1-700-500-516
Asia
Exotrav
Terms & Conditions
Foreword
Registration and Participation Terms
Registration Process
Registration and Payment
Upon registering for the trip, the traveler will pay a deposit of $400 per person. For certain destinations, the deposit may be higher depending on the trip itinerary. This information is specified on the trip page or provided after booking, and it supersedes the “Registration and Payment” terms outlined here and in the price quote.
The traveler’s participation in the trip is contingent upon Muscat receiving full payment for the trip no later than 30 days before the trip’s start date. It is important to understand that various service providers require payments within predefined timeframes, and we want to ensure you receive full service without delays. For certain trips, payment terms may differ, and earlier payment may be required due to internal flight ticketing, reserving spots on boats, trains, special services, or early payment terms from some hotels.
Muscat reserves the right to cancel the traveler’s registration and participation in the trip if full payment is not received.
Prices
The sample trip prices listed in the examples sent via email or displayed on the website are relevant only to the sample trips and may vary for a similar trip, depending on the dates and current prices of various services—hotels, flights, entrance fees to sites, etc. Trip prices are based on the cost rates of services in Israel and abroad, flight prices, local surcharges, foreign taxes and fees, and exchange rates of various currencies. Any additional costs resulting from changes in any of these components, including currency exchange rates and flight prices, will be borne solely by the traveler.
Foreign Exchange Rates
Prices are quoted in U.S. Dollars, Australian Dollars, New Zealand Dollars, or Euros, depending on the trip destination. Payment will be made in Israeli Shekels or foreign currency according to the exchange rate (dollar/euro) for checks/transfers on the payment day. The financial calculation will be based on the date of payment receipt. If payment is made in installments, the final calculation will be made according to the dates the payments are received.
Gratuities
Gratuities (tips) – as required by the conditions of each trip. For organized tours (including a group and an Israeli guide), the gratuity will be paid in Israel before departure and will be distributed by the guide to the various service providers: waiters, drivers, reception staff, local guides, etc. For private tours, the gratuity will be paid directly by the travelers. We will guide you according to the standard tipping practices for these types of trips.
Cancellation Fees
The Consumer Protection Law applies only to international flights departing from Israel and only if booked through a travel agent in Israel. The cancellation terms for ground services pertain to services provided abroad; therefore, the Consumer Protection Law does not apply to them. Below are the cancellation terms for ground services in the trip:
– A traveler who cancels their participation up to 45 days before the trip departure will pay a cancellation fee of $150/€150.
– A traveler who cancels their participation between 44 and 30 days before the trip will pay a 30% cancellation fee of the trip price.
– A traveler who cancels their participation between 29 and 14 days before the trip will pay a 65% cancellation fee of the trip price.
– A traveler who cancels their participation between 13 and 7 days before the trip will pay a 75% cancellation fee of the trip price.
– A traveler who cancels their participation between 6 and 2 days before the trip will pay a 90% cancellation fee of the trip price.
– A traveler who cancels their participation later than the periods mentioned above will be charged a cancellation fee of 95% of the trip price. A traveler who cancels on the day of departure, fails to show up, or avoids departure will be charged a 100% cancellation fee of the trip price.
– For certain trips, cancellation terms may vary based on the conditions of the foreign suppliers, and a separate notice will be given (usually in the trip page notes), replacing the above cancellation terms.
– It should be noted that during peak periods, in many destinations, cancellation fees may be full from 45 days before departure, or even earlier.
– For carnival trips, holiday periods (Tishrei and Passover holidays + other holidays and peak periods at the destination), and other events where the company pays and commits months in advance, special cancellation fees will apply.
– For trips requiring special entry permits (e.g., Tibet, Bhutan), the cost of the permit will be charged to the canceling traveler from the moment of registration, including visa processing fees.
– Galapagos Islands cruises: Full or exceptional cancellation fees may apply from the moment the cruise is confirmed, as detailed in the trip plan.
– International flights: According to the airline’s terms, plus a ticketing fee of $40 per ticket.
– Domestic flights: Cancellation fees are generally 100% after ticketing, meaning no refund, in accordance with airline policies.
The traveler’s cancellation notice must be submitted in writing via email. The cancellation date will only be considered valid on the day the written cancellation notice is received at the organizers’ office on business days. Business days are Sunday to Thursday, excluding holidays or holiday eves in Israel and/or abroad.
