Terms & Conditions
1. GENERAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS Passenger General Information, Terms and Conditions
Prices on Related Flyers
All prices quoted on website, related flyers and any additional literature are quoted in U.S. dollars and based on airfares, land rates and exchanges rates in effect at the time of printing and booking and based on group rates of a minimum of at least 25-30 passengers. Additional surcharges may apply. All prices including any airfares may change without notice prior to departure due to currency fluctuations, fuel prices, additional taxes and /or unforeseen economic circumstances. (i.e.: fluctuation of currency and rate of exchange.
Passports, Travel Documents and Visas
A VALID US passport is required of all US Citizens to travel abroad. If you do not have a valid passport please apply for one as soon as possible. Passports MUST be valid at least for 6 months after return date coming back into the Unites States. Most countries do NOT require US citizens to obtain visas for entry. However, when a visa is required, it is the passengers’ responsibility to obtain the correct visa form the country to be visited. Please consult with the embassy or consulate for visa requirements. Cara Group Travel or any of its providers/suppliers assumes no responsibility for passport or visa requirements.
Accommodations
Accommodations and trip pricing are based on two ( 2 ) persons sharing a twin-bedded room, with private bath and/or shower. A single room may be provided for single occupancy. If available a single is at an additional supplement. While private, a single rooms are often smaller than twin bedded rooms. In additional rooms are assigned upon arrival based on current availability and may vary in size, amenities and location. If a passenger does not have a traveling companion, then that passenger will be responsible for the single supplement fee. Europe hotels are not as is known in America. Twin –bedded rooms are in most cases one large DOUBLE bed. QUEEN or KING beds are available in some hotels can be requested but not guaranteed. Twin beds are usually 2 separate mattresses atop a single box frame. A Double bed is one mattress atop a single box frame.
Hotel(s) /Lodging and Accommodations are subject to changes( s ) and location at the discretion of the Tour Operator.
Private Rooms and Single Supplements
On Group Travel a limited number of single rooms are available (on a request basis to the hotel(s) s at a supplement price. Single rooms provide privacy, but in sone hotels may be smaller in size than a twin or double room. We do not passenger “match” for singles wishing to travel with a roommate.
Meals
Meals are provided based on pre-determined agreement. Most Europe hotels include breakfast (of some type) but not American breakfasts as we know. Meals can be served at the hotels’ dining rooms (dinners) or an outside venue, as determined and contracted. Beverages are usually additional with hotel group dinners, however can be included if pre-arranged with Tour Operator.
Sightseeing
Ground transportation is provided by air-conditioned motor coaches, and any other conveyance as specified in tour program. Seat rotation is not enforced, but courtesy is asked that passengers change their seat(s) daily. During local National Holidays certain facilities such as museums, castles etc may be closed and also stores for shopping. Alternatives may be offered. Changes in the itinerary may be necessary. Your local manager (host-escort) will advise. There also may be optional tours offered to complement the excursion. These are strictly optional.
Extensions and Deviations
The tour is fully customized. Extensions or deviations at the beginning or end of the tour package are subject to any additional costs that may be incurred for airfares, hotels, private transfers, tours etc.
Airline Seating
There is NO advance seat selection for groups. Early check-in is ABSOLUTELY necessary to secure seats with travel companions and any with SPECIAL NEEDS. Due to new stringent security screening, it is advisable to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours prior to flight time. Seating is solely under the control of the airline!
Documents and Tickets
All documents and air tickets (if included) are issued upon final payment. Document packets are mailed to approximately 2-3 weeks prior to departures. Documents may be given to the GROUP ORGANIZER to disburse to their group.
Baggage
Baggage requirements are determined by the airlines and change constantly. One large luggage piece per person will be accommodated on the motor coach. Weight limits are currently 50 lbs. Per piece and not to exceed 62 “ in size. ( h-w-d ). Please be aware that coaches are not equipped to take extra luggage. Day to day carry on bags that you may want to use on the coach have to fit underneath the seat in front or in the small overhead bins.
Cancellations and Refunds
Cancellation schedule is outlined on each individual groups agreement.
If a participant(s) finds it necessary to cancel, but is able to obtain a replacement(s) passenger(s) the “name change” will be done, providing the “name change “ is allowed by the airline , or if land –only by the foreign tour company. A name change fee of $100.00 per change will be charged plus any additional fees required by the land operator or airline.
Travel Insurance
Travel (trip) insurance is ALWAYS optional but strongly recommended. An application will be sent to participants along with a waiver for signature if the purchase of trip insurance is declined. No documents or tickets are issued without insurance or waiver!
Your cancelled check is to be accepted as confirmation of your participation, and no further billing will be forthcoming. Please follow payment schedule as outlined on your particular group’s flyer.
Not Included
Airport taxes, border taxes, port taxes, fuel surcharges and items not listed on each program such as meals, beverages, mini-bar items used, and items of personal nature , excess luggage allowances, laundry, room service, travel insurance, passport and visa costs, shore excursions , any incurred medical costs and replacement of items forgotten or stolen while on the tour and gratuities to tour guides and escorts, local guides and drivers.
