Traveler's Resource Website |
CORO NACIONAL DE PUERTO RICO
VOICES UNITE!
Coastal California Choral Festival 2025
AUGUST 14 -18, 2025
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open the Menu bar by clicking on the icon in the upper left corner.
We look forward to providing you with helpful information through your group’s custom Traveler's Resource Site in the months leading up to your departure. Hopefully, this site's features will make anticipating your trip even more exciting! Visit your site often to view your daily itinerary as it evolves, including concert details, to read about the places you will visit, access links to destination-specific content, get advice on what to pack, and much more.
For quick access to any section of this website please click on the three bars in the upper left corner to access the drop-down index.
Your Traveler's Resource Site also offers convenient access to our web payment portal, where you can make your tour payments, view previous payments, and see upcoming payment dates.
Table of Contents
- Tour Handbook & Final Itinerary
- Tour Inclusions
- Tour Package Prices
- Payment Account Portal
- Travel Tips
- Health & Wellness Travel Tips
- Useful Resources
- MCI Social Media
- Destination Video
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Music Contact International Contact Information
TOUR HANDBOOK & FINAL ITINERARY
Click the button below to view a digital version of your tour handbook with final the itinerary.
*Your Tour Leader will receive a physical copy of the handbook for each travel member in the weeks leading up to your tour. Please refer to your Group Leader with any questions.
Festival Inclusions:
ACCOMMODATIONS - thoughtfully selected to match group needs
- 4-night hotel stay in the The Wayfarer San Luis Obispo, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
MEALS - varied, flavorful, and highlighting local cuisine
Breakfast daily at your hotel
- Festival reception at the Harold Miossi Hall in the Performing Arts Center San Luis Obispo.
PERFORMANCES, WORKSHOPS, and EXCHANGES that are customized, unique, and inspiring
Music is the heart of this tour and the suggestions made here reflect the type of performances, venues, musical exchanges, and experiences we will arrange for your ensemble. Impromptu singing on tour is encouraged!
5 performance & singing opportunities*:
- 2 group rehearsals with all participating choirs & local orchestra
- Evening concert in the Mission San Luis de Tolosa
- Late afternoon/evening concert at a renown winery in the Paso Robles region
- Morning worship service at local church in San Obispo
- Festival performance of Carmina Burana with all participating choirs & local orchestra
*These arrangements are pending confirmation. Confirming concerts is a process, which requires registration of your ensemble for this tour along with your current biography, sound samples, photos, and repertoire. In some cases, additional separate applications must also be submitted. Organizers, venues, and hosts need to then approve each proposed concert. Music Contact International manages this process and is excited to share updates as performances confirm.
TOUR MANAGER to handle on-the-road logistics
- Full-time tour manager to accompany your group from arrival through departure
TRANSPORTATION in California
- A private, modern, and climate-controlled motor coach with a professional driver for all group transfer services specified in your itinerary.
INSURANCE that covers our commitment to you
Music Contact International, Inc. holds $5,000,000.00 of Travel Agent and Tour Operator Professional Liability Insurance.
TOUR ENHANCEMENT MATERIALS to help plan, promote, and prepare for your tour
- A customized tour handbook with hourly itinerary, packing tips and lists, practical “Things to Know”, destination background, and other fun content. This printed booklet is provided for each traveler about a month before departure.
- A luggage tag, passport/document holder for each traveler is also included.
MUSIC CONTACT INTERNATIONAL SERVICES go beyond logistics
- A unique opportunity to make lifelong friends through music and pilgrimage! When we bring groups together, friendships develop that frequently extend to years of heartfelt reunions on tours we plan around the world.
- You are in good hands! We’ve got 30+ years’ experience arranging custom cultural and special interest tours, performance tours and festivals for choirs, bands, and orchestras.
- Our MCI team is the best in the business! We are musicians, teachers, event planners, parents, performers, volunteers, travelers, linguists, athletes, and more, from many countries, sharing our expertise at producing great tour experiences.
