About I Travel With Miki

What is included in the trip price?

Our Diamond Tours motorcoach vacations include round-trip motorcoach transportation, hotel accommodations (including overnight stops along the way), most breakfasts and dinners, scheduled sightseeing, guided tours, attractions, and shows listed in the itinerary.

Lunches, some dinners, personal purchases, and gratuities are generally not included. Inclusions vary by trip. Please review your trip’s itinerary for complete details.

What is the deposit, and is it refundable?

A $125 per-person deposit is required at registration to hold your seat, and it is applied toward the cost of your trip.

The deposit is non-refundable. It is, however, transferable. If you let us know within two weeks, you may move it to any other trip we have open in the same calendar year.

Do you offer payment plans?

Yes. After your deposit you can pay in full, in whatever-size installments you like, or on your own schedule — as long as the full balance is paid by that trip's final payment due date, which is set by the tour operator well before departure. If you book far in advance that can mean months, even up to a year, to pay it off however works for you.

How do I reserve a trip?

The easiest and fastest way to reserve your trip is to register and pay online through our website.

Other ways to book:
- Call: 501-799-3820
- Email: bustrips@itravelwithmiki.com

We recommend paying your initial deposit online with a credit card to secure your reservation.

What if a trip is full, and how does the waitlist work?

When a trip is full, it moves to waitlist status. Joining the waitlist is free, so if a trip interests you, it is always better to be on the list than not.

To join the waitlist:
- Call: 501-799-3820
- Email: bustrips@itravelwithmiki.com

If a seat opens up, we’ll contact waitlisted travelers in the order they joined. If we can’t reach you and get a response in a timely manner, we’ll offer the seat to the next person on the list.

Once you accept, we’ll email you the next steps.

What payment methods do you accept?

You can pay online by credit card or bank transfer through TravelJoy, or by mailing a check.

• Credit card — 3% convenience fee. Card payments can be made in installments.
• Bank transfer — 1.5% convenience fee. The full balance must be paid at once, and your bank must be linked inside TravelJoy. We have no access to bank transfers and are unable to assist with them.
• Check — no fee.

Convenience fees go directly to the card company and the payment processor. I Travel With Miki does not receive any part of a convenience fee.

Paying online means paying the deposit plus the convenience fee. If you are unsure of the exact amount, call 501-799-3820 or email bustrips@itravelwithmiki.com and we will tell you.

What information is required to book?

For each traveler, we require:
- Full legal first and last name, exactly as shown on their government-issued photo ID
- A cell phone number
- One primary email address

The email address is the most important of the three. Confirmations, trip details, itineraries and all updates are sent by email only; nothing is sent by mail. If you do not check email regularly, please give us an address that you monitor.

Cell phone numbers allow us to contact you before departure, and to reach you quickly if anything arises during the trip.

For special requests or questions, please email bustrips@itravelwithmiki.com or call 501-799-3820.

Are tips included, and how do tips work?

Gratuities are optional, not included in the trip price, and greatly appreciated. Recommended amounts are:
- Motorcoach Driver: $3 per passenger, per day.
- Local Guide: $3 per passenger, per tour.
- I Travel With Miki Trip Leaders: $3 per passenger, per day, shared equally between the two leaders.

A tip envelope will be passed around on behalf of the trip leaders for those wishing to contribute.

Tips are never mandatory but are a thoughtful way to show appreciation for excellent service. Cash is preferred.

What time do we depart, and where do we meet?

Most motorcoach trips depart at approximately 8:00 AM. We recommend arriving at least one hour early. Your I Travel With Miki travel host will call you before departure to confirm your meeting location, departure time, and other important details.

Who leads the trip?

Each trip is hosted by two dedicated I Travel With Miki travel hosts—the heart of our business! While they are not tour guides, they help make your journey enjoyable by providing snacks, onboard entertainment, assistance, and problem-solving when needed. Their goal is to keep everyone organized, comfortable, and having fun along the way!

What time do trips return?

We typically plan to return between 3:00 and 5:00 PM. However, arrival times may vary due to traffic, weather, or unforeseen delays.

Do trips include overnight stops?

Most trips include one or more overnight hotel stays while traveling to and from the destination. The number of overnight stops depends on the distance and itinerary, while ensuring compliance with driver safety regulations.

How are bus seats assigned?

Bus seating is first-come, first-served based on your arrival time on departure day, not when you booked or paid.

