Tour starts on every single SUNDAY between March 23 and October 19
Tour code: C-70122
Tour starts on every single SUNDAY between March 23 and October 19
Tour code: C-70122
- accommodation in **** hotels
- 11 breakfasts, 1 lunch and 6 dinners
- modern and air-conditioned bus
- multi-lingual tour escort
- sightseeing tours with local guides in Santiago, Porto and Lisbon
- tickets to Santiago's Cathedral
- tickets to SJeronimos Monastery in Lisbon
- visit to a wine cellar with tasting of Porto wine
- travel insurance
- free Wi- Fi on board
- tips
Embark on an unforgettable Northern Spain tour with Iberica Travel, where breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich cultural experiences come together to create an adventure of a lifetime. The northern region of Spain is a treasure trove of captivating sights, combining natural beauty with architectural marvels and culinary delights.
Your journey begins in the charming city of San Sebastian, famed for its golden sandy beaches and culinary excellence. Explore Bilbao, home to the iconic Guggenheim Museum, where cutting-edge art meets stunning architecture. Step back in time as you wander through the cobblestone streets of Santillana de Mar, a perfectly preserved medieval village, and embrace the serenity of Covadonga, nestled amidst lush mountain scenery. Nature lovers will be awed by the dramatic beauty of the Picos de Europa National Park, a jewel of the Spanish landscape.
Continuing along the coast, we arrive in Galicia, the northwest region of Spain known for its rugged coastline, verdant hills, and majestic mountains. This enchanting area is dotted with picturesque towns and villages that exude charm. Galicia is also a paradise for food lovers, celebrated for its fresh seafood, including the famous pulpo a feira (Galician-style octopus) and succulent shellfish. The region’s unspoiled beauty and culinary richness make it an unforgettable highlight of the tour.
Our journey then transitions south into Portugal, a land of fascinating history and stunning landscapes. Explore Oporto (Porto), a historic fishing town turned vibrant city, known for its wine cellars and riverside charm. Delve into the academic heritage of Coimbra, home to one of Europe’s oldest universities. Visit Fatima, one of the most significant pilgrimage sites in the world, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of Lisbon, Portugal’s dynamic and elegant capital. Along the way, you’ll also discover smaller gems like Viana do Castelo, with its maritime charm, and Braga, renowned for its religious and historical landmarks.
To enhance your experience, the tour begins and ends with visits to two of Spain’s cultural treasures. In Zaragoza, marvel at its stunning architecture, including the iconic Basilica del Pilar. Conclude your journey in Caceres, a UNESCO World Heritage city whose ancient walls and timeless charm provide the perfect finale to your adventure.
This Northern Spain and Portugal tour is meticulously designed to showcase the diverse landscapes, captivating cities, and rich heritage of the Iberian Peninsula. From the dramatic coastlines of Galicia to the historic allure of Portugal, every moment is crafted to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. Let Iberica Travel guide you through this remarkable journey, where culture, cuisine, and natural beauty come together in perfect harmony.
Please click here to see the route on a map.
Day 1: Madrid - Zaragoza - San Sebastián (575 km / 357 miles)
Begin your journey in Madrid with an 8 a.m. departure toward Zaragoza, Spain's fifth-largest city and the capital of the Aragón region. Nestled south of the Pyrenees, Zaragoza is a city of fascinating contrasts, where Roman ruins, Islamic architecture, and Baroque splendor coexist harmoniously. Enjoy free time to explore the city’s highlights, including the Basilica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar and the Puente de Piedra (Stone Bridge).
The Basilica, a stunning example of Baroque architecture, is said to be the site where Santiago (Saint James) witnessed the Virgin Mary ascending a marble pillar. Inside, marvel at its intricate interiors and, for breathtaking views of the city, take the elevator to the top. Nearby, the Puente de Piedra, the oldest bridge across the Ebro River, offers iconic views of Zaragoza with the Basilica as a dramatic backdrop.
After soaking in Zaragoza’s charm, continue to San Sebastián, arriving in the early evening for dinner and accommodation.
