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Terms & Conditions

A legal disclaimer

The Traveling Turtle, operated by Merilee Schaffner, acts solely as a travel advisor and independent booking agent. While we strive to work with trusted travel suppliers and provide accurate, up-to-date information, The Traveling Turtle is not responsible for the acts, errors, omissions, warranties, representations, breaches, or negligence of any third-party providers, including but not limited to airlines, cruise lines, tour operators, transportation companies, lodging providers, and other travel-related services.

All travel arrangements are subject to the terms and conditions, policies, and decisions of the respective suppliers. Travelers are responsible for reviewing and agreeing to those terms before confirming any booking.

The Traveling Turtle shall not be held liable for any personal injury, illness, death, property damage, delay, cancellation, financial loss, inconvenience, or other damages related to travel, including but not limited to those arising from natural disasters, weather, pandemics, political instability, strikes, or government restrictions.

Travelers are encouraged to purchase travel insurance and verify all passport, visa, vaccination, and health requirements before departure. Any information provided by The Traveling Turtle is for general guidance only and should not be considered legal or medical advice.

By using this website and booking services through The Traveling Turtle, you agree to release Merilee Schaffner and any affiliated entities from liability for any issues that may arise during your travel.

Terms & Conditions - the basics

🛫 Terms & Conditions
Effective Date: 08/01/2025

By booking with The Traveling Turtle, you agree to the terms outlined below.
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1. Our Role
The Traveling Turtle, operated by Merilee Schaffner, serves as a travel advisor and intermediary between you and travel suppliers (e.g. airlines, hotels, cruise lines, and tour operators). We do not own or operate any travel service providers and are not responsible for their actions or policies.
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2. Booking & Payments
  • A non-refundable planning fee may apply before detailed work begins (disclosed in advance).
  • Bookings are not guaranteed until payment is received and confirmed by the supplier.
  • You are responsible for providing accurate traveler information (names, dates, preferences, etc.).
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3. Cancellations & Refunds
  • Each supplier has its own cancellation, change, and refund policies. We will help you navigate them, but we are not responsible for supplier penalties or delays.
  • All planning fees are non-refundable.
  • Travel insurance is highly recommended to protect your trip investment.
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4. Travel Documents & Entry Requirements
You are responsible for ensuring all travelers in your group have valid:
  • Passports
  • Visas (if required)
  • Vaccination and health documentation
    The Traveling Turtle is not responsible for denied boarding or entry due to incomplete documentation.
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5. Health & Safety
Travel may involve risks such as illness, injury, political unrest, or natural disasters.
We are not liable for:
  • Health issues during travel
  • COVID-19 or other outbreaks
  • Government restrictions or advisories
Check with your healthcare provider and review CDC/WHO travel guidelines.
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6. Limitations of Liability
We are not liable for:
  • Supplier errors, delays, cancellations, or overbookings
  • Changes due to weather, force majeure, or government actions
  • Personal injury, property damage, or financial loss related to travel
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7. Client Responsibilities
You agree to:
  • Respect all local laws, customs, and travel partners
  • Cover any damages or costs caused by misconduct during travel
  • Share accurate and complete information to ensure proper planning
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8. Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance. We can refer you to trusted providers, but final coverage decisions rest with the insurer.
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9. Updates
These Terms & Conditions may be updated at any time. The most current version will be posted on this page.
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10. Agreement
By booking travel through The Traveling Turtle, you agree to these terms in full.

If you have any questions, please contact us.
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