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TRAVEL OPERATIONS
All Payments are non-refundable and non-transferable. All tours will incur a $50 fee per change to any components plus any additional incurred costs. For air changes penalties vary. Minimum fee for changes to airline reservations is $100 per person per segment. Spelling corrections to clients' names after tickets have been issued are subject to airline change fees. If documents have been issued a shipping fee will apply to send revised travel documents. Changes made inside of 45 days are considered a cancellation. Fees are subject to adjustment at any time at the Tour Operator's discretion. If you are booked in a double or twin room and your roommate cancels, you will be responsible for the single supplement. Name changes and transfers of reservations are not permitted.
Cancellation penalties for River cruise Bookings:
- 90-60 days prior to commencement of services: 35% of total price plus Travel Protection premiums
- 59-30 days prior to commencement of services: 50% of total price plus Travel Protection premiums
- 29-1 days prior to commencement of services: 80% of total price plus Travel Protection premiums
- On departure day and later: 100% of total price plus Travel Protection premiums.
SEE ADDITIONAL TERMS AND CONDTIONS ENCLOSED WITHIN YOUR DOCUMENT PACKAGE FOR SPECIFIC DETAILS
Escorted Motorcoach/River cruise Tours are co-shared with Globus and/or Brendan Tours. You benefit considerably from this collaboration through considerably lower tour prices and greater choice of itineraries and departure dates. Independent travel products/packages are operated by Global Consolidated Services USA, Inc., Lynbrook, NY.
IF THE TOUR OPERATOR CANCELS THE TOUR
In the event the Tour Operator, for any reason, cancels your escorted tour we will rebook clients on the same tour with the next available departure date or a similar tour. If there is no acceptable substitute the Tour Operator will issue a refund to the client of the amount paid only; there is no additional liability. Please note the Tour Operator cannot be held responsible for any air and other travel arrangements not booked with the Tour Operator.
REFUNDS FOR UNUSED SERVICES
No refunds will be made for unused services or vouchers once travel arrangements have commenced.
AIR ARRANGEMENTS
Tour Operator is not responsible if an airline cancels, reschedules, or delays a flight for any reason. If you miss your departure flight, it is your responsibility to work with the airline on which you are ticketed to reach your destination. Tour Operator is not responsible for any additional expenses you may incur prior to joining your trip. Tour Operator is not responsible for and will not provide any refund for portions of trips missed due to canceled, rescheduled, or delayed flights.
For air purchased through Tour Operator, if any air schedule requires an overnight stay in a gateway city, it is the client's responsibility to secure accommodations is at client's expense. Air routings are subject to availability. Routings are not guaranteed and are subject to change at any time.
If you make your own flight arrangements, Tour Operator will not be responsible for any loss resulting from cancellation or changes in international gateways or travel dates. We recommend that you do not purchase airline tickets with high penalty charges for changes.
PARTICIPATION
For the benefit of everyone on your vacation, Tour Operator reserves the right to accept or reject any vacation participant and to remove any participant whose conduct is deemed incompatible with the interests of the other participants. We will not refund nor cover any cost or expenses you incur if we have to terminate your vacation arrangements due to your unacceptable behavior.
TRAVELLERS WHO NEED SPECIAL ASSISTANCE
You must report any disability requiring special attention while on tour or on cruise to Tour Operator at the time the reservation is made. Tour Operator will make reasonable attempts to accommodate the special needs of disabled travelers, but is not responsible in the event it is unable to do so nor is it responsible for any denial of services by air carriers, hotels, restaurants, or other independent suppliers. The Americans with Disabilities Act is only applicable within the United States and facilities for disabled individuals are limited outside its borders. Most transportation services, including the touring motor coach, are not equipped with wheelchair ramps. We regret that we cannot provide individual assistance to a vacation participant for walking, dining, getting on and off motor coaches and other vehicles, or other personal needs. A qualified and physically able companion must accompany travelers who need such assistance and must assume full responsibility for their well-being.
