When you arrive at Mount Vernon, meet your private guide inside the Ford Orientation Center.
Tour the Mansion with a dedicated guide, learn about the gardens at Mount Vernon and about those who were enslaved at Mount Vernon.
You will also have an opportunity to lay a wreath at the Washington Tomb. Afterward, you are free to continue your time at Mount Vernon on your own with a self-guided visit to the Donald W. Reynolds Museum and Education Center, which features 23 interactive exhibits, galleries and theaters.
When you arrive at Mount Vernon, meet your private guide inside the Ford Orientation Center.
Tour the Mansion with a dedicated guide, learn about the gardens at Mount Vernon and about the enslaved who farmed 3,000 acres.
You will also have an opportunity to lay a wreath at the Washington Tomb. Afterward, you are free to continue your time at Mount Vernon on your own with a self-guided visit to the Donald W. Reynolds Museum and Education Center, which features 23 interactive exhibits, galleries and theaters.
Version 24 – April 15, 2021 14:07
Field
Current Version
Previous Version
Cancellation notes
Cancellations accepted with 5 days' notice.
_
Version 23 – April 15, 2021 14:07
Field
Current Version
Previous Version
Cancellation policy
standard
none
Version 22 – April 15, 2021 14:06
Field
Current Version
Previous Version
Short Description
Take a VIP peek into George Washington’s home as you're led through the mansion by a private guide. During this private walking tour of the mansion and grounds, you'll hear expert commentary about the United States’ first president and his historic estate. This tour includes the opportunity to lay a wreath at the Washington family tomb. Then you may continue on a self-guided tour of the museum.
Flat rate applies for groups of 1 - 10 travelers.
Take a VIP peek into George Washington’s home as you're led through the mansion by a private guide. During this 1-hour private walking tour of the mansion and grounds, you'll hear expert commentary about the United States’ first president and his historic estate. This tour includes the opportunity to lay a wreath at the Washington family tomb. Then you may continue on a self-guided tour of the museum.Flat rate applies for groups of 1 - 10 travelers.
Summary
Get a detailed look at the first president's estate with a private 1.5-hour tour with your own dedicated tour guide.
Get a detailed look at the first president's estate with a private 1-hour tour. Explore areas not open to the public on this behind-the-scenes tour that is tailored to your interests.
Version 20 – April 15, 2021 13:57
Field
Current Version
Previous Version
Booking cutoff
14
_
Cancellation policy
none
standard
Cancellation notes
_
Up to 24 hours before the beginning of the activity: full refund
Less than 24 hours before the beginning of the activity or no-show: no refund
Booking Cutoff Unit
days
minutes
Cancellation Cutoff
5
24
Cancellation Cutoff Unit
days
hours
Version 19 – April 15, 2021 13:55
Field
Current Version
Previous Version
Description
When you arrive at Mount Vernon, meet your private guide inside the Ford Orientation Center.
Tour the Mansion with a dedicated guide, learn about the gardens at Mount Vernon and about the enslaved who farmed 3,000 acres.
You will also have an opportunity to lay a wreath at the Washington Tomb. Afterward, you are free to continue your time at Mount Vernon on your own with a self-guided visit to the Donald W. Reynolds Museum and Education Center, which features 23 interactive exhibits, galleries and theaters.
When you arrive at Mount Vernon, meet your private guide inside the Ford Orientation Center.
Tour the Mansion with a dedicated guide, learn about the gardens at Mount Vernon, and about the enslaved who farmed 3,000 acres.
You will also have an opportunity to lay a wreath at the Washington Tomb. Afterward, you are free to continue your time at Mount Vernon on your own with a self-guided visit to the Donald W. Reynolds Museum and Education Center, which features 23 interactive exhibits, galleries and theaters.
Included
general admission for up to 10 guests, private mansion tour, private guide
general admission for up to 10 guests, private guide
Version 18 – April 15, 2021 13:55
Field
Current Version
Previous Version
Short Description
Take a VIP peek into George Washington’s home as you're led through the mansion by a private guide. During this 1-hour private walking tour of the mansion and grounds, you'll hear expert commentary about the United States’ first president and his historic estate. This tour includes the opportunity to lay a wreath at the Washington family tomb. Then you may continue on a self-guided tour of the museum. Flat rate applies for groups of 1 - 10 travelers.
