Collette Tours FAQ & Information

For most tour companies, a group is considered 8 or more passengers traveling together. The group will receive a booking discount and depending on the size of the group, free travel benefits may apply.

You must now decide some key points.

• How long do you want your tour to last? Examples: 7, 10, 14 days or longer.
• What dates are possible that everyone in the group is able to travel? (It is wise to have more than one date available.)
• The itinerary — what areas do you want to tour? Examples: Caribbean, Europe, Alaska, Hawaii, or Eastern U.S. and Canada
• What type of tour are you interested in?
• Fully escorted, leisure style, independent?
• What type of accommodations are you interested in?
• Budget (the least expensive), first class, deluxe or luxury (the most expensive)?
• How many in the group will be bringing children?
• Does anyone in the group need a handicapped cabin or have any special needs.
• Does anyone require air travel and if so from where?
• Do you have anyone who is not an U. S. citizen?
• Will anyone be traveling as a single?

Now that you have discussed the basics with your group, it is time to call your our Tour Specialist to begin getting prices and discuss the particulars that your group will require.

Your tour specialist will be asking the questions that we have listed above. He or she will work with you on prices and the planning materials that will make your job easier. If you feel it necessary, your tour specialist will be able to supply you with informational flyers and brochures to pass out at your next meeting. At this meeting it will be time to pass out the registration forms for those that are interested. This form will have space for the names of the passengers, their address, phone number, choice of cabin type, place for special needs, and whether or not they want travel insurance.

Your tour is a vacation investment and we highly suggest the protection of travel insurance.

The form will also give payment dates. We will keep track of payment dates and automatically charge credit cards at the pre-authorized amounts and times. So you will be free to dream about your upcoming tour vacation. After the forms are filled out your tour specialist will then begin booking your group. A couple of weeks before you tour; your documents will be shipped out. Documents are normally sent to the group leader for distribution.  If they will need to be sent out to various addresses, there may be a minimal charge for shipment.

We hope that these suggestions have been helpful to you. When your group is ready to tour, please call our group department.

Smaller group?

Friendly 5 Discount -Save 5%

(discount per person)

For a group of 5 or more people wanting to travel together there is a discount of 5% (LAND only) per person.

(All bookings must be made at the same time with the same Travel Agent).

Space is limited to one Friendly 5 per motorcoach, so book early. This discount cannot be combined with any other Extra Savings offer. Names of all passengers traveling must be advised to at the time of booking in order to qualify for the Friendly 5 discount.

We take the hassle out of travel, so you have all the fun. Here's how.

Our buying power gets you unbeatable value.

Our tours include your sightseeing, entertainment, admissions to museums and parks, great hotels and many meals, making it a hassle free experience for you from start to finish. Our hotels are centrally located, so you won't waste a second of your free time in buses or cabs. Even your luggage is managed for you.

We planned ahead, so Europe with us is still a bargain.

We can provide a vacation to Europe, for example, at 15% less than you would pay if you planned it on your own. There is no better time than now to buy a packaged vacation.

Imagine seeing Thailand for less than $90 a day, and that includes your hotel.

On our Thailand - Ancient Capitals and Countryside tour, you'll ride an elephant and cruise the Mekong River into Laos, just two unforgettable included experiences among 14 days worth of discoveries You'll also enjoy 26 meals on tour, including a dinner cruise on a rice barge. See the Golden Buddha, the ruins of Ayutthaya and Sukhothai, the colorful pageantry of a Hill Tribe cultural show - it's all included!

It's like traveling with a friend who knows the area.

Your tour manager will be with you every step of the way, handling the tedious details of travel, while you relax and enjoy the trip. They are seasoned professionals with in-depth knowledge about your destination and a passion for sharing it.

Our tour developers personally scout out the best for you.

They search for accommodations, restaurants, attractions and entertainment to assemble not only a fantastic trip, but create an entire experience that captures the spirit of your destination. Learn the secrets of Tuscan cuisine from a Florentine chef in Italy. Fly a kite in China. Feed a kangaroo in Australia. Our tour developers love creating those unforgettable moments that make your trip uniquely yours.

We've got something for everyone, from Branson to Beijing.

Collette Vacations travels to more than 150 destinations on all seven continents. We also offer Explorations by Collette, small-group tours with a maximum of only 16 - 24 passengers that wander off the beaten path. Explorations tours feature boutique hotels, outdoor activities and interaction with local people.

And, we partner with Smithsonian Journeys to bring you learning tours through Smithsonian Journeys Travel Adventures. These tours bring you expert local scientists, historians and artists to illuminate your travels with lectures and demonstrations.

To make your reservation, you can call one of our travel consultants who can answer any questions you may have about Collette and help make your travel arrangements to ensure that you have the best vacation possible. 1.800.942.3301

Nothing to Lose, Everything to Gain...Collette Vacations Waiver Policy

With Collette Vacations No Worries Travel Protection Plan, you have nothing to lose and everything to gain in planning your vacation. That's because our cancellation waiver allows for cancellation at ANY point in the trip planning process, for ANY reason, prior to the day of departure.

This unique program allows you the comfort and safety of continuing to plan your vacation but allows you the option to change your mind should individual circumstances change. Now that's peace of mind!

Top Three Reasons to Purchase Collette Vacations No Worries Travel Protection Plan  

1. You can cancel your trip for ANY reason, at ANY time right up to the day prior to departure! No need to navigate fine print; ANY reason is acceptable!  

2. We are one of only 2 major tour operators who offers a full refund, not vouchers or credits.  

3. Our travel protection plan gives you peace of mind when you are traveling

What exactly is your cancellation waiver?

We have the best cancellation waiver in the industry-period. You can cancel your trip up until the day prior to departure for any reason - sickness, change of heart or any reason whatsoever-and you will receive a full refund, minus the small cost of the insurance. That's a cash refund, not a voucher or certificate. There's no risk when you book with Collette.