Although some of our ships have elevators, many of our small ships (e.g. river cruise vessels) do not. Passengers requiring ship elevators should inquire before making reservations. Additionally, most stateroom doors and restrooms are not wide enough to allow access by standard wheelchairs, and bathrooms and other doorways may be fitted with coamings. For safety reasons, passengers in wheelchairs cannot be carried on ramps in ports where the ship is at anchor. Motorized scooters are not typically suitable on international tours or river cruises.
YOUNG TRAVELLERS
Travelers who are less than 18 years old on the departure date must be accompanied by an adult and share an adult's accommodations throughout the duration of the vacation. There are no young traveler discounts however we do accept children ages 8-17. We do not accept children less than 8 years old on Tour Operator vacations. For any special requirements regarding airline tickets for children, contact your airline directly.
Due to heightened security, many countries have adopted practices to prevent international abductions of children. If a child will be traveling with adults other than the parents or with only one parent, it is recommended that a notarized letter be written by the parents or non-traveling parent granting authorization to travel, including the dates of travel. We suggest that you also contact the appropriate consulate and airlines because they may have additional requirements or recommendations.
SMOKING
Smoking is not allowed on transportation that is exclusively provided by Tour Operator
PRICES
All package prices listed herein are per person and are based on double occupancy unless otherwise noted. . Prices are subject to change. Brochure prices are Land/Tour only. Prices exclude airfare. Contact call center to acquire up to the minute air rates.
PLEASE NOTE: All rates are shown in U.S. dollars and do not include future government taxes or surcharges, or additional future service charges. These rates are based on exchange rates, tariffs and tax rates in effect as of October 1st 2008 and may be subject to change without notice. Each individual tour price includes charges for research, itinerary preparation and planning, currency transfer and booking procedures. In each case, the quoted price represents a complete package price and an itemization of individual component prices will not be rendered under any circumstances. Rates may not apply to Christmas, and New Year's season. Supplements may be required for St. Patrick's week, Easter week, and other holidays.
VISAS & PASSPORTS
You are responsible for obtaining and paying for all visas and entry documents, for meeting all health and other requirements, and for any documents required by the laws, regulations, orders, and/or requirements of the countries you will visit. Non-U.S. citizens must consult with appropriate consulates to determine if any visas are needed and are responsible for obtaining all visas and entry documents independently. Tour Operator is not responsible for providing you with specific visa and passport information or documentation and Tour Operator cannot accept liability for any passenger refused entry onto any transport or into any country due to failure of the passenger to carry correct documentation. All passengers traveling internationally are required to have a passport. Most countries require that the passport be valid for at least six (6) months beyond the conclusion of your trip. It is recommended you have a minimum of three blank pages in your passport when traveling, as many countries require blank pages. Multiple-entry visas are required for some vacations. It is your responsibility to verify all visa and passport requirements.
ACCOMODATIONS
The accommodations listed on the Website/brochure are intended to be used on all departures; however, if a change becomes necessary for any reason, including additional departures on the same date, the accommodations substituted will be equivalent to those shown. All accommodations are arranged as stated herein. We reserve the right to substitute hotels, car models, golf and sightseeing listed herein for similar product categories as conditions may require. Hotel rooms in Europe are typically smaller and less standardized than those in the United States and do not always offer air conditioning. Please note that a "twin room" generally includes 2 twin beds placed side by side. Single rooms often only include one twin bed and are smaller than twin sized rooms. Please note that accommodation check-in times vary worldwide. It is standard hotel policy those hotels check in is generally not possible before 2:00 p.m.
PRIVATE BATH AND SINGLE ROOMS
In exceptional cases where private baths or single rooms reserved by us are not available, refunds will be made by the Tour Director or Local Host. Claims made in this respect cannot be accepted after the vacation is completed.