Responsibility Clause
Tour participants understand that they have no claim against Cara Group Travel for any delay or damage to or loss of property or baggage or injury to or death of persons due to any neglect or willful act of a direct air carrier, hotel , bus company, steamship or cruise company, railroad, transportation company or service company of any kind, or any other person or persons rendering any of the services being offered in connection with these tours. Further, Cara Group Travel and its agent(s) has no ownership interests whatsoever in any hotel, restaurant, bus company, or transportation or service company of any kind outside the USA. Cara Group Travel and its overseas representatives reserve the right without notice to change, amend or cancel any part or all of the tour and to make such changes as may be necessary. Cara Group Travel acts only as agents in securing hotels, transportation and other travel services, and in no event shall Cara Group Travel be liable in the event of any failure by any person or company to render any transportation, lodging or other travel services to be provided on the tour but will assist to resolve the situation. Cara Group Travel and its suppliers, contracted for services reserve the right to refuse to accept or retain any person whose behavior is deemed likely to affect the smooth operation of the tour. There shall be no refund or compensation for any matters arising.
2. AIRFARE TERMS AND CONDITIONS
Notice to Passengers
All airfares are subject to availability at time of booking and are not guaranteed until purchased and the e-tickets have been issued.
Airfares may change without notice prior to e-ticket issuance. Fares may not be available on all flights and/or travel dates while certain fares may only be available for new bookings.
Fares are inclusive of government taxes and fees, including, without limitation, Passenger Facility Charges, September 11th Security Fees, Federal Segment Taxes for domestic US travel, US Arrival/Departure Taxes for international travel; US government excise tax for Alaska and Hawaii travel, and other governments’ fees and taxes for international travel.
Taxes and fees are subject to change as required by law or exchange rate if collected in a foreign currency. Full fare price, including all applicable taxes and fees, must be paid at the time of purchase. Taxes and fees not collected on the e-ticket (for example, a departure tax collected at an airport payable directly to a government official) are not included in the fare and must be paid directly to the relevant authority.
Cara Group Travel and its agents endeavor to secure the best available airfare, suitable for your travel requirements, based on availability at the time of booking, accessible sources of information and knowledge of agents involved.
In light of the deregulation of airline fares, this agency cannot guarantee that the fare indicated on an e-ticket will be the lowest possible fare at departure. Please contact Cara Group Travel before departure if you wish to recheck any newly published fare, that may correspond with your travel requirements. Please note that cancellation or change of reservation fees may apply to your existing e-tickets.
Please check your airline e-ticket and reservation when you receive it and contact us immediately if you have any questions. The retention of e-tickets, reservations, or bookings after issuance shall constitute acceptance of all the provisions in the conditions listed hereto as well as those terms and conditions set down in the announcements and circulars of the airline.
Most discount and promotional airfares have certain restrictions, including but not limited to, being fully non-refundable and/or having change of reservation fees attached to them.
Some fares are subject to date and time of travel restrictions and many fares also require minimum and/or maximum stays to qualify for them. If you need to cancel or change your e-ticket reservation, please contact us immediately but no later than prior to the time of departure of the next scheduled flight. Failure to contact us prior to a scheduled departure (if you ‘no-show’ for a flight) will result in the forfeiture of the e-ticket value as well as the cancellation of all downline bookings for that e-ticket reservation.
Proof of identification is required for commercial air travel. For domestic travel in the USA, a valid government issued photo ID (such as a driver’s license) is required. For international travel, a signed, valid passport is required for each person, including children. Additionally, some destinations may require a visa to enter. It is the ultimate responsibility of the person traveling to ensure he has all the necessary travel documents to complete his journey.
For all domestic travel within the USA, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires us to submit the passenger’s full name and date of birth at time of booking. For all international travel originating in, terminating in, or transiting via the USA, the TSA requires each person’s full name, date of birth, passport number, passport date of issue and issuing authority before an e-ticket can be issued.
The TSA mandates the each e-ticket reservation match exactly with the valid form of identification used at time of travel. Thus, please ensure you supply us with your full legal name as it is appears on your photo ID or passport.
Any personally identifiable information we collect from you is subject to our Privacy Policy.
Please check-in at least 60 minutes prior to scheduled departure for domestic flights and at least 120 minutes prior to scheduled departure for international flights. Failure to check-in in a timely manner may result in the airline denying you boarding and forfeiture of your e-ticket value.
Some e-tickets include checked baggage in the airfare and some do not include any checked baggage allowance. Please consult one of our agents to verify how much, if any, checked luggage you are permitted with your airfare purchase.
Cara Group Travel reserves the right to charge processing fees in the event of refunds, cancellations and/or special services rendered.