But isn't it expensive?

Not at all! Let's say you were planning to take our Italian Vistas tour for 13 days. The land-only waiver is just $170 per person. That breaks down to about $13.07 a day-just a little over eight euros! The land and air waiver is only $30 more. That's airplane peanuts compared to the peace of mind you'll enjoy.

Plus, you're covered on tour.

Our cancellation waiver and insurance plan covers you on tour. If you have to stop your trip or return home early, need medical assistance or evacuation, suffer a baggage loss or delay; or are delayed on tour for 12 hours or more, you're covered.

CANCELLATION WAIVER & INSURANCE PLAN

Exception: If you originally purchased non-refundable airline tickets, the Waiver does not provide a refund for the airline tickets, taxes or fees in the event of a cancellation or a return transportation benefit if you must return home early. The air waiver does not cover medical evacuation or additional expenses associated with a medical emergency.

The Waiver Fee does not cover any single supplement charges which arise from an individual’s traveling companion electing to cancel for any reason prior to departure. In this case, the single supplement will be deducted from the refund of the person who cancels. Division of this charge between the two passengers involved is solely their responsibility. If insufficient funds are deducted from the canceling client, the traveling client will be charged the remaining portion of the single supplement.

Payment of the Waiver Fee (if chosen) must be received by Collette Vacations with your Deposit. The Waiver is non-transferable and valid for each applicant only.

Collette Vacations can assume no responsibility for and cannot be held liable for any wrongful, negligent or unauthorized acts or omissions of any travel agent or travel agency other than that of Collette Travel Service, Inc. itself, and its own employees.

SCHEDULE OF COVERAGES MAXIMUM BENEFIT AMOUNT

PART A – Benefits Provided By Collette Vacations

Pre-Departure Cancellation Fee & Unused Services Waiver Up to Trip Cost

PART B – Benefits Provided by the Insurance Company Listed Below

Accidental Death & Dismemberment $25,000

Accident & Sickness Medical Expense $25,000

Emergency Evacuation & Repatriation $50,000

Travel Delay (Maximum of $100 per Day) $1,500

Baggage and Personal Effects $2,000

Baggage Delay $200

PART B CONDITIONS & LIMITATIONS Certain exclusions and limitations apply and are detailed in the Certificate of Coverage. For example, coverage does not apply to: any sickness or condition of you, a Traveling Companion or an Immediate Family Member traveling with you that existed during the 60 days prior to the effective date of the coverages (this exclusion is waived if your plan payment is received by Collette Vacations within 7 days of your initial deposit/payment for your trip and you are not disabled from travel at the time your plan payment is received), suicide, normal pregnancy, war or any act of war, mental or nervous disorders. A Traveling Companion is defined as a person booked to share accommodations in the same room with you during your trip. Sickness or injury must require care by a Physician and must commence while the Travel Protection Plan is in effect for you. This plan does not cover a loss that results from an illness, disease, or other condition (of you, an Immediate Family Member, Traveling Companion or Business Partner), event or circumstance which occurs at a time when this plan is not in effect for you.

Part B of this plan is underwritten by: Stonebridge Casualty Insurance Company, Columbus, Ohio 464-03

Where to Present Part A Claims

To request a refund under the Cancellation Fee and Unused Services Waiver, please send any unused

airlines tickets (only if purchased from Collette Vacations), a doctor’s note or medical documentation and a written request to:

Collette Vacations

ATTN: Customer Service Department

162 Middle Street

Pawtucket, RI 02860

If cancellation occurs prior to departure, contact the Collette Vacations Reservations Department.

When a client cancels prior to departure any due refunds are processed through the booking agent. Agent commissions are not protected if cancellation occurs prior to departure.

All Inquiries and Claims under Part B should be reported to the Plan Administrator:

Trip Mate*

9225 Ward Parkway, Suite 200

Kansas City, MO 64114

Tel: 800-888-7292

*In CA, dba Trip Mate Insurance Agency

CANCELLATION WAIVER & INSURANCE PLAN PRICING (Per Person)

Land Only Clients

$30 for all domestic escorted tours under 6 days

$110 for all domestic escorted tours of 6 days or more

$110 for all international tours 9 days or under (except cruises, Canadian Rockies Train Tours, Australia, New Zealand, South America, Africa & Egypt)

$170 for international tours 10 days or more (except cruises, Canadian Rockies Train Tours, Australia, New Zealand, South America, Africa & Egypt)

$195 for all Australia, New Zealand, South America, Africa & Egypt

$205 for all cruises and Canadian Rockies Train Tours

When purchasing pre and post night accommodations, including optional extensions, the number of days will be added to the total number of tour days, and may subsequently alter your waiver fees. Please confirm with your reservation agent at time of booking.

Air Inclusive Clients (air is purchased through Collette Vacations)

$60 for all domestic escorted tours under 6 days

$140 for all domestic escorted tours of 6 days or more

$150 for all international tours 9 days or under (except cruises, Canadian Rockies Train Tours, Australia, New Zealand, South America, Africa & Egypt)

$200 for all international tours 10 days or more (except cruises, Canadian Rockies Train Tours, Australia, New Zealand, South America, Africa & Egypt)

$225 for all Australia, New Zealand, South America, Africa & Egypt

$235 for all cruises and Canadian Rockies Train Tours

The Cancellation Waiver fee with air can only be purchased by individuals who have purchased air through Collette Vacations.  

PAYMENTS:  A $250 non-refundable deposit is required at time of booking.

The balance is due 60 days before departure on all tours, except cruises. The balance is due 120 days before departure for cruises.

Payment may be made by charging to clients' Mastercard, Visa, American Express or Discover/Novus (card imprint and signature required) or by sending a check or money order. All rates are guaranteed upon deposit.