TOUR PACKAGE PRICE
LAND PACKAGE - based on a minimum of 30-paying travelers:
OPTIONAL ADD-ON:
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Your tour includes everything above. Here’s what’s not included:
Official ID, visa or other required travel documents | Fees for extra, oversize or overweight baggage | Luggage handling at airports and hotels | Musical instruments including rental of piano and keyboard | Transportation of oversized instruments | Meals, entrance fees, and coach transfers not mentioned above | Drinks with meals unless specified | Gratuities for tour managers, local guides, coach drivers, hotel staff | Travel insurance (additional information on insurance is enclosed).
Please let us know if you would like any of these items added to your tour.
TRAVEL PROTECTION is recommended!
Music Contact International recommends purchasing a travel protection plan through Travel Insured. This link is also available online via your Traveler's Resource Site. Please review coverage options very carefully and contact Travel Insured Inc. directly with any insurance-related questions.
Travel Tips
LUGGAGE:
We recommend that you travel with one suitcase with wheels that you can easily maneuver and one compact bag, backpack or purse. Limiting your luggage to one piece makes it easier for you to handle getting in and out of buses and hotels.
Please refer to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) website at www.tsa.gov or your individual airline's website for up-to-date packing restrictions. Note that certain items are not allowed in your carry-on bag, such as bottles full of water or large tubes of toothpaste. For a comprehensive list of these items, refer to your airline’s website.
We recommend that you carry all of your valuables including your medication, jewelry, money, passport, eyeglasses, contact lenses, camera, computer, and chargers onto the plane with you to reduce the chance of their being lost. We also recommend carrying your toothbrush and a change of shirt and underclothes, in case your suitcase is delayed.
AIRLINE ALLOWANCES:
- Most airlines allow ONE checked bag not to exceed 62" total (length + width + height). Again, check the airline website for latest updates. Checked baggage fees may apply.
- WEIGHT LIMIT: Not to exceed 50 lbs per bag. Some airlines charge for each checked bag, and all airlines charge for additional bags. Again, check your airline's website for details. Checked baggage fees may apply.
- ONE CARRY ON: Most airlines allow one complimentary carry-on bag (to fit in the overhead compartment) and one complimentary personal item (to fit under the seat in front of you). The airline will strictly enforce the carry-on bag rules. Please keep in mind that all carry-on bags are subject to search.
3-1-1 LIQUIDS RULE:
- You are permitted by the TSA to bring one quart-sized bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes through the checkpoint. These are limited to 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per item. Check the TSA website for further details.
WHAT TO BRING:
- Passport or Goverment-Issued ID
- orhandbook
- Flight e-ticket record, located inside your MCI neck wallet
- Concert attire and shoes
- Music for concerts, if applicable
- Instruments and other concert props, if applicable
- Credit and debit cards with PIN numbers
- Cash in small denominations in home or local currency (best used only as back up to credit and debit cards with PINs)
- Secure purse or wallet for your valuables, ideally with a zipper
- Pen or pencil for note taking and journal writing
- Phone and/or camera with extra memory card
- Chargers for electronics and phone
- MCI electrical adapter (we will send this to your Group Leader prior to travel)
- Personal toiletries
- Medications in original bottles
- Reading material, music, headphones
- Eye shades, ear plugs, inflatable pillow
- Weather-appropriate touring clothes (please no bare shoulders or short shorts at churches and holy sites)
- Shawl to cover shoulders/legs and to keep you warm
- Comfortable, weather-resistant walking shoes or sneakers
- Bathing suit
- Sunglasses & sunscreen
- A light weatherproof jacket or raincoat
- Collapsible umbrella, just in case!
- Eye glasses, contact lenses and lens solution
- Wash cloth
- Hand wipes or liquid sanitizer
- Band aids and tissues
- Refillable water bottle (a clear bottle is ideal, as some attractions to do not allow visitors to bring opaque bottles)
- Snacks
PACKING MEDICATION:
- Individuals who must carry medications in large supplies (such as insulin for diabetics) are advised to carry a memo on physician’s letterhead stating the following: full name of the drug, condition for which it was prescribed, dosage per day, quantity of drug necessary for the period of time traveling and a section stating that it is required for the well-being of the individual. It is also suggested that all medications be carried in their original containers with the pharmacist’s label attached.
- It may be required to show such documentation when passing through customs. Please refer to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) website at www.tsa.gov or your individual airline's website for official instructions on transporting medications.
