Frequently Asked Questions
ABOUT WIIT
What makes WIIT different from other group tours?
We didn't build these trips from a search bar. Every studio, restaurant, temple, and hidden café on our itineraries comes from years of on-the-ground experience. We've lived it, returned again and again, and handpicked the best of the best to share with you. Each journey is built around an artist in residence, a local creative from the culinary, literary, visual, or performing arts, who welcomes you into their studio and their city. We keep groups small and rooms private, and every trip includes free time to explore on your own.
Who is the artist in residence, and when will I find out?
We match each artist in residence to the interests and passions of the women traveling, so we take time to get to know you before we confirm the artist who will be your creative compass. It's part of our commitment to making every step of your trip feel personal. Some trips have two artists, one in each city. We reveal them on the 30-day pre-trip group call, the final surprise before you go.
How big are the groups?
Groups are small, usually 6 to 12 women, with a lead WIIT host and an assistant host on every trip.
Who will be with us on the trip?
Every trip has a lead WIIT host and a dedicated assistant host, so you always have support. While the lead host guides the experience, the assistant host is there for you: helping with logistics, answering questions, and making sure no one gets left behind or feels lost.
What is the WIIT Circle?
The WIIT Circle is our virtual gathering space for curious travelers. Come with your culture questions, from etiquette and food to what to pack and how to greet local residents. Hear from guest speakers who call our destinations home, and meet fellow travelers before you ever set foot on the plane. You don't need to be booked on a trip to join.
What if I want to be an artist in residence or a host?
We'd love to hear from you! Reach out to us at info@wiitravel.com and tell us about yourself and your work.
Are WIIT trips for women only?
Yes. WIIT trips are proudly hosted by and for women, including trans women and anyone who identifies as a woman.
Is there an age requirement?
Our trips are designed especially for women 50 and over, and any woman 30 or older is welcome to book on their own.
I'm under 30. Can I still join?
Yes, if you travel with a WIIT traveler who is 50 or older and booked on the same departure. It's a lovely way for family members, friends, and loved ones across generations to travel together. All travelers must be at least 21 years old on the departure date.
I'm traveling on my first WIIT trip without knowing anyone. Is that okay?
Absolutely, as long as you're excited to travel the WIIT way: together. Ours is a group experience, so we explore, create, and learn side by side rather than each on our own. You'll still have time to unwind in your own private hotel room, plus the freedom to explore solo on your free days if you choose. Our pre-trip calls let you meet your cohort before takeoff, so you'll already know your group when you land.
How do I know the group will be a good fit?
Before you book, you’ll speak one-on-one with your trip’s host. You can ask anything, hear about the itinerary, and make sure the trip is right for you. We make every effort to bring together women with a range of interests and backgrounds while keeping the group’s energy in sync. Still, part of the magic of travel is taking a leap of faith, and some of the best friendships begin with strangers who said yes to the same adventure.
What if I don’t speak the language?
No problem. Our guides for temples, palaces, historical sites, and other main excursions speak English, so you won’t miss a moment. Your WIIT hosts are also there throughout the trip to help you navigate, and on our pre-trip calls we’re happy to share a few local phrases to help you feel at home.
How much physical activity is expected on the trips?
All trips include walking, stairs, and time exploring on foot. Each trip page lists its activity level so you know what to expect. Our days are paced with plenty of breaks, and you're always welcome to sit out an activity and rest. If you're unsure whether a trip is right for you, bring your questions to your host call before you book. See "Important Info" under each trip's page or "On The Trip" in our FAQ section for full details.
How do I reach WIIT?
Email info@wiitravel.com or call +1 919-999-8566. You can also book an interest call or join an upcoming WIIT Circle gathering.
BOOKING & PAYMENT
How do I book?
First book a a one-on-one consultation call with your trip's host to ask questions, hear about the itinerary, and make sure the trip feels right for you. When you're ready, complete the registration form and pay your deposit to reserve your place.
How much is the deposit?
For Spring 2027 trips, reserve your place with $750. Your deposit is applied to your trip balance, so it's not an extra fee, and it's fully refundable for 7 days after you pay it. After that, it becomes non-refundable (see Cancellations below).
Can I pay in installments?
Yes. After your deposit, you can pay the balance in full at any time or spread it out in monthly installments due on the 1st of each month. For example, if you book a $6,945 trip 10 months before your balance is due, you'd pay $750 today, then about $620 a month. Either way, your full balance is due 30 days before departure.
What happens if I miss an installment?