Upon arrival, you will receive a boarding number and travel packet, including your name tag, lanyard, luggage tag, and itinerary.

Passengers board in numerical order and select their seats. Your chosen seat remains yours throughout the trip, including the return journey.

How many seats are included with my reservation?

Seating is based on your reservation:
- Single occupancy — two adjoining bus seats and a private hotel room
- Double occupancy — one bus seat per person, seated together
- Triple occupancy — one seat per person, with two travelers guaranteed to sit together

Our motorcoaches typically accommodate up to 52 passengers.

Can bus seats be reserved in advance?

No. Bus seating is first-come, first-served on departure day. The front two seats are reserved for our trip leaders, with an additional seat reserved when a leader-in-training is traveling.

We do not reserve specific seats based on motion sickness, height, or personal preferences. We encourage passengers with seating preferences to arrive early for the best selection.

Do you offer roommate matching?

Not at this time.

How do I pay by check?

Make checks payable to ITravel LLC and mail to PO Box 13993, Maumelle, AR 72113. Put the trip name and date (or the tour number) on the memo line, include a separate sheet with your roommate's name and contact information, and write the amount clearly — checks filled out incorrectly will be voided and not deposited.

How long does a check take to process?

Please allow 7–10 business days for your mailed check to arrive, be processed, and receive an email confirmation. Processing times may vary due to postal delays or our travel schedule.

Payments are recorded when received, not when mailed.

If you have not received confirmation after 10 business days, please email bustrips@itravelwithmiki.com rather than calling, and we’ll be happy to assist.

Does payment method affect securing my seat?

Yes. Reservations are confirmed on a first-come, first-served basis as payments are received.

The most reliable way to secure your seat is to pay the initial $125 deposit by credit card. Credit card payments process immediately, while mailed checks require additional time for delivery and processing.

Seats cannot be guaranteed until your deposit is received and processed.

Can I still register after the final payment due date?

Yes! If seats are available, you may still register up to three weeks before departure. Payment in full is required at registration.

What happens if my roommate does not make their final payment?

If your roommate fails to pay by the deadline, their reservation may be canceled and their deposit forfeited. You may find another roommate or pay the single-occupancy difference to keep your reservation. I Travel With Miki cannot guarantee a replacement roommate or cover additional costs.

What is the luggage allowance?

Each passenger may bring one large suitcase and one small carry-on or backpack. Purses are also welcome.

Carry-on items must fit in the smaller overhead compartments on the motorcoach.

Where should I keep my medications?

All medications, including daily prescriptions and motion sickness medication, should be kept with you on the motorcoach in your personal bag. Do not pack medications in luggage stored beneath the bus, as it is inaccessible during travel.

Can I bring a CPAP machine?

Yes, CPAP machines are permitted. Please securely pack your CPAP machine and any necessary supplies. We recommend keeping your machine with you on the motorcoach to prevent damage and ensure it is readily accessible. If you prefer to store it in the luggage compartment, please use a protective carrying case.

What should I bring on board?

For your comfort during motorcoach travel, we recommend bringing:
- Headphones or earbuds and earplugs
- A small blanket and seat cushion
- A travel cup holder and spill-proof drink container
- Personal snacks
- A tablet, e-reader, book, or magazine
- Movies or shows downloaded before departure, as Wi-Fi is not guaranteed

Movies may also be shown on the motorcoach.

For additional suggestions, see Miki’s Packing List.

Is there a restroom on the motorcoach?

Yes. Motorcoaches have an onboard restroom located at the rear of the bus. However, bus company safety guidelines recommend emergency use only.

For passenger safety, walking through a moving motorcoach is discouraged due to the risk of falls.

Motorcoach restrooms have limited holding capacity and must be emptied at designated disposal facilities. To minimize odors and maintain a comfortable environment for everyone, we encourage passengers to use the restrooms during scheduled comfort stops.

Comfort stops are generally made every 2–2½ hours. If you have special restroom needs, please notify your trip leaders before departure.

How often does the motorcoach stop?

We make comfort stops approximately every two hours, allowing passengers time to stretch and use the restroom.

What are the motorcoaches like?

Diamond Tours and White Star Tours arrange motorcoach transportation for our trips. Motorcoaches generally feature climate control, onboard restrooms, and overhead storage. Additional amenities may vary.

I Travel With Miki does not select or assign motorcoaches, as transportation arrangements are handled by our tour providers.

Is Wi-Fi available on board?