REVISION FEES: A handling fee of $25.00 per transaction will be assessed for any change or revision made to a reservation. A change of departure date within 90 days of departure will be treated as a cancellation and cancellation charges will apply.  

TRANSFER AND CANCELLATION CHARGES: Cancellations of confirmed bookings and transfers to new travel dates both result in penalties and fees assessed by travel suppliers. If you have not purchased waivers, and you need to transfer or cancel for any reason prior to tour departure, the following cancellation fees will be assessed (*see cancellation and unused services waiver fees):

More than 60 days prior to departure: a non-refundable deposit will be retained

60 - 16 days prior to departure: 20% of total price

15 - 1 day prior to departure: 40% of total price

Day of departure and after: 100% of total price

Exceptions:

Ocean Cruise Tours (including Alaska, Hawaii, Greece, Caribbean, New England, and California)

90 - 61 days prior to departure: 25% of total price

60 - 31 days prior to departure: 50% of total price

30 - 0 days prior to departure: 100% of total price

River Cruises (including Europe, Russia, Egypt and China)

90 - 61 days prior to departure: 40% of total price

60 - 31 days prior to departure: 75% of total price

30 - 0 days prior to departure: 100% of total price

Galapagos and Antarctica

More than 120 days prior to departure: a non-refundable deposit will be retained

120 - 90 days prior to departure: 50% of total price

89 - 0 days prior to departure: 100% of total price

Upon cancellation of transportation or travel services where you, the customer, are not at fault and have not

cancelled in violation of the terms and conditions above, you will be refunded 100%.  

CONSUMER PROTECTION PLANS

Collette Vacations is a member of the following organizations: The National Tour Association, The United States Tour Operators Association, The Alliance of Canadian Travel Associations, the Travel Industry Council of Ontario, and the Association of British Travel Agents. Some of these associations operate a consumer protection plan to cover deposits placed with any tour operator member. In the case of USTOA, the consumer protection bond is $1 million. Full details are available from the organizations or Collette Vacations. Collette is pleased to give this additional protection to our clients.  

PROOF OF CITIZENSHIP

Please note: ALL non-US citizens, MUST contact the appropriate consulate for entry requirements before traveling.

A valid passport will be required for all trips outside the U.S.A. All passengers should check with the appropriate foreign consulate for entry requirements. Passports and Visas are the responsibility of each client. Government issued identification is required for air travel.

AIR INCLUSIVE RATES

Sample Air Inclusive rates are per person, double, during certain seasons and for specific gateways. Rates are subject to availability and may vary by airline, flight number or routing. Air is available from most major gateways.  

DEPARTURE/SECURITY TAXES & FEES

When purchasing air transportation from Collette, various international departure and arrival fees are not included in the airfare. We will add to your invoice charges for air departure taxes and security fees. Other taxes/fees are to be paid upon exiting the country in local currencies. Please refer to the appropriate tour itinerary for details. Rates are subject to change and are approximate at the time of printing.  

EXPLANATION OF RESPONSIBILITIES AND TOUR CONDITIONS FOR COLLETTE VACATIONS

Any person reserving or purchasing any Collette Vacations product published in this brochure accepts the condition that Collette reserves to itself the exclusive right to change or cancel itineraries, hotels, and other tour components whenever it is deemed necessary. If this occurs, every effort will be made to offer alternate dates and/or programs.

Published times on itineraries are as accurate as possible but subject to change due to traffic, weather, mechanical and any other conditions beyond Collette’s control that prevent Collette Vacations from operating as scheduled. Collette Vacations expressly disclaims any liability for any damages that may be incurred for any changes, cancellations or delays on any itinerary on any Collette tour.

All rates on foreign tours are subject to fluctuations of currency and may be changed when necessary without advance notice prior to deposit.

All rates published are per person as indicated and are based on double occupancy when only one rate is shown. Reservations will be accepted subject to availability at the time of a request and will be considered confirmed only upon receipt of a minimum deposit. Child rates are available upon request. Please call for details.

Collette Vacations does not accept liability in the case of any passenger being denied boarding by any airline carrier due to the carrier’s over-booking of a flight.  

TRAVELERS NEEDING SPECIAL ASSISTANCE

Collette will make reasonable efforts to accommodate the special needs of tour participants. Such participants, however, should be aware that the Americans with Disabilities Act is inapplicable outside of the United States and facilities outside the United States for disabled individuals are sharply limited.

It is strongly recommended that persons requiring assistance be accompanied by a companion who is capable of and totally responsible for providing the assistance. Neither Collette nor its personnel, nor its suppliers, may physically lift or assist clients into transportation vehicles. If a traveler thinks he or she might need assistance during a trip, he or she should call Collette to determine what assistance might reasonably be given. Collette cannot provide special individual assistance to tour members with special needs for walking, dining or other routine activities.  

BAGGAGE DISCLAIMER

Although every effort is made to handle passengers’ luggage as carefully as possible, Collette Vacations is not responsible for and does not assume liability or accept claims for loss of or damage to luggage due to breakage, theft or wear and tear through hotel and group carrier handling.

It is recommended for your own self interest and protection that you have adequate insurance to cover these eventualities. Check with your sales agent for low cost insurance to cover these risks.  

MAPS AND PHOTOS

Maps shown on tour pages are current at the time of printing and may not reflect actual tour routing should the tour change.

GENERAL DISCLAIMER

Neither Collette Travel Services, Inc., its affiliated entities and its and their employees, shareholders, officers, directors, successors, agents, and assigns (collectively “Collette”), own or operate any person or entity which is to or does provide goods or services for these trips. Because neither maintains any control over the personnel, equipment, or operations of these suppliers, Collette assumes no responsibility for and cannot be held liable for any personal injury, death, property damage or other loss, accident, delay, inconvenience, or irregularity which may be occasioned by reason of (1) any wrongful, negligent, willful or unauthorized acts or omissions on the part of any of the suppliers or other employees or agents, (2) any defect in or failure of any vehicle, equipment, or instrument owned, operated or otherwise used by any of these suppliers, or (3) any wrongful, willful or negligent act or omission on the part of any other party not under the supervision and control of Collette.

