An adventure of a lifetime - Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery
Introduction On our Bhutan Group trip on April 24, three of our senior travelers, along with...
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Choosing the best options for your group tour entails several factors, from picking the right tour to finalizing your booking. Whether you're curious about tour specifics, itinerary details, online reservations, or any other concerns, our Frequently Asked Questions section is designed to provide answers and ensure your travel plans proceed smoothly.
General Questions
Q1. What is usually the size of the Senior Group Departures ?
Typically, the number of guests traveling varies based on the destination. On our World tours, the average group size ranges from 20 to 30 people, while for Indian tours, it typically ranges from 20 to 26 people. In cases where a tour receives an exceptional response or is considered special, the group size may increase. Rest assured, we ensure that there is one Tour Manager provided for every 24 travelers to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Q2. Who would be my fellow-travellers ?
Your fellow travellers can be individuals from diverse backgrounds, ranging from professionals like Chartered Accountants and Doctors to educators, artists, retired from forces, businessmen, and people of all religions, regions, and languages. When you return from your dream holiday, we guarantee that you'll have made new friends and expanded your social circle.
Q3. Is it feasible for me to extend my stay at a particular destination?
If you wish to extend your stay, please notify us at the time of booking. Additional charges will apply. Please note that no extensions or alterations can be accommodated once the tour has commenced.
Q4. Is it possible to avail a part of the Tour?
We strongly advise do not to tour partly as you would not be able to experience your holiday in fullest. But in case it is necessary and unavoidable our consultants would guide you for the best experience.
Q5. Will the tour dates change?
If we have to change the tour date it would be done in the initial stage, like 30 days prior to the departure giving you a sufficient time to prepare for the travel. But in case of natural or political reasons which is beyond our control then we would inform all travellers before making the changes.
Q6. Would it be possible to make additions in services after booking is made?
Yes you are welcome to add the optional tours which we offer in our particular departures. A prior information would enhance a better execution and avoid any last-minute non-availability situation.
Q7. What is the refund policy of Travel Seasons?
Cancellation in unavoidable situation will attract cancellation charges, which are mentioned in every group departure brochure. Our refund policies are contingent upon our suppliers, including airlines, hotels, and transporters. However, we firmly believe that your hard-earned money should not be wasted. We make every effort to secure maximum refunds from each vendor. However, please consult your holiday consultant who will inform the details whenever we receive the cancellation in writing.
Q8. What if the departure gets cancelled due to a smaller number of booked passengers?
In most of the case we will try to operate the tours which are published, but in the case where the bookings are lesser in number we will inform well in advance about the non-operation of a particular departure. We will try to offer a similar tour or else try to accommodate in the next departure. But if both cases are not suiting your travel requirements, we will offer a complete refund.
Q9. In case of medical emergency during the tour?
In the event of a medical emergency during the tour, Travel Seasons have established procedures to ensure the safety and well-being of participants. Our Tour Managers are trained in basic first aid and can provide immediate assistance while contacting local emergency services to obtain professional medical help as quickly as possible. Your travel insurance that covers medical emergencies to help with costs associated with medical treatment or evacuation. Before the tour begins, provide the us with emergency contact information and inform the Tour Manager of any pre-existing medical conditions. Ensure you have all necessary medical supplies and documentation with you to provide us the best advise.
Q10. If my passport is misplaced, what kind of assistance with be provided?
The tour manager is appointed to manage the whole group and since the leader must adhere to the itinerary, the group might need to proceed to the next destination while you remain at your current location. Any additional services required will incur extra charges. We might be able to provide assistance, subject to availability and at an additional cost. This assistance would include helping you with necessary formalities such as lodging a complaint or FIR at the nearest police station and obtaining a Landing Certificate from the Indian Embassy at the respective international destination.
Q11. What kind of air-tickets I will get and what are the rules?
You will be provided e-ticket is a paperless electronic document with a unique confirmation number that replaces the need for a traditional paper ticket. We will share the soft copy to you when the group tickets are issued which are usually a week prior to the group departure date. You may need e-tickets for buying foreign exchange. For out-of-town guests who have booked connecting flights may arrive at the airport ahead of schedule, we can issue an e-ticket copy upon request on a case-by-case basis. Please do not make any changes to the e-ticket at the airport, as it is a group PNR, and any changes could cause issues for the entire group.
Tour Price & Discounts
Q1. Are the prices mentioned in the brochure on twin-sharing, Do I have to pay additional for single room?
All the prices broadcasted in our offer are based on Double sharing basis. If you wish to stay in a single room you need to pay a surcharge which is roughly 30-40% additional than offered price. You travel advisor will inform you the options.
Q2. What is the discount in case Iam booking for more than 8 persons?