PACKING TIPS:
When preparing for a trip, remember that packing light can really make your tour experience more enjoyable. Here are a few packing tips of our own that we find helpful when preparing for a trip:
- Luggage – It is best to travel with wheeled luggage or bags that can comfortably be strapped over one or both shoulders to make it easier for you to maneuver or carry. We recommend walking around with your luggage at home to test whether or not it is manageable to move with before your trip. It is also advisable to bring a small day bag to use as your carry-on so that you can comfortably carry items around with you while on tour.
- Pack light! – Before departing for your trip, make a list and go through each individual object that you are considering to decide whether or not it is crucial to have with you. The less you bring, the less you will need to roll or carry when you arrive in airports and hotels and get on and off the bus. Plan your attire for each day of your tour so you can maximize on the mix and match options. A pair of black pants for example can be worn for a few days with different tops. One blazer can serve for many different outfits.
- Organization – When packing your luggage, remember that you will want your clothing and other items to be easily accessible. Rolling clothing, rather than folding and stacking it, helps to conserve room in your suitcase and will help ensure that that outfits are easily reached. When folding items that wrinkle easily such as dress shirts, try laying a t-shirt or other non-wrinkle item on it and folding that into the shirt; this will help to keep deep creases from forming. Most hotels will have an iron in your room that you can also use to make sure your clothes look nice.
- Footwear – We recommend bringing as few pairs of shoes as possible on your tour since they take up a lot of space and can be heavy. You should be sure to bring shoes that are comfortable, have been broken in and have proper walking support since you will be spending a fair amount of time on your feet.
ALWAYS REACHABLE:
Regardless of how you choose to communicate with friends and family back home, you may always be reached at your hotel. Hotel phone numbers are listed in your handbook. The person trying to reach you need only call the hotel and ask for you by name. The hotel will forward the call to your room or pass on a message if you are out.
- In case of emergency, your family can also contact Music Contact International and our staff will contact you through your tour manager. To reach Music Contact International call: 1-802-862-2200 or 1-800-624-0166
CARDS:
Bring your ATM card and your credit card along with your Personal Identification Numbers (PIN). Remember to store your PIN numbers with you in a secure location. Machines are often available and offer convenient cash 24 hours a day. Many ATMs are compatible with major credit cards and Plus and Cirrus networks.
GRATUITY:
We recommend designating one person in the group to be in charge of tipping for the group. Tips should preferably be offered in cash, in either USD or local currency.
Any weather can be great for touring! It is a good idea to know in advance what the weather will be so you can plan accordingly. About a week before your departure, you can begin to see reliable forecasts for the cities and regions you will visit. Check those forecasts online or in an international newspaper and plan for the specific weather you are likely to encounter.
"Wherever you go, no matter what the weather, always bring your own sunshine." -Anthony J. D'Angelo
San Luis Obispo, California
If you are planning on traveling with instruments or other equipment, please send us the dimensions (length x width x height) and weight of each item in its hard cover case. Also please indicate if the item will be checked-in or carried-on the plane, and note the traveler responsible for that item. Instruments can only be checked-in if they are in a hard cover case.
- Please send us the list as soon as possible; the sooner the airline receives your list, the more cooperative they will be. Airlines require that we send this list at least 45 days in advance of your departure in order for them to give us an estimate of any extra baggage fees that may be incurred. After that, we cannot guarantee that the airline will be able to quote fees prior to departure.
- Although the airline will provide estimated baggage fees for instruments, these costs can only be confirmed at check-in.
Health & Wellness Travel Tips
Our first priority is each traveler’s health and safety while on tour. In order to support that goal, we encourage our travelers to be fully vaccinated prior to travel. It is not possible to socially distance during a group tour and masking on the motorcoach will not be enforced unless local rules necessitate it.
Here are some additional tips to keep you healthy and happy while on tour.
Exploring on foot is one of the best ways to discover a new place, to see sights and to get a feeling for the local atmosphere. Your tour is sure to include ample walking. Many cities restrict motor coaches from their city centers in order to preserve the atmosphere and to reduce wear and tear.
- Therefore, many interesting sites are only reachable on foot. Motor coaches are sometimes asked to park in designated areas, often a 10 – 20 minute walk from the site being visited. Therefore, walking becomes necessary to get to the heart of the city.