Take a VIP peek into George Washington’s 21-room residence at Mount Vernon as you're led through the mansion by a private guide. During this 1-hour private walking tour of the mansion and grounds, you'll hear expert commentary about the United States’ first president and his historic estate. This tour includes the opportunity to lay a wreath at the Washington family tomb. Then you may continue on a self-guided tour of the museum. Flat rate applies for groups of 1 - 10 travelers.
Description
When you arrive at Mount Vernon, meet your private guide inside the Ford Orientation Center.
Tour the Mansion with a dedicated guide, learn about the gardens at Mount Vernon, and about the enslaved who farmed 3,000 acres.
You will also have an opportunity to lay a wreath at the Washington Tomb. Afterward, you are free to continue your time at Mount Vernon on your own with a self-guided visit to the Donald W. Reynolds Museum and Education Center, which features 23 interactive exhibits, galleries and theaters.
When you arrive at Mount Vernon, meet your private guide inside the Ford Orientation Center.
Your guide will provide an introduction to the estate tailored to your interests. You'll also take an intimate tour of the 21-room mansion and visit rooms not typically seen by visitors.
Learn about the 18th-century English-style garden overseen by Washington, who had hundreds of native trees and shrubs planted along with produce. If you’d like, visit the Pioneer Farm to learn about the lives of some 100 field slaves who put Washington’s agrarian ideas into practice on the plantation's 3,000 cultivated acres (1,214 hectares).
You will also have an opportunity to lay a wreath at the Washington Tomb. Afterward, you are free to continue your time at Mount Vernon on your own with a self-guided visit to the Donald W. Reynolds Museum and Education Center, which features 23 interactive exhibits, galleries and theaters.
Please note that pricing displayed is per person based on a party of nine individuals.
Version 17 – March 29, 2021 17:19
Field
Current Version
Previous Version
Description
When you arrive at Mount Vernon, meet your private guide inside the Ford Orientation Center.
Your guide will provide an introduction to the estate tailored to your interests. You'll also take an intimate tour of the 21-room mansion and visit rooms not typically seen by visitors.
Learn about the 18th-century English-style garden overseen by Washington, who had hundreds of native trees and shrubs planted along with produce. If you’d like, visit the Pioneer Farm to learn about the lives of some 100 field slaves who put Washington’s agrarian ideas into practice on the plantation's 3,000 cultivated acres (1,214 hectares).
You will also have an opportunity to lay a wreath at the Washington Tomb. Afterward, you are free to continue your time at Mount Vernon on your own with a self-guided visit to the Donald W. Reynolds Museum and Education Center, which features 23 interactive exhibits, galleries and theaters.
Please note that pricing displayed is per person based on a party of nine individuals.
When you arrive at Mount Vernon, meet your private guide inside the Ford Orientation Center.
Your guide will provide an introduction to the estate tailored to your interests. You'll also take an intimate tour of the 21-room mansion and visit rooms not typically seen by visitors.
Learn about the 18th-century English-style garden overseen by Washington, who had hundreds of native trees and shrubs planted along with produce. If you’d like, visit the Pioneer Farm to learn about the lives of some 100 field slaves who put Washington’s agrarian ideas into practice on the plantation's 3,000 cultivated acres (1,214 hectares).
You also have an opportunity to lay a wreath at the Washington Tomb. Afterward, you are free to continue your time at Mount Vernon on your own with a self-guided visit to the Donald W. Reynolds Museum and Education Center, which features 23 interactive exhibits, galleries and theaters.
Please note that pricing displayed is per person based on a party of nine individuals.
Version 16 – March 29, 2021 17:16
Field
Current Version
Previous Version
Summary
Get a detailed look at the first president's estate with a private 1-hour tour. Explore areas not open to the public on this behind-the-scenes tour that is tailored to your interests.
Get a detailed look at the first president's estate with a private tour. Get answers to your questions and explore areas not open to the public.
Version 15 – March 29, 2021 16:13
Field
Current Version
Previous Version
Know Before You Go
all bags and containers larger than 16x16x8 inches are prohibited from entering the property, arrive 15 minutes prior to your tour time, outside food or drinks (except water) are prohibited, plan to spend at least two additional hours at the estate, when you arrive at mount vernon, meet your private guide inside the ford orientation center.
all bags and containers larger than 16x16x8 inches are prohibited from entering the property, arrive 15 minutes prior to your tour time, outside food or drinks (except water) are prohibited, plan to spend at least two additional hours at the estate
Version 14 – March 29, 2021 16:13
Field
Current Version
Previous Version
Description
When you arrive at Mount Vernon, meet your private guide inside the Ford Orientation Center.