We offer attractive discount if we are receiving the payments of all 8 passengers within 5 working days of confirming the booking.
Q3. Every offer mentions a discount, till when I can avail this discount?
We mention discounts in three phases, a) The early bird discount or additional benefits which is valid which is valid till 45 prior to the departure, b) flash discount which is a promotional offer and can be availed at any point of time and lastly c) Flat discount in case of any cancellation received from the booked passengers where we need participants on last minute basis.
Q4. I am a repeat traveller? Do I get additional discount?
Yes of course! Being a patron is our honour and we would always extend the maximum discounts to you.
Q5. I am referring someone, would I be getting any benefit?
You trust is an asset for us and in case you are referring a friend or family to us. We would be happy to offer discounts but in case you are already utilized a maximum reduction for any tour further reduction on referral would not be considered. But we will ensure that in our next departure you are offered a valuable reduction in prices.
Q6. What does the price includes?
We list down the inclusion in our every departure. Broadly we cover stay, food expenses (few major meals may not be included, do check the details), taxes (except TCS), monument charges, visa charges and assistance, tour manager services, insurance, drinking water, local guides and flight tickets international and as well as internal flights in some countries.
Q7. Usually what you do not included?
Generally personal expenses while you are on tour like laundry, beverages etc. Tipping in whichever country is mandatory is included. You would be asked by tour manager to contribute in the tipping kitty if it is not covered in the cost. The cost of taxi to reach the airport to catch the flight or any expenses to reach the meeting for out of town travellers.
On Tour
Q1. Where is the meeting point of each departure?
For every it is T3 terminal for international departure and for domestic departure it may vary which would be T3, T1 or T2 terminals of Delhi Airport. At T3 our meeting point is Gate 6 where we welcome you with some travel goodies and smiling faces of your travel advisors seeing you off. You will also meet your tour manager at the meeting point.
Q2. Usually what is the mode of travel during our group?
The modes of travel depend on the specific tour you book. Typically, we utilize various modes such as flights, coaches, trains, cruises, speed boats, jet foils, cable cars, etc., as detailed in the itinerary. For further details, please refer to the specific tour itinerary.
Q3. Will there be any night travel during the tour?
We generally try to avoid night journeys during tours, including flights, whenever possible. But there are few countries where a night flight is only option and it would be un avoidable. Also the cruise where we travel from one place to another during the night.
Q4. What is the pace of tours in general?
Generally our tour are paced keeping in mind of a senior travellers.
Q5. Does tours involve a lot of walking?
We will try our best that minimum walks is included in our itinerary. But in few countries its an unavoidable like in Japan and Europe where you have to walk from the parking spot to the monument.
Q6. How much early we have to get up during the tour?
Your tour manager will inform the schedule in advance, but mostly we start with 7am breakfast and 08am the star of the tours. But this is completely dependent on the itinerary and can change in every tour plan.
Q7. Would I be getting a wake-up call during the tour?
Yes you will get a phone call from automated system of the hotel but we would advise that keep your mobile alarms also to be on time.
Q8. What if Iam late during the sightseeing and miss any tour?
Punctuality is crucial when traveling in a group. To ensure you don't miss any part of the tour, please be on time and follow the Tour Manager's instructions diligently. If you miss any part of the tour, we regret to inform you that we cannot accept responsibility or provide a refund in such cases.
Q9. What assistance will be provided to a disabled person or someone with walking difficulty?
We would recommend that in such cases you must be accompanied by a companion who can assist you during the tour. The Tour Manager cannot he of any help and he/she has to manage the entire group.
Q10. Can I bring a wheelchair on the tour? Will it be possible to visit all the places?
Yes you can bring your own wheel chair during the tour, do check before the tour what is accessibility of sightseeing places of the tour you have chosen. Also place a request in advance to book a wheelchair accessible room. You must be accompanied by a companion who is able to push your wheelchair in case its not automatic.
Q11. Would I be getting time for local explorations and shopping?
We try to book a hotel which is city center so that when you have free time you can explore the markets or shopping places of the city. But in case you need to book a taxi etc to reach the local markets it will be borne by you.
We always keep time for shopping in every tour, we refrain from suggesting the best shops etc. You are mostly on your own to make the choice.
Q12. Would I be able to use my credit card for shopping etc in other countries?
International cards are widely accepted at all major entities. The charges applicable should be checked with your card provider. Also in case of any fraud etc we are not liable.
Q13. How will I stay in tour with my family while Iam on tour?
We got it covered for you here, we create a kins whatsapp group to keep your loved ones updated about all the fund you are having during the tour. Also you can always connect with them on call and inform them of your well being.
Q14. What if I fall ill during the tour and cannot continue the trip further?