Credits and Refunds
A traveler who discontinues their participation in a trip during its course will not be entitled to any refund of payments made. Once the traveler has departed from the country, no refunds will be issued for any part of the trip or event in which the traveler did not participate for any reason, including tours, sections of a tour, transportation routes, unused meals, hotels, entrance fees to sites, etc. We highly recommend that all travelers purchase comprehensive travel insurance. Organizers’ agents, representatives, hotels, group leaders, or anyone else are not authorized to refund or guarantee refunds of any kind or to agree to any deviation from the outlined terms.
A traveler who cancels their participation before the trip but after payments have been made to service providers to reserve services will receive a refund according to Muscat’s cancellation policy and the specific terms of service providers, if such conditions were communicated in advance. If lenient terms are achieved for you, refunds will be made after receiving funds from the local service providers or after the services are utilized by other travelers under lenient conditions. In some cases, the local agent may offer credit for a future trip, in which case a refund will not be issued.
Trip Execution
We will make every effort to carry out the trip; however, we reserve the right to cancel the trip up to 15 days before its start for any reason, including if the number of registrants does not justify running the trip, at the discretion of the organizers. The execution of the trip is contingent upon a minimum number of participants. Notification of cancellation will be given by us. Any payments made will be refunded. The refund will be transferred to the traveler within 30 days of the cancellation, subject to the payment arrangements made between the traveler and Muscat. In the event of such a cancellation, Muscat will refund all the payments made but will not be obligated to provide any additional compensation to the traveler.
Participation in the Trip
Muscat reserves the right to decline a registration request or cancel a person’s registration at its discretion without providing reasons. Additionally, Muscat may, at its sole discretion, discontinue a traveler’s participation in the trip if we believe that their continued participation disrupts or interferes with the proper conduct of the trip or endangers/harms the traveler, the environment, or the service providers. In such cases, the organizers will refund the traveler the proportional part of the amount paid for the trip, minus the expenses incurred due to the discontinuation of their participation.
It is mandatory for the traveler to inform Muscat, prior to registration, of any physical or health limitations and/or any other restrictions to allow us to accommodate the trip to their special needs. The traveler understands that the organizers’ agreement to register them for the trip is based on the absence of such notification, indicating that the traveler is not limited in any way from participating in the trip. No complaints regarding difficulty levels conflicting with personal limitations will be accepted.
Changes During the Trip
Muscat Boutique Travel reserves the right to make changes to the itinerary based on conditions on the ground, weather, travel times, flight changes, etc., at the discretion of the guide and the local agent, even if the changes involve omitting sites mentioned in the itinerary. At the same time, we will do everything possible to carry out the trip as planned and, in the event of changes, to offer suitable alternatives.
Climate
Many of Muscat’s destinations are located in tropical regions or areas with climates different from what you’re used to. In recent years, due to the “El Niño” phenomenon, changes in weather patterns and disruptions in nature’s usual balance have become more noticeable, making it difficult to predict climate changes. In these regions, rain can fall year-round, and during the rainy season and transitional periods, it is, of course, more significant. Even in seasons considered relatively dry, there may be very rainy and cloudy days. Typically, if the rain is light or falls only in the afternoons and evenings, the trip can proceed as planned. However, sometimes rain will lead to changes and adjustments in the itinerary.
Usually, the guide or the local office will know how to adapt the schedule to the weather as much as possible. Our team at the various destinations will assist in making adjustments, based on your requests and local availability, and we will of course help where needed. It’s important to note that in some cases, changes may involve additional costs, and we will make every effort to minimize extra expenses. It’s recommended to approach such changes with understanding and a positive attitude as part of the travel experience.
Number of Trip Days
For organized group tours: the number of trip days includes the day of departure from Israel and the day of return, even if there are no scheduled tours on those days. For private trips where flights are not included, the number of trip days does not account for the departure and return days, unless these are the days of arrival at or departure from the travel destination. If the number of trip days changes due to alterations in flight schedules and/or unexpected changes in the itinerary, the trip price will be adjusted according to the addition or reduction of costs. It is clarified that the change will not be proportional to the number of days added or subtracted, but rather in accordance with the actual cost incurred or saved due to the change. Should these changes result in additional costs, travelers will cover the extra expenses as per our guidance.