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Day 2: San Sebastián - Bilbao - Santander (205 km / 127 miles)
Start your day with breakfast before traveling to Bilbao, a city celebrated for its cutting-edge architecture and avant-garde spirit. Stop to admire the Guggenheim Museum, Frank Gehry’s architectural masterpiece that resembles a shimmering titanium ship. Take photos of the museum’s striking exterior, surrounded by famous artworks like Louise Bourgeois’ Maman, Jeff Koons’ Puppy, and Anish Kapoor’s Tall Tree and the Eye.
Next, head west along the Atlantic coast to Santander, the capital of Cantabria. Santander is a delightful mix of history, culture, and seaside relaxation. Spend your free time exploring the Palacio de la Magdalena, a royal summer retreat set on the scenic Magdalena Peninsula, or take a stroll along the city’s beaches, such as Playa de los Bikinis or Playa de la Magdalena. Don’t miss the impressive Santander Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic and Romanesque architecture.
Enjoy dinner and overnight accommodation in Santander.
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Day 3: Santander - Santillana del Mar - Covadonga - Oviedo (320 km / 199 miles)
After breakfast, journey through the stunning Picos de Europa National Park, where soaring peaks, verdant valleys, and serene lakes create a dramatic natural landscape. The first stop is Santillana del Mar, often called one of Spain’s most beautiful villages. Wander its cobblestone streets, admire medieval stone and timber houses, and visit the Collegiate Church of Santa María, which lies at the heart of the village.
Continue to Covadonga, located on the western edge of the Picos de Europa. Visit the Sanctuary of Covadonga, nestled in a mountain grotto, and see the image of the Virgin of Covadonga. This historic site holds deep significance as the location of the Battle of Covadonga, marking the start of the Spanish Reconquista.
Arrive in Oviedo in the evening, where you’ll enjoy dinner and overnight accommodation.
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Day 4: Oviedo - A Coruña (295 km)
Following breakfast, travel to A Coruña, a vibrant coastal city in Galicia. Known for its rich history, culture, and seafood, A Coruña offers something for everyone. Upon arrival, take a panoramic tour of the city, including the Torre de Hércules, the world’s oldest working lighthouse and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stroll past the city’s galerías, charming glass-enclosed balconies that line many buildings, and visit the Castillo de San Antón, a historic fortress that now houses the Archaeological and History Museum.
Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay in A Coruña.
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Day 5: A Coruña - Santiago de Compostela (75 km / 47 miles)
After breakfast, head to Santiago de Compostela, one of Spain’s most iconic cities and the endpoint of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage. A guided tour will take you through the city’s historic center, showcasing its medieval streets and grand squares. Visit the majestic Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, a blend of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque architecture that houses the relics of Saint James.
Spend the afternoon exploring the charming historical center at your own pace. Wander through hidden squares like Plaza de Cervantes, relax in Alameda Park with its beautiful views of the cathedral, or savor traditional Galician cuisine in a local café. Dinner and an overnight stay in Santiago de Compostela await.
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Day 6: Santiago de Compostela - Rías Baixas - Vigo (90 km / 56 miles)
After breakfast, travel through the enchanting Rías Baixas region, famous for its coastal beauty, cliffs, islands, and fishing villages. Stop at O Grove on the Isla de Toja, known for its scallop-shell-decorated chapel and picturesque beaches. Explore the area’s serene landscapes before continuing to Vigo.
In Vigo, stroll through the Old Town, where historic fishermen’s houses sit alongside elegant townhouses. The charming streets are lined with traditional craft shops, and the atmosphere is distinctly Galician. Dinner and overnight accommodation in Vigo.
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Day 7: Vigo - Viana do Castelo - Braga - Porto (220 km / 137 miles)
After breakfast, cross the border into Portugal and arrive at Viana do Castelo, a picturesque town where Baroque, Renaissance, and Art Nouveau styles coexist. Stroll through the cobbled streets and browse shops offering Portugal’s famous gold filigree jewelry.