In such situation, please inform your Tour Manager immediately who will assist you in booking a return flight and keep your family member informed about the situation. Any cost to prepone the flight will be borne by you. Any refund of unused services is also not possible.
Q15. Can I purchase medicine in other countries?
We would recommend to carry a sufficient batch of medicines while your are tour. It would be wise to keep two such packets in case your baggage is lost or delayed in reaching the destination. Also, you can get medicines abroad also but a registered doctors prescription is mandatory.
Q16. I have booked a tour in India what are the Id Proof accepted?
In tour within India Adhar Card or at some specific location like North East Voter Id card or driving license is asked.
Q17. I have booked a tour within India but I am thinking on travel to my relatives place post tour?
Group tickets are booked to & fro, one-way tickets may cost more. Whatever would be the additional cost for reaching your last destination the same would be advised by tour advisor.
Q18. I am reaching Delhi by a train will that be included in my services?
No it is not included, but we always advise you the timing etc to reach Delhi. Or we can also book this service for you on additional charges.
Q19. How much luggage is allowed in flight within India?
It would be 15Kg for check-in bags and 7kg for hand baggage which are permissible.
Q20. How much luggage is allowed in for abroad?
It may depend on the carrier we are choosing but it will start from 20kg for cabin-in and 7kg of hand baggage which would be permitted.
Q21. Would I get my preferred seat in airline in Domestic or International flights?
Preferred seats are chargeable basis and you can connect with your advisor regarding the charges.
Meals And Drinks
Q1. What type of meals are provided in international tours?
We include meals at Indian Restaurants during the international tours. But we ensure that we keep one or two local meals so that you get the flavour of the place you would be travelling to.
Q2. Are drinks included in the meals?
We only include water in the meals, any other beverage needs to be paid before you leave the restaurants.
Q3. I am a Vegetarian would I get meal options?
Yes of course, most of our traveller prefer veg meals and its is widely available during national or international tours.
Q4. I need a meals without garlic or onion?
Yes it would be possible and a prior information would be appreciated to arrange the meal accordingly for you.
Q5. Iam allergic to a specific food item would it be possible to avoid it?
You need to mention the food your allergic to and the level of allergy allowing us to be prepared. We will inform all eateries about it and it would be taken care of.
Q6. Will drinking water provided during the tour?
Its an USP of Travel Seasons that we provide unlimited water during the tour to you.
Q7. Iam a tea lover how I would manage that in International country?
We have got you covered till 15 cups of chai which is usually sufficient for the whole tour. But you are tea lover beyond that please carry few sachets with you.
Coaches And Cars
Q1. I want a seat to be allocated in front as I have motion sickness?
We would recommend carry over the counter medicine to tackle this situation. And a preferred seats cannot be allocated to you in the complete tour.
Q2. Where will I sit in coach or car?
The seating will keep rotating per day basis, we cannot prefer one traveller over other.
Q3. How many hours we need to sit in the car/coach? Will there be stoppages during the drive?
The hours will depend on the itinerary you have chosen, but we do try to avoid long hours in the vehicle. But in case its unavoidable we have to keep arrangements accordingly. You would be provided with neat and clean bathroom stops during the drives.
Documentation
Q1. Do I need a passport to travel ?
Passport is compulsory for all International travel except in Bhutan where Voter Id card is also accepted
Q2. Do I need a passport with 6 months validity for International travel?
Yes its is mandatory that you can a valid passport during the travel. In case a renewal is pending please get it done before booking the tour.
Q3. What is Scan copy of passport?
A proper scan in a professional scanner machine or on a phone app is required for visa application. Any visa rejection is not Travel Seasons liability.
Q4. My name on passport is different than my other id proof.
For tickets issuance only passport names are taken and passport needs to be carried along for the International Travel. For domestic travel carry the id proof provided during the booking process.
Q5. How my Visa will be obtained?
We will handle your visa arrangements for international travel. You will need to provide a set of documents truthfully for the application process. If your visa application is rejected by the high commission of the destination country, it is beyond our control. We can assist with reapplying, but the decision rests with the high commission. In such cases, we will refund the amount paid, minus the visa charges incurred, which are non-refundable regardless of visa approval.
Q6. What if I extend my holiday in any country what documents are needed?
The visa and insurance are issued date specific as per your travel date. Hence a prior information would be needed in case you are thinking of any extension.
Tour Manager
Q1. Who would be our Tour Manager during the tour?
Depends we have few selected tour managers in Travel Seasons and it informed a week prior to you. But be assured that we he knows how to handle Senior Travellers.
Q2. In what language he /she will communicate?
He/she will communicate in Hindi and English
Q3. Will he fly with us and stay with us?
Yes of course all our group departures are full assisted from boarding the flight to flight back home. In some particular cases of room non availability he/she may stay in a hotel nearby.