Bus/Vehicle.
For both organized and private tours, a vehicle with a driver will be available to the group or individuals to carry out the different tours and activities included in the itinerary, as detailed in each trip plan. The vehicle will not necessarily be at the group’s disposal 24/7, and in any case, the driver’s working hours are subject to traffic regulations in different countries. The driver is not obligated to transport travelers during free time, on free days or evenings, to entertainment venues, or to locations not included in the itinerary. On free days, the vehicle and driver will not be available to travelers. Smoking is not permitted inside the vehicles during travel.
Roads and Travel Times
Our routes in many destinations, such as Sri Lanka, India, China, Bhutan, Tibet, Guatemala, Costa Rica and South America, Madagascar, Morocco, Nepal, and others, involve long journeys, sometimes on mountainous and winding roads under challenging and potentially dangerous conditions. Often, small or large vehicles traveling ahead will dictate the pace, as well as weather conditions that may alter the travel route. There may be discrepancies between the written itinerary and the reality on the ground. Please note that the itinerary may be adjusted on-site at the discretion of the guide, driver, and local office, even if these changes involve omitting sites listed in the plan.
Travel in some locations is dangerous, and seat belts must be worn throughout the journey. Comprehensive travel insurance covering accidents is essential, as we will not be held responsible for any direct or indirect damage to persons or property that may occur during the trip, including in the event of an accident.
International Driver’s License – Mandatory
If the trip includes independent driving in a rented vehicle, it is mandatory to obtain an international driving license issued by MEMSI, which must be brought on the trip (even though it may not always be required to present it), in addition to your Israeli driver’s license. For Japan, a special international driving license is required.
Hotels
In most hotels, check-in is usually from 2:00 PM, and check-out is before 12:00 PM, allowing hotel staff to prepare rooms for the next guests. There may be instances where you will need to wait before receiving your room. Hotels are booked well in advance; however, in some cases, changes may occur due to availability, overbooking by the hotel, or other reasons preventing the original hotel from confirming the room reservation. In such cases, the organizers reserve the right to arrange an alternative hotel in the area or sometimes outside the area, with the goal of ensuring that the overall itinerary is not affected. The alternative hotels will be of a similar standard. We often travel to developing countries or destinations with different architectural and design characteristics, and it’s important to note that hotel standards may not be uniform and can sometimes be lower than European standards.
Accommodation Conditions
If you’re seeking unique trips and wish to visit nature reserves or remote or rural areas, it’s essential to consider that the tourism level in these regions is quite basic, and the hotels are simple and far from the standards we’re accustomed to in the West! Often, these hotels are located near nature reserves or parks, away from city centers, the staff’s English is very basic, the meals are not particularly rich, and there may be power and water outages or a lack of hot water at certain times.
For trip itineraries that specify accommodation in the best available hotels, please remember that these hotels are chosen by default, and no complaints or claims will be accepted regarding their basic or lower standards, even if it seems there are higher-end hotels in the area. If you have any doubts about the suitability of the hotel list for you, please inform us during the trip planning stage.
Meals
In each trip itinerary, under the “price includes” section, the meals provided at various locations and included in the trip cost are listed. The meal menus are pre-determined, and their quality varies from place to place, as do the type of food, its flavor, variety, quantity, and serving style. Ordering additional drinks or extra dishes will incur an additional cost unless otherwise specified. Occasionally (for example, early flights or sunrise viewing in the Himalayas), breakfast may be served as a packed meal, delivered to the traveler’s room or picked up from the hotel’s reception desk. Meals during flights are the sole responsibility of the airlines. The organizers are not responsible for the type or quality of meals on flights or for any special meal requests made by the traveler.
Vegetarian/Vegan Meals
Travelers who wish to have vegetarian or vegan meals must request them in advance when registering for the trip. Ordering vegetarian or vegan meals does not incur additional costs; however, the organizers do not guarantee that they will be able to provide vegetarian/vegan meals throughout the entire trip as requested. Travelers ordering vegetarian/vegan meals should be aware that such meals typically consist of salad, rice, eggs, or potatoes, and there is limited variety available for these meals.