- If you aren’t accustomed to being on your feet, we suggest that you prepare for your travels by increasing your level of activity during the months before departure. Even a few walks a week will help to make exploration on foot more enjoyable during your tour.
- Check online for inspiring websites or phone apps you can use to help you get excited to walk. Try wearing a pedometer and see if you can increase your number of steps each week; shoot for a goal such as 10,000 steps a day before you leave. No better excuse to get moving than a wonderful trip on the horizon!
- We also recommend that you pack comfortable walking shoes. Aching feet can be a painful distraction, so plan to wear shoes you can comfortably walk in for lengths at a time. If you buy new shoes for the trip it’s a good idea to wear them before you travel so that they are comfortable while on tour.
- Travelers with limited mobility can ensure their comfort, as well. If you have mobility limitations, please let your director know in advance. Please complete our limited mobility form so we can anticipate your needs. If you will need a wheelchair, plan to bring one along for use during the tour. Make sure you have made arrangements with a fellow traveler who is willing and able to assist you with pushing your wheelchair and helping you board the motor coach.
One of the most enjoyable ways to learn about a new culture is through experiencing the local cuisine. However, we understand that for travelers with dietary restrictions or food allergies, this element of travel can be a challenge. At Music Contact International, we will do everything we can to help make your dining experiences as stress-free as possible.
- Travelers with dietary restrictions or food allergies should let their group leader know as soon as possible so that the necessary information can be included on the group’s rooming and flight lists.
- For meals arranged for the group, Music Contact International will advise restaurants of dietary restrictions of which we have been informed in advance of travel. In addition, we suggest that you inform your tour manager of your dietary restrictions upon arrival so they can be sure that you get the necessary modified meal each time.
- Travelers with food allergies are advised to be diligent about talking to the restaurant staff at each establishment where they eat, either on their own or at organized group meals. Music Contact International will of course inform the restaurants in advance, and your tour manager will be on-site to request any needed modifications, but the final responsibility is with the traveler to make sure they are only served food they can safely eat.
- All travelers should consider bringing along some snack foods that they can easily carry in their day packs. This will help to keep energy levels high and ensure that you will always have food on hand that you know you can safely consume.
Here are some great ways to keep your body loose during a long flight!
Neck Rolls: Relieve Upper Body Tension
- Keeping your spine straight and your shoulders rolled back, place your hands on your upper thighs and roll your head back as you inhale. As you exhale, slowly rotate your head forward. Repeat five times in one direction and five times in the other direction.
Spine Flex: Release Blockages in Spinal Column
- Slide to the edge of your seat and align your feet with your hips. Place your hands on your thighs and, while you inhale, roll your shoulders back, arch your chest up and out and lift your chin. On your exhale, roll your spine forward and look down. Follow this flow for 10-20 breaths.
Leg & Hip Stretch: Flex and Relieve Knee Pressure
- With your legs together, press your left foot firmly into the floor, bend your right knee and bring your right thigh into your chest. While maintaining a straight back, tilt your knee to the outside slightly, place your left palm onto the sole of your foot & lightly press down on the right knee with your right hand for 5-10 seconds. Repeat 10-20 times on each leg.
There are many more beneficial poses like these to try out, but hopefully, you and your group find these to be a nice, mindful way to prepare yourself for your upcoming adventures!
With some basic preparation, your in-flight experience can be a wonderful opportunity to unwind both before and after your tour. We recommend taking the following easy steps:
Board your flight dressed in light layers
Stow a small carry-on bag under your seat to ensure easy access to your essentials while in the air
Pack the following items to use on board:
- an empty, reusable water bottle – fill it up once you’ve cleared airport security and stay hydrated throughout the flight
- healthy, light snacks
- a lightweight scarf or shawl – use it as a blanket or extra layer
- a travel pillow
- socks
- tissues
- chewing gum – help ease the changing pressure by chewing as you adjust altitudes
- hand lotion
- a toothbrush and toothpaste – freshen up mid-flight or before you land
- books and magazines
- podcasts or a movie – download these ahead of time
- headphones (noise-cancelling, if you have them)
- chargers and a backup battery – land at your destination with fully charged devices
Useful Resources
Individual Travel Insurance
To help protect your investment of travel and yourself while you are away, consider purchasing travel protection from Travel Insured International. These protection plans include pre-departure benefits such as Trip Cancellation and post-departure benefits such as Accident & Sickness Medical, Baggage, and Personal Effects/Baggage Delay, Emergency Medical Evacuation, Missed Connection, Trip Delay and Trip Interruption. Purchase travel protection within the time specific periods detailed in the plan to be eligible for all plan features, such as Cancel For Any Reason* and the Pre-Existing Conditions Waiver. In addition, plans include 24/7 Emergency Assistance Services that are provided by an independent organization, and not by United States Fire Insurance Company or Travel Insured International.
