Travel Documents

• Travel documents: All Belgian nationals* (children and babies included) must be in possession of an international e-passport (biometric) containing min. 2 blank pages, valid at day of entry and during the entire stay. Connections recommends to let common sense prevail and to build in some slack in terms of validity. Often unforeseen circumstances (weather factors, volcanoes, and threats all kinds) are the cause of a mandatory postponed return date. A credit card is required upon check-in at the hotels and also when renting a car.Please keep this in mind. We strongly recommend you to print out the Esta- or Eta permit and to have it on you while you travel to avoid problems.

• All passengers who travel to and /or via the U.S. must apply for an electronic travel authorization at least 72 hours prior to departure. The ESTA ($ 40) procedure must be requested via the official website link https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov and paid by a personal credit card only.

• Travellers who have visited Cuba since 12 January 2021 or who wish to travel to Cuba prior to a visit to the United States are not eligible for ESTA and must apply for a US visa at a US Consulate before travelling to the US.

• Travellers with a non-Belgian nationality and / or travellers travelling on a foreign passport are invited to spontaneously report this matter to the Connections travel consultant and shall contact their respective embassy (s) or Consulate (ate) to obtain the latest updates concerning all current travel requirements and documents. They must apply for an electronic travel authorization at least 72 hours prior to departure via the official website link https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov and pay by a personal credit card only.

Insurances

Have a safe and carefree trip: travel fully insured with our Protections travel insurance! Our Protections insurance policies offer various formulas in order to offer you the widest possible cover (with even a fly-on-time, natural catastrophes and epidemics) for both single journeys or for the entire year. We guarantee you the best protection at the best price.

Tailored travel

The tours in our brochures are just a few examples of travel itineraries possible. Our trips can be tailored to suit your specific needs. If you want to book a specific destination or combine it with a mini-tour then we will gladly make you a tailor-made offer. For a personalised day-by-day program please contact our destination experts.

Would you like to travel in a group; with your entire family, friends or colleagues? (min. 10 people required). Put our know-how to the test and send us your details and wishes. We will gladly turn the blueprints of your trip into a detailed quote and a lasting memory for you to cherish. Contact our Connections’ Group Service by e-mail at groups@connections.be or by telephone on +32 (0)2/550 01 65. We would love to hear from you.

Health

No mandatory vaccinations. To verify the latest updates on health requirements, please surf to https://www.itg.be.
Medical interventions and costs can soon become outrageous in the U.S.A. Reflect before leaving and subscribe a decent travel insurance. Our protections All-in Premier insurance was especially designed specifically for travel to the U.S.A. and provides ample cover for all major calamities (fly-on-time and natural disasters included)!

Time zones

The United States span 4 time zones:

• Eastern (- 6 h)

• Central (- 7 h)

• Mountain (- 8 h)

• Pacific (- 9 h)

Payments methods

A personal credit card is required upon check-in at the hotels and also when renting a car. The most convenient method of payment is by credit card but cash euros and dollars in small amount come in handy. Inform yourself timely, as from January 15, 2015 your Visa and/or MasterCard credit card (and possibly other types of credit cards) has automatically been set to "not for use in the US, for US car rental agencies and during cruises under the American flag".

You must then apply for a release of your credit card. This may be done prior to your arrival in the U.S. (in your bank branch or via the telephone number listed on the back of your credit card or by means of a special form available for PC banking) as well as after arrival in the US (through a withdrawal at an ATM. Please note, in this case there will be a transaction fee charged to your account). The same applies to the Maestro function in your bank card.

Please request a price quote for a personalized quotation.
The mentioned as from price is per person sharing based on double occupancy.

What's included?

• 12 nights accommodation in standard hotels

• 2-hrs e-bike Tour Miami Beach

• Your digital roadbook (day-by-day itinerary)

Not included

Your international flights, optional excursions, tipping, meals & beverages and personal expenses.

Natural Wonders of the Sunshine State

The Florida Eco Explorer tour takes you to the most beautiful natural areas the Sunshine State has to offer. In the Everglades, North America’s largest subtropical wilderness, you’ll discover a unique ecosystem home to alligators, manatees and hundreds of bird species. During your stay in the Florida Keys, snorkel in crystal-clear waters among colorful coral reefs. The vast mangrove forests around Marco Island are perfect for kayaking while observing local wildlife in its natural habitat. This tour combines nature immersion with comfort and adventure.

Miami as your base

Your journey begins and ends in vibrant Miami, the perfect base for your Florida adventure. Before heading into nature, enjoy the city’s iconic Art Deco architecture in South Beach and the Cuban influences of Little Havana. After returning from your eco-adventure, unwind in trendy neighborhoods like Wynwood with its colorful murals or Coconut Grove with its bohemian vibe. The mix of urban energy and natural discovery makes this tour truly special.

Exploring Florida’s West Coast

On your Eco Explorer tour, you’ll also discover Florida’s stunning west coast, famous for its white sandy beaches and laid-back atmosphere. Naples offers a mix of luxury and nature, while St. Petersburg and Clearwater welcome you with beaches often ranked among the best in America. Spot dolphins from the shore or during a boat trip on the Gulf of Mexico. The sunsets at Pier 60 in Clearwater are legendary, providing the perfect backdrop for unforgettable holiday photos.

Discovering the Florida Keys

The Florida Keys are a highlight of this eco-tour. This chain of tropical islands stretches for 113 miles, linked by the spectacular Overseas Highway. Each Key has its own character: Key Largo is known for snorkeling and marine life, Islamorada is the world’s sport fishing capital, Marathon is home to a fascinating sea turtle hospital, and Key West charms with its bohemian atmosphere, colorful wooden houses and lively Duval Street. The Keys offer not just natural beauty but also a laid-back island lifestyle that instantly puts you in holiday mode.

Why choose the Florida Eco Explorer tour

The Florida Eco Explorer tour offers a unique blend of nature and comfort unlike any other Florida holiday. Instead of focusing solely on theme parks or beach resorts, this journey immerses you in the Sunshine State’s surprisingly diverse ecosystems. Discover rare wildlife, explore secluded beaches and enjoy unspoiled landscapes at a relaxed pace. The carefully designed itinerary ensures the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation, with comfortable accommodations awaiting you each evening.

Best time to travel

Winter (November to April) is the best time to visit, with pleasant temperatures of 20–25°C, perfect for exploring nature without the extreme summer heat and humidity. Spring (March–May) is especially good for wildlife spotting, when many species are most active. The waters around the Keys remain warm year-round for snorkeling, but it’s best to avoid hurricane season (June–November) for a worry-free trip.

Sustainable tourism in Florida

The Florida Eco Explorer tour is designed with sustainability in mind. Visits to protected areas such as the Everglades contribute directly to conservation. Recommended activities – kayaking through mangrove forests, snorkeling at protected reefs – have minimal environmental impact. Many selected accommodations work with local suppliers and adopt eco-friendly practices. By choosing this tour, you actively support initiatives that preserve Florida’s unique ecosystems for future generations while contributing to the local economy.