Terms & Conditions
In my heart I don’t believe anybody should need T&C’s. I will do everything possible to help in any way possible so that we can all have a great experience in respect of each other. I value and honour my relationship with all beings so I will always apply my heart qualities to anything I do. However, just to be on the safe side with someone that may not share my views, please read these terms and conditions carefully – they are important.
These Terms and Conditions form the basis of the contract between Monique Brignoni hereafter referred to as “MB” and the participant, hereafter referred to as “participant”. No modifications to the Terms and Conditions will be accepted.
1. Participant Information
1.1 The participant is required to complete a Traveler’s Information Sheet upon booking on the retreat. This document must be completed and signed within 14 days from the date the booking is made. The participation of the participant on any retreat or workshop will be declined in the absence of the signed documents, with no refund given.
1.2 The participant is responsible for providing correct information regarding personal details.
MB will not be responsible for costs incurred due to incorrect, incomplete or inaccurate information.
2. Payment
2.1 A non-refundable deposit is required to reserve a place for the participant on a MB retreat/workshop. Deposit payments may be made by bank transfer or by credit or debit card through the link provided on the website. All payment processing fees, including but not limited to PayPal-Stripe fees and bank transfer fees, have to be paid by the participant.
2.2 Where a deposit has been paid to secure a booking, the balance of the retreat/workshop fee is due 90 days prior to the commencement of the retreat. Payments may be made by bank transfer or by credit or debit card through the link provided on the website. All payment processing fees, including but not limited to PayPal, Stripe fees and bank transfer fees, have to be paid by the participant. Should this final payment fail to reach MB or its agent by the date specified then MB reserves the right to treat the booking as cancelled and retain the deposit.
3. Cancellation and Refund Policies
3.1 The following payment, cancellation and refund policy will apply in the case of individual bookings or group bookings specific payment, cancellation and refund terms can be negotiated and agreed upon by separate contract. In the case of cancellation of a booking, which must be done in writing by the participant, the following terms will apply:
· Cancellation received up to 180 days prior to departure: there will be a full refund of the deposit received less a €500 EURO per person processing fee.
· Cancellation received between 179 and 120 days prior to departure: there will be no refund of the deposit paid.
· Cancellation received between 119 and the departure date: there will be no refund whatsoever. MB shall not be liable for any special or consequential damages, whether known or unknown, neither for any costs of air ticket, hotel or similar expenses that the participant may have incurred in or will incur in, under any circumstances whatsoever.
3.1.1 No partial refunds are made for unused services or portions of a retreat/workshop for any reason whatsoever. Retreats/workshops are sold as a package only. This policy also applies to retreat extensions. Cancellation fees are not transferable.
3.2. Prices
The prices of retreats/workshops are indicated in Euro. Prices quoted are based on tariffs, exchange rates in effect at time of publication and are subject to change prior to departure. Substantial changes in taxes, tariffs, exchange rates or other reasons can increase the cost of the retreat arrangements significantly. MB reserves the right to alter prices or introduce surcharges accordingly, even when payment has already been received in full.
3.2.1 Should a change in price become necessary, the participant will then have the choice of accepting the change, transferring to an alternative retreat/workshop (and where this is of a lower price MB will refund the difference) or withdrawing from the contract and accepting a refund of all monies paid to MB, always considering the cancellation policy. MB is not responsible for any expenses incurred by the participant relating to this clause.
3.2.2 Where an alteration is necessary and the alteration constitutes a substantial change to the retreat/workshop described in the Information Pack then the participant will then have the choice of accepting the alteration, transferring to an alternative retreat/workshop (and where this is of a lower price MB will refund the difference) or withdrawing from the contract and accepting a refund of all monies paid to MB always considering the cancellation policy. MB is not responsible for any expenses incurred by the participant relating to this clause.
3.3 MB reserves the right to make any changes deemed necessary to the itinerary or to substitute hotels, modes of transport, vessels, or guides to those mentioned in the literature.
3.4 MB makes a best effort to accurately price retreats in advance but due to the nature of operating these types of retreats/workshops prices are subject to change at any time. Where a price change is necessary the terms detailed in clause 3.2 (above) will apply.
3.5 The receipt of a deposit does not imply acceptance of a booking. MB will confirm acceptance of the booking in writing and it is at the time MB sends out this confirmation that a contract comes into existence between MB and the participant.
4. Logistics
4.1 In the event of the specified tour leader being unable to attend due to illness or other circumstances beyond the control of MB then another tour leader will be provided.
4.2 Where airport and/or hotel transfers are included in the cost of the retreat/workshop, such transfers are only guaranteed when the participant travels on the flight(s) specified by MB. MB will always seek to accommodate the participant arriving or departing on different flights. However, when this is impractical, the participant will be responsible for his or her own transfer costs and arrangements.
4.3 In the event that MB is unable to provide after departure a significant proportion of the services the participant has booked, then MB will make alternative arrangements for the participant at no extra charge.