Additionally, responsibility is not accepted for losses or expenses due to sickness, lack of appropriate medical facilities or practitioners, weather, strikes, theft or other criminal acts, war, terrorism, computer problems, or other such causes. All services and accommodations are subject to the laws of the country in which they are provided. Collette reserves the right to make changes in the published itinerary whenever, in their sole judgment, conditions warrant, or if they deem it necessary for the comfort, convenience, or safety of the tour. They reserve the right to withdraw any tour announced. Both parties reserve the right to decline to accept any person as a member of the tour, or to require any participant to withdraw from the tour at any time, when such action is determined by the tour manager to be in the best interests of the health, safety, and general welfare of the tour group or of the individual participant. Neither does Collette accept liability for any carrier’s cancellation penalty incurred by the purchase of a non-refundable airline or other ticket to the tour departure city and return or otherwise. Baggage and personal effects are the sole responsibility of the owner at all times.

Participants may be photographed for the promotional purposes of Collette. Payment of the deposit to Collette constitutes acceptance of these terms and conditions.  

ARBITRATION

I agree that any dispute concerning, relating, or referring to this contract, the brochure or any other literature concerning my trip, or the trip itself, shall be resolved exclusively by binding arbitration according to the then existing rules of the American Arbitration Association in Rhode Island. Such proceedings will be governed by substantive Rhode Island law.  

Special Offers and Discounting Policy

Collette may periodically offer special deals on certain tours and departure dates. These special offers unless otherwise noted, are land only, valid on new retail bookings only and not combinable with any other offer. Please also refer to our Privacy Policy for more information.

Collette Vacations also has a policy on discounting. The Collette policy is to not promise a discount off Collette prices (either explicit or implicit). Percentage-off offers are prohibited, as are statements that say, "We discount Collette tours." This policy is in effect for all types of online advertising, including (but not limited to) Collette promotion on a company web site, search engine or email marketing campaign.

Collette maintains the right to refuse bookings from any partner who does not comply with this policy to our satisfaction.  

Online Privacy Policy

At Atlas Cruises and Tours, your right to privacy is a primary concern. That's why we help you maintain control over your personal data on the Internet. We adhere to strict guidelines for protecting the information you provide us during a visit to our site.

There are several areas on our site where we request information from you. When making reservations, we ask you for your name, email address, and other relevant personal information that is needed to make reservations.

In the case of newsletters notifying you of travel specials and information, you may "unsubscribe" to these at any time.

What other information should I know about my privacy?

This site contains links to other Web sites. Please note that when you click on one of these links, you are entering another Web site for which this site has no responsibility. We encourage you to read the privacy statements of all such sites as their policies may be materially different from our Privacy Statement. Of course, you are solely responsible for maintaining the secrecy of your passwords and any account information. Please be very careful, responsible, and alert with this information, especially whenever you're online.

Confidentiality

The information you provide to this site will be kept confidential and used to support your customer relationship with Atlas Cruises & Tours Information regarding you or your travel purchase will not be given or sold to any outside organization for its use in marketing or solicitation.

Sign up for our Email Newsletter

___________________________________________________________________________

Terms & Conditions for the use of this site

PLEASE READ THESE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF USE CAREFULLY BEFORE USING THIS SITE. Your use of this site is expressly conditioned on your acceptance of the following terms and conditions. By using this site, you signify your assent to these terms and conditions. If you do not agree with any part of the following terms and conditions, you must not use this site.

TERMS OF USE

Atlas Cruises and Tours maintains this site (the "Site") for your personal entertainment and information. Please feel free to browse the Site. You may download material displayed on the Site for non-commercial, personal use only provided you also retain all copyright and other proprietary notices contained on the materials. You may not, however, distribute, modify, transmit, reuse, or use the content of the Site for public or commercial purposes, including the text, and images, without Atlas Cruises and Tours' written permission. Your access to and use of the Site is also subject to the following terms and conditions and all applicable laws. By accessing and browsing the Site, you accept, without limitation or qualification, these Terms and Conditions. If you do not agree to these Terms and Conditions, please do not use the Site. For information on your privacy online, please review our Privacy Policy.

1. SITE OWNERSHIP. This site is the copyrighted property of Atlas Cruises & Tours, and/or its various third party providers and distributors. Much of the content found on this site is owned by third party providers and distributors, and other leisure travel information providers. None of the content or data found on this site may be reproduced, republished, distributed, sold, transferred, or modified without the express written permission of Atlastravelweb.com and/or its third party providers and distributors. Nothing contained on this site should be construed as granting, by implication, or otherwise, any license or right to use any of the Trademarks without the written permission of Atlastravelweb.com or such other party that may own the Trademarks. You should assume that everything you see or read on the Site is copyrighted unless otherwise noted, and may not be used except as provided in these Terms and Conditions without the written permission of Atlas Cruises and Tours.

2. Copyright, License. The entire contents of the Site are protected by international copyright laws. The owner of the copyrights are atlastravelweb.com, its affiliates or other third party licensors. YOU MAY NOT MODIFY, COPY, REPRODUCE, REPUBLISH, UPLOAD, TRANSMIT, OR DISTRIBUTE, IN ANY MANNER, THE MATERIAL ON THE SITE, INCLUDING TEXT, GRAPHICS, CODE. You may print portions of material from the different areas of the Site solely for your own non-commercial use provided that you agree not to change or delete any copyright or proprietary notices from the materials. We do take copyright laws very seriously. We will go after copyright violators.

