Ethic Himalaya Treks & Expedition (P) Ltd is dedicated to providing exceptional services, ensuring an unforgettable journey for you. We are committed to honesty and diligence, striving to make your experience smooth and enjoyable. All services will be delivered as agreed upon during booking, following our policies and those set by the Tourism Authority. However, please be aware of the inherent risks involved, and you must take responsibility for your actions and participation. The adventure may entail extreme conditions, unpredictable weather, and itinerary changes beyond our control. Proper acclimatization to high altitudes is crucial. Our trips often take place in remote areas, where access to emergency services and medical facilities is limited. In case of serious injury requiring hospitalization, evacuation may take several days, affecting your recovery. While helicopters are commonly used for evacuation, they may not always be available due to weather conditions. We cannot be held responsible for any changes or cancellations due to factors such as government restrictions, natural disasters, political unrest, flight cancellations, delays, sickness, accidents, or vehicle breakdowns. Any additional costs incurred are the client's responsibility. Therefore, we strongly advise obtaining travel insurance covering cancellation, curtailment, personal liability, and loss of luggage and personal effects. Proof of travel insurance is required on the first day of your trip, and without it, participation will not be possible.

Expedition Manager/Guide: Our Island Peak Climbing will be led by an experienced and skilled professional in the climbing industry, who has successfully conquered various trekking peaks in Nepal.

4:1 Sherpa to client ratio on summit day: Our team includes Sherpa guides who have achieved previous summits and possess extensive expertise in high-altitude expeditions. For the summit day, we maintain a favorable 4:1 Sherpa guide-to-client ratio. Each of our Sherpa guides boasts considerable experience in scaling high-altitude peaks.

We prioritize small group sizes to ensure efficient coordination and cooperation, particularly during high-altitude climbing. Our Trekking peak climbing expeditions comprise a minimum of 2 and a maximum of 8 climbers in one group. This approach allows for personalized attention, better communication, and enhanced safety during the adventure.

As part of the requirements for high-altitude climbing, our Mountain Guides receive compensation for their services, which includes equipment allowance, daily wages, food, and insurance coverage. Additionally, there is a Summit bonus provided as Tips, following the Mountaineering system, to motivate and encourage the Mountain Guides in their efforts towards a successful summit bid. The specified amount for the Summit bonus is detailed in each mountain program, ensuring transparency and general information for our clients.

During tea house trekking, you'll have breakfast and dinner at the guesthouses or lodges, while lunch will be at trailside restaurants. The traditional Nepali meal "Dal Bhat Tarkari" (rice, curry, and lentil soup) is commonly served at these places. However, guesthouses also offer a variety of other food items like rice, vegetables, noodles, potatoes, and soups, with some even having Western options. Soft drinks, snacks, wine, and beer are available at most guesthouses and trailside restaurants. Food safety is a top priority, and we select the cleanest and most hygienically-kept hotels for our routes. During camping, our cook prepares the food based on your preferences, and we shop for the required items before the trip.

If you have specific dietary requirements, restrictions, or allergies, please inform us when booking the trip. Our teams will do their best to accommodate your requests, but due to local constraints, we may not always guarantee a wide variety of alternative menus. For strenuous trips, we recommend planning for additional groceries like energy bars, dried fruits, and chocolates to ensure sufficient caloric intake.

During the trek, tea and coffee are provided with meals. Soft and alcoholic beverages, including mineral water, are not included and are the responsibility of the participants. You can refill your water containers at the lodges, but it's important to treat the water with purifying tablets to ensure it's safe to drink. To reduce plastic waste, avoid buying bottled water and opt for treated water available in the villages. This way, we can limit the issue of plastic bottles and promote responsible environmental practices during the trek.

Transportation within Kathmandu Valley is facilitated by private vehicles, tailored according to the group size. During trekking periods, we provide the services of Porters to carry your baggage for the day. It is important to note that one porter will be assigned to assist two members.

• Transfers: Airport pick up and drop by Private vehicle.
• Helicopter flights: Kathmandu to Lukla and Lukla to Kathmandu (flights subject to climatic and operational hazards).

We kindly request your attention to the mandatory use of seat belts in all vehicles utilized during the trip, both in the front and rear seats, where they are available and in accordance with the regulations enforced in the visited country. By participating in the trip, you agree to adhere to this safety requirement. Please be aware that Ethic Himalaya cannot be held responsible for any bodily injuries or material damages incurred if this safety provision is not complied with by you.

In Kathmandu, your accommodation will be arranged at a locally recognized three-star hotel, featuring double rooms. During the trekking, we provide accommodations at guest houses and lodges, particularly in key trekking regions. These guest houses and lodges offer running hot and cold water amenities, and private rooms are readily available. While private rooms are a common feature, it's important to note that bathroom facilities are often shared. Drawing upon our extensive experience in the trekking domain gained over numerous years of organizing diverse treks in Nepal, we assure you of our meticulous selection process. We choose guest houses and lodges that are meticulously maintained, ensuring cleanliness and hygiene. These establishments are known for their amicable ambiance and exceptional vistas.

Upon reaching the base camp, the arrangement transitions to full board camping. Our camping setup is comprehensive and well-supported by a team of proficient guides, skilled cooks, capable Sherpas, and diligent porters who accompany you throughout. The porters are responsible for carrying trekking equipment, food supplies, fuel, and personal belongings. Our adept cooks diligently prepare nourishing hot meals. When the sun sets, we provide well-equipped tents for dining, sleeping, and ablutions. These tents are thoughtfully furnished with comfortable mattresses, cozy down-filled sleeping bags, tables, and seating arrangements.

A typical day on a camping trek commences at around 6 or 7 AM, with a rejuvenating cup of hot tea to invigorate you. Following this, a bowl of warm water is provided for your washing needs. Breakfast is then served, setting you up for the day ahead. The trek usually gets underway between 7:30 and 8 AM. Trekkers have the flexibility to pace themselves, allowing for pauses and sightseeing along the route. The morning walk typically culminates at the lunch spot after approximately 3 hours. Here, you'll be treated to a hearty, hot lunch.

In the afternoon, you'll continue your journey for another 3 to 4 hours, arriving at the next campsite around 4 or 5 PM. Tea and snacks are thoughtfully served to invigorate you while our dedicated staff prepares the camp. Dinner is typically served around 6 or 7 PM in the well-appointed dining tent, illuminated by lanterns, and thoughtfully furnished for your comfort.

Porters will be responsible for carrying your baggage, which will not be accessible to you during the course of the day. To ensure your convenience, it is recommended that you pack all your essential items for the day in your daypack. This typically includes warm clothing, a water bottle, camera equipment, sunscreen, lip balm, and other similar necessities. Your guide will provide you with information each evening about any additional items that may be required for the upcoming day's activities. With a well-designed and comfortable daypack, your load will only amount to a few kilograms, making it hardly noticeable and allowing you to fully enjoy your trekking experience.

To do a Trekking Peak expedition in Nepal, it is vital to have prior experience with high-altitude trekking and a basic understanding of climbing. Previous ascents of peaks above 4,000 meters or traversing passes at 5,500 meters are expected. Equally important are fierce determination, strong mental health, and a burning desire to conquer the mountain. Adequate preparation is required to handle challenges like high altitude sickness, harsh weather, and exhaustion. Being familiar with climbing equipment, walking on snow and ice, and maintaining good physical fitness are necessary. Proficiency in rope skills, ice axe arrest, crampon techniques, the use of ascenders (Jumar) and descenders, and harness usage are essential for a successful expedition.

Prior to booking, it is mandatory for clients to inform the Company in writing about any medical conditions, physical challenges, or other mental and physical conditions that may impact their ability to travel or require medical attention during the trip. Failure to disclose such conditions and subsequent cancellation will incur a 100% cancellation fee for the client.

Island Peak Climbing typically involves daily walks lasting 3-8 hours, sometimes even up to 8-10 hours, especially in high passes. Ethic Himalaya Treks recommends preparing with approximately 12 km of walking or jogging exercise each day for at least three months before the expedition. This training ensures participants can endure physically demanding conditions at high altitudes and in remote areas for extended periods. Success and enjoyment on the climb require strong willpower, the ability to withstand harsh conditions, excellent fitness, and good health. Participants are responsible for their medical and evacuation expenses, and it is essential to consult a doctor for vaccinations and other health requirements for the trip. Ethic Himalaya reserves the right to request a medical certificate before confirming the booking.

