Accommodation Only Terms And Conditions

Kuoni Disclaimer 

We try to ensure that the information contained on our website and in our promotional material is accurate and up to date. However, resort and supplier information can change and errors can regrettably occur. We reserve the right to amend and/or give notice to any significant changes at the time of booking and recommend that you undertake a level of independent research or speak to one of our trained sales advisors should you wish to clarify any information.  

Representative Services 

Please note we do not have representative services available in all the destinations we feature and therefore you will not necessarily be met on arrival. Please ensure that you refer to your itinerary which will provide the appropriate contact details should you need assistance whilst on holiday.

Terms and Conditions

The Terms & Conditions (“booking conditions”) below apply to all accommodation-only holiday bookings made with Kuoni, a trading brand of DER Touristik UK Ltd. For the purpose of these booking conditions ‘accommodation-only’ includes any bookings where additional services have been requested but do not, when combined, constitute a Package holiday or Linked Travel Arrangement as defined within The Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018.

We are registered in England and Wales under company number 395623. Our registered office address is:Touristik House, Dorking Business Park, Dorking, Surrey, RH4 1HJ. Where you have made a package holiday booking please refer to the relevant booking conditions, which can be found here.

These booking conditions form the basis of your accommodation-only holiday contract with Kuoni. Please read them carefully as they, together with the specific information about your confirmed arrangements, set out our respective rights and obligations. By asking us to confirm your booking, we are entitled to assume that you have had the opportunity to read and have read these terms and conditions and agree to them.

Except where otherwise stated, these booking conditions only apply to holiday arrangements which you book with us in the UK and which we agree to make, provide or perform (as applicable) as part of our contract with you. All references in these booking conditions to “holiday”, “booking”, “contract” or “arrangements” mean such holiday arrangements unless otherwise stated.

In these booking conditions, “you” and “your” means all persons named on the booking (including anyone who is added or substituted at a later date) or any of them, as the context requires and “lead name” means the person who makes the booking. “We”, “us” and “our” means Kuoni.

Before you book

1.1 Choosing Your Holiday

We hope your Kuoni holiday will live up to expectation, so it is very important that you choose the right holiday for you. Our staff are always happy to advise and give you their professional opinion; however it is important that you also conduct your own independent research to ensure you are happy with the arrangements being made. 

Please visit the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office website at https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice or visit www.gov.uk/travelaware. Packed with essential travel advice and tips, these websites offer a wealth of country-specific information. The advice can change, so please check regularly for updates. 

1.2 Third Party bookings

Where holiday arrangements are booked with Kuoni, your contract will be with us and these booking conditions apply. Further conditions may also be applied by our suppliers and together these make the ‘conditions of contract’ and constitute the entire agreement between you and Kuoni. We will make it clear to you at the point of sale if Kuoni is acting as an agent for another holiday provider. In such instances, your contract will be with them as the Principal provider, although the relevant terms of our own booking conditions will also apply.

Many of our supplier’s terms and conditions can be found on their websites and we can also provide you with a copy at the time of booking, upon request. By proceeding with a booking, you acknowledge that you have read and understood all of the Conditions of Contract and agree to be bound by them. All local/in resort accounts must be settled directly with the supplier.

1.3 Hotel Grades

Choosing the right hotel can be a dilemma, especially when travelling to long haul destinations. Whilst most hotels have official star ratings locally, in some cases these cannot always be relied on. We have categorised all hotels throughout our brochures and online to give a general guide. Standards can however vary between hotels of the same class, in different countries, and even in the same country. For example, city hotels which often cater for business as well as leisure travellers may have generally higher standards than a beach resort where the atmosphere will tend to be more relaxed. It is important to carefully read the individual hotel descriptions.

1.4 Single Rooms

If a single person occupies a double room, they will usually be asked to pay extra (a single supplement). Hotels generally price their rooms as doubles or family rooms and they do not reduce the rates if they are occupied by a single person. The costs to the hotel of providing the room remain the same, regardless of how many people occupy it. This also applies to self-catering units where, for example, three people may choose to occupy accommodation priced for four. Where available, hotel design may mean that single rooms are smaller and sometimes less well-appointed than other categories. 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. Please check to see if any special offers or single saver rates are available at your preferred hotel.

1.5 Twin Or Double Rooms

Accommodation in all hotels, regardless of the rating, is in standard rooms (sometimes named superior/deluxe) based on twins or doubles unless otherwise stated.

1.6 Triple/Quad Rooms

A third or fourth person sharing a room either shares existing beds or has an extra bed (which may be of camp-bed style) placed in a double/twin room. As conditions may be cramped, you may wish to consider booking two rooms.

1.7 Travelling with Children

If you are travelling with young children, it is important to note that child seats are not provided for transfers and the legislation varies from country to country. If you specifically require a car seat, we advise you to either take your own with you, or call our Sales team, and we will do our utmost to try and arrange this for you - there may well be an additional charge for this.

1.8 Free child accommodation stays

Where we offer 'free child accommodation stays' at many of our hotels, these are generally based on sharing existing beds in the room. If you require a separate bed, you must advise us at the time of booking, as there may well be a charge added to your booking, or this charge may be payable locally. Any meal plan charges will still apply.

1.9 Minimum Stays

Minimum stays are required at certain hotels for certain periods. Where applicable these will be advised at time of booking.

1.10 Booking A Room For Early Arrival Or Late Departure

Generally hotel rooms will be available between approximately noon and 3pm, and are to be vacated between 10 am and noon, irrespective of your arrival or departure times, unless we have stated otherwise. Should you wish your room to be ready prior to noon on your day of arrival or available after 10 am for an afternoon or evening departure, it is possible to reserve the room at the time of booking at a cost no greater than the extra night price quoted on the brochure page.