Q4. How many tours manager are provided in each tour?
For every 30 persons there is one tour manager and beyond that you will have another one.
Booking Procedure
Q1. How many days prior I can book the tour?
You are welcome to book at the earliest to avail your early bird offers.
Q2. How much do I pay to book the tour?
We always ask for a booking amount first to secure your flight seats and other arrangements. Later the payment is asked in two slots one 45 days prior and second 30 days prior to the departure. But in case yours is last minutes booking we would ask for full payment.
Q3. What documents are needed for booking the tour?
A scan copy of your passport and pan card copies. Also, in some countries a covid vaccine certificate is asked.
Q4. Would I get more discount if I pay the complete amount upfront?
Yes, your travel advisor will guide you on the available options to help you save money effectively.
Q5. Would I be provided with a receipt post payment?
We would either acknowledge on WhatsApp or email of the funds received and balance remaining of due date etc. A proper bill be provided for the payment made to current account any cash deposit will not be counted while generating the bill.
Q6. Would I be getting a proper bill of the tour?
Yes post tour you will be provided with a proper bill for the amount received in current account. If you need a GST input inform us your GST number to inform our CA and make the bill under a entity.
After Booking
Q1. I have made the full payment now what information will I received?
Your travel advisor will acknowledge on email or WhatsApp that your complete payment has been received. First document you will receive is your Visa. A week prior a travel advisory, air tickets and day wise planning of the tour.
Q2. How will I communicate with my Tour Manager and Co travellers?
We will create a WhatsApp group a week prior where you, your co-travellers, your advisors along with tour manager will be communicating with each other.
Q3. Would I get a confirmation call before the departure?
You would be advised on WhatsApp message the meeting point and time to reach.
Q4. In case on emergency who should I contact?
In cash of emergency please contact the listed numbers in your travel advisory document.
Foreign Exchange
Q1. Do I need to carry multiple currencies for different countries visited on the tour?
No, carrying USD or EURO is sufficient as they are universally accepted currencies and easily exchangeable worldwide. You may carry a small amount of the local currency (equivalent to $50) for miscellaneous expenses or emergencies.
Q2. How much foreign exchange can I carry on tour?
According to RBI regulations, the Basic Travel Quota per financial year is US $10,000 per person for private visits and US $25,000 for business visits.
Q3. Is it advisable to carry foreign exchange in cash on tour?
While you can carry cash, we recommend American Express Travelers Cheques as they are widely accepted globally and safer than cash. If lost or stolen, they can be replaced worldwide, typically within 24 hours. For more details on foreign exchange options, please contact your advisor.
Refunds
Q1. How can I use my refund amount for a future tour?
The Credit Note is a preferable option compared to a cash refund as it offers more benefits. It can be utilized for any tour.
Q2. After paying for a tour, will I receive a refund if I cancel?
If the Company cancels your tour, you will receive a refund of the actual amount paid. However, if you cancel the tour, cancellation charges will apply as per the following policy:
Below Policy Is Applicable For Tour Below 1.5 Lacs (Only For Tour Cost Not Airline)
a. 60 days prior to departure date – NIL
b. 45-59 days prior to departure date – Booking amount
c. 30-44 days prior to departure date – 50% of the tour cost
d. 15-29 days prior to departure date – 75% of the tour cost
e. 07-14 days prior to departure date – 90% of the tour cost
f. Less than 7 days – 100%
Below Policy Is Applicable For Tour Above 1.5 Lacs
a. 75 days prior to departure date – NIL
b. 60-74 days prior to departure date – Booking amount
c. 50-59 days prior to departure date – 50% of the tour cost
d. 40-49 days prior to departure date – 75% of the tour cost
e. Less than 40 days prior to departure date – 100% of the tour cost
Q3. Is the booking amount amount refundable?
The booking amount paid at the time of booking is non-refundable and interest-free. It secures your booking at the given price and eligible discount, requiring the entire initial deposit within the stipulated timeline.
Q4. Can I transfer my refund amount to another tour or to someone else's tour?
Yes, your refund amount is transferable to another tour. For transferring it to a friend's or relative's tour, we require a duly signed authority letter from you.
Q5. Is my refund amount adjustable against partial cancellation?
No, the refund amount cannot be adjusted against partial cancellation.
Q6. How long does it take to process a refund?
Typically, refunds take 15-20 working days once the guest agrees on the refund amount. Additional time may be required for operational processes involving airlines and hotels to ensure the best possible refund amount.
Q7. What is the mode of payment for refunds?
Refunds are usually credited using the same mode of payment used for booking the tour. For Credit Card payments, the transaction will be reversed, considering non-refundable bank charges/service fees.