Your guide will provide an introduction to the estate tailored to your interests. You'll also take an intimate tour of the 21-room mansion and visit rooms not typically seen by visitors.
Learn about the 18th-century English-style garden overseen by Washington, who had hundreds of native trees and shrubs planted along with produce. If you’d like, visit the Pioneer Farm to learn about the lives of some 100 field slaves who put Washington’s agrarian ideas into practice on the plantation's 3,000 cultivated acres (1,214 hectares).
You also have an opportunity to lay a wreath at the Washington Tomb. Afterward, you are free to continue your time at Mount Vernon on your own with a self-guided visit to the Donald W. Reynolds Museum and Education Center, which features 23 interactive exhibits, galleries and theaters.
Please note that pricing displayed is per person based on a party of nine individuals.
During this 1-hour exploration with a dedicated guide leading the way, you’ll receive a behind-the-scenes look at George Washington’s Mount Vernon that most visitors don't experience.
When you arrive at Mount Vernon, meet your private guide inside the Ford Orientation Center.
Your guide will provide an introduction to the estate tailored to your interests. You'll also take an intimate tour of the 21-room mansion and visit rooms not typically seen by visitors.
Learn about the 18th-century English-style garden overseen by Washington, who had hundreds of native trees and shrubs planted along with produce. If you’d like, visit the Pioneer Farm to learn about the lives of some 100 field slaves who put Washington’s agrarian ideas into practice on the plantation's 3,000 cultivated acres (1,214 hectares).
On your own, you may take a shuttle to the fully functioning merchant gristmill and distillery to discover Washington's business enterprises. The gristmill was operational for the creation of flour made for overseas markets, the cornmeal that fed the estate’s slave population and paid staff, and whiskey that provided Washington with plenty of profits.
You also have an opportunity to lay a wreath at the Washington Tomb. Afterward, you are free to continue your time at Mount Vernon on your own with a self-guided visit to the Donald W. Reynolds Museum and Education Center, which features 23 interactive exhibits, galleries and theaters.
Please note that pricing displayed is per person based on a party of nine individuals.
Version 13 – March 29, 2021 16:11
Field
Current Version
Previous Version
Active
true
false
Version 12 – March 29, 2021 16:10
Field
Current Version
Previous Version
Know Before You Go
all bags and containers larger than 16x16x8 inches are prohibited from entering the property, arrive 15 minutes prior to your tour time, outside food or drinks (except water) are prohibited, plan to spend at least two additional hours at the estate
_
Version 11 – March 29, 2021 16:09
Field
Current Version
Previous Version
Item Requirements
validpassport
_
Version 10 – March 29, 2021 16:08
Field
Current Version
Previous Version
Voucher info
_
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
Item Requirements
_
--- {}
Max Group Size
10
_
Version 9 – March 29, 2021 16:08
Field
Current Version
Previous Version
Voucher info
_
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
Item Requirements
_
--- {}
Max Group Size
10
_
Version 8 – March 29, 2021 16:07
Field
Current Version
Previous Version
Summary
Get a detailed look at the first president's estate with a private tour. Get answers to your questions and explore areas not open to the public.
_
Version 7 – March 29, 2021 16:06
Field
Current Version
Previous Version
Included
general admission for up to 10 guests, private guide
private guide
Version 6 – March 29, 2021 16:05
Field
Current Version
Previous Version
Description
During this 1-hour exploration with a dedicated guide leading the way, you’ll receive a behind-the-scenes look at George Washington’s Mount Vernon that most visitors don't experience.
When you arrive at Mount Vernon, meet your private guide inside the Ford Orientation Center.
Your guide will provide an introduction to the estate tailored to your interests. You'll also take an intimate tour of the 21-room mansion and visit rooms not typically seen by visitors.
Learn about the 18th-century English-style garden overseen by Washington, who had hundreds of native trees and shrubs planted along with produce. If you’d like, visit the Pioneer Farm to learn about the lives of some 100 field slaves who put Washington’s agrarian ideas into practice on the plantation's 3,000 cultivated acres (1,214 hectares).