3. CARA GROUP TRAVEL DISCLAIMER
Disclaimer of Liability
Cara Group Travel is acting as an agent for suppliers in selling travel-related services, or in accepting reservations or bookings for services that are not directly supplied by this travel agency (such as air and ground transportation, hotel accommodations, meals, tours, cruises, etc.). This agency, therefore, shall not be responsible for breach of contract of any intentional or careless actions or omissions on part of such suppliers, which result in any loss, damage, delay, or injury to you or your travel companions or group members. Unless the term “guaranteed” is specifically stated in writing on your tickets, invoice, or reservation itinerary, we do not guarantee any of such suppliers’ rates, bookings, reservations, connections, scheduling, or handling of personal effects.
Cara Group Travel shall not be responsible for any injuries, damages, or losses caused to any traveler in connection with terrorist activities, social or labor unrest, mechanical or construction failures or difficulties, diseases, local laws, climactic conditions, criminal acts or abnormal conditions or developments, or any other actions, omissions, or conditions outside of its control.
Traveler assumes complete and full responsibility for, and hereby releases Cara Group Travel from any duty of, checking and verifying any and all passport, visa, vaccination, or other entry requirements of each destination, and all safety or security conditions at such destinations, during the length of the proposed travel.
By embarking upon this travel, the traveler voluntarily assumes all risks involved in such travel, whether expected or unexpected. Traveler is hereby warned of such risks, and is advised to obtain appropriate insurance coverage against them. Traveler’s retention of tickets, reservations, or bookings after issuance shall constitute consent to the above, and an agreement on his part to convey the contents hereto to his travel companions or group members.
For information concerning possible dangers at international destinations, contact the Travel Advisory Section of the US Department of State at +1 202 647 5225
For medical information, call the Center for Disease Control’s International Travelers’ Hotline at +1 404 332 4559
RATE GUARANTEE, TERMS & DEADLINES Paying Participants
Initial Deposit
In order to secure space on the trip, a $500.00 deposit is required at the time of booking. This deposit is non-refundable once paid.
Interim Deposit
In order to secure your group air block, an interim deposit of up to $1000.00 may be required 120 days prior to departure date.
Final Payment
Final payment for all portions on the package outlined above must be paid in full 90 days prior to each tour. Failure to pay in full by this date may result in certain services not being available. Those who sign up past the final payment due date are required to pay the full trip amount at the time of booking.
Deviations
Any changes and/or significant modifications to your trip package 0 – 60 days prior to your tour departure date will incur a $50 change fee (plus the cost of any additional items) and will result in the delay of your travel documents.
Land Only Participants
If you are a LAND only participant it is your responsibility to send a copy of your Air itinerary/Confirmation so that the tour director can keep track of your arrival and departure on land and make sure you are where you need to be. If your flights deviate from the group’s flights, private transfers are subject to charge.
Travel Insurance
Travel Insurance is highly recommended. We offer Travel Guard Insurance at competitive group rates. You can purchase travel insurance within 14 days of making your deposit on the tour.
Travel Documents
You can expect your final travel documents three weeks prior to your departure date unless otherwise noted.
Mobility
It is your responsibility to make Cara Group Travel aware of any mobility issues you may have that could impact your ability to participate in the tour.
Cancellation Policy
AIR Cancellation
From 100 to 91days prior to departure: Penalty of 150 USD per cancelled seat.
From 90 days prior to departure: Penalty of 100% of the fare.
After air ticket is issued, it is non-refundable.
Any changes after ticketed will incur a ticketing fee.
LAND Cancellation
Initial deposit will be non-refundable once paid.
From 61 to 90 days prior to departure: $250 per person after deposit.
From 60 to 30 days prior to departure: 50% penalty.
From 0-29 days prior to departure: 100% penalty.
Unforeseen Events
If for any reason beyond Cara Group Travel’s control, but limited to strike, labor disputes, accident, act of war, act of God, fire, flood or other emergency conditions, Cara Group Travel or one of its suppliers is unable to perform its obligation under this agreement, such non-performance is excused and Cara Group Travel and or suppliers may terminate the agreement without further liability of any nature, upon return of deposits paid. In no event shall Cara Group Travel and or suppliers be liable for consequential damages of any nature for any reason whatsoever.
Agent/Group Leader
Minimum Numbers
All rates above are based on a minimum number of people travelling on the tour. If the number drops below this then we will have to review the package pricing.
Rate Guarantee
Upon the signature of your confirmed contract Cara Group Travel is willing to guarantee the package price against and increases in exchange rate or other market conditions.
Group Air
Airlines do not allow advance seat assignments for groups – they secure seat blocks for groups, and do not assign passengers to specific seats until airport check-in. Frequent flyer miles may be accrued on group flights. Upgrades are not allowed on Group Block Air – all upgraded tickets are a separate deviation from the Group Block and are only guaranteed upon instant purchase. Once the Group Block Air is ticketed (45 days prior to departure) – it is possible to contact Delta Airlines directly and request upgraded seats (this is subject to availability). All excess luggage fees are the responsibility of the passenger.
Final Rooming List
A final rooming list along with complete passport details for each traveler must be provided to Cara Group Travel 60 days prior to the tour.
Changes & Modifications
Any changes and/or significant modifications to your confirmed quote done after your 60-day deadline will incur a change fee and will result in the delay of documents.