Terms of Service

1. Definitions

• "Company," "We," "Us," "Our" refers to Oyster Holidays India, a travel agency based in Bangalore, Karnataka, India.
• "Client," "You," "Your" refers to the person making the booking and all travelers included in the booking.
• "Services" refers to all travel-related services including but not limited to tour packages, hotel bookings, flight reservations, transportation, visa assistance, and travel insurance.
• "Booking" refers to the reservation of any travel service through our company.
• "Service Providers" refers to third-party suppliers including airlines, hotels, transport operators, and tour operators.

2. Booking Terms and Conditions

2.1 Booking Confirmation

A booking is confirmed only after:

• Receipt of the required deposit or full payment as specified
• Issuance of a written confirmation from Oyster Holidays India
• Submission of all required documents (passport copies, visa applications, etc.)

2.2 Booking Accuracy

You are responsible for ensuring that:

• All personal details provided are accurate and match your travel documents
• Passport validity meets destination requirements (typically 6 months beyond travel dates)
• You have necessary visas and travel permits
• You meet health and vaccination requirements for your destination

We are not liable for any issues arising from incorrect information provided by you.

2.3 Group Leader Responsibility

The person making the booking (lead passenger) is responsible for communicating these terms to all travelers in the group and ensuring their compliance.

3. Payment Terms

3.1 Deposit Requirements

3.2 Balance Payment

The remaining balance must be paid:

• Domestic Tours: At least 15 days before departure
• International Tours: At least 30 days before departure
• Cruise Bookings: At least 45 days before departure

3.3 Payment Methods

We accept:

• Bank transfer (NEFT/RTGS/IMPS)
• Credit/Debit cards (subject to processing fees)
• UPI payments
• Cheques (subject to clearance before confirmation)

3.4 Currency and Pricing

All prices are quoted in Indian Rupees (INR) unless otherwise specified. For international packages, prices are subject to currency fluctuations and may be adjusted until final payment is received.

4. Cancellation and Refund Policy

4.1 Cancellation by Client

Cancellations must be made in writing (email or signed letter). The following charges apply:

4.2 Non-Refundable Components

The following are typically non-refundable regardless of cancellation timing:

• Airline tickets (subject to airline policies)
• Visa processing fees
• Travel insurance premiums
• Special event tickets or permits
• Peak season surcharges

4.3 Cancellation by Company

We reserve the right to cancel a booking due to:

• Insufficient participants for group tours (minimum threshold not met)
• Force majeure events (natural disasters, pandemics, political unrest)
• Government travel advisories or restrictions
• Non-payment of balance amount

In case of cancellation by us (except non-payment), you will receive a full refund or the option to reschedule.

4.4 Refund Processing

Approved refunds will be processed within 15-30 business days from the date of cancellation approval. Refunds will be made to the original payment method.

5. Changes and Amendments

5.1 Changes by Client

Requests to change booking details (dates, hotels, destinations) are subject to:

• Availability with service providers
• Amendment fees (minimum Rs. 2,500 per booking)
• Any fare differences or additional costs

5.2 Changes by Company

We reserve the right to make minor changes to itineraries due to:

• Operational requirements of service providers
• Weather conditions or seasonal variations
• Local regulations or restrictions
• Safety concerns

Significant changes will be communicated as soon as possible, and alternatives will be offered where feasible.

6. Agency Relationship and Third-Party Services

6.1 Our Role as Travel Agent

By engaging Oyster Holidays India, you understand and acknowledge that:

• We act solely as an agent and intermediary between you and various third-party service providers
• We do not own, operate, or control any airlines, hotels, cruise lines, transportation companies, tour operators, restaurants, activity providers, or any other service providers
• We are not the principal provider of any travel service and have no direct control over the services delivered by third parties
• Our role is limited to booking and coordinating travel arrangements on your behalf
• The actual delivery of services is the sole responsibility of the respective service providers

6.2 Third-Party Service Providers Include

The following entities are independent third parties over whom we have no control:

• Airlines and Aviation Companies: All domestic and international carriers
• Hotels and Accommodations: All hotels, resorts, homestays, guesthouses, and lodges
• Ground Transportation: Car rental companies, taxi services, bus operators, train services, ferry operators
• Tour Operators and Guides: Local tour operators, sightseeing companies, activity providers
• Cruise Lines: All cruise and boat operators
• Restaurants and Caterers: All food and beverage providers
• Insurance Companies: Travel insurance providers
• Visa Processing Agencies: Embassy services and visa facilitators
• Activity and Adventure Providers: Safari operators, adventure sports companies, entertainment venues

6.3 Acknowledgment of Third-Party Risks

By making a booking with Oyster Holidays India, you expressly acknowledge and accept that:

• Third-party service providers may fail to deliver services as promised
• Quality standards may vary and may not meet your expectations
• Service providers may change their terms, conditions, and pricing without notice
• Services may be modified, cancelled, or disrupted by the service provider
• You assume all risks associated with using third-party services
• Any claims or disputes regarding service quality must be directed to the respective service provider

7. Our Limited Responsibilities

As a travel agent, our responsibilities are strictly limited to:

• Making bookings and reservations as per your instructions
• Providing information based on details supplied by service providers
• Issuing confirmations and travel documents
• Providing reasonable assistance in communicating with service providers
• Offering 24/7 emergency contact support during travel
• Processing payments to service providers on your behalf

We do not guarantee the performance, quality, or suitability of any third-party service. Information provided about destinations and services is based on details from service providers and may not always be accurate or up-to-date.

8. Limitation of Liability and Disclaimer

8.1 Airline-Related Issues

Oyster Holidays India shall NOT be held liable for:

• Flight cancellations, delays, or schedule changes by any airline
• Flight diversions or re-routing decisions made by airlines
• Overbooking and denied boarding by airlines
• Aircraft changes resulting in different seating configurations
• Loss, damage, or delay of checked or carry-on baggage
• In-flight service quality, meal options, or entertainment
• Airline strikes, technical issues, or operational disruptions
• Airline bankruptcy, insolvency, or cessation of operations
• Changes to airline policies, baggage allowances, or fees
• Missed connections due to flight delays
• Refund policies and compensation claims against airlines

8.2 Hotel and Accommodation Issues

Oyster Holidays India shall NOT be held liable for:

• Hotel overbooking or relocation to alternative properties
• Room category, view, or amenity differences from expectations
• Hotel service quality, cleanliness, or maintenance issues
• Food quality, restaurant service, or dietary accommodation failures
• Hotel staff behavior or customer service issues
• Noise, construction, or disturbances at the property
• Wi-Fi, air conditioning, hot water, or facility failures
• Safety and security incidents on hotel premises
• Theft or loss of personal belongings at hotels
• Changes to hotel policies, check-in/check-out times, or amenities
• Pool, spa, gym, or other facility closures or restrictions
• Hotel renovations or refurbishment during your stay

8.3 Transportation Issues

Oyster Holidays India shall NOT be held liable for:

• Vehicle breakdowns, accidents, or mechanical failures
• Driver behavior, punctuality, or navigation errors
• Traffic delays, road closures, or diversions
• Vehicle condition, cleanliness, or air conditioning issues
• Train or bus delays, cancellations, or service disruptions
• Ferry or boat service delays, cancellations, or safety issues
• Loss or damage to luggage during ground transportation
• Personal injury during transportation services
• Vehicle insurance coverage or liability issues

8.4 Tour and Activity Issues

Oyster Holidays India shall NOT be held liable for:

• Tour cancellations or modifications by local operators
• Quality of guided tours, commentary, or expertise
• Attraction closures, restricted access, or crowd conditions
• Weather-related activity cancellations or modifications
• Adventure activity risks, injuries, or accidents
• Safari or wildlife viewing outcomes (no guarantee of sightings)
• Water sports, diving, or marine activity incidents
• Cultural experience authenticity or quality
• Shopping experiences, product quality, or vendor disputes
• Photography restrictions or equipment damage

8.5 Visa and Documentation Issues

Oyster Holidays India shall NOT be held liable for:

• Visa application rejections by embassies or consulates
• Delays in visa processing or issuance
• Changes to visa requirements or immigration policies
• Entry denial at immigration checkpoints
• Passport validity issues or documentation errors
• Loss of visa fees due to rejection or cancellation

8.6 Health, Safety, and Personal Issues

Oyster Holidays India shall NOT be held liable for:

• Illness, injury, or death during travel
• Medical emergencies or evacuation requirements
• Food poisoning or allergic reactions
• Insect bites, animal attacks, or wildlife encounters
• Theft, robbery, or criminal incidents
• Loss or damage to personal belongings, valuables, or documents
• Personal accidents or mishaps during travel
• Mental distress, emotional harm, or disappointment
• Pre-existing medical conditions aggravated during travel

8.7 Force Majeure and External Events

Oyster Holidays India shall NOT be held liable for disruptions caused by:

• Natural disasters: earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanic eruptions, floods, hurricanes, cyclones, landslides
• Weather events: storms, heavy rain, snowfall, fog, extreme temperatures
• Health emergencies: pandemics, epidemics, disease outbreaks, quarantine requirements
• Political events: war, civil unrest, riots, protests, coups, terrorism, political instability
• Government actions: travel bans, border closures, curfews, emergency declarations, visa suspensions
• Industrial actions: strikes, lockouts, labor disputes affecting any service provider
• Technical failures: power outages, system failures, cyber attacks affecting service providers
• Economic factors: currency devaluation, hyperinflation, service provider bankruptcy
• Any other events beyond our reasonable control

8.8 General Exclusions

Additionally, Oyster Holidays India shall NOT be liable for:

• Any consequential, indirect, or punitive damages
• Loss of enjoyment, holiday, or travel experience
• Lost business opportunities or income during travel
• Costs incurred due to trip interruption or curtailment
• Additional expenses due to service provider failures
• Differences between advertised images/descriptions and actual experiences
• Currency exchange rate fluctuations affecting costs
• Third-party website links, recommendations, or information accuracy

8.9 Maximum Liability Cap

9. Client Acknowledgment and Indemnification

9.1 Your Acknowledgment

By making a booking with Oyster Holidays India, you expressly acknowledge and agree that:

• You have read, understood, and accept these Terms of Service in their entirety
• You understand that Oyster Holidays India is only an agent and intermediary
• You accept all risks associated with travel and third-party service providers
• You will not hold Oyster Holidays India liable for any third-party failures, deficiencies, or negligence
• You understand that travel involves inherent risks and uncertainties
• You have been advised to purchase comprehensive travel insurance
• You accept that service quality and standards may vary

9.2 Indemnification

You agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Oyster Holidays India, its directors, employees, agents, and representatives from and against any and all claims, damages, losses, costs, and expenses (including legal fees) arising from:

• Your breach of these Terms of Service
• Your violation of any applicable laws or regulations
• Your negligent or wrongful conduct during travel
• Claims made by third parties arising from your actions
• Inaccurate information provided by you
• Your failure to comply with service provider terms and conditions

9.3 Release of Claims

You hereby release and forever discharge Oyster Holidays India from any and all claims, demands, damages, actions, and causes of action arising from or related to the acts, omissions, negligence, or defaults of any third-party service provider, and agree that all such claims shall be pursued directly against the responsible service provider.

10. Your Responsibilities

You are solely responsible for:

• Ensuring valid travel documents (passport with adequate validity, visas, permits)
• Verifying and complying with entry requirements of destination countries
• Meeting health requirements (vaccinations, health declarations, COVID protocols if applicable)
• Arriving at airports/stations with adequate time before departure
• Reading and complying with terms and conditions of all service providers
• Behaving responsibly and respecting local laws and customs
• Informing us of any special needs, medical conditions, or dietary requirements
• Purchasing adequate and comprehensive travel insurance
• Keeping copies of important documents and emergency contacts
• Safeguarding your personal belongings and valuables
• Making independent verification of critical travel information
• Assessing your own fitness for planned activities

11. Travel Insurance

We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance covering:

• Trip cancellation and interruption
• Medical emergencies and evacuation
• Baggage loss or delay
• Personal liability
• Travel delays

Travel insurance is mandatory for certain international destinations. We can assist you in obtaining appropriate coverage.

12. Complaints and Dispute Resolution

12.1 During Travel

If you encounter any issues during your trip, please contact our 24/7 helpline immediately at +91-9880572995. Many issues can be resolved on the spot if reported promptly.

12.2 After Travel

Formal complaints must be submitted in writing within 30 days of your return. Include:

• Booking reference number
• Detailed description of the issue
• Supporting documentation (photos, receipts, correspondence)
• Proposed resolution

12.3 Resolution Timeline

We will acknowledge your complaint within 48 hours and provide a detailed response within 30 days.

13. Intellectual Property

All content on our website, including text, images, logos, itineraries, and design elements, is the property of Oyster Holidays India or its licensors. You may not reproduce, distribute, or use any content without our prior written consent.

14. Governing Law and Jurisdiction

The parties agree to attempt to resolve any disputes through good-faith negotiation before initiating legal proceedings. If negotiations fail, mediation may be attempted before proceeding to litigation.

15. Severability

If any provision of these Terms is found to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall continue in full force and effect. The invalid provision shall be modified to the minimum extent necessary to make it valid and enforceable while preserving its original intent.

16. Entire Agreement

These Terms of Service, together with our Privacy Policy and any booking confirmation documents, constitute the entire agreement between you and Oyster Holidays India regarding the use of our services. Any prior agreements, representations, or understandings are superseded by these Terms.

17. Amendments to Terms

We reserve the right to modify these Terms at any time. Changes will be effective upon posting to our website. For existing bookings, the Terms in effect at the time of booking shall apply unless otherwise agreed.

We encourage you to review these Terms periodically for any updates.

18. Contact Information

For questions about these Terms of Service or our services, please contact us: