Icons 2023

What is the dress code?

Business casual / smart casual will be appropriate for most events and activities. However, some excursion options are active (will be listed on agenda) so you’ll want to bring appropriate clothing if you’d like to participate in those. Please pack cocktail attire for the gala.

Do I have to travel on the event dates? 

No, you are more than welcome to book your own flights on your preferred date. We understand many people will want to extend and have their own holiday before or after the event. Flight reimbursement details can be found on the about page. Speak to your local GM or support team for the reimbursement amount for your country.

If you are not flying into Budapest and out of Vienna on the main dates, you’ll need to make your own way to/from the port, which will be centrally located (details also on about page).

We also have some fantastic pre and post-event offers from our partners, which you can view here.

What is the weather going to be like?

It will be chilly! Make sure you pack layers and bring a warm coat. Average temperatures are as follows:

Budapest – High 9°C Low 4°C / High 48°F Low 37°F

Bratislava – High 8°C Low 2°C / High 47°F Low 35°F

Vienna – High 8°C Low 3°C / High 47°F Low 36°F

Do I need a visa?

Australian agents – No visa is required for these countries
New Zealand agents - No visa is required for these countries
Canadian agents - No visa is required for these countries
US agents - No visa is required for these countries
South African agents - A visa is required for Austria, Hungary, Slovakia

Please note, you are responsible for obtaining your own visas. FCTG Independent will NOT be responsible if you do not apply for a visa and are denied entry.

Do I need travel insurance?

We highly recommend taking out travel insurance for the trip. Please contact your preferred insurance provider.

Will we have to pay for anything on the trip?

Independent Icons cruise on Uniworld is all inclusive! Drinks, accommodation, meals and activities are covered. The only thing you’ll have to pay for will be souvenirs or drinks or food you purchase outside of scheduled events and off the ship (e.g., out at night in Vienna or Budapest as we have overnights).

Do I have to bring a guest?

Not at all. It’s completely up to you. However, if you do bring a guest, please note that they must be aged 18 or above.

Do my guest and I have to share a stateroom?

Yes, if you bring a guest, you must share a stateroom with them, but you can choose whether you have one or two beds during registration.

Can I bring my team?

If you choose to bring someone from your team as your guest, you’re more than welcome to, but please note that we are limited to one consultant + guest per agency. These invitations are NOT transferrable and only the owner of the agency who is issued the invitation will be able to attend. Unfortunately, if you are unable to attend you cannot pass on the invitation to a colleague or staff member.

Do I have to book excursions in advance?

No, you can sign up while on board.

Can I claim expenses as a tax deduction for costs (e.g. meals, taxi fares etc.) while travelling to/from FCTG Independent Icons?

You may be eligible to claim these expenses as a tax deduction on your personal income tax return – please ask your tax agent/accountant for further details.

If you run in to any problems with law enforcement, you must contact the FCTG Independent event organisers immediately to ensure you get timely legal support.

It is your responsibility to ensure you understand and respect the local laws when travelling abroad. Please refer to the below government websites for local laws and penalties in Indonesia, for other nation's please seek out your government's advice.

Australia: Smart Traveller
US: U.S. Department of State
New Zealand: Smart Travel NZ
Canada: Travel.gc.ca
South Africa: Dirco.gov.za 

FCTG Independent will ensure to the best of its abilities and in accordance with local laws that it meets all reasonable health and safety requirements as it relates to COVID-19 and public safety. However, all attendees understand that attending FCTG Independent Icons is at their risk, including without limitation to contracting COVID-19 and/or being subject to government restrictions or quarantine.

If you experience any COVID-19 symptoms once you have arrived in Budapest, it is your responsibility to isolate and contact the FCTG Independent team, who will organise for you to take a rapid antigen test. If you receive a positive result, you will be transferred to a quarantine hotel for a minimum of 5 days as per the local guidelines (subject to Government guideline amendments). Different countries have varying requirements for re-entry regarding COVID-19 and the appropriate arrangements will be made depending on your nation. The Global Gathering Team will make all the necessary arrangements to extend your stay in Bali and will cover all the costs for accommodation, flights and F&B during this period.

Please note: Local COVID-19 guidelines can change at any time and FCTG Independent will provide arrangements in line with Government requirements at the time.

FAQS