INTRODUCTION
These General Terms and Conditions for booking ferry tickets, travel packages, and gift card purchases (the “General Terms and Conditions”), along with the information provided in the booking confirmation email (“Booking Confirmation”) and order confirmation (“Order Confirmation”), define the terms under which the Company (as defined below) agrees to provide you with the Services through the Website (see definitions below).
These General Terms and Conditions, the Booking Confirmation, the Order Confirmation, and the relevant Rules and Restrictions also define the terms under which Travel Service Providers agree to provide the Services to you.
The Services provided by Travel Service Providers (as defined below) through this Website can only be used by Customers who have first read and unconditionally accepted these General Terms and Conditions by proceeding with the booking process.
Customers undertake to fulfill the obligations included in these General Terms and Conditions. The agreement between Customers and the respective Travel Service Provider comes into effect once the Company or its Affiliate provides written confirmation of a booking to the Customer by sending the Booking Confirmation.
Customers should save and/or print a copy of these General Terms and Conditions for future reference when making a booking.
ARTICLE 1. DEFINITIONS AND SCOPE
1.1. DEFINITIONS
The following definitions have the same meaning whether in singular or plural form under Presidential Decree P.D. 7/2018, in alignment with the legislation following Directive (EU) 2015/2302 on package travel, package holidays, and linked travel arrangements (EU L 326/11.12.2015).
“Affiliate” refers to the Company’s affiliated companies, including those through whose website you have made a booking.
“Company” (or “we/us/our”) is MID EAST International Travel Ltd. and its subsidiaries.
“Customer” (or “you/your”) is the customer who makes a booking for one or more Services offered on the Website.
“Customer Service Representative” is (i) our own or one of the Company’s customer service providers or (ii) customer service providers of Affiliate companies (including any individuals acting on their behalf) or (iii) any individuals acting as customer service providers on behalf of the Company.
“Main Customer” is the Customer who makes a booking or purchase for themselves and/or on behalf of others within the same booking.
The term “Linked Travel Arrangement” has the meaning given to the “linked travel arrangement” definition in the Package Travel Regulations.
“Package Travel Regulations” Under Presidential Decree P.D. 7/2018, in alignment with the legislation following Directive (EU) 2015/2302 on package travel, package holidays, and linked travel arrangements (EU L 326/11.12.2015), as applied in each member state of the European Union and as amended from time to time.
“Rules and Restrictions” are the terms and conditions applicable to the Services provided by third-party Providers (including, but not limited to, the rules and restrictions of accommodation providers).
“Service” is the service provided on the Website, and related payment processing services.
“Travel Service Provider” is the provider that makes the Services available.
“Third-Party Provider” is a contractor who, a) provides the Services directly to the Customer or b) performs the Services in cases where the Service is provided by MID EAST International Travel Ltd. or Liknoss to the Customer.
“Company” is MID EAST International Travel Ltd., headquartered at 105-107 Vassilissis Sofias Avenue, Athens, P.C. 115 21.
“Website” is the present website where you make the booking for the Services.
1.2. SCOPE AND YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH THE COMPANY
These General Terms and Conditions apply to the offer and provision of the Services through this Website and include any applicable Rules and Restrictions that are communicated to the Customer before completing any booking and which the Customer also accepts at the time of making the booking. It is the Customer’s responsibility to familiarize themselves with these General Terms and Conditions and the applicable Rules and Restrictions. Specific accommodation Rules and Restrictions of third-party Providers are provided before making a booking.
The General Terms and Conditions may change by the Company, and the Rules and Restrictions may change by the Travel Service Provider at any time without prior notice, although such changes will not apply to bookings that have already been accepted by the Company on behalf of the respective Travel Service Providers. Therefore, it is necessary to read, save, and/or print a copy of the General Terms and Conditions by the Customer at the time of making the booking, to be informed of the applicable provisions.
ARTICLE 2. FERRY SERVICES
The Company manages the Website, which operates as an interface between the Customer and the Travel Service Provider concerning the offer and availability of all Services.
The purpose of this is to provide details regarding the terms and conditions of using the Services offered by the Travel Service Provider for the Customer’s information. These details are not exhaustive and do not replace the applicable Rules and Restrictions. In case of any dispute or inconsistency between the General Terms and Conditions and the Rules and Restrictions incorporated into these General Terms and Conditions, the Rules and Restrictions will prevail. The Rules and Restrictions are communicated before making a booking.
Subject to any contrary regulatory requirements, these specific details do not establish any liability or obligation of the Company.
Any prepaid ferry ticket bookings through the “pay now” option require charging the Main Customer’s credit card with the full payment amount at the time of booking. For other ferry bookings, we will contact you to secure the booking, and the final payment is arranged via remittance. Refer to the details displayed during the booking process to confirm how and when the payment will be made.