On your own, you may take a shuttle to the fully functioning merchant gristmill and distillery to discover Washington's business enterprises. The gristmill was operational for the creation of flour made for overseas markets, the cornmeal that fed the estate’s slave population and paid staff, and whiskey that provided Washington with plenty of profits.
You also have an opportunity to lay a wreath at the Washington Tomb. Afterward, you are free to continue your time at Mount Vernon on your own with a self-guided visit to the Donald W. Reynolds Museum and Education Center, which features 23 interactive exhibits, galleries and theaters.
Please note that pricing displayed is per person based on a party of nine individuals.
When you arrive at Mount Vernon, head to the Ford Orientation Center to meet your private guide. Your tour will be tailored to your interests and questions.
Your guide will provide an introduction to the estate while escorting you through the garden and grounds. You'll also take an intimate tour of the 21-room mansion and visit areas not typically seen by visitors.
Learn about the 18th-century English-style garden overseen by Washington, who had hundreds of native trees and shrubs planted along with produce. If you’d like, visit the Pioneer Farm to learn about the lives of some 100 field slaves who put Washington’s agrarian ideas into practice on the plantation's 3,000 cultivated acres (1,214 hectares).
On your own, you may take a shuttle to the fully functioning merchant gristmill and distillery to discover Washington's business enterprises. The gristmill was operational for the creation of flour made for overseas markets, the cornmeal that fed the estate’s slave population and paid staff, and whiskey that provided Washington with plenty of profits.
You also have an opportunity to lay a wreath, if you wish, at the Washington Tomb — a stirring conclusion to your tour. Afterward, you are free to continue your time at Mount Vernon on your own with a self-guided visit to the Donald W. Reynolds Museum and Education Center, which features 23 interactive exhibits, galleries and theaters.
Please note that pricing displayed is per person based on a party of nine individuals.
Version 5 – March 29, 2021 16:04
Field
Current Version
Previous Version
Description
When you arrive at Mount Vernon, head to the Ford Orientation Center to meet your private guide. Your tour will be tailored to your interests and questions.
Your guide will provide an introduction to the estate while escorting you through the garden and grounds. You'll also take an intimate tour of the 21-room mansion and visit areas not typically seen by visitors.
Learn about the 18th-century English-style garden overseen by Washington, who had hundreds of native trees and shrubs planted along with produce. If you’d like, visit the Pioneer Farm to learn about the lives of some 100 field slaves who put Washington’s agrarian ideas into practice on the plantation's 3,000 cultivated acres (1,214 hectares).
On your own, you may take a shuttle to the fully functioning merchant gristmill and distillery to discover Washington's business enterprises. The gristmill was operational for the creation of flour made for overseas markets, the cornmeal that fed the estate’s slave population and paid staff, and whiskey that provided Washington with plenty of profits.
You also have an opportunity to lay a wreath, if you wish, at the Washington Tomb — a stirring conclusion to your tour. Afterward, you are free to continue your time at Mount Vernon on your own with a self-guided visit to the Donald W. Reynolds Museum and Education Center, which features 23 interactive exhibits, galleries and theaters.
Please note that pricing displayed is per person based on a party of nine individuals.
When you arrive at Mount Vernon, head to the Ford Orientation Center to meet your private guide and discuss whatever questions and curiosities you have. The advantage of a private tour is that the itinerary and commentary can be tailored to fit your particular interests.
Begin your 1-hour tour with an introductory film that gives you an overview of pivotal events in George Washington's life. Alternatively, your guide can provide an introduction while escorting you through the garden and grounds of the iconic estate. You'll also take an intimate tour of the 21-room mansion, including areas not typically seen by visitors.
Learn about the 18th-century English-style garden overseen by Washington, who had hundreds of native trees and shrubs planted along with produce. If you’d like, visit the Pioneer Farm to learn about the lives of some 100 field slaves who put Washington’s agrarian ideas into practice on the plantation's 3,000 cultivated acres (1,214 hectares).
On your own, you may take a shuttle to the fully functioning merchant gristmill and distillery to discover Washington's business enterprises. The gristmill was operational for the creation of flour made for overseas markets, the cornmeal that fed the estate’s slave population and paid staff, and whiskey that provided Washington with plenty of profits.
