WILDWOOD FAMILY YMCA GROUP TRIP FAQS
1. Is there someone I can meet with in person before we go on the trip? Yes! We will have an information meeting before each of our trips to go over the itinerary, guidelines, safety, and questions. This meeting is not mandatory and will take place 1-3 weeks before your trip.
2. Do you have to be a member of the YMCA to go on the trips? No. These trips are open to all.
3. Do your prices cover the whole trip, starting from the Wildwood YMCA? Yes! The prices and itineraries you see available on our website cover the entire trip, starting from Wildwood. Our prices include round-trip motor coach transportation, all lodging (including en-route hotels), admission to all attractions, and some of your meals. *Souvenirs, alcoholic beverages, extra activities you wish to participate in, and “on your own” meals are not included.
4. Where can I park my vehicle? Parking for overnight trips is available on the far right side of our parking lot (nearest our Community Garden).
5. What kinds of motor coaches or buses do we use for our trips? We use only top-quality motor coaches that are less than 4 years of age, with at least 54 seats, and that are video and restroom equipped.
6. How often do the buses stop? We stop every 1 1/2 -2 1/2 hours to stretch our legs and take a restroom break. We try to stop at historical or recreational points of interest. If those are unavailable, we may also stop at rest stops.
7. What kind of things can we do on the bus? We are the “Fun Bus!” We play group games, watch fun movies, tell jokes, we have “wonderful” prizes, and snacks and waters are included! We also make sure to have quiet times for those who enjoy reading, talking to each other, and maybe even enjoying a nap.
8. What kinds of hotels do you use? In order to keep our trips as affordable as possible, we usually book non-smoking rooms with either two double or queen-size beds in major franchise hotels (Holiday Inn & Express, Hampton Inn & Suites, etc.).
9. When will I receive a full itinerary for our trip? We have flyers with the daily itineraries listed on our website and hand-held copies available at our Welcome Center. Our more detailed daily itineraries with times will be sent out via email to participating trip-goers 2-5 weeks before our trip.
10. What kind of restaurants do you stop at for the meals that are not included in the trip? We attend restaurants such as Cracker Barrel, Ruby Tuesdays, Olive Garden, steak houses, local restaurants of interest (such as Lambert’s), and mall areas. We try to make restaurant stops that have multiple restaurant choices available, so everyone can find something they enjoy.
11. Do you have to be a senior citizen to attend these trips? Can I bring my daughter/son/friend/cousin/grandchild, etc.? The majority of our group are active older adults (30+). However, we welcome mature adults of all ages. *Must be at least 18 years of age to attend a trip.
12. Are these trips mostly for couples? Our group is usually a mix of couples and singles traveling.
13. What kind of clothing should I pack? This depends on the individual trip. We will discuss what clothing to bring at our informational meeting before our trip. If you are unable to attend the meeting, note that we also send out emails to all trip participants with a clothing list.
14. Can I bring a wheelchair/walker or other equipment? Yes! We will have space under the bus for a walker or cane. Wheelchair-equipped buses are available, but we will need to know as soon as possible in order to book the wheelchair-equipped bus.
15. Is smoking allowed on the bus? No. There is no smoking allowed on the bus. We also ask that you refrain from wearing strong perfumes or colognes in order to help all passengers remain comfortable.
16. Is there assigned seating on the bus? No, however, the first 4 seats are reserved for tour guides/supplies and the first few rows on the bus are reserved for those with mobility limitations and motion sickness. The rest of the bus is first come/first serve on our first day of travel. After this, due to Covid, we are asking that you please remain in the seats that you chose on the first day.
17. Can I leave the group to do activities on my own? Yes, absolutely. You are free to call a taxi and go on your own if that is something you would be interested in. All expenses would be your responsibility and please let the tour director know if you will be leaving the group.
18. Who can I reach out to if I have more specific trip questions? Please email Tiphanie Johnston for any other questions you may need help with.