We'll email you a reminder. If a payment isn't received within 14 days of its due date, your booking will be canceled in accordance with our cancellation policy.
I want to book but the trip departs in 30 days or less!
We're excited to welcome you! The full trip cost is due when you book. Please also send your health and dietary form, flight details, and proof of travel insurance at that time.Your passport must already be valid for at least 6 months after the trip ends when you register. Here's how our passport deadlines work:
Booking 90 or more days before departure: If you're renewing, send us your new passport by 90 days before departure.
Booking 31 to 89 days before departure: If you're renewing, send us your new passport by 30 days before departure. We strongly recommend expedited processing.
Booking 30 days or less before departure: There's no time left to renew, so your passport must be valid when you book.
How do I pay?
All bookings and payments are handled securely through WeTravel, a payment platform built for travel companies. You can pay by major credit card or directly from your U.S. bank account (ACH). If you choose monthly installments, you can save your payment method so each installment is charged automatically. All prices are in U.S. dollars.
What do I need to send before the trip?
By the balance due date (30 days before departure), please send your health and dietary form, your flight details, and proof of travel insurance.
Are flights included, or do I book my own?
Because we welcome travelers from all over the world, departure cities and fares vary too widely for us to build airfare into the trip price. We'll share recommended arrival and departure times for you to book your own flight. Once you've booked, please send us your flight details by the balance due date. Some trips also include a short domestic flight that you'll book yourself, such as Seoul to Jeju. We'll help you choose the right flight.
Do I need a passport or visa?
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after the trip ends, and you'll upload a copy when you register. If yours needs renewing, tell your host during your booking call. You'll then need to send us a copy of your new passport at least 90 days before departure, or your booking will be canceled under our standard cancellation policy. If you book less than 90 days before departure and need to renew, send us your new passport no later than 30 days before departure. We strongly recommend paying for expedited processing so it arrives in time. For South Korea, many travelers need a K-ETA (electronic travel authorization) before departure. We'll walk you through requirements on the pre-trip calls, but it's your responsibility to get the right documents.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes. Your travel insurance policy must include a coverage limit of at least USD 200,000 for emergency medical care, evacuation, and repatriation. WIIT doesn't sell or advise on insurance, so please review what your policy covers directly with your provider. Proof is due 30 days before departure. We also strongly recommend trip cancellation coverage with "Cancel for Any Reason."
CANCELLATIONS, REFUNDS & TRANSFERS
What is your cancellation policy?
We get it. Life happens, and plans can change without warning. That's why we strongly recommend travel insurance that covers trip cancellation. Because group travel means commitments to hotels, guides, and artists months in advance, we can't offer full refunds outside our 7-day grace period. All cancellations must be emailed to info@wiitravel.com, and your cancellation date is the day we receive your email.
| When you cancel | What you get back | Example (for a $7,000 trip) |
|---|---|---|
| Within 7 days of paying your deposit | Full refund, including your deposit | You paid your $750 deposit and cancel 5 days later. You receive $750 back. |
| 120 or more days before departure | All payments except your deposit, which becomes a one-time credit toward another WIIT trip | You've paid $5,000 and cancel 150 days out. You receive $4,250 back, and your $750 deposit can go toward another WIIT trip. |
| 119 to 31 days before departure | A cancellation fee equal to half of your trip price applies, and your deposit counts toward it. We refund anything you've paid above that fee. | You've paid $5,000 and cancel 60 days out. The fee is $3,500, so you receive $1,500 back. |
| 30 days or less before departure | No refund | You've paid $7,000 and cancel 20 days out. You receive $0. |
*The 7-day grace period doesn't apply to bookings made 30 days or less before departure.**
Can I put my deposit toward another trip?
Yes, once, and we'll take care of it for you. If you cancel 120 or more days before departure, we'll automatically turn your deposit into a credit and email you the amount and expiration date. Use it toward any WIIT trip departing within a year of your original trip's departure date. Please note: if you cancel a trip secured with a transferred deposit, you will forfeit your deposit.
What if I change my mind after canceling?
You have 48 hours after sending your cancellation to take it back. If you cancel within 30 days of departure, you have 24 hours. After that, your place is released and you can't rejoin that trip.
Are there exceptions for illness or emergencies?
Unfortunately, no. Our cancellation policy applies to every cancellation, whatever the reason, because our commitments to hotels, guides, and artists are made well in advance. This is exactly why we strongly recommend travel insurance with "Cancel for Any Reason" coverage, so you're protected if the unexpected happens.