Continue to Braga, a city known for its spiritual and historical significance. Visit landmarks such as the Bom Jesus do Monte sanctuary and enjoy the vibrant energy of this youthful yet historic city.
End the day in Porto, with dinner and overnight accommodation.
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Day 8: Porto
After breakfast, we set out to explore Porto, a city rich in charm, history, and unique character. Porto’s iconic Ribeira District, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, invites you to stroll its colorful streets, soak in the lively atmosphere, and enjoy views of the Douro River.
Visit the impressive Porto Cathedral, offering sweeping city views, and the Palácio da Bolsa, a neoclassical gem and national monument. Admire the intricate Baroque interiors of the Igreja de Santa Clara and the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge, which connects Porto to Vila Nova de Gaia, the heart of port wine production.
Our tour includes a visit to a traditional wine cellar to learn about the port wine-making process and enjoy a tasting. The afternoon is yours to explore, with highlights like the stunning Livraria Lello bookstore, Porto’s renowned azulejo tilework, and its vibrant culinary scene. Conclude the day with dinner and a relaxing night in Porto.
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Day 9: Porto - Coimbra (120 km / 75 miles)
After breakfast, travel to Coimbra, a historic city once Portugal’s capital. Known for its prestigious university, a UNESCO World Heritage Site founded in 1290, Coimbra exudes charm and cultural significance. Explore highlights like the stunning Joanina Library and admire the traditional student uniforms, said to have inspired J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series. Enjoy lunch and a relaxed evening soaking in the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
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Day 10: Coimbra - Fátima - Lisbon (222 km / 138 miles)
After breakfast, journey to Fátima, one of the world’s most revered Catholic pilgrimage sites. The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima attracts millions of visitors each year, drawn by its profound spiritual significance.
Learn about the Virgin Mary’s apparitions to three shepherd children in 1917, a series of events that culminated in the "Miracle of the Sun," witnessed by thousands. Explore the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, a Neo-Baroque masterpiece housing the tombs of the three children. Across the square, the modern Basilica of the Holy Trinity accommodates vast crowds and is one of the largest Catholic churches in the world.
After some reflective free time in Fátima, continue to Lisbon for an evening at leisure and overnight accommodation.
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Day 11: Lisbon
Following breakfast, enjoy a guided tour of Lisbon, a city where history, culture, and vibrant energy converge. Lisbon’s charm lies in its blend of old-world traditions and cosmopolitan flair, set against the backdrop of the Tagus River.
Discover landmarks like the Padrão dos Descobrimentos (Monument of the Discoveries), a 50-meter sculpture commemorating Portugal’s Age of Discovery, featuring figures such as Henry the Navigator and Vasco da Gama.
Visit Belem Tower, a 16th-century fortress and ceremonial gateway to the city. This UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases intricate details and Moorish-inspired architecture.
Explore the Jerónimos Monastery, another UNESCO site and a symbol of Portugal’s maritime heritage. Its ornate cloisters and grand façades are a testament to the country’s wealth during the Age of Exploration.
Wander through the Alfama Quarter, Lisbon’s oldest district, known for its maze of narrow streets, traditional Fado music, and stunning views.
Take the evening to enjoy Lisbon at your own pace. Indulge in the famous pastel de nata, the city’s iconic custard tart, from one of its historic bakeries.
Spend a second night in Lisbon.
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Day 12: Lisbon - Cáceres - Madrid (613 km / 381 miles)
After breakfast, depart Lisbon and cross the border into Spain, arriving in Cáceres, a beautifully preserved medieval city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Explore the Plaza Mayor, the bustling heart of Cáceres, surrounded by ancient towers and mansions. Visit the Torre de Bujaco, offering panoramic views of the square, and pass through the Arco de la Estrella, a grand gateway to the Old Town. Wander through the cobbled streets and marvel at the Palacio de Toledo-Moctezuma, a stunning example of 14th-century architecture.