Kosher Meals
For observant travelers requesting kosher food, it’s important to note that in the destinations where we operate, there are no kosher restaurants. Meals provided during the trip will be vegetarian, without kosher certification, and based on vegetables, fruits, rice, and legumes. Where fish is available, we will request a baked fish in aluminum foil for you, but we cannot guarantee this. In destinations with vegetarian restaurants, a list of such restaurants will be provided. Muscat Boutique Travel will pass on the travelers’ requests to local service providers, but we cannot oversee the preparation methods or the ingredients used in the meals.
In most destinations, bookings will be made on a bed-and-breakfast basis only. For travelers who require a high level of kosher observance, it is recommended to join an organized tour or contact a company that specializes in the religious market.
Flights
• Changes to the scheduled flight itinerary made by the airline or changes to the airline itself may result in adjustments to the length of the trip and alterations to the itinerary. The trip price will be updated accordingly. Notification of flight schedule changes may occur with very short notice. A traveler who cancels their trip due to these changes will be subject to cancellation fees as per the published terms.
• Travelers who deviate from the group flight schedule by changing their return date or destination, while flying with the same airline, will incur an additional fee of $150, known as the Deviation Fee. In some cases, the price may be higher, depending on flight availability.
Security and Fuel Surcharge
Aviation authorities in Israel and abroad have imposed security surcharges and additional fees due to rising fuel prices on flight tickets. These amounts are not included in the trip price and will be charged according to the airline’s regulations.
The trip price usually includes:
Accommodation
Hotel/Lodge/Camp standards – as detailed for each trip; accommodations are in double rooms with en-suite facilities, unless otherwise specified.
Flights
There are packages where flights are not included. This will be specified under “The price does not include.” For group trips: flight tickets are based on group rates according to the itinerary (departure and return with the group) and domestic flights as per the trip plan. In any case, departing or returning on a different flight (not with the group) will incur an additional fee and require airline approval.
Guidance
Provided by local guides in English, as required by the laws of various countries. In Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and other destinations, some trips are based on shared tours with international groups.
Meals
As detailed in each trip’s itinerary. Breakfast is usually a buffet or continental, unless otherwise specified.
Transportation
Special tourist vehicle or other means of transport, as specified in the trip itinerary. We are not obligated to provide transportation to travelers at times not integral to the itinerary, including outings for evening entertainment not part of the scheduled program. Any transportation provided at the travelers’ request outside the itinerary will be at their own expense.
Transfers to and from Airports Abroad
Individual travelers or those traveling within a group who join or leave the group at a time different from the one published in the trip itinerary are not entitled to transfers or any refund.
Entrance Fees
Entrance fees to sites and reserves, as detailed in each specific itinerary.
Gratuities (Tips)
For groups, tips are usually included in the trip price, as required by the conditions of each trip. The gratuity will be paid in Israel before departure and will be given by the guide to the various service providers: waiters, drivers, reception staff, local guides, etc. In private tours, gratuities will not be collected in Israel and will be paid directly to the service providers by the travelers. Individual travelers will pay tips in the destination country according to the recommendations provided by our office.
Baggage
According to the terms of the airlines.
The Trip Price Does Not Include:
Passport and Entry Visas
Fees for obtaining or renewing passports, visa fees, and processing.
Taxes and Fees
The price does not include airport and security taxes in Israel, in the travel countries, or domestic flight airport taxes. Additionally, any surcharge, tax, or other mandatory payment not included in the trip price at the time of publication may be imposed until the day of departure.
Meals: Meals not included in the trip price.
Insurance:
Travel insurance – personal, medical, and baggage. We require every traveler to purchase an appropriate insurance policy that includes coverage for cancellations, evacuation, and repatriation from the area, as well as coverage for extreme activities.
Leisure Activities and Tours During Free Time:
Any tours or activities not specified in the itinerary.
Personal Expenses:
Expenses of a personal nature, such as mail, phone calls, laundry, beverages, etc.
Passport and Entry Visas
A valid passport with at least six months’ validity is required. Obtaining or renewing a passport and securing a visa are the sole responsibility of the traveler. It is essential to check with us regarding the timeline for submitting personal details to obtain a visa, according to each itinerary. In the event of trip cancellations or changes resulting from issues with entry visas or government policies in the countries being visited, the company is not responsible for any damages or related expenses.
