So you've made the decision you want to go on a OneSeed trek. Awesome! That's a decision well made. But now might come the tricky part. Which one will suite you best for your next adventure? Our team at OneSeed is here to help make your decision process less stressful.
With...
In past entries we’ve tackled some of the challenges you’re likely to face in preparing for an expedition with OneSeed, now we’ll take on a different, but often confusing part of the experience: how, what and when to tip your OneSeed guide.
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Alright all you aspiring OneSeedlings, it’s high time for some tough love. Now we’re not trying to scare you off, but the fact is that one of our most consistent topics for post-trip feedback is the physical demands of our expeditions. We plan our trips carefully to make sure that...
If you've pulled the trigger on joining us for one of our Chilean expeditions, the good news is that you've already got a lot to look forward too. The better news is that you’ll be flying into Santiago, Chile’s inspiring capital city.
While you’re sure to have an unforgettable journey with...
Nepal is a great place, so if you forgot about those pesky time zones and arrive early or want more time to explore we've gathered some information that will be helpful to you.
While we are excited for you to join us, we are only able to pick you up from...
As adventurous, traveling women, we can be finicky creatures, and we can go to extremes. Determined to not stand out as the woman that brought along a hairdryer, sometimes we may pack so little that we remove from our packs the ever important toilet paper or tampons we think we...
Always be prepared! The scout's motto is simple, but true. Being well prepared for your trek will make your time much more enjoyable, and you can focus on the wonders around you rather than your blistered feet! Here are a few tips to help you prepare for your trek. Starting...
Packing for a hike in the Himalayas is more involved than throwing things in your carry-on for a getaway weekend, but it does not need to be overwhelming. OneSeed has provided you a packing list with the basics of what you will need for your trek. Some of you...
1. Why should I choose OneSeed to organize my expedition?
OneSeed prides itself on providing the best security and accountability in the industry. Essential to our mission is investment in the communities through which we travel. We offer comprehensive insurance, fair wages, and language training to our guides and porters. We provide affordable loans to women living in poverty by investing 10 percent of our revenues in trusted local microfinance banks. The unique nature of our expeditions will take you off the beaten path, allow you to explore the communities we support. When you travel with OneSeed, you explore the world and invest in people.
2. What measures has OneSeed taken to ensure that its operations are environmentally sustainable and socially conscious?
OneSeed’s partner lodges must adhere to our sustainability standards, which outline expectations for limiting deforestation, controlling waste, and promoting local ownership. We integrate social responsibility throughout all of our business practices. Our equitable employment standards offer our entire team, from porters and guides through management, a profit-sharing stake in the company. Learn more about our commitment to sustainability.
3. What measures has OneSeed taken to ensure my safety and security throughout the course of the trip?
We recruit guides with ample experience, and the competitive wages we pay allows us to be selective in choosing guides of the highest caliber. With an average guide to client ration of 1:4, each expedition is lead by our experienced team of guiding professionals. Additionally, embedded in the cost of every expedition is medical and evacuation insurance through our partner USI Affinity (available only for U.S. and Canadian citizens; Quebec excluded). View your Insurance Options.
4. What does the cost of the trip cover?
Every expedition includes comprehensive medical and evacuation insurance (view Insurance Options), all domestic travel, all housing accommodations on the trek, all scheduled meals, permits, entrance fees, guide/porter services, and a final farewell dinner at the conclusion of the trip.
5. If I cancel my trip can I get a refund?
Each trip requires a non-refundable deposit of $1000. The remaining amount is due 60 days before departure. If after 60 days we cancel the trip due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances, you will have the option to either reschedule your trip or request a full refund. However, if you decide to cancel, your payment cannot be refunded. We also offer the option of adding the USI gold policy insurance, which covers trip cancellation for any reason.
Discounted promotional offers through zozi.com, Google Deals, bloomspot.com, or other third-party agents are 100% non-refundable.
6. What if I need medical assistance at some point during the trip?
Part of the cost of your trip includes medical and evacuation insurance (view Insurance Options). In case of emergency, our staff is well trained to facilitate medical treatment and emergency transport.
7. What risks are associated with the types of expeditions that OneSeed organizes?
The adverse effects of altitude are the most common risk associated with trekking in Chile or Nepal. In case of altitude sickness, guides will lead individuals down the mountain and seek medical care. Common injuries associated with walking or hiking of any kind (i.e. sprained ankles or strained muscles) may also pose a risk.
8. Are there cultural differences and local customs I should be aware of?
As part of the pre-trip orientation and the arrival process, we will conduct a full cultural orientation and overview.
9. What should I bring on the trip?
You are responsible for all personal clothing and gear, but no technical gear (i.e. rope, crampons) is required. Upon scheduling your trip, you will receive a full packing list based on the length and difficulty of the trek.
10. How should I dress?
Rural ares where we trek are typically conservative and you should dress accordingly so as to show respect to the people living in the communities through which we will travel.