4.4 If the participant has special dietary or other requests then he or she should inform MB of these requirements prior to departure. MB will advise the relevant people of the requirements of the participant but MB cannot guarantee that such requests will be met and will have no liability to the participant if such requests are not met.
4.5 The type of retreat/workshops MB offers requires flexibility on the part of the participant and the participant must allow for alternatives. For this reason the itinerary and retreat /workshop description must be taken as an indication of what may take place on the retreat/workshop and not as a contractual obligation on the part of MB.
4.6 Refunds will not be given for unused hotel rooms, meals, unused rental equipment, missed days due to late arrival or any other modified retreat arrangements for any reason whatsoever. Retreat/workshop costs are quoted as a package and credits are not given for services not used by the participant.
5. Travel arrangements and delays
5.1 All travel to and from the retreat/workshop starting point is the sole responsibility of the participant.
5.2 The cost of delays is not included if any retreat/workshops must be delayed due to bad weather, transportation delays, government intervention, sickness or other contingency for which MB cannot make provision. The retreat/workshop start and end dates will not be extended in the event of a late arrival. The participant is not entitled to a credit or refund should the retreat be of a shorter duration than planned as a result of late arrival, regardless of cause.
6. Compulsory withdrawals and declined bookings
6.1 MB reserves the right to require the participant to withdraw form a retreat/workshop at any time if the retreat/workshop leader deems his or her actions or conduct to be detrimental to the operation of the retreat/workshop or incompatible with the interests, harmony, comfort or welfare of other participant.
6.2 The participant must at all times follow the instructions of the retreat/workshop leader, guides and staff. Should an individual be overly confident, eager or reckless in approaching an animal, the participant may be withdrawn from the retreat/workshop. Any fines imposed by Government or other legally recognized authorities and levied due to the actions of the participant shall be the sole liability of the participant.
6.3 Any expenses incurred due to the participant’s removal from a retreat/workshop will be the responsibility of the participant. In such cases, no refund or credit will be payable or due to the participant. In the event a participant decides that he or she would like to leave the retreat early, all costs will be at the participant’s expense and no refund or credit will be given.
6.4 Should MB be charged with fines by any wildlife officer or authority due to the reckless behaviour of the participant, these fines will have to be paid by the participant.
6.5 MB reserves the right to cancel the participant booking at any time and for any reason whatsoever. MB’s decision to cancel a booking on any retreat/workshop shall be at its sole an absolute discretion. Should MB cancel a booking it will refund all payments received from the participant and this will be the limit of MB’s liability.
6.6 Any expenses incurred by the participant relating to a declined booking shall be the responsibility of the participant.
7. Losses and liability
7.1 MB does not accept liability for any loss or additional expenses incurred by the participant and caused by delay or interruption to travel services for any reason including but not limited to weather, civil disturbance, industrial action, strikes, wars, environment or sickness. Such losses or additional expenses are the responsibility of the participant.
7.2 MB does not accept responsibility or liability for death, bodily injury or illness caused to the participant or any other person included in the booking unless arising from the negligent act of MB, MB employees (whilst acting in the course of his or her employment). Any claims shall be subject to English law in respect of any question of liability or quantum and all proceedings shall be within the exclusive domain of the English courts.
7.3 The participant must communicate any perceived failure in the performance of this contract immediately to the tour leader thus giving the tour leader the opportunity to achieve a satisfactory solution. Should this not be possible then the participant should make his or her complaint known to MB in writing within 28 days of the completion of the retreat/workshop.
8. Insurance
8.1 MB does not carry health, life, property, travel or injury insurance for the participant. The participant is strongly advised to obtain appropriate travel insurance prior to commencement of the retreat/workshop that should include extended medical insurance, emergency evacuation, cancellation due to Foreign & Commonwealth Office or other competent warnings not to travel, cancellation and personal property.
8.2 The participant is responsible for any medical expenses they incur. MB will not pay for any expenses incurred by the participant for medical reasons.
9. Responsibility
9.1. MB is not responsible for any expenses incurred by the participant in preparing for the retreat including non-refundable or penalty-carrying airline tickets, special clothing, visa or passport fees or other voyage related expenses.
Participant should understand that there are certain known and unknown hazards involved in travel in general, which they accept willingly and voluntarily at their own risk at the moment of forwarding the deposit. MB will not be liable for any illness, injury or death sustained during a tour, nor will it be liable for any uninsured loss or damage of property of any participant, whether caused in whole or in part by the negligence of the owners, directors, agents, officers, employees, contractors or subcontractors of MB, or those acting as its agents.
9.2. MB shall not be responsible for any injury to persons (whether or not resulting in death) or damage to property arising out of any act of war, terrorism, insurrection, revolt or other civil or military uprising occurring in the countries of origin, destination or passage. MB can assume no liability due to any cause whatsoever whether caused by failure or delay or other irregularity, acts or omissions occurring during a tour under which the means of transportation or other service provided thereby is offered or supplied by owners, operators or public carriers for whom MB acts only as agent.
