Holiday Information

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Before You Travel



Health Precautions

Health facilities, hygiene and disease risks vary worldwide. You should take health advice about your specific needs as early as possible. Sources of information include the following websites: www.fco.gov.uk, www.hpa.org.uk and www.nathnac.org.uk your General Practitioner or a specialist clinic. Whilst many Western European and North American destinations currently have no compulsory inoculation requirements, advice about destinations can change. Customers travelling to worldwide destinations are recommended to seek advice from the sources mentioned above and, where recommended, obtain vaccinations or tablets for protection against, for example: Malaria, Hepatitis A, Polio, Typhoid and Dengue Fever. In some cases, treatments for Malaria should begin well in advance of travel. Biting insects (including mosquitoes) are common in many countries, and they can spread disease. Insect repellents, especially those containing DEET, can be useful in helping to prevent bites. You can also reduce the risk of bites by wearing clothes that cover your skin, including your arms and legs, especially during the evening and at night. If you are visiting an European Union (EU) country you should obtain a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) and take it with you when you travel. The EHIC can be obtained free of charge by completing an application form available from main Post Offices and from www.dh.gov.uk/travellers. Please note, the EHIC is in addition to Travel Insurance, not instead of it. Travel Advice: The Foreign and Commonwealth Travel Advice Unit issues and frequently updates advice for those travelling outside the UK. The advice includes general warnings and specific information for the benefit of travellers. Ask your travel agent for details of any current advice for the country or countries which you plan to visit when you book your holiday. You are also advised to check this information before you go by accessing the latest Travel Advice on www.fco.gov.uk, alternatively e-mail traveladvicepublicenquiries@fco.gov.uk or telephone the Foreign Office Travel Advice Unit on 0845 850 2829.

Travel Advice: The Foreign and Commonwealth Travel Advice Unit issues and frequently updates advice for those travelling outside the UK. The advice includes general warnings and specific information for the benefit of travellers. Ask your travel agent for details of any current advice for the country or countries which you plan to visit when you book your holiday. You are also advised to check this information before you go by accessing the latest Travel Advice on www.fco.gov.uk, alternatively e-mail traveladvicepublicenquiries@fco.gov.uk or telephone the Foreign Office Travel Advice Unit on 0845 850 2829.


Weather Hazards

Sun: The sun should be treated with respect - the more so the closer you get to the tropics, and especially in the winter, when your skin's completely unprepared. Make sure you take enough sun lotion with you - it can be hard to find locally - use it, and go easy on the sunbathing, particularly in the first few days. Watch out for signs of burning, heat exhaustion or sunstroke (reddening skin, sleepy, dizziness, headaches) and make sure you drink lots of (non-alcoholic) fluids to avoid dehydration.


Weather & Natural Disasters: Destinations featured in this brochure may be affected by weather patterns such as tropical storms, monsoons, hurricanes, cyclones, typhoons, flooding and also seismic activity causing earthquakes and tidal waves. An example of which is the "hurricane" season, which affects the Atlantic, Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico and is generally considered to be between June and November. This is just one example and different weather patterns occur at different times of the year, their impact on destinations can and does vary. Its not possible for us to publish detailed information on weather patterns for each destination in our brochure, and weather advice can frequently change, we recommend you check the latest FCO Travel Advice for your destination. Visit www.fco.gov.uk/travel for information. When a storm or natural disaster occurs, travel and accommodation arrangements may be significantly disrupted. It is extremely difficult to predict with accuracy the actual path, duration or effect severe weather patterns and seismic activity may have and the effects of actual or threatened bad weather and natural disasters are beyond our control (please refer to our booking conditions, section "Circumstances Beyond Our Control" for details of our responsibility to you in these circumstances). If a storm or natural disaster is forecast to affect one of our destinations, we work with local and international authorities, our Health and Safety / resort teams and local agents to try to minimise disruption and keep you well informed. It may be that an evacuation of your resort, or a delay or cancellation of your flight to or from the resort may be necessary. In the event of changes to your holiday due to actual or threatened bad weather, we are not able to offer any compensation.


Climate information: The latest local and international weather updates issued by the Met Office and available on their website: www.metoffice.gov.uk


Disabled Travellers

Overseas Accommodation and Overseas Transport Arrangements The majority of overseas accommodation, overseas transport (including transfers) and other holiday services provided overseas are not equipped to cater for the needs of many disabled holidaymakers. Furthermore the natural terrain and the layout of some resorts can sometimes make life difficult for wheelchair users. It is therefore important, if you have any disability, that the appropriate enquiries are made about the suitability of particular accommodation, resorts, transport and services, and that you are fully satisfied you have made the correct choice before you book and confirm your holiday. Please note: if special arrangements need to be made for you an extra charge may have to be levied, this may be the case either before you go or when you arrive in resort. We cannot be held responsible if you fail to tell us about special needs/requirements that will affect your holiday experience and this means we will not compensate you. For customers who require support or advice prior to booking, please contact our Special Assistance Team who will contact our suppliers for further information. Simply call our Special Assistance Team on 0800 107 3409. (This is a dedicated number for special assistance enquiries and we are unable to transfer calls to other departments).