Can I switch to a different trip or date instead of canceling?
Yes, once, if you ask 120 or more days before your original departure. Transfers depend on space being available on the new trip. A $150 transfer fee applies, and the new trip must be within 12 months of your original booking date. If the new trip costs more, you pay the difference. If it costs less, the difference isn't refunded.
Can someone else take my place?
Yes, if you let us know more than 14 days before departure. They must meet our eligibility requirements and complete registration, and a $100 administrative fee applies.
Do I get money back for activities or days I skip?
No. Refunds aren't given for any part of the trip you miss or choose not to join.
What if WIIT cancels my trip?
Each trip needs a minimum number of travelers. If a trip doesn't reach it, we'll cancel before the balance due date (30 days before departure). If WIIT cancels before departure, you can choose a comparable trip of equal or greater value, a lower-priced trip with the difference refunded, or a full refund. We aren't responsible for flights or other costs you've paid to others.
What if the itinerary changes?
We may need to adjust activities because of weather, festival schedules, or local conditions, and we'll provide comparable replacements. If a major change (affecting at least 1 in 3 full days) is made more than 14 days before departure, you can accept it, switch to another trip, or cancel for a full refund of your trip payments.Full details are in our Terms & Conditions.
ON THE TRIP
How active are the trips?
How active are the trips? Every trip page lists an activity level:
| Level | Walking per day | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Leisurely | About 1 mile | Flat surfaces, about one flight of stairs, frequent rest |
| 2. Gentle | 1–2 miles | Mostly flat, gentle inclines, up to 60 minutes on foot at a time |
| 3. Steady | 2–3 miles | Some inclines and stairs, up to 2 hours on foot with breaks |
| 4. Spirited | 3–5 miles | Varied terrain and stairs, fuller days on foot |
What level are the 2027 Korea trips?
Each trip page lists its activity level. Expect stairs at temples and palaces, uneven sidewalks, cobbled lanes, and standing during festivals and performances.
I have mobility concerns. Can I still come?
Please reach out before booking, and we'll talk through the specific itinerary with you. Our hosts can't provide one-on-one help with walking, luggage, or boarding transportation, so travelers who need that support should bring a companion who also books the trip.
Do I need to share health information?
Yes. Before departure, you'll complete a confidential health and dietary form. We use it only to plan your trip and in case of emergency. We also recommend checking with your doctor about travel and vaccinations.
Can you accommodate dietary needs?
We'll do our best with allergies, vegetarian diets, and other needs. Let us know on your form. Some traditional meals have limited alternatives, so we'll be upfront about what's possible.
Will I have my own room?
Yes. Every price is for a private, single-occupancy room in a boutique hotel. If you're traveling with a friend and want to share, ask us about a shared-room rate.
What's included?
Inclusions vary by trip, so check each trip page. In general, your trip includes:
- Boutique accommodations (single occupancy)
- Private airport transfers on arrival and departure days
- Daily breakfast and most group lunches and dinners (excluding free days where listed)
- All scheduled activities, workshops, and entrance fees
- Artist studio visits and workshop materials
- Pre-trip 60-day and 30-day group calls
- Support from your lead host and assistant host throughout booking, lead-up, and the trip
What's not included?
All airfare, including international and domestic flights, which travelers book themselves; travel insurance, visa or travel authorization fees, meals and activities on free days, optional activities, alcohol when not listed in itinerary, tips, and personal purchases.
What happens on free days?
Free days are yours to explore. Your host will share curated recommendations, from hidden cafés and galleries to wellness experiences and day trips. Meals and activities on free days are at your own cost, and we reunite for a group dinner in the evening.
What are optional activities?
Some days include optional extras, such as a bike ride or paint-and-sip. You can join or skip them, and any extra cost is yours.
Are festivals guaranteed?
We time our trips around seasonal festivals, but event dates and programs are set by outside organizers and can change. If a festival moves, we'll plan a comparable experience.
What if I arrive late or my flight is delayed?
Let your host know right away. The group can't wait for late arrivals, but we'll help you rejoin. Any extra transportation costs are yours.
Will there be photos of the trip?
Yes. Our hosts take photos and video that we may share on our website and social media. If you'd rather not appear, just let us know in writing before your balance due date.
What if something isn’t right during the trip?
Tell your host right away so we can make it right on the spot. If you have a concern you’d like us to formally review after the trip, please email it to info@wiitravel.com within 30 days of your return. And we always welcome your thoughts on how we can make future trips even better.