You also have an opportunity to lay a wreath, if you wish, at the Washington Tomb — a stirring conclusion to your tour. Afterward, you are free to continue your time at Mount Vernon on your own with a self-guided visit to the Donald W. Reynolds Museum and Education Center, which features 23 interactive exhibits, galleries and theaters.
Please note that pricing displayed is per person based on a party of nine individuals.
Version 4 – March 29, 2021 16:02
Field
Current Version
Previous Version
Description
When you arrive at Mount Vernon, head to the Ford Orientation Center to meet your private guide and discuss whatever questions and curiosities you have. The advantage of a private tour is that the itinerary and commentary can be tailored to fit your particular interests.
Begin your 1-hour tour with an introductory film that gives you an overview of pivotal events in George Washington's life. Alternatively, your guide can provide an introduction while escorting you through the garden and grounds of the iconic estate. You'll also take an intimate tour of the 21-room mansion, including areas not typically seen by visitors.
Learn about the 18th-century English-style garden overseen by Washington, who had hundreds of native trees and shrubs planted along with produce. If you’d like, visit the Pioneer Farm to learn about the lives of some 100 field slaves who put Washington’s agrarian ideas into practice on the plantation's 3,000 cultivated acres (1,214 hectares).
On your own, you may take a shuttle to the fully functioning merchant gristmill and distillery to discover Washington's business enterprises. The gristmill was operational for the creation of flour made for overseas markets, the cornmeal that fed the estate’s slave population and paid staff, and whiskey that provided Washington with plenty of profits.
You also have an opportunity to lay a wreath, if you wish, at the Washington Tomb — a stirring conclusion to your tour. Afterward, you are free to continue your time at Mount Vernon on your own with a self-guided visit to the Donald W. Reynolds Museum and Education Center, which features 23 interactive exhibits, galleries and theaters.
Please note that pricing displayed is per person based on a party of nine individuals.
When you arrive at Mount Vernon, head to the Ford Orientation Center to meet your private guide and discuss whatever questions and curiosities you have. The advantage of a private tour is that the itinerary and commentary can be tailored to fit your particular interests.
Begin your 1-hour tour with an introductory film that gives you an overview of pivotal events in George Washington's life. Alternatively, your guide can provide an introduction while escorting you through the garden and grounds of the iconic estate. You'll also take an intimate tour of the resplendent 21-room mansion, including areas not typically seen by visitors.
Learn about the 18th-century English-style garden overseen by Washington, who had hundreds of native trees and shrubs planted along with produce. If you’d like, visit the Pioneer Farm to learn about the lives of some 100 field slaves who put Washington’s agrarian ideas into practice on the plantation's 3,000 cultivated acres (1,214 hectares).
On your own, you may take a shuttle to the fully functioning merchant gristmill and distillery to discover Washington's business enterprises. The gristmill was operational for the creation of flour made for overseas markets, the cornmeal that fed the estate’s slave population and paid staff, and whiskey that provided Washington with plenty of profits.
You also have an opportunity to lay a wreath, if you wish, at the Washington Tomb — a stirring conclusion to your tour. Afterward, you are free to continue your time at Mount Vernon on your own with a self-guided visit to the Donald W. Reynolds Museum and Education Center, which features 23 interactive exhibits, galleries and theaters.
Please note that pricing displayed is per person based on a party of nine individuals.
Version 3 – March 29, 2021 16:01
Field
Current Version
Previous Version
Short Description
Take a VIP peek into George Washington’s 21-room residence at Mount Vernon as you're led through the mansion by a private guide. During this 1-hour private walking tour of the mansion and grounds, you'll hear expert commentary about the United States’ first president and his historic estate. This tour includes the opportunity to lay a wreath at the Washington family tomb. Then you may continue on a self-guided tour of the museum. Flat rate applies for groups of 1 - 10 travelers.
Take a VIP peek into George Washington’s 21-room residence at Mount Vernon as you're led through the mansion by a private guide. During this 1-hour private walking tour of the mansion and grounds, including the garden, gristmill, distillery and plantation, you'll hear expert commentary about the United States’ first president and his historic estate. This tour includes the opportunity to lay a wreath at the Washington family tomb, and then you may continue on a self-guided tour of the museum. Flat rate applies for groups of 1 - 10 travelers.
