Important holiday information
Transcription
Important holiday information
NEI_SKI_1314_1ST_307_313.qxp:Layout 1 8/11/12 10:19 Page 307 Important holiday information Your holiday price Important Information about changes to the way we price our holidays When you check our latest holiday price with your travel agent or on our website, you will be advised of the basic holiday price including any additional costs associated with your choice of flight (such as, the departure point, day and time of flight or seasonality of your flight). By way of a guide, we have provided some approximate costs that will be included in your holiday price depending on your flight selection – these are listed in the ‘Flight’ section at the back of this brochure. The only supplements you are likely to see when you book that relate to your choice of flight will be for Premium Cabin, extra leg room, or other optional services (such as seat selection, internet check-in, extra baggage or in-flight meals). Just ask your travel agent, or visit our website to check our latest holiday prices. How to price your holiday European Resorts Our brochure is intended to provide a quick and easy way for you to compare typical prices between different holiday packages. We have shown in our price panels an accurate indication of our basic lead in prices but we do not over complicate our price panels with different charges, fees or supplements, particularly when we know these can change. We regularly review our prices and whilst occasionally its necessary to put prices up, more often our prices come down, so to help you calculate the best possible price just ask your travel agent, phone us direct, or visit our website for up to the minute prices. Holiday prices are influenced by many factors. The price includes current taxes (such as air passenger duty), aircraft insurance, security, fuel and other associated costs known at the time of booking. Our prices are affected by changes in these costs, along with changes in exchange rates, suppliers costs and economic trends (see section 'Extra Charges before booking'). The guide prices we show are based on current charges and costs, we reserve the right to alter prices and introduce supplements - we'll let you know any applicable supplements and the total price of your holiday on enquiry. To help you to compare our guide prices please keep the following in mind:• Prices are per person based on the number of adults sharing as given in the accommodation description (see 'What the price includes / What's Extra' for more details). • The basic lead in price shown applies to selected departures within each date range (there may be a number of departure dates available between the dates shown which may carry higher prices than the lead in price). • Child discounts, under occupancy supplements and room type/board basis supplements are shown as ‘from’ amounts. The lowest supplements will apply to low season/off peak travel periods so supplements may be higher for more popular travel dates. • Our lead in prices are accurate at the time this brochure is produced but are subject to change and may go up and down. • Accommodation supplements vary by the date the accommodation is occupied so may vary throughout your holiday. Resorts in Canada, Norway, Sweden & Switzerland Holiday prices are influenced by a variety of factors, particularly depending on the type of travel option you book. We aim to provide as much flexibility with our packages as possible. It’s not possible to show in our brochures all the seat classes, upgrades, supplements and fares for all our different travel arrangements due to the range of options available. That’s why when you book, you can select from a wide choice of travel options to suit your needs and obtain our most up to date prices. With such a wide choice, any prices we show are just an indication of our lead in prices but these are likely to change. Where our packages include a flight, airlines will limit the number of seats available at these prices by flight and date of travel. If the price shown in our brochure is not available when you book we will offer our next best price. Occasionally we also receive special fares from airlines, whilst these may be more restrictive they can offer excellent value. For the latest prices, please visit our website or ask your travel agent. Neilson price match We aim to offer some of the lowest available prices for charter flight ski holidays in the UK. If you find your identical holiday cheaper than you can book with us then we’ll look to match it. The booking must be for a minimum of two full-fare paying passengers on an identical and bookable holiday featured in any other non Thomas Cook Group Tour Operators brochure available at your ABTA travel agent (with the exception of special offer brochures). Holiday price comparisons will be between the total cost for the entire travelling party including flight and accommodation supplements, but excluding insurance premiums. We will consider all Price Match requests received but are under no obligation to reduce the Neilson holiday price. In order for accurate comparisons to be made, the holidays must be identical in all respects i.e. the same departure date and airport and the same accommodation (including room type and board basis). Flight timings must be directly comparable and departing no more than 2 hours before or after our flight. A flight must be either a day or night flight as appropriate. Holidays including scheduled flights, special offers, late availability prices, travel agents’ offers and group booking discounts are excluded. In cases where free children’s holidays are to be included in price comparisons, we would ask you to note the following: If your booking with us includes a free child place but the alternative holiday you have located does not, the appropriate child price applicable on that alternative holiday will be taken into account in the calculation. All ‘Price Match’ holiday requests must be supported by proof of availability at the claimed price at the time of booking. Note: ‘Price Match’ excludes ‘Neilson Ski Inclusive’. Neilson snow guarantee Anyone taking the Neilson Ski/White Horse Insurance is automatically covered for piste closure insurance at no additional cost. Should you choose a different policy, you should ensure that any other insurance cover must be at least of equal standard to Neilson/White Horse Ski Insurance. If you do not take the Neilson/White Horse policy, and your own policy does not contain its own piste closure provisions, you will not receive the benefits outlined below. Space on transport provided by Neilson to other ski areas cannot be guaranteed, and if available, will be payable locally at between £10 and £30 per person per day. Piste closure cover details – up to £500 (nil excess) The piste closure covers you for up to £50 per day only for transport that we can arrange for you in the event that it may be necessary to transfer you by coach to another ski area if it becomes impossible to ski in your resort due to lack of snow or too much snow. If you have pre-booked your lift-pass, we will refund this to you in full in resort. This cover applies to downhill alpine skiing and does not cover cross-country skiing, nor does it apply to piste closure due to adverse weather conditions other than lack of snow or too much snow (eg. High winds). In the unlikely event that no suitable alternative area is available, you will be entitled to compensation on return to UK of £50 (up to £500) for each complete day you have been unable to ski. See page 314 for our insurance provider. What the price includes • Accommodation - Prices are shown per person within the price panel for each property. For hotels, the price applies to each of the two adults sharing a room. Larger hotel rooms may have a minimum occupancy requirement of more than two adults and the price shown will be based on the higher occupancy. Apartment, cabin and studio prices are usually based on the maximum number of adults sharing the accommodation and for fewer adults under-occupancy supplements usually apply (see ‘Under Occupancy Supplements’ - page 311). • Meals – as described in the accommodation description. If you book half board, this means breakfast and dinner; full board - you will be provided with breakfast, lunch and dinner. • Return flights from a selected airport. The price of your holiday will be influenced by your flight selection and date of travel. See the flight section at the back of this brochure for full details. • Assistance from a Neilson Representative or UK Duty Office 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. • Return Transport between your destination airport and accommodation in resort is included for charter holidays. This will be in the form of a minibus or coach transfer unless otherwise specified in the accommodation description or confirmed on your invoice. You may find that your transfer is shared by customers from other tour operators within the Thomas Cook group and could make a number of stops en route. We have combined transfers in this way to ensure that you depart as swiftly and efficiently as possible. • Air passenger duty (APD), UK airport taxes and security charges - all prices include current government APD. Since 1st November 2009, destinations have been categorised into four geographical bands based on distance from London. Each band has two rates, one for standard class of travel and one for other classes of travel. The rates are Visit neilson.co.uk see your travel agent or call us on 0845 070 3460 subject to change and are published on the HM Revenue & Customs website - visit www.hmrc.gov.uk. Our prices may go up or down if APD rates change after publication of this brochure. • Aviation Fuel Costs known at time of booking (see Extra Charges - before booking). • In flight snacks / meals – some airlines provide an in flight snack or meal included in the price of your fare, others charge a supplement on board, so always check before you travel. • Charges for extra security, aircraft insurance, aviation and other associated costs. • ATOL Protection Contribution (APC) – the price of your flight package holiday includes the amount of currently £2.50 per person as part of the ATOL Protection Contribution (APC) we pay to the CAA who provides financial protection for your holiday in the unlikely event of our failure. The amount you have paid will be shown on your confirmation invoice. • Luggage allowance: Your hand luggage and hold luggage allowances are independent of each other and cannot be combined together. Please refer to the Flight information page at the back of this brochure and the section titled ‘At the Airport’ for more information regarding hold/hand luggage. • Hold Allowance: All our holidays include a minimum of 15kgs luggage allowance which you can check-in for carriage in the aircrafts hold. (Some holidays include additional basic allowance at no extra cost, please see our brochure offers for details and check carefully at the time of booking). Infants travelling on Thomas Cook Airlines flights also receive 10kgs hold allowance - please refer to the section titled ‘Carriage of infants’ for more information. When you book you will be offered the opportunity to increase your hold luggage allowance for an additional charge – this will apply to all travellers on your booking. If you do not require extra allowance, please ask your travel agent to remove this at the time of booking. Please note – additional luggage allowance cannot be added once travel tickets have been issued. Excess baggage charges will apply if you exceed your allowance. • Hand Allowance: You are permitted to carry onboard a maximum of 5kg hand luggage per person (excluding infants) which cannot exceed a specific size/dimension as stated in our Flight section of this brochure (and on the Airlines website). And what’s extra • Holiday Insurance - you MUST be insured (see page 314). • Meal supplements - where applicable are in the accommodation descriptions and price panels. • Under-occupancy supplements – see section on ‘Under Occupancy Supplements’ on page 311. • Optional excursions. • Charges made by accommodation – see section ‘local charges’ below. • Locally collected taxes (including arrival/departure taxes and entry visas where applicable). • Accommodation Deposits - in some cases on arrival at self catering accommodation you may be asked for a deposit. This is refundable, less the cost of any additional cleaning, damage or loss. When you register, many hotels will ask you for an imprint of your credit card to cover any personal extras. If you do not have a credit card, they may ask for a large cash deposit. • Excess baggage on coaches and aircraft - excess baggage charges will apply if you exceed your allowance and/or you take sports equipment. Please refer to the section titled ‘Carriage of Sports Equipment’ in the flight information section for more details. • Ski/Snowboard carriage - A charge of £35 to pre-book ski/board carriage applies on Thomas Cook Airline flights. Other airlines vary and any payment due will be collected on check-in. See page 303 for details. • Christmas and New Year Gala meals where not shown as included. • Eurotunnel may be booked through us, see page 304 for more information. • Apartment holidays only: bed linen, towels unless stated as included in the individual apartment description. Cleaning, except where you have pre-purchased a special service package. • Ski racks and child seats for hire cars. • European road tolls and levies for private or hire cars. • Fuel, car parking fees and fines for private or hire cars. • Late booking fee - a charge will apply for all bookings made within 15 days of departure. The charge will be a minimum of £15 per person. 