Special Tours.... Angersbach International Tours, Inc. cordially invites you to join hundreds of teachers and group organizers who have designed their own tours year after year and have directed their own programs. We will gladly get involved as much or as little as you like and provide you with whatever it is you feel you need us to do for you. Yes, traveling on your own with a small group of students will be more expensive because of the fixed cost of motorcoach, driver, and tour director. But you do have some options. If you can direct your own tour, you'll save a bit of money, and a smaller bus does cost a little less. The freedom and flexibility one has in designing one's own tour and perhaps even involving the students in the planning brings a lot of satisfaction.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Airfares The airfares (if
included in the tour package) on which we base the tour price are those in
effect at the time of printing the catalogue or flier and are subject to
possible fuel surcharges. All groups are flown on regularly scheduled flights,
NOT charter flights.
Airlines used include members of the
International Air Transport Association, as well as some non-members. Among
others we utilize Lufthansa, United, Delta, Icelandair, Continental, and U.S.
Airways as our primary carriers. All flights are scheduled flights - NOT
charters. Tickets will be mailed to group organizers two to three weeks prior
to tour departure, provided that full payment has been received. Many airlines
are now switching to electronic (e-tickets), so all you need do is to present
your passport at check-in.
Foreign Currency Rates
Exchange rates fluctuate and may necessitate an adjustment in the tour price.
If necessary, this adjustment will need to be made once we have received and
exchanged your final payment.
Hotels
Hotels utilized include first class hotels, as well as superior tourist class
hotels. All rooms are with private bath. Generally included in the Tour Price:
Roundtrip air transportation, ground transportation, meals as per the
individual tour program, lodging, Tour Director, teacher chaperone on student
tours, sightseeing and entrance fees, and local taxes, as described in the
tour.
Not Included in the Tour Price
Lunches, dinners not specifically mentioned in the detailed itinerary, items of
a purely personal nature, beverages at dinner, passport fees, and
transportation between your hometown and the departure city, as well as tips to
the Driver and the Tour Director. There may be currency adjustments and fuel
surcharges even after final payment is received. Fuel adjustments cannot be
made after we receive your final payment and forward it to the airline for
ticketing.
Documents
All U.S. citizens require a VALID passport for travel to Europe. Non-citizens
must review the tour package, determine what countries they will be entering
and/or passing through, determine what visas will be necessary, and obtain
same. Each participant is responsible for obtaining and carrying the proper
documentation of citizenship. AIT will not be responsible for tour participants
who are denied entry to a country or countries due to lack of, or improper
documents.
Health and Medication If you take any kind of
medication on a daily basis, carry enough with you to last through the trip,
and either carry a note from your doctor verifying that you must take this
medication, or carry the medication in its original container with prescription
number on label.
Deviations
Any person wishing to depart or return on a date different from that of the
group should advise AIT as soon as possible. There is a deviation charge of
$150 per person, since AIT will no longer be able to take advantage of the
group incentives offered by the airlines. Any additional cost to cover airfare
differentials must also be borne by the participant.
Insurance
Flight insurance is available at the airport, and AIT also makes suggestions on
all types of travel and trip cancellation insurance. Pre-existing conditions
may be covered under certain circumstances. Luggage is often covered by your
homeowner's policy; check with your insurance agent prior to departure.
Import Duty
Duty may be imposed on purchases which exceed the $800 duty free allowance.
Those under 21 years of age are not permitted to import any alcoholic
beverages.
Inoculations
None are required for travel in Europe or Mexico for U.S. citizens.
Dress Code
We suggest comfortable clothing. You do not need to go out and buy a new
wardrobe, however. DO keep in mind that you are representing the United States,
and you will not want to make a bad impression on the Europeans, the Mexicans,
or your fellow travellers. AIT's dress policy requires that no shorts be worn
on any of its tours, except at beaches. Clothing with holes is not permitted at
any time.
Safety Precautions
Small accidents requiring medical attention are covered by your own insurance.
In case of hospitalization, we leave a competent bilingual person with anyone
requiring same, and hospital staff abroad all speak English. On all tours, the
participants are given the name, address and telephone number of the hotel(s)
at which they will be staying. This is sent to them with their final documents.
Alcohol
European and Mexican customs permit young adults to consume beer or wine with
meals.
Smoking
No smoking is permitted on our motorcoaches. All international and domestic
flights are smoke-free. Smoke-free hotel rooms in Europe can be requested but
cannot be guaranteed.
Adults
Adults (parents, relatives, etc.) 21 years of age or older participating in a
student program (not as chaperones) will be assessed a surcharge of $75 for
tours up to ten days in length and a $95 surcharge for tours longer than ten
days. This additional cost is due to the fact that published prices (entrance
fees, trains, ferries, etc.) have been based on student rates. AIT reserves the
right to limit the number of adults participating in its Student Tour programs.
The adult fee is not part of the tour cost, it is in addition to the tour cost.
Money -- Where to Exchange
Exchange at least $50 into the foreign currency at your local bank or at the
airport to get you started. Once abroad, your tour escort will help you with
the exchange. Get a VISA or MasterCard with sufficient funds in the account so
you can access an ATM machine. Don't forget that you'll need a PIN number in
order to draw from an ATM machine.
Money -- How Much to Bring
The amount of money to take depends on your buying habits and the number of
meals you will have to pay for. Our tours to Mexico include no meals, and we
feel that $25 - $35 per day is adequate for all three meals plus snacks and
drinks.
In Europe, Continental or American Buffet Breakfast is included, and tours
usually include several or all dinners. $12 - $18 for lunch and $25 or more for
dinner is a good estimate. Money for souvenirs could range from a few dollars
to several hundred, depending on individual tastes and budgets.
Packing and Luggage
Due to limited motorcoach capacity for luggage, you may bring only ONE
suitcase. We suggest a suitcase no larger than 26" X 16" X 8",
along with a flight bag. For electrical appliances, you will need an adapter
and converter in Europe, but none in Mexico. Ski participants can bring with
them ONE suitcase and ONE set of ski equipment (skis, boots, poles). This is
strictly enforced by airline personnel. There is talk at the time of this
writing about charging for luggage as well as ski equipment.
Cameras and Film
Film is somewhat outdated. Most people have digital cameras and space on your
memory stick or CD can be adjusted to your needs.
Reservations
All tours are filled on a first- come, first- served basis. Space can be
tentatively reserved by telephone and will be guaranteed upon receipt of a $300
deposit per person and a signed tour contract. Checks should be made payable
to: AIT, Inc. Please do NOT staple or attach checks in any way. Checks should
be mailed to AIT only by the teacher chaperone, not by individuals. We cannot
accept post-dated checks.
Attention:
Teacher Chaperone and/or Group Organizer:
Along with the $300 deposit we need the full
name as it appears on the tour participant's passport, AND AIT must receive two
(2) signed forms appearing further down on this page.
1.
Agreement (to be signed by
participants and parent or
guardian)
2. Student Rules of Behavior (to be signed by participants and parent or guardian)
Payment Schedule
A deposit of $300 per person is required to guarantee a reservation. Final
payment is due in this office no later than 65 days prior to departure. For
late bookings made less than 60 days prior, AIT requires payment in full via
bank check, certified check, or money order. Bookings are usually not possible
25 days or less prior to departure. Any participant not adhering to the payment
deadline will be assessed a $50 late payment charge. If all payments are not
received 45 days prior to departure, it will be understood by Angersbach International
Tours, Incorporated, that the participant is cancelling from the program, and
as such will incur the penalties stipulated under our "Cancellations and
Refunds" policy. Checks returned to AIT for Insufficient Funds or other
reasons are subject to a $40 administrative fee.
Cancellations and Refunds
Full refund, less an administrative charge of $150 per person, will be given on
the land portion for cancellations received, in writing, 61 days or more prior
to tour departure. After that date there is a cancellation fee of $500 plus any
unrecoverable monies already spent on your behalf. For cancellations received,
in writing, less than 7 days prior there may be no refund whatsoever. The
cancellation fee on the air portion is governed by the airlines. Cancellation
insurance is strongly suggested.
Tour Rates and Conditions
Airfares and tour prices are based on direct negotiations with the air
carriers, ground transportation rates, hotel rates, government regulations and
monetary rates of exchange in effect at the time of printing. AIT reserves the
right to adjust tour prices in the event of changes in airline tariffs, fuel
surcharges which may come into effect after the tour has been priced, or
changes in foreign currency rates over which AIT has no control. A notice of
increase may occur even after a full payment has been made. AIT may not
increase tour prices once final payment has been received and exchanged, and
tickets have been issued. Right is reserved to make minor alterations in the
published itinerary, change hotels (to hotels of equal quality), to substitute
aircraft equipment or modes of transportation when compelled by circumstances
beyond the control of AIT. AIT reserves the right to cancel a program for lack
of participation. A price adjustment may need to be made if the total number of
paying participants falls below the number on which the tour price was based.
This price adjustment is in addition to any other price adjustment due to
increases in air and land rates. If AIT cancels a program, AIT's sole
obligation will be to offer the participants a full refund. AIT is not
responsible for flight delays, long layovers or any expenses related to such
delays. Participants must assume responsibility in the event that overnight
lodging and meals in the U.S. prior to departure or upon return of
international flights are necessary due to conflicting airline schedules or
delays.
