have a question?
Purposeful Nomad knows from experience how important it is to feel informed and prepared for travel abroad. We always want to make sure we’ve answered your every question and provided you with all of the details you need. Please don't hesitate to reach out if you've got a question that isn't answered here.
Is it safe for women to travel to Oaxaca?
Yes. The Oaxaca is a highly traveled area and typically very safe. It is always a good idea to bring only what you need and leave all valuables at home. Don't leave stuff unattended anywhere. Like most countries in Latin America it is not uncommon for men to cat call or whistle. Generally this is pretty harmless and best to ignore.
Do you have a payment plan for this trip?
Yes! After paying the deposit for the trip, you can chose to pay the remaining balance in 3-5 installments up until 90 days of departure.
What is the weather like in Oaxaca?
Oaxaca’s seasons are wet and dry. During our trip we will be in the hotter, drier season. The daytime is typically sunny and in the 70’s and 80’s. It can drop into the 40’s at night so its important to bring layers!
Will the group be together the whole time?
Groups travel together at all times in a private van with driver and guide. There are specific days where you are allowed to choose your own adventure, wander into town or just hang out.
Can I drink the water?
No. It is not recommended to drink tap water. We will have big jugs of filtered water. Having said that, please bring a reusable water bottle as most hotels and tourist destinations offer refilling stations.
Do I need to speak Spanish?
It is certainly not a requirement but always fun to try! Every group has a bilingual guide so there is nothing to worry about.
Is there internet?
Yes. There is wifi at both lodges where we will be staying but please be aware that sometimes it does go down and/or the signal is lost.
WHO IS OUR IDEAL TRAVELER?
We like to say: It’s not about age but all about attitude! Our ideal client is open to trying new things, getting their hands dirty, looking to engage with local communities and most importantly they have an open-minded, curious attitude. All types of ages, sizes and women come on our trips.
IS PURPOSEFUL NOMAD INSURED?
Yes. Purposeful Nomad is a fully insured through American International Group, Inc. Here at Purposeful Nomad we do our best to ensure that every program is a success. However, in the event of something unexpected we want you to be fully protected. We REQUIRE that you purchase international medical insurance. This is different from your health insurance. International medical emergency travel insurance is short-term protection for any medical costs incurred outside your home country. It’s incredibly easy and usually below $100 depending on the coverage you want.
Purposeful Nomad is an affiliate partner with World Nomads. You can review and purchase travel insurance HERE.
WHAT IF I GET INJURED ON A PURPOSEFUL NOMAD TRIP?
Your safety is paramount and will be taken very seriously. In case of an emergency our drivers will be at hand to take anyone to the clinic or hospital. Because we will be in rural areas and partaking in adventurous activities having your own travel insurance in addition to our company insurance will protect you from any unwanted costs in the end.
WHAT IF I DON’T SPEAK THE LANGUAGE?
No worries at all!! Included in all our trips are local, bi-lingual guides. Wherever needed there is a translator.
DOES PURPOSEFUL NOMAD ACCOMMODATE DIETARY RESTRICTIONS?
There is a spot in the application to note all allergies and food restrictions. Purposeful Nomad will work with you personally to make sure this is something that we can accommodate.
CAN I ENJOY SOME ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES ON THE TRIP?
You may. Alcohol is not included in the price of the trip and where available you may choose to purchase that on your own. There are certain settings during some trips where alcohol should not be consumed for cultural reasons, but our guides will give you a heads up when we encounter those moments.
WHAT DO I NEED TO BRING?
There is detailed packing list associated with every trip. You can find the link under “Additional Resources".
ARE THERE PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS TO TRAVEL WITH PURPOSEFUL NOMAD?
Each trip has varying levels of activity so it depends on the itinerary. Overall, everyone must be healthy and physically able to move about without complication. You are responsible for taking all necessary health precautions before and during your trip. It is the client's responsibility to ensure they seek professional medical advice before traveling and to take all necessary health precautions and preventative measures. Having said that, every activity is optional and should you choose not to participate in everything that is completely fine. We encourage everyone to take it at their own pace. Every hike will have different levels of length and difficulty, as well as different activities to choose from.
WILL THE GROUP BE TOGETHER THE WHOLE TIME?
Yes. Groups travel together at all times in a private van with driver and guide. There are specific days where you are welcome to choose your own adventure or wander out on your own if desired. A few meals are not included and they are noted on each itinerary.
HOW DOES PURPOSEFUL NOMAD VET AND SELECT IT’S PARTNERS?
The Purposeful Nomad team personally meets with the communities and/or non-profits which we partner with during the trip creation process. We ask the hard questions, for example: where do you get your funding? And, who benefits from the work being done? We also ask about the needs and strengths of each community and if we could provide a service, activity or new skill for one of our upcoming trips. Most importantly we listen to their answers. If we don’t like what we hear or it doesn’t align with our values then we simply move on. Meet some of our amazing partners!
Did we miss something? Feel free to contact us here and we’ll get right back to you.