1.11 Room Upgrade/Honeymoon/Anniversary Offers

When the offer of a room upgrade is included with your booking, it is not necessarily an upgrade to the next category featured in our brochure, but usually an upgrade to the next category of room (not suite) available within the hotel. We will of course do everything possible to arrange the provision of a double bed for honeymoon couples but it is not always possible to guarantee this and the provision of a double bed does not constitute a term of your contract with us. Anniversary offers only apply if you’re celebrating your Silver (25th) or Golden (50th) wedding anniversary while on holiday.

Remember to advise us if it your honeymoon or Silver/Golden anniversary and to take a copy of your marriage certificate with you on holiday. In order to qualify for a special offer, the corresponding part of your stay must be started and completed within the date band specified, under the individual offers as stated. For hotel sale discounts and bonus night offers, where there is a minimum stay requirement, the nights spent at the hotel must be consecutive. Any offers shown are correct at the time of publishing, but they may change at short notice, and not all offers can be combined. For the most up to date and available offers, please contact your travel agent and/or our sales team, or check on-line to check which offers apply to your holiday.

1.12 General health requirements

Certain properties or locations may not suitable if you have a disability or have reduced mobility (including being confined to a wheelchair). Therefore, in the interest of your safety and comfort, you must be fit enough to travel or alternatively you must have an able bodied carer to assist you. Please note that some properties we feature may require substantial transfer times. As vehicle and road standards may not be comparable to that of the UK, please keep this in mind when considering any personal health concerns, as well as your general comfort.

1.13 Extras

At certain hotels we may offer a complimentary lunch, dinner, or hotel bar credit. At other hotels we may offer up to a 20% discount on food and/or beverage extras usually payable at the end of your stay. This offer is not available if you pay by credit card, nor is a cash alternative available.

1.14 Bonus Night Offers

Where we specify bonus night offers this will not necessarily mean bonus nights are multiplied if you book a longer duration, therefore, please ensure you ask at the time of booking to clarify the number of bonus nights you will receive.

1.15 All Inclusive & Hotels For Couples

Some hotels specified ‘for couples’ cater for mixed sex couples only and in some countries, such as Sri Lanka and Dubai same sex couples are illegal. We recommend that if you are a same sex couple, you thoroughly research your chosen hotel/destination before you book, to ensure it is suitable.

Hotels often place restrictions on restaurants and meal arrangements. All Inclusive does not necessarily mean that unlimited food and beverages are available 24-hours a day and it is uncommon for minibars to be included in such packages. Individual hotels will operate different policies and full details will be provided locally.

1.16 Experiences

Experiences which form part of your package: For package holidays, please refer to our package booking conditions.

Experiences which do not form part of your holiday contract: We are also able to offer assistance and reserve certain experiences and activities for you, for which you pay locally. In these circumstances, we only act as a booking agent for the operator or the excursion or activity concerned. Your contract will therefore be with the local operator which provides it and it does not from part of your contracted holiday arrangements with us. The contract will be subject to the local operator’s terms and conditions, some of which may exclude or limit its liability to you, and will be governed by local law and jurisdiction. Kuoni accepts no liability for any breach of contract or negligent act or omission of any excursion/activity provider.

1.17 Children On Holiday

Accommodation offers are subject to availability of triple or quad rooms. Please note meals are not provided for infants. Any charge for a baby cot in the room and food are paid by the guest direct to the hotel. We do not allow holidays for children under 10 on escorted tours, coach tours or on safari (unless in private minibus). Some destinations, owing to their lack of special child or medical facilities are also not suitable for very young children but we would be happy to advise which hotels or resorts we think suit your requirements best. See the relevant price box where any specific minimum age restrictions are given.

1.18 Under 18's Travelling Without Parents

Please note, under 18 year olds travelling without their parents will need to have written authority from them, confirming they are permitted to travel. This should be translated where necessary, with both copies notarised. This is necessary for certain countries only and you should ensure that you check the specific requirements of the relevant country to which you are travelling, as you may be refused entry if you do not hold the necessary documentation.

1.19 Public Holidays / Local Festivals / Events

Virtually all countries have public holidays, religious or otherwise. The festivities may temporarily disrupt your holiday and some religious holidays such as Ramadan, which affects many Muslim countries, may result in a reduction of facilities and entertainment. Regional festivals and events may also take place throughout the year. They can be somewhat chaotic but are generally great fun to be a part of. You should research your desired destination, if you have concerns about what impact these may have on your holiday. The appropriate Tourist Offices are happy to supply more detailed information.

1.20 Other Hotel Guests

Many hotels, especially in cities and major resorts, accommodate weddings, conventions and conferences. Also, some destinations may have an influx of groups such as students, associations or clubs. The hotels we feature are shared with guests from many countries with different cultures and customs. We have no control over the acceptance of bookings at the hotels that we feature. We are therefore unable to accept responsibility for any inconvenience caused by such groups or their activities.

1.21 Holiday Seasons

Most of the destinations we feature are available all year round. Some do have quieter 'off peak' periods when you can take advantage of uncrowded beaches and a more personal attention from hotel staff at excellent prices. At this time it may be necessary for hotels to scale down the size of some of their facilities, such as restaurants, to match demand. Similarly, during peak periods hotels experience full occupancy which may result in a livelier atmosphere and slower service in busier facilities.

