Terms of Service

1. Agreement to Terms

By accessing and using the services of Lakshmi Trails LLC ("Company," "we," "our," or "us"), you agree to be bound by these Terms of Service ("Terms"). If you do not agree to these Terms, please do not use our services.

2. Description of Services

Lakshmi Trails provides boutique cultural and wellness travel experiences, primarily to Kerala and Karnataka regions of India. Our services include:

• Curated travel itineraries and cultural immersion experiences
• Accommodation and transportation arrangements
• Local guide services and cultural activities
• Wellness and spiritual journey programs
• Travel consultation and planning services

3. Booking and Payment Terms

3.1 Reservations

• All bookings must be made through authorized channels (website, email, or phone)
• Bookings are confirmed upon receipt of required deposit and signed agreement
• We reserve the right to refuse service to anyone at our discretion

3.2 Deposits and Payment

• Deposit Required: 35% of total tour cost due at booking
• Final Payment: Due 45 days before departure date
• Payment Methods: Credit cards, bank transfers, and other approved methods
• Currency: All prices quoted and payments processed in USD
• Processing Fees: A $75 processing fee applies to all cancelled bookings

3.3 Pricing

• All prices are subject to change until booking is confirmed with deposit
• Prices may vary based on seasonality, availability, and group size
• Additional costs (flights, visas, meals not specified) are traveler's responsibility

4. Cancellation and Refund Policy

4.1 Customer Cancellations

4.2 Company Cancellations

• Insufficient Enrollment: If minimum group size is not met, we will provide full refund
• Force Majeure: For cancellations due to natural disasters, political instability, or other unforeseeable circumstances, we will offer credit or alternative dates
• Safety Concerns: We reserve the right to cancel or modify trips for safety reasons with full refund or alternative arrangements

4.3 Refund Processing

• Refunds processed within 15 business days of cancellation
• Refunds issued to original payment method
• Third-party fees (flights, visas, etc.) are non-refundable

5. Travel Requirements and Eligibility

5.1 Age and Health Requirements

• Age Restrictions: Participants must be between 18-75 years of age
• Health & Fitness: Tours require moderate to good physical fitness; participants must be able to walk 3-5 miles daily over varied terrain
• Health Disclosure: Travelers must disclose any medical conditions that may affect participation
• Medical Clearance: We may require medical clearance for participants over 65 or with disclosed health conditions

5.2 Travel Documentation

• Passport: Valid passport required with at least 6 months remaining validity
• Visa: Indian visa required for most travelers (traveler's responsibility)
• Vaccinations: Current vaccinations as recommended by CDC for India travel

5.3 Travel Insurance

• Required: Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for all participants
• Coverage: Must include medical coverage, emergency evacuation, and trip cancellation
• Assistance: We can assist with purchasing appropriate coverage

6. Traveler Responsibilities

• Conduct: Respectful behavior toward local communities, guides, and fellow travelers
• Cultural Sensitivity: Adherence to local customs, dress codes, and religious practices
• Safety: Following guide instructions and company safety protocols
• Preparation: Arriving adequately prepared with recommended clothing and equipment
• Communication: Providing accurate contact information and notifying us of any changes

7. Company Responsibilities and Limitations

7.1 Our Commitments

• Providing services as described in confirmed itinerary
• Using qualified local guides and reputable service providers
• Maintaining appropriate licenses and insurance coverage
• Providing 24/7 emergency support during travel

7.2 Limitations

• Itinerary Changes: We reserve the right to modify itineraries due to weather, safety, or operational constraints
• Third-Party Services: We are not responsible for services provided by third parties (airlines, hotels, restaurants)
• Personal Items: We are not liable for loss or damage to personal belongings

8. Liability and Risk Acknowledgment

8.1 Assumption of Risk

Travel involves inherent risks including but not limited to:

• Medical emergencies and limited medical facilities
• Political instability or civil unrest
• Natural disasters and weather-related delays
• Transportation accidents and mechanical failures
• Theft, loss of property, or personal injury

By booking with us, you acknowledge and assume these risks.

8.2 Limitation of Liability

To the maximum extent permitted by law, Lakshmi Trails LLC's total liability for any claim shall not exceed the amount paid by the traveler for the specific trip. We shall not be liable for any indirect, incidental, or consequential damages.

8.3 Indemnification

Travelers agree to indemnify and hold harmless Lakshmi Trails LLC from any claims, damages, or expenses arising from their participation in our tours.

9. Force Majeure

We are not liable for any failure to perform our obligations due to circumstances beyond our reasonable control, including but not limited to:

• Natural disasters, pandemics, or health emergencies
• War, terrorism, or political instability
• Government restrictions or travel advisories
• Labor strikes or transportation disruptions
• Acts of God or other unforeseeable events

10. Intellectual Property

• All website content, images, and materials are protected by copyright
• Travelers may not use our content for commercial purposes without permission
• We may use photos/videos from trips for marketing purposes unless travelers opt out

11. Privacy and Data Protection

Your privacy is important to us. Please review our Privacy Policy for information about how we collect, use, and protect your personal information.

12. Dispute Resolution

12.1 Governing Law

These Terms are governed by the laws of the State of Florida, United States, without regard to conflict of law principles.

12.2 Dispute Resolution Process

1. Direct Communication: We encourage direct communication to resolve any issues
2. Mediation: If direct resolution fails, disputes will be resolved through binding mediation
3. Jurisdiction: Any legal proceedings shall be conducted in Florida state courts

12.3 Class Action Waiver

You agree to resolve disputes individually and waive the right to participate in class action lawsuits.

13. Modifications to Terms

We reserve the right to modify these Terms at any time. Changes will be effective immediately upon posting on our website. Continued use of our services constitutes acceptance of modified Terms.

14. Severability

If any provision of these Terms is found to be invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall continue in full force and effect.

15. Contact Information

For questions about these Terms of Service, please contact: