Pre Tour Information
Frequently Asked Questions about the Once In A Blue Moon Powwow journey
Activity level?
Gentle hiking, but generally an easy level trip for most activity abilities.
Age restriction?
Adults only – the information load is on the high side for kids under 15.
What kind of weather should I expect in Montana?
We usually expect lovely summer days and cool nights at this time of year
Can I take photos?
In some places absolutely no problem, but at the powwow there are guidelines you will have to follow regarding taking pictures. Remember, the operative word is ‘taking’. But don’t worry because with Go Native America you are guided culturally as well as geographically, so our guides will keep you on the straight and narrow.
Is it safe to be in Yellowstone – between the Super Volcano predictions and the recent grizzly attacks
I’m a little hesitant.
Predictions about when the volcano will blow are varied, but serious geologists believe there is at least another 60,000 years to go. Whenever it does erupt, the sheer volume of a volcano with a caldera that is over 50 miles wide ensures there will be nowhere in America that is not affected, so safety will be out of your hands. Bears and other large mammals however are a different deal altogether – your level of safety is directly linked to your decisions and we will not enter the park until we are sure that every person, young and old, understands the safety rules. There have been two fatal bear attacks this year, and although the reasons for those attacks are complex, both victims unfortunately breached cardinal rules in Bear Country; both ran away – a clear signal to the bear that they were prey to be hunted, and neither carried bear spray – a substance proven to be much more effective against bear attacks than even bullets.
Do I have to bring my own crafting gear? Coming from outside the US will mean it’s hard to
travel light if I do.
No. If you have a particular pair of crafting scissors, or sewing needles you just love, bring them. Any machines or tools will be ready for your use, and you will have opportunity to buy specific supplies to this region that may inspire you when you get home. But if you are new to beading, that’s fine too.
What about supplies – I’m trying skills for the first time here and I prefer to ‘try before I buy’
Of course! We get that. For each new craft skill you try we will equip you with a basic starter pack that will more than satisfy you creatively for that project. Then if that skill resonates with you and you want to take it further you’ll have opportunity to buy a wider range of great supplies.
Transport…
We travel in comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles, ranging from 4-wheel drive vehicles (Range Rover/Jeep Sport Utility or similar) to 15 seat passenger vans. All modes of transport are spacious enough for our tour members to travel in comfort. However, luggage space is of a premium, therefore we urge you to read our 'Packing Checklist' - it is amazing how little you need to take.
Health and Vaccinations...
It is sensible that you have both a dental and medical check-up and we recommend that you ensure your Tetanus inoculations are up to date.
Baggage Allowance...
With limited room available in the vehicles it is important that everyone travel as light as possible. Please bring a soft hold-all / sports bag, and not a hard suitcase. Hotels will have laundry facilities and these are generally big, fast and easy to use.
Accommodation/Lodging…
Wherever possible, we support tribally owned and/or operated properties. We stay in a wide range of good quality accommodations on our journeys. All rooms are en-suite as standard; many have swimming pools and often laundry facilities. We choose from established hotel chains, log cabins in National Parks or unique period properties.
Temperature/Weather...
Usually our trips are planned for optimum weather conditions, however this is the plains and deserts of Arizona! Please take nothing for granted - things can change very quickly. You will need good sunscreen and sunglasses, a sunhat and a fleece jacket. Be prepared, and expect the unexpected.
You’ll need broken in hiking/walking boots or shoes, and the best way to dress is to layer, layer, layer! A good daypack is useful. Overall the tour is very casual – no need to dress for dinner, et al.
Insurance…
Travel insurance is a vital aspect to booking a holiday, giving you protection against unforeseen circumstances that could otherwise spoil your holiday. It is important that you purchase travel insurance that properly covers your participation in whatever activities you may undertake at the time that you make your booking. We strongly advise you obtain travel insurance at your time of booking so that you are protected against cancellation and you must provide us with details of your insurance with your final payment. For your own safety and protection, we will not allow tour members to alight our vehicles unless we have copies of your travel insurance policy, or you have US health insurance in place.
How to Book…
Before you book, we recommend that you carefully read the enclosed information and itinerary. To book your place on this tour, please telephone or email with any questions you may have about the tour, then book the tour online on our secure site. A deposit of $750 is due in order to hold your space on the tour or if you book less than twelve weeks prior to departure, full payment is due at the time of booking.