OPEN B&B VOUCHERS
Acceptance of B&B vouchers by hotels is at the sole discretion of the proprietor, as is any supplement charged. No refunds will be issued for unused vouchers or of vouchers presented as payment to B&Bs of a lesser price category. It is the client's responsibility to secure their own reservations with the individual B&Bs under the open voucher program. The Tour Operator can, in certain circumstances, pre-book a B&B on the clients' behalf for an additional fee. Clients must consult the written instructions, terms and conditions listed in any B&B literature provided after booking. Supplements per room per night may apply during peak months and are payable direct to homeowners.
CAR RENTAL INFORMATION
A valid U.S. driver's license is required to hire a car in Europe. All car hire in Ireland and UK include unlimited mileage, local taxes, and third party insurance. Rental prices reflect the cost of only one driver per car, although the price of the rental may be split between multiple travelers. Additional drivers may be added to the reservation at time of pick-up and will carry an additional fee determined by the rental company. Your voucher does not constitute the rental agreement. When you pick up the vehicle, you must sign a rental agreement provided by the rental company and subject to local laws. Additional fees may apply for rental service beyond hours of operation. All car rates are guaranteed in US Dollars, all local fees are billed in local currency directly to client.
IRELAND CAR RENTALS
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) on car rentals is available to be booked prior to departure at a discounted rate. CDW insurance will have an insurance deductible (excess) of 1000 euros. Super CDW is available at a price but allows for walk away coverage. We strongly recommend purchasing CDW at time of booking. If you choose not to take the CDW, you will be held fully responsible for any damage to the vehicle.
Driver Supplements are as follows and must be paid to the Rental Company at the time of the car pickup in Ireland:
- Minimum Age: 21years through 23 years €25 per day plus tax
- Maximum Age: 71years through 75 years €10 per day plus tax
- Additional Driver charge €8 per day plus tax
FEE DISCLOSURE
A non-refundable location surcharge of €25 is assessed by the rental company at the time pick-up. A gasoline charge for a full tank of gas is assessed at the time of pick-up and refunded in full if the car is returned with a full tank. Any non-covered liability of the car is held on the client's credit card during the course of the rental and released after the car is returned in its original condition.
UK/ITALY CAR RENTAL (May vary dependent upon vendor)
Driver Supplements are as follows and must be paid to car Rental Company at the time of the car pickup in UK:
- Minimum Age: 21 years through 22 years £14 per day plus tax
- 23 years through 24 years £7 per day plus tax
- Vehicle License fee - £1.07 per day plus tax
- Additional Driver fee - £2.50 per day plus tax
- Location Surcharge of 13% of rental plus tax
FEE DISCLOSURE
The Rental Company at the time pick-up assesses a non-refundable location surcharge equal to 13% of the base rental fare. A gasoline charge for a full tank of gas is assessed at the time of pick-up at standard gas rates. Any non-covered liability of the car is held on the client's credit card during the course of the rental and released after the car is returned in its original condition.
GOLF BOOKINGS
Handicap certificates or cards may be required at most top courses. An introductory letter from a PGA professional may be used as a substitute in some cases, once handicap is noted. Standard handicap limits are 24 for men and 36 for women. All golf is arranged as stated herein. We reserve the right to substitute golf courses listed herein for golf courses in similar categories as conditions may require. Golf courses are categorized by the opinions of the Tour Operator staff.
BAGGAGE ALLOWANCE
Porterage for one suitcase is included in the vacation price. Airport porterage is not included unless otherwise specified in your travel documents. Due to limited capacity, your single bag should have dimensions not exceeding 30"x18"x10" and weight not exceeding 50lbs (22kg). Your air carrier may have stricter weight/dimension limitations. Some vacations have more restrictive regulations than these listed above. Please refer to your Travel Documents for more information.