3. Information is Not Warranted Or Guaranteed In Any Way. Atlas Cruises & Tours is provided on an "as is, as available" basis. Atlas Cruises & Tours does not warrant or guarantee 1) the accuracy, adequacy, quality, currentness, validity, completeness, or suitability of any Information for any purpose; 2) that any Information will be free of infection by viruses, worms, Trojan horses or anything else manifesting contaminating or destructive properties; 3) that the Information will not contain adult-oriented material, or material which some individuals may deem objectionable; or 4) that the functions or services performed by Atlas Cruises & Tours will be uninterrupted or error-free or that defects will be corrected. Atlas Cruises & Tours assumes no responsibility, and shall not be liable for, any damages to, or viruses that may infest your computer equipment or other property.

4. USE OF SITE. You may only use this site to make legitimate reservations or purchases and shall not use this site for any other purposes, including without limitation, to make any speculative, false or fraudulent reservation or any reservation in anticipation of demand. This site and the content provided in this site may not be copied, reproduced, republished, uploaded, posted, transmitted or distributed without the written permission of Atlas Cruises & Tours, except that you may print one copy of the materials presented on this site on a single computer for your personal, non-commercial use only. Unauthorized use of this site and/or the materials contained on this site may violate applicable copyright, trademark or other intellectual property laws or other laws. You must retain all copyright and trademark notices, including any other proprietary notices, contained in the materials.

You agree that the travel services reservations facilities of this Web site shall be used only to make legitimate reservations or purchases for you or for another person for whom you are legally authorized to act. You warrant to Atlas Cruises & Tours that you will not use this Web site for any purpose that is unlawful or prohibited by these terms, conditions and notices. Without limitation, any speculative, false or fraudulent reservation or any reservation in anticipation of demand is prohibited. You also warrant that all information supplied by you or members of your household in using this Web site is true and accurate.

Atlas Cruises & Tours is acting as an agent for Travel Suppliers in selling travel related services, or in accepting reservations or bookings for services that are not directly supplied by our travel agency. Atlas Cruises & Tours, 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 traveling companions or group members. We do not guarantee any of such suppliers' rates, bookings, reservations, connections, scheduling, and any other faults.

Atlas Cruises and Tours 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, climatic conditions, abnormal conditions or developments, or any other actions, omissions, or conditions outside the travel agent's control.

You, the Traveler assumes complete and full responsibility for, and hereby releases the travel agent from, any duty of checking and verifying any and all passport, visa, vaccination, or other entry requirements of each destination, and all safety and security and security conditions of such destinations, during the length of the proposed travel. Click here for a list of popular travel tips and advisories.

5. LIABILITY & WARRANTY

Atlas Cruises & Tours wants you to know that all information and prices of the packages, tours and cruises on this website are subject to availability and are subject to change without any notice. Please use our website for purposes of planning your vacation. All the material that you find on this or any website must be confirmed with a travel consultant prior to making any final travel plans or placing a deposit which may be non-refundable in some cases. Many travel suppliers will charge you a penalty fee for canceling or changing certain reservations.

6. AGE AND RESPONSIBILITY. You represent and warrant that you are of sufficient legal age to use this site and to create binding legal obligations for any liability you may incur as a result of the use of this site. You agree to be financially responsible for all of your use of this Web site. You agree to abide by the terms or conditions of purchase imposed by any supplier with whom you elect to deal, including, but not limited to, payment of all amounts when due and compliance with all rules and restrictions regarding availability of fares, products, or services. You shall be completely responsible for all charges, fees, duties, taxes, and assessments arising out of the use of this Web site. You the traveler, are in charge of retention of tickets, reservations, tour documents, cruise documents, travel agency invoice or bookings after issuance of these documents.

Atlas Cruises & Tours neither controls nor operates, nor is it responsible for the actions of independent contractors such as airlines, cruise lines, tour operators or ground transporters. Atlas Cruises & Tours denies any responsibility or liability for late arrival of your cruise, or flight, or for any illness, injury, damage, loss of cruise time or other irregularities resulting therefrom. Atlas Cruises & Tours' responsibility does not extend beyond its responsibility in facilitating your payment to the particular vendors. Please check with your respective government agencies, embassies or consulates that your passport is valid and that all necessary visas, certificates and other documentation are in order. Any and all consequences and/or expenses for improper, inadequate or invalid documentation are the responsibility of the passenger.

7. PRIVACY POLICY. The information you provide to Atlas Cruises & Tours will be kept confidential and used to support your customer relationship with Atlas Cruises & Tours. Information regarding you or your travel purchase will not be given or sold to any outside organization for its use in marketing or solicitation. As a user of the Web site you will occasionally receive updates from us about sales, special offers, services and noteworthy news. We hope you will find these updates interesting and informative. If you would rather not receive them, please send an e-mail message with the subject

"No newsletter".

8. LINKS TO THIRD-PARTY SITES. Reference herein to any products, services, processes, hypertext links to third parties or other information by trade name, trademark, manufacturer, supplier or otherwise does not constitute or imply its endorsement, sponsorship or recommendation by atlastravelweb.com. We have provided links to certain other World Wide Web sites solely for the convenience of

Web users, and Atlas Cruises & Tours is not responsible for the content of other sites. Product and service information are the sole responsibility of each individual vendor and/or Web site provider.

9. DISPUTE RESOLUTION. Atlas Cruises & Tours participates in the Better Business Bureau. We pledge to you, our customer, that our firm will cooperate with BBB conciliation or mediation should claim arise out of the purchase of a service from Atlas Cruises and Tours. Within specific limits as to the scope and type of claim, we will agree to mutually binding arbitration.