*Not available to residents of New York State.
In order to buy travel insurance online through Music Contact International and Travel Insured, enter the Travel Insured website via the link here.
- 1.When you have reviewed your options by reading the plan’s details and getting a quote, click on the “Purchase this plan” button below the plan you would like to purchase.
- 2.A new window will open where you can enter your trip details and then click the “Update” button to see your price quote.
- 3.Under trip details, do not select a tour operator.
- 4.Enter payment details and leave the AGENT CODE/INITIALS field blank.
- 5.Click “Purchase” and your policy will arrive by mail.
Travel Insured states: “Pre-existing Medical – you are eligible for Pre-existing Medical Conditions coverage if you purchase the policy within 21 days after your initial trip deposit, are medically able to travel at the time of purchase and insure the full non-refundable cost of your trip.” You must be medically able to travel when you pay your premium. “Initial Trip Payment” means the date the first deposit is made to your travel agent toward the cost of your trip. So it is beneficial for you to purchase your insurance as soon as you register for your trip.
For any questions/comments regarding Travel Insured International please contact the insurance company directly:
1-800-243-3174
Travel Insured International
855 Winding Brook Dr
Glastonbury, CT 06033-6503
Login to your group's web payment site here.
California awaits..
Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome to your Traveler’s Resource Site! Here at Music Contact International, we are committed to bringing you the travel experience of a lifetime! As you get excited and begin making plans for your upcoming trip, here are some helpful resources and information to guide you.
In this section you will find answers to frequently asked questions on the following topics:
- General (Includes questions about the itinerary, dietary restrictions, mobility restrictions, and package prices)
- Hotels and Rooming Arrangements
- Flights
- Using the Web Payment System
- Special Payment Arrangements
- Travel Insurance
- Cancellations/Terms & Conditions
- The Help Desk
I have some questions about my tour. How do I find answers?
- You have come to the right place! We know that the tour planning process can be overwhelming at times, so we are happy to offer a variety of helpful resources to best answer your questions!
I have questions about using the Web Payment System:
- If you are having difficulties navigating or using our Web Payment Site, or have a question about a payment, please send your inquiry to our Help Desk using this link: https://musiccontact.zendesk.com/hc/en-us/requests/new. Our Help Desk team is happy to assist and troubleshoot as needed. Someone from our team will be sure to reply to you within two business days.
I have questions about my itinerary, travel preparation, or my destination(s):
- The best (and most up-to-date) resource for tour-specific details is your customized Traveler’s Resource Site! Hotel names, flight details, and performance opportunities will be posted here as soon as they are confirmed. For your convenience this site also has many wonderful travel tips; from packing tips to budgeting, your Traveler’s Resource Site is your guide to help you prepare!
I have other questions:
- If you have any questions not answered on the Traveler’s Resource Site, please share them with your group leader. If your group leader doesn’t know the answer, he/she will convey all questions to us and then, in turn, communicate our answers back to the whole group. Following this process allows everyone in the group to benefit from the same information at the same time since often other travelers have similar questions!
I have a dietary restriction. How do I communicate this to MCI?
- Our team will be happy to notify restaurants of any allergies or dietary restrictions. It is important that we are aware of these issues well in advance. Please make sure to clearly communicate dietary restrictions to your group leader, who will pass these notes along to us. The more specific you can be, the better able our team will be to make reasonable accommodations!
- Even after these measures, you are still your own best advocate. It is always a good idea to check in with your server at mealtimes, and inform them of any dietary restrictions.
- Note: If your group is using our Web Payment System, you will have an opportunity to indicate any special dietary needs on your personal profile.
I have limited walking mobility. Is there a lot of walking on tour?
