TERMS AND CONDITIONS

I understand that life is unpredictable and plans can change. My goal is to provide clear expectations so you feel handled and secure from the moment you book. While I personally curate these journeys, Richelle Takes You relies on firm commitments to secure our boutique Italian partners, hotels, and family-run trattorias months in advance. These policies help us maintain the high level of service and intentionality you expect from our trips.

1. Reservations & Payments

Securing Your Spot Reservations are officially initiated upon receipt of either your full payment or a non-refundable deposit of $600 USD per person.

• The 45-Day Rule: If you are booking within 45 days of our departure date, the entire cost of the trip is due at the time of confirmation.

• Final Payment: Your full balance is due 45 days prior to our arrival date. To keep our logistics seamless, reservations are automatically canceled if payments are not received by the due date, resulting in the loss of the trip deposit. If you’re navigating a unique situation, please reach out to me directly so we can discuss it.

• Payment Methods: We primarily utilize Stripe for invoicing. You may pay via Credit Card in U.S. Dollars. Alternate accepted forms of payment include: bank transfer via wise.com, eTransfer, bank transfer or PayPal. For all CC and PayPal payments, there is a 5% processing fee attached to total.

2. If Plans Change: Cancellations & Penalties

We understand that sometimes the unexpected happens. All cancellations must be made in writing and sent to hello@richelletakesyou.com.

Because we make firm commitments to our boutique hotels and local partners, the following per-person charges apply based on when we receive your written notice:

• More than 120 days from start date: Full refund minus your non-refundable deposit and a $100 USD processing fee.

• From 120 to 45 days from start date: 50% refund of the total trip cost, minus your non-refundable deposit.

• Less than 45 days from start date: All payments are non-refundable and non-transferable.

• During the Journey: There are no refunds for unused tours, meals, or services once the trip has commenced.

The "Flexible Booking" Courtesy

We offer a one-time transfer option as a courtesy to our travellers. If you need to move your reservation to a different Richelle Takes You journey:

• Your request must be made at least 180 days before departure.

• Approved transfers incur a $250 administrative fee, plus any fees charged by our local suppliers.

• The credit must be used for a trip departing within 18 months of your original date.

Refund Processing: We will process eligible refunds within 30 days of receiving your written cancellation. In the unlikely event that the trip itself is canceled by Richelle Takes You prior to commencement (and you are unable to reschedule), all monies are refundable with the exception of specific personal trip expenses (such as non-refundable "advance purchase" tickets or deposits already paid to vendors).

3. Roommate Matching & Double Occupancy

We offer roommate matching as a heartfelt service to help make these journeys more accessible.

• The Match: If a roommate cancels, we are not required to provide a replacement. If no match is found two weeks after the Final Payment Date, you may choose to upgrade to a single room (at your expense) or cancel under the standard terms.

• Shared Responsibility: If you book with a specific friend and they cancel, the remaining traveler is responsible for the full cost of the room (the single supplement).

On-Tour Changes: Once the journey begins, we cannot facilitate room or roommate changes.

4. Investment Protection: Travel Insurance

We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance for every guest. Travel carries unpredictable risks from flight delays to health changes. Insurance is the only way to protect your financial investment. We recommend "Cancel For Any Reason" (CFAR) coverage for the ultimate peace of mind. While we provide quotes from preferred providers, you are welcome to use any trusted insurer

5. Health, Safety & Mobility: The "Slow Travel" Commitment

By forwarding your deposit, you certify that you do not have any physical or other condition that would create a risk for yourself or others. We move at a leisurely but active pace; you should be comfortable walking 3–5 miles (5–8 km) daily on uneven cobblestones and stairs. We unfortunately cannot accommodate wheelchairs or assistive mobility devices on these specific routes.

Rescue & Medical Assistance
In the unlikely event that rescue or medical assistance is needed, the participant shall be liable for the entire cost unless covered by your insurance provider.

6. Logistics & The "Fine Print"

Delays & Itinerary Changes:

• Punctuality: To respect the group’s time, we cannot delay departures for late arrivals.

• The "Dolce Far Niente" Clause: Sometimes destinations surprises us. We reserve the right to change hotels or activities due to weather or local logistics. Comparable quality will always be provided.

• Force Majeure: Richelle Takes You is not liable for failures to perform due to "Acts of God" (natural disasters, strikes, government sanctions, etc.).

Group Harmony: We maintain the right to remove a traveler from a journey if their behavior is consistently disruptive or poses a safety risk. In such cases, no refunds will be provided.

Photography: Photos and video taken by 'Richelle Takes You" hosts during the trip are the property of the company and may be used for promotional materials. If you prefer not to be featured, please advise us in writing by the final payment date.

What is NOT Included: To keep our pricing transparent, please note the following are not included in your tour cost:

• Round-trip airfare and baggage fees.

• Alcoholic beverages (unless specified during a tasting).

• Passports, visas (including ETIAS), and photos.

• Personal items, laundry, and meals not listed on the itinerary.

• Individual tips for local guides and drivers.

7. Traveler Requirements

• The "Slow Travel" Pace: You certify that you can meet the physical requirements of the trip, including walking 3–5 miles daily on uneven cobblestones and stairs. We move intentionally, but we cannot accommodate wheelchairs or assistive mobility devices on these specific routes.

• Confidential Health Info: For your safety, we require information regarding allergies, medications, and emergency contacts. This is held in the strictest confidence.

8. Release of Liability & Assumed Risk

By joining a Richelle Takes You journey, you acknowledge that travel has inherent risks.

• The Agreement: You agree to release and hold harmless Richelle Morgan and Richelle Takes You from any liability, known or unknown, arising from your participation.

• Third Parties: While I only work with partners who meet my high standards, we do not control the actions of third-party hotels or transport providers and are not responsible for their breaches of contract or negligence.

9. Final Acknowledgement

By submitting your deposit, you are moving from "talking about it" to "making it happen." You acknowledge that you have read these terms in full and agree to the spirit and the letter of this partnership.