions!
When will my balance be charged?
Your balance payment is due by the registration deadline announced on each trip's brochure and registration. This balance may be charged to the same card used for the deposit (we only require a written emailed note stating your wish to use the same card). If a new card is used, then a new credit card form is required. Mater Dei also accepts check, money orders and cash. Failure to pay your balance on time may result in cancellation and forfeiture of your deposit. Please read your trip's terms and conditions for more information, or just call us if you have any further questions!
