Off The Beaten Track Ratings
1 dot: Firmly on the tourist trail - for example, India's Golden Triangle.2 dots: A reasonably popular tourist destination or region - for example, Jordan's classic sites.
3 dots: A mix of some remote places and some classic sites - say a classic tour of Colombia.
4 dots: A tour of a region that sees few visitors but you may see other travellers on some sections of the trip, say a cultural tour of southern Morocco.
5 dots: A remote area or destination that very few tourists have visited, for example, the tribal areas of Arunachal Pradesh in India or remote parts of Papua New Guinea.
Activity ratings
1 dot: Relaxation. There are no activities scheduled.2 dots: Typically this will include some short walking tours and/or some medium length car/minibus journeys (typically 3-4 hours).
3 dots: This is the standard for most of our cultural tours. It involves city walking, perhaps short walks in rural areas and some medium to long drives (typically 4-8 hours).
4 dots: This will often involve some short hikes or equivalent, as well as some longish drives (typically up to 8 hours) and city walking.
5 dots: Typically this is a hiking or activity-focused itinerary and can be quite strenuous. A good level of fitness is required.
Comfort ratings
1 dot: Basic camping. Shower might not be available every day. Long drives on rough terrain.2 dots: Some camping and very basic hotels. Hot water in most places. Long drives on rough terrain and there may be overnight train journeys.
3 dots: Good 3* hotels, guest houses, homestays and lodges. Hot water always available. There may be occasional long drives on rough terrain. Train travel usually in 2nd class.
4 dots: High standard hotels, heritage properties, luxury camps and lodges. Hot water always available. Majority of travel on good roads. Train travel usually in 1st class.
5 dots: Top-end hotels, typically 5*. Most places will have spa, massage and leisure facilities. Majority of travel on good roads. Train travel would be in 1st class.