Some motorcoaches offer Wi-Fi; however, bus companies advise that service is not guaranteed. Connectivity may be interrupted while traveling, and speeds may be slower when multiple passengers are connected.

We recommend downloading movies, shows, music, or other entertainment before departure so you can enjoy them without relying on Wi-Fi.

Do I need identification or a passport?

Some attractions or venues may require a valid photo ID, so we recommend carrying one on all trips. A valid passport book is required for all international trips. Specific travel requirements will be emailed before departure.

Are pets permitted?

No, pets are not permitted on the bus.

When will I receive my itinerary?

Your full itinerary and important travel information will be emailed approximately three weeks before departure. A printed itinerary packet and luggage tags will be provided when boarding.

What is I Travel With Miki?

I Travel With Miki makes travel fun and affordable. From our popular group bus trips to cruises and international getaways, we take care of the planning so you can enjoy the ride. You'll get great value, friendly trip leaders, and a group that feels like family. We're always adding new adventures, so come see where we're headed next!

Why choose I Travel With Miki?

I Travel With Miki makes travel fun and affordable. We're the host that makes every trip personal: trained trip leaders, snacks and entertainment along the way, and a group that feels like family, whether you're a solo traveler, a couple, or a bunch of friends.

We handle the details so you don't have to. Our partner operators take care of the hotels, buses, and routes, and we take care of you, the part that turns a trip into a memory.

Maybe you've taken a bus trip before, maybe you're a seasoned pro. But we're willing to bet you've never traveled quite like this. We don't just run bus trips, we set the trend for them. A lot of what you'll see around the industry started with us. But being first isn't really the point. It's that five years in, nobody does it quite like we do. From our popular group bus trips to cruises and international getaways, we're always adding new adventures.

Because with us, you come as strangers and leave as friends, and join our family.

When are next year's trips announced?

New trips are typically posted by midsummer. Check our website for updates or email bustrips@itravelwithmiki.com.

What are your business hours?

Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM. We are closed on weekends. Responses outside business hours are not guaranteed.

Do you have a physical office?

I Travel With Miki runs entirely online, which keeps our overhead low and our trips affordable. We do not have a walk-in office and we are not set up for in-person appointments.

Mail payments to:
- ITravel LLC
- PO Box 13993
- Maumelle, AR 72113

Please never mail a payment to a personal address.

Is there an age requirement?

We believe you’re never too old to travel, and it’s never too early to start! Most of our travelers are 50 and older, but we welcome guests ages 14 and up. Travelers ages 14–17 must be accompanied by a responsible adult. At I Travel With Miki, our goal is to create wonderful memories and friendships at every age!

How much walking is required?

Walking requirements vary by destination, but guests should be comfortable walking, climbing bus steps, and navigating areas with limited accessibility.

Can I bring a cane, walker, or wheelchair?

Yes! Canes, walkers, and collapsible wheelchairs weighing under 45 pounds are permitted. Guests requiring mobility assistance must travel with a companion who can provide the necessary support. Our I Travel With Miki hosts cannot serve as personal assistants, caregivers, or provide individual mobility assistance throughout the trip.

May I explore independently during free time?

Absolutely! Guests are welcome to explore independently during free time or choose not to participate in scheduled group activities. However, all travelers must return to the motorcoach by the designated departure time. Any additional activities, admission tickets, or transportation are at the traveler’s expense. Missed meals and scheduled activities are nonrefundable and cannot be rescheduled.

Are smoking accommodations available?

No. All accommodations are nonsmoking.

Do trip leaders discuss politics?

No. I Travel With Miki maintains a politically neutral environment. Our trip leaders focus on providing a welcoming, respectful, and enjoyable travel experience for everyone.

How do I cancel my reservation?

All cancellation requests must be emailed to bustrips@itravelwithmiki.com. Please include your name and trip details. Cancellations cannot be processed by phone or text.

What is the cancellation policy?

Cancellations made at least 14 business days before departure are eligible for a refund, excluding the nonrefundable deposit. Cancellations within 14 business days of departure are nonrefundable. We strongly recommend travel insurance.

Is the deposit refundable?

No. All deposits are nonrefundable, regardless of when the cancellation occurs.

Can I transfer my deposit to a different trip?

Yes. Deposits may be transferred to another available trip. You must select your new trip within one week of requesting the transfer. Deposits not transferred within that period will be forfeited.

Can I transfer my reservation to another person?