If a Customer does not show up at the departure port and intends to travel on another route, the Main Customer must confirm the booking changes with the Company before departure and according to the itinerary change policy of the respective ferry company to avoid the cancellation of the entire booking. If the Main Customer does not confirm the booking changes with the Company, the entire booking may be canceled according to the applicable Rules and Restrictions as communicated during the booking process.
If a Customer does not cancel or change their booking before the cancellation policy period of the respective ferry company before the departure date, they will be charged the fees specified in the Rules and Restrictions of the booking. Customers should note that some ferry companies do not allow changes or cancellations to bookings after they have been issued, and these specific restrictions are displayed in the Rules and Restrictions for ticket booking in each ferry company.
You cannot book online for more than 9 passengers on the same route. If we find that you have made bookings for more than 9 passengers in total, in separate bookings, we may cancel the bookings and charge you a cancellation fee, as applicable. If you paid a non-refundable rate, you might lose the amount of your payment. If you wish to make a booking for 9 or more passengers, you must contact mideastleisure1@mideast.gr or by phone at 211 211 8888. You may be asked to sign a written contract and/or pay a non-refundable rate.
2.1. CLASSIFICATION
The comfort level indication given to fare seats on the Website corresponds to a classification based on local criteria for the specific country, which may differ from the criteria of your country. This classification is provided for indicative purposes only. Customers should note that the criteria may vary between ships of the same category in different countries, even within the same country. It is important to carefully read the individual descriptions of ferry companies for the ships. All ships, regardless of rating, have standard seats, cabins, and lounges unless otherwise stated.
Occasionally, for various reasons (for example, when a route is overbooked due to connectivity issues with the ferry company or a route is postponed or canceled due to weather conditions), a booking may be canceled or modified by the third-party ferry Provider or by the Company. If this happens, the Company will make every reasonable effort to notify the Customer as soon as possible and, where possible, offer an alternative route of at least the same category. If this offer is not accepted by the Customer, the Company will ensure the refund of the amount paid for the booking, always in accordance with the ferry company’s rules for such matters.
2.2. PRICES
The price of the Services is as listed on the Website from time to time, except in cases of obvious error. Prices are subject to change at any time; however, these changes do not affect bookings that have already been accepted. The Company may, in some cases, impose a booking fee concerning certain transactions made on behalf of the Customer. The Customer will be notified of all applicable charges at the time of booking. Despite the Company’s best efforts, some of the Services listed on the Website may be incorrectly priced. THE COMPANY EXPRESSLY RESERVES THE RIGHT TO CORRECT ANY PRICING ERRORS ON THE WEBSITE AND/OR ON BOOKINGS MADE AT AN INCORRECT PRICE. IN SUCH CASES, IF POSSIBLE, WE WILL OFFER YOU THE OPPORTUNITY TO MAINTAIN THE BOOKING AT THE CORRECT PRICE OR CANCEL YOUR BOOKING WITHOUT PENALTY. The Company has no obligation to provide Services to Customers at an incorrect (lower) price, even if confirmation has been sent to the Customers.
ARTICLE 3. FINANCIAL TERMS AND PAYMENT PROCEDURES FOR FERRY TICKETS
3.1 LOCAL TAXES AND PAYMENTS
Unless otherwise specified in the Rules and Restrictions, the prices of the Services displayed on the Website are expressed in the selected currency, excluding local taxes imposed by authorities in certain countries.
The making of any prepaid ferry ticket bookings with the “pay now” option for destinations within the European Union is governed by the regulations for travel agencies and tour operators.
3.2 TAX RECOVERY FEE
Except as provided below regarding the tax obligations for the amounts we withhold for our services, we do not collect taxes to be paid to the competent tax authorities. The tax recovery fees on prepaid ferry ticket bookings with the “pay now” option constitute a recovery of the estimated transaction taxes (e.g., sales and use, indirect tax, value-added tax, etc.) that the Company pays to the ferry company or third-party providers for taxes imposed on the transactions for which the Company directly provides the Service to the Customer. The ferry company, or the third-party provider, invoices the Company for the tax amounts. The ferry companies are responsible for paying the applicable taxes to the competent tax authorities. The Company does not act as a co-supplier with the respective ferry company where our customers make a booking or arrange to travel.
In addition to the above, the Company has the right to impose a management fee, which usually amounts to €2 per booking. The actual amounts of the service fees may vary depending on the applicable rates at the time of booking, the ferry company, the fare, or the seat.
ARTICLE 4. DIRECT PURCHASE SERVICES THROUGH THE WEBSITE FOR GIFT CARDS OR TRAVEL PACKAGES
The Company offers the purchase of Gift Cards through the website, which can be redeemed for any of the Company’s services by phone or email.
The following payment methods are offered. When processing the purchase by the Customer.