At the Airport and Onboard Your Flight If you have a disability, reduced mobility or special need that you require assistance with, either at the airport or onboard the aircraft please let us know as soon as possible. We would like to know if you have a pre-existing medical condition or recent injury, so that we can answer any questions and ensure there are no concerns about your fitness to fly. Please speak to your travel agent or call our Special Assistance Team on 0800 107 3409 and we will pass details onto the relevant airline and airport. If you do not request this in advance the airlines and airports cannot guarantee that this service will be available, as there is a limit on the number of passengers with reduced mobility and the number of wheelchairs the airline is able to assist on the day with no pre-notification. We recommend you contact us at the earliest opportunity, we need information regarding your need for assistance no later than 48 hours before departure, so we can inform the responsible Managing Body at the airport(s) and your airline. If your booking is made later, the airport/airline will make all reasonable efforts to provide the service required but cannot guarantee that this can be done successfully. Please let us know if you need any assistance at the airport or onboard the flight, such as, if you use a wheelchair, if you are visually impaired or require use of oxygen. Also, please note that if you are not self-reliant (capable of taking care of all your physical needs independently in-flight), a carer must travel with any passenger who does not meet the DFT (Department for Transport) code of practice definition of self-reliance. The carer must purchase a ticket at the same time. You can find more information about travelling with a disability or reduced mobility on our website: www.thomascook.com. If you are flying with Thomas Cook Airlines you can also refer to www.thomascookairlines.co.uk. Alternatively please discuss your requirements with your travel agent or contact our Special Assistance Team direct on 0800 107 3409 and we will be pleased to help you. (This is a dedicated number for special assistance enquiries and we are unable to transfer calls to other departments).


Passports & Visas

The following information applies to British Citizen's holding a UK passport issued in the UK. Non-British Citizen passport holders or British Citizens holding a UK Passport issued abroad or holders of British Subject Passports should contact the appropriate consulate or embassy for clarification. Please note, both passport and visa regulations can change and you should therefore check with your travel agent or the relevant embassy well in advance of travel. It can often take some time to obtain a visa, so you are advised to apply in plenty of time.


Your responsibility: It is the responsibility of passengers to ensure they have valid, acceptable passports and any required visa or any other documentation for the travel they are to undertake - you must be able to meet the entry requirements for both your final destinations and any stop-off points en-route. Passengers without the correct documentation may be refused carriage by the airline or entry into any country. Where entry is refused, fines or other financial penalty will be imposed on or by the airline and the passenger(s) concerned will be required to immediately return to their country of departure. Any passenger who travels without the required passport/visa/other documentation is solely responsible for and must immediately pay all fines, surcharges, other financial penalty, costs (including the cost of their immediate return flight) and any other sums of any description which are incurred or imposed by the airline or incurred by ourselves. This will be the case regardless of whether the lack of correct documentation is spotted at the departure airport. We can accept no liability in this situation and no compensation, expenses, refund or other sum will be paid.


Validity: A valid passport is essential when you travel abroad. Although your passport has been issued for 10 years (5 years for children) you should note that some overseas countries have an immigration requirement for a passport to remain valid for a minimum period after the date of entry to that country (typically 6 months). If your passport is in its final year of validity, you are advised to check the requirements of the destination before you make your final travel plans.


Names: At the time of booking please ensure you supply your first name and surname, (as they appear on your passport) as both of these must be stated on your flight ticket. This will reduce confusion and delays at check-in, especially when travelling to the USA. It is anticipated that customers could face more queries and delays as more countries introduce Advance Passenger Information systems. You may not be able to travel and insurance may be invalid if the name on your passport and travel documents don't match. If, after booking a holiday but before travelling, any member of your party changes their name, e.g. as a result of getting married, we must be notified immediately so that we can make the necessary changes to your holiday documentation.


Portugal: A minor under the age of 18 travelling to Portugal must either be accompanied by a parent or guardian or carry a letter of authorisation to travel from a parent or guardian. The letter should name the adult responsible for the minor during his/her stay. For the latest advice visit www.fco.gov.uk or contact the Portuguese Embassy.


Children: are required to have their own passport.


Apply early – If you need to apply for a passport or renew an expired passport, you should do so well in advance of travel and at least four weeks before. (If you are 16 or over and have never had a passport in your own name, you should apply for one at least six weeks before your holiday. The UK passport service has to confirm your identity before issuing your first passport and will ask you to attend an interview in order to protect your identity). Visit www.ips.gov.uk


How to contact the Passport Service General passport enquiries should be directed to the Identity and Passport Service. Please visit their website: www.ips.gov.uk or telephone: 0300 222 000. Apply early: If you need to apply for a passport or renew an expired passport, you should do so well in advance of travel and at least four weeks before. (If you are 16 or over and have never had a passport in your own name, you should apply for one at least six weeks before your holiday. The UK passport service has to confirm your identity before issuing your first passport and will ask you to attend an interview in order to protect your identity). Visit www.ips.gov.uk


Domestic flights

Please check with the airline you are traveling with regarding passport/ID requirements.


Currency & Money

We recommend the purchase of travellers cheques for the bulk of your holiday money, with a small amount of local currency for initial sundry items. Major credit cards are also widely accepted in most of the destinations in this brochure. In some cases local currencies may have to be purchased after arrival or there may be restrictions on the amount you are permitted to buy in advance. We suggest you contact your Travel Agent for details. Please note - In Bulgaria travellers cheques can only be cashed at banks therefore it is advisable to take a small amount of sterling/dollars to cash at hotels.



Your Flight

Flight supplements: Flight supplements may be applicable. You will be informed of these at the time of enquiry.


Flight timings: Customers are advised to double check their outward and return flight times with the airline direct 72 hours before each flights departure. The airlines contact numbers can be found on the MyTravel website, please click here for details. The right is reserved to substitute alternative airlines and/or aircraft at any time. All bookings are subject to the grant of licenses by the Civil Aviation Authority.


Safety: The safety and welfare of passengers is of paramount importance. While we wish to create a genuine holiday mood, we will, or our suppliers may, deny boarding or impose additional conditions of carriage on any passenger who:


  • is intoxicated and or disruptive
  • found to be smoking on board our aircraft
  • makes an inappropriate remark. Inappropriate remarks are considered as any comment or statement made by a person, which indicates they may be carrying a bomb (or other such explosive device), a firearm or weapon regardless of that person's intent or reason for making the comment or statement


Although we want you to start and end your holiday on a high note, please make sure that you keep any drinking to a minimum before the departure of your flight. We will deny boarding to any passenger who appears to be intoxicated or whose behavior we consider to be disruptive.


We realise that some larger passengers, due to their size, often find that aircraft seat width is insufficient for their needs. For your own safety and comfort and that of other passengers, you must advise us or your travel agent at the time of booking if you know or are unsure as to whether the seat size on the aircraft will be sufficient for your needs. If you do require additional space, then subject to availability, you can purchase more than one seat located side by side or if you prefer, a wider seat in an upgraded class (where applicable). We regret however, that due to additional costs incurred by us, you will have to pay the full cost of all seats required by you, plus any upgrade supplement per seat. If you are purchasing extra seats due to your size, please contact us or your travel agent.


Security: Please keep your luggage with you at all times, never carry packages or presents for anyone else. Unattended luggage will be removed and destroyed.


Pregnancy: Regulations vary from airline to airline, but some will refuse to carry women who will be 28 weeks or more pregnant on the date of return travel. If you are in doubt, please check with the airline concerned. We recommend that you also consult your own doctor.


Fitness to fly: You may need permission to fly from your doctor if you suffer from certain medial conditions, which may mean you also require assistance from the airline. Should you have any concerns about your fitness to fly and please telephone 0844 879 8272.


At the airport: As a result of security measures at UK airports, we recommed AT LEAST 2 hours before departure. You must check in at least 1 hour prior to departure. If you fail to check in on time, the airline is entitled to refuse to allow you to board the flight. We cannot accept responsibility if such a situation arises and, whilst we will endeavor to assist in making alternative travel arrangements to your resort, any cost or loss incurred as a result will be your responsibility. Remember, no calls will be made for your flight so please make sure that you are at the departure gate no later than 45 minutes before your departure time.


Check In

The following information is designed to help you complete the airport check-in process as quickly as possible.


When you arrive at the check-in desk for your flight, you will be asked for your ticket, passport and baggage. If travelling in a group, please make sure all members of your party are at the desk. Once you have checked in, you can move through to the departure lounge where you will find further information, including your departure gate number.


Hand Baggage: The check-in agent at the airport will ask you to show your hand baggage. The maximum size for items of hand luggage is 56cm x 45cm x 25cm per bag. However, airlines apply their own operational policies governing the number of items of hand baggage which may be taken in to the aircraft cabin. Weight limits for hand luggage may also vary. We recommend you check with your airline prior to travel. The low dose X-Ray machines used at UK airports to examine hand luggage will not affect photographic film. Hold baggage is subject to a higher dose X-Ray inspection and we suggest therefore that you pack your film in your hand luggage. Items such as knives, scissors, tweezers and laser pointers may not be carried as hand luggage. These should be carried as hold baggage only. Any such items or sharp objects will be confiscated if packed in your hand luggage. Restrictions on carrying liquids may apply for hand luggage please check with your airline for details.


Valuables: Please remember to pack any valuables in your hand luggage and not in your suitcase.


Lost and delayed baggage: Unfortunately, on rare occasions, your baggage may be mislaid or damaged on arrival at your destination airport. You should immediately inform the handling agent or our resort staff who will help you obtain and complete the necessary forms. This must be done immediately and before you leave the airport otherwise any claim you wish to make may not be valid. When you check-in your baggage you will be given a receipt by the check-in agent (this is normally attached to your flight tickets). Please keep your receipts safe as they will help with any claim.


Hold Baggage: Your hold baggage must not exceed the stated allowance on your ticket; a charge will be made if the stated allowance is exceeded. Baggage allowances range from 15kg up to 30kg. Individual items of luggage must not exceed 30kg for lifting purposes.


Entry to Cuba: Please note, certain electronic items (including DVD's, PlayStations) are prohibited from being taken into Cuba and may be confiscated and not returned if found in your possession or baggage. Please refer to information contained with your flight tickets for further details of items affected or check the latest restrictions with the Cuban Embassy.


Medical equipment: : If you are carrying medical/mobility equipment, you must ensure that you have adequate insurance to cover the items for possible loss or damage. Valuables: Please remember to pack any valuables including money, credit cards, jewellery, keys and camera equipment in your hand luggage and not in your suitcase.


Baggage allowance: Some of the airlines we use apply a charge for luggage that goes into the aircraft hold. Charges may be lower if payment is made when you make your booking, rather than when you are at the airport. If we are made aware that the airline intends to impose a charge in advance for 'hold' baggage, prices will automatically include one piece of hold baggage per passenger. The airlines standard luggage allowance will be printed on your flight tickets. Please note, that excess baggage charges will apply if you exceed the stated amount on your ticket. Where airlines introduce charges for 'hold baggage' after you have booked your ticket, if there is time and where possible, we will let you know before you travel.


Sporting Equipment: The acceptance of sports equipment is down to the individual airlines and charges will apply. These will vary depending on the airline. All such items will travel on a weight and space permitting basis only. You should also have insurance for these items.


Smoking: Please note that whatever airline you fly with, all UK airlines have a strict no-smoking policy throughout the aircraft.


Deep Vein Thrombosis

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is a serious condition where blood clots develop in the deep veins of the legs. Prolonged immobility is generally thought to be the common underlying risk factor, and thus any travel involving prolonged immobility can result in developing a DVT. A wide range of advice is available on DVT - you are strongly recommended to obtain advice that will include information on those people most at risk of DVT and how to reduce risks when flying. Most passengers can reduce risks through keeping circulation active by practicing in-seat exercises, especially leg exercises, and walking around the aircraft whenever possible. Most airlines provide details of suitable exercises you can do and other measures you can take to reduce risks within their in-flight magazines or during in-flight videos. More comprehensive advice can be found on the UK Department of Health's website (www.dh.gov.uk) but if you believe you are at a higher risk or have any concerns about the risks or doubts about flying, you must consult your GP before you travel.


Flights:

We advise that the distance between the back support cushion of your flight seat and the back of the seat or other fixed structure in front of your seat will not be less than the minimum stated in the UK Civil Aviation Authority's Airworthiness Notice No 64, Issue 2 of the 29th October 2001 (26 inches).


No-Frills Flights: Please note No-Frills airlines are scheduled carriers.


Flight Routing: A direct flight may touch down en route for refuelling, or to pick up and/or drop off passengers. In these instances you are not normally required to disembark and the flight is still considered to be a direct flight. A non direct flight may require a change of aircraft en route while a non stop flight may take you directly from your final destination airport without stopping.


Code Sharing: Some airlines now work in partnership with one another and sell seats on each other's planes to enable more choice and better onward connections. This means that your flight may be with a different company to the one you expect.



Your Accommodation

Accommodation can, at times, have a lively atmosphere, and facilities and entertainment may vary according to the mix and ages of guests in residence.

Official Ratings

Ratings systems are an attempt to give a guide to the overall quality of properties. The official ratings are given by the authorities in the country, and do tend to give a fair impression of relative standards within that country. However, different countries have different standards, so don't assume that a 3-star hotel in one country is equivalent to a 3-star hotel in another.


All Inclusive Grading

As there is no international agreement or understanding on what the term "All Inclusive" means, some of our properties use their own "All Inclusive" grading system, so that you know exactly what to expect upon arrival at your chosen destination.

In most cases and where applicable, full information will be supplied within each hotel description, however a brief summary of each grade is supplied below:


All Inclusive Light: The All Inclusive Light programme, is normally a Full Board plus drinks arrangement and consists of three meals each day, plus free beverages at meal times only. The drinks include locally produced beer, wine, soft drinks and water.


All Inclusive Bronze: The All Inclusive Bronze programme includes three meals each day, plus a selection of locally produced alcoholic and non-alcholic beverages served with meals and from the bar. A limited selection of snacks is also available throughout the day.


All Inclusive Silver: The All Inclusive Silver programme is an enhanced version of the Bronze package and includes three meals each day, snacks, a selection of locally produced alcoholic and non-alcholic drinks and selected imported unbranded alcoholic drinks, available at meal times and from the bar all day (times are specified in the full hotel description). Hotels selected to be in this category will have at least two restaurants, one of them being an 'a la carte' restaurant, where reservations can be made and guests can eat for up to two nights of their stay. The All Inclusive Silver programme will also include a minimum of four sports and leisure activities and a minimum of 2 nights entertainment each week.


All Inclusive Gold: The All Inclusive Gold programme is the most comprehensive package and includes three meals each day, snacks, a full range of locally produced international and premium branded alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. This package also includes a full range of sports and leisure activities and a full entertainment programme. To reach this grading a hotel must have at least three restaurants or snack bars, three bars, unlimited snacks and drinks and a regularly filled minibar in each room.


Please note: This grading system only applies to a selection of our All Inclusive properties. Please therefore, refer to the individual property for more information on the All Inclusive benefits available in each case.


Hotels and Hotel rooms

The term "hotel" is used to describe various types of accommodation and does not necessarily distinguish between local classifications such as "aparthotel", "holiday village", "holiday complex", "hostel", "pension", "stalgem", Hotel/Motel chains: sometimes hotels change the name of the chain through which they are marketed (e.g. Howard Johnson). If such a change occurs at your hotel you will only be advised if we believe it involves a significant change in facilities or standards.


Facilities: All listed facilities are not necessarily included in the cost of the accommodation, some are payable locally (i.e. safe box, contents of mini-bar).


Room Information: Twin and Double Rooms - a Twin is a room with two single beds and a Double is a room with a double bed. A double bed may be two single beds with double bedding. Single Rooms - a Single or Twin for sole use is a room with one or two single beds. Rooms sleeping up to 4 people - some hotels have rooms that sleep up to 4 people. Room layout may consist of up to 4 separate beds or a combination of double, twin, camp beds, sofa beds or rollaway beds. In some hotels 3rd and 4th beds may be only suitable for a child, but in other hotels there may be a reduction available if 4 adults share the room. Rooms for up to 4 persons may not be any larger than standard twin or double rooms so space is likely to limited and the room may be cramped. Where rooms do accept extra beds, some hotels may require an additional local charge to be paid which can vary by destination, please ask for details when you book. In most cases extra beds for children are only suitable for children aged 12 and under. Though we will do our best to help, please note that we cannot guarantee the room configuration or type of beds that you will be provided with. Suites/Junior Suites/Villas: A Suite and Junior Suite usually contain a lounge/living area. A Suite is likely to contain a separate sleeping area whereas a Junior Suite the sleeping area may not be completely separate. Room layouts can vary by destination. Our descriptions of Suites/Junior Suites and Villas usually state the number of persons who can occupy the room type (e.g. 2-4 persons). If there are less than the maximum number of persons in your own party, the room type may contain less than the maximum number of beds. Children paying less than the full cost do not count towards occupancy of the suites/junior suites or villas.


Studios and Apartments: It's not unusual in some countries (particularly those in the Mediterranean) to have beds with concrete basis. Please also be aware that although initially supplied, it is usual in some Greek studios & apartments for toilet rolls not to be re-supplied. Studios - A studio is one room living-come-sleeping accommodation, usually with divan/sofa beds, basic kitchen facilities (usually two cooking rings and a fridge) and a shower room. Apartments - An apartment is self-contained with one or more bedrooms with twin/double beds, basic kitchen facilities (usually two cooking rings and fridge) and shower room. One-bedroom apartments usually have a separate living area, though in Greece multi-bedroom apartments may not have a separate living area. Apartment descriptions indicate the number of adults who can occupy an apartment (e.g. 2-4 persons). This will not always mean that at the time of your stay the apartment will contain the maximum number of beds, if there is less than the maximum number of people in your own party. Beds in the living area may be of the folding type or sofa beds.


Accommodation Layout: Moorish style and traditional hotels or large hotel/apartment complexes may have low-rise wings or a number of accommodation blocks spread across large areas. These may be separate from and a few minutes walk to the main reception and restaurant areas.


Views from a balcony/terrace: If you would like a specific view, please be aware that rooms described as having a pool or sea view may not have a full pool or full sea view because of plants or buildings blocking the view.


Single Supplements: If a single person occupies a double room they will usually be asked to pay extra (a single supplement). Hotels price their rooms as doubles and they do not reduce the rates if they are occupied by a single person. The costs to the hotel of providing the room - heating, lighting, cleaning etc. are the same regardless of how many people occupy that room. Hotel design may mean that single rooms are smaller and may have different facilities to standard rooms. Single rooms are often smaller, may not have a balcony and may not be of the same general standard as normal twin rooms. While there is normally a supplement for these rooms the overall cost will usually be less than when a single person occupies a double room. The prices we charge reflect the costs of under occupancy of the rooms contracted to us by the hotel, we do not mark up these supplements.


Meal Service: Providing meals from a self-service buffet is popular in hotels. We include the most up-to-date information we have about meal service in our accommodation descriptions, but occasionally arrangements will change. Breakfast will be of the 'continental' type unless stated otherwise. In certain properties, extended or 'English' type breakfasts are available and may be at an extra charge. Many properties are not necessarily used to catering for special diets and therefore if you have particular or specific requirements, you may find that the choice is limited. As a matter of courtesy to fellow guests, property owners may require diners to wear long trousers whilst dining in their restaurants. If this is a concern then please telephone to check for your individual property's details. Wherever more than one restaurant is advertised, meals for bed & breakfast, half board, full board and All-Inclusive guests will be taken at the main restaurant (usually buffet-style), unless otherwise stated. Where meals can be taken at alternative restaurants, a reservation is usually required. Greek Breakfasts: Greek continental breakfasts can be basic and usually consist of coffee or tea and bread and jam. Some hotels may also offer cereals, yogurt and eggs.


How Many Nights Are Spent In Your Accommodation?

Your accommodation is usually reserved for you from 1200 noon (from 4pm in some areas) on the day of your departure from the UK. However, at some larger hotels, delays may occur with check-in whilst your room is prepared for you. For night flights departing between 0001 and 0400 hours, the day of departure is deemed to be the previous day. In some cases, depending on your flight times, you may arrive in the early hours or during the course of the morning. Your accommodation should be immediately available to you, and in this case this is classed as the first night of your holiday. Rooms are normally vacated at the internationally recognised time of 12 noon on the last day of the holiday. However, there are some areas where a 10am vacating time is operated. On occasions there may be several hours to wait before the departure of your flight home. In such cases a room may be made available for changing and storing luggage. Sometimes hotels will let you keep your room but they are entitled to make a charge. This is not normally possible with apartments. If you are on Half Board, Full Board or All Inclusive it is possible that you may lose a meal owing to your own particular flight times.


Air Conditioning

Some properties have individual air conditioners located in either the bedroom or the living area, allowing you to adjust the atmosphere to your own liking. In some descriptions we have indicated that there is centrally-controlled air conditioning. This means it is operated at the discretion of the management, both in bedrooms and public areas. In such cases air conditioning may be restricted to particular times of the day and to the hottest months of the summer. It may be that only cool air is provided, not necessarily warm air as well. There may be a local charge for air conditioning in some rooms.


Other Guests

We do not have exclusive properties featured in this on line guide. It is possible, therefore, that there may be guests from other countries and of mixed age groups at your accommodation. Many hotels we feature do operate corporate conference facilities and there may be occasions where business meetings are taking place during your stay.


Accommodation Maintenance

Certain accommodation featured in this on line guide is operational all year round. From time to time it will be necessary for certain facilities to be withdrawn for general maintenance purposes. Water and electricity suppliers may be interrupted whilst this essential maintenance is undertaken.


TV Channels

As many hotels we feature have satellite TV shown in rooms, we recommend that you use the same care and supervision with children watching TV, as you would at home. Some channels may be of an adult nature. There may also be limited numbers of English-speaking channels.


Infants

Please note that in each property description we state the maximum number of occupants a room or apartment can accommodate; this number includes infants. For any bookings made which exceed this stated maximum and for which we are advised cannot be accommodated, we reserve the right to pass on the cost of any additional/different rooms/apartments required to accommodate the booking. There may be a charge locally for infants for use of services and facilities in the accommodation.


Cleaning

The standard and frequency of cleaning and linen change can vary from resort to resort and property to property depending on general standards in resort and the rating of your accommodation. For instance, cleaning and changing of linen in Greece and mainland Spain will be of an acceptable standard, but it may not be as often as other resorts.


Hotel-run kids clubs

We are unable to accept responsibility for or give any guarantee for the standard of the facilities and qualifications of personnel at hotel run clubs. Kids club(s) may not meet standards of similar facilities in the UK and Guests are strongly advised to remember that local standards and requirements in respect of such clubs may differ overseas and so you must ensure that you are completely satisfied with the facilities and staff providing this service before you enroll your child or children into the club and into the clubs' care.


All Inclusive holidays

All Inclusive holidays offer every opportunity for relaxing, taking part in sports and games and generally enjoying yourself. However, as with everything in life there are some simple rules which will help you in achieving this aim.


Identification - When you arrive at your hotel you are likely to be provided with some form of identification (it may be a card, necklace, bracelet etc), which will have to be shown when ordering drinks, meals and other included facilities. Ensure you take care of this as a penalty charge is likely to be imposed if lost.


Behaviour - both ourselves and each of the All Inclusive hotels reserve the right to withdraw the identification facility of any guest(s) whose behaviour, or whose child/children's behaviour is such that it is, in the opinion of the management, detrimental to the enjoyment of the other guests.


Alcohol - Having drinks freely available throughout the day can be a temptation to over-indulge. Please therefore consider your fellow guests (and your own health) while bearing in mind that hotel management's have every right to refuse service to guests they believe to be intoxicated or under age (in accordance with local law).


Bottled mineral water - in some All Inclusive hotels bottled mineral water does not form part of the unlimited soft drinks service.


Locally sourced drinks / snacks - Drinks included are generally only locally produced brands; cocktails, international and premium brands and fruit juices are not available unless stated. The type and variety of snacks served (between meal times) will vary between hotels and resorts, and may be of a more traditional / local variety.


What's Not Included - any additional facilities or services available may incur a charge. Consequently, not all bars/restaurants are available free of charge.


Coming home - most hotels remove access to All Inclusive facilities, including food and drink at the time of checkout, which is generally 12 noon on the day of departure.


Entertainment and sports facilities at your Accommodation

These differ from hotel to hotel, so please read the descriptions carefully. A charge may be made locally for entertainment and the use of some hotel facilities where these are not included in an all inclusive. Not all hotels provide entertainment, and the quality at those that do will vary. Outdoor sports and facilities are subject to weather conditions permitting (e.g. watersports, outdoor bars etc). All sports and leisure activities are naturally subject to availability. The hotel may have a system restricting the number of times and hours of use of certain facilities to ensure all customers can enjoy them. Whenever we are aware of this it is clearly stated. You may be required to pay a deposit for some sports or leisure facilities which will be refunded upon the return of the undamaged equipment. Some hotels may have additional conditions before refunding the deposit (e.g. not to exceed the time limit of usage). If applicable, guests will be informed on arrival.



Your Resort


Emergency Contact

You will be supplied with a 24 hour emergency contact number, this number will be printed on your invoice prior to departure, please ensure you take this with you on holiday. Our trained staff are available to help sort out any particular problem whilst on holiday. If you have a complaint they will need to know about it and will do their best to solve the problem and minimise any inconvenience. This will also help us to improve the holiday experience for all our customers.


Resorts: In low season, resorts can be quiet with some facilities in limited supply, whereas in high season the resort is sure to be full, with facilities in full swing. However, there may be occasions where hoteliers or providers of services withdraw a facility temporarily or otherwise due to lack of demand, especially at the start and end of season. If you would like to visit particular attractions, we recommend that you check their availability in resort as they may have to close at short notice because of the weather or for routine maintenance.


Resort Development

Some of the destinations in this on line guide are still being developed and even in more established resorts there is often a possibility of building work taking place. If in our opinion this is likely to affect your booked accommodation significantly, we will tell you at the time of booking or, if you have already booked, you will be contacted before departure if there is time.


Conditions In Holiday Resorts

If there is a specific problem affecting your accommodation, you should report this to the accommodation staff, who will do his or her best to help sort things out. Insects, ants, mosquitoes and cockroaches for example, are common in hot countries. They are usually harmless, and they do not mean your accommodation is dirty or unhygienic, but obviously the sight of such creatures can be off-putting if you are not used to seeing them. If your hotel has an open restaurant, it may attract local birds, some of which might try to share your food though hotels do their best to discourage them. Though frustrating, this is a normal part of local life, and please don't encourage birds by feeding them. Please also refrain from feeding any other wildlife.


Local Information

Please note that areas surrounding your holiday accommodation do not form part of your package holiday and have not been inspected. These include for example the sea, beaches, roads and mountains. You are responsible for taking reasonable care for your own safety and the safety of your party. Local events, religious festivities and public holidays are likely to influence the provision of services and facilities within the hotels and around holiday resorts at certain times.


In Muslim countries, dates of religious feasts and festivals are fixed by local sightings of the moon so we cannot work out when they will be beforehand. Ramadan, which is observed for one month each year, is a period of fasting when the pace of life is slower, public areas are busier and there are certain restrictions, such as drinking alcohol, use of restaurant facilities and consuming food in public. Ramadan is expected to run for a month from 10th August 2010. Also, the Muslim New Year is different to the Christian one and during this period many shops and restaurants may be closed. If you are concerned about the possible impact of holidays and events or would like to know more, please contact the appropriate tourist board.


Driving

Laws, licensing requirements and age limits vary throughout the world. We recommend you check with your travel agent, or the relevant embassy or consulate.


Watersports & Sporting Activities

We refer to a number of watersport and other sporting activities within the on line guide, none of these are neither owned nor operated by mytravel and we cannot guarantee that they are maintained or operated with the customer's safety in mind.


We would ask that you take all reasonable precautions to protect yourself and your party whilst on holiday and would recommend that you only use companies who demonstrate good safety practices. You should ensure watersports and other similar sporting activities you wish to take part in are covered by your own holiday insurance. Some activities/watersports may be considered to be hazardous pursuits by some insurance companies.


Recommending Establishments

Opinions and recommendations expressed in this on line guide do not necessarily represent those of mytravel. We would ask you to remember that attractions and establishments may open, close or change owners or circumstances during the validity of this on line guide. Descriptions and recommendations given are in good faith and are based upon various authors views and experiences at the time of writing and therefore contain an element of subjective opinion.


Smoking

Restrictive legislation against smoking in public places is becoming increasingly common in destinations worldwide. You may find your holiday resort operates enforced smoking restrictions in areas including, but not limited to, enclosed public areas such as bars, pubs and restaurants. Fines may be imposed for breaching regulations. To find out more visit the FCO website www.fco.gov.uk


Alcohol restrictions

Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia & Gambia - please note during Islamic religious month of Ramadam service of alcohol may be limited between the hours of sunrise and sunset. Some cafes and restaurants may even close. Service in hotels should not be affected.


Noise

Some resorts are within built-up areas or other places where noise is common. Noise may be audible from road traffic or aircraft (if you are near a flight path). Noise is also often caused by birds and local wildlife, and by local activity such as speedboats, calls to prayer and customs (for example, festivals and religious celebrations), and is often part of the travel experience.



Your Price

Your booking is priced by component (i.e. accommodation, flights, transfers etc) you can book as little as you want or as much as you want. Each component is added to your booking and the final holiday price is calculated from your choice. You can add components after your booking has been made.