Responsibility
Any IATA carrier may be used in conjunction with the tour programs described in
this catalogue. The airlines concerned are not to be held responsible for any
act, omission or event during the time passengers are not aboard their plane or
conveyance. The passage contract in use by the airline concerned, when issued,
shall constitute the sole contract between the airlines and the purchasers of
the tours and/or the passengers. AIT cannot be responsible for events beyond
its control, such as weather, strikes, or government restrictions; nor, in the
absence of its own negligence, for personal injury or property damages caused
by persons not controlled by AIT, such as (without limitation) airlines, bus
companies, hotels and schools. No responsibility is incurred by AIT for loss of
passport, airline tickets or other travel documents or damage to baggage or any
of the passengers' belongings. The schedule of events described in the
itineraries may be modified by the tour director, as well as the actual
routings from city to city, without prior notice. Your agreement with AIT
cannot be modified or interpreted except in writing by AIT's Manasquan office.
AGREEMENT: To be signed by both parent and
student
I, ___________________________________, an applicant for one of the programs
sponsored by Angersbach International Tours, Incorporated, (hereafter called
AIT), agree to the following understandings binding upon myself and my parents
or guardians if I am under 18 years of age. I waive any and all claims against
AIT and its agents or contractors, domestic and overseas, my local school, and
any staff member or teacher chaperone who will be accompanying the group, their
heirs or their estate, arising from any death, injury, loss, damage, accident,
delay, irregularity or expense to person or property incurred from the use of
any vehicle or services, strikes, war, weather, sickness, quarantine,
government restrictions or regulations, or arising from any act or omission of
any steamship, railroad, airline, bus company, sightseeing, hotel or any other
service or transporting company, firm, individual, or agency. I also release
AIT and its agents or contractors from any financial obligations or liabilities
that I may incur as an individual, or any damage or injury to the person or
property of others that I may cause while participating in this program, and
agree to indemnify them against any such financial obligations or liabilities.
Nothing in this form or release shall be interpreted as releasing AIT from
liability arising from its negligence, or that of its employees. I understand
that the air carriers' liability for loss or damage to baggage, or for death or
injury to person or property, is limited by their tariffs and/or by the Warsaw
Convention. AIT is not responsible for loss of, theft of or damage to my
belongings including passport.
I also grant to AIT, or to any of its officers, staff or agents, the full
authority to take whatever action they feel is warranted under the
circumstances in regard to my health and safety. AIT or any of its officers,
staff, or agents may at their discretion place me at my own or my parents'
expense in a hospital at any point for medical services and treatment, or, if
no hospitals are available, place me in the hands of a local medical doctor for
treatment. Further, at my own expense, (or the expense of my parents),
for medical treatment if they deem this measure necessary. I further release
any of these persons from any liability for such decisions or actions which my
be taken on my behalf.
I understand that AIT is not responsible for my well-being during such
periods of time that I may be absent from AIT supervised activities, as during
times of independent travel, visits to friends and relatives and so forth.
I understand that this is a supervised program, and that appropriate
standards must be observed. I agree to maintain any such group standards
as AIT may set forth, and further, to indemnify AIT and its agents or
contractors against any consequences which may ensue as a result of my refusal
to comply with such regulations. I certify that I have read the AIT
"Student Rules of Behavior" and I pledge to abide by them. I
agree that AIT has the right to enforce these rules, standards, and
instructions, and that my participation in the AIT program may at any time be
terminated by AIT in the light of my failure to follow these regulations, or
for any other reason which the officers of AIT may deem to be in the best
interest of a student group concerned in such a case. I agree to being sent
home at my own (or my parents) expense with no refund from AIT.
I understand that AIT reserves the right to make cancellations for
insufficient participation. In this case AIT's sole obligation will be to make
a full refund of all monies received. I understand that if I wish to cancel my
reservation in an AIT program, I must do so in writing. The refund I will be
entitled to will be as explained under "Important Information".
Furthermore, I realize that tour costs quoted by AIT are based on applicable
tariffs, rates, currency exchange at time of printing, or estimated exchange
rates, government regulations, and for this reason are subject to changes
depending on those tariffs, rates, and regulations. AIT reserves the right to
pass along certain price increases as may come about due to changes in tariffs,
rates and regulations. I agree to pay such increases in tour cost and shall not
be entitiled to cancel the tour and receive a refund solely on this ground. Any
potential increases will be limited to the terms as stipulated under
"Important Information". Reversal of the itinerary may sometimes be necessary.
I certify that I have received and read the "Important
Information" and that I agree to all terms and conditions stated therein.
I further agree that this agreement will only be effective upon my acceptance
by AIT as a participant in this program. Acceptance has been granted when
my deposit check has cleared with the AIT bank.
I further agree that I will reimburse A.I.T. for costs, including reasonable
attorneys' fees, associated with the defense of any action brought by me in any
court against A.I.T. where I am unsuccessful in obtaining judgement against
A.I.T. Should any provision of this contract be found invalid, the
remaining provisions as set forth shall survive and be enforceable.
I agree that AIT has the right to select a qualified replacement for any
hometown teacher chaperone who may presently be planning to accompany me
overseas, in the event that he or she be unable or unwilling to continue these
plans.
If I am an adult traveling on a student program, I understand that most of
my traveling companions will be teenagers, and that I will not receive any
preferential treatment. I am aware of, and agree to pay the adult supplement
designated by AIT.
If I am not a citizen of the United States, I accept the responsibility of
obtaining all the necessary documents which will be needed to participate in
the tour program, as outlined in the "Important Information" under
"Passports and Visas". Failure on my part, or the inability to obtain
the proper documentation does not constitute grounds for withdrawal with a full
refund.
I understand that this agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State
of New Jersey, which shall have sole jurisdiction. If applicant is under 18
years of age, the following statement shall be completed:
I certify that the applicant is in good physical and mental health and that
he or she has no special medical or physical conditions which would impede
participation in the program.
I certify that I am the parent or legal guardian of the applicant, that I have
read and that I understand the above Agreement, and that I accept and will be
bound by its terms and conditions on my own behalf and on behalf of the
applicant.
SIGNATURE OF APPLICANT:_____________________________________________________
DATE:_________________________________________________________________________
SIGNATURE OF PARENT OR GUARDIAN:_________________________________________
_
STUDENT RULES OF BEHAVIOR:
To be signed by both parent and student
As a participant in one of the AIT student tour programs you have chosen one
of the finest educational tours on the market today. In order for us to
continue our fine reputation, we require that you follow certain rules and
regulations. Traveling within a foreign country will expose you to customs and
a culture different from your own. You are here to experience the various
differences, not to criticize or laugh at them. Accept with courtesy; learn
with dilligence; be proud of your country; and your country will be proud of
you.
1. Your teacher chaperone is responsible to supervise you. Follow his
or her instructions implicitly and let him or her know where you are at all
times. If you have plans to visit relatives or friends and plan to be absent
from the group, AIT staff must be informed in advance, and you must have
written permission from parents or guardian.
2. The curfew (bedtime) for all AIT groups is midnight, unless you are under
the direct supervision of a chaperone or tour director.
3. Silence is golden after 10 PM in hotel corridors and rooms. Running, shouting,
slamming doors, etc., will not be tolerated at any time.
4. Punctuality for the sake of your fellow travelers is an absolute must.
5. Alcohol consumption is allowed by AIT only at meal times in the form
of beer or wine, and strictly prohibited at any other time. Your parents and
chaperones have the right to place further restrictions on our rules, but they
cannot waive these rules. Intoxication is grounds for immediate termination of
participation in the AIT program.
6. When you have free time for shopping, stay in groups of 3 or more.
When you go out at night, you must be accompanied by an adult.
7. Be warned that foreign countries have much stricter drug laws than the
U.S. You are subject to the laws of the country in which you
travel. Many countries impose an immediate jail sentence for use of
drugs. Your U.S. Consulate or Embassy cannot change foreign laws; they will not
be able to help you. Intoxication is grounds for immediate termination of
participation in the AIT program.
8. Your travel documents are your responsibility along with your personal
belongings. Neither your chaperone nor AIT can be held responsible for luggage
left behind, and you are subject to all expenses incurred, if you lose your
travelers checks, need a document replaced, or need your belongings forwarded.
9. In consideration of others we cannot permit radios on the tour, unless
you have earphones. Also, smoking is strictly prohibited on the bus.
10. Inspect your hotel rooms upon check-in and inform front desk, chaperone and
tour director of any damage BEFORE occupying the room. Any damage upon
check-out is YOUR responsibility. Anything missing from the room becomes your
responsibility, and AIT staff and chaperones have the right to inspect your
luggage. Keep receipts for anything you purchase.
11. AIT has the right to enforce appropriate standards of conduct and may at
any time terminate your participation in the AIT program for failure to
maintain these standards, or for any actions or conduct which AIT considers to
be incompatible with the interest, harmony, comfort and welfare of other
students. If your participation is terminated, you consent to being sent home
at your own expense (or your parents' expense) without any refund whatsoever.
I have read and understand the above.
SIGNATURE OF APPLICANT:
______________________________________
DATE:________________________________
SIGNATURE OF PARENT OR GUARDIAN:
____________________________________________
PLEASE PRINT BELOW APPLICANT's NAME EXACTLY AS IT APPEARS IN PASSPORT:
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
PLEASE NOTE: Adult travelers who are NOT teacher chaperones MUST return a
fully-executed copy of this form with their deposit check(s).
Return to All Our Tours page
Return to Home Page