Payment by Debit/Credit Card. With this Payment Method, the Customer is transferred to a secure bank environment and makes the payment there. The Customer will provide their payment card details, and the bank will often need to verify: a) the validity of the payment card (by charging a nominal amount, which is either refunded within a few days or deducted from the final payment due to the Third-Party Provider) and b) the availability of the balance on the payment card (which is confirmed by the issuing bank of the Customer’s credit card).
ARTICLE 5. GENERAL TERMS OF PARTICIPATION IN TRAVEL PACKAGES
Under Presidential Decree P.D. 7/2018, in alignment with the legislation following Directive (EU) 2015/2302 on package travel and linked travel arrangements (EU L 326/11.12.2015), please read these General Terms of Participation carefully before registering for any of our organized trips, as they constitute an integral part of the organized travel contract. Participation in any organized trip by our travel agency implies the careful study of the specific trip program and the unconditional acceptance by the customer of the General Terms of Participation. According to the definition of P.D. 7/2018, a “package tour” is a prearranged combination of at least two elements of transportation, accommodation, or other tourist services not supplementary to transportation or accommodation representing a significant part of the package, provided that the said provision exceeds 24 hours or includes one overnight stay and is sold or offered for sale at a total price. A package tour is also considered when the provision of the individual services of the same package tour is invoiced separately but within the same time frame and by the same provider. The individual sale of a transport ticket or accommodation or other tourist service is not considered a package tour. Note that the General Terms of Participation include general information and the rights and obligations of the two contracting parties in the package tour, while for specific and special information (destinations, prices, days and times of departure and return, means of transport, accommodations, visits, etc.), concerning each organized trip separately, you should consult the program of each trip and the relevant price list.
5.1 GENERAL
The programs are valid for the period stated in the current price list and in an indivisible combination with it, to which any changes, corrections, and information about the trips are referred, binding all customers. The final configuration of the trip, the services, and the price is included in the package tour contract, which both parties sign and accept. Information and details of the trip programs may change due to frequent and exceptional changes in conditions worldwide, particularly in transportation and international relations.
5.2 TRAVEL CONTRACT
Participation in an organized trip requires signing a contract between the Company and the traveler (customer), i.e., you, which also covers the group you represent and finance, a copy of which you are required to receive. These General Terms of Participation constitute an integral part of this contract.
5.3 REGISTRATIONS – BOOKINGS – CONTRACT
You can register for one of our trips if you are over 18 years old or if you are accompanied by an adult (if the adult companion is not one of the parents, they must have the relevant guarantee letters stating that the minor is traveling with the consent of the parents or guardians). Registrations are made by visiting our offices or those of our partners, by correspondence, fax, telephone, or through our website. To reserve seats on the specific trip, the following are required:
The customer’s declaration of participation/registration in an organized trip must be made no later than 15 days before the trip’s departure date or unless otherwise specified. For any booking to be valid, it must be accompanied by a deposit equal to 35% of the total participation costs. Telephone or other types of bookings not confirmed by the payment of the corresponding deposit and not accompanied by written acceptance of the terms of this contract do not oblige the Company to make reservations. The customer has been registered with the name provided by themselves or by the agency acting on our behalf. Please check your passport as the Company does not bear any responsibility in case of an error in the ticket and other reservations. In case of ticket cancellation due to a name change, cancellation fees may apply. To make a reservation, a clear photocopy of the passport must be sent by fax or email. The details must be handwritten and signed by the customer. Otherwise, we cannot proceed with the reservation or issue a visa if required. Reservations for the services offered by the Company are made with the issuance of the program and within the specified registration period for each trip. The right to participate in the trip is secured with the full payment of the total value and the relevant charges 12 full working days before departure. Failure to pay the total value of the trip within the stipulated time gives the Company the right to cancel the reservation and possibly require cancellation fees, according to the cancellation terms specified in each Travel Package. The contract is completed and comes into effect with the payment of the deposit, the issuance of the relevant receipt, and the completion and signing of the contract, and not from any other point in time. A copy of the contract is required. The contract covers you and the persons you represent and finance, and their names are listed in this contract. Participation in an organized trip requires signing the contract and your acceptance of its terms. The contracting party, who represents the family or group, is obliged to inform all co-travelers represented by them about the trip’s details and Terms. Participants through a third party have the same obligations as the representative who registered them for the trip, and the travel agency will provide them with any relevant information if requested.
5.4 TRIP PRICES – CHARGES
The value of the trips is stated in the current price list of the Company, where the other mandatory charges (fees-taxes, airport taxes, fuel surcharges, tips, visa, etc.) are also analyzed. The prices stated in the current price list have been calculated based on the cost elements of the trip (airfare, transportation costs, hotel offers, etc.) and the exchange rates in effect at the date of issuance of the price list. The Company reserves the right to adjust prices in case of changes in the trip cost factors. Indicatively (and not restrictively), the following reasons are mentioned:
Price changes for trips due to the above reasons may be made up to 10 days before departure. In the event of a significant price increase for the above reasons, the customer may cancel their participation within two days of notification and have the money they paid refunded or be offered another trip of equal value. As a standard, the prices of organized trips are for one person and cover only the mentioned services in the “included” section. If you wish to extend your stay, change flights, or request another additional service different or not included in the trip program, you should request it from the booking department and bear the additional cost. The Company has the right, for a specified period or a limited number of seats, to sell seats at more favorable prices, with special cancellation terms. The prices listed in the price lists do not include some additional expenses, such as airport taxes, port fees, other taxes and surcharges, tips, visas, festive dinners, etc. Please be informed by our sales department and the trip program – price list for the exact cost and payment method. The prices for taxes and visas have been calculated based on the data in effect at the date of issuance of the price list and may be modified until the trip is made. Visa costs are calculated as the group visa price. In the case of a foreign passport, express, or individual visa, the price varies by case. It is possible that special offers require full payment of the service, different cancellation periods, or assignment of participation rights, which are usually unfavorable for the traveler. In special offers, the booking may not accept cancellation or any change and may require 100% cancellation charges in case of cancellation. Local taxes are not included in the package price, and their payment is mandatory, while they are payable at the destination. Otherwise, no boarding permit is given for return to Greece. If the Company accepts a trip booking after the registration deadline, the non-securement of a visa or other travel documents or health formalities that may be required is the full responsibility and liability of the traveler, even if the Company mediated indirectly or directly, and does not exempt the traveler from any cancellation fees if they ultimately cannot make the trip. Child charges (for ages 2-12 years and only when two adults pay in the same room) vary by case, from free accommodation, without food, in hotels and ships, to a small discount. In charters (chartered means of transport), all passengers, including children, pay a regular fare. Note that special charter flights usually do not offer any child or infant discounts.
5.5 CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS OF MIDEAST TRAVEL (MID EAST International Travel Ltd.)
The Company acts as an intermediary between customers/travelers and the various service providers used to organize trips (transport companies, airlines, hotels, collaborating travel agencies, etc.) over whom it has no direct control. Having exhausted all possibilities of foresight and care, it is not responsible for errors and omissions of third parties unrelated to the provision of services and their associates and for extraordinary situations, such as cancellations, delays, or route changes of various means of transport due to unforeseen factors such as, indicatively, weather conditions, epidemics, fires, floods, earthquakes, disasters, strikes, political events, war or threat of war, hijackings, terrorist acts, riots, etc. Due to the possibility of minor or major delays for technical, meteorological, or other reasons, customers should not plan visits on flight days or generally on their transport from one destination to another. It is emphasized that the Company is not able to foresee or control circumstances outside its sphere of influence and may lead to the cancellation of the trip or non-performance or poor performance of the agreed travel services. (Examples: accidents, illnesses, epidemics, injuries or hardships due to war, coups, terrorist acts, hijackings, earthquakes, weather conditions, fires.) The Company also bears no responsibility in cases such as: (examples) theft, loss, damage to luggage and various items, loss of money and travel documents of travelers, etc. In such cases, the Company will make every possible effort to assist and care for customers in any way, without this constituting responsibility or obligation to cover related emergency expenses, which must be paid by the customers themselves. Reasonable complaints during the trip must be reported immediately and on-site to the escort (or, in their absence, to our office) and the provider of the specific service, in writing. The escort records the remarks about the matter in the same form. If the highlighted problem cannot be resolved on-site, after your return from the trip, you should submit any related complaint in writing to the Company within 5 working days, along with any documents or other evidence you have for its justification. After the 5-day period, the Company has no obligation to respond to any claim.
There may be a case where, for cost feasibility, an organized trip requires a minimum number of participants, which you will be informed of by the travel agent. If this number is not met, the Company reserves the right to cancel the specific trip and is obliged to inform consumers who have registered for it in writing within the deadlines provided in the organized trip description and propose any alternative travel solutions. If no alternative solution is found, the Company will refund the paid amount without any other obligation to the customer. For provisions not mentioned in the descriptions of the organized trip programs or mentioned as optional, either not offered at all by our travel agency or provided at an additional charge beyond the listed prices, the agency bears no responsibility. These optional provisions, (local excursions, evening events, museum entries, etc.), are not mandatory for either party (organizer/customer), and they are conducted only if a minimum number of participants is reached and the total amount is prepaid.
5.6 TRIP PROGRAM
The Company makes every possible effort for the best and most consistent execution of the trip programs. However, since the date of issuance of the related brochures and until the trip’s realization, changes may occur, which the Company cannot control, some details may not entirely agree with those listed in the brochures at the time of the trip (e.g., non-operation of a museum or another attraction, technical problems with hotel amenities and equipment, etc.). Unforeseen circumstances may necessitate a change in the program before departure or during the trip. Before departure, the Company reserves the right to modify the trip program due to unforeseen factors, such as delays, route cancellations of transport means, changes in hotel categories due to issues with building facilities or incorrect hotel booking control, or even due to extraordinary events occurring in the country where the trip takes place. Such events are those the respective state declares as force majeure, indicative, weather conditions, epidemics, fires, floods, earthquakes, disasters, strikes, political events, war or threat of war, hijackings, terrorist acts, riots, etc.
In these cases, the customer/traveler has three alternatives:
During the trip, the leader or local representative has the right to make modifications to the trip program when facing an emergency, such as cancellations or delays of transport means schedules, or even force majeure events (war, coup, earthquake, etc.). All emergency expenses (additional overnight stays, meals, transportation, etc.) are borne by the traveler as the nature of these events makes their prediction impossible.
5.7 TRIP CANCELLATION
The minimum required participation for all organized trips to destinations outside Europe is 14 people unless otherwise stated in the specific trip description and the signed contract between the Company and the customer-consumer. Our company has the right to cancel any trip for the following reasons: In case of force majeure events (as mentioned above) at any time. In this case, the Company is obliged to refund the participants in full the amount of money they have already paid, minus the administrative expenses, according to the cancellation terms. In case of limited participation (for air programs, a minimum participation of 16-20 people is required), our company is obliged to inform the participants 7 days before the departure of the trip and refund them in full the amount of money they have already paid. Also, in cases of limited participation, the trip may be conducted with a surcharge stated in the trip program and does not constitute a reason for cancellation. The surcharge is determined by the existing participation, and the customer is informed of the additional cost upon booking. In both cases, the customer has the right to purchase another trip from our company at the same selling price or cheaper, where the price difference will be refunded or more expensive, where the additional price difference will be paid. Cancellation of the trip for any medical emergency that arises for the customer or a family member before departure (indicatively and not restrictively, pregnancy, heart attack, gallbladder complication, etc.) is charged based on cancellation fees. If the customer cancels the trip then: Cancellation fees apply even if you wish to participate in the same exact trip but on a future date.
In case of an emergency, you have the right to assign the trip to a third party provided that:
In cases of announced offers, during periods of exhibitions, sports, or artistic events, thematic-special trips, tickets for internal flights in foreign countries, cruises, or trips conducted with specially chartered flights or ships, as well as during peak periods (18/12 – 8/1, Easter period, and 15/7 – 31/8), the deposit for cancellation 45 days before departure is withheld.
If the above cancellation fees do not equal 100% of the trip’s total value, the person who will ultimately travel will pay the difference of their room, as they will necessarily stay in a single room.
5.8 CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS OF CUSTOMERS
Since organized trips usually involve other people, participation requires a corresponding social behavior and understanding towards fellow travelers and the factors of its realization. Therefore, customers must fully comply with the trip program and the instructions of escorts or guides and be punctual at the meeting points for the various program provisions (flights, transportation, tours, meals, etc.). Delay and inconsistency of the customer result in the loss of the flight, tour, transfer, or other service, without the right to a refund for the missed service. In this case, the customer must reconnect with the group at their own responsibility and expense. The lack of consistency, among other problems it creates, gives the escort the right to ignore the indifferent customer, and the Company to refuse any compensation for services not provided to them. Participants in organized trips are also solely responsible for the timely securing and safeguarding of the necessary travel documents as well as the authenticity of their statements to Greek or foreign monetary and customs authorities. At airports, you must be at least two (2) hours before your departure unless otherwise informed by the office or the escort-leader. If no escort is provided on the trip, you must confirm your next flights with the airline on-site and ensure from which airport and terminal your flight departs. Customers from other areas should arrive much earlier – preferably the previous day – at the trip’s departure location to avoid delays or strikes of local transport means. Missing the organized trip transport due to such delay results in the loss of the entire trip if it is not possible to reconnect with the rest of the group, without the right to a refund. Otherwise, the expenses for reconnecting with the rest of the group are borne by the customers themselves. The Company will make every effort to assist them organizationally. For all trips abroad, a new passport is required, which must be valid for at least six months after the scheduled return date. Some countries require travelers’ passports to expire at least 3-12 months after their arrival. Schengen area countries also accept the new IDs that mention the holder’s details in Latin characters. The IDs for Schengen countries must be issued in the last 10 years. Each traveler is responsible for the validity and authenticity, securing, and safekeeping of the travel documents required for their trip. The Company may, at its discretion, assist travelers in securing these documents and is not responsible for any non-issuance or non-endorsement by the competent authorities to which the customer must apply. Nationals of other countries, holders of foreign passports or residence permits, must inform the consular authorities of their country and the countries they will visit in writing to check if they need an entry visa or any other documents for the countries they will transit or travel to, and for their re-entry into Greece or the country from which they started. Failure to timely secure the issuance or endorsement of travel documents does not justify canceling the participation without cancellation charges. Special attention is required regarding the travel documents of minors, who must definitely have a passport. If minors are not accompanied by their parents, there must be a notarized authorization from the parents to the companions. Also, if one parent alone accompanies a minor child, they must have a notarized authorization in Greek and English from the other parent, who does not travel. The traveler is responsible for the safekeeping of tickets and all travel documents throughout the trip. In case of loss, the Company bears no responsibility but will make every effort to assist in their retrieval. The traveler must comply with national regulations and instructions of national authorities. The Company bears no responsibility if the traveler faces criminal prosecution, summons to appear before an authority, arrest, entry or exit ban, or other cancellation by national authorities. You cannot make any modification to your trip or change hotels while the trip is in progress. Interrupting the trip, for any reason – important or not – is not allowed. The Company never refunds the amounts paid, and any expenses arising from a trip interruption (return tickets, etc.) are solely borne by the traveler. If the customer interrupts the trip of their own decision and separates from the group, even for force majeure reasons, they are not entitled to any further service or compensation, and the responsibility and expenses of any movement outside the group rest solely with them. Travelers’ obligation is to study the trip program and the participation terms in detail. If the traveler has any special wish (e.g., food allergy, vegetarian meal, desires another room type instead of standard, etc.), they must inform during registration, and the Company will try to satisfy them but cannot guarantee the fulfillment of the special wish. Likewise, the Company bears no responsibility for organized trip services not provided to the customer due to their own negligence or fault, or due to their illness. Before departing from the hotel or accommodation, you must settle any personal bills (from phone calls, drinks, etc.) in a timely manner. If the customer is unable to participate in the organized trip for which they have reserved a place, they may transfer their reservation to another person who meets the participation requirements for that specific trip, no later than 15 working days before departure. In the case of any outstanding balance or possible additional costs from the transfer (e.g., because the new customer is of the opposite gender), both the transferor and the transferee are jointly liable to our office for payment. The consequent mandatory cancellation of the reservation will be done according to the cancellation terms provided herein.
The Company provides all information about necessary vaccinations or other medical precautions for tropical or other epidemic areas. However, due to personal medical data, the customer is responsible for consulting the appropriate health authorities. The traveler must be informed in time by local health offices about the health regulations of each country and about the vaccines or medications they may need to procure. Always have the relevant certificates with you. Customers who have health issues (elderly, pregnant women, people with mobility problems) must inform the Company and obtain their doctor’s consent to travel. If they register for an organized trip while knowing about their health issue and without informing the Company, the Company bears no responsibility for any complication during the trip due to this reason.
The Company is not responsible for illness, injury, loss of life, accident, or any other health-related emergency during the trip. If such an event occurs, the Company will support the affected person as much as possible but is not obligated to cover any related expenses. Because the trip for the remaining travelers must continue normally, the Company’s representatives in the area (leaders, escorts, representatives, etc.) cannot remain beyond reasonable limits—as imposed and defined by the necessity of smoothly continuing the program for the other group members— with the affected person during their care, hospitalization, etc. The Company reserves the right to interrupt the trip of a traveler and arrange for their return to Greece if it is deemed that their health or life or that of other travelers is at risk. Any expenses are the responsibility of the customer-traveler.
5.9 INCLUDED SERVICES
A. Hotels
All information regarding the categorization or classification of hotels and accommodations mentioned in the Company’s organized trip programs is in accordance with the current legislation of each country for the tourist classification of hotels and accommodations, which may vary from country to country. You should know that there is no uniform international classification of hotels. Unless otherwise provided, the stay is in standard rooms. If the traveler pays the difference for a single room, this does not necessarily mean that their room will be spacious or in a better location. The rooms in most hotels worldwide are designed to accommodate two beds. It is recommended to avoid triple rooms, which are usually double rooms with an added folding bed and, therefore, not comfortable. If you want a double bed in a double room, you should inform us upon registration. Our company will try to secure it for you, but we cannot guarantee its fulfillment. The selection of rooms, floors, etc., is made solely by the hotel management, which is exclusively responsible for all services provided by the hotel (meals, room service, etc.). The rooms are usually handed over by the hotel between 13:00-15:00 and are at the disposal of the occupants until 11:00 on the day of departure. If you wish to enter the room earlier or leave later, the Company will try to accommodate you, and if rooms are available, you will have to pay the related surcharge. The Company, of course, makes every effort to extend the stay limit to accommodate travelers departing on late-night or very early flights. This service will be available if the rooms have not been assigned to other hotel guests. In individual trips, in case of late arrival at the hotel, after the scheduled arrival day or time of the customer, and if the hotel and our office have not been notified, the hotel has the right to cancel the reservation and allocate the room for the entire booking period if requested. Because the Company has no control over hotels and room reservations, it is possible to be notified at the last minute by the destination hotel that it is not possible to provide the rooms reserved for travelers for any reason (such as overbooking). In this case, the Company will replace the room with another hotel room of the same category or, if not possible, with a room of a lower category and will refund the difference to the customer without the Company bearing any further responsibility or obligation. It is recommended not to leave bags, cameras, phones, and other personal items exposed and to continuously monitor them in any hotel, ship, and other accommodation spaces, as well as in transportation means.
B. Air Tickets – Airlines
Air travel in organized trips is conducted with economy class tickets and based on group fares requiring a specific minimum number of travelers (which varies by trip) and is subject to stay and layover restrictions. Air travel for individual travelers is conducted with tickets of the preferred class of the travelers. Airlines can change schedules and aircraft types without notice. The Company cannot intervene with the airline to reduce any layovers and waiting times. Airlines have exclusive control and responsibility for flight schedules, and the Company cannot intervene and bears no responsibility in this regard. In the case of overbooking (more bookings than seats on the aircraft) or any other reason, even if a confirmed and coded seat exists, the airline has the right to deny boarding without the Company bearing any responsibility, and the airline alone is responsible. Any modification or cancellation requested after the ticket is issued incurs cancellation fees. If the passenger does not show up at the airport on the day of departure and has not made any changes to their ticket through the office, the return ticket is automatically canceled by the airline, and no amount can be claimed from the Company, which bears no responsibility. Airlines, for their own reasons, sometimes charter planes from another airline for their flights. This is not a reason for the customer to cancel the trip or claim any compensation.
C. Buses – Tour Duration
On bus trips, in Greece tours and international excursions, seats alternate daily and not during the trip or excursion. Smoking on the coach is prohibited. Our office ensures comfortable and luxurious coaches, which of course, depends on the country being visited. There are countries where their tourist infrastructure and amenities are not yet developed. The duration of a full-day visit/excursion does not exceed eight (8) total hours, calculated from departure to return to the hotel. The duration of a half-day visit/excursion does not exceed four (4) hours, calculated from departure to return to the hotel.
Attention: In many countries, legislation is very strict about how long a coach can move and how long the driver can drive. Any delay by travelers can affect the program. Our office bears no responsibility, and travelers are asked to adhere to the program, ensuring the smooth conduct of it.
5.10 LUGGAGE
Luggage is handed over to the carrier and collected with the responsibility and care of their owners, regardless of whether a representative of the travel agency accompanies them. Each traveler is usually entitled to carry one suitcase weighing up to 20 kg and one carry-on bag measuring 53cm X 45cm X 23cm and up to 7 kg. On air travel, luggage weight should not exceed (20) twenty kilograms, and airlines allow only one carry-on bag of (7) seven kilograms in the aircraft cabin.
Attention: Each passenger must carry their own luggage. The number, weight, and dimensions of luggage may differ on some airlines or internal flights, so please check with our travel agents. Airlines will not accept a common luggage of 40 (forty) kilograms, even if it concerns two people theoretically sharing the weight. In case of overweight, you are required to pay the amount requested by the airline at the time of departure. The traveler must comply with the airline’s instructions, regulations, and overall policy. Regarding overweight luggage, the responsible party is the respective airline, and the Company bears no responsibility in this regard. In case of damage or loss, IATA regulations for airplanes and corresponding international Conventions for each means of transport and hotels apply, limiting liability according to these Conventions. The Company bears no responsibility for the contents of the luggage. In case of damage or loss of luggage at the airport, you should directly contact the airport’s relevant department to report the loss or damage. Only the airline is responsible, not the Company.
5.11 OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS
The leaders/escorts accompanying you from Athens or meeting you in your destination countries may organize optional excursions in collaboration with local travel agents, depending on the program. Prices may vary depending on prevailing conditions such as the number of people, festive periods, night surcharges, etc. The Company bears no responsibility for these optional excursions as it is not aware of and has not contributed to their organization.
5.12 DISPUTE RESOLUTION
The Company and the customer commit to resolving any dispute that may arise during the execution of the organized/individual trip contract in good faith. If an amicable resolution is not possible, the Courts of Athens have jurisdiction.
ARTICLE 6. PAYMENT PROCEDURES
6.1 PAYMENTS
When booking through the Website, the Customer may have the option to “pay now.” The Service is provided by a secure bank environment to the Customer, and the bank, on behalf of the Company, will charge the payment card amount in the currency indicated at that time. The price of the Services booked on the Website or by phone must be paid either to (i) the Company or (ii) directly to third-party Providers. There may be charges from more than one party (as shown on the Customer’s bank or credit card statement), but the total amount charged will not exceed the total price of the Services. The Customer will be transferred to the bank’s secure system to provide their payment card details, and the bank will often need to verify: (a) the validity of the payment card (by charging a nominal amount, which is either refunded within a few days or deducted from the final payment due to the third-party Provider) and (b) the availability of the balance on the payment card (which is confirmed by the issuing bank of the Customer’s credit card). In addition to any other taxes and fees to be paid by the Customer as specified in these General Terms and Conditions, taxes and fees may vary depending on the payment option chosen by the Customer. Note that some ferry tickets may require a deposit, which may or may not be refundable. Your credit card provider may also charge a foreign currency conversion fee. Some banks and credit card companies impose fees for international or cross-border transactions. For example, if you make a booking using a card issued in Greece with a merchant outside Greece, your bank may charge you a fee for an international or cross-border transaction. Additionally, booking international travel may be considered an international transaction by your bank or card company. Furthermore, some banks and card companies impose currency conversion fees. For example, if you book in a currency other than your credit card’s currency, the credit card company may convert the booking amount to your credit card’s currency and charge a conversion fee. The exchange rate and foreign transaction fees are determined solely by your bank on the day of processing the transaction. If you have questions about these fees or the exchange rate applicable to your booking, please contact your bank.