Size and weight limitations for carry-on and checked baggage vary from airline to airline and even according to destination, and are becoming more restrictive. Some airlines are also charging fees for checked baggage, including the first checked bag, and these fees are not included in the vacation package. Please check with your airline(s) directly for baggage information and regulations. Tour Operator is not responsible for additional fees imposed by air carriers regarding baggage. Regulations within most airports require that travelers handle their own luggage through customs. No responsibility is accepted for loss of or damage to baggage or any of the traveler's belongings throughout the duration of the vacation. Insurance is recommended.
Carry-on bags should not exceed the dimensions of 12"x11"x6". For safety reasons, wheeled carry-on bags are not suitable as hand luggage Carry-on bags must be small enough to store in overhead bins or under the seat in front of you. We regret that we are unable to accept a second suitcase or any luggage exceeding the guidelines above. An additional fee may be collected by the Tour director directly is the above conditions are not strictly adhered to.
NOT INCLUDED IN YOUR VACATION PRICE
Federal inspection fees for the Federal U.S. Customs and Immigrations; International Air Transportation tax; agricultural tax; other per person taxes imposed by government entities; airport taxes and fees including the September 11th Security fee up to $10 per person, Passenger facility charges up to $18 per person, Federal domestic flight segment fees up to $3.50 per segment and U.S. and International arrival and departure, and other government imposed fees up to $300 per person; port taxes; passports; visas and vaccinations; tips to your Tour or Cruise Director, Local Host, driver, Local Guides, and/or ships' crew; gratuities on ferries, trains, and cruise ships; laundry; telephone; minibar; alcohol, beverages, and food outside of the contracted Tour Operator menu as presented at a hotel or restaurant (these extra items will be billed to you before leaving the hotel, ship, or restaurant); optional excursions; airport transfers on non-qualifying flights; porterage at airports and train stations; Travel Protection premiums; excess baggage fees; and all other items not specifically mentioned.
REFUNDS
The Tour Operator reserves the right to determine eligibility for requested refunds. All claims for refunds must be submitted in writing within 30 days of end of travel date. Customarily there are no refunds on river cruises.
AIRPORT TRANSFERS
Airport transfers can be added at time of bookings on qualifying flights and dates. Not all flights qualify. Customers not using the Tour Operator transfers will be solely responsible for arriving at port by time of departure
SPECIAL REQUESTS
Special requests if confirmed are subject to availability. When making a purchase on the website, you expressly accept the possibility that the Tour Operator may not satisfy such special requests. No purchase or reservation may be canceled based on the failure of a Tour Operator to satisfy special requests.
WEB BOOKINGS
Website contains special pricing that is exclusively for Internet sale only. Bookings made through our call center may incur a fee of up to $25 per person, excluding agent bookings. Should web site and its travel offerings (including confirmations) contain errors, including errors in pricing or package inclusions, the Tour Operator reserves the right to correct any such errors, without limitation. Confirmations issued are likewise subject to modification and/or correction at any time prior to actual travel. Under no circumstances shall The Tour Operator, its affiliates, employees, or vendors be held liable for any damage, including consequential or incidental damage, resulting from such errors or the correction thereof.
SAFETY
Please be aware that during your participation in vacations operated by Tour Operator, certain risks and dangers may arise beyond our control, including but not limited to: the hazards of traveling in undeveloped areas; travel by boat, train, automobile, aircraft, or other means of transportation; the forces of nature; political unrest; acts of lawlessness or terrorism; and accident or illness in remote regions without means of rapid evacuation or medical facilities. Tour Operator and its affiliates will not have liability regarding provision of medical care or the adequacy of any care that may be rendered. It is understood that Tour Operator or it affiliate will use its best efforts to ensure that adequate measures are taken.
ITINERARY CHANGES-CRUISES
In the event of water level problems on stretches of any river, it may be necessary to operate part of the itinerary by motor coach. Tour Operator reserves the right to change the itinerary whenever conditions, in the opinion of the Master of the Ship or local waterways regulations render it advisable or necessary. Tour Operator or its affiliates will not be responsible for any loss or expense caused by reason of such changes.