11. How do I apply for a visa?
For US citizens, visas are available upon arrival in both Chile and Nepal. For information on fees and requirements, contact the relevant embassy directly.
12. What currency should I bring?
ATMs are available in both Kathmandu and Santiago. You should plan to bring a mix of cash, credit cards, and foreign currency.
13. What if I have never been trekking before?
OneSeed trips are appropriate for beginners. It is expected that you be in good physical shape prior to the expedition, that you maintain a regular exercise routine, and that you are able to walk 5-7 hours per day for most Intermediate expeditions.
14. Is it difficult to get used to the altitude?
The pacing and progression of the trips allows for altitude adjustment. We closely monitor the effects of altitude on our clients, and in case of sickness, we can move you quickly to a lower altitude.
15. How steep are the trails we will be climbing?
The trails are the primary means of transport for people living in the communities through which we will be traveling. At the steepest, trails will incline as much as a staircase. In general, the elevation rises and falls, similar to established footpaths anywhere.
16. I’m having trouble deciding which OneSeed expedition is right for my level of ability. Can you offer suggestions?
Intermediate trips are best for beginners, as they demand shorter stints of walking and include more frequent rest days. Difficult trips are more physically challenging and good for individuals with at least basic hiking experience and regular exercise routines.
17. What should I do to prepare physically for the trip?
Frequent walking exercise with inclines, regular physical activity, or jogging are recommended. The better shape you are in, the more enjoyable the trip will be.
18. Will I be able to communicate with family via Internet or telephone while on the trek?
While internet and phone services are not commonly available in the areas where we will be trekking, regular updates will be posted on our website and twitter feed so that others will be able to follow the progress of the expedition.
19. How do you select your guides and what kind of training do they receive?
We hire only the highest quality guides with extensive experience prior to joining OneSeed. We offer training programs for risk management and English language skills.
20. Why does OneSeed support microfinance programs?
Our microfinance partners in Nepal and Chile provide women with low interest capital to make investments to start or better their small businesses, increasing their incomes sustainably and empowering them by imparting financial skills and the responsibility of making financial decisions for their families.
21. How does your partnership with MFIs work?
Ten percent of our total revenue is dispersed directly to our MFI partner. The MFI partner then extends this capital in small loans to women in need of capital. These monies are then collected back through the MFI, and paid to OneSeed for later disbursement. OneSeed loans are disbursed on the first day of each expedition. Following a one-month grace period, collections occur monthly.
22. I can’t go on an expedition at this time, but I would like to get more involved with OneSeed and the great work you are doing. How can I help?
Get involved!
FAQ
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. Why should I choose OneSeed to organize my expedition?
2. What measures has OneSeed taken to ensure that its operations are environmentally sustainable and socially conscious?
3. What measures has OneSeed taken to ensure my safety and security throughout the course of the trip?
4. What does the cost of the trip cover?
5. If I cancel my trip can I get a refund?
6. What if I need medical assistance at some point during the trip?
7. What risks are associated with the types of expeditions that OneSeed organizes?
8. Are there cultural differences and local customs I should be aware of?
9. What should I bring on the trip?
10. How should I dress?
11. How do I apply for a visa?
12. What currency should I bring?
13. What if I have never been trekking before?
14. Is it difficult to get used to the altitude?
15. How steep are the trails we will be climbing?
16. I’m having trouble deciding which OneSeed expedition is right for my level of ability. Can you offer suggestions?
17. What should I do to prepare physically for the trip?
18. Will I be able to communicate with family via Internet or telephone while on the trek?
19. How do you select your guides and what kind of training do they receive?
20. Why does OneSeed support microfinance programs?
21. How does your partnership with MFIs work?
22. I can’t go on an expedition at this time, but I would like to get more involved with OneSeed and the great work you are doing. How can I help?
What are the elevation changes on my trek?
What's an appropriate guide to tipping in Nepal and Chile?
Readiness 101: Getting Your Rear Into Gear. Literally.
What should I do if I arrive early to Santiago?
I arrived early in Kathmandu. Oh no, oh no, what will I do?
Heels and Hiking Boots: A Woman's Strategy to Packing for the Trail
7 Tips to Prepare for Your Trek
Packing 101: You've Booked the Trip. Now What to Bring?
1. Why should I choose OneSeed to organize my expedition?
OneSeed prides itself on providing the best security and accountability in the industry. Essential to our mission is investment in the communities through which we travel. We offer comprehensive insurance, fair wages, and language training to our guides and porters. We provide affordable loans to women living in poverty by investing 10 percent of our revenues in trusted local microfinance banks. The unique nature of our expeditions will take you off the beaten path, allow you to explore the communities we support. When you travel with OneSeed, you explore the world and invest in people.
2. What measures has OneSeed taken to ensure that its operations are environmentally sustainable and socially conscious?
OneSeed’s partner lodges must adhere to our sustainability standards, which outline expectations for limiting deforestation, controlling waste, and promoting local ownership. We integrate social responsibility throughout all of our business practices. Our equitable employment standards offer our entire team, from porters and guides through management, a profit-sharing stake in the company. Learn more about our commitment to sustainability.
3. What measures has OneSeed taken to ensure my safety and security throughout the course of the trip?
We recruit guides with ample experience, and the competitive wages we pay allows us to be selective in choosing guides of the highest caliber. With an average guide to client ration of 1:4, each expedition is lead by our experienced team of guiding professionals. Additionally, embedded in the cost of every expedition is medical and evacuation insurance through our partner USI Affinity (available only for U.S. and Canadian citizens; Quebec excluded). View your Insurance Options.
4. What does the cost of the trip cover?
Every expedition includes comprehensive medical and evacuation insurance (view Insurance Options), all domestic travel, all housing accommodations on the trek, all scheduled meals, permits, entrance fees, guide/porter services, and a final farewell dinner at the conclusion of the trip.
5. If I cancel my trip can I get a refund?
Each trip requires a non-refundable deposit of $1000. The remaining amount is due 60 days before departure. If after 60 days we cancel the trip due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances, you will have the option to either reschedule your trip or request a full refund. However, if you decide to cancel, your payment cannot be refunded. We also offer the option of adding the USI gold policy insurance, which covers trip cancellation for any reason.
Discounted promotional offers through zozi.com, Google Deals, bloomspot.com, or other third-party agents are 100% non-refundable.
6. What if I need medical assistance at some point during the trip?
Part of the cost of your trip includes medical and evacuation insurance (view Insurance Options). In case of emergency, our staff is well trained to facilitate medical treatment and emergency transport.
7. What risks are associated with the types of expeditions that OneSeed organizes?
The adverse effects of altitude are the most common risk associated with trekking in Chile or Nepal. In case of altitude sickness, guides will lead individuals down the mountain and seek medical care. Common injuries associated with walking or hiking of any kind (i.e. sprained ankles or strained muscles) may also pose a risk.
8. Are there cultural differences and local customs I should be aware of?
As part of the pre-trip orientation and the arrival process, we will conduct a full cultural orientation and overview.
9. What should I bring on the trip?
You are responsible for all personal clothing and gear, but no technical gear (i.e. rope, crampons) is required. Upon scheduling your trip, you will receive a full packing list based on the length and difficulty of the trek.
10. How should I dress?
Rural ares where we trek are typically conservative and you should dress accordingly so as to show respect to the people living in the communities through which we will travel.
11. How do I apply for a visa?
For US citizens, visas are available upon arrival in both Chile and Nepal. For information on fees and requirements, contact the relevant embassy directly.
12. What currency should I bring?
ATMs are available in both Kathmandu and Santiago. You should plan to bring a mix of cash, credit cards, and foreign currency.
13. What if I have never been trekking before?
OneSeed trips are appropriate for beginners. It is expected that you be in good physical shape prior to the expedition, that you maintain a regular exercise routine, and that you are able to walk 5-7 hours per day for most Intermediate expeditions.
14. Is it difficult to get used to the altitude?
The pacing and progression of the trips allows for altitude adjustment. We closely monitor the effects of altitude on our clients, and in case of sickness, we can move you quickly to a lower altitude.
15. How steep are the trails we will be climbing?
The trails are the primary means of transport for people living in the communities through which we will be traveling. At the steepest, trails will incline as much as a staircase. In general, the elevation rises and falls, similar to established footpaths anywhere.
16. I’m having trouble deciding which OneSeed expedition is right for my level of ability. Can you offer suggestions?
Intermediate trips are best for beginners, as they demand shorter stints of walking and include more frequent rest days. Difficult trips are more physically challenging and good for individuals with at least basic hiking experience and regular exercise routines.
17. What should I do to prepare physically for the trip?
Frequent walking exercise with inclines, regular physical activity, or jogging are recommended. The better shape you are in, the more enjoyable the trip will be.
18. Will I be able to communicate with family via Internet or telephone while on the trek?
While internet and phone services are not commonly available in the areas where we will be trekking, regular updates will be posted on our website and twitter feed so that others will be able to follow the progress of the expedition.
19. How do you select your guides and what kind of training do they receive?
We hire only the highest quality guides with extensive experience prior to joining OneSeed. We offer training programs for risk management and English language skills.
20. Why does OneSeed support microfinance programs?
Our microfinance partners in Nepal and Chile provide women with low interest capital to make investments to start or better their small businesses, increasing their incomes sustainably and empowering them by imparting financial skills and the responsibility of making financial decisions for their families.
21. How does your partnership with MFIs work?
Ten percent of our total revenue is dispersed directly to our MFI partner. The MFI partner then extends this capital in small loans to women in need of capital. These monies are then collected back through the MFI, and paid to OneSeed for later disbursement. OneSeed loans are disbursed on the first day of each expedition. Following a one-month grace period, collections occur monthly.
22. I can’t go on an expedition at this time, but I would like to get more involved with OneSeed and the great work you are doing. How can I help?
Get involved!