- Most tours do involve at least some walking. In fact, sometimes, especially for international travel, getting around by foot is the best and only way to experience a city’s landmarks! It is also important to note that sometimes the terrain can be uneven (cobblestone streets for example). We want you to get the most out of your travel, so if you have any doubts about your ability to walk while on tour, we recommend that you speak to your group leader. You may wish to request a wheelchair by obtaining a Limited Mobility Form from your group leader.
I need a wheelchair. How do I request this?
- In order to best understand and accommodate any physical limitations, we ask that you complete our Limited Mobility Form. You can request this form from your group leader.
Will my package price ever change?
- To keep costs low and make your tour as affordable as possible, package prices are based on a minimum number of travelers. If your group numbers change significantly, this does mean your package price could change as a result. Note: you will always be notified of any pricing changes.
How will rooming requests be submitted?
- For your convenience, your group leader will collect any rooming requests and submit a master rooming list to MCI. We will follow these instructions and make the necessary arrangements to ensure that your check-in process goes as smoothly as possible!
Has my roommate told you we’re rooming together?
- If you’re not sure whether your roommate request has already been submitted, please reach out to your group leader. Your group leader will keep a master rooming list and can make sure that your request is passed along to MCI!
Learn how to access and create your payment site account by watching this short video. Click here for part 2 of the payment site tutorial, see how to navigate your payment account, including how to edit your account and make payments. I’m a non-traveling parent, but my child is traveling, and I want to oversee his/her account. What do I do?
- No problem! When you create your child’s payment account, make sure to use your own email address and password, but your child’s first and last name. This way, the account will appear in the traveler’s name, but you will have complete access to it, and you will receive any email notifications associated with it. Another option, if you do register your name as a participant, is to select “Not Traveling” in the “Select Packages & Options” step. Then, add your child as an additional participant, and select their applicable travel package.
I’m traveling with friends and family. Should we register separately, or together?
- Registering multiple participants in the same account is useful when one traveler (the primary contact) is paying for multiple travelers. In this case, the primary contact can log in and make payments for the combined costs of their party members in one account.
- If you wish your friends or family to pay individually, they should create their own account. Forward them the link to the Traveler’s Resource Site and they can register themselves. If you have any payment site questions or need to make changes to your account, our Help Desk is happy to assist!
I need to make a change to my account. How do I do this?
We understand that life happens and that sometimes changes and adjustments to your account are needed! Simply follow the instructions below to make or request changes:
I entered my name or personal information incorrectly and want to change it. How do I do this?
- Great question! As you may already know, it is very important that you enter your name and personal details on the Web Payment Site exactly as they appear on your passport or ID.
- If you need to make a change to your first or last name, you’ll notice that these fields are locked. However, our Help Desk team is happy to make any necessary edits for you. Simply submit your request and someone will assist you within two business days!
- If you need to add or change any other details (like passport number, middle name, or even contact information), you can update these fields yourself at your convenience! Just follow these steps:
- 1.Log into your account.
- 2.Under “Participants”, click the “View/Edit” button to the right of your name.
- 3.From there, you may update your personal information.
- 4.Make sure to click the “Save” button on the bottom of the page if you make any changes.
I want to change my package selection from the land & air package to the land package or vice versa. How can I do this?
- To make a change to your package selection, simply submit a request through our Help Desk. A member of our Help Desk team is happy to assist and reply to your request within two business days.
I need to change the number of travelers in my account. How do I do this?
- No problem! If you made a duplicate entry for a traveler, our Help Desk team can assist you in removing the duplicate traveler from your payment account. You won’t be able to remove the traveler yourself, but if you submit a request through the Help Desk, our team will be happy to assist you.
- If the traveler you are seeking to remove from your account is a cancellation from the tour please see the Cancellation/Terms & Conditions FAQs further down the page.
How do I sign up for an optional excursion?
- Signing up for an optional excursion is easy and can be completed by logging into your payment account! Once you have logged in, simply locate the “Packages & Options” section of the page, and select the “Add/Change Packages and Options” button. Select the option that you’d like to add to your account and remember to click the “Save” button. Please note: you will also be asked to process a payment for the full price of the option.
I’m not sure if I will participate in group flights or book flights myself. Which package should I select?