Don’t miss the local specialties, like Torta del Casar cheese and fig cake, available in the quaint shops of the Old Town.
After soaking in Cáceres’ timeless beauty, continue to Madrid, where your unforgettable journey comes to an end.
Prices:
Per person in double/twin room: 1705 €
Single Supplement: 545 €
Supplement July to Oct.: 100 €
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San Sebastián
The Silken Amara Plaza Hotel offers a convenient location at the start of a picturesque walk leading to La Concha Bay and the Old Town, famed for its delicious pintxos (Basque tapas). The hotel emphasizes excellent service, comfort, and a commitment to detail, creating a memorable experience for guests. Showcasing an appreciation for modern art, the hotel displays a variety of works, including paintings, sculptures, and photographs. Its 162 rooms blend contemporary style with Basque charm. Guests can unwind with cocktails at the La Ola Bistro-Bar or savor a mix of pintxos, international dishes, and traditional Basque cuisine at the Plaza Restaurant.
Santander
The Hotel Santemar is located just 150 meters from El Sardinero Beach and the iconic Santander Casino, offering an elegant yet cozy atmosphere. This sophisticated hotel features 348 rooms, each designed for comfort with modern amenities such as air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, a minibar, and marble-accented bathrooms. Guests can enjoy sea views from select rooms and choose between decor inspired by mountain themes or elegant designs. The hotel also boasts a gym and an on-site restaurant catering to a variety of tastes, making it ideal for leisure and business travelers alike.
Oviedo
The Iberik Santo Domingo Plaza Hotel is a stylish four-star establishment located a short five-minute walk from Oviedo’s historic Cathedral. Its 101 rooms cater to a variety of needs, from family-friendly options to executive suites, all featuring modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi, minibars, and elegant bathrooms. Guests can enjoy the serene indoor garden, a 24-hour bar, a small gym, and convenient luggage storage.
A Coruña
The Hotel Exe La Coruña offers a perfect blend of comfort and convenience, situated next to the Cuatro Caminos Shopping and Leisure Center. A short walk from La Coruña's historic center and the beaches of Riazor and Orzán, this hotel provides bright, spacious rooms with modern amenities. Guests can enjoy facilities such as a fitness center, business center, parking, and free Wi-Fi. With its excellent location and well-rounded services, it is an ideal choice for both leisure and business travelers.
Santiago de Compostela
The Hotel Oca Puerta del Camino is a modern four-star hotel conveniently located near the Santiago de Compostela Conference Center. Perfect for events and leisure, it features spacious rooms with natural light, a garden, a piano bar, an outdoor pool, and excellent business facilities. Each room includes modern amenities like LED TVs, minibars, and free Wi-Fi, offering comfort and practicality for visitors.
Vigo
The Hotel Hesperia Vigo is nestled in a quiet area near Plaza de América and Balaídos Stadium, just a short drive from the city center. The hotel offers a range of accommodations, including rooms with city views, balconies, or extra beds for families. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, 24-hour reception, a breakfast buffet, event spaces, and a gym. Its location provides easy access to Vigo's attractions, including the stunning Cíes Islands and Rías Baixas.
Porto
The Holiday Inn Porto Gaia is a versatile hotel ideal for both business and leisure travelers. Located in Vila Nova de Gaia, it’s minutes from the famous Port Wine Cellars and close to Porto's UNESCO-listed Historic Center. Guests can enjoy rooms with views of the Douro River and Porto’s skyline, along with amenities like a spa, gym, restaurant, bar, and congress center. The spa offers a tranquil retreat with massages and wellness services, adding a touch of relaxation to your stay.
Coimbra
The Hotel Coimbra Aeminium by Meliá sits atop a hill in Coimbra, just 15 minutes from the historic university and key cultural sites like the Praça da República. This stylish hotel provides air-conditioned rooms in soothing pastel tones, complete with modern comforts such as minibars and cable TV. Guests can borrow bicycles for city exploration or dine at the Baga Restaurant, which offers a diverse menu of Portuguese and international dishes, including vegetarian options.