1.22 Meals

i) Meals, if included, are based on table d’hôte menus or a meal voucher system, unless specified otherwise in the text. Holidays which include main meals generally commence with dinner on the day of arrival at your hotel and terminate with breakfast (on half board) or lunch (on full board) on the day of departure. All Inclusive packages generally finish at check-out time on your day of departure between 10am and noon. After this time, payment for any additional meals must be made direct to the hotel. No refunds on meals not taken can be given.

ii) Special diets of any kind (including vegetarian) can seldom be catered for adequately within the constraints of a table d’hôte menu and cannot be guaranteed. Anyone with special requirements should consider which meal plan is most suitable for their needs.

iii) Where breakfast is included this will more commonly be continental breakfast, although full breakfasts are provided at certain hotels. Please ask at the time of booking if this is important to you.

iv) Supplements for optional meal plans offer you the opportunity of being able to budget for extra costs before you go. In some cases you may find the cost of the meal cheaper locally, however we regret that it will not be possible to refund the difference either during or after your holiday.

v) Pre booked meals may be subject to dining in the main restaurant only and on occasion it may be necessary to be seated with other hotel guests. If you have paid a half board supplement it may be possible in some hotels to ask for a credit from the table d’hôte dinner to be used against a meal in an à la carte restaurant. Please note that the value of the voucher will generally be considerably less than the half board supplement included in your holiday price.
vi) You may need to wear a wristband or carry some ID to get the benefits of your package. For a full description of what’s included, check the hotel description. Hotels often place restrictions on restaurants and meal arrangements. Times for inclusive drinks, meals and snacks vary. All Inclusive does not necessarily mean that unlimited food and beverages are available 24-hours a day and it is uncommon for minibars to be included in such packages. An All Inclusive package may not include bottled water, imported drinks, à la carte meals, or some specialty dishes. Some restaurants expect you to reserve a table and will be subject to availability. Not all bars and restaurants operate on an All Inclusive basis. Also, there may be cash bars once participating All Inclusive bars close.

1.23 Smoking

The majority of airlines have introduced a total smoking ban on most or all of their flights. Many hotels also now have a non-smoking policy in hotel rooms and public areas, although this is not always the case. Please ask at the time of booking if this information is important to you.

1.24 Special Requests

Where a special request e.g. diet, room location, twin or double bedded room, a particular facility at a hotel etc. is an important factor in your choice of holiday, you must advise us before your booking is made. We are happy to pass your request on but cannot guarantee that it will be accommodated. The provision of any special request does not constitute a term of your contract with us. Confirmation that a special request has been noted or passed on to the supplier or the inclusion of the special request on your confirmation invoice or any other documentation is not confirmation that the request will be met. Unless and until specifically confirmed, all special requests are subject to availability. For your own protection, you should obtain confirmation in writing that a special request will be complied (where it is possible to give this) where it is important to you.

1.25 If You Have A Disability Or Medical Condition Which May Affect Your Holiday

If you have any medical condition or disability which may affect your holiday or any special requirements as a result of any medical condition or disability (including any which affect the booking process), please tell us before you confirm your booking so that we can assist you in considering the suitability of the arrangements and/or making the booking. In any event, you must give us full details in writing at the time of booking and whenever any significant change in the condition or disability occurs. You must also promptly advise us if any medical condition or disability which may affect your holiday develops after your booking has been confirmed.

1.26 Excursion/Meal Packages

Excursion or meal packages which are offered are not always cheaper than buying the same arrangements locally. It is often the case that these packages are offered for the convenience of being both booked and paid for in the UK. The cost of any unused meals or excursions may not be refunded.

1.27 Local Purchases

We cannot accept responsibility for any items you may purchase locally e.g.: jewellery/furniture etc. and the quality and value of such cannot be guaranteed. We recommend that you check whether or not any extra charges will be payable for import duty or freight as we are unable to assist with any costs you may incur in this respect.

1.28 Group Transfers

Our holidays include group transfers from airports/hotels and vice versa unless otherwise stated on the appropriate pages or your documentation. A group transfer is generally a shared transfer and the type of vehicle used will normally be dependent upon the size of the group, with stops being made en route to drop off/pick up other clients. The duration of your transfer will be dependent upon the individual arrangements required. Alternatively, in many destinations, we offer the choice of upgrading to your own private transfer at the appropriate cost. Please note some transfer arrangements may require reconfirmation locally. Be sure to check your travel documentation prior to departure.

1.29 Weather

World weather is becoming more erratic and unpredictable and we cannot be held responsible for disappointment or disruption to your holiday due to bad or unusual weather conditions.

1.30 Our Staff

We pride ourselves on the quality and friendly professionalism of our staff. In our search to continually try and improve our level of service, we are committed to on-going training, part of which involves the recording of phone calls.

1.31 Late Bookings & Special Offers

Please note that many of the hotels included in our late bookings and/or special offers are also featured in our other main brochures/website. Any offers/facilities detailed therein are not applicable to late bookings or special offers unless otherwise stated.

1.32 Kuoni Exclusive properties

We feature hotels and resorts around the world where we have exclusive booking rights as a tour operator based in the UK. Kuoni Exclusives may be booked via your local travel agent, as part of a Kuoni holiday. Properties listed as Kuoni Exclusive may be available to book directly or via third party providers, based overseas.

1.33 Fees & Taxes

Unless otherwise stated, your booking does not include visa fees, overseas airport taxes, overseas porterage or local taxes, levies or other compulsory charges that require payment by you, directly. Where possible, we will advise you of any local charges that may be due.

1.34 Peak Season Supplements

During peak periods such as Christmas and Easter when demand outstrips the supply of accommodation, you may find that supplements are added to the cost of your holiday. The supplements may be for certain holiday departures and/or accommodation on specific dates. They do not necessarily indicate that additional services such as Gala dinners will be provided. The cost of these supplements will be quoted to you at the time of booking.

