Do I have to be catholic to join a pilgrimage?

People who choose to journey on pilgrimage are from every creed, religious background,, culture and nationality.  Even though a Mir Pilgrimage is catholic in essence, everyone is welcome.

Do I have to join activities if I am not very 'religious'?

Everyone is at a different place on the continuum.  Nothing is compulsory and you can join in or not as you please.

I have never travelled overseas - how do I prepare?

A very detailed comprehensive pack of information will be sent to you two-three weeks before departure (also uploaded on a password protected page on this website.)  The pack includes information on what to pack, accommodation addresses and contact numbers, handy hints for air travel and information about sites you will be visiting;. all the information you need to be fully prepared.

I am travelling on my own.  Do I have to pay for a single room supplement?

There is usually always someone we can room you with in a twin or triple configuration if you do not wish to pay single supplement for your own room. However, there are no guarantees. Indicate your preference on the Registration Form.

Does mir pilgrimages work with a bonded travel agency?

Yes.   Mir Pilgrimages organises pilgrimages in association with a bonded travel agency. Mir Pilgrimages' founder, however, does not work in a travel agency.   She has separate full time employment and organises the pilgrimages outside normal working hours.

Do i have to pay the full amount at once?

After you have filled in a booking form, you pay a deposit to secure your place on the pilgrimage.  See terms and conditions for information on deposits and deadlines for payment. You will receive a balance of payment invoice when full payment is due and will be informed of due dates for payment in advance..

what about travel insurance?

Travel Insurance is a condition of travel with Mir Pilgrimages. You can choose your own travel insurance provider or seek advice from the travel agency at time of booking.

how fit do I have to be?

A reasonable amount of fitness is preferred as pilgrimages always involve some walking paver and above what you would normally do at home.  It is always advisable to build up your fitness levels (such as getting out for a walk each day) leading up to the pilgrimage departure.  It is expected that pilgrims will be in reasonably good health.
Please talk to us about any disability or medical concerns you may have at time of registration.   Your information will be held in confidence.

are children welcome to come on pilgrimage?

Children are welcome, however they are the responsibility of their parents/guardian while on pilgrimage.

is there a group leader on pilgrimage?

A group leader always escorts the pilgrimage from the point of departure and throughout the pilgrimage and local English-speaking guides are on-site where applicable,, to impart local knowledge and expertise.

does a chaplain accompany the pilgrimage?

Every effort is made to have a chaplain on a Mir Pilgrimage.  Chaplains are not group leaders; the group leader and the chaplain have distinctly different roles. The chaplain is concerned with the pastoral wellbeing of the pilgrims and to assist in the liturgical celebrations.  The group leader leads the pilgrimage and takes care of general and practical matters related to running a pilgrimage.

can i extend my trip at the end of the pilgrimage?

Definitely. Speak to the travel agency and discuss your requirements with them.  They will assist you in creating an itinerary to suit your budget for any extended time overseas.

what about visas?

In the Terms and Conditions there is information regarding any visa requirements necessary for New Zealand passport holders.  Holders of other passports can obtain information from the travel agency, who can also assist in the process of applying for visas.

what are the average group sizes?

Most Mir Pilgrimage group sizes range from 10-25 pilgrims.