- Our recommendation, to make sure that we hold enough seats for all travelers, is to select a “land and air package” if you think that you might need to book flights through MCI. If you change your mind, we can always change you to a “land package” later. In this case, any funds you previously paid will be applied to your new land package balance, as long as you are within the stated deadlines for your group.
I submitted a check directly to my group leader. When will this check be applied to my online account?
- Checks submitted directly to your group leader will be applied to your final balance. However, the time required for funds to be applied to your online account may vary, depending on when the check(s) make their way to our office. As soon as we receive the funds, our team will begin this process, and will notify your group leader when completed!
How will my fundraising get applied to my account?
- Your group leader will send MCI a group fundraising check and a list detailing the amount each traveler will receive. Once received, we will use this list to apply amounts to your final balance. Please note that processing time varies.
I’m not receiving payment reminders. How can I troubleshoot this?
- If you aren’t receiving automated payment reminders, our first recommendation is to save noreply@music-contact.com as a trusted email contact. Certain email providers may block these reminders or send them to a Spam folder. If you continue to experience issues, please contact our Help Desk team!
I accidentally paid the wrong amount. Please help!
- No need to worry! We can void your payment or issue you a refund. Please contact our Help Desk and inform us of the mistaken transaction; we’ll work to fix this in a timely manner and notify you as soon as it is reversed.
I can’t use a computer, and I’d like to pay by check or over the phone. What do I do?
If you are unable to use a computer, we are happy to make alternate accommodations for you. Please use one of the two methods to submit your payments:
- 1. Call us at 1-800-624-0166 and a member of our staff can process your debit or credit card payment over the phone.
- 2. Submit a check payment* to the following address:
Music Contact International
119 S. Winooski Ave.
Burlington, VT 05401
*On each check, make sure to clearly note the traveler name and ensemble name so our team can determine where to apply the funds.
I am receiving financial assistance from a friend, family member, organization, etc. What do I do?
If you are receiving financial assistance:
- 1. Your donor can call us at 1-800-624-0166, and a member of our staff is happy to process a debit or credit card payment over the phone.
- 2. Your donor can submit a check payment to:
Music Contact International
118 S. Winooski Ave.
Burlington, VT 05401
*On each check, make sure the donor clearly notes your name and the ensemble name so our team can determine where to apply the funds.
Is insurance included? If not, how do I add insurance to my trip?
- In most cases, unless you have specific information from your group leader that says otherwise, travel insurance is not included in your package price. If you are interested in purchasing travel insurance, you can visit the “Insurance” tab, under "Useful Resources" from the menu of this website. This page has some helpful information about purchasing insurance for your trip. Please note that some coverage options are only available for the first few weeks from your first deposit.
I need to cancel my trip! What do I do?
- We’re sorry to see you go, but we understand that sometimes this happens. Please make sure to notify both your group leader and MCI of your cancellation with a written, dated, and signed notification.
- If you’d like to review your tour’s terms and conditions, please visit your Web Payment Site. Select the “Terms and Conditions” hyperlink at the bottom of every Web Payment Site page. You will also have a chance to review the terms and conditions before submitting each payment.
Can I get a refund of my payments?
- Since each cancellation circumstance is unique, the best way to determine whether any of the funds you’ve paid are refundable is to review your group’s terms and conditions. For your convenience, these terms are fully available online, and you have a chance to review and accept them each time you submit payment.
- If you’d like to review your tour’s terms and conditions, please visit your Web Payment Site. Select the “Terms and Conditions” hyperlink at the bottom of every Web Payment Site page.
- Please note that by accepting the Music Contact International Payment Terms & Conditions, you acknowledge that you have signed up for a group tour based on a number of people traveling together. Therefore, your tour price is dependent on a minimum number of people traveling. If the group drops below the minimum number defined, the tour price will go up. Also, if an individual cancellation from the tour brings the group below the designated minimum number, that individual will incur additional cancellation fees.
Unless otherwise notated in your group’s terms and conditions, our standard cancellation policies apply as follows:
Cancellations made:
more than 180 days before departure: a $100 cancellation fee will apply.
between 180 and 150 days before departure: a $100 cancellation fee plus 10% of the total tour cost are none refundable.
fewer than 150 days before departure: all payments are nonrefundable.