Yes. Reservations may be transferred to another traveler without additional payment. Name changes are permitted until room assignments and travel arrangements are finalized with the tour operator. After that point, changes may no longer be possible.

What if a trip is canceled or changed?

If a tour operator cancels a trip, we will coordinate with them to determine available options, including refunds or transfers to another trip.

Can a trip be canceled due to low enrollment?

Yes. Trips generally require a minimum of 30 to 32 travelers. If enrollment requirements are not met, the trip may be canceled and all money is refunded.

What if I pay for a trip that is already full?

If your payment is received after a trip reaches capacity, you will receive a full refund. Unprocessed checks will be voided, and credit card payments will be refunded.

Is travel insurance included in the trip price?

No. Travel insurance is entirely optional and sold separately, directly through a third party. I Travel With Miki is not a licensed insurance seller.

Many of our travelers choose Travel Confident, an affordable travel protection option offered through Diamond Tours. It provides added peace of mind at a reasonable cost.

What does Travel Confident cover?

Highlights: trip cancellation reimbursement up to the full non-refundable trip cost, trip interruption up to 150% of trip cost, baggage coverage up to $1,000, emergency medical and dental up to $5,000, and medical evacuation or repatriation up to $20,000, including transportation home in a medical emergency. Full terms, limitations and exclusions are posted at travelconfident.com.

I Travel With Miki does not sell insurance.

How do I purchase travel insurance?

Visit travelconfident.com directly to review the plan and sign up. This is separate from, and in addition to, your trip payment. Coverage is underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company and administered by Travel Insured International — questions about the plan itself go to them, not to us.

When should I purchase travel insurance?

As soon as possible after booking. Some benefits, including pre-existing medical condition waivers, require purchase within a specific period after your initial trip payment. Deadlines vary by policy.

Which provider covers my trip?

It depends on who's running it. Diamond Tours motorcoach trips use Travel Confident. White Star Tours trips use AON / NTA Travel Protection. International trips and cruises use Allianz. All three are listed with phone numbers on our Travel Insurance page.

How do I cancel or change my travel insurance policy?

Contact your insurance provider directly using the information provided in your policy. Canceling your trip with I Travel With Miki does not automatically cancel your insurance. All policy changes, cancellations, and refund requests must be handled directly with your insurance provider. I Travel With Miki does not manage insurance policies or determine insurance refunds.

Travel Insurance Is Not Sold or Handled by I Travel With Miki

I Travel With Miki does not sell or handle travel insurance. All quotes, coverage details and purchases are made directly with the insurance provider, so you can choose the plan that best fits your needs. Changes and cancellations to a policy are handled by the insurance provider as well, so please contact them directly using the phone number or website listed on their plan.

For coverage details, pricing, changes or cancellations, please contact the insurance provider directly using the phone number listed on our Travel Insurance page.

Departure Locations Are Subject to Change

Our motorcoach trips depart from Central Arkansas. Departure locations are subject to change due to parking availability, venue restrictions, conflicting events, or other circumstances beyond our control.

Occasionally, the departure location listed in your brochure may need to be changed. If this occurs, all passengers will be notified as soon as possible with the updated departure details. We recommend confirming your departure location before making nonrefundable hotel arrangements.

Trip Leaders Are Subject to Change

Due to unforeseen circumstances, assigned trip leaders may change, even up to the day of departure. While our standard practice is to provide two I Travel With Miki trip leaders, certain circumstances may require us to travel with only one.

All our trip leaders are friendly, energetic, and dedicated to making travel enjoyable for our senior travelers.

Tour Operator Responsibilities

Diamond Tours and White Star Tours are responsible for arranging and managing transportation, motorcoaches, drivers, hotels, attractions, and tour itineraries. These operators may make changes due to availability, scheduling, weather, safety, or other circumstances beyond our control.

I Travel With Miki does not control these arrangements but works closely with our tour operators to help ensure a positive travel experience. We will communicate any changes to our travelers as soon as information becomes available.

Electronic Payment Fees

Electronic payments are subject to processing fees of 3% for credit cards and 1.5% for bank transfers (ACH). These fees are charged by the payment processor, not I Travel With Miki, and our company does not receive any portion of these fees.

To avoid processing fees, passengers may pay by check at no additional charge. Please allow sufficient time for mailed checks to arrive and be processed before payment deadlines.

Payment plan deadlines

You can pay in installments up until three weeks before the trip. After that point it's full payment only — so the earlier you book, the more flexibility you have.