
1. How long have you been operating tours?
NEI began in 1973 and has since provided thousands of active, inquisitive travelers with adventurous natural history, cultural and wildlife expeditions around the world. During the past 32 years, we have continually researched unique destinations to create expeditions that satisfy our travelers ' desires for safe, stimulating and educational adventures.
2. How do NEI expeditions differ from others?
Our expeditions are virtually unique in that they offer significant adventure variety (3 to 4 elective adventures); all adventures are low intensity; travelers can choose cultural or sightseeing excursions in place of most adventures; and we typically only use first class or deluxe accommodations. In addition, we usually offer our independent travelers a choice of educational lectures – something normally offered only to group travelers.
3. Who will lead my trip?
NEI employs the services of some of the most educated,competent, and affable naturalist guides available. On certain expeditions, you may have several local guides along the way, each of whom will provide you with personal insight into their area's natural and cultural history. If you have a particular trip focus, such as birding or botany, we will work with you to provide the established guide whose background, education, and training will best match your specific needs.
4. What memberships and affiliations does NEI maintain?
NEI is one of the founding members of the International Galapagos Tour Operators Association (IGTOA). We are also members of the African Wildlife Foundation, the International Ecotourism Society, the Better Business Bureau of Southeast Florida (impeccable record) and the International Airlines Travel Agent Network (IATAN). In addition, NEI makes contributions to the communities visited by our travelers.
5. What is the profile of your typical traveler?
Our expedition members come from all over the United States and Canada and have a wide variety of backgrounds. Most are well-educated, inquisitive, enthusiastic people who share common interests in such areas as soft adventure, natural history, cultural anthropology and geographical exploration. For NEI's land-based programs, over half of our participants are between the ages of 40 and 65. They travel as singles, couples, and families. Our adventure cruising travelers are generally slightly older. Above all, NEI travelers are explorers who are looking to immerse themselves in an environment altogether different from their own.
6. What kind of accommodations can I expect?
We believe in a philosophy of "adventure by day, comfort by night". We typically use only first class or deluxe hotels (or deluxe tented camps) with a local flavor. Our deluxe tented camps and jungle eco-lodges all have private bathrooms with hot water and flush toilettes.
7. What are the benefits of your independent travel programs?
NEI's independent travel programs offer the same benefits as group tours-private airport transfers and private tours with expert guides. The NEI independent traveler receives more personalized service than a member of a group. Moreover, the independent traveler benefits from guaranteed weekly departures during the season.
8. How will you help me prepare for my trip?
From recommended reading lists and destination travel guides to visa and health information, we deliver the most current pre-departure travel information possible, allowing you the opportunity to gain the most out of your travel experience.
9. How can I learn more about NEI or the specific trip I am interested in?
To learn more about our company, expeditions, or destinations, please e-mail us or call us toll free. Our knowledgeable and friendly staff is ready to answer your questions and to help you create your next adventure.
Call Toll Free 1-800-869-0639