Frequently Asked
Questions
Why should we book with Beard & Compass?
Mykonos is an upscale island that can be very pricey - especially during the peak travel month of August. And for good reason. That is the best time to be there.
By traveling as a group, we are able to work with our travel partners to secure group rates that are not possible while traveling solo or with a smaller group.
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Traveling with a group provides not only safety but more opportunities to make new friends and connections. Many travel agents plan your trip and send you on your way. That's now how our group trips work. We'll be there with you exploring and partying right alongside you, so in the event you run into any issues, we'll be there to help.
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WE DO ALL THE PLANNING & HARD WORK -
SO YOU DON'T HAVE TO!
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We've been there, done that. We know the must-sees and must-dos and know what you can skip.
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You'll gain exclusive access to our itinerary & recommendations, and through the strategic partnerships we've forged, you will be able to take advantage of our special pricing.
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I'm worried about COVID. Is it a good idea travel right now?
We understand there's a lot of uncertainty and you may be apprehensive about traveling right now. Like many of you, most of our 2020 travel was canceled or postponed. While no one can tell you exactly how COVID will affect travel in 2021, we can guide you on precautions to take to prepare for the worst - or for the best.
NOW MORE THAN EVER, WE REALIZE THAT WE ALL NEED
SOMETHING TO LOOK FORWARD TO.
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Now is also the perfect time to take advantage great prices. It's inevitable that once demand returns, rates will increase.
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As healthcare providers, we are taking extra precautions to ensure we all travel as safely and responsibly as possible.If we do not feel that it's safe or a good idea to travel, we will keep you informed and updated as we continue to gather information. In the meantime, we highly recommend you consider buying an add-on travel insurance, which we can help you set up. We also recommend you choose a hotel with a flexible or semi-flexible cancelation policy. See our hotels' cancelations policies here.
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What is included?
Pricing includes hotel accommodations and a private catamaran day
and sunset sail excursion with a chef-prepared lunch, unlimited wine and champagne
Curated suggested itinerary with tips, suggestions, and recommendations
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We would be also be glad to help you book your airfare.
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What is not included?
Airfare/Ferry tickets
Transfers to/from airport/hotel and events
Meals and alcohol (some hotel rates include breakfast)
XLsior Party Tickets
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How much does it cost?
Rates are based on double or single occupancy and the type of room you book. Inquire by sending us an email to let us know if you will be sharing a room or if you prefer your own room. Accommodations are subject to availability and prices are subject to change.
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Do I have to go to the events on the itinerary?
No. All events and activities come as suggestions and are completely optional. While we are traveling as a group and welcome everyone to be involved, this is your holiday and you are encouraged to make the best of it however you may choose.
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Who typically goes on your trips?
We strive to put together a group who is fun, friendly, professional, respectful, and those who share a love of travel and exploration. As a small company, many of our guests are our friends or friends of friends.
While we cater to primarily gay men, we also welcome allies.
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How do I reserve my spot?
Email us to check availability. and then we will help you customize your trip. To reserve, you will pay a 500 USD deposit.
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How can I pay?
It's 2021. We accept Venmo and Cash App and if paying by credit card, we accept PayPal (with a 2.9% fee).
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500 USD non-refundable deposit is required at time of booking. Additional 500 USD payment required 8 weeks prior to trip (by June 25, 2021) and final balance due 4 weeks prior to trip (by July 23 2021)
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If we are booking your airfare, this should be paid at time of booking.
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How do I protect my trip in the event of cancelation?
Great question! COVID has changed everything when it comes to traveling. Most travel insurances, unless you opt for the "cancel for any reason" option, do not cover cancelations due to a pandemic. We can offer you travel insurance thru TravelEx that covers most other things like sickness or a job loss.
However, our partners at Travelex offer plans that offer Trip Cancelation/Trip Interruption coverage for those insured if they or their traveling companion contracts the coronavirus or is physically quarantined while coverage is in effect. An insured may also be eligible for Trip Cancellation/Trip Interruption coverage if a non-traveling Family Member is diagnosed with the coronavirus and is considered life-threatening or they require the insured’s immediate care.
Many of our travel partners have adjusted their cancelation policies because of COVID. See our terms & conditions here. Each hotel has its own terms & conditions and cancelation policies which will be communicated to you prior to book.
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What is Mykonos like during XLSIOR?
Our small-group experience will take place during the 2021 XLSIOR Festival.
Xlsior 2021 runs from August 18-25 with parties and events each day. Individual tickets will be sold at the door and All-access passes are expected to go on sale soon.
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The 2021 program has not been released yet but you can stay posted here.
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While Mykonos is one of the most beautiful gay-friendly destinations in Europe and perhaps the world, it is especially open and welcoming during the week of Xlsior. Xlsior has grown into one of Europe's biggest gay festivals attracting over 30,000 men from around the world.
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Xlsior party and events are completely optional. Feel free to go to every event or none at all. Regardless, you are sure to have one of the most memorable weeks of your life.
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What if I want to go different dates or stay in a different hotel or villa?
Just let us know. We would be happy to help you plan your trip for anytime of year. If you have a specific hotel you're interested in, we can check directly with the hotel to ensure we get you the best deal and package. We also have several partners who offer holiday villas in Mykonos and around the world.
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If can't join us for our 2021 dates and would like to go another time, we would be glad to set this up for you.
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Let us know what you want and we will do our best to meet and exceed your expectations.