Version 1 – November 20, 2020 03:34
Field
Current Version
Previous Version
Short Description
Take a VIP peek into George Washington’s 21-room residence at Mount Vernon as you're led through the mansion by a private guide. During this 1-hour private walking tour of the mansion and grounds, including the garden, gristmill, distillery and plantation, you'll hear expert commentary about the United States’ first president and his historic estate. This tour includes the opportunity to lay a wreath at the Washington family tomb, and then you may continue on a self-guided tour of the museum. Flat rate applies for groups of 1 - 10 travelers.
Take a VIP peek into George Washington’s 21-room residence at Mount Vernon as you're led through the mansion by a private guide. During this 1-hour private walking tour of the mansion and grounds, including the garden, gristmill, distillery and plantation, you'll hear expert commentary about the United States’ first president and his historic estate. This tour includes the opportunity to lay a wreath at the Washington family tomb, and then you may continue on a self-guided tour of the museum. Flat rate applies for groups of 1 - 10 travelers.
Description
When you arrive at Mount Vernon, head to the Ford Orientation Center to meet your private guide and discuss whatever questions and curiosities you have. The advantage of a private tour is that the itinerary and commentary can be tailored to fit your particular interests.
Begin your 1-hour tour with an introductory film that gives you an overview of pivotal events in George Washington's life. Alternatively, your guide can provide an introduction while escorting you through the garden and grounds of the iconic estate. You'll also take an intimate tour of the resplendent 21-room mansion, including areas not typically seen by visitors.
Learn about the 18th-century English-style garden overseen by Washington, who had hundreds of native trees and shrubs planted along with produce. If you’d like, visit the Pioneer Farm to learn about the lives of some 100 field slaves who put Washington’s agrarian ideas into practice on the plantation's 3,000 cultivated acres (1,214 hectares).
On your own, you may take a shuttle to the fully functioning merchant gristmill and distillery to discover Washington's business enterprises. The gristmill was operational for the creation of flour made for overseas markets, the cornmeal that fed the estate’s slave population and paid staff, and whiskey that provided Washington with plenty of profits.
You also have an opportunity to lay a wreath, if you wish, at the Washington Tomb — a stirring conclusion to your tour. Afterward, you are free to continue your time at Mount Vernon on your own with a self-guided visit to the Donald W. Reynolds Museum and Education Center, which features 23 interactive exhibits, galleries and theaters.
Please note that pricing displayed is per person based on a party of nine individuals.
When you arrive at Mount Vernon, head to the Ford Orientation Center to meet your private guide and discuss whatever questions and curiosities you have. The advantage of a private tour is that the itinerary and commentary can be tailored to fit your particular interests.
Begin your 1-hour tour with an introductory film that gives you an overview of pivotal events in George Washington's life. Alternatively, your guide can provide an introduction while escorting you through the garden and grounds of the iconic estate. You'll also take an intimate tour of the resplendent 21-room mansion, including areas not typically seen by visitors.
Learn about the 18th-century English-style garden overseen by Washington, who had hundreds of native trees and shrubs planted along with produce. If you’d like, visit the Pioneer Farm to learn about the lives of some 100 field slaves who put Washington’s agrarian ideas into practice on the plantation's 3,000 cultivated acres (1,214 hectares).
On your own, you may take a shuttle to the fully functioning merchant gristmill and distillery to discover Washington's business enterprises. The gristmill was operational for the creation of flour made for overseas markets, the cornmeal that fed the estate’s slave population and paid staff, and whiskey that provided Washington with plenty of profits.
You also have an opportunity to lay a wreath, if you wish, at the Washington Tomb — a stirring conclusion to your tour. Afterward, you are free to continue your time at Mount Vernon on your own with a self-guided visit to the Donald W. Reynolds Museum and Education Center, which features 23 interactive exhibits, galleries and theaters.
Please note that pricing displayed is per person based on a party of nine individuals.
Additional Info
Not wheelchair accessible
Not wheelchair accessible
Duration unit
minutes
_
Cancellation notes
Up to 24 hours before the beginning of the activity: full refund
Less than 24 hours before the beginning of the activity or no-show: no refund
Up to 24 hours before the beginning of the activity: full refund
Less than 24 hours before the beginning of the activity or no-show: no refund