Tour Operator reserves the right to cancel, advance, or postpone any scheduled tour and/or sailing date and may, but is not obligated to, substitute another vessel, and shall not be liable for any loss whatsoever to tour/cruise participants by reason of any such cancellation, advancement, or postponement. In the event of cancellation by Tour Operator only, tour/cruise participants' only right of recourse shall be to a refund of monies paid to said operator in connection with such tour/cruise. In the event of charters of the vessels, strikes, lockouts, riots, or stoppage of labor for whatever cause or for any other reason whatsoever, Tour Operator may at any time cancel, advance, or postpone any scheduled sailing and may, but is not obliged to, substitute another vessel and shall not be liable for any loss whatsoever to tour/cruise participants by reason of any such cancellation, advancement, or postponement.
PHOTOGRAPHS AND PICTURES
Photographs or pictures appearing on the Web site/brochure should be used solely as an indication of facilities and attractions. Actual facilities and attractions may vary according to itinerary. Maps shown are current at the time of printing and may not reflect the actual tour routing should the itinerary change.
OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS & ACTIVITIES
The air carriers, accommodations, and other suppliers (referred to as "the Suppliers") (including but not limited to trains, cruises, ferries, motor coaches, hotels, and restaurants) providing optional activities and excursions ("the Services") in the area of the vacation itinerary that are available for booking are not run, supervised, or controlled in any way by the Tour Operator. These services are provided by local operators or other third parties that are entirely independent of the Tour Operator, which has no control and has no right of control over the operations of these independent contractors.
Such activities and excursions do not form any part of the product or services sold to you by the Tour Operator or of these Terms and Conditions, even where the Tour Operator suggests particular operators/other third parties and/or assists you in booking such activities or excursions. Your contract for such activity or excursion will be with the organizer or operator of that activity or excursion and will be subject to its Terms and Conditions, which may contain exclusions or limitations of liability. The Tour Operator has no liability for any such activity or excursion or for any act(s) or omission(s) of the organizer or operator or for any of its employees or agents or any other person(s) connected with the activity or excursion.
Any advice or assistance on or with any activity or excursion provided by any local representative does not mean or imply that the activity or excursion is sold, supervised, or controlled by the Tour Operator or that any such advice or assistance is given on behalf of the Tour Operator. Vacation participants are asked to check with the operator of any activity or excursion and the applicable Terms and Conditions before booking.
RESPONSIBILITY
Payment of the trip itinerary constitutes consent to all Legal policies and terms and conditions described here. Neither the Tour Operator nor any mentioned or unmentioned subagents/affiliates shall be held responsible for any personal injury, property damage or other loss a passenger incurs on any tour arising from acts or omissions by any air carrier, public transport company, hotel, car rental company, subcontractor or other person or organization, whether or not such company is rendering any services supplied on the tour. All tickets and vouchers are issued and supplied subject to the foregoing and to any and all terms and conditions under which transportation and services are provided. The Tour Operator accepts no responsibility for losses or expenses due to delay or changes in schedules, flight cancellations or misconnections due to mechanical problems, sickness, quarantine, weather, acts of God, strikes, government actions, war, terrorism or other circumstances beyond its control. Passengers must bear all such losses or expenses. To guard against unforeseen circumstances, we recommend you purchase our optional travel protection plan offered with each booking. The Tour Operator reserves the right to alter prices at any time prior to departure and without prior notice if circumstances so warrant. Any devaluation or revaluation of currencies may affect published prices.
Global Consolidated Services USA Inc. (Tax ID #61-1452112), the Tour Operator, is responsible for fulfillment of all products and services purchased regardless of affiliates used. Purchaser's credit card will be charged by GCS and will appear as follows on credit card statement:
"GCS Travel Services"
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