10. GOVERNING LAW. This Agreement and its performance shall be governed by the laws of the state of Florida, United States of America, without regard to its conflict of laws provisions. Unless otherwise specified, the materials in the site are presented solely for the purpose of promoting travel programs, services, and other products available in the United States, its territories, possessions and protectorates. Any offer for any travel programs, services, or products, made in the Materials is void where prohibited. This site is controlled and operated by Atlas Cruises and Tours from its office within the State of Florida, United States of America. Atlas Cruises & Tours makes no representation that Materials in the site are appropriate or available for use

in other locations and other countries. Those who choose to access this site from other locations do so on their own initiative and are responsible for compliance with local laws, if and to the extent local laws are applicable. This agreement shall be governed by, construed and enforced in accordance with the laws of the State of Florida, as it is applied to agreements entered into and to be performed entirely within such State. Any action you, any third party or Atlas Cruises & Tours bring to enforce this agreement or, in connection with, any matters related to this site shall be brought only in either the state or Federal Courts located in Palm Beach County, Florida, and you expressly consent to the jurisdiction of said courts.

11. MODIFICATION. Atlas Cruises & Tours may at any time modify these terms and conditions and your continued use of this site will be conditioned upon the terms and conditions in force at the time of your use.

12. OTHER. This agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Florida, without giving effect to any principles of conflicts of law. If any provision of this agreement shall be unlawful, void, or for any reason unenforceable, then that provision shall be deemed severable from this agreement and shall not affect the validity and enforceability of any remaining provisions. This is the entire agreement between the parties relating to the subject matter herein and shall not be modified except in writing, signed by both parties.

Where do I meet my tour manager?

Your tour will begin at your first hotel. The tour manager will make contact with you at the hotel and will provide details relating to your tour. The hotel address and phone number will be included in your documents.

Are triple accommodations available?

Triple accommodations are available at most hotels, however, the types of beds may vary. Some hotels may only have two double beds and a cot may be added to the room at an additional cost. Please check with your travel agent at time of booking

What is a Hosted Tour?

Collette offers pre and post extensions on selected tours. These extensions and some of Collette's other tours may be "hosted" rather than escorted when there are 15 or fewer passengers. When hosted, passengers will be greeted upon arrival by a local representative or ground operator guide; however, they will not be escorted to all activities and functions. The local guides will be available "on-call" for passengers should they have any questions during the tour.

Can Collette Vacations book our airline reservations?

Collette Vacations is happy to assist you in accommodating your flight needs. Due to tour scheduling and limited availability you are strongly encouraged to take advantage of Collette’s air packages. We are not responsible for air arrangements you have made on your own. On occasion, it is necessary to change tour dates. In this case, we can only protect air reservations booked through Collette Vacations. For all air reservations, it is strongly recommended to reconfirm flights before departure, in the event that the airline has an unexpected schedule change. We cannot assume responsibility for schedule changes, routings or flight cancellations involving the airlines.

Would my tour date ever be changed?

Collette Vacations reserves the right to cancel any tour prior to departure for any reason. Should this happen, Collette Vacations will make every effort to protect you on another departure date and if an alternate cannot be found, a full refund will be made. Air booked through Collette Vacations will be protected. We cannot be held responsible for other air arrangements.

Should you decide to change your tour date, a handling fee of $25 per transaction will be charged for any alteration made to a reservation. This includes name changes. (Revisions to air tickets are subject to the rules and regulations of the airline and fare type purchased. Revision rates vary.) A change of tour date or tour itinerary within the guidelines of the cancellation policy will be treated as a cancellation and regular cancellation fees may apply. See Cancellation Policy.

Do you accept late bookings?

Tour sales normally close 7 days prior to departure. All late bookings are on request and must be guaranteed with a credit card if within 60 days of departure date. A late booking fee of $25.00 may be assessed to cover express mailing of documents and other expenses incurred.

What is not included in the tour price?

The land price does not include air travel, airline fees, airport or departure taxes, transfers, visas, customary end of trip gratuities for your tour manager, driver, local guides, hotel housekeepers, cruise ship wait staff, and any incidental charges.

The following are included in your tour package: transportation via motorcoach, accommodations, luggage handling, meals, sightseeing, admission charges, and applicable gratuities for bellmen, doormen and dining room wait staff. (Customary gratuities for cruise ship personnel, overnight passenger train personnel, hotel housekeeping staff, local sightseeing guides, drivers and Collette tour managers have not been included.)

Special Note: Your travel dates may be during religious, state or local holidays. These holidays, with their associated closures, may disrupt museum/attraction visits and personal shopping time.

We make every effort to minimize disruptions during the tour, however, we cannot be held responsible for attractions being closed.

Do I need a Passport?

A valid Passport is required for trips outside the USA. We strongly recommend that you have a valid passport (with six month validity) for all travel outside the United States. You are strongly urged to contact the appropriate consulate for additional details.

Should I bring my walking shoes?

At Collette, we pride ourselves on bringing travelers the very best experiences a destination offers. Our itineraries include many activities and may consist of walking on uneven terrain or significant walking at times. Some of the most unique sightseeing can mean accessing locations that restrict motorcoaches, especially in historic areas. For your comfort, we recommend bringing walking shoes.  

What is a home stay in New Zealand?

A Home Stay provides you with a unique opportunity to enjoy the hospitality of friendly New Zealanders in the comfort of their homes. You can meet people who are genuinely interested in sharing their country, their lifestyle, and themselves, with international visitors. You stay in a guest room within the home, and become part of the family for the evening.

We pride ourselves on the quality of our host families. Each host family is selected on the basis of the following criteria: overall presentation of the home (external/internal appearance, cleanliness, comfort) friendliness/hospitality of the host family genuine desire to meet people quality and availability of guest rooms

If participating in a home stay, it is suggested that you bring a small gift from home for your host family. If you do not wish to participate in a home stay and are traveling on these featured itineraries, please notify us at the time of reservation.

Are airport transfers included in the escorted tour price?