307 NEI_SKI_1314_1ST_307_313.qxp:Layout 1 8/11/12 10:19 Page 308 Important holiday information You will be advised of the applicable fee at the time of booking. • Tickets - tickets will be issued electronically, in person or via post when you book a holiday or at least 14 days prior to travel. If you book within 14 days it may be necessary to make arrangements for you to collect your tickets from our airport representative on arrival, or in some cases may be able to post or email your documentation to you, at your request, but if special delivery is required a charge may be applied. • Credit card charges – prices advertised in this brochure apply to payment by cash or debit card. A charge will apply to payment by credit card - please ask for details. • Possible surcharges - we reserve the right to surcharge, see ‘Extra charges’ below and ‘A2 Price changes’ section, page 315. • Visa charges - you are responsible for paying the costs in connection with obtaining visas. Extra Charges - before booking Please note carefully, as we indicate underneath the price panels, prices include an amount to cover our current fuel charges known at the time our brochure is produced. You should be aware that these charges and costs may change between date of publication of this brochure and the time of travel. We reserve the right to alter prices and introduce fuel supplements where changes in fuel costs occur. Furthermore, although we have included in our prices an extra charge to cover aviation, security, aircraft insurance and other associated costs, you should be aware that these charges and costs may change between the date of publication of this brochure and the time of travel. Since all these costs are beyond our control and subject to further changes, we reserve the right to pass on any additional charges to you and they will be added and shown separately at the time of booking. We reserve the right to change prices, prices can go up or down. Please therefore check carefully the total costing, including any additional charges, with us or your agent before you book. Local Charges At some accommodation certain amenities or services may carry a local charge. Unless we have stated that a service or facility is ‘free’ in our accommodation descriptions, you may be asked to pay a charge. Here are a few examples of what you might expect to pay for locally, but always check first as there may be others. • Daily car parking charge at some hotels/apartments. • Local taxes payable on check out. • Entertainment and activities away from your accommodation. • Highchairs, cots, hotel-run Children’s Clubs and meals for infants. • Certain à la carte meal options. • Porterage of luggage at any stage. • Safety deposit facilities, room service, minibar, TV / satellite TV, telephone calls, internet and Wi-Fi. • Facilities and equipment such as spa entry, indoor pools, sauna, steam room and table games. • Health & beauty treatments. Honeymoons, anniversaries & birthdays Ski Essentials and pre-bookable options Many hotels offer honeymooners and guests celebrating anniversaries and birthdays special treats such as fruit baskets, sparkling wine or free room upgrades (see also ‘room upgrades’ above). Where available, please note that the hotel may ask you to produce a marriage certificate in order to benefit from the honeymoon/ anniversary offers. You must also inform us at the time of booking. To make your arrival in resort easier we recommend that you pre-book equipment, lift passes and tuition. Unless prebooked, we cannot guarantee availability on peak dates. Once booked the price will not rise. Pre-bookings can usually be made up to 5 days before travel for European destinations and 10 days for Canada. After this you must book items locally. This brochure details the most popular items but please be aware that there may be more options available on the reservations system and in resort. Items are booked to start on the morning after your arrival. Should you wish to ski on the day you arrive, you will have to make your own arrangements. The prices shown in this brochure are from prices based on low season, visit neilson.co.uk for full details. The prices showing on the reservation system at the time of booking your ski pack items are the applicable ones, and may be higher or lower than the prices shown in the brochure. We reserve the right to increase prices at any time and to withdraw ski pack elements from sale. If you wish to cancel or amend items, you may do so up to 21 days before departure at a charge of £35 per person. (price correct at time of going to print). Promotional publications On occasions, we may make special offers on holidays at properties which are featured in this brochure. These special offers may for example be made in a series of one-off or promotional publications. The special offer packages may not be identical to the packages featured in this brochure. For example, the special offer package may not include in-flight meals, airport-resort transfers or children's club activities. The luggage allowance for special offer holidays will be 15kg per person. It is important to note that such special offers will not allow changes to be made to your booking once it has been confirmed. The deposits for special offer holidays may also be higher than stated in this brochure. For further details please contact your travel agent or us and also refer to terms and conditions that are contained in all special offer literature that is produced. 2 For 1 offers Where 2 for 1 offers are featured in your resort or accommodation, these should be booked against one person for two items. Some dates may be excluded. Ski & board packs These ‘Packs’ combine a lift pass (usually a local pass), equipment and tuition and offer a saving compared to booking each item individually. They are only available to be pre-booked and are not available for purchase in resort. Packs cannot be discounted or combined with other ski pack offers. Ski Essentials & holiday extras Resort activities Our brochure includes information on different types of activities, tours, excursions or establishments that you are likely to find in the local area. We do not own or operate any of these services. These are mentioned by way of a guide only, the information, availability and prices we include in our brochure are subject to change. If you choose to book services locally with the provider of any excursions and activities, we recommend you check your travel insurance covers any services you book and take part in and that you familiarise yourself with the company providing the services and any conditions that apply and literature/documentation you receive. Neilson does not recommend or endorse any particular excursions or activities available locally, except for excursions which are shown in our brochure as being ‘pre-bookable’ or which your representative may offer to book for you in your resort. Excursion days and times are approximate and all elements may be subject to change. Trips are subject to minimum numbers and weather conditions. Prices for activities mentioned in our brochure are per person and minimum ages may apply. Sometimes transport to the venue is not included and this is stated as such. Transport can be arranged locally for all participants who will need to pay for this in resort, the cost will vary depending on numbers. A full driving license must be shown for snowmobile activities and any other driving-based excursions. Please see our Booking Conditions for further information on excursions. Offers, options & holiday highlights Neilson offers Neilson reserves the right to amend or withdraw offers, price and elements at any time and without notice. All are subject to availability and cannot be added retrospectively. Many offers may not be combined. Lift pass & tuition price promise Pre-book with Neilson and we promise you won’t pay more than you would in resort - see page 308 Make sure you pre-book before you go - then your lift pass and tuition place is reserved and you’re guaranteed a great price! We promise that you’ll pay no more than you would have done had you waited and purchased your lift pass & tuition in resort. In the unlikely event that you did find a cheaper price for the identical lift pass or tuition* locally, we would refund you the difference in the local currency, there and then, no questions asked based on the exchange rate of €1.10: £1; *Please note we work closely with our chosen ski schools and will not consider price matching against alternative ski schools operating in the resort. This promise is for regular group lessons only. Lift passes - delivered to you in resort Lift passes to all resorts offered in this brochure can be pre-booked. If you pre-book then you are automatically covered by our Lift Pass Price Promise (see above) AND your lift pass will be delivered to you in resort - saving you the hassle of a visit to the lift pass office. In some resorts there may be more than one type of lift pass available so please remember to specify at the time of booking which pass you require where we offer a choice. If the pass offered doesn’t suit your requirements or is not offered for your age range, then, you should book upon arrival in the resort. First time skiers (complete beginners) should pre-book ‘Complete Beginners’ skiers or snowboarders packs so that everything is reserved and arranged for your arrival in resort. Some resorts charge a deposit for ‘handsfree keycard’ lift passes. We include this charge in the pre-book price unless stated otherwise. The deposit amount can usually be obtained by returning the pass directly to the lift pass office at the end of your holiday. Ski Inclusive A Ski Inclusive pack includes the following: Flights, Overseas Transfers, Accommodation as booked, Lift Pass (local) and Ski or Board and Boot Hire. Regional flight supplements, room supplements and under-occupancy supplements may apply. Ski Inclusive offers cannot be combined with any other discount and are for new bookings only. Ski Inclusive properties may change without notice, holidays are subject to availability and are not necessarily available on all dates. Complimentary room upgrades Where applicable and unless otherwise stated, offers of free room upgrades shown in the brochure will be determined by availability when you travel and your room will be allocated on arrival at the accommodation. If your room is upgraded, please note that this will not necessarily be to the next highest category featured in our brochure as we do not sell all room types at all hotels. 308 Ability Level Skier Snowboarder Complete Beginner Level 0 You have never skied before You have never snowboarded before Beginner Level 1 You can ski in a cautious snowplough You are able to side slip on toe or heel side, sliding to the right and to the left on nursery slopes Intermediate Level 2 You can link snowplough turns with speed, control and bring skis together parallel at the end of the turn on green and blue runs You are able to complete basic turns on heel and toe side that are connected with a traverse on green and easy blue runs Intermediate Level 3 You use parallel turns on smooth blue runs and would like to improve your parallel turns on more challenging terrain, including bumps, red and easy black runs You are able to comfortably link turns with rhythm and flow, with no traverse on either heel or toe side on all blue and easy red runs Advanced Level 4 You ski with a controlled parallel stance, maintaining rhythm and speed control on all runs You are able to comfortably link turns on most terrain and in all snow conditions, including the terrain parks Pre-book your lift pass, equipment & tuition with us to save £s NEI_SKI_1314_1ST_307_313.qxp:Layout 1 8/11/12 10:19 Page 309 Important holiday information Proof of age/relationship Please note that in some instances proof of age may be required to be shown either to the Neilson representative or to the lift pass office staff before a special price lift pass can be obtained. This usually applies to younger children who may be eligible for a free lift pass and reduced price passes for older skiers. Additionally some special offers are strictly for families only and proof of relationship and shared residence may be required. Ski or snowboard tuition We offer pre-bookable group ski and snowboard lessons in almost all our resorts. Lesson days and durations vary so always check the relevant ski pack panel for details. Complete beginners ‘First Timers’ Book the ‘Complete Beginners’ Ski or Board Packs to ensure you will have everything you need - the correct lift pass, equipment and tuition will all be reserved and everything will be arranged for you, ready when you arrive in resort. It also represents great value for money - cheaper than booking these items individually or waiting until you get to resort. Please note that Complete Beginner, (‘Level 0’) packages are strictly for complete beginners. A supplement may be charged to participants considered too experienced for complete beginners classes to cover additional lift pass and tuition costs. Private transfers At some properties you can opt to pre-book a private transfer to take you from the airport to your accommodation. This is priced for a return journey, per taxi (standard saloon size car or minibus may be provided) with a maximum of 3 people per taxi. Luggage space may be limited with 4 people on board which may result in an extra taxi being required when you get to resort – any charge for this will be passed on to you. In many overseas countries, taxis may not automatically equip themselves with child or baby seats. If a child or baby seat is required this must be requested at time of booking if the service provider charges extra for this then this additional cost will be passed onto you. 14. Any person who acts as the leader of a group (whether or not they travel on the holiday), shall be the 'lead name' with all the usual responsibilities associated with that role as set out in our booking conditions. In addition, the group leader shall be responsible for confirming all travelling passenger details to either the Travel Agent (when booking through an ABTA member agent) or directly to our Reservations department. They will be responsible for paying all sums that are payable in respect of the booking as a whole (including any amendment/cancellation charges), and for passing on accurately and in full to travelling passengers any and all information issued by the Travel Agent or us, including, but not limited to, passing on copies of our confirmation invoices and a copy of our booking conditions. 15. Low deposit for groups - reduced holiday deposits may be available for European charter flight based holidays only for a limited time after which a higher deposit amount will apply which will be advised to you at the time of booking. Special arrangements for groups Groups requiring special arrangements relating to flights (extra baggage, equipment etc), or in resort (extra room hire, transport etc) must be aware that any special arrangements are subject to availability and may incur an extra charge which will be passed back to the group for payment. Child discounts To make your family budget go as far as possible we offer some great savings for children. At many properties a child discount will be available in certain room types, stated as a % off the adult price in the price panel. Look out for extra savings when you book! Europe - fantastic savings for children A discount or special price is available to children in most properties when sharing a room with a minimum of two full fare paying adults. Child discounts or special prices apply to children up to and including 11 years old, as specified. The level of discount available off the basic price is up to 45%. In larger rooms a minimum occupancy of full fare paying adults may apply before a child discount is applicable. NEILSON CHALETS 25% Group booking conditions SELECTED EUROPEAN HOTELS up to 45% These conditions are in addition to the Booking Conditions shown on pages 315-317. All group bookings are ‘subject to availability’ which includes respecting the right of hoteliers to decline single-sex groups or groups above a certain size. 1. All offers are subject to availability and the number of group offers per departure may be limited or withdrawn without prior notice. Group offers may be limited to selected properties / apartments in our brochure. Please ask for details. 2. Children do not count towards group bookings. 3. Free child places cannot be used in conjunction with group discounts. 4. Free places cover the basic holiday price current at the time of booking. Supplements for meals, under-occupancy, room facilities & insurance are excluded. 5. The group must book exactly the same holiday at the same time. We may allow large groups to travel from different airports on application, in which case the free place will apply to the cheapest holiday. 6. Groups travelling for any duration other than 7 nights are on request. 7. Free places will be calculated on the final number of full paying adults travelling. Cancellation of group numbers may result in the loss of free places/group discount. 8. Free places for groups above 30 will be on request. Splitting large groups into smaller ones is not permitted. 9. Group offers are not available on scheduled flights, self drive. Eurostar services or accommodaion only bookings. 