10. Health
10.1 The participant must be in general good health to participate in a MB retreat/workshop and advise upon booking of any illnesses.
10.2 MB takes no responsibility for any special arrangements required by the participant if he or she is physically unable to complete a retreat/workshop and assumes no liability regarding the provision of medical care.
11. Travel documents
11.1 For overseas travel the participant must be in possession of a valid passport and all necessary visas, permits and certificates, including medical certificates, for the whole of the journey and the participant accepts responsibility for obtaining the same. All information and advice given by MB on visas, vaccinations, climate, clothing, baggage, special equipment, etc. is given in good faith and should not be taken as being complete or wholly accurate.
12. Accommodation
12.1 Unless otherwise stated accommodation is provided based on two people occupying a twin or double room.
12.2 If the participant is a single traveler wishing to share accommodation MB will try to match him or her with a roommate of the same sex. If no roommate is available the participant will be roomed in a single room or twin or double room for sole occupancy and no single supplement will be charged.
12.3 If the participant requests a single room, where a single room is available a single supplement will be charged.
13. Itinerary
13.1 MB’s itineraries are intended as an example only. The participant should allow for flexibility due to changes in weather, the environment, wildlife, cultural events or other logistical arrangements. While every effort will be made to adhere to the planned itinerary, it must be realized that with this type of adventurous travel, sometimes takes place in remote areas where changes to the itinerary are to be expected.
13.2 Any changes to the itinerary are made at the sole discretion of MB, the retreat /workshop leader, our agents or staff and come under the terms specified in clause 3.2 (above).
14. Images & wildlife
14.1 MB marketing and information materials contain photographs that depict typical locations, scenes and animals that may be viewed on a MB retreat/workshop. Photographs may not depict animals photographed at that specific location and the sightings of wildlife on any retreat can vary and are not guaranteed.
15. Photography
15.1 MB reserves the right to take photographic or video records on all retreats/workshops and the participant grants MB permission to use such images and video for promotional purposes. Should the participant not grant permission, the participant is required to let MB know in writing before the beginning of the retreat/workshop.
16. Group size
16.1 The maximum number of participant on a retreat/workshops does not include the leaders, guides, camp staff or retreat medic (if applicable).
16.2 Should only one space remain on a retreat/workshop, it is MB’s policy to accept two persons traveling together, even if it exceeds the stated retreat maximum.
16.3 MB may host multiple groups operating independently from a common base camp, with separate guides.
17. General
17.1. These retreats are intended for persons in reasonably good health. By forwarding the deposit the participant certifies that he/she does not have any physical or mental conditions or other condition or disability that can create a hazard to himself/herself or other participant. By submitting a deposit the participant:
· Declares under his/her sole and unique responsibility that the information contained in the form is true, complete, and updated to the time of travel and that he/she is fit and fully able to participate in the retreat, is able to take care of himself/herself during the retreat and will not be an obstacle for the enjoyment of the trip for all other participant;
· Accepts that the retreat may take him/her to remote areas without sophisticated medical facilities and understands that medical attention in such locations is limited.
Undertakes to ensure that for the duration of the retreat, including possible delays, he/she will carry any and all necessary medications, and in sufficient quantity, to prevent, counter, or remedy any effects on his/her health that could be caused by his/her medical condition;
· Understands and accepts that MB and its providers cannot, and will not, be held responsible or liable for any possible consequences resulting from his/her health condition during or after the program, and specifically for any food, beverage, ingredient, or any other substance that could cause a direct or indirect allergic reaction;
17.2 By booking the retreat the participant confirms the acceptance of the retreat/workshop leader’s authority to make decisions affecting the group or individuals. For instance, such leader may require an individual to leave the group if he or she believes that person’s health is at risk, if an illegal act is committed, or their behaviour becomes detrimental to the safety, enjoyment or well being of the group. Should MB or anyone acting on their behalf be required to incur legal fees and costs to enforce this agreement, the participant agrees to indemnify and hold them harmless for all such fees and costs. This agreement and any disputes hereunder shall be governed by and construed in accordance with English laws. In the event a lawsuit is filed, the participant agrees to do so solely in UK.
18. Use of Personal Data
18.1 Participant’ personal data collected by MB are used exclusively to provide the services of
the retreat/workshop booked, and to manage the participant’s security, safety, and wellbeing during the retreat. As necessary, data will be shared with third party service providers, such as transportation, accommodation, and insurance providers, who collaborate with MB on the delivery of the retreat. Data will also be shared with authorities as required by law, regulation, or court orders.
19. Declaration
By paying the retreat/workshop deposit or fee the participant acknowledges and confirms that they have read and understood these Terms & Conditions in their entirety and agrees to accept all of the above conditions. The participant also confirms that these Terms & Conditions will be binding on his or her heirs, next of kin, executors, administrators and successors, and that this is the entire understanding between the participant and MB and cannot be modified or changed in any way by any statements or representations by the participant or by MB. The person who makes the payment does so on behalf of all the individuals included in the booking so that all are bound by the booking conditions.