Roundtrip airport-to-hotel transfers are provided FREE for all passengers who purchase airfare through Collette Vacations. These transfers are available on the first and last day of the tour date and do not apply to pre and post night stays.

Passengers who do not purchase airfare through Collette can purchase transfers at an additional cost of $100 per person, round trip. Some restrictions may apply.

Does Collette Vacations offer consumer protection plans?

Collette Vacations is a member of the following organizations: The National Tour Association, The United States Tour Operators Association, The Alliance of Canadian Travel Associations, the Travel Industry Council of Ontario, the Australian Federation of Travel Agents, and the Association of British Travel Agents. Some of these associations operate a consumer protection plan to cover deposits placed with any tour operator member. In the case of USTOA, the consumer protection bond is $1 million. Full details are available from the organizations listed above or Collette Vacations by request.

What forms of payment are accepted?

Collette Vacations gladly accepts checks, money orders, American Express, Visa, MasterCard and Discover/Novus.

How do I make my reservation?

Once you have decided which vacation you wish to take, Collette strongly recommends you visit your professional travel agent. Your travel agent can assist you and make your reservation for you. Please call 1-800-942-3301 to speak to an agent.

Can I purchase hotel nights before the tour begins or after the vacation ends?

Collette Vacations offers pre and post hotel stays on many escorted tours. Most hotels offer Collette guests special rates, which are available upon request on a space-available basis. The services of a Collette tour manager are not included in pre and post stays.  

What is your cancellation waiver policy?

The land and air cancellation waivers are non-refundable and must be purchased at the time deposit is made. The air cancellation waiver can only be purchased by individuals who have purchased air through Collette Vacations and do not cover non-refundable airline tickets. Collette Vacations is not responsible for penalties imposed by airlines. The waivers should be purchased at time of deposit, however may be purchased with final payment if you are booking within 60 days before departure.  

Are there documentation requirements for entry into any countries visited?

All clients should contact the appropriate consulate for entry requirements. In addition, passengers are advised to carry a photo I.D. on all domestic and international tours. Passports and visas are required for U.S. citizens for certain countries. Please contact us for details. However, requirements do change, so we urge you to confirm these with the appropriate consulate.

When will I receive my documents?

Documents will normally be mailed two weeks prior to departure (provided full payment has been received). The tour manager will carry documents for tours, which include cruise segments.

What is an Optional Tour?  

These are activities that may enhance your trip experience; however, we leave that for you to decide. These are not included in the tour price and you will need to pay an additional cost if you choose to participate in an option. Your tour manager will have a list of available options and the associated costs.

On most tours, final documentation will include a listing of optional tours which you may participate in while on vacation. These options have been added in order to enhance your vacation. All options have been selected because of their quality, customer service and value to our clients. Reservations for optional tours are made directly with the tour manager (unless otherwise indicated). We ask that payment be made to the tour manager in the form of a credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover/Novus accepted), or personal check

Do you rotate seats on tours?

Seats are rotated on all Collette tours under the direction of the tour manager. So that we do not show partiality among passengers, exceptions cannot be made. Please Note: All Collette tours feature a NO SMOKING POLICY. Frequent stops are made for your convenience.

Seats are rotated for the benefit of our tour guests. Rotation fosters communication between travelers as well as with the tour manager and enables our guests to enjoy a variety of vantage points on the motorcoach. Guests will rotate seats at least once a day on all tours, as directed by the tour manager. In fairness to all, there will be no exceptions to this policy.

What if I arrive late and miss a feature of the tour?

No refunds can be made for unused portions of any tour due to late arrivals or early departures.

Do itinerary variations occur?

In the unlikely event that services included in the tour cannot be supplied, or there are changes in an itinerary for reasons beyond the control of the company, Collette Vacations will arrange for the provision of comparable services.

How much luggage can be taken on tour?

Due to limited motorcoach capacity, one piece of luggage per person is allowed. If you wish to bring luggage in excess of the above limitation, your tour manager will collect a charge of $4.00 per bag per hotel. There is no charge for carry-on luggage. Important: Luggage restrictions vary by airline and destination. Please contact your scheduled airline of service for specific requirements regarding checked and carry-on luggage.

PACK LIGHT! Due to the limited motorcoach capacity, one carry-on (36 inches in length, height and width; not to exceed 11 lbs./5.2 kg.) and one checked luggage (62 inches in length, height and width; not to exceed 50 lbs./23 kg.) are allowed. Please consult with your scheduled airline as luggage restrictions vary by carrier and destination. If you exceed the limit of 2 bags, we cannot guarantee that your additional luggage will be able to fit in the vehicle. Storage or shipment of additional luggage will be at your own expense. If we are able to accommodate your additional luggage, we will assess a $4 per hotel per bag fee.

Heavy bags are costly and painful! 50 Lbs. is MAX! Additional weight is subject to airline surcharges.

On safari tours, soft duffel bag luggage is required rather than a suitcase as storage space on safari vans is limited.

Please remember to label your luggage and important items with your name, home address and telephone number. We recommend labeling your luggage on both outside and inside of the bag. Please attach the BLUE luggage tag and the plastic OVAL Collette Vacations tag to your luggage. We cannot assume liability or accept claims for loss or damage to luggage and personal effects due to breakage, theft or normal wear and tear that results from hotel, airline and group carrier handling. It is in your best interest to have adequate insurance (such as our comprehensive "No Worries Travel Protection") to cover these eventualities.  

Can I request a specific seat assignment on the airplane?

We will take requests for seating on all air flights, and try to honor them to the best of our ability. Sometimes airplane seat maps will not allow this and therefore you will receive your seat assignment at the airport. Please check with your travel agent/tour coordinator when making a reservation and we will do our best to honor your request.  

Do you take room requests?

We will take room requests and try to honor them to the best of our ability. Please check with your travel agent/tour coordinator when making a reservation and we will do our best to honor your request.