1.35 Services outside of your contract with Kuoni 

If you have made any independent arrangements to complement the holiday services being provided by Kuoni, we will not be liable to you for these elements of your trip and your contract will be directly with the third party suppliers. Where we agree to provide transfer services to or from any such third party product or destination, our doing so offers no endorsement of the product or destination and our liability will remain limited only to ensuring that the contracted elements of your holiday package with Kuoni are provided as promised.

Booking & paying for your holiday

2.1 Deposit

When you or your Travel Agent make a request to book, you must pay a deposit of either £175 per person or 10% of the holiday cost, whichever is the greater, or any higher deposit which applies to your holiday which will be communicated to you. The deposit will only be refundable as set out in these booking conditions. We reserve the right in our absolute discretion to refuse to accept any booking without necessarily specifying a reason. We will ask you at the time of booking to provide us with your title and full name, as it is shown in your passport.

2.2 Amendments

If you wish to make a modification to your proposed arrangements we will try to assist. Should you wish to change to an alternative featured hotel, this will be charged at the difference in published price and will be subject to availability. Should you wish to extend your holiday by making your own private arrangements, this can usually be done subject to an administrative charge of £3 per person per night. We accept various methods of payment, however please note that if you choose to pay by credit card, there will be a charge levied. You can of course opt for an alternative method of payment i.e. cheque or by debit card.

2.3 Information At The Point Of Sale

Before your booking is confirmed and a contract comes into existence, we reserve the right to increase or decrease, and correct errors in advertised prices and to change any of the service information as may be required. Changes will be made known to you at the time of booking.

2.4 Out of Date Range Accommodation

Where you wish to make a booking well in advance of departure, the service you have requested may not then available. Where you ask us to make such a booking, we will confirm the service, subject to availability, and quote the applicable price when it is available to book. If the service cannot subsequently be booked as requested or you are not prepared to pay the applicable price, you may cancel this and receive a refund of the amount you have paid in respect of this service.

2.5 Confirming Your Booking

A booking is not accepted until we issue an invoice. The date shown on the invoice, which will be sent to you or your Travel Agent, is the date of booking. It is important to check the details on the invoice when you get it. If any details appear to be incorrect or incomplete, please contact us or your Travel Agent immediately as it may not be possible to make changes later. We regret we cannot accept any liability if we are not notified of any inaccuracy (for which we are responsible) in any document within 10 days of our sending it out. We will do our best to rectify any mistake notified to us outside these time limits but you must meet any costs involved in doing so. Once your booking is confirmed, you will be given a reference number. Your booking reference is also used as your unique password. It is important that you do not give your reference number to anyone or it will allow access to view, amend or cancel your booking via our website.

2.6 Confirmation Invoice & Payments Due

After your booking is taken and a deposit received, a confirmation invoice will be sent to you detailing the total cost due. Full payment must be received not less than 61 days before departure. If we or your travel agent have not received full payment at least 61 days before departure, we reserve the right to treat your booking as cancelled by you and you will forfeit your deposit by way of cancellation charges. If we do not cancel straight away because you have promised to make payment, you must pay the cancellation charges shown in 3.3 depending on the date we reasonably treat your booking as cancelled. If you make a holiday booking within 61 days of your departure date then you must pay the full cost of the holiday at the booking stage. All money paid by you to one of our authorised travel agents for your holiday will be held by the agent on our behalf until paid to us.

2.7 Travel Information and Documentation

After booking you will receive an invoice with important information relevant to your destination. Please ensure that you check the details carefully and read all of the information provided. Approximately 10-14 days prior to departure you will receive your final itinerary. In the case of late bookings, changes or payments, this information may be emailed to you to ensure receipt.

Your Commitment To Us

3.1 When you or your Travel Agent make a booking, you as the lead name confirm that you understand and have accepted these booking conditions, including our Important Holiday Information. You confirm that you have the authority to accept, and do accept, these booking conditions on behalf of your booking party. This means that you are responsible for making all payments due, notifying us if any changes or cancellations are required and for receiving the confirmation and keeping your party informed.

3.2 It is your responsibility to ensure you are adequately insured. We strongly recommend that you take out travel insurance which should include, but should not be limited to, cover against the cost of cancellation and assistance (including repatriation) in the event of accident or illness. It is important that you have insurance cover and that it is adequate and suitable for your particular needs. If you fail to take out insurance and have to cancel your booking, you will be charged in accordance with our normal terms and conditions – see 3.4 – Cancelling Your Holiday. Furthermore, if you require medical/any other form of assistance whilst on holiday you will not be covered and you in turn may incur significant costs. Please read your policy details carefully and take them with you on holiday

3.3 If You Want To Change Or Cancel Your Holiday

If you want to change any part of your holiday arrangements after the invoice has been issued, we will do our best to assist but it may not be possible. Any request for changes must be made in writing by the person who made the original booking (lead name) or their travel agent. If it is possible to make the change, it will be subject to an administration charge of £50 per booking and payment of any further costs incurred by us as a result of the change. You should be aware that any such costs are likely to increase, the closer to the departure date the changes are made. If you change the number in your party, the accommodation price may be re-calculated. If the party size is reduced, this could mean the remaining members paying more due to under-occupancy. If we agree that you may change your booking to a holiday of lower value and then you cancel that holiday, we reserve the right to levy cancellation charges on the value of the original booking. it will not be possible to make changes within 30 days of your scheduled departure date.