10. All passengers must pay the deposit. A Group option can be held on brochured holidays for 7 days while deposits are collected, however this is dependent on availability. 11. All passengers’ names must be supplied 10 weeks before departure or at the time of booking (with deposits). Subsequent name changes will incur an amendment fee. When supplying passengers’ names, you must at the same time also confirm your rooming list - by this we mean who is to share a room with who. If you fail to do so, we will allocate rooms and cannot accept any liability if these arrangements do not meet with your approval. 12. Names may be required immediately at time of booking on some departure dates or destinations. 13. Group offers may not be combined with any other discounts or offers. SELECTED EUROPEAN APTS & CABINS up to 10% There are a limited number of free child places available at selected properties when travelling on a charter flight. These places are obviously popular and go quickly, so make sure you book early. Please note that the second child price applicable at the time of booking still applies if the first child has a free place. A free child means you benefit from not paying the applicable child price for the first child. (The current selling price for that child applies if no free child places are left or you have the option to choose to pay for the child in order to benefit from other savings or discounts). Just ask your travel agent, phone us direct or visit our website to check the current child prices. Please see below for the child price conditions. Special discount for 2-5yrs In some hotels younger children from 2–5 years old may receive an additional discount. Where this is the case it is stated in the property highlights panel. The extra discount is in addition to the % discount off the adult price shown in the price panel. High season dates are: 29 Dec-4 Jan, 9-22 Feb: Mid season dates are: 22-28 Dec, 5-11 Jan: Low season applies to all other dates.Please note that unlike many of our competitors, our discounts and special prices are available all season and children do count towards occupancy in our apartments in Europe. Be sure to factor this in when comparing prices. 3. Third and subsequent children pay the adult price. 4. Children qualifying for a free holiday are entitled to the basic accommodation and flights free but must pay for any optional meal arrangements and optional accommodation supplements (for example superior room supplements); all other children must pay ANY accommodation or other supplements in full. 5. Subject to availability, one free child place can be selected for each room booked. If there are no free child places left on your chosen holiday, the first child pays the standard child price. 6. Children count towards apartment occupancy levels, EXCEPT when allocated a free place. 7. Infants under two years of age on the day of RETURN pay £39 (short haul) and £49 (medium haul) charter flights subject to change. For Scheduled flights, charges vary dependent on the airline, type of fare selected and the destination. Infant charges will be confirmed at the time of booking. These charges are for an infant sitting on an adults lap. See also Carriage of Infants (Your Flight section) for more detail’s. Extra services required, cots, etc., (opposite) must be paid to the apartment/hotel locally. See section on Infants for further details. 8. The full adult deposit must be paid for all children except infants. In the case of a free child place, the deposit will be deducted from the final holiday invoice. 9. Child ages you provide must be applicable to the relevant date of return. If a child is subsequently older on the date of return than originally specified at the time of booking, this may mean they no longer qualify for a child price and you will have to pay the full adult fare, plus any admin fees, before the party can travel. Please check carefully with your travel agent or us before booking. 10.Free child places are limited in number, subject to availability and can be withdrawn at any time. 11.Free child places cannot be combined with any other discount and are only available on charter flight holidays. 12.These conditions apply to Neilson charter holidays only. Infants See also ‘Carriage of infants’ on page 303. Please note that in each property description we state the maximum number of occupants a room or apartment can accommodate; this number can include ONE infant unless otherwise stated. If you need to book more than one infant into a room, please contact us before booking, as enquiries will need to be made with the hotel/apartment manager. For any bookings made which exceed this stated maximum and for which we are advised cannot be accommodated, we reserve the right to pass on the cost of any additional/different rooms/apartments required to accommodate the booking. Please let us know when you book if you need a cot. You may have to pay a charge locally for this and any other special services or facilities you require. When you arrive, you should check that the cot is satisfactory. If not, you must let your representative or hotel know immediately. Certain hotels, resorts, tours and excursions may not be suitable for children or infants. You should read the brochure description carefully to make sure that they meet your needs. Our Reservations team will also be able to advise you if you are still unsure. Childcare & children’s ski school Resort, Ski-School & Hotel-Run Childcare Facilities BABYCARE CRÈCHE SKI KINDERGARTEN Child price conditions These conditions are in addition to the Booking Conditions shown on pages 315-317: 1. Children paying a child price, must share accommodation with at least two persons paying the full adult brochure price. (In some cases larger room types may require additional people to pay full adult price to be eligible for a child price. For example, some family rooms sleeping 6, may require up to 4 people to pay adult prices to be eligible for a child price). 2. Child discounts apply for children up to and including 11 years of age, unless otherwise stated in the hotel description, and apply to the basic adult price for air holidays. In the case of train or self drive holiday discounts or supplements apply after the child percentage discount amount has been applied. Visit neilson.co.uk see your travel agent or call us on 0845 070 3460 CHILD SKI SCHOOL Non skiing childcare for babies and toddlers, usually between ages of 8 weeks-3yrs. Non-skiing childcare for toddlers, usually from 2yrs upwards. Outdoor ski and play for younger children, usually in a dedicated area - less structured than group lessons, normally an introduction to snow from a ‘play and slide’ perspective. Often has an indoor area for warm up and rest. Ski schools which run group & private lessons for children with more formal, snow based tuition. When travelling as a family on a skiing holiday you may wish to consider using some of the locally operated babycare, crèche & kindergarten facilities to free up some time for yourselves. The resort information pages & our website include basic details showing where there was a facility operating during W11/12 and of the approximate age range(s) catered for. We are unable to accept responsibility or give any guarantee for the standard of the facilities and qualifications of personnel employed at resort, ski-school or hotel run kids 309 NEI_SKI_1314_1ST_307_313.qxp:Layout 1 8/11/12 10:20 Page 310 Important holiday information Hotels and hotel rooms 2-4yrs 5-12yrs NEILSON STAFF RATIO 1:4 1:8 SUITABLE FOR Non skiing & skiing kids Skiing kids SESSIONS AVAILABLE 6 full days 09:00-16:30 6 days 09:00-16:30 when not in ski school†† LUNCH & SUPERVISION* Included Included Included INDOOR PLAY Yes Yes Yes OUTDOOR PLAY Yes Yes Yes SKIING No Yes (when pre-booked) Yes† SKI SCHOOL DROP OFF/PICK UP No Yes Yes EVENING CARE Sleep club 2 x evenings, Sleep club 2 x evenings, 2 x evening activities, 7-10pm payable locally 7-10pm payable locally payable locally RESORT Neilson Hotel Aalborg, Les Deux Alpes, France – pages 116-117 OPEN ALL SEASON Yes Yes Yes * Parents to provide nappies and wipes. † Ski school must be booked and paid for separately, see page 238. †† Includes ski school pick up & drop off. CHILD AGE RANGE 4-23 months* 1:2 Non skiing kids 6 full days 09:00-16:30 CLUB PRICES 6 full days SLEEP CLUB x 2 evenings £250 £20 per evening, siblings £10 £220 £20 per evening, siblings £10 £190† Socials x 2 - local payment depending on activity Please note that the prices above for the basic club participation only. Any lift pass/ski/board equipment/tuition to be booked separately. † If your child does not join ski school lessons a supplement of £65 per week is payable for all day supervision. clubs, nor can we guarantee the accuracy of the information given. Inclusion of this information in our brochure / website does not mean that Neilson recommends the facility or has undertaken Health & Safety checks. Club(s) may not meet standards of similar facilities in the UK and you are strongly advised to remember that local standards and requirements in respect of such clubs may differ overseas. You must ensure that you are completely satisfied with the facilities and staff providing this service when you are in resort and before you enroll your child/children into the club and into the clubs care. Any prices and durations quoted are for guidance only. Children & Ski School Please note that while many ski schools advertise that they accept children, some from as young as 3 or 4 years old, it is the ski school instructors’ assessment of the physical & learning capacity of the individual child that determines whether they are able to join for the full duration of the advertised programme. Single parent savers When there is only one parent travelling, Neilson offers a Single Parent Saver on all properties throughout the season. Your child (aged 2-11 years on return travel date) will receive a 10% discount off the adult price when sharing a twin bedded hotel room with you. Offer limited to one child per adult booking and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer or discount. Travelling to Austria with children Single parents or other adults travelling to Austria alone with children should be aware that Austria requires documentary evidence of parental responsibility (e.g. consent letter) before allowing lone parents / adults to enter, or, in some cases, to leave the country with children. UK & Austrian authorities recommend carrying a letter of consent (downloadable form the British Embassy at ukinaustria.fco.gov.uk) as a precautionary measure. For further information please contact the Austrian Embassy or visit the FCO website. Entertainment facilities These differ from hotel to hotel, so please read the descriptions carefully. A charge may be made locally for entertainment and the use of some hotel facilities. They are not necessarily included in the holiday price. Not all hotels provide entertainment, and the quality at those that do will vary. All sports and leisure activities are naturally subject to availability. The hotel may have a system restricting the number of times and hours of use of certain facilities to ensure all customers can enjoy them. Whenever we are aware of this it is clearly stated. You may be required to pay a deposit for some sports or leisure facilities which will be refunded upon the return of the undamaged equipment. Some hotels may have additional conditions before refunding the deposit (e.g. not to exceed the time limit of usage). If applicable, guests will be informed on arrival. Age and height restrictions may be applied by the hotel for certain activities and facilities. These are applied locally for the wellbeing of all customers and full details will be supplied 310 when you arrive at your accommodation. For safety reasons some sports are not available to younger children or children without adult supervision. You should ensure all activities you wish to take part in are covered by your own holiday insurance. Some activities may be considered to be hazardous pursuits by some insurance companies. Your accommodation Accommodation can, at times, have a lively atmosphere, and facilities and entertainment may vary according to the mix and ages of guests in residence. Official ratings and our ratings Ratings systems are an attempt to give a guide to the overall quality of properties. The official ratings are given by the authorities in the country, and do tend to give a fair impression of relative standards within that country. However, different countries have different standards; so don’t assume that a 3-star hotel in one country is equivalent to a 3-star hotel in another. Neilson ratings We have compiled a rating system for Neilson. This is based on the particular characteristics of each property, taking into account their facilities, general atmosphere, plus the distances to resort facilities and ski area. Our rating system enables us to give a useful reflection of property types in all countries. The nature of these ratings is subjective. They are compiled using the opinions of experienced Neilson employees in addition to a scoring-based system. Standards do vary, so you should not expect a nnn rated property in Bulgaria to be of the same standard as a nnn rated property in Canada. Slopeside Some of the accommodation featured in this brochure will enable competent skiers or boarders to ski to/from a property. Where this is possible, we place the word ‘Slopeside’ in the coloured bar underneath the property description. We have only added this where we are confident, combining normal snow conditions with past experience, that it is possible. Sadly, it cannot be guaranteed due to snow conditions and Neilson cannot therefore accept responsibility if conditions or your ability preclude you from being able to do so. Accommodation and room types When we mention room types in our brochure, in most cases you can expect to receive a room similar to that described below. Please note however that whilst room categories in different hotels may have the same or similar names, the criteria for their classification is likely to differ, as these are the names the hotels use and they do not have standard definitions. We do not always sell all room types at all hotels. When you make a booking we will pass on the details of the room type you have selected to the hotelier, but it may not always be possible for them to provide a room type/configuration exactly as booked. The following sections provide some additional information on accommodation and room types. In all types of accommodation described below, if there are less than the maximum number of persons in your own party, the room type may contain less than the maximum number of beds indicated. The term ‘hotel’ is used to describe various types of accommodation and does not necessarily distinguish between local classifications such as ‘aparthotel’, ‘holiday village’, ‘holiday complex’. Hotel/Motel chains: sometimes hotels change the name of the chain through which they are marketed. If such a change occurs at your hotel you will only be advised if we believe it involves a significant change in facilities or standards. Room information • Twin and Double Rooms - a ‘Twin’ is a room with two single beds and a ‘Double’ is a room with a double bed. A double bed may be two single beds with double bedding. • Austrian Twin - the term ‘Austrian Twin’ is used to describe two separate mattresses and bed linen on one large bed frame with a common headboard. • Scandinavian Twin - Scandinavian twins refer to beds with two separate matresses and two separate bases sharing a common headboard - these can be made up as a double or two twins. • Scandinavian Bunk - double bed with wall-mounted single bed above. • Single Rooms - a ‘Single’ or ‘Twin for sole use’ is a room with one or two single beds. Single rooms are often smaller and may not have the same facilities or be of the same general standard as normal twin rooms. • Rooms sleeping up to 5 people - room layout may consist of up to 5 separate beds or a combination of double, twin bunk, camp beds, sofa beds or rollaway beds. In some hotels these ‘extra’ beds may be only suitable for a child, but in other hotels there may be a reduction available for the additional adults sharing the room (see price panel for details). These rooms may not be any larger than standard twin or double rooms so space is likely to be limited and the room may be cramped. Where rooms do accept extra beds, some hotels may require an additional local charge to be paid which can vary by destination, please ask for details when you book. In most cases, extra beds for children are only suitable for children aged 12 and under. Though we will do our best to help, please note that we cannot guarantee the room configuration or type of beds that you will be provided with. Please note that if you book a multi-bedded room but your party is less than the number shown then the hotelier may allocate you a room with less beds when you check in. • Suites/Junior Suites: A Suite and Junior Suite usually contain a lounge/living area. A Suite is likely to contain a separate sleeping area whereas in a Junior Suite the sleeping area may not be completely separate. Room layouts can vary by destination. Our descriptions of Suites/Junior Suites usually state the number of persons who can occupy the room type (e.g. 2-4 persons). If there are less than the maximum number of persons in your own party, the room type may contain less than the maximum number of beds. • Annexes - Annexe accommodation will not necessarily be attached to the main part of the hotel or apartments. This may mean guests must walk to and from the main building. Where rooms are located in an annexe, this is mentioned in the property description. • Meal service - Breakfast will be of the ‘continental’ type unless stated otherwise. In certain hotels, extended or “English” style breakfasts are available and may be at an extra charge. Many hotels are not necessarily used to catering for special diets, and therefore, if you have specific requirements, you may find that the choice is limited. This is particularly true of vegetarian meals. Vegetarians are advised to consider a self-catering or chalet holiday. If you are on half or full board it is possible that you may lose a meal due to your own particular flight times. We will include the most up to date information about meal service arrangements in our accommodation descriptions but occasionally arrangements will change. • Baths may not always be full size and showers may not always have a shower tray or a curtain. • Local Functions - many hotels can be used for weddings, conventions or local celebrations, even the smaller ones. Hotels will always try to ensure that guests are not inconvenienced but some disturbances may occur. Studios and apartments Studios - A ‘Studio’ is one room living-come-sleeping accommodation, usually with divan/sofa beds, basic kitchen facilities (usually two cooking rings and a fridge) and a shower room. Apartments - An apartment is self-contained with one or more bedrooms with twin/double beds, basic kitchen facilities (usually two cooking rings and fridge) and shower room. One-bedroom apartments usually have a separate living area. Apartment descriptions indicate the number of adults who can occupy an apartment (e.g. 2-4 persons). This Pre-book your lift pass, equipment & tuition with us to save £s NEI_SKI_1314_1ST_307_313.qxp:Layout 1 8/11/12 10:20 Page 311 Important holiday information Neilson chalets and lodges SERVICE INCLUDED OR AVAILABLE AT A SUPPLEMENT. Special dietary requirements n/a Comfort = ■ @ £26 per person Comfort+ = ● @ £20 per person Service+ = ▲ @ £32 per person Wi-Fi Included Local charge Local charge Included in reception area Bed linen Included Included Included Included Beds made on arrival Included ■ Towels Included ● ● ▲ ▲ Included Included £49 per week available locally Approx. £49 per week available locally Included ● ▲ Available locally Available locally Available locally Free if pre-booked includes a baby bath £31 - includes a baby bath Extra pre-bookable services Included. ■ = extra set & n/a Varies - see property descriptions Included Available locally Available locally midweek charge TV Included End of stay cleaning included (except kitchen & washing up) Included Cleaning kit Baby cot, linen & highchair Included ■ + midweek clean Included Free if pre-booked * £39 - includes Also includes baby bath, changing mat, changing mat & & pushchair pushchair at selected properties ● £19 * Not available in Avoriaz (Res. Antares, Electra & Tilia), Chamonix (La Rivière) & Méribel (Les Ravines). These properties include standard baby kit. Please note: Charges are per person not per apartment & the number of pre-booked service packages (i.e Comfort or Comfort+) must be equal to the number of occupants in the apartment. will not always mean that at the time of your stay the apartment will contain the maximum number of beds, if there is less than the maximum number of people in your own party. Beds in the living area may be of the folding type or sofa beds. Cleaning - Is usually carried out prior to your arrival. No additional cleaning will take place during your stay. If you are staying in France you can pre-purchase a special service package available at a supplement. See Reservations system for details. Important: You must leave the apartment in the condition that you found it. Failure to do so will result in a cleaning charge being made by the relevant property management and deducted from your deposit. Cabine - Is generally a sleeping area that is not fully enclosed and therefore cannot be described as a complete bedroom. It often has bunk beds and no windows. Common in France. Linen charges - We try to ensure that bed linen is included in all apartment holidays offered in this brochure. However in certain apartments bed linen and towels are available as extras (i.e. not included in the basic holiday price). Where this is the case it will be stated in the individual descriptions and you may take your own. Please note that beds are not normally made up for your arrival unless stated. towards occupancy levels. Children do count towards occupancy unless travelling on a free place. Our accommodation prices are based on at least two adults sharing. We do not always have the space to show under occupancy supplements for the single traveller for accommodation which is priced on a two adults sharing but please contact us for further information and supplements where applicable (see also ‘Single Supplements’above). Accommodation layout Check out Large hotel complexes may have low-rise wings or a number of accommodation blocks spread across large areas. These may be separate from and a few minutes walk to the main reception and restaurant areas. Views from a balcony/terrace If you would like a specific view, please be aware that rooms described as having a mountain or valley view may not have a full view because of trees or buildings blocking the view. Single supplements If a single person occupies a double room they will usually be asked to pay extra (a single supplement). Hotels price their rooms as doubles and they do not reduce the rates if they are occupied by a single person. The costs to the hotel of providing the room – heating, lighting, cleaning etc. are the same regardless of how many people occupy that room. Hotel design may mean that single rooms are smaller and may have different facilities to standard rooms. Single rooms are often smaller, may not have a balcony and may not be of the same general standard as normal twin rooms. While there is normally a supplement for these rooms the overall cost will usually be less than when a single person occupies a double room. The prices we charge reflect the costs of under occupancy of the rooms contracted to us by the hotel, we do not mark up these supplements. Under occupancy supplements The prices in this brochure are usually based on a specific number of adults sharing the accommodation as stated on each price panel. If there are fewer adults sharing the accommodation than the number stated, supplements will have to be paid. These supplements are called “under occupancy” supplements and are indicated at the bottom of each price panel where relevant. The under occupancy supplements shown are ‘from’ amounts, per person per night, and may vary depending on date of travel. Unless otherwise stated, under occupancy supplements are payable per person per night. Please note that infants do not count How many nights are spent in your accommodation? Your check-in time and departure (check-out) time, is likely to be determined by the times of your flights. If you leave the UK on a night flight between 00:01 and 04:00 hours, the day of departure is deemed to be the previous day. In some cases, depending on your flight times, you may arrive at your accommodation in the early hours or during the morning. Your accommodation should be immediately available to you, and in this case this is classed as the first night of your holiday. If you leave the UK after 04:00 hours, arriving in resort the same day, your accommodation will usually be available from between 12 noon and 4pm. In all cases, delays may occur with check-in whilst your room is prepared for you. Guests are normally required to check-out of rooms at the internationally recognised time of 12 noon on the last day of the holiday. However, there are some areas where a 10am vacating time is operated. On occasions there may be several hours to wait before the departure of your flight home. In such cases a room may be made available for changing and storing luggage. Sometimes hotels will let you keep your room but they are entitled to make a charge. This is not normally possible with apartments. If you are on Half Board, Full Board or All Inclusive it is possible that you may lose a meal owing to your own particular flight times. Accommodation maintenance Certain accommodation featured in this brochure is operational all year round. From time to time it will be necessary for certain facilities to be withdrawn for general maintenance purposes. Water and electricity suppliers may be interrupted whilst this essential maintenance is undertaken. Cleaning The standard and frequency of cleaning and linen change can vary from resort to resort and property to property depending on general standards in resort and the rating of your accommodation. Other guests We do not have exclusive use of all properties featured in this brochure. It is possible, therefore, that there may be guests from other countries and of mixed age groups at your accommodation. Many hotels we feature do operate corporate conference facilities and there may be occasions where business meetings are taking place during your stay. TV Channels Many hotels we feature have satellite or cable TV shown in rooms, we recommend that you use the same care and supervision with children watching TV as you would at home. Some channels may be of an adult nature. Where televisions are advertised we cannot guarantee the availability of English-speaking channels. Visit neilson.co.uk see your travel agent or call us on 0845 070 3460 Our hosts also have the advantage of being flexible in their meal preparations. If you have any special dietary requirements, be it a vegetarian option or a special favourite for the kids, we will do our best (within reason!) to accommodate you (even if the dietary requirement is egg and chips!). It is also possible to pre-book a special dietary pack for £35 per person. This pack is suitable for ceoliacs, those requiring a gluten-free diet and those with specific allergies. Visit neilson.co.uk/chalets for more details. Children in chalets Children under 12 years old are welcome in all of our chalets but only when part of a group booking the whole chalet. Our experienced chalet hosts endeavour to provide balanced, healthy menus for younger guests, or simply smaller portions of what Mum and Dad are eating. It really is down to what your family would prefer, and this goes for meal times too. Please Note: In chalets or cabins without 3 or 4 bedded rooms, we will allow one discounted child place in units with 8-13 beds, or two discounted child places in units with 14 beds or more. Children cannot receive a child discount in conjunction with free places. Discount applies to the basic holiday price only, all other supplements and charges still apply. Further information and booking conditions can be found on pages 315-317. Children of all ages are accepted in all Neilson Lodges & Neilson-run hotels on all dates. Things to note • Smoking is not permitted inside any of these properties. • A limited reception service is provided, usually between 08.00 and 09.30 and from 16.30 to 18.00. In addition to these times staff are on hand to provide assistance. • Room service is not available. • Neilson-run hotels have their own bars. Local licensing laws prohibit the consumption of duty-free and bought-in alcohol in the public areas. • In Chalets, footwear is to be indoor shoes or slippers only so please make sure you pack something comfortable. • Our Neilson-run hotel does not feature in local Tourist Office publications and are not subject to official classification. This is because they are generally leased by us for the entire season and run exclusively for our guests. • Large multi-bedded rooms in chalets which are significantly more spacious than others in the same unit have been priced on the basis of 3 or 4 people sharing. This means that underoccupancy supplements will apply if just 2 people book these rooms. • Bedrooms with two distinct sleeping areas are priced on the maximum occupancy of the room; underoccupancy supplements will apply. Spa & Wellness Admission & Opening Times An admission fee may be payable and treatments cost extra. Generally opening hours are between 10:00 & 18:00 most days and close for lunch anywhere between the hours of 12:00 & 14:00. You are recommended to visit the centre soon after you arrive in resort to arrange convenient times for treatment(s). Health Although spa treatments are regarded as safe they are not always suitable for everyone. Conditions such as high blood pressure, poor circulation, deep vein thrombosis & heart disease may not be conducive to spa treatments. Similarly if you have recently had an operation, are pregnant or taking medication, you may not be able to have some treatments. We recommend you check with your GP if any of the above or similar applies and you wish to undergo spa treatments. Spa - general rules Many Centres stipulate some or all of the following: • Arrive with plenty of time before your treatment is due to start • Do not bring valuables, as management cannot be held responsible for loss or damage • Mobile telephones are not permitted • Where treatments involve water, guests are expected to bring their own swimwear • Certain treatments may include a medical consultation as part of the treatment; this is to ensure you do not suffer from any medical conditions that may be incompatible • Drink plenty of water before and after hot tub/sauna/steam room visits • Children under 18 are not usually accepted at spa centres • Some hotels may restrict access to pools for younger children. 311 NEI_SKI_1314_1ST_307_313.qxp:Layout 1 8/11/12 10:20 Page 312 Important holiday information Nudity Please note that nudity is the norm in most saunas & steam rooms in Europe & Scandinavia and sometimes within the spa centre as a whole. Clothing/swimwear inhibits circulation and may overheat the skin in saunas etc and synthetic fabrics can breed bacteria; for this reason you may be requested to remove either your clothing or yourself from these facilities by concerned fellow users or staff. Before you go Health Precautions Health facilities, hygiene and disease risks vary worldwide. You should take health advice about your specific needs as early as possible. Sources of information include the following websites: fco.gov.uk, www.hpa.org.uk and www.nathnac.org, your General Practitioner or a specialist clinic. Whilst many Western European and North American destinations currently have no compulsory inoculation requirements, advice about destinations can change. Customers travelling to worldwide destinations are recommended to seek advice from the sources mentioned above and, where recommended, obtain vaccinations or tablets for protection. If you are visiting a European Union (EU) country you should obtain a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) and take it with you when you travel. The EHIC can be obtained free of charge by completing an application form available from main Post Offices and from www.dh.gov.uk/travellers. Please note, the EHIC is in addition to Travel Insurance, not instead of it. Travel Advice The Foreign and Commonwealth Travel Advice Unit issues and frequently updates advice for those travelling outside the UK. The advice includes general warnings and specific information for the benefit of travellers. Ask your travel agent for details of any current advice for the country or countries which you plan to visit when you book your holiday. You are also advised to check this information before you go by accessing the latest Travel Advice on www.fco.gov.uk, alternatively e-mail [email protected] or telephone the Foreign Office Travel Advice Unit on 0845 850 2829. Travellers with reduced mobility or disability • Overseas Accommodation and Overseas Transport Arrangements - The majority of overseas accommodation, overseas transport (including transfers) and other holiday services provided overseas are not equipped to cater for the needs of many disabled holidaymakers. Furthermore the natural terrain and the layout of some resorts can sometimes make life difficult for wheelchair users. It is therefore important, if you have any disability, that the appropriate enquiries are made about the suitability of particular accommodation, resorts, transport and services, and that you are fully satisfied you have made the correct choice before you book and confirm your holiday. Please note: if special arrangements need to be made for you an extra charge may have to be levied, this may be the case either before you go or when you arrive in resort. We cannot be held responsible if you fail to tell us about special needs/requirements that will affect your holiday experience and this means we will not compensate you. For customers who require support or advice prior to booking, please contact our Special Assistance Team on 0800 107 3409 who will contact our suppliers for further information. • At the Airport and Onboard Your Flight - If you have a disability, reduced mobility or special need that you require assistance with, either at the airport or onboard the aircraft please let us know as soon as possible. We would like to know if you have a preexisting medical condition or recent injury, so that we can answer any questions and ensure there are no concerns about your fitness to fly. Please speak to your travel agent or call our Special Assistance Team on 0800 107 3409 and we will pass details onto the relevant airline and airport. If you do not request this in advance the airlines and airports cannot guarantee that this service will be available, as there is a limit on the number of passengers with reduced mobility and the number of wheelchairs the airline is able to assist on the day with no pre-notification. We recommend you contact us at the earliest opportunity, we need information regarding your need for assistance no later than 48 hours before departure, so we can inform the responsible Managing Body at the airport(s) and your airline. If your booking is made later, the airport/airline will make all reasonable efforts to provide the service required but cannot guarantee that this can be done successfully. Please let us know if you need any assistance at the airport or onboard the flight, such as, if you use a wheelchair, if you are visually impaired or require use of oxygen. Also, please note that if you are not self-reliant (capable of taking care of all your physical needs independently in-flight), a carer must travel with any passenger who does not meet the DFT (Department for Transport) code of practice definition of self-reliance. The carer must purchase a ticket at the same time. You can find more information about travelling with a disability or reduced mobility on our website: www.thomascook.com. If you are flying with Thomas Cook Airlines you can also refer to www.thomascookairlines.co.uk. Alternatively please discuss your requirements with your travel agent or contact our Special Assistance Team direct on 0800 107 3409 and we will be pleased to help you. (This is a dedicated number for special assistance enquiries and we are unable to transfer calls to other departments). Currency and money Most people travel with cash, traveller’s cheques and a credit card, usually because it’s the safest, most time and cost-efficient way of carrying travel money. Visa or Mastercard are probably the most widely accepted cards abroad, so it is best to decide which you wish to take and leave any others behind in a safe, secure place. Take most of your paper money in traveller’s cheques - your credit card may give you access to local currency, but it could be at a high rate of interest and exchange rates may be poor. You should take some local currency so you don’t have to worry about exchanging money when you arrive. You might need some cash for a taxi or tipping. Always make use of hotel safety deposit boxes, and wherever in the world you’re travelling - never carry around large amounts of cash. Passports and visas Names: at the time of booking please ensure you supply your first name and surname, (as they appear on your passport) as both of these must be stated on your flight ticket. This will reduce confusion and delays at check-in, especially when travelling to the USA. It is anticipated that customers could face more queries and delays as more countries introduce Advance Passenger Information systems. You may not be able to travel and insurance may be invalid if the name on your passport and travel documents don’t match. If, after booking a holiday but before travelling, any member of your party changes their name, e.g. as a result of getting married, we must be notified immediately so that we can make the necessary changes to your holiday documentation. Children: are required to have their own passport. The following information applies to British Citizen’s holding a UK passport issued in the UK. Non-British Citizen passport holders or British Citizens holding a UK Passport issued abroad or holders of British Subject Passports should contact the appropriate consulate or embassy for clarification. Please note, both passport and visa regulations can change and you should therefore check with your travel agent or the relevant embassy well in advance of travel. It can often take some time to obtain a visa, so you are advised to apply in plenty of time. Your responsibility: It is the responsibility of passengers to ensure, for the travel to be undertaken, they have valid, acceptable passports, any required visa, any other documentation and, where asked for have submitted advanced passenger information in advance of travel to the tour operator/airline as appropriate. You must be able to meet the entry requirements for both your final destinations and any stop-off points en-route. Passengers without the correct documentation, or who have included incorrect information with any visa application or advanced passenger information submitted may be refused carriage. Airlines and/or Border Control Authorities have absolute discretion over refusals of carriage, departure from or entry into any country. We will hold the passenger entirely responsible in the event they are not approved for travel or where entry to a country is refused due to any failure to satisfy the requirements of the Airline or Border Control Authority. Where entry is refused, fines or other financial penalty may be imposed on or by the airline and the passenger(s) concerned will be required to immediately return to their country of departure. Any passenger who travels without the required passport/visa/other documentation is solely responsible for and must immediately pay all fines, surcharges, other financial penalty, costs (including the cost of their immediate return flight) and any other sums of any description which are incurred or imposed by the airline or incurred by ourselves. This will be the case regardless of whether the lack of correct documentation is spotted at the departure airport. We can accept no liability in this situation and no compensation, expenses, refund or other sum will be paid. Validity: A valid passport is essential when you travel abroad. Although your passport has been issued for 10 years (5 years for children) you should note that some overseas countries have an immigration requirement for a passport to remain valid for a minimum period after the date of entry to that country (typically 6 months). If your passport is in its final year of validity, you are advised to check the requirements of the destination before you make your final travel plans. Travelling with children Single parents or other adults travelling alone with children should be aware that some countries require documentary evidence of parental responsibility before allowing lone parents to enter the country or, in some cases, before permitting the children to leave the country. For further information on exactly what will be required at immigration please check the FCO website or contact the relevant Embassy of the country you are travelling with. How to contact the Passport Service General passport enquiries should be directed to the Identity and Passport Service. Please visit their website: www.direct.gov.uk/passports or telephone: 0300 222 0000 Apply early: If you need to apply for a passport or renew an expired passport, you should do so well in advance of travel and at least four weeks before. (If you are 16 or over and have never had a passport in your own name, you should apply for one at least six weeks before your holiday. The UK passport service has to confirm your identity before issuing your first passport and will ask you to attend an interview in order to protect your identity). Visit www.ips.gov.uk Advanced Passenger Information - API Under the UK Government ‘e-Borders’ scheme, Tour Operators and Airlines are required to collect biographical information contained in the section of your passport that can be read by machine (such as name, passport number). We refer to this as your advance passenger information and will pass this onto the e-Borders programme both prior to your departure from a UK Aiport to an overseas destinations, and on any journey to the UK. We are legally required to collect your advance passenger information – for details visit the UK Border Agency website: IT’S A RESPECT THING Our philosophy is simple really – we love to get out there and do our thing on the mountains. So it’s natural to respect the environment, after all it’s our playground and we want to protect it for future generations. The Travelife initiative is just one way in which we aim to limit the effects these holidays have on the environment. For further information on our Responsible Business Policy TRAVELIFE SUSTAINABLE HOTELS and other initiatives currently being undertaken by Neilson, The European Union has funded this independent initiative please see neilson.co.uk/responsibletravel or email to help tourism businesses work in a sustainable way, [email protected] covering responsibility to the environment, employees and This brochure is also available as a paper-free downloadable local communities. It is supported by the Federation of Tour PDF from our website. You can help too, by recycling it or, Operators in the UK and its members – which include even better, passing it on to a friend when you’re finished! Neilson. We send communications to all our suppliers about initiatives from Travelife and encourage them to adopt the Travelife standards. 312 When you have finished with this brochure please recycle it Pre-book your lift pass, equipment & tuition with us to save £s NEI_SKI_1314_1ST_307_313.qxp:Layout 1 8/11/12 10:20 Page 313 Important holiday information www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk. For some destinations this will be obtained at the airport but for others we will ask you to provide the information at least 7 days before you travel. Please visit website www.thomascookapi.com for information on the latest countries where this applies. If you are flying with a scheduled airline, please visit the airline’s website for details of any Advanced Passenger Information they require. Please also carefully note any instructions about Advanced Passenger Information on your confirmation invoice or tickets. The UK Broder Agency, e-Borders programme is a legal direction to which all transport carriers must comply, failure to provide the required data may result in carriage being denied. Your safety and wellbeing on holiday Your health and safety is of paramount concern to us, especially if children are involved. In addition to monitoring the hygiene and safety standards in all the hotel and apartments that we use, it is appropriate that we bring to your attention the need for you to be careful and to take necessary precautions whilst overseas and we need your help and cooperation with this. We would ask you to pay close attention to the following information, together with any other information we, our agents or suppliers, provide to you before you go, during your flight and when you arrive in your destination and at your hotel. It is most important that you familiarise yourself with this information and any other information you are given or on display, because not only do we want you to have a great holiday but we want you to have a safe holiday. Swimming pools and water features: some of our hotels and apartments welcome local people and other holidaymakers not residing at the property to use the swimming pool and facilities within the accommodation. This can lead to pool areas becoming busy at times, for example sunbathing space and available sunloungers may become limited. Please make use of the pool shower facilities before swimming this helps to prevent any potential infections and helps to keep the pool clean. Many holidaymakers can enjoy slides and flumes. Therefore, we would like to bring your attention to the following important safety information:Hotel's policies on lifeguards and supervision of water slides may vary and qualified lifeguards may not be present at all hotels/apartments or at all times. You should familiarise yourself with the pool, layout, depths and presence of any lifeguards before you or anyone travelling with you uses the facilities. Children must always be supervised by a responsible adult. Age and height restrictions may apply. Avoid swimming into and ensure landing areas are vacated quickly. Some slides and water features will not be suitable for weak swimmers, if you are pregnant or have certain medical conditions. Please check carefully before using the facilities. All notices and pool rules for safe use of the slides and water features must be observed at all times. Slides and facilities may not be operational on all dates throughout the season. Never use the slides or water features when closed. Never use the slides or water features if you have been drinking alcohol. Overseas Safety Standards: Regrettably the safety standards and regulations overseas may not be of the same level that we enjoy in the UK. For instance, the design and height of balconies may differ. The setting and enforcement of local regulations is a matter for the Authorities of the country and the foreign supplier of the services concerned. We are working with hoteliers to improve standards wherever possible. You should familiarise yourself with fire procedures, including emergency exits in your accommodation, the swimming pool(s) area and any unfamiliar cooking appliances. If in doubt, ask your representative or an appropriate member of staff. Children: Children must be supervised by you at all times, especially near water, on balconies or in unfamiliar buildings and surroundings. For safety reasons, it is recommended (and occasionally compulsory) that children up to the age of 14 wear helmets when participating in any piste activity in your ski resort. Helmets are available to hire in the resorts please ask your Neilson representative for details of your nearest equipment hire centre. Stomach Upsets: It is still a relatively common occurrence to suffer gastric illness when travelling abroad and being exposed to a different environment. There are many ways you can reduce the possibility of being affected, such as, not eating undercooked food, avoiding ice in drinks, ensuring you drink plenty of bottled water and avoid over exposure to cold winds and sun. Out and About: Due to rough terrain, uneven surfaces and ice, we recommend that you are extra careful and vigilant when visiting sites of interest and crossing roads. Crimes against people and property are a fact of life throughout the world and you have the same responsibility for your own safety as you do at home. In some places the local police may not be very cooperative or interested when you report a theft or need insurance confirmation so always take care of your property. Your resort Our service We are proud that our Representatives are the best in the business. They are thoroughly trained in making sure that you have a great holiday, added to which they are local experts and their knowledge is at your disposal. They are trained to know when they are not wanted – so if you want to do your own thing while you’re on holiday they’ll be perfectly happy to leave you alone. Our Representatives are always on hand in person or by phone to help sort out any particular problem whilst you are on holiday. If you have a complaint they will need to know about it and will do their best to solve the problem on the spot and minimise any inconvenience. This will also help us to improve the holiday experience for all our customers. There may be times when your Representative is unable to solve a particular problem immediately. While appreciating that this may be upsetting for customers, we do expect our customers to behave in a reasonable manner towards our staff. Consequently, should any customer act in a threatening or intimidatory manner towards our staff, we shall have no hesitation in taking appropriate legal measures. Resorts In low season, resorts can be quiet with some facilities in limited supply, whereas in high season the resort is sure to be full, with facilities in full swing. However, there may be occasions where hoteliers or providers of services withdraw a facility temporarily or otherwise due to lack of demand, especially at the start and at the end of season. Resort development Some of the destinations in this brochure are still being developed and even in more established resorts there is often a possibility of building work taking place. If in our opinion this is likely to affect your booked accommodation, we will tell you at the time of booking or, if you have already booked, you will be contacted before departure if there is time. Please refer to the Booking Conditions, section A5 ‘Circumstances beyond our control’ - page 315. Local information Please note that areas surrounding your holiday accommodation do not form part of your package holiday and have not been inspected. These include for example the pistes, roads and mountains. You are responsible for taking reasonable care for your own safety and the safety of your party. Local events, religious festivities and public holidays are likely to influence the provision of services and facilities within the hotels and around holiday resorts at certain times. To purchase or consume alcohol in USA you must be aged 21 or over. Generally, if you do look under 30 years old you will be asked for ID, so you should always carry photo identification with you that details your date of birth. Sporting activities in resorts We refer to a number of activities within the brochure, these are neither owned or operated by us and we cannot guarantee that they are maintained or operated with the customer's safety in mind. We would ask that you take all reasonable precautions to protect yourself and your party whilst on holiday and would recommend that you only use companies who demonstrate good safety practices. You should ensure activities you wish to take part in are covered by your own holiday insurance. Some activities may be considered to be hazardous pursuits by some insurance companies. General information ABTA - The Travel Association Thomas Cook Tour Operations Ltd and Thomas Cook Scheduled Tour Operations Ltd are both members of ABTA with membership numbers V6896 & V2185. ABTA members help holidaymakers to get the most from their travel and assist them when things do not go according to plan. We are obliged to maintain a high standard of service to you by ABTA’s Code of Conduct. For further information about ABTA, the Code of Conduct and the arbitration scheme available to you if you have a complaint, contact ABTA, 30 Park Street London SE1 9EQ Tel: 0203 117 0500 or look at www.abta.com Early and late season/peak dates During local or national holidays abroad, you may find facilities like ski schools & shops are closed or have limited opening / operating hours. If visiting a specific place is important to you, call your destination’s local tourist office direct. You may find certain facilities, such as restaurants or nightclubs, closed during your stay, perhaps for redecoration. These closures may affect facilities in your accommodation as well as in the resort, especially early and late in the season. At the beginning and end of the season some ski lifts may not be open and ski and public bus services may not be fully functional. If you are free to travel at any time and not tied to school holidays we would recommend that you avoid peak dates such as half term as many resorts are extremely busy. Financial Protection When you buy an ATOL protected air package or flight from us you will receive a confirmation invoice from us (or via our authorised agent through which you booked) confirming your arrangements and your protection under our Air Travel Organiser’s Licence numbers 1179 and 0606. In the unlikely event of our insolvency, the CAA will ensure that you are not stranded abroad and will arrange to refund any money you have paid to us for an advance booking. For further information visit the ATOL website at www.atol.org.uk. Where you book a package holiday from our brochure/website which does not include a flight, we provide security by way of a bond held by ABTA. If you book arrangements other than a package holiday from us, the financial protection above does not apply. Photography and maps While we make every effort to ensure that the piste/resort maps shown in this brochure are up to date, they are included to give you an indication of the ski area available. We cannot guarantee every lift and run represented. Please check the official resort website or with the lift company in resort. Some of the atmospheric photography shown in conjunction with particular accommodation and resorts advertised in this brochure (e.g. kids playing in the snow or close-up in a pool) was shot on location and not at the accommodation or resort concerned. Thank you to the following suppliers who have provided us with imagery to use within the brochure: Andorra tourist board, Grandvalira, Vallnord, Innovation Norway (and their photography partners), Skistar, Visit Norway, Sweden Image Bank, Süd Tirol tourist board, Travel Alberta and the Canadian Mountain Resorts of: Whistler, Big White, Silver Star, Panorama & Revelstoke. High altitude ski areas We classify any resort with a skiing altitude of 2400m or over or an area which has access to Glacier skiing as ‘High Altitude’. Telephone calls To ensure we consistently deliver excellent customer service, telephone calls to Thomas Cook’s UK offices may be recorded. Calls to 0845 numbers are charged at 5.2p per minute and calls to 0871 numbers are charged at 10.3p per minute (from BT fixed lines, mobile and other providers charges may vary). Smoking Restrictive legislation against smoking in public places is becoming increasingly common in destinations worldwide. You may find your holiday resort operates enforced smoking restrictions in areas including, but not limited to, enclosed public areas such as bars, pubs and restaurants. Fines may be imposed for breaching regulations. To find out more visit the FCO website www.fco.gov.uk Driving Laws, licensing requirements and age limits vary throughout the world. We recommend you check with your travel agent, or the relevant embassy or consulate. Visit neilson.co.uk see your travel agent or call us on 0845 070 3460 313 NEI_SKI_1314_1ST_302_304.qxp:Layout 1 8/11/12 10:31 Page 302 Travel information Charter and scheduled flights You may not like the idea of early flight times, but in our opinion it is well worth the early morning start! It means you get to resort in time to get your equipment fitted and an extra evening to relax and enjoy the après-ski Charter flight options and the effect on your holiday price The flight you choose will influence the price you pay for your holiday. The holiday price will vary: 1. Due to where you fly from, on what day, at what time, and 2. Due to the time of year and the seasonality of your departure date (see table below for travel periods). We have introduced a new holiday pricing system which has changed the way our prices appear on our reservations system, website and confirmation invoices. In the past, to account for the price variations mentioned above, we have included flight supplements on our flight pages which will have also been clearly displayed before booking and on your confirmation invoice. However, due to our new pricing system, the basic holiday price for your chosen accommodation and flight will no longer be broken down on our reservations system, website or on your confirmation invoice. This means all price variations (as detailed above) resulting from the flight you choose will automatically be included in the basic holiday price you are quoted. We know how important it is for you to have an indication of the extra costs that may apply for your chosen flight, therefore on the short haul flight table shown we have included the minimum price increase (previously referred to as flight supplements) you can expect to be included in your holiday price when you book your holiday. These amounts are subject to change, please refer to our website or check with your Holiday Advisor for the latest prices. Extra leg-room seat supplements and other optional services (such as seat selection and internet check-in) are additional to your holiday price. Important information Please read important information on pages 302-314. The holiday price when you book (including any minimum costs indicated on these flight pages based on your flight selection and date of travel), is subject to change. The latest holiday prices will be confirmed at the time of booking. All flight details are subject to change, full flight information can be confirmed by your travel agent or on the holiday booking function on our website. The air holidays and flights in this brochure are ATOL protected by the Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOL numbers are 1179 and 0606. The price of your holiday includes the amount of currently £2.50 per person as part of the ATOL Protection Contribution (APC) we pay to the CAA. Pre-bookable airport services Airport hotels Airport Hotels - take the strain out of your journey and check in to an airport hotel the night before you travel. Rooms are guaranteed for late arrivals, allowing you to travel to the airport the night before, making it a perfect way to start your holiday. UK Airport Parking Pre-book your airport parking and save time & money. We have negotiated competitive rates for on-site or off-site parking at 26 UK airports. Prices include complimentary transfers where the airport terminal is not within walking distance. UK Airport Lounges Relax in an Airport Executive Lounge and start your holiday in comfort where you will enjoy a choice of soft drinks, tea, coffee, alcoholic beverages (excluding champagne), snacks, newspapers and magazines. Generally not available to families with children under the age of 12. For further information on any of the above and to book call 0845 070 3460 or visit www.neilson.co.uk/essentials Financial protection All the flight inclusive holidays in this brochure are financially protected by the ATOL scheme. The price of your holiday includes the amount of £2.50 per person as part of the ATOL Protection Contribution (APC) we pay to the CAA. Our ATOL number is 1179 and 0606. From 1 October 2012, you will be supplied with an ATOL Certificate. Please ask for it and check to ensure that everything you booked (flights, hotels and other services) is listed on it. Please see our booking conditions for further information or for more information about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate go to: 1179 www.caa.co.uk/ATOLCertificate 302 Departure airport Flight Airline Transport Departure Outbound departure Return arrival Flight supplement duration code code day time (UK) time (UK) from FLIGHTS TO LLEIDA (ILD) FOR: Andorra: Arinsal, Pas De La Casa, Soldeu & El Tarter. Spain: Baqueira Beret Belfast 2hrs 50mins Thomas Cook 60D00 Sunday 0605 1235 £25 Birmingham 2hrs 25mins Flybe 20D00 Sunday 0800 1945 £20 Bristol 2hrs 25mins Flybe 10D00 Sunday 1415 1315 £25 Gatwick 2hrs 10mins Thomas Cook 01D00 Sunday 0840 1250 £10 Manchester 2hrs 35mins Thomas Cook 30D00 Sunday 0530 1825 £20 FLIGHTS TO INNSBRUCK (INN) FOR: Austria: Galtür, Mayrhofen, Niederau, Oberau, Obergurgl & Hochgurgl, Seefeld, Sölden, Söll & St Anton Italy: Arabba, Livigno & Selva Birmingham 2 hrs Flybe 20W24 Saturday 1100 1600 £20 Gatwick 1hr 50mins Thomas Cook 01W24 Saturday 0555 1055 £0 Manchester 2hrs 10mins Thomas Cook 30W24 Saturday 0610 1140 £20 FLIGHTS TO SALZBURG (SZG) FOR: Austria: Ellmau, Katschberg, Kitzbühel, Rauris, Saalbach & Hinterglemm, Söll, Zell Am See & Kaprun Birmingham 2hrs 5mins Flybe 20W02 Saturday 1100 1600 £20 Gatwick 1hr 55mins Thomas Cook 01W04 Saturday 0600 1110 £0 Manchester 2hrs 10mins Thomas Cook 30W04 Saturday 0720 1250 £20 FLIGHTS TO SOFIA (SOF) FOR: Bulgaria: Bansko & Borovets Bristol 3hrs 20mins Balkan 10Y94 Saturday 1330 1230 £25 East Midlands 3hrs 20mins Balkan 21Y94 Saturday 1320 1220 £25 Gatwick 3hrs 20mins Thomas Cook 01Y94 Saturday 1300 2030 £0 Manchester 3hrs 20mins Thomas Cook 30Y94 Saturday 1315 2115 £20 FLIGHTS TO CALGARY (YYC) FOR: Canada: Banff, Fernie, Jasper & Lake Louise London Heathrow 8hrs 25mins Air Canada Daily London Heathrow 8hrs 25mins British Airways Daily FLIGHTS TO VANCOUVER (YVR) FOR: Canada: Whistler London Heathrow 9hrs 35mins Air Canada Daily London Heathrow 9hrs 35mins British Airways Daily FLIGHTS TO MONTREAL (YUL) FOR: Canada: Mont Tremblant London Heathrow 6hrs 30mins Air Canada Daily London Heathrow 6hrs 30mins British Airways Daily FLIGHTS TO GENEVA (GVA) FOR: France: Avoriaz, Chamonix, Courchevel, Flaine, Les Menuires, Méribel & Mottaret & Val Thorens Gatwick 1hr 20mins Thomas Cook 01X60 Saturday 0750 1240 £0 Manchester 1hr 35mins Thomas Cook 30X60 Saturday 0725 1250 £20 FLIGHTS TO GRENOBLE (GNB) FOR: France: Alpe d'Huez, Courchevel, La Plagne, Les Arcs, Les Deux Alpes, Les Menuires, Méribel & Mottaret, Tignes, Val d'Isère & Val Thorens Birmingham 1hr 55mins Thomas Cook 20X90 Saturday 0600 1055 £20 Gatwick 1hr 40mins Thomas Cook 01X92 Saturday 0645 1125 £0 Manchester 2hrs 5mins Thomas Cook 30X90 Saturday 0720 1245 £20 FLIGHTS TO TURIN (TRN) FOR: France: Montgenèvre & Serre Chevalier Italy: Bardonecchia, La Thuile, Sauze d'Oulx & Sestrière Birmingham 1hr 35mins Flybe 20R80 Sunday 0535 1055 £10 Gatwick 1hr 20mins Thomas Cook 01R82 Sunday 0625 1110 £0 Manchester 1hr 50mins Thomas Cook 30R80 Sunday 0600 1200 £0 FLIGHTS TO VERONA (VRN) FOR: Italy: Passo Tonale Manchester 2hrs 15mins Monarch 30R22 Saturday 0900 2005 £20 FLIGHTS TO OSLO (OSL) FOR: Norway: Geilo Gatwick 2hrs 15mins Norwegian 01Z14 Sunday 1325 1845 £0 FLIGHTS TO TRONDHEIM (TRD) FOR: Sweden: Åre Gatwick 2hrs 35mins Norwegian 00Z38 Sunday 0710 1400 £0 Changes to our Flight Programme To ensure we can offer you the best choice of flights at the most popular times of the year, we may put additional flights on sale under different flight codes not shown in the flight panel. We cannot guarantee these additional flights will not incur higher holiday prices and details of these prices will be advised on our website or by your Holiday Advisor. When we make available stays of beyond 7 nights, an extra flight charge of up to £399 per person may be applied to cover the expected loss we may incur from unsold seats. Pre-book your lift pass, equipment & tuition with us to save £s NEI_SKI_1314_1ST_302_304.qxp:Layout 1 8/11/12 10:31 Page 303 Travel information Travel information All holidays The timings shown in this brochure are provisional and shown for guidance and will be submitted for approval by UK and overseas scheduling committees. They are therefore subject to alteration and confirmation. Our reservation system will show the latest timings for your flight. The latest schedule will be provided on your tickets and you should check these as soon as they are received. The right is reserved to substitute alternative airlines and/or aircraft at any time. All bookings are subject to the grant of licenses by the Civil Aviation Authority. Transfer times Timings quoted on resort information pages and in the back of this brochure are approximate and may be substantially longer, especially during local school holidays, spring breaks or poor weather conditions. Transfer coaches may be required to wait at airports for other flight arrivals. ‘Short transfers’ are categorised as any journey of 2hrs or under, based on approximate transfer times. need to call our Pre-Travel Services Team, no later than 7 days prior to departure). Celebrating?: If you are celebrating a birthday, or other special occasion, you can pre-order Champagne at a charge. Call our Pre-Travel Services Team no later than 7 days prior to departure. Executive Lounge Facilities: Executive lounge facilities are available at selected UK airports, at a charge. Lounge regulations apply, subject to opening hours. Call our Pre-Travel Services Team, no later than 7 days prior to departure. Helping hand?: If you require assistance on a flight just make your request at time of booking. Peanuts: Peanuts can be purchased on board Thomas Cook Airlines flights. If you suffer from a peanut allergy, call Thomas Cook Airlines on 0844 855 0515 for a peanut-free meal to be requested (provided you are entitled to a meal or have paid for a meal). Thomas Cook Airlines Ltd cannot guarantee to have a peanut-free environment onboard an aircraft and is not able to change or modify the cabin environment by individual passenger request Flight Seat Only For those with their own accommodation, return flight seats are available at competitive prices. Some transfers can also be pre-booked when purchasing a flight. Please call us for details or visit www.neilson.co.uk Scheduled flights to Canada We offer International direct and indirect scheduled flights to Canada from all major carriers, on all days (where available), from all relevant UK departure airports. For up to date information and quotes please call our team of Canada experts who can tailor make your ideal holiday on 0845 070 3460. Flying with Thomas Cook Airlines Providing you with the ultimate in flexibility, Thomas Cook Airlines are able to offer a number of pre-bookable flight services, which should be booked no later than 7 days prior to departure. (If you are not flying with Thomas Cook Airlines, please contact your airline direct or consult with your Travel Agent). Choose Your Seat When you book your holiday ask your travel agent (or select online) to add the ‘Choose Your Seat’ pre-bookable service. Prices start from just £15 return per person. This service enables you to select your seat number at www.flythomascook.com prior to the scheduled flight departure date. Internet Check-in Customers on selected routes who pre-book ‘Choose Your Seat’ can enjoy the benefits of internet check-in*, from 7 days prior to the scheduled flight departure date. Full details will be included with your invoice/flight tickets or by visiting www.flythomascook.com We know that our customers will love this new service and expect it to be very popular, so don’t leave it until the last minute as internet check-in may close up to 3 days before departure for some destinations. *Internet check-in is only available from UK only when you pre book ‘Choose Your Seat’ service as stated above and is subject to availability. Please note: For both the above services, seat numbers are subject to availability at the time of selection. Restrictions apply depending on aircraft type, route and CAA restrictions. Not all seats are available to reserve. Seat numbers you choose are not guaranteed - occasionally we may have to re-allocate seats (due to operational, safety or security reasons) and will aim to seat you as close aspossible to your selection. Services are bookable on line at www.flythomascook.com , alternatively by contacting Thomas Cook Airlines on 0844 855 0515. A fee will apply to a seat selection booking made through our call centre. Extra leg Room: If you like to stretch out, you can reserve one of the limited number of seats offering additional leg room, prices start from only £17.50 per person per flight. Short Haul flights are under 3 hours duration: Medium Haul flights include: Bulgaria. Long Haul flights are 7 hours and over. Company and Civil Aviation Authority regulations apply. If you are travelling with another airline, ask your travel agent for details of other airlines services. Dietary requirement meals/snacks: If you are entitled to a meal or have paid for a meal, Thomas Cook Airlines can offer a range of meal options, including children’s, vegetarian, vegan, diabetic and gluten-free. Please reserve at the time of booking – ask your travel agent to book via Finishing Touches on Viewdata. (Within 10 days of departure you Non-Thomas Cook Airline flights If you are not travelling on a Thomas Cook Airlines flight, the services may vary between airlines. Please check with us or your travel agent for details of the services on board other flights. Please also note however that the flight information shown in our brochure may change after publication. Occasionally it is necessary to change the airline used which may mean a flight shown as being operated by Thomas Cook Airlines is substituted by another airline. In the unlikely event this happens, we regret the same services cannot be offered on other non-Thomas Cook flights, either by ourselves or the airline you fly with and you will not be entitled to any compensation. If you have paid a supplement for an upgraded service, this will be refunded. All Flights Long haul flights: Time differences from the UK to North America mean that your flight will arrive up to 6 or 10 hours behind UK time. Also, flights to the West often arrive back in the UK, the day after they depart. For example: a flight departing from Calgary on a Saturday afternoon, arrives in the UK on the Sunday morning. Please bear this in mind when looking at flight times on the flight pages. Any long haul flight is a tiring experience, although there are steps you can take to make your journey more pleasant, such as drinking plenty of water and wearing comfortable clothes. For heightened in-flight comfort, you could take a Premium Cabin upgrade, which are available on certain flights, just speak to the reservations agent when booking. Carriage of infants (0-24 months) Infants must be over 6 weeks (2 weeks with Thomas Cook Airlines) to travel by air and must either sit on an adults lap or occupy a car seat (infants must be at least 6 months to occupy a car seat). If choosing to sit the infant on an adult’s lap, please see Child Price Conditions (Your Holiday Price section) for prices. If choosing to occupy a car seat, we recommend you contact the relevant airline for regulations for the car seat. Customers choosing this option will need to book a flight seat for the infant. The price of a seat for an infant will usually be the adult seat only price (but there may be discounts available). It is an airline regulation that children aged 2 or over must occupy a seat. Children aged 2 or over on the RETURN flight must pay the appropriate child price of the holiday. Infants Baggage Allowance on Thomas Cook Airlines flights: An allowance of 10kgs is available for infants flying with Thomas Cook Airlines - baggage must contain specific infant necessities such as nappies, bottles and baby accessories and this may be packed as part of adult baggage/luggage or can be packed separately. Carriage of unaccompanied minors (under 16 years) Thomas Cook Airlines will not accept children under the age of 16 years unless accompanied by an adult. Other airlines we use have similar restrictions, it is your responsibility to make appropriate enquiries with the airline direct before making a booking. At the airport Ski and snowboard carriage Carriage of skis and snowboards is strictly limited on flights. The cost to pre book ski carriage at the time of booking your holiday is £35. If you chose to book this at the airport with our representatives, the cost will be £50 (subject to availability as space can not be guaranteed). For each ski/snowboard carriage paid, only 1 pair of skis & Visit neilson.co.uk see your travel agent or call us on 0845 070 3460 boots or 1 snowboard & boots may be carried, with a maximum total allowance of 15kgs. We do not allow 2 sets of skis or snowboards to be placed in any one bag. Should you wish to use one large ski/snowboard bag or hard case to carry both your equipment and personal belongings together, this may not exceed 30kgs due to weight and lifting restrictions. Ski carriage must still be paid and no other luggage may be checked in (with the exception of your boot bag which falls within the 30kgs maximum weight allowance). Ski or snowboard boots may not be carried on to the plane as hand luggage, they must be checked in as hold luggage. Passengers who pre-book carriage of their skis and snowboards are guaranteed that in the event they are off loaded (due to aircraft weight restrictions), the booking fee will be refunded and the skis/snowboard will be forwarded to your resort at no extra cost. Should this not be practical, quality skis/snowboard will be provided in resort for the intervening period (one set per fee paid). For this reason, we do not recommend that you use a large ski/snowboard bag or hard case to carry both your equipment and clothing together as we do not replace clothing. Important note: You are responsible for the airport storage and costs of any equipment refused passage due to failure to pre-book aircraft space for your skis or snowboard. Please note: On scheduled flights, skis/snowboards count towards your total baggage allowance. Check-in The following information is designed to help you complete the airport check-in process as quickly as possible.If you fail to check in on time, the airline is entitled to refuse to allow you to board the flight. We cannot accept responsibility if such a situation arises and, whilst we endeavour to assist in making alternative travel arrangements to your resort, any cost or loss incurred as a result will be your responsibility. If you fail to check in at all for your flight from the UK, we retain the right to cancel any other arrangements you have booked with us and you will be unable to use your return flight to the UK. No refund can be made for any unused arrangements. When you arrive at the check-in desk for your flight, you will be asked for your ticket, passport and baggage. If travelling in a group, please make sure all members of your party are at the desk. Once you have checked in, you can move through to the departure lounge where you will find further information, including your departure gate number. Important notice: You must check-in at least 2 hours prior to departure, failure to do so could result in you being denied travel. Remember no calls will be made for your flight so please make sure that you are at the departure gate no later than 45 minutes before your departure time. Passengers that are refused travel will be responsible for arranging alternative transportation at their own expense. Airline regulations permit the in-flight consumption of alcohol purchased from the on-board bar service only. Security: Please keep your luggage with you at all times. Never carry packages or presents for anyone else. Unattended luggage will be removed and destroyed. Emergency Exit seats: Please note, for safety reasons we are unable to allocate seats on emergency exit rows to either disabled passengers or children. Pregnancy: Regulations vary from airline to airline, but some will refuse to carry women who will be 28 weeks or more pregnant on the date of return travel. If you are in doubt, please check with the airline concerned. We recommend that you also consult your own doctor. Fitness to fly: You may need permission to fly from your doctor if you suffer from certain medical conditions, which may mean you also require assistance from the airline. Should you have any concerns about your fitness to fly and you are flying with Thomas Cook Airlines please contact 0844 855 0515. Baggage delays: Although handling arrangements at UK departure points are excellent, there are occasions when your baggage may be delayed. However, if the recommended insurance is taken, you are covered for emergency purchases. Hand Baggage: The check-in agent at the airport will ask you to show your hand baggage. Only one item of hand baggage is permitted. If flying on a Thomas Cook Airlines flight, this should not be over 5kg in weight or bigger than 55cm x 40cm x 20cm in size. Please check requirements with your carrier if not flying with Thomas Cook Airlines. The low dose X-Ray machines used at UK airports to examine hand luggage will not affect photographic film. Hold baggage is subject to a higher dose X-Ray inspection and 303 NEI_SKI_1314_1ST_302_304.qxp:Layout 1 8/11/12 10:32 Page 304 Travel information we suggest therefore that you pack your film in your hand luggage. Items such as knives, scissors, tweezers and laser pointers may not be carried as hand luggage. These should be carried as hold baggage only. Any such items or sharp objects will be confiscated if packed in your hand luggage. Hold Baggage: Your hold baggage must not exceed the stated allowance on your ticket. A charge will be made if the stated allowance is exceeded. Baggage allowances range from 15kg up to 25kg. Individual items of luggage must not exceed 30kg for lifting purposes. Medical Equipment: If you are carrying medical/mobility equipment, you must ensure that you have adequate insurance to cover the items for possible loss or damage. Valuables: Please remember to pack any valuables including money, credit cards, jewellery, keys and camera equipment in your hand luggage and not in your suitcase. In flight safety Safety: the safety and welfare of passengers is of paramount importance. While we wish to create a genuine holiday mood, we will deny boarding or impose additional conditions of carriage on any passenger who: • is intoxicated and or disruptive. • found to be smoking on board our aircraft. • makes an inappropriate remark. Inappropriate remarks are considered as any comment or statement made by a person, which indicates they may be carrying a bomb (or other such explosive device), a firearm or weapon regardless of that person’s intent or reason for making the comment or statement. Although we want you to start and end your holiday on a high note, please make sure that you keep any drinking to a minimum before the departure of your flight. We will deny boarding to any passenger who appears to be intoxicated or whose behaviour we consider to be disruptive. Passengers that are refused travel will be responsible for arranging alternative transportation at their own expense. We realise that some larger passengers, due to their size, often find that aircraft seat width is insufficient for their needs. For your own safety and comfort and that of other passengers, you must advise us or your travel agent at the time of booking if you know or are unsure as to whether the seat size on the aircraft will be sufficient for your needs. If you do require additional space, then subject to availability, you can purchase more than one seat located side by side or if you prefer, a wider seat in an upgraded class (where applicable). We regret however, that due to additional costs incurred by us, you will have to pay the full cost of all seats required by you, plus any upgrade supplement per seat. If you are purchasing extra seats due to your size, please contact us or your travel agent. Smoking: please note that whatever airline you fly with, all UK airlines have a strict no-smoking policy throughout the aircraft. Deep Vein Thrombosis Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is a serious condition where blood clots develop in the deep veins of the legs. Prolonged immobility is generally thought to be the common underlying risk factor, and thus any travel involving prolonged immobility can result in developing a DVT. A wide range of advice is available on DVT - you are strongly recommended to obtain advice that will include information on those people most at risk of DVT and how to reduce risks when flying. Most passengers can reduce risks through keeping circulation active by practicing in-seat exercises, especially leg exercises, and walking around the aircraft whenever possible. Most airlines provide details of suitable exercises you can do and other measures you can take to reduce risks within their in-flight magazines or during in-flight videos and if you are flying with Thomas Cook Airlines, please also visit www.thomascookairlines.co.uk for further information. More comprehensive advice can be found on the UK Department of Health's website (www.dh.gov.uk) but if you believe you are at a higher risk or have any concerns about the risks or doubts about flying, you must consult your GP before you travel. Seat Pitch: we advise that the distance between the back support cushion of your flight seat and the back of the seat or other fixed structure in front of your seat will not be less than the minimum stated in the UK Civil Aviation Authority’s Airworthiness Notice No.64, issue 2 of the 29th October 2001 (26 inches). Flight routing A direct flight may touch down en-route for re-fuelling, or to pick up and/or drop off passengers. In these instances you are not normally required to disembark and the flight is still considered to be a direct flight. A non-direct flight may require a change of aircraft en-route while a non-stop flight will take you directly to your final destination airport without stopping. Flight seat only For those with their own accommodation, return flight seats are available at competitive prices subject to availability. Some transfers can also be pre-booked when purchasing a flight. Please call us for details or visit www.neilson.co.uk Self-drive value, from just £299pp * Driving to the Alps is one of the cheapest ways of getting to many ski resorts, especially if there are more than 2 of you sharing the car. France is the most popular self drive destination but Austria & Italy are also manageable. Our prices include a Eurotunnel passage from Folkstone with a free FlexiPlus upgrade together with your accommodation. Take as long as you like to get to & from the resort, all we ask is that you arrive at & leave your accommodation on the same date as our flight arrivals. Free Flexiplus upgrade Further information Your SELF DRIVE booking will include a Free FlexiPlus upgrade giving you: The terminal has a wide range of facilities where you can pick up items that you may need for your journey. The train journey time from Folkestone to Calais is just 35 minutes. Eurotunnel operates a ticketless travel system; we will send your 8-digit reference number with your final documentation. Simply type this code in at the automated check-in lanes. Please note: due to height restrictions, drivers of motorcycles & vehicles over 1.85m cannot use the dedicated parking spaces and thus the FlexiPlus lounge facilities. • Flexibility to take another departure if you should arrive early or late at the terminal. • Priority boarding lane & dedicated check-in area. • FlexiPlus lounge (open 6am-10pm) offering complimentary non-alcoholic drinks & light meals. Internet, fax & telephone services are also available. • Dedicated parking spaces at the terminal if you are stopping off. Easy to book Simply call our reservations team, let us know your preferred departure date/time and which accommodation you would like, we’ll advise the price and make the reservation for you. 304 Other cross channel services & approximate driving times to resorts available, please see neilson.co.uk/selfdrive or call for details. *£299 per person - based on 4 people sharing a car and staying in Flaine Apartments Flaine, France on 11th January 2014. A maximum of 9 people per crossing can be booked. Pre-book your lift pass, equipment & tuition with us to save £s NEI_SKI_1314_1ST_301.qxp:Layout 1 8/11/12 10:19 Page 301 Switzerland Important Holiday Information Flying to Switzerland Fly Rail Luggage Important Fly Rail Luggage Information: Daily flights from 17 UK airports For a small supplement, use our ‘Fly Rail Luggage’ service to transport your luggage from your UK airport to your chosen hotel. Simple and convenient, it’s a unique service that many of our customers choose to add to their booking. • Luggage often arrives the morning after your arrival which is why we do not recommend this service to keen skiers needing clothing early the next morning. Direct flights to Zürich and Geneva take just 90 minutes, depart at convenient times and are frequent and reliable throughout the winter. As well as daily services from London airports, Switzerland is well-served from regional UK airports. We offer scheduled services such as Swiss International Airlines and British Airways in addition to low cost carriers such as Easyjet and Flybe. Transfers to your resort By Rail Outbound Fly Rail Luggage Check in your luggage at your UK airport and pick it up from your hotel reception either later that evening or the next morning, depending on your flight arrival time. This service is available on all airlines flying into Zürich or Geneva to most resorts. Inbound Fly Rail Luggage Swiss Railways provide an outstanding service with a reputation for reliability. The majority of resorts have a railway station while a few are linked directly into the rail network by bus connections (included with your train ticket). Zürich and Geneva airports feature railway stations within airport terminal building which makes a very convenient way to start your holiday. For many Swiss hotels we offer return transfers from the resort railway station. We offer 1st and 2nd class rail transfer options to all our resorts (excluding cities). You will receive a detailed itinerary with your travel documents showing information on your rail journey e.g. timings, platform numbers, changes etc. • Fly Rail Luggage services can only be booked in conjunction with a rail transfer. • Luggage does not travel with passengers so we advise our customers to carry an overnight bag including any medication. For your return journey, leave your luggage at your hotel reception ready for collection either the evening before your departure or early morning depending on your flight time. We will organise for your luggage to be transferred to your departure airport and to be checked in for your flight. The next time you see your luggage will be on the luggage carousel at your UK airport. This service is only available when flying back to the UK with Swiss International Airlines from Zürich or Geneva. • Bulky items or sports equipment weighing over 32kg will not be accepted. Inbound Airport Baggage A large number of hotels featured in Switzerland offer free nights on selected dates throughout the season; your stay must include consecutive nights and satisfy all the qualifying dates and details shown to benefit from this offer. Guide prices in the price panels already include the free nights. You may prefer a return taxi transfer, especially if you’re travelling with ski equipment or in a group. We offer taxi transfers to all resorts. Where Inbound Fly Rail Luggage is not available, you may be able to opt for Inbound Airport Baggage. This is a similar service to Inbound Fly Rail Luggage except you will be responsible for collecting your luggage from the Swiss Railways counter at Zürich or Geneva airport and personally checking it in for your flights. Eurostar to Switzerland Fast Baggage Eurostar has transformed rail travel to Switzerland thanks to faster journey times, quick check-in (up to 30 minutes before departure) and better connections. Travel from London St Pancras, Ebbsfleet International or Ashford International direct to Paris Gare Du Nord. Then make one simple change to Gare de Lyon station for your direct onward train to Switzerland. If you are travelling between resorts on a multi-centre holiday you can opt for the Fast Baggage service. Leave your luggage for collection at your hotel before 9am and we will organise for it to reach your next destination hotel sometime after 6pm that day. By Taxi • Unfortunately we cannot offer Outbound Fly Rail Luggage, Inbound Fly Rail Luggage, Inbound Airport Baggage or Fast Baggage to Laax, Villars, Les Diablerets, Geneva or Zürich. Accommodation Minimum Stay & Arrival Day Restrictions Most of the Swiss hotels featured are subject to a minimum night’s stay and arrival day restrictions. Please see individual hotel descriptions for full details. Free Night Offers Child Discounts In some hotels, children aged 2-5 years may be eligible to stay for free when sharing a room with two paying adults. Meals, flights and transfers are usually extra. We also offer generous discounts for children up to 11 years. Free Rail Travel For Children Children under 15 years can travel for free on the Swiss public transport system when accompanied by at least one parent. We issue families with a free ‘Family Card’ to take advantage of this great benefit. Connections across Paris are simple. From Paris Gare du Nord to Paris Gare de Lyon – by metro (8mins), taxi (15-20mins) or bus (30mins). Winter 2013/14 Flight Programme to Switzerland UK DEPARTURE AIRPORT UK AIRPORT CODE AIRLINE DAY DATE FIRST DEPARTURE DATE LAST DEPARTURE ZURICH (ZRH) FOR: WENGEN, GRINDELWALD, INTERLAKEN, MÜRREN, KANDERSTEG, SAAS FEE, ZERMATT, DAVOS, KLOSTERS, ST MORITZ, ZÜRICH CITY & WINTER HIGHLIGHTS RAIL TOUR London Heathrow London Heathrow London City London City London Gatwick London Luton Edinburgh Edinburgh Birmingham Birmingham Manchester Manchester Manchester LHR LHR LCY LCY LGW LTN EDI EDI BHX BHX MAN MAN MAN Swiss British Airways Swiss British Airways Easyjet Easyjet Swiss BMI Swiss BMI Swiss Easyjet BMI Daily Daily Daily Sun-Fri Daily Daily Mon, Fri & Sun Mon, Fri & Sun Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily 1-Dec-13 1-Dec-13 1-Dec-13 1-Dec-13 1-Dec-13 1-Dec-13 1-Dec-13 1-Dec-13 1-Dec-13 1-Dec-13 1-Dec-13 1-Dec-13 1-Dec-13 30-Mar-14 30-Mar-14 23-Mar-14 28-Mar-14 30-Apr-14 30-Mar-14 30-Mar-14 30-Mar-14 30-Mar-14 30-Mar-14 30-Mar-14 30-Mar-14 30-Mar-14 GENEVA (GVA) FOR: VILLARS, LES DIABLERETS, GENEVA CITY, WENGEN, GRINDELWALD, INTERLAKEN, MURREN, KANDERSTEG, SAAS FEE & ZERMATT London Heathrow London Heathrow London Gatwick London Gatwick London City London City London Luton London Stansted Belfast Belfast Birmingham Bournemouth Bristol Edinburgh Glasgow Leeds Bradford Leeds Bradford Liverpool Manchester Manchester Newcastle Southend on Sea LHR LHR LGW LGW LCY LCY LTN STN BFS BFS BHX BOH BRS EDI GLA LBA LBA LPL MAN MAN NCL SEN Swiss British Airways British Airways Easyjet Swiss British Airways Easyjet Easyjet Easyjet Jet2 Easyjet Easyjet Easyjet Easyjet Easyjet Easyjet Jet2 Easyjet Easyjet Jet2 Easyjet Easyjet Daily Daily Daily Daily Daily Wed, Fri, Sun,Mon Daily Daily Thur - Mon Sat Daily Daily Daily Daily Sat, Sun Thur - Mon Sat Daily Daily Sat, Sun Daily Fri-Sun 1-Dec-13 1-Dec-13 2-Dec-13 1-Dec-13 1-Dec-13 19-Dec-13 1-Dec-13 1-Dec-13 1-Dec-13 1-Dec-13 1-Dec-13 1-Dec-13 1-Dec-13 1-Dec-13 1-Dec-13 1-Dec-13 1-Dec-13 1-Dec-13 1-Dec-13 1-Dec-13 1-Dec-13 1-Dec-13 30-Mar-14 30-Mar-14 30-Mar-14 30-Apr-14 24-Mar-14 24-Mar-14 30-Apr-14 30-Apr-14 7-Apr-14 30-Apr-14 30-Apr-14 30-Apr-14 30-Apr-14 31-Mar-14 31-Mar-14 14-Apr-14 30-Apr-14 30-Apr-14 14-Apr-14 31-Mar-14 30-Apr-14 BASEL (BSL) FOR: WENGEN, GRINDELWALD, INTERLAKEN, MÜRREN, KANDERSTEG, SAAS FEE, ZERMATT, DAVOS, KLOSTERS, ST MORITZ, ZÜRICH CITY & WINTER HIGHLIGHTS RAIL TOUR London Heathrow London City London Gatwick Edinburgh Manchester LHR LCY LGW EDI MAN British Airways Swiss Easyjet Easyjet Easyjet Visit neilson.co.uk see your travel agent or call us on 0845 070 3460 Daily Daily Daily Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun 1-Dec-13 1-Dec-13 1-Dec-13 1-Dec-13 1-Dec-13 30-Mar-14 30-Mar-14 30-Mar-14 30-Mar-14 30-Mar-14 301