Frequently Asked Questions about Huron Tour's Affordable Oktoberfest Package
Q: How much is the deposit?
A: $750 per person, refundable up until 120 days before departure (less a $50 administrative fee). We can take deposits over the phone, online, or by check.
Q: When is the latest I can make my deposit?
A: We don't have a deadline. We sell out at different times every year, but usually around April we are getting very tight. We like people to reserve earlier because it makes the process work better for everyone (air arrangements, answering questions etc.)
Q: How do I make a deposit?
A: 1) Call us 800-734-1192 or 2) online at our secure shopping cart or 3) request a brochure - we'll include a reservation form.
Q: I thought Oktoberfest was in October?
A: Nope! It begins in September, and extends into the first weekend of October. Read all about it on Wikipedia (opens in new window.)
Q: How big are your groups?
A: We max out at about 30 people.
Q: What if I don't have a group to travel with?
A: When we say "group tour" that means you'll be joining our group, and not that you have to be in a group to join us. We are happy to have you travel on your own, with a spouse, sibling, parent or friend, or with a group of friends. It all works, and we all have a great time.
Q: What's the single supplement?
A: Tour companies, ourselves included, price trips with the assumption that there are going to be two people sharing a room. If you are a single, the single supplement is the additional charge for not sharing a room.
Q: Can you find me a roommate?
A: Usually. The best thing is to make your deposit so we know you're serious...that helps us find you a roommate, or helps the other person looking for a roommate commit. Shoot us an email or give us a call to discuss further...
Q: Do you offer cancellation/trip protection insurance?
A: Yes. Policies have shifted to an age-based quote procedure. If you are interested in learning more or getting a quote, please follow this link (opens in a new window) which will allow you to price out a policy. Or give us a call and we'll do it for you.
Q: Do I need to speak German / Dutch / Irish :) / Italian? I've never been to Europe before...
A: No! It might be fun for you if you do, but most people in the countries we visit speak passable, and often, wonderful English. Restaurants offer menus in English etc. And, if you find yourself at a loss, there is always a friendly English speaking person nearby to help translate.
Q: What about flights? Why do you have air from the New York area? Why not [my city]?
A: We have great round-trip economy flights from United Airlines out of Newark, NJ offered at a discount. You can use those flights (either because you live near enough to Newark, or because you arrange connecting flights to meet our group flight). Or, you can book air from anywhere else, and meet us in Munich. Munich doesn't have a ton of direct flights to/from the US - it's really not that big of an airport. The New York area works well for our groups, but we always have people on alternate flights. We have a great link on our site to help you find flights - have a look at the discount Newark air schedule on our Affordable Oktoberfest page, then click one of the links to search for flights. The link will open in the Google Flight search engine, which these days is the best you can do for flight search.
Q: I want to do something before/after the Oktoberfest tour...
A: Great! We sell the trip as "land only" (without air included), so you can add whatever days you like to the beginning or end of the trip. If you want to stay in Munich please let us know and we can quote you a rate for our group hotel. We've had people drive in from neighboring countries, carry on to Amsterdam, Dublin, Prague, Italy etc. It can all be done!
Q: I've never done a group tour before, what's it like?
A: We use the economies of scale to save money for our tour participants, and we help you get the most from your trip. We also start planning these trips a year in advance! There's a good chance by the time you are reading this, hotels near the Oktoberfest are booked, or outrageously priced - we've had a contract in place since last Oktoberfest. As for the tour itself - we are a laid-back company, and our tours reflect this. We don't have a lot of rules, don't have seating charts - we are there to help you get the most from your experience. You are free to skip any portion of the trip you aren't interested in (after all, it is your vacation). The time we are together is for the planned events - for example the Oktoberfest grounds tour (with a guide telling you about Oktoberfest), then our tent reservation. We get you to and from the events and activities, and help make sure you have fun. You can make friends, or keep to yourself as much as you like. People on these trips are friendly, fun loving people and want everyone to have a good time. You are not herded around from place to place with a task-master dictating your every move.