3.4 Cancelling Your Holiday

If you or anyone on your holiday booking decides to cancel the holiday, the lead name or their travel agent must notify us of the decision in writing as soon as possible. Any notification by telephone must also be confirmed in writing. Cancellation will take effect from the day written confirmation is received by us.

A cancellation invoice will be sent within 7 days. If you do not receive this, please contact us immediately in order to prevent an increase in charges. You may also check your booking has been cancelled on our website: www.kuoni.co.uk. Since we incur costs in cancelling your travel arrangements, the following scale of charges will be payable. Insurance premiums and amendment charges are not refundable in the event of cancellation. References to the deposit include all sums paid or payable at the time of booking. 

NB: In some instances, hotels may charge a higher cancellation fee and you may therefore be charged a higher amount than detailed above.

It is important to enquire for full details of cancellation terms at the time of booking and cancellation. We would strongly recommend that you take out appropriate travel insurance which includes cover against loss of deposit and cancellation fees.

If We Change Or Cancel Your Holiday

4.1 Website/Brochure Accuracy

We rigorously check the information about accommodation, resorts, itineraries etc., to ensure it is correct to the best of our knowledge before being published. Product descriptions and facilities may change before and after you book and it is worth noting that our brochures are prepared well in advance. Please check the up to date position at the time of booking. Please bear in mind that hoteliers, restaurateurs, night club owners etc., may wish to maintain or improve their facilities, or even take a break themselves. Flight times, carriers and routes are given for guidance only as there may be changes. Local tour, excursion, cruise or safari itineraries may change as a result of local conditions. Circumstances such as these, or weather conditions, time of year or other situations beyond our control etc., may cause some of the amenities we have described to be unavailable or different from those advertised. When we are told of any major or long term changes we will always endeavour to advise you prior to your departure.

4.2 Building & Development Work

Many hotels and resorts are continuing to develop, sometimes rapidly and intensively and often with little or no advance warning. Whilst we have no control over such work, as a responsible tour operator, it is important to us that you are aware of any major building/refurbishment work that may be going on during your stay. General refurbishment at hotels is necessary to maintain standards but if we are informed of such work where this can reasonably be expected to have an effect on your holiday, we will endeavour to notify you of it as soon as possible, however near to your departure this may be.

4.3 Pre-Departure Changes

We hope and expect to be able to provide you with the services we have confirmed to you at the time of booking. We plan arrangements a long time in advance of your holiday using independent suppliers over whom we have no direct control. In exceptional cases it is possible that we may be advised that the reserved accommodation has been overbooked or your accommodation may have to be changed for other reasons. On these rare occasions, changes do have to be made and we reserve the right to make these at any time. Most of these changes are minor, in which case we will notify you or your travel agent of the change accordingly. Occasionally, however, changes are major.

4.4 Minor Changes

If a minor change is made to your booking, the options set out in 4.5 will not apply. Examples of minor changes include, but are not limited to, change of accommodation to another of the same or higher standard, temporary withdrawal of facilities or seasonal unavailability of amenities.

4.5 Major Changes

If a major change is made to your booking we will inform you or your travel agent as soon as reasonably possible, if there is time before your departure.

If a major change is made, we will offer you the choice of the following options:-

(a) accepting the changed arrangements (with any refunds that may be due to you for changes to a lower category of service); or

(b) selecting an alternative service from us, of a similar standard to that originally booked if available. If this holiday is cheaper than the original, we will refund the price difference. You will be liable to us for any additional costs payable for the new arrangements; or

(c) cancelling the booking or accepting our cancellation of the booking, in which case you will receive a full refund of all monies you have paid to us.

4.6 If We Cancel Your Holiday Before Your Departure

We will do our best to avoid cancelling holidays but we must reserve the right to do so. In some instances we will pay compensation (see 4.7). We will only cancel your confirmed booking after you have made full payment where we are constrained to do so as a result of ‘force majeure’. If your holiday is cancelled you can either have a refund of all monies paid or accept an offer of alternative accommodation of comparable standard from us, if available (we will refund any price difference if the alternative is of a lower value). Any amendment or cancellation fees you incur in terms of other arrangements you have made with other providers under separate contracts are not recoverable from us.

4.7 Compensation

If we have to make a major change or cancel we will, where appropriate, pay you compensation as set out in the table below. Compensation entitlements will vary depending on the circumstances and when the major change or cancellation is notified to you. Compensation will not be payable and no liability beyond offering the above mentioned choices (see 4.6) can be accepted where we are forced to make a change or cancel as a result of ‘force majeure’. Further, no compensation will be payable and the above options will not be available if we cancel as a result of your failure to comply with any requirement of these booking conditions entitling us to cancel (such as paying on time) or where a change is a minor one. 

4.8 Changes Due To Circumstances Beyond Our Control (‘Force Majeure’)

Except where otherwise expressly stated in these booking conditions, we regret we cannot accept liability or pay any compensation where the performance or prompt performance of our obligations under our contract with you is prevented or affected by or you otherwise suffer any damage, loss or expense of any nature as a result of unusual or unforeseeable circumstances beyond our control ("force majeure") . These can include for example, whether actual or threatened, amendment or cancellation in the event of war, riot, industrial dispute, terrorist activity and its consequences, natural or nuclear disaster, adverse weather conditions, epidemics or pandemics or other outbreaks of illness, fire and other situations which are outside of our control. No compensation, costs, expenses or any other sums, including the cost of securing alternative accommodation will be paid by us.

Our Responsibility For Your Booking

5.1 Reasonable Care and Skill

We have a duty to select the accommodation providers with reasonable skill and care. We have no liability to you for the actual provision of the accommodation, except in cases where it is proved that we have breached that duty and damage to you has been caused. Therefore, providing we have selected the provider with reasonable care and skill, we will have no liability to you for anything that happens at the accommodation or any acts or omissions of the provider or others.