It is mandatory to obtain an entry visa in advance for destinations that require one, such as China, Sri Lanka, Burma, Vietnam, the USA, Cuba, India, Australia, Indonesia, and Bhutan. Travelers must check with our office whether a visa is required for their destination, including layovers during their flight itinerary, and visa arrangements should be made well in advance.
Health
Travelers must contact the district health office at least one month before the departure date to receive guidance regarding vaccinations and medications. We are strictly prohibited from providing advice or instructions on these matters.
Privacy Policy of Muscat Boutique Travel
Last Update: August 2024
Muscat Boutique Travel Ltd. (hereinafter: “the Company”) respects the privacy of its customers and is committed to safeguarding the personal information provided to it as follows:
Information Collection
The Company collects personal information about its customers in order to provide efficient and personalized services. The information collected may include, but is not limited to:
Full name, email address, phone number, residential address, desired trip details, and personal preferences.
Use of Information
The personal information collected will be used by the Company for the following purposes:
– To provide the services you requested from us
– To improve and personalize our services and offerings
– To contact customers, including for marketing purposes, updates, and reminders
– To address technical or operational matters.
Sharing Information with Third Parties
The Company does not sell, rent, or share personal information with third parties, except in the following cases:
– To comply with legal requirements, court orders, or regulations from authorities
– To protect our legal rights or those of our customers
– When using external service providers that offer services (such as payment processors, email services, customer management systems, etc.)
– Sharing relevant travel service providers’ information necessary for booking in order to provide the travel services requested.
Data Security
The Company takes all reasonable measures to protect the personal information collected. Security measures include:
– Encryption of sensitive data
– Restricted access to personal information by Company personnel only
– Regular maintenance and updating of security systems
Customer Rights
Customers have the right to:
– Request a copy of the personal information we hold
– Update or correct their personal information
– Request the deletion of their personal information
– Refuse to receive marketing communications
Data Retention
The Company will retain personal information as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes of collection or as required by law.
Policy Changes
The Company reserves the right to change this policy from time to time. In the event of a significant change to the policy…
Responsibility and Insurance
Extreme Travel Insurance
Unexpected Changes
Muscat Boutique Travel organizes trips to remote destinations, most of which are in developing and underprivileged countries. Occasionally, the written itinerary may not fully align with the reality on the ground due to changes beyond our control, such as delays and alterations in flight schedules, weather conditions, road conditions, political changes, and more.
As a result, changes to the itinerary may be made at the discretion of the local representative (guide, driver, etc.), including the possibility of omitting sites mentioned in the original plan. We recommend approaching the trip with patience, a smile, and an open mind. We will do our utmost to avoid issues and address them effectively to ensure you have an enjoyable travel experience.
Support and Assistance During the Trip
The trips are mostly conducted in countries where infrastructure is limited or differs from what we are accustomed to in the Western world. Therefore, to ensure you have a better travel experience, we, along with our team in various countries, are available to assist you 24/7.
The Muscat Boutique Travel team, as well as our personnel at the various destinations, are at your service throughout the trip to address any issues that may arise. If you encounter any matters requiring attention, please reach out to our representatives at the location you are visiting. If the issue is not resolved, please contact us immediately.
Final Documents for the Trip
Customers will receive their final trip documents approximately one week before departure, which will include: a list of important phone numbers, travel tips, a confirmation form for hotels and domestic flights, and the final itinerary in both Hebrew and English. The English itinerary is technical in nature and includes the sites listed in the plan, sometimes with code names understood by the local office. The English itinerary is not a complete translation of the Hebrew itinerary.
It is important to review the various documents before your departure, and if there are any discrepancies or mismatches, please bring them to our attention.
Disputes:
A. The local jurisdiction shall be exclusively with the court of Tiberias.
B. It is expressly clarified that the registration of a traveler with a travel agency or through an independent travel agent anywhere in the country shall not grant jurisdiction to the courts in the jurisdiction where the travel agency or agent’s business is located, even if the claim is filed against them as well.
C. The company reserves the right, at its sole discretion and absolute judgment, to require that any disputes between the traveler and the company be resolved before one or more arbitrators.
If you’ve made it this far… you likely want to proceed to the next step. A link to the registration form can be found in your trip itinerary.