In order to decide which company is most likely to offer the service that you require, you might want to raise some of the following issues before parting with any cash.

Is the money that you pay held in a trust until your return, or is the company bonded to an organisation that protects your money? In the event that the company runs into financial difficulty - or should you make a claim for compensation - a bond or trust will increase the chance of a full or partial refund.

What training has the leader of your trip received? What relevant experience do they have? Do they speak your language or do you speak theirs? It is essential that leaders of trips above 25OOm have an understanding of the risks posed by altitude-related illnesses.

What arrangements (including communications) are in place for an evacuation of a client or member of staff in the event of an emergency? Will you be expected to pay up-front for a rescue, or will the operator liaise with your insurance company on your behalf?

Are all staff (including porters) adequately clothed, equipped and insured?

What is the minimum group size, and how soon before departure might the company cancel the trip if there are insufficient clients?

What is the maximum group size, and does the company guarantee that additional clients will not be attached to the party at the last minute?

Does the company feel that it has a responsibility to protect the environment? Do they have a written environmental policy? Do they adhere to it? Can you see a copy of it?

Can you visit the company's offices to discuss the trip with a member of staff before parting with any money?

Remember, reputable companies will always be happy to answer these and any other questions that you might have. Further information on good practice for tour operators is available from:

Tourism Concern
www.tourismconcern.org.uk

The International Porter Protection Group
www.ippg.net

This advice is taken from "The Mountain Travellers Handbook" by Paul Deegan, which contains essential advice for anyone travelling into the mountains outside of the UK, be they backpackers, trekkers or mountaineers.

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