Post by Adam Pernak on Mar 27, 2012 0:42:18 GMT -5
How does Be Inspired Courses differ from other companies offering activities and courses?
Because we specialise in courses with a cultural content. There are plenty of sports and leisure specialists, as well as companies offering hot air balloon rides, speed boats, abseiling etc. Our trips are experience breaks - but with the emphasis firmly on the cultural side. By specialising in this way we can focus on delivering the best creative writing, art, music and literature courses we can.
How do Be Inspired courses differ from guided tours?
We differ in 2 main ways. Firstly, the social aspect. All our courses start with a get-to-know-you session. We break the ice and get you engaging with your fellow participants. This is especially important for the experience of solo travellers, who might otherwise feel marginalised. Everyone is equal on our courses, and your participation and input is an important part of the whole group experience. No two Be Inspired courses are the same, because the participants change.
Secondly, we differ because we give you time to engage with what you're seeing. Many guided tours are simply concerned with zooming you round a set of attractions, sometimes not even stopping or giving you time to take pictures, let alone engage with the place. We want you to experience what you're seeing, so we allow you the time to do so.
What is the cancellation period? Can I get a refund after I've booked a course, e.g. if i am unable to attend for any reason?
Full terms and conditions of booking can be found on the How To Book page of the website.
Do I have to pay for my course with a credit or debit card through the site?
It's better if you can, as it's instant and we can confirm your place immediately. If you don't have a credit or debit card you can pay by sending us a cheque or making a bank transfer. Contact us on (0113) 2177605 or through the Contact Us page on the website and we'll send you booking details.
Why don't you include accommodation in your courses?
Firstly, because not everyone needs accommodation. Some participants choose to stay with friends, add our course to an existing holiday break, and in some cases are actually locals who want to take part for the social aspect of the course. It is highly unlikely that we would be able to offer hotel accommodation any cheaper than booking specialists such as Late Rooms, so we don't try to. All our courses are based in locations which offer a choice of hotel options suitable to all budgets. You can book your accommodation by visiting the Hotels page of our website.
What is the typical age of participants on your courses?
All ages from 18 to 90. The literary courses tend to attract a slightly older clientele than the weekend courses, but overall the courses are aimed at adults of all ages, so age isn't really an issue.
Are your courses suitable for people with physical disabilities?
It varies. If you have a physical disability you should read the detailed itinerary before booking - this outlines the extent of physical exertion, and from this you will be able to gauge whether it is suitable for you. Most courses do include a lot of walking, but we try to make our courses as inclusive as possible. If you aren't sure then give us a call and we can advise on the specific physical requirements of a course.
Are your courses suitable for solo travellers?
Absolutely! One of the prinicipal ideas behind Be Inspired is to bring people together who have shared interests. The social aspect is important and the more you are willing to participate the more you'll get out of your course. We're not a dating site - but if you're single and happen to meet someone you like on one of our courses then good luck to you!
Can I make a group booking? Do you offer discounts/free places for course leaders?
Small groups between 3 and 10 participants can book straight onto our timetabled courses. To make a small group booking give us a call on (0113) 2177605 - or send us a message via the Contact Us page, including your contact details and we'll get back to you. We offer discounted rates for groups and would be happy to discuss this with you.
Groups of 10+ participants can book their own bespoke course with us. This can follow the same timetable as our existing courses, but if you have any specific alternative requirements feel free to contact us to discuss this and we'll do our best to oblige. Group leaders will qualify for significantly discounted places, with free places available on certain courses.
How do I apply to be an agent for Be Inspired Courses?
Contact us, and we will send you our agents' applicaton form. We offer attractive rates of commission and welcome applications from established agents with a proven track record.
Because we specialise in courses with a cultural content. There are plenty of sports and leisure specialists, as well as companies offering hot air balloon rides, speed boats, abseiling etc. Our trips are experience breaks - but with the emphasis firmly on the cultural side. By specialising in this way we can focus on delivering the best creative writing, art, music and literature courses we can.
How do Be Inspired courses differ from guided tours?
We differ in 2 main ways. Firstly, the social aspect. All our courses start with a get-to-know-you session. We break the ice and get you engaging with your fellow participants. This is especially important for the experience of solo travellers, who might otherwise feel marginalised. Everyone is equal on our courses, and your participation and input is an important part of the whole group experience. No two Be Inspired courses are the same, because the participants change.
Secondly, we differ because we give you time to engage with what you're seeing. Many guided tours are simply concerned with zooming you round a set of attractions, sometimes not even stopping or giving you time to take pictures, let alone engage with the place. We want you to experience what you're seeing, so we allow you the time to do so.
What is the cancellation period? Can I get a refund after I've booked a course, e.g. if i am unable to attend for any reason?
Full terms and conditions of booking can be found on the How To Book page of the website.
Do I have to pay for my course with a credit or debit card through the site?
It's better if you can, as it's instant and we can confirm your place immediately. If you don't have a credit or debit card you can pay by sending us a cheque or making a bank transfer. Contact us on (0113) 2177605 or through the Contact Us page on the website and we'll send you booking details.
Why don't you include accommodation in your courses?
Firstly, because not everyone needs accommodation. Some participants choose to stay with friends, add our course to an existing holiday break, and in some cases are actually locals who want to take part for the social aspect of the course. It is highly unlikely that we would be able to offer hotel accommodation any cheaper than booking specialists such as Late Rooms, so we don't try to. All our courses are based in locations which offer a choice of hotel options suitable to all budgets. You can book your accommodation by visiting the Hotels page of our website.
What is the typical age of participants on your courses?
All ages from 18 to 90. The literary courses tend to attract a slightly older clientele than the weekend courses, but overall the courses are aimed at adults of all ages, so age isn't really an issue.
Are your courses suitable for people with physical disabilities?
It varies. If you have a physical disability you should read the detailed itinerary before booking - this outlines the extent of physical exertion, and from this you will be able to gauge whether it is suitable for you. Most courses do include a lot of walking, but we try to make our courses as inclusive as possible. If you aren't sure then give us a call and we can advise on the specific physical requirements of a course.
Are your courses suitable for solo travellers?
Absolutely! One of the prinicipal ideas behind Be Inspired is to bring people together who have shared interests. The social aspect is important and the more you are willing to participate the more you'll get out of your course. We're not a dating site - but if you're single and happen to meet someone you like on one of our courses then good luck to you!
Can I make a group booking? Do you offer discounts/free places for course leaders?
Small groups between 3 and 10 participants can book straight onto our timetabled courses. To make a small group booking give us a call on (0113) 2177605 - or send us a message via the Contact Us page, including your contact details and we'll get back to you. We offer discounted rates for groups and would be happy to discuss this with you.
Groups of 10+ participants can book their own bespoke course with us. This can follow the same timetable as our existing courses, but if you have any specific alternative requirements feel free to contact us to discuss this and we'll do our best to oblige. Group leaders will qualify for significantly discounted places, with free places available on certain courses.
How do I apply to be an agent for Be Inspired Courses?
Contact us, and we will send you our agents' applicaton form. We offer attractive rates of commission and welcome applications from established agents with a proven track record.