Q: How old are the people on the tour? I don't want to be in a frat party/old person's tour.
A: We have all ages on the tour, and everyone has fun because of the mix of people we get. There is usually a nice spread from about 25 years old and up. Think of the mix you would get at a really fun wedding, but without any of your annoying relatives who knew you since you were "this tall." In the past couple of year we've had dentists, the owner of a fire engine sales company, recent university graduates, a Budweiser beer production facility repair manager, retirees, policemen, Cisco trainers, etc. all join us.
Q: How long is the walk from the Munich Hotel to Oktoberfest?
A: 1.8KM, or about 1/2 a mile, or 15 minutes slow walking. It's a safe, easy walk, that basically requires 1 right turn. You can also take the subway 1 stop (the entrance is right across the street from our hotel). Coming back, you can take a pedicab (bike cab), if you're tired, unsure of the route, or seeing double.
Q: Do the hotels have a bathroom in the room?
A: Yes, and stand-up showers that Americans like. Our hotels are nice, and selected for being safe, clean, well appointed, helpful, and in great locations.
In Munich we are in close proximity to Oktoberfest, and near the main train station so you can find the hotel easily on a map, and take the S-Bahn, U-Bahn, Tram or Train anywhere in Munich, or Europe for that matter. All from a block or so away.
The hotels we use have decent sized rooms for Europe, are very clean and tidy, and have wonderful friendly helpful staff. And, they have bathrooms in the rooms, as well as other modern conveniences like elevators, included breakfast, televisions, mini-bars, internet, etc.
Q: What Oktoberfest beer tent will I be in?
A: We don't know the tent for certain, or the time, until much closer to our September departures. And by the time we know, we're sold out - you will have fun no matter what tent we are in!
Q: How much money do I need (for shopping / food / beer ?)
A: Of course this is very subjective depending on your spending habits. But, Oktoberfest itself is cash-only. So - easy answer - between 300 and 500 Euros depending on how much you want to spend at Oktoberfest. Beer at Oktoberfest is in the 10 Euro range, and you do have to tip your waitperson while in a tent. Long answer - breakfast is included every day at the hotel. Lunch/dinner is included one other time in Munich. You need money for your other meals, and whatever shopping you plan to do, and tipping in the tents. The prices for things in Munich are pretty much the same as in the US (with the exception of mixed drinks, soup and desserts - those cost more for whatever reason) - so you just have to figure out the exchange rate and your spending habits. You can find restaurants in all price ranges. Taxis are very expensive, but you shouldn't need a taxi for anything as the subway/tram/trains are really easy. And you can walk most places. Credit cards are accepted most places, and ATMs are available as well. We sell currency at good exchange rates - you can get more details or a quote here.
Q: How does the food/beer work at Oktoberfest
A: Generally, you will receive a voucher for two liters of beer, and a voucher for 1/2 a rotisserie chicken. You usually can use the value of the voucher on other items. For instance, if you don't like beer [what!] you can have Schnapps or wine or soda. If you don't like chicken you can have veal, or noodles or potato salad. You have to pay the difference between the value of your voucher, and the cost of your substitute. If your substitute costs less than your voucher, you do not get the difference in change. And, you do have to pay a tip, and pay a service charge which is not the same as the tip. The total is about 2 euros on top of the listed price. Once you have consumed your two included liters of beer you have to pay for more. A liter of beer is usually about 9.5 euros. 1 liter of beer = 33.81 US fluid ounces = 2.8175 12 ounce beers = 3.6 euros per US sized beer = $5 per US beer. Approximately. So, more expensive than New Orleans where we live, but cheaper than New York or Los Angeles.
Q: What if I don't like beer and chicken?
A: The tents have full menus, and often full bars. They always have alternatives to beer and chicken.
Q: Why do I need your tour to go to Oktoberfest?