We also have no liability in the following situations:

a) where the accommodation cannot be provided as booked due to circumstances beyond our control (‘force majeure’);

b) where you incur any loss or damage that could not have been foreseen at the time of your booking, based on the information provided by you;

c) where you incur any loss or damage that relates to any business activity;

d) where any loss or damage relates to any services which do not form part of our contract with you.

If we are found liable to you on any basis, we limit the amount we have to pay you to a maximum of three times the cost of your accommodation. This limit does not apply to cases involving death or injury.

5.2 Services Outside Of The Contract

Please note, we cannot accept responsibility for any services which do not form part of our contract. This includes, for example, any additional services or facilities which your hotel or any other supplier agrees to provide to you in resort. In addition, regardless of any wording used by us on our website, in any advertising material or elsewhere, we only promise to use reasonable care and skill as set out above and we do not have any greater or different liability to you.

5.3 Local Standards

The promises we make to you about the service we have agreed to provide or arrange as part of our contract – and the laws and regulations of the country in which your claim or complaint occurred – will be used as the basis for deciding whether the service in question had been properly provided. If the particular services which gave rise to the claim or complaint complied with local laws and regulations applicable to those services at the time, the services will be treated as having been properly provided. This will be the case even if the services did not comply with the laws and regulations of the UK which would have applied had those services been provided in the UK. Please note, however, our obligation is to exercise reasonable care and skill. We do not make any representation or commitment that your accommodation will comply with applicable local laws and regulations and failure to comply does not automatically mean we have not exercised reasonable skill and care.

5.4 Supplier Terms

Our suppliers have their own booking conditions and these conditions are binding between you and the supplier. Some of these conditions may limit or remove their liability to you. You can get copies of such conditions from our offices, or the offices of the relevant supplier.

5.5 Transfer of Rights

If we make any payment to you or any member of your party for death, personal injury or illness, you must agree to transfer to us or our insurers any rights you may have to take direct action against the person or organisation responsible for causing the death, personal injury or illness and you must co-operate fully with us in seeking recovery of any payment that we make.

5.6 Local Purchases

Whilst you are away on holiday you may be offered the opportunity to buy optional excursions and activities. These are provided by independent local companies, which are neither owned nor controlled by Kuoni, and for whom Kuoni acts only as an agent (if we make a booking for you). If you decide to buy an excursion or activity, your contract will be made with the local company which provides it and it will not form part of your contracted holiday arrangements with us. The contract will be subject to the excursion/activity provider’s terms and conditions, some of which may exclude or limit its liability to you, and will be governed by local law and jurisdiction. Kuoni accepts no liability for any breach of contract or act or omission of any excursion/activity provider. Some excursions/activities may contain an element of risk or require a good level of physical fitness, and, if in doubt, you should make direct enquiries with the local provider, before deciding to buy and check that you are covered by your travel insurance policy.

5.7 Financial Protection

Holidays which do not constitute a Package holiday or Linked Travel Arrangement as defined within The Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018 are not protected in the event that we become insolvent. Where you have not booked a Package holiday or Linked Travel Arrangement, you should ensure that you secure adequate insurance to protect yourself against any outlays.

5.8 ’From Prices’

Kuoni offers you the flexibility to create your own holiday from the range of accommodation and services available. Because of the wide choice, it is not possible to list every price on every date. A ‘from’ price is indicative of the lowest price available for the hotel or itinerary featured but this may vary depending on a number of factors such as your date of travel and choice of accommodation. To help you in choosing a holiday which is tailor made by us to your requirements, please call our Sales team, or visit your travel agent or our website for further information about services and prices. We will be happy to provide you with an up to date quote.

5.9 Pricing Errors

Whilst we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of the pricing information provided, regrettably errors may occasionally occur. When we become aware of any such error, we will endeavour to notify you at the time of booking (if we are then aware of the mistake), within 7 days of the time of booking or as soon as reasonably possible. If a booking is already in place, you will have the choice to continue with the chosen itinerary at the corrected price or amend to a different holiday. We reserve the right to cancel the booking if you do not wish to accept the price that applies to your holiday or any quoted alternatives.

5.10 Flight Delays / Cancellations

If you experience difficulties with your independent travel arrangements, such as long flight delays or cancellations, no refunds will be given for lost holiday time or unused accommodation, as rooms are held for delayed arrivals, not re-let.

5.11 If We Curtail Your Holiday After Departure

Very rarely, we may be forced by "force majeure" circumstances outside of our control (see 4.7) to change or terminate your holiday after departure but before the scheduled end of your time away. This is extremely unlikely but if this situation does occur, we regret we will be unable to make any refunds (unless we obtain any refunds from our suppliers), pay you any compensation or meet any costs or expenses you incur as a result. Please ensure you have adequate travel insurance in place to cover any such eventuality.

In Resort

6.1 Behaviour

When you book accommodation through us, you accept responsibility for the proper conduct of all members of your party during your stay. We reserve the right at any time to terminate the stay of any party member(s) whose behaviour is such, in the reasonable opinion of the accommodation provider or us, as to cause or to be likely to cause danger, upset or distress to anyone else or damage to property. Full cancellation charges will then apply and no refund will be given. Furthermore, we shall be under no obligation whatsoever to pay compensation or meet any costs or expenses (including but not limited to alternative accommodation) you may occur as a result of your stay being terminated. If you cause damage to the accommodation in which you are staying, you must fully reimburse the accommodation provider concerned for the cost of the damage before the end of your stay if the cost has been established by then or as soon as it has been established if later. You must also indemnify us for the full amount of any claim (including all legal costs) made against us by the accommodation provider or any third party as a result.

