Castle Explorers Travel Agency - Terms & Conditions 

These Terms & Conditions (“Agreement”) govern the relationship between Castle Explorers (“we,” “us,” “our”) and the client/purchaser/passenger (“you,” “your”). By planning and booking travel services with Castle Explorers, you agree to be bound by these terms and acknowledge that Castle Explorers acts solely as a booking agent for disclosed principal supplier tour operators, cruise lines, hotels, airlines, air charters, bus companies, ground transportation, boat purveyors or owners, and other independent contractors providing accommodations, transportation, and other services (“Supplier(s)”) and is not the source or provider of the travel services. These terms include warranties and disclaimers and exclusions of liability and may restrict your rights and remedies and provide protection to Castle Explorers.

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1. Use of Castle Explorers Services & Client Responsibilities

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By booking travel services with Castle Explorers, you warrant that you are at least 18 years of age and possess the legal authority to enter into this Agreement and make travel bookings on your behalf or on behalf of others in your traveling party. You agree to be financially responsible for all travel bookings made with Castle Explorers, whether for yourself or others in your group. You further warrant that all information provided by you, on behalf of yourself, your household members, or others you are authorized to represent, is accurate and true.

You agree that all bookings made with Castle Explorers will be legitimate. Any speculative, false, or fraudulent reservations are strictly prohibited. Castle Explorers acts solely as a booking agent for the travel suppliers associated with your itinerary, and the terms and conditions of these suppliers will apply to any travel-related services or goods you select. By booking travel through Castle Explorers, you accept and agree to the terms and conditions of each supplier involved in your itinerary.

Castle Explorers is not liable or responsible for any travel arrangements made independently of our agency. This includes, but is not limited to, arrangements for flights, hotels, excursions, and travel protection that you book outside of our services. Should you make your own flight arrangements, Castle Explorers assumes no responsibility for any issues arising from flight cancellations, changes in international gateways, alterations to your itinerary, or travel date changes.

Additionally, we cannot assist with schedule changes or delays for flights booked independently. Please note that loyalty points, including frequent flyer or hotel rewards, may not always be earned or redeemed for travel arrangements booked through Castle Explorers, except where specifically permitted by the Supplier.

Castle Explorers travel advisors operate as independent contractors under the Castle Explorers brand. All bookings are processed under the Castle Explorers agency umbrella.

Castle Explorers is a registered Seller of Travel in Florida, license number ST44008.

2. Payments, Cancellations, and Changes to Bookings

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You are fully responsible for all charges, fees, taxes, and assessments related to your travel bookings through Castle Explorers. By submitting a credit card authorization, you authorize Castle Explorers to use your payment method to purchase travel products from our Suppliers on your behalf. Except in cases of fraud, you agree not to initiate disputes with your bank or credit card company in a manner that would circumvent this Agreement or violate any booking terms and conditions of Castle Explorers or its Suppliers. If you attempt a chargeback, reversal, or recollection of any previously authorized payment, Castle Explorers reserves the right to collect all additional costs, fees, and expenses incurred as a result, reasonable attorney fees and collection costs.

A. Deposits and Payments A deposit or full payment is required at the time of booking, depending on the Supplier’s terms. Castle Explorers travel advisors are independent contractors and may, at their discretion, charge a non-refundable planning or consultation fee. Such fees, amounts, and terms are disclosed by the individual advisor at the time of agreement and may be applied to a confirmed booking if the client proceeds with the trip.

B. Final Payments Final payment deadlines vary by Supplier and must be met to avoid cancellation. Failure to make final payment may result in the cancellation of your reservation and the forfeiture of any payments made.

C. Price Changes Prices are subject to change until full payment is received, and the booking is confirmed. Once full payment is made, the price is locked in.

D. Availability All travel packages, flights, and accommodations are subject to availability. Castle Explorers cannot guarantee availability, and we recommend booking early to secure the best rates and options.

E. Cancellations All cancellation requests must be submitted in writing to your Castle Explorers travel advisor. Cancellations are subject to the terms, conditions, and penalties of each Supplier (including but not limited to cruise lines, airlines, hotels, and tour operators). Castle Explorers has no control over Supplier-imposed cancellation policies and is not responsible for any fees, refunds, or penalties assessed by them.

In addition to any Supplier-imposed penalties, Castle Explorers charges a non-refundable cancellation fee to cover administrative time, lost commission, and processing costs. The cancellation fee is based on the total trip cost as follows:

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This fee will be charged to the card on file, or to a card you provide to us at the time of cancellation. Non-refundable planning fees charged by your travel advisor are retained in full and are separate from this cancellation fee. Travel insurance premiums are non-refundable

once purchased. Any Supplier-imposed penalties or non-refundable amounts are in addition to the agency’s cancellation fee.