A: You don't, but we make it really easy, and don't charge that much. You can arrange flights on your own, find a hotel in Munich or a place to camp, and wait in line to get in to a beer tent. But, our company has been around since 1961, and we've been taking people to Oktoberfest for 16 years. We know what we're doing, and our experience and connections work in your favor for fun + quality, without wasting a lot of time, effort, and money.
Q: I heard it is possible/impossible to get into a beer tent
A: Both are true. It depends on how many people you are, and when you go. Weekends, the tents fill up early and stay full all day. The trick is, you must get a seat at a table to get service (you can't buy a beer if you aren't sitting at a table.) Getting in the tent is only part of the challenge - next you need to find a seat. You can do it, and it's fun trying. It's also fun going with us and knowing that you don't have to worry about it. And, you can't buy a beer on the grounds and walk around with it (it isn't available like that.) So - you are dependent on finding a spot in a tent.
Q: I just want to buy beer tent reservations from you
A: Sorry, we agree to the terms of the Munich Breweries' and don't resell beer tent reservations.
Q: What is the deadline for booking the tour?
A: We don't really have a deadline. We book until we are sold out, and we do sell out.
Q: How can I get currency?
A: Luckily enough, Huron Tours can sell you currency. Our secure website offers competitive rates and fast delivery. Click here to check rates (no personal information, banking info required - opens in a new window). You can also use your credit card in Europe (though the credit card companies have started charging a conversion fee), ATM in Europe, or get currency from your own bank.
Q: What are your tour policies in general?
A: Please see here
Q: I have a question you didn't cover?
A: I'm happy to answer any questions you have! Shoot us an email, or give us a call (504) 267-2057 or (800) 734-1192.
A: $750 per person, refundable up until 120 days before departure (less a $50 administrative fee). We can take deposits over the phone, online, or by check.
Q: When is the latest I can make my deposit?
A: We don't have a deadline. We sell out at different times every year, but usually around April we are getting very tight. We like people to reserve earlier because it makes the process work better for everyone (air arrangements, answering questions etc.)
Q: How do I make a deposit?
A: 1) Call us 800-734-1192 or 2) online at our secure shopping cart or 3) request a brochure - we'll include a reservation form.
Q: I thought Oktoberfest was in October?
A: Nope! It begins in September, and extends into the first weekend of October. Read all about it on Wikipedia (opens in new window.)
Q: How big are your groups?
A: We max out at about 30 people.
Q: What if I don't have a group to travel with?
A: When we say "group tour" that means you'll be joining our group, and not that you have to be in a group to join us. We are happy to have you travel on your own, with a spouse, sibling, parent or friend, or with a group of friends. It all works, and we all have a great time.
Q: What's the single supplement?
A: Tour companies, ourselves included, price trips with the assumption that there are going to be two people sharing a room. If you are a single, the single supplement is the additional charge for not sharing a room.
Q: Can you find me a roommate?
A: Usually. The best thing is to make your deposit so we know you're serious...that helps us find you a roommate, or helps the other person looking for a roommate commit. Shoot us an email or give us a call to discuss further...
Q: Do you offer cancellation/trip protection insurance?
A: Yes. Policies have shifted to an age-based quote procedure. If you are interested in learning more or getting a quote, please follow this link (opens in a new window) which will allow you to price out a policy. Or give us a call and we'll do it for you.
Q: Do I need to speak German / Dutch / Irish :) / Italian? I've never been to Europe before...
A: No! It might be fun for you if you do, but most people in the countries we visit speak passable, and often, wonderful English. Restaurants offer menus in English etc. And, if you find yourself at a loss, there is always a friendly English speaking person nearby to help translate.
Q: What about flights? Why do you have air from the New York area? Why not [my city]?