What is the difference between a twin room and a double room?

A double room is designed to accommodate two people, but may not have two separate beds. A twin bedded room has two separate beds of any size, and is the type most commonly utilized.

____________________________________________________________

PACKING MEDICATION

If you are taking prescription medication, please be sure to take an adequate supply for your tour and a few additional days, in original prescription containers. Medication should be packed in your carry-on baggage (never in checked luggage). You may want to carry an extra prescription in case medication is lost.  

SMOKING POLICY

There is a “No Smoking” policy on all tours. For the comfort and convenience of all tour guests, you may not smoke while on the motorcoach. During the tour, your motorcoach will make frequent stops for the convenience of both our smoking and nonsmoking patrons. Your tour manager will strictly enforce the No Smoking Policy. Many airlines and restaurants may also have “no smoking” policies in effect.  

TRAVELERS NEEDING SPECIAL ASSISTANCE

In compliance with the Americans With Disabilities Act, Collette Vacations will make reasonable efforts to accommodate the special needs of tour participants. Persons requiring individual assistance must be accompanied by a companion who is capable of, and totally responsible for, providing the necessary assistance. Neither Collette Vacations personnel nor its suppliers may physically lift or assist clients onto transportation vehicles.

Collette Vacations regrets that it cannot provide individual assistance to a tour member who has special mobility, dietary or other like needs.

In order that we may better serve you, please ask your booking agent for a Special Needs form if applicable. We ask that this form be filled out and submitted to us six weeks prior to your departure date so that we can make appropriate arrangements and inform your Collette tour manager.

NOTE: The Americans With Disabilities Act does not apply outside of the United States.  

MOTORCOACH EQUIPMENT/SAFARI VANS

Collette does not own or operate transportation vehicles, however, we charter the best coaches available worldwide. Whenever possible we use modern, temperature controlled vehicles that have many amenities. Coach size may vary based upon the number of tour patrons. In certain countries lavatory equipped motorcoaches are not available. If this is the case, frequent stops will be made en route.

In Africa, safari vans accommodate up to 7 passengers and their luggage. Unlike motorcoaches, vans are not equipped with lavatory facilities. Frequent stops are made en route.

Special Notes for Regional Motorcoach Tours: As a service to our New England motorcoach clients, we may utilize van, limousine, motorcoach or taxi service to transport our guests between the various departure locations. This allows us to provide optimum service from convenient departure points.

Please make the necessary transportation arrangements with friends and/or relatives to bring you to your departure location. Over-night parking is NOT ALLOWED at any of the designated departure locations. We cannot assume responsibility for vehicles that are towed and/or damaged by vandalism.

HOTELS

Every hotel on a Collette tour is carefully selected for quality, comfort and location. Hotel accommodations are as listed on your itinerary. Rooms include private facilities unless otherwise specified. On some programs, there are a limited number of single rooms. Triple rooms, normally a standard double room with a cot or rollaway bed added, are available on some programs. When triples are not available, appropriate charges for single and twin accommodations will be assessed.

Collette Vacations makes every effort to accommodate your specific requests. We forward all special requests to the properties. Unfortunately, these requests cannot be guaranteed as hotels may not always be able to honor them.

Check-in times are set by individual hotel properties and vary by hotel. Depending on your arrival time, there may be a delay in gaining access to your room as most hotels offer afternoon check-ins. Please prepare accordingly. We ask guests to observe check-out times at all properties as designated by the hotel.

Some hotels require a credit card imprint be taken upon check-in in order to activate telephones in the rooms and for potential incidental charges. Most hotels charge an access fee for using phones in hotel rooms. Please check with the front desk personnel at each hotel for specific policies.

NOTE: In certain countries, hotel rooms tend to be smaller than standard U.S. accommodations. Also, non-smoking rooms may be less readily available than in the United States. Please be assured that Collette Vacations uses high quality properties throughout each country.  

NAME BADGES

Collette Vacations provides name badges to our travelers in order to facilitate conversation among fellow travelers. The name badge also ensures that a Collette Vacations representative can easily recognize you, especially at airports upon arrival (applicable if you have purchased airport transfers through Collette Vacations). Please print your name clearly with permanent marker in the space provided.

PACKING TIPS AND HELPFUL HINTS FOR YOUR TOUR

Bring a camera, film, and batteries. Be sure to bring enough photography supplies for your entire trip. If you have a video camera, bring along an extra battery, plus proper recharging equipment. Due to new security screening, we recommend that you store your camera and extra film in your carry-on luggage.

Bring a notebook or trip diary and pen.

Remember sunglasses, tissues, aspirin, toiletries, cosmetics.

Bring a travel alarm clock, a sewing kit, travel iron and a hair dryer. (There are ironing facilities at many of the hotels. Many hotels also have hair dryers in the room.)

Remember any special medication you may need (enough for entire trip and a few additional days) and an extra prescription.

Pack items that may leak in plastic bags.

Do not pack jewelry, money, traveler’s checks, medications, or articles of value in your checked luggage.

In many cases, laundry services are available to you at the hotel, for an additional charge.

As a precaution, we suggest that you divide the contents of your suitcase with your traveling companion.

Don’t over pack. Leave room for souvenirs that you plan to take back home. Pack an extra carry-on bag.

Fly in comfortable clothing and shoes. Bringing a sweater on flights is advised since temperatures can vary when flying.

Drink plenty of water and juice on the long-haul segments of your trip. Bring a bottle of water. You may want to avoid alcoholic beverages during the flight, as they are dehydrating.

Exercise on board the aircraft.

Bring books, magazines and snacks for your flight(s).

Bring a copy of your passport/identification. Pack it separately from the original. Leave a copy at home with your emergency contact.

Leave a copy of your tour itinerary at home with your emergency contact.