RECEPTIONIST: Mediterranean Voyages. How may I help you?

CUSTOMER: Hi. My name is Alex, and I’m calling to inquire about your Greek islands tours.

RECEPTIONIST: Lovely. We have several different tours. Can you tell me which islands in particular you are most interested in?

CUSTOMER: Hmm... Actually, I’m not very familiar with the islands. But I did hear about some volcanoes that sounded interesting...

RECEPTIONIST: Ah, yes. You mean the volcanoes on Santorini Island. Our Santorini Island tour is perhaps our most popular package.

CUSTOMER: And that tour includes only one island?

RECEPTIONIST: Yes, it leaves from the Athens port and goes directly to Santorini. It’s a large island, so there is plenty to do there.

CUSTOMER: OK. So, how long is that tour?

RECEPTIONIST: It takes five days and four nights in total. One day for travel each way there and back, and then three days and four nights on the island itself.

CUSTOMER: Well, it’s a little longer than I was planning for, but I suppose that’s all right. Does the package include both transport and accommodations?

RECEPTIONIST: Yes of course. You are taken there by cruise ship and then put up in a lovely hotel in the island’s tourist hub. Guests have the option of shared or private rooms, and they all have beautiful views of the sea.

CUSTOMER: I see. Does this tour run year-round?

RECEPTIONIST: I’m afraid not. The cruise ship only sails during the peak tourist season, which lasts from April until October.

CUSTOMER: That’s quite all right. I’m planning to go in July.

RECEPTIONIST: Oh, that’s a wonderful time of year to be out on the sea. It’s sunny every day and the sea is warm enough to swim in.

CUSTOMER: That sounds great.

RECEPTIONIST: I especially recommend Faistos beach. Not many people know about that little jewel on the south side of the island.

CUSTOMER: What beach?

RECEPTIONIST: Faistos. F-A-I-S-T-O-S. I promise you’ll love it.

CUSTOMER: I appreciate the suggestion.

CUSTOMER: Now, I’d like to know what else is included in the cost of the tour.

RECEPTIONIST: Sure. The first day you arrive, you are offered a tour of the island’s major historical sites free of charge. If you’re more interested in learning about the volcanoes, we can arrange a private guide to take you there, although it costs an additional $50 or so.

CUSTOMER: That’s a fair enough price.

RECEPTIONIST: But you know, you can also choose to wander by yourself. There are plenty of good hiking trails. Or you can take a taxi or bus to most anywhere on the island.

CUSTOMER: All right. I’ll think about it. So, how much does this tour package cost in total?

RECEPTIONIST: You are looking at about $550 for the basic package, plus any extra services or activities you select.

CUSTOMER: OK. I think I’d like to reserve a spot for myself for the first week of July, then.

RECEPTIONIST: Brilliant. Will you be coming alone?

CUSTOMER: Yes, just me this time.

RECEPTIONIST: Sounds good. But I do want to let you know that we have a 30-day cancellation policy for full refunds. If you tell us any later than that, I’m afraid you’ll have to forfeit 60% of the package costs. 

CUSTOMER: Good to know. 

RECEPTIONIST: So... In order to complete your reservation, I will need a 50% deposit up front.

CUSTOMER: Shall I give you my credit card information? Or do I need to make a wire transfer?

RECEPTIONIST: A credit card will be just fine. I’m going to transfer you to our accounts department. You’ll need to give them your booking reference. It’s E-V-9-6.

CUSTOMER: E-V-9-6. Got it.

RECEPTIONIST: And if you have any questions, feel free to call me. Just ask for Linda.

CUSTOMER: Thank you Linda. You’ve been most helpful.

RECEPTIONIST: My pleasure indeed. So just wait on the line while I transfer you. If it doesn’t go through, call us right back.

CUSTOMER: Will do. Thanks.

Answer

1. Santorini

2. five

3. four

4. October

5. $550

6. Cancellation policy

7. 50%

8. By credit card

9. Accounts department

10. call back