At Glimmer Tours, we recognize that unexpected events can sometimes affect travel plans. The guidance below outlines how we generally evaluate unforeseen circumstances and what travelers can expect.
Disclaimer: The information provided reflects our standard operating approach and is intended as general guidance. Decisions may vary based on the specific circumstances of each trip, including timing, location, and supplier commitments.
1. Monitor the Situation
We closely monitor relevant conditions and travel advisories as departure approaches.
As a general guideline, we review conditions more closely in the final 45 days prior to departure, when key planning decisions are typically finalized.
If a Level 3 Travel Advisory issued by the U.S. Department of State is in effect closer to departure and materially affects the regions included in the itinerary, we may consider postponing the trip.
While the 45-day mark serves as a reference point, decisions may be made earlier or later depending on the nature of the situation and supplier terms.
2. Long-term and Short-term Events
Long-term disruptions such as wars, pandemics, or widespread natural disasters may require earlier or more definitive decisions.
Short-term incidents with limited or evolving impact may warrant continued monitoring before a determination is made.
3. Regional Focus in Travel Advisories
Our evaluations focus on the specific regions included in your itinerary rather than applying a blanket interpretation to an entire country.
Conditions affecting one area may not impact other regions relevant to your trip.
If a situation affects a non-essential portion of the itinerary, reasonable adjustments may be made when appropriate.
Below are some Frequently Asked Questions:
What if I prefer not to wait for Glimmer Tours’ postponement decision?
For Reservations without Booked Flights: You have the option to transfer your reservation to a future date by paying a $250 change fee.
For Reservations with Booked Flights: You may choose to cancel your reservation in accordance with our standard cancellation policy.
What happens if my tour gets postponed?
In Case of Accepting the Postponement:
Our team will coordinate with our suppliers to arrange alternative future dates for your tour, allowing you to transfer your reservation.
While we strive to negotiate the best terms, please be aware that any additional fees incurred from our suppliers will be the responsibility of each client.
In Case of Declining the Postponement:
If you choose not to accept the rescheduled tour dates, cancellation fees will apply.
To ensure our clients are not penalized for waiting on a tour postponement decision, the penalties for cancellation will be assessed in accordance to the date of the unforeseen event that led to the postponement and not the date of the postponement decision itself. Click here to view our Cancellation Policy.
While aiming to be fair to our clients, we also uphold necessary commitments with our suppliers. Our cancellation policy plays a crucial role in maintaining the quality of our travel services and securing flexibility from our suppliers for clients who accept to move their reservation.
Can Glimmer Tours postpone my trip even if conditions improve?
Yes, Glimmer Tours may occasionally need to postpone a trip due to factors beyond our control, even if the overall situation shows improvement. Such a decision does not equate to a tour cancellation, as it arises from circumstances not caused by us.
Situations that might lead to postponement include, but are not limited to:
Insufficient group size for the tour, stemming from cancellations related to the unforeseen event.
Excessive flight costs due to limited available routes, a consequence of the unforeseen event.
Difficulties in securing reliable service from hotels, transport providers, or tour guides in the destination due to impacts from the unforeseen event, potentially necessitating a trip postponement.
Instead of a postponement, we may opt to consolidate tour groups with similar departure dates to accommodate our travelers in these situations.
Should I keep making payments if there are unforeseen events affecting my tour?
Yes, we recommend continuing with your scheduled payments during times of unforeseen events. Your payment schedule does not influence how we handle your reservation regarding cancellations or postponements. Adhering to your payment plan ensures that your reservation remains active and in good standing. We manage all bookings in accordance with our established cancellation policy and make decisions about tour postponements based on the specific circumstances of each event.