A: We have great round-trip economy flights from United Airlines out of Newark, NJ offered at a discount. You can use those flights (either because you live near enough to Newark, or because you arrange connecting flights to meet our group flight). Or, you can book air from anywhere else, and meet us in Munich. Munich doesn't have a ton of direct flights to/from the US - it's really not that big of an airport. The New York area works well for our groups, but we always have people on alternate flights. We have a great link on our site to help you find flights - have a look at the discount Newark air schedule on our Affordable Oktoberfest page, then click one of the links to search for flights. The link will open in the Google Flight search engine, which these days is the best you can do for flight search.
Q: I want to do something before/after the Oktoberfest tour...
A: Great! We sell the trip as "land only" (without air included), so you can add whatever days you like to the beginning or end of the trip. If you want to stay in Munich please let us know and we can quote you a rate for our group hotel. We've had people drive in from neighboring countries, carry on to Amsterdam, Dublin, Prague, Italy etc. It can all be done!
Q: I've never done a group tour before, what's it like?
A: We use the economies of scale to save money for our tour participants, and we help you get the most from your trip. We also start planning these trips a year in advance! There's a good chance by the time you are reading this, hotels near the Oktoberfest are booked, or outrageously priced - we've had a contract in place since last Oktoberfest. As for the tour itself - we are a laid-back company, and our tours reflect this. We don't have a lot of rules, don't have seating charts - we are there to help you get the most from your experience. You are free to skip any portion of the trip you aren't interested in (after all, it is your vacation). The time we are together is for the planned events - for example the Oktoberfest grounds tour (with a guide telling you about Oktoberfest), then our tent reservation. We get you to and from the events and activities, and help make sure you have fun. You can make friends, or keep to yourself as much as you like. People on these trips are friendly, fun loving people and want everyone to have a good time. You are not herded around from place to place with a task-master dictating your every move.
Q: How old are the people on the tour? I don't want to be in a frat party/old person's tour.
A: We have all ages on the tour, and everyone has fun because of the mix of people we get. There is usually a nice spread from about 25 years old and up. Think of the mix you would get at a really fun wedding, but without any of your annoying relatives who knew you since you were "this tall." In the past couple of year we've had dentists, the owner of a fire engine sales company, recent university graduates, a Budweiser beer production facility repair manager, retirees, policemen, Cisco trainers, etc. all join us.
Q: How long is the walk from the Munich Hotel to Oktoberfest?
A: 1.8KM, or about 1/2 a mile, or 15 minutes slow walking. It's a safe, easy walk, that basically requires 1 right turn. You can also take the subway 1 stop (the entrance is right across the street from our hotel). Coming back, you can take a pedicab (bike cab), if you're tired, unsure of the route, or seeing double.
Q: Do the hotels have a bathroom in the room?
A: Yes, and stand-up showers that Americans like. Our hotels are nice, and selected for being safe, clean, well appointed, helpful, and in great locations.
In Munich we are in close proximity to Oktoberfest, and near the main train station so you can find the hotel easily on a map, and take the S-Bahn, U-Bahn, Tram or Train anywhere in Munich, or Europe for that matter. All from a block or so away.
The hotels we use have decent sized rooms for Europe, are very clean and tidy, and have wonderful friendly helpful staff. And, they have bathrooms in the rooms, as well as other modern conveniences like elevators, included breakfast, televisions, mini-bars, internet, etc.
Q: What Oktoberfest beer tent will I be in?
A: We don't know the tent for certain, or the time, until much closer to our September departures. And by the time we know, we're sold out - you will have fun no matter what tent we are in!
Q: How much money do I need (for shopping / food / beer ?)
A: Of course this is very subjective depending on your spending habits. But, Oktoberfest itself is cash-only. So - easy answer - between 300 and 500 Euros depending on how much you want to spend at Oktoberfest. Beer at Oktoberfest is in the 10 Euro range, and you do have to tip your waitperson while in a tent. Long answer - breakfast is included every day at the hotel. Lunch/dinner is included one other time in Munich. You need money for your other meals, and whatever shopping you plan to do, and tipping in the tents. The prices for things in Munich are pretty much the same as in the US (with the exception of mixed drinks, soup and desserts - those cost more for whatever reason) - so you just have to figure out the exchange rate and your spending habits. You can find restaurants in all price ranges. Taxis are very expensive, but you shouldn't need a taxi for anything as the subway/tram/trains are really easy. And you can walk most places. Credit cards are accepted most places, and ATMs are available as well. We sell currency at good exchange rates - you can get more details or a quote here.
