Terms & Conditions

1. General Terms

These terms and conditions ("Terms") govern your use of Universal Travel and Tours' travel services and constitute a legally binding agreement between you ("Client") and Universal Travel and Tours ("Universal Travel and Tours", "we", "us", or "our"). We are licensed by the Mauritius Tourism Authority (License #5889) and operate as a fully online travel agency.

By making a booking or enquiry with Universal Travel and Tours, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Terms. If you do not agree with any part of these Terms, please do not proceed with your booking.

2. Booking Conditions

2.1 Making a Booking

• All bookings are subject to availability and confirmation from suppliers
• A booking is confirmed only when we issue a written confirmation
• Verbal agreements are not binding until confirmed in writing
• All prices are subject to change until booking is confirmed and paid

2.2 Booking Amendments

• Changes to confirmed bookings may incur supplier penalties and amendment fees
• Name changes are generally not permitted on airline tickets
• Date changes subject to availability and fare difference
• Amendment requests must be made in writing

3. Payment Terms

3.1 Payment Schedule

• Deposit required at time of booking (typically 25-50% of total cost)
• Final balance due 45 days prior to departure
• Full payment required for bookings made within 45 days of departure
• Late payment may result in booking cancellation

3.2 Payment Methods

We accept:

• Bank Transfer (preferred method - no additional fees)
• Juice (quote reference number on your payment)

4. Cancellation Policy

4.1 Client Cancellations

Cancellation charges apply as follows (from date of cancellation):

4.2 Universal Travel and Tours Cancellations

We reserve the right to cancel bookings due to insufficient numbers, force majeure, or supplier cancellations. In such cases, we will offer alternative arrangements or full refund with no additional penalties.

5. Liability & Insurance

5.1 Our Liability

Universal Travel and Tours acts as an agent for transportation, accommodation, and other service providers. Our liability is limited to the arrangement of services and does not extend to the performance of suppliers.

5.2 Travel Insurance

5.3 Force Majeure

Universal Travel and Tours is not liable for circumstances beyond our control including but not limited to: natural disasters, terrorism, pandemics, government actions, or supplier failures.

5.4 Our Guarantees

6. Travel Requirements

6.1 Documentation

• Valid passport required for all international travel
• Visas are the client's responsibility unless specifically arranged
• Health certificates and vaccinations as required
• Travel documents must be valid for at least 6 months

6.2 Health & Safety

Clients are responsible for ensuring they are medically fit to travel and comply with all health requirements for destinations visited.

7. Data Protection

UTours is committed to protecting your personal data in accordance with applicable data protection laws. Personal information is collected, processed, and stored solely for the purpose of providing travel services.

Your data may be shared with suppliers, regulatory bodies, and other parties necessary for travel arrangements. We do not sell or distribute personal information to third parties for marketing purposes.

8. Disputes Resolution

8.1 Complaints Procedure

1. Contact your travel consultant immediately
2. Submit written complaint within 30 days of return
3. We will acknowledge complaints within 48 hours
4. Full investigation and response within 28 days

8.2 Governing Law

These Terms are governed by the laws of Mauritius. Any disputes will be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of Mauritian courts.