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F. Reservation Ownership and Agency Management

All reservations booked through Castle Explorers remain under the management and control of Castle Explorers and/or its independent travel advisors until completion or full cancellation. Clients may not assume ownership, direct control, or attempt to contact suppliers directly regarding their reservation.

If a client wishes to rebook independently, Castle Explorers will cancel the existing reservation on their behalf, and any refund will be processed directly by the supplier, minus any applicable agency or cancellation fees.

Castle Explorers is not responsible for pricing, availability, or terms when rebooking outside the agency. Any applicable cancellation fees will still apply.

Independent travel advisors operate under the Castle Explorers brand as independent contractors. While they may assist with travel arrangements, they are not personally liable for supplier actions, defaults, or non-performance.

G. Changes to Bookings If you decide to change any portion of your confirmed travel arrangements, Castle Explorers will assist to the best of our ability. However, certain bookings may not be changeable, and you will be responsible for any increase in cost imposed by the Supplier, as well as any change fees. All change requests must be made in writing.

H. Payment Authorization and Chargebacks By submitting payment, you authorize Castle Explorers to charge all applicable amounts, including booking costs, agency fees, and cancellation fees. Attempted chargebacks for legitimate fees may result in collection actions, including legal fees. Clients agree to contact Castle Explorers directly to resolve any concerns before initiating a dispute with their bank or credit card company.

3. Travel Insurance

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Castle Explorers strongly recommends purchasing travel insurance for all bookings. Insurance can protect against trip cancellations, interruptions, medical emergencies, lost luggage, and other unforeseen circumstances.

Travel insurance is optional but highly recommended to protect your investment. Declining insurance means you accept full financial responsibility for any losses, penalties, or additional costs incurred. Castle Explorers and travel advisors are not responsible for denied claims or coverage limits imposed by the insurance provider. All travel insurance fees are non-refundable.

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4. Client Responsibilities and Obligations

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A. Fees and Payment Responsibilities

Clients are responsible for all cancellation fees, penalties, or charges imposed by both the Supplier and Castle Explorers, including any non-refundable planning fees charged by their travel advisor.

Any amounts due will be charged to the payment method provided at the time of booking or a card submitted to us at the time of cancellation. Attempting to bypass agency management may result in loss of agency support, additional fees, or denial of refund.

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B. Independent Travel Advisors

Independent travel advisors operate under the Castle Explorers brand as independent contractors. While they may assist with travel arrangements, they are not personally liable for Supplier actions, defaults, non-performance, or cancellations.

C. Travel Documentation

Clients must obtain and carry valid passports, visas, and other required documentation. Castle Explorers is not responsible for denied entry, missed travel, or delays resulting from improper documentation.

D. Entry and Exit Requirements

Clients are responsible for verifying all entry, exit, and vaccination requirements. Non-compliance may result in denied boarding or fines. assumes no liability for costs or consequences resulting from non-compliance.

E. Health, Immunizations, and Special Needs

Clients are responsible for all health requirements, immunizations, and screenings. Castle Explorers and advisors are not liable for illness, injury, or loss due to non-compliance or failure to disclose medical conditions.

F. Special Needs and Accessibility

Clients must notify Castle Explorers of disabilities or special needs in advance. Agency or advisor assistance is limited to coordinating with Suppliers and cannot guarantee accommodations or modifications.

5. Risks and Safety

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Travel to certain destinations may involve varying degrees of risk, and it is your responsibility to remain informed about the conditions of your destination. Clients are responsible for monitoring all safety, health, and travel advisories. Castle Explorers provides the following resources for reference only and assumes no responsibility for their content or for changes made by these agencies: ·

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U.S. Department of State

TSA (Transportation Security Administration)

U.S. Department of Transportation

FAA (Federal Aviation Administration)

CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)

U.S. Customs and Border Protection

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By offering travel to specific destinations, Castle Explorers does not warrant or guarantee that travel is without risk. We are not liable for any costs, damages, or losses resulting from traveling to these destinations. Your participation constitutes acceptance of these risks.

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Certain activities included in your itinerary may involve inherent risks and potential dangers. Your itinerary may include remote areas, changing weather, wildlife, or hazardous situations. Physical exertion required by some activities may worsen pre-existing injuries or conditions. Clients should seek medical advice if uncertain.

You may be required to wear safety equipment for specific activities. It is your responsibility to use provided equipment correctly and follow safety instructions.

Federal law prohibits carrying hazardous materials on aircraft. Violations may result in imprisonment or fines. For exceptions and details, see TSA guidance. http://www.tsa.gov/traveler-information/prohibited-items

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In emergencies, Castle Explorers will assess the situation and, at our sole discretion, may alter or cancel the itinerary. We will make reasonable efforts to assist, but the client remains responsible for all costs related to continuation or cancellation.

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6. Air Travel, Schedule Reconfirmation, Check-in

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When you purchase airline tickets through Castle Explorers, your ticket constitutes a contract between you and the air carrier. By booking through Castle Explorers, you acknowledge that we do not control airline operations and are not liable for injury, property damage, or losses caused by the airline.

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Castle Explorers functions solely as a booking agent and does not hold client funds for airline tickets. Refunds, baggage fees, or seat assignments must come directly from the airline.

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Castle Explorers is not responsible for schedule changes or departure taxes. Failure to use a reservation may result in automatic cancellation of all continuing and return flights.

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Airline e-tickets generally expire one year from issue unless specified. Frequent flyer mileage accrual is at the airline’s discretion. Castle Explorers is not liable if miles or upgrades are denied. Seat assignments are not guaranteed; most airlines charge fees for pre-booking seats.

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7. Limitations of Responsibility and Force Majeure

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Castle Explorers acts solely as a booking agent for disclosed principal Suppliers. Suppliers are independent and responsible for their own operations, policies, and services.

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Castle Explorers may book wellness travel (yoga, meditation, spa treatments, etc.). We do not guarantee improvements to physical, mental, or spiritual well-being and are not responsible for injuries or adverse effects, including pre-existing conditions.

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By participating, you acknowledge inherent risks, including injury, illness, disability, death, or economic loss. You assume all risks related to participation, including travel to and from activity locations.

Castle Explorers does not control Supplier operations and is not liable for personal injury, property damage, or losses caused by Supplier acts, omissions, defaults, or cancellations.

Castle Explorers receives commission and/or service fees, and any recovery from Castle Explorers is limited to the amount of commission and/or fees actually received.

Castle Explorers will not be liable for failure or delay due to circumstances beyond our reasonable control, including acts of God, war, terrorism, natural disasters, strikes, pandemics, or governmental actions.

Clients are strongly encouraged to purchase travel insurance. Suppliers may have their own Force Majeure policies; any refunds are at the Supplier’s discretion.

8. Client Conduct and Termination of Services

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Clients acknowledge responsibility for damage or loss caused by their actions. Clients agree to pay suppliers directly and indemnify Castle Explorers for any claims, including legal fees. Castle Explorers is not liable for removal of guests or loss of property.

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Use, possession, or transportation of illegal drugs will result in immediate termination of services and possible legal action. Clients must comply with all drug laws, including prescriptions.

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Respectful Conduct: Clients must treat suppliers, guides, and fellow travelers with courtesy and respect at all times.

Termination of Services: Behavior deemed disruptive may result in immediate termination without refund.

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9. Reservation Ownership and Cancellations

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All reservations remain under Castle Explorers management. Clients may not assume ownership or contact suppliers directly. Rebooking outside the agency does not remove applicable cancellation fees.

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All cancellation requests must be in writing. Cancellations are subject to Supplier-imposed terms and Castle Explorers’ non-refundable fees.

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Travel Insurance: Castle Explorers strongly recommends the purchase of travel insurance to protect against cancellation penalties, trip interruptions, or unforeseen circumstances.

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10. Reservation of Rights and Changes to These Terms

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Castle Explorers reserves the right to update these Terms at any time, effective immediately upon posting or client notification.

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General Legal Protections: Castle Explorers is Tennessee-based. Tennessee law governs, and all claims must be filed within 12 months after trip completion. No punitive damages may be claimed; claims are individual only.

Invalid provisions will be replaced with valid provisions most closely aligned with the original intent, with the remainder remaining in full effect.

This Agreement constitutes the complete contract between the Client and Castle Explorers and supersedes all prior communications. Printed or electronic versions are admissible as original documents.

Registration Form – Box to Approve

By submitting payment, you certify that you are the cardholder and are authorizing Castle Explorers, your Castle Explorers travel advisor, or its chosen Supplier to charge the listed amount to the credit card provided. You confirm that all information on your booking confirmation is accurate and that you have read and understand the Castle Explorers Terms & Conditions (located here: https://www.castleexplorerstravel.com/termsandconditions) as well as the details of any applicable Travel Protection Plan.

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You acknowledge that cancellation penalties may apply, and that any Travel Protection Plan purchased is non-refundable. Any charges applied by the agency or your independent travel advisor will be reflected on your reservation; in some cases, the payment may be processed by the Supplier or airline directly. Processing may take 3–5 business days to appear on your credit card statement.

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If there are any issues with your payment, your travel advisor will contact you directly. By submitting payment, you agree that Castle Explorers and its travel advisors are not responsible for any delays in processing by the Supplier or credit card issuer.