Q: How does the food/beer work at Oktoberfest
A: Generally, you will receive a voucher for two liters of beer, and a voucher for 1/2 a rotisserie chicken. You usually can use the value of the voucher on other items. For instance, if you don't like beer [what!] you can have Schnapps or wine or soda. If you don't like chicken you can have veal, or noodles or potato salad. You have to pay the difference between the value of your voucher, and the cost of your substitute. If your substitute costs less than your voucher, you do not get the difference in change. And, you do have to pay a tip, and pay a service charge which is not the same as the tip. The total is about 2 euros on top of the listed price. Once you have consumed your two included liters of beer you have to pay for more. A liter of beer is usually about 9.5 euros. 1 liter of beer = 33.81 US fluid ounces = 2.8175 12 ounce beers = 3.6 euros per US sized beer = $5 per US beer. Approximately. So, more expensive than New Orleans where we live, but cheaper than New York or Los Angeles.
Q: What if I don't like beer and chicken?
A: The tents have full menus, and often full bars. They always have alternatives to beer and chicken.
Q: Why do I need your tour to go to Oktoberfest?
A: You don't, but we make it really easy, and don't charge that much. You can arrange flights on your own, find a hotel in Munich or a place to camp, and wait in line to get in to a beer tent. But, our company has been around since 1961, and we've been taking people to Oktoberfest for 16 years. We know what we're doing, and our experience and connections work in your favor for fun + quality, without wasting a lot of time, effort, and money.
Q: I heard it is possible/impossible to get into a beer tent
A: Both are true. It depends on how many people you are, and when you go. Weekends, the tents fill up early and stay full all day. The trick is, you must get a seat at a table to get service (you can't buy a beer if you aren't sitting at a table.) Getting in the tent is only part of the challenge - next you need to find a seat. You can do it, and it's fun trying. It's also fun going with us and knowing that you don't have to worry about it. And, you can't buy a beer on the grounds and walk around with it (it isn't available like that.) So - you are dependent on finding a spot in a tent.
Q: I just want to buy beer tent reservations from you
A: Sorry, we agree to the terms of the Munich Breweries' and don't resell beer tent reservations.
Q: What is the deadline for booking the tour?
A: We don't really have a deadline. We book until we are sold out, and we do sell out.
Q: How can I get currency?
A: Luckily enough, Huron Tours can sell you currency. Our secure website offers competitive rates and fast delivery. Click here to check rates (no personal information, banking info required - opens in a new window). You can also use your credit card in Europe (though the credit card companies have started charging a conversion fee), ATM in Europe, or get currency from your own bank.
Q: What are your tour policies in general?
A: Please see here
Q: I have a question you didn't cover?
A: I'm happy to answer any questions you have! Shoot us an email, or give us a call (504) 267-2057 or (800) 734-1192.
Join Huron Tours and Travel in Munich for Oktoberfest in 2016
Huron Tours has been bringing groups to Munich for Oktoberfest for 15 years. Our travelers love being in Munich and attending Oktoberfest, as well as participating in the other Huron Tours exclusive events.
About Us | History | Testimonials | Photos | Our Tours | Tour Policies | Buy Foreign Currency | Useful Links | Contact Us | Privacy
Huron Tours & Travel, Inc. | 6221 S. Claiborne Ave, Suite 586 | New Orleans, Louisiana 70125 Ph/Fax: 800.734.1192 | Email: [email protected]
© 2012 - 2014 Huron Tours & Travel. All Rights Reserved.