6.2 THIRD-PARTY PAYMENT METHODS
Besides the standard payment methods available for any booking made through the Website, the Company may offer, among others, “installment payment” options or other credit for a booking. These options are generally provided by third-party Providers under their terms and conditions, not set by the Company (or any of the Company’s affiliated companies). Any agreement you make with a payment option is between you and the third-party Provider, and the prices for travel services displayed on the Website do not account for any such separate agreements. The applicable Rules and Restrictions of the third-party Provider of such payment options are provided before making a booking. Any questions or complaints regarding such third-party payment options should be directed to the relevant third-party Provider.
ARTICLE 7. CUSTOMER SERVICE AND COMPLAINT HANDLING
Questions or requests for information or complaints during a trip should be sent to mideast@mideast.gr. Alternatively, the Customer may call the Company’s customer service department at the number listed on the Contact page. Complaints made after the trip should be sent via email to mideast@mideast.gr, which will receive complaints on behalf of third-party Providers. To facilitate complaint resolution, Customers are advised to make complaints within 30 days of the end of the trip. Any written complaints should be directed either to the third-party Provider that provided the Service, using the address mentioned in their Rules and Restrictions, or to the Company. Customers are advised to report any issues they encounter during their trip through the above number (or as soon as practicably possible) or to the carrier if the dispute arose during the outbound or return journey so that measures can be taken to resolve the problem and limit the damage suffered by the Customer. Complaints about loss, theft, or damage to luggage, clothing, or personal belongings not under the Customer’s control during their stay should be directed to the airline, hotel, or relevant third-party Provider. Note that failure to report problems during the holidays, as described above, deprives us and the third-party Provider of the opportunity to investigate and rectify your complaint while you are at the resort, and this may affect your rights under this contract, including the reduction of any compensation due, which may become null and void. The European Commission’s online dispute resolution platform is available at http://ec.europa.eu/odr.
ARTICLE 8. COMPANY LIABILITY
The Customer accepts that in cases where the Company acts as an interface between the Customer and travel service Providers, the Company shall not be held liable regarding the Services booked by the Customer with one or more travel service Providers. The Company is not liable as long as the Customer can claim damages under an insurance policy, such as travel insurance and/or holiday cancellation insurance. The company accepts no liability for any claims, losses, expenses, damages, or liabilities except in cases where death, injury, or illness occurs and the company has caused the harm through negligence. The information displayed on this Website has been provided by the respective third-party Providers, and the Company accepts no liability for any inaccuracies. Customers must ensure they verify all information provided before booking. Customers should note that all displayed hotel ratings are indicative only and may not constitute an official rating or correspond to the local classification. The Company accepts no responsibility for the ratings presented. If the Company and/or the third-party Provider discovers or is informed of any fraud or illegal activity related to the payment for the booking, the booking will be canceled, and the Customer will be responsible for all costs arising from such cancellation, without prejudice to any legal action that may be taken against them.
ARTICLE 9. APPLICABLE LAW
These General Terms and Conditions are governed by Greek law. The Customer agrees that the Greek courts have jurisdiction to hear and settle any disputes (including non-contractual disputes or claims) arising from the interpretation of these terms.
ARTICLE 10. COPYRIGHT AND TRADEMARK NOTICES
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The OpenStreetMap geographical data used in mapping is © contributors to OpenStreetMap and is available under the Open Database License (ODbl).
ARTICLE 11. FINAL PROVISIONS
If the Company does not invoke a provision of these General Terms and Conditions at any time, this should not be interpreted as a waiver of the right to invoke it later. If any provision of these General Terms and Conditions (or part of any provision) is found by any court or other competent authority to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable, that provision or part thereof shall, to the required extent, not be considered part of this agreement with the Customer, while the validity and enforceability of the other provisions will not be affected. Any force majeure event, including interruption of communication means or a strike by carriers, hoteliers, or air traffic controllers, leads to the suspension of the obligations stipulated in these General Terms and Conditions that are affected by the force majeure event, and the affected party bears no liability for the inability to meet these obligations.
These General Terms and Conditions are effective as of September 1, 2021.
All rights not expressly stated herein are reserved.
