Over the past two years of organizing the new "Come Along for the Ride" version of Street Rodder's Road Tour I realized that many of the same questions pop up as people think about joining the Tours. I thought maybe going over some of the FAQs might help folks decide whether they would like to participate.
What does the registration fee include?
The registration fee gets you officially registered for one of the weeklong vacation Tours. It includes a Tour T-shirt for each registered vehicle, ID badges for both driver and passenger, and a window sticker for each vehicle. This year's goodie bag was an embroidered canvas tote that was filled with catalogs, literature and a metal license plate of each Tour sponsor's logo. Also included is the entire week's schedule and maps for each day's travels.
How are rooms along the way handled?
A reduced rate is negotiated at hotels along the Tour route. Although we block a specific number of rooms at each evening's headquarters, each participant is responsible for booking their own rooms directly with the hotels. We try to use national chains and rooms generally range from $85 to $110 per night. You are not required to stay where we have blocked rooms but if you do, you need to make reservations 30 days prior to the Tour to get the reduced rate. You will receive a hotel list when you register for the Tour.
How fast do you go and does everyone stay together?
We realize that everyone has a different comfort level and driving style when they travel. We get together at a driver's meeting each morning before we leave. Since each day's route is mapped out, we encourage people to go at their own pace. Most folks quickly find others within the group who travel at their pace.
How far do you travel each day and how often do you stop for gas?
A typical Road Tour day is between 250 to 400 miles depending on whether we have a specific lunch stop or not. Folks stop for gas when they need gas.
What about meals along the way?
We have been able to enjoy some great complimentary meals along our Tours. If we have an evening shop tour it usually includes some food, but not every day includes a free meal.
Who can register and generally how big are the groups?
We do not require a specific year or style of vehicle to join us on the Tours. Be aware of the event that we are leaving from and going to and check for specific year limitations at those events. Sorry, but trailered cars and motor homes are not permitted. Pop-up campers pulled behind a registered vehicle are OK but you will need to find your own campground facilities.
We have had as many as 65 vehicles and as few as 10. Most Tours are between 20 to 35 vehicles. About 75% of the participants are couples.
What about the events at the beginning and ending of each week's Tours?
Our Tours cover the week BETWEEN the events. You will be responsible for registering for the events on your own. You will also need to make room accommodation at the location of the events.
Can I participate on only a portion of the Tour?
You are welcome to join us at any point along the route, but you do need to register and pay the total Tour fee. While we do ask people to register in advance, you can register at any time along the route.
Will I have fun on the Tour?
Judging by the happy faces, great comments and repeat participants, I can almost guarantee that you will have the time of your life on one of the Road Tours.
How can I get more information about the Tours?
Log onto our website at www.streetrodderweb.com and check out the Road Tour section. Watch the pages of Street Rodder and Street Scene or give us a call the Road Tour hotline at 1-800-664-1362. I hope you can join us in 2008!