6.2 Representative Services

Please note we do not have representative services available in all the destinations we feature and therefore you will not necessarily be met on arrival. Please ensure you refer to your itinerary which will provide the appropriate contact details should you need assistance whilst on holiday.

6.3 Water/Electricity Supplies

In many of the less sophisticated destinations we feature, the water and electricity services struggle to keep up with the increased demands from tourism. Limited rainfall can put further pressure on their provision. Hotels do everything possible to maintain full services. However, occasional power cuts and/or water restrictions may be experienced.

6.4 Accommodation In The Tropics

In many hotels, especially beach resorts ‘insects’ in the rooms (e.g. cockroaches etc.) and the occasional rodent sighting are almost inevitable. It should by no means be taken as a sign of dirtiness, as it is simply a fact of life in these destinations. Views from some hotel rooms may be partly obscured by palm trees and other vegetation that can grow very quickly in tropical climates.

6.5 Watersports & Other Activities

Many hotels offer watersports and other sporting activities, in some cases these may be free of charge. Please note that in the interest of your personal safety, the operators of these activities may require that you demonstrate your competence (for example a swimming test) prior to commencement and reserve the right to refuse participation for any reason if they feel this may compromise your or another guest’s safety. Please note there may be certain age restrictions for children/adults to do certain activities so please ensure you enquire locally.

6.6 Personal Belongings and Lost Items

For security reasons valuables should be kept to a minimum and packed in your hand luggage along with your medicines, camera, film, electrical or battery-operated appliances, as well as basic essentials such as a change of clothing and toiletries. It can be easy to lose items but it is your responsibility to look after your property at all times and you must ensure you are adequately covered by comprehensive insurance. If you lose any personal items whilst on holiday, please obtain a written report from a local representative, or police, to help with any insurance claim upon your return.

6.7 Check-in and Check-out

Check-in is normally available from mid-late afternoon on your scheduled day of arrival. If you check-in after midnight and your accommodation has been reserved for you from the previous day, this counts as the first night of your stay. Check-out is normally on the morning of your scheduled departure. If you would like to request an early check-in or late check-out, this will be subject to availability and at an additional charge.

If You Have A Complaint While You Are On Holiday

7.1 Seeking Assistance

If you have cause for complaint whilst on holiday, you must bring it to the attention of our local representative or agent and the hotel immediately and they will do their best to rectify the situation. If matters remain unresolved, your concerns must be brought to the attention of the Kuoni Duty Officer, without undue delay (see 7.2). It is unreasonable to take no action whilst on holiday, but then to complain upon your return. If you do not raise concerns promptly, this may affect our ability to investigate and take remedial action and it may impact on the way your complaint is dealt with.

7.2 Kuoni Duty Officer

Kuoni offers 24 hour assistance for emergency situations and to help resolve any general issues while you are on holiday. The number provided on your itinerary is a messaging service and our Duty Officer will return your call. Many destinations have local representation and they should be contacted in the first instance, should you have a problem.

On return from your holiday

8.1 Curtailment

If you cut short your holiday and return home early in circumstances where you have no reasonable cause for complaint about the standard of accommodation and services provided or where or liability to you is otherwise limited as per 5.1, we will not offer you any refund for the remainder of your holiday not completed, or assist with any associated costs you may incur. Depending on the circumstances, your travel insurance may offer cover for curtailment and we suggest that any claim is made directly with them.

8.2 Surveys

Your feedback is very important to us. As a valued customer, we may periodically send you email surveys to complete, so we can track your satisfaction throughout the course of your booking journey. We would like to know about your experience with Kuoni before, during and after you travel and whether there are any elements of our service that you feel we could look to improve along the way.

8.3 If You Had A Problem

If a problem remains unresolved during your holiday, you should make a complaint in writing to Kuoni within 28 days of the completion of the holiday. Please direct your correspondence to our Customer Support team at customer@kuoni.co.uk and remember to quote your holiday booking number, along with a daytime telephone number. We will acknowledge your correspondence as soon as possible and aim to reply to you within 28 days, as set out within ABTA’s Code of Conduct.

8.4 Dealing With Complaints

We are a member of ABTA, membership number V258X. We are obliged to maintain a high standard of service to you by ABTA’s Code of Conduct. We certainly hope that we can settle any holiday complaints amicably; however, if you remain unhappy you may wish to refer any unresolved matters relating to this contract to ABTA’s scheme for the resolution of disputes, which is approved by the Chartered Trading Standards Institute. You must have previously filed your complaint with ABTA in order to qualify for their ADR services. (See 8.5 for further advice on Law & Jurisdiction.) For more information on the Code and ABTA’s Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) services please visit www.abta.com.

For online bookings, you can also access the European Commission Online Dispute (ODR) Resolution platform at http://ec.europa.eu/consumers/odr/. This ODR platform is a means of registering your complaint with us; it will not determine how your complaint should be resolved.

Please bear in mind that we are only liable to compensate you in line with these booking conditions - in particular clause 5.1 above makes clear that our obligation is to choose the accommodation provider with reasonable skill and care.

8.5 Law & Jurisdiction

We both agree that English Law (and no other) will apply to your contract and to any dispute, claim or other matter of any description (hereinafter referred to as “claim”) which arises between us (except as set out below). We both also agree that any claim (and whether or not involving any personal injury) must be dealt with under the ABTA arbitration scheme (if the scheme is available for the claim in question and you wish to use it – see 8.4) or by the Courts of England and Wales only unless, in the case of Court proceedings, you live in Scotland or Northern Ireland. In this case, proceedings must either be brought in the Courts of your home country or those of England and Wales. If proceedings are brought in Scotland or Northern Ireland, you may choose to have your contract and claim governed by the law of Scotland/Northern Ireland as applicable (but if you do not so choose, English law will apply).