Lisbon
The Hotel Lutecia is a distinguished 4-star hotel in Lisbon's "New Avenues" residential area. Renovated in 2014, the hotel offers nine uniquely themed floors, blending creativity with comfort. Its convenient location near Avenida de Roma provides easy access to Lisbon's attractions. Guests can enjoy amenities like a 24-hour fitness center, free Wi-Fi, and the Fusion Restaurant, which serves Portuguese cuisine. With its innovative design and focus on guest experience, the Lutecia is a top choice for visitors to Lisbon.
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Note: Hotel information is based on data provided by the properties. Iberica Travel cannot guarantee the accuracy of this material in the future. Please consult each hotel's official website for the most up-to-date details. Hotels listed may be replaced with similar properties in the same category.
Here you will find commonly asked questions regarding our tours.
1. Are the tours for individuals, families, or small groups of friends?
- Yes. Our tours are for single travelers, couples, families, and groups of friends whom we put together with other travelers to form a larger group.
2. How many people are normally included on a tour?
We cannot guarantee an exact number per tour. Normally, it ranges from 10 to 25 people per group, but these numbers can vary greatly depending on the time of year. In summer, groups tend to be larger as this is a popular time of year, while the winter season usually attracts fewer people, thus smaller groups are formed. There are certain tours that combine travelers if the destinations follow the same routes; e.g., you may be on a 10-day tour package with companions traveling on a 5-day package. The tour will cover the same areas, and the 5-day package guests will break off thereafter. Also, more people may be joining in for the other part of the package.
3. Is there a guide or tour leader on the bus?
- Yes. An accompanying guide (tour leader) always travels with the group during the entire tour. An exception may occur when there are minimal numbers signed up for a particular tour. These small groups will travel with an experienced, English-speaking driver-guide. In all major cities, we use local professionals and licensed guides.
4. What languages do the guides use?
English and Spanish. All our tour guides speak both languages fluently. If a tour group consists of an English-speaking group only, the tour will run in English. But most of the tours will have both English and Spanish (from Latin America and Central America) passengers, so the guides will explain in both languages.
5. Do your tours run during certain times of the year?
Most of our tours run all year. Some tours, e.g., those running to the northern regions of Spain, only run from March until October. Each tour's description provides all the relevant information needed. For example, ''Sundays all year'' means that a tour will start on every Sunday of the year, regardless of the numbers. Just look up the calendar for the specific dates Sundays are falling on, and make sure you arrive in Spain a day before.
6. What cities do the tours start from?
Tours start in Madrid or Barcelona.
7. Where are the meeting points for the tours?
In Madrid, it is Calle Ferraz 3 (Ferraz Str., 3). This meeting point is in the city center, right off Plaza España.
In Barcelona, it is in the reception of the Hotel ''Catalunya Barcelona 505'' (Carrer de Muntaner, 505, 08022, Barcelona).
8. Do you pick them up from the hotels on the first day of the tour?
By default, no. We do not pick up from hotels because that would delay the tour launch time. However, if your hotel is en route, using the same bus route on launch day, we will pick you up. A week before travel, we require the name of your hotel in Madrid and will inform you if you can be picked up directly from your hotel or need to head over to the meeting point at 7.45 a.m.
In Barcelona, the meeting point is always in the reception of the ''Catalunya Barcelona 505'' hotel.
9. What type of vehicles do you use?
We use buses for larger groups and minibuses for smaller ones. Vehicles are comfortable, modern, and equipped with air conditioning.
10. If there is Wi-Fi on your buses,?
There is Wi-Fi on all our buses in Spain and Portugal. But please keep in mind that sometimes during the transfers between the cities, the Wi-Fi signal can be weak or intermitting due to poor coverage from the main operators. Please do not expect very high Internet speed (to download or stream movies during the transfers).
11. Are meals included?
Buffet breakfasts with all the drinks are included every morning in all hotels our guests occupy during their tour.
Lunches and dinners are included anywhere that's mentioned in the itinerary (sections ''Itinerary'' and ''Included in Tour''). Normally, dinners are held in the hotel's restaurants, but many times they will be buffet (''eat as much as you want''), and only drinks will be at an extra cost. Also, sometimes lunches and dinners will be held in the restaurants.
12. If I am a vegetarian or allergic to certain products, is there any problem?
No problems at all. Inform the tour leader, and he will assist you. On a side note, many dinners are buffet-type, so you can simply choose what you prefer. For those with allergies, if in doubt, please remind the tour leader during mealtimes. Alternatively, ask the restaurant staff about the content of the dishes.
13. What time do you arrive in Madrid on your last day of travel? Can I book a flight on the same day, flying out of Spain?
Normally, we return to Madrid between 17.00 and 19.00 on the last day of the tour. However, it is not recommended to book the flight out on the same evening or night, as traffic jams in Madrid or other possible events may delay your arrival. Feel free to talk to us before starting the tour, and we'll organize your overnight stay in Madrid after the tour.
14. I need a night in the hotel or a transfer from or to the airport to be booked before or after the tour.
Sure. Just let us know at the time you organize it.
15. Can I just show up for the trip without a reservation and pay directly in the office, on the spot?
Unfortunately, not. The tour must be booked in advance, as we need to make all the arrangements beforehand.
16. How long in advance should I book a trip?
If you book at least 2 weeks in advance, the trip is guaranteed for you, though we recommend booking even earlier, if possible, as in these cases we have a wider range of hotels to accommodate the early reservations—better options.
17. Can I customize one of the tours for myself?
No, as there are more people traveling with you on the tour. However, if you represent an agency or the leader of a group of people, contact us; we'll take care of a private and customized tour for your party only.
18. What is the booking process?
It is simple. Once you have chosen the tour, there are six steps:
1. You confirm the tour by e-mail, indicating the starting date, tour code, number of persons traveling, and their names, as well as the types of rooms preferred (single, double, or triple).
2. We will send you an invoice.
3. You pay 10% to book the tour.
4. We issue the confirmation.
5. Three weeks before the starting date, you pay the rest of the money due, and
6. You show up for the tour on the appointed date and time.
19. How much should I pay and when?
We require a 10% deposit during reservation and the remaining 90% no less than 3 weeks before the tour commences.
20. How would I pay?
You can pay in one of four ways:
1. Bank wire to our company’s bank account. Our banking details are included on the invoice that you receive.
2. We can charge your credit card. Please keep in mind that, in this case, we charge an additional 2% on top of the amount (bank charges).
3. Transferwise.com is an online system allowing the transfer of funds. There is a small commission attached.
4. Western Union (normally for short-notice reservations and when the amount needs to be received urgently).
21. What is the cancellation and refund policy?
10% paid at the time of reservation is non-refundable. The other 90% is fully refundable if cancelled in no less than 2 weeks (e.g., if you paid 100% upfront, you get the whole amount right away). There are no refunds for cancellations made with less than 3 weeks to go before the trip.
22. Are there any discounts or surcharges?
Yes. Discounts are listed under the section ''Prices'', under each package.
23. Are taxes included in the tour prices?
Yes, VAT and tourist taxes for different cities are included.
24. How do I know if I need a visa for Spain or Morocco?
- Please check the visa information for Spain here. The visa requirements for Morocco can be found here. Please note that all trips to Morocco will require your Schengen visa to be of an ''multiple entry'', as you will enter Spain for the second time.
25. I am ready to go ahead and book one of your tours, but I need a visa to enter Spain.
Yes, we do help our customers get their visas after a trip is confirmed. As we are a fully licensed tour operator in Spain, after the deposit is paid, we can issue a confirmation, which you can later bring to the Spanish Embassy or Consulate. In this letter, we confirm that you booked and partially (or fully) paid for a tour with us. Please note that we do not guarantee the issue of a visa and cannot influence the process. The decision is up to the Embassy, as they have their own rules and regulations for each country. At the same time, we do our best to ensure we provide assistance where possible.