Component Prices and Occupancy

Prices displayed throughout this on line guide for accommodation are quoted per person for the number of nights as stated. Please note while the 'From' and 'To' prices displayed are based on information provided by our suppliers and are an accurate guide at the time this on line guide is published, hotel prices may fluctuate in response to supply and demand and our suppliers reserve the right to charge higher rates at these and other certain times (e.g. festivals, events, holiday periods). The final prices will be displayed on our live reservation system and are confirmed on application. Optional supplements relating to meals, hotel room upgrades, single room occupancy and any other applicable facilities may also be available, please contact us for details and current prices. Any supplements are determined by the date the property is occupied, and not departure date (unless otherwise stated).


You will have assistance through our 24 hour emergency contact number only in relation to the components you have booked with us. We cannot assist with areas where you have not contracted with us (e.g. if you have booked your own flight we cannot assist with flight details).


The list below shows what is included in each separate component of your holiday. Depending on what you book depends what is included:


  • Accommodation for hotels, the price applies to each of the two adults sharing a standard room. Minimum/maximum stay and date restrictions may apply depending on departure dates. Apartment and studio prices are based on the maximum number of adults sharing the accommodation and for fewer adults under occupancy supplements usually apply

  • Meals: the board basis is shown in the accommodation description. If you book half board this usually means breakfast and dinner. If you book all inclusive this usually means breakfast lunch and dinner
  • Flights: Prices and times will be advised at the time of booking and are subject to change
  • Air Passenger Duty, UK airport taxes and security charges known at the time of going to press
  • Charges for extra security, insurance, aviation and other associated costs


And What's Extra:

  • Holiday Insurance: you MUST be insured. We recommend you insure your holiday as soon as you book it.
  • Flight supplements: where applicable, please also see 'Your Flight' section
  • Meal supplements: where applicable
  • In flight meals: the option of selecting an in flight meal at an additional charge may be available, on request, at the time of booking. No frills airlines do not provide you with an in flight meal
  • Optional excursions
  • Charges made by accommodation: such as a la carte dishes, sunloungers, sporting facilities, telephone calls, safes, mini-bars etc. There may be a charge locally for infants for use of services and facilities in the accommodation
  • Locally collected taxes
  • Accommodation deposits: in some cases on arrival at self catering accommodation you may be asked for a deposit. This is refundable, less the cost of any damage or loss
  • Excess baggage on coaches and aircraft (such as surfboards and sailboards) on some airlines. Excess baggage charges will apply if you exceed your allowance
  • A booking fee will apply for all bookings and name changes made within 14 days of departure. The minimum charge will be £15 per person
  • Credit card charges: There is a 2.25% charge on all credit card transactions (up to a maximum of £50 per booking)
  • Possible surcharges: see ' Surcharges' price increases after booking section'
  • Extra Charges: please see ' Extra Charges- before booking' section


Extra Charges before booking

We have included in our prices an extra charge to cover aviation, fuel, insurance and other associated costs, (which have been imposed on airlines and tour operators following world events of September 2001 onwards) you should be aware that these charges and costs may change between the date of publication of this on line guide and the time of travel. Since all these costs are beyond our control and subject to further changes, we reserve the right to pass on any additional charges to you and they will be added and shown separately at the time of booking. We reserve the right to change prices, price can go up or down. Please therefore check carefully the total costing, including any additional charges, with us or your agent before you book.


Surcharges: Price increases after booking

The price of your travel arrangements can be varied due to changes in: transportation costs e.g. fuel, scheduled airfares and any other airline surcharges which are part of the contract between airlines (and their agents) and the tour operator/organiser, Government action such as increases in VAT or any other Government imposed increases, currency in relation to adverse exchange rate variations.


In the case of any small variation, an amount equivalent to 2% of the price of your travel arrangements, which excludes insurance premiums and any amendment charges, will be absorbed or retained. For larger variations this 2% will still be absorbed for increases but not retained from refunds. In either case there will be an administration charge of £1.00 per person together with an amount to cover agents' commission. If this means that you have to pay an increase of more than 10% of the price of your travel arrangements, you may cancel your travel arrangements and receive a full refund of all monies paid, except for any amendment charges. We will consider an appropriate refund of insurance premiums paid if you can show that are unable to transfer or reuse your policy. Should you decide to cancel for this reason, you must exercise your right to do so within 14 days from the issue date printed on your final invoice. Whether you cancel or not you will also be entitled, on the terms set out in respect of major changes, to accept an offer of alternative travel arrangements from us if we are able to do so and compensation (please see Booking Conditions). Please note that travel arrangements are not always purchased in local currency and some apparent changes have no impact on the price of your travel due to contractual and other protection in place.



General Information


Your Responsibility

We want all our customers to have an enjoyable, carefree Holiday. But you must remember that you are responsible for your actions and the effect they may have on others. If we, or another person in authority, believe:

  • your actions could upset, annoy or disturb other customers, our suppliers or our own staff, or put them in any risk or danger, or damage property; or
  • you are unfit to travel;

we may end your Holiday and terminate your contract. You and your travelling party will be prevented from using your booked accommodation, transport, and any other Travel Arrangements forming part of your booking and we will not be liable for any refund, compensation or any other costs you have to pay. Alternatively at our discretion, you may be permitted to continue with your Holiday but may have additional terms of carriage imposed upon you. See 'In-Flight Safety in the Holiday Information sections of the relevant brochure and on the MyTravel websites for further details.


In addition to the above and the effect your actions may have on others, you must particularly also bear in mind that you are responsible for your safety, and that you are responsible for the condition of the property you occupy. We are not responsible for any accidents which occur in or around swimming pools due to your inappropriate, or irresponsible behaviour, or for any accidents which occur anywhere on properties because of glass, china or the like which you have broken and/or have left in a way in which injury can result.


We expect that you will enjoy your holiday with us. We appreciate that you may well drink alcohol as part of your enjoyment. You must, however, do so responsibly and we will have no liability to you for any injury, loss or damage you suffer as a result of your judgment being impaired wholly or partly by alcohol.


We will hold you and the members of your travelling party jointly and individually liable for any damage to the accommodation, furniture, apparatus or other materials located within the accommodation, together with any legal costs we incur in pursuing a claim. It is your duty to report any breakages, defects or damage to an appropriate person immediately.


If your behaviour or the behaviour of any members of your travelling party causes any transport aircraft to be diverted we and/or the carrier will hold you and those members jointly and individually liable for all costs incurred as a result of that diversion.


We cannot accept liability for the behaviour of others in your accommodation or flight, or for any facilities/services withdrawn as a result of their action.


Safety & Hygiene

Your health and safety is of paramount concern to us, and we want to make sure you have the best holiday possible. It is appropriate, therefore, that we bring to your attention the need to be careful and to take necessary precautions whilst overseas.


Your health and safety is of paramount concern to us, especially if children are involved. It is appropriate that we bring to your attention the need for you to be careful and to take necessary precautions whilst overseas and we need your help and cooperation with this. We would ask you to pay close attention to the following information, together with any other information we, our agents or suppliers, provide to you before you go, during your flight and when you arrive in your destination and at your hotel. It is most important that you familiarise yourself with this information and any other information you are given or on display, because not only do we want you to have a great holiday but we want you to have a safe holiday.


Swimming pools and water features: some of our hotels and apartments welcome local people and other holidaymakers not residing at the property to use the swimming pool and facilities within the accommodation. This can lead to pool areas becoming busy at times, for example sunbathing space and available sunloungers may become limited. Please make use of the pool shower facilities before swimming - this helps to prevent any potential infections and helps to keep the pool clean. Every pool is different and most hotels / apartments do not employ life guards, so you are strongly recommended to familiarise yourself with the pool layout, identifying the deep and shallow ends before using. Do not use the pool after dark or when the pool is closed, even if the pool has underwater lights. You should never swim when you have been drinking alcohol. Whilst some of our hotels and apartments have water features, such as slides or flumes, which may appear in our photography, generally we do not recommend these are used. It is possible such features may have been replaced or removed since the photography was taken.


Overseas safety Standards: Although the accommodation featured does operate to its own country's standards, regrettably the safety standards and regulations overseas may not be of the same level that we enjoy in the UK. For instance, the design and height of balconies may differ. The setting and enforcement of local regulations is a matter for the Authorities of the country and the foreign supplier of the services concerned. We are working with hoteliers to improve standards wherever possible. You should familiarise yourself with fire procedures, including emergency exits in your accommodation, the swimming pool(s) area and any unfamiliar cooking appliances.


Children: Children must be supervised by you at all times, especially near water, on balconies or in unfamiliar buildings and surroundings.


Stomach Upsets: It is still a relatively common occurrence to suffer gastric illness when travelling abroad and being exposed to a different environment. There are many ways you can reduce the possibility of being affected, such as, not eating undercooked food, avoiding ice in drinks, ensuring you drink plenty of bottled water and avoid over exposure to the sun.


Out and About: :Due to rough terrain and uneven surfaces, we recommend that you are extra careful and vigilant when visiting temples and other sites of interest and when crossing roads. Crimes against people and property are a fact of life throughout the world and you have the same responsibility for your own safety as you do at home. In some places the local police may not be very cooperative or interested when you report a theft or need insurance confirmation so always take care of your property. It is recommended not to approach cats and dogs and other animals as these may carry the rabies disease which can be passed on through bites and scratches. Please exercise caution before entering the sea as the seabed is not even and changes in depth. The sea is capable of springing surprises and we have not inspected the beach or seabed for its safety.


The Foreign and Commonwealth Travel Advice Unit may have issued information about your holiday destination. You are advised to check on the Internet under the address www.fco.gov.uk.


Photographs

Rooms shown in the photographs are not necessarily the hotel's standard.


Some of the photography featured in this on line guide has been supplied by external photographers or tourist boards.


Privacy Policy

To comply with the Data Protection Act we would like to advise you that in order to provide you with the products or services you require, the personal information you supply to us will be passed to relevant trusted partners or suppliers. This may involve sending your details to countries that do not have an equal level of privacy legislation to that in the UK. Your details may also be used for improving our customer service, analysis and occasionally, for the prevention of crime. We may also occasionally contact you by post or telephone to update you about great offers, products and services from Thomas Cook group companies and carefully selected third parties. Should you not wish to receive such information, please advise one of our sales consultants.


ABTA

Thomas Cook Tour Operations Ltd is a member of ABTA with membership number V6896. ABTA and ABTA members help holidaymakers to get the most from their travel and assist them when things do not go according to plan. We are obliged to maintain a high standard of service to you by ABTAs Code of Conduct. For further information about ABTA, the Code of Conduct and the arbitration scheme available to you if you have a complaint, contact ABTA, 30 Park Street London SE1 9EQ Tel: 0203 117 0500 or look at their website: www.abta.com


ATOL

Thomas Cook Tour Operations Ltd, trading as MyTravel hold an ATOL with number 1179. In the unlikely event of our insolvency, the CAA will ensure that you are not stranded abroad and will arrange to refund any money you have paid to us for an advance booking. For further information visit the ATOL website at www.atol.org.uk. £2.50 per person of the cost of air holiday packages or flights as appropriate is paid to the Civil Aviation Authority to provide ATOL Protection to you. This means the money you have paid for these arrangements is fully protected. Please ensure you retain a copy of your booking receipt and confirmation invoice. Please also note, the £2.50 charge is payable when you book your travel arrangements and is non-refundable if you cancel your booking. You can visit the CAA website and more importantly the ATOL page on the following link: www.atol.org.uk


Telephone Calls

To ensure we consistently deliver excellent customer service, telephone calls to our UK offices are recorded. Calls to 0844 numbers are charged at 5.2p per minute and calls to 0871 numbers are charged at 10.3p per minute (from BT fixed lines, mobile and other providers charges may vary)