Important Information

9.1 Health & Vaccinations

Health facilities, hygiene and disease risks vary worldwide. You should take health advice about your specific needs as early as possible and ensure that vaccinations or preventative measures such as malaria tablets are taken early enough (which may be a month or more prior to departure) to be fully effective by the date of travel. It is your responsibility to ensure you are aware of all recommended and required vaccination and health precautions in good time before departure. Details are available from your GP surgery and from the National Travel Health Network and Centre www.nathnac.org Sources of information include the Department of Health free leaflet ‘Health advice for travellers’ (available on request Tel. 0207 210 4850), your specialist travel clinic).

9.2 Passports & Visas

Please remember that every traveller (including all children from birth) will need a valid passport to travel. If your passport is endorsed in any way, requirements should be checked with the relevant embassy. For more information visit the www.gov.uk website. Visa information can change at short notice, please check www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice for the latest information. For assistance with any visa enquiry we recommend

9.3 Health, Safety & Security Abroad

We take the safety and security of our customers extremely seriously and reserve the right to cancel your holiday, should this be deemed necessary. However we are sure you appreciate from press and television coverage that the political, economic and social conditions in many of the countries we feature are not as stable as we are used to in Europe. Sadly crimes against both people and their property are a fact of life the world over, and when in a foreign country it is very important to be extra vigilant and avoid drawing attention to yourself by wearing expensive jewellery, carrying expensive camera equipment etc. Travellers have the same responsibility for their personal safety and that of their possessions, as they do at home. We sell holidays to many parts of the world, some of which do not conform to British health and safety standards. We request that all properties we contract with comply with the local regulations applicable in their country for health and safety but we cannot guarantee that these meet British standards and therefore urge that you undertake reasonable precautions to protect your family and yourself whilst on holiday.

To make the most of your trip abroad, check out the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office website at www.fco.gov.uk/travel.
Packed with essential travel advice and tips, this website offers a wealth of country-specific information that only the FCDO can provide.

9.4 Weather & Tidal Conditions

Information is supplied by the Meteorological Office, local tourist offices and other sources and is given as a guide only. Our Sales team is happy to advise on weather trends as many of the destinations featured in this brochure have a tropical climate where heavy rainfall and strong winds (sometimes hurricane force) do occur at certain times of the year, however world weather patterns are now becoming more and more erratic resulting in unusual rainfall, storms and even floods. During monsoon season, you are likely to get more rain than sunshine. Most people go on holiday to spend time in the sunshine and although adverse weather conditions can be very frustrating Kuoni cannot assume any responsibility for the statistical information provided opposite, nor accept liability to make refunds or pay compensation for alternative arrangements, damage to property or curtailed holidays as a result of such conditions.

Some destinations featured in this brochure are subject to tides at specific times of the year which can affect swimming. Depending on the island you have chosen, there may be restrictions on areas where it is safe to swim due to strong currents or sea defences which protect the island beaches. We strongly recommend you listen to local advice to ensure your own safety. Please refer to meteorological websites for the latest and most up-to-date information on tides for the destination you intend to travel to.

9.5 Conservation

It is becoming ever more important to conserve the world’s natural resources, its landscapes, flora and fauna. Someone coined the phrase ‘Take only photographs; leave only footprints’ and a number of countries now use this to promote conservation. It would be hard to improve on this statement.

9.6 Maldives / Coastal Conservation

The changes in season, wind direction and tides in The Maldives and other tropical destinations can cause the islands’ shape and beach width to change. It is becoming increasingly necessary for some islands to use sandbags and sand pumping procedures on their beaches, in order to minimize the effects of erosion. Whilst such activity is most prominent in The Maldives, other tropical locations may also be affected.

Data Protection

10.1 Data Protection Policy

In order to process your booking, send you a brochure or respond to an enquiry, we need to collect personal data from you. Depending on what’s required, the personal data we collect may include names and contact details, credit/ debit card or other payment information and special requirements such as those relating to any disability or medical condition which may affect holiday arrangements and any dietary restrictions which may disclose your religious beliefs (“sensitive personal data”). All references in this privacy policy to personal data include sensitive personal data unless otherwise stated. The person who makes the booking is responsible for ensuring that other members of your party are aware of our booking conditions and this privacy policy and that they consent to your acting on their behalf in your dealings with us.

We may disclose personal data to companies within the DER Touristik Group for business purposes and to companies who act as data processors on our behalf. In making your booking, you consent to personal data being passed on to the relevant suppliers and other third parties. We take appropriate technical and organisational measures which are intended to prevent unauthorised or unlawful processing of personal data and accidental loss or destruction of, or damage to, personal data.

By making a booking with us, you agree to allow your insurers, their agents and medical staff to disclose relevant information to us in circumstances where we may need to act in your interests or in the interests of everyone in any group with whom you are travelling.

For information on how we collect, process and manage your data in line with the General Data Protection Regulation please refer to www.kuoni.co.uk/about-us/privacy-policy/.

You are generally entitled to ask us what details of yours are being held or processed, for what purpose and to whom they may be or have been disclosed. Please identify any such enquiry as a Subject Access Request and direct your enquiry to a member of our Customer Services team, who will respond to you within one month. In certain circumstances we are entitled to refuse your request. If you believe that any of your personal data which we are processing is incorrect, please contact us immediately so it may be updated.