Travel insurance is a compulsory requirement for all travelers and must be obtained at the time of booking. The insurance should provide coverage for personal accident, death, medical expenses, and emergency repatriation, with a recommended minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for each category. It should also include accidents, injuries, illnesses, and related medical expenses, even for pre-existing conditions, as well as emergency repatriation, including helicopter rescue and air ambulance services if applicable. Personal liability coverage is also recommended. The Company also suggests coverage for trip cancellation, curtailment, loss of luggage, and personal effects. Travelers must carry proof of insurance and produce it if requested by the company employees or suppliers. Failure to provide proof of insurance upon request may result in the cancellation or suspension of participation in the trip or certain activities, even after the trip has commenced, without any right to a refund.

Ethic Himalaya Treks holds no liability for injuries, health conditions, emotional or other factors experienced by clients during the trip. Furthermore, our package cost does not encompass personal insurance coverage. Thus, we strongly recommend clients to procure comprehensive insurance packages, encompassing medical emergencies and helicopter evacuation.

Participation in a Island Peak Climbing expedition necessitates:

• Extensive Mountaineering Experience: A considerable background in mountaineering.
• Team Dynamics: Adaptation within the team and with Sherpa staff.
• Himalayan Trekking: High and demanding trekking experiences in the Himalayas.
• Self-Control and Safety: Being accountable for personal control and safety.
• Mental and Physical Fitness: Robust mental and physical well-being.
• Chosen Route: Selection between Nepal or Tibet side.
• Weather and Temperature: Awareness of weather conditions and temperatures.
• Physical Condition: Adequate physical conditioning.
• Climbing Skills: Proficiency in mountaineering techniques.
• High Altitude: Consideration for high altitude sickness.
• Clothing and Gear: Proper clothing and equipment.
• Experienced Guides: Presence of skilled climbing guides.

Kindly brings a comfortable medium-sized daypack to carry the things you will need during the day. This should have a waist strap or (better) a padded waist belt. Special items such as sleeping bags and down jackets can be hired or purchased in Kathmandu as well. But highly recommend bringing it from your own country.

Climbing Gear
• Ice Axe: Bring a lightweight axe with a pick that will stick easily in hard glacier ice. Attach a lightweight wrist leash that is usable for climbing steeper terrain.
• Crampons: These must be sharp and must fit your boot perfectly.
• Harness: Make sure the buckle is easy for you to thread in cold conditions! Gear loops will be useful for this trip as well as adjustable leg loops.
• Helmet: Be sure you can comfortably fit a warm hat underneath.
• Hardware: Bring 3 locking and 4 lightweight regular carabiners. It is helpful if at least one of the locking carabiners has a "key gate", like the Petzl Attaché. Bring one handled ascender and one Petzl Tibloc for ascending the fixed rope. You will need rigging material--two sewn 48" nylon slings and 10' of 8 mm perlon should be sufficient. Also, include one small 5 mm prusik loop (about 4 feet of cord tied with a double fisherman's knot) for a rappel backup. For rappelling the Black Diamond ATC Guide is good since it can handle ropes from 7.7mm to 11mm. Figure 8 is an old standby and works on a variety of ropes and also icy ropes. While it twists the ropes more, it is quite foolproof. You might consider both, in case you drop one of them and lose it. Our guide has an Ice tool, Ice screws, carbineers, Locking carabineers, Short-5- millimeter accessory cords, and Slings.
Others Accessories
• Headlamp: Bring a good LED headlamp with 2 sets of lithium batteries for cold conditions.
• Water Bottles: 2 wide mouth plastic water bottles with insulated covers. A small Thermos bottle is great for cold mornings. Bring a pee bottle too.
• Water purification: Iodine tablets (Potable Aqua or similar) or iodine crystals (Polar Pure). One bottle of Potable Aqua (enough to treat 25 liters) should be more than sufficient.
• Utensils: Bring an insulated mug with a lid, a decent-sized bowl, a spoon, a pocket knife, and a lighter.
• Backpack: Climbing Backpack: Medium-size internal frame pack (60-liter capacity). Look for a pack that is comfortable to carry, very durable, as light as is reasonable, and has a minimum number of bells and whistles.
• Sleeping Bag: Bring a sleeping bag comfortable to -20. Down is lighter and much more compressible. Be sure to bring a compression stuff sack. Keep in mind that many of your nights will be much warmer than -20, especially on the trek into base camp.
• Sleeping Mats: A stuff sack helps prevent punctures.
Footwear
• Double Climbing Boots with expedition liners: Make sure your crampons can be adjusted to fit them!
• Approach boots: Which will work on the trek and approach to Camp 1, and even up to Camp 2 if conditions warrant.
• Gaiters and Yaktrax or Kahtoola Microspikes in case of snow.
• Socks: Three/Four sets of climbing socks.
Climbing Clothing
• Insulated Parka: Heavyweight insulated expedition parka with hood.
• Jacket: Lightweight waterproof-breathable construction with a hood.
• Pants: Lightweight waterproof-breathable shell pants or bibs with full-length leg zippers. ALSO very useful are synthetic insulation full-zip pants, for example, Mountain Hardwar Compressor Pants--for evenings and cold summit days.
• Mid Layers: Fleece or Soft Shell layering pieces that work well with the rest of your clothing. A Soft Shell jacket and an expedition-weight long-john top will work well.
• Climbing Pants: Look for construction that provides freedom of movement and/or stretch materials. The fabric should be a breathable synthetic that preferably holds up to abrasion.
• Base Layers: - 2 synthetic tops and 1 bottom. Zip-neck tops are the way to go.
• Mittens: Fleece mittens with an over mitten. Nothing competes with a mitten for warmth when the going got tough.
• Ski Gloves: A warm insulated glove with leather palm will be worn a lot of the time.
• Light Gloves: Polypropylene or fleece. Leather palms handle the fixed line better.
• Leather gloves or good abrasion-resistant climbing gloves for the rock sections.
• Stocking Hat: Wool or fleece stocking hat with ear protection.
• Neck Gaiter and/or a Buff (highly recommended).
• Baseball hat and Bandana.
Personal Accessories
• Eyewear: Bring good sunglasses with side protection. For contact lens wearers, ski goggles with light color lenses (for use at night) might be useful in windy conditions. The ski goggles are essential for all climbers in really stormy conditions and can serve as an emergency backup for broken or lost sunglasses.
• Vision correction: Bring extra prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses if you wear them. Lens solutions are not widely available in Nepal, bringing enough for the duration.
• Wrist Watch: With alarm and night light. An altimeter watch is useful.
• First Aid: Hand sanitizer (Purell), moleskin or Compete, athletic tape, aspirin (some climbers take a baby aspirin every day up high) and/or ibuprofen/acetaminophen, Imodium, Band-Aids, antacid, insect repellant, ear plugs, and two rolls of toilet paper in quart Ziploc bags (we will have a supply at Base Camp), small towel, soap/shampoo.
• Prescription Medications: Antibiotic for upper respiratory problems, Antibiotic for GI problems, Diamox for acclimatization (125 mg tabs recommended; enough for a week or more), Tylenol 3 or similar for severe headaches, Asthma medication, if any history.
• Skin Care: Sun block lotion (at least #30 protection factor -- have at least one smaller tube (1 oz) that can fit in your pocket) and lip salve. Put your lip protection on a string and hang it from your neck. That way you'll use it. It also works great for your nose.
• Garbage Bags: 2 or 3 large plastic bags make great liners for your pack in wet weather.
• Personal Snack Food: The food is great on the trek but you might enjoy a few snacks (not more than 5 pounds) from home and also some drink mixes if you like these to add to your water bottle (let the iodine have 30 minutes contact time before adding). Summit climbers should bring some high-altitude snacks they prefer for hard days.
• MP3 Player and Books: Plan on sharing books with the Base Camp Library.
• Pee Bottle
• Chemical Hand Warmers
Trekking Gear
• Trekking Poles: Poles come in handy for balance and easing impact to your knees. Get collapsible poles that can attach to your backpack and fit into your duffel.
• Backpack: You may choose to bring a smaller "daypack" for your airline travel carry-on, and this can be used on the trek if you want to carry a smaller (35 liter or so), light trekking pack. You need a pack big enough for your clothes, water, camera, food, etc during the day.
• Pack Cover: Waterproof rain cover for your trekking pack.
• Trekking Clothes: Light hiking pants and/or hiking shorts for warm weather down low- NOT cotton. Shirts for hiking on nice days (t-shirts OK, quick-drying synthetic fabric is better.) Don't overdo your trekking clothes. A pair of shorts, long pants, and a couple of shirts will do. Some pair of Socks, Underpants/panties/Bra, Belt, Skirt, one set Sport sandals, and Trousers, You can hand wash them during the trek as needed.
• Lightweight Approach Boots: Find a pair that fits and log some miles in them before your trip. A low-cut shoe is adequate, but some hikers will prefer more ankle support.
• Sleeping Bag: Climbers will make do with their expedition bag; trekkers only can get by with a lighter bag rated to -10.
• Sleeping Pad or Thermarest: -one light one is sufficient, you will be provided a thick open cell foam "trekking mattress" (recommend only for camping trek).
Travel Items
• Duffel Bags: We normally pack all our equipment in two large duffel bags. Make sure they are well labeled with indelible ink as well as a travel tag. The duffels go on the trek/climb with you and will be carried by porters and yaks. Expect them to get wet and muddy, so rugged, waterproof duffels are good. Bags with wheels are nice for the airport, but the porters and yaks don't like to carry them, so don't bring wheeled bags (or at least not two of them). You will also store some travel clothes at the hotel in Kathmandu while trekking, so a small additional bag with a lock might be handy. Bring 5 large plastic garbage bags to pack gear inside duffels to protect gear from rain.
• Daypack: A smaller rucksack makes a great carry-on bag for your flight and is useful during the trek.
• Travel Wallet: Some type of secure travel wallet is a must. Remember a pen for travel documents.
• Passport: (valid for at least 6 months), It is easy to get your Nepal visa on arrival in Kathmandu at the airport bring a passport photo. Bring a copy of the information pages and a couple of extra passport photographs. Carry these in a separate location. You'll be glad you did if you ever lose a passport.
• Camera: with spare batteries, and film or memory cards, but keep it reasonable in size and weight. Consider a small USB drive to make it easy to share photos with your teammates.
• Bathing Suit: Towel, Toothpaste, brush, floss, mini hair brush, razor, soap, a mini bottle of shampoo, travel mirror, nail clippers, etc.

Expedition participants are required to submit their passport copies, passport-sized photographs, health certificates, and personal bio-data for trekking permits prior to their arrival in Nepal. These documents can be sent to us either through mail or by utilizing a post box. Please ensure that you include the following:

• A clear copy of your passport.
• A passport-sized photograph of yourself.
• A valid health certificate.
• Your personal bio-data.

Kindly arrange to provide these documents at your earliest convenience to facilitate a smooth and hassle-free process.

Ethic Himalaya is well-prepared to handle emergencies during treks and expeditions. Their trained guides maintain direct communication with their main office in Kathmandu regularly. It is mandatory for clients to have their own insurance to address potential emergencies, and the company's staff is also covered. In extreme cases requiring urgent helicopter evacuation between 5,000m to 6,000m, they can arrange a rescue, possibly covered by insurance. For climbing weather forecasts, they recommend reputable sources like Meteo Swiss or Austrian ones and offer assistance with communication. To enhance trip security, they strongly advise trip cancellation and air ambulance/helicopter rescue insurance, ensuring policies cover the activities involved. Carrying proof of insurance is essential, as failure to provide valid documentation may affect participation without refund. Adequate insurance, including emergency air ambulance/helicopter rescue coverage, ensures expedition safety.

If you encounter any issues or complaints during your tour, trekking, or expedition, it is essential to communicate them immediately to the hotelier and our company on the spot. Giving us the opportunity to address the problem promptly is crucial, as we cannot accept liability for any issues that are reported after you return home. If the matter cannot be resolved on the spot, you must inform us in writing within 30 days of completing your trip. Failing to follow this procedure may impact your rights to make a claim against us. Timely communication is vital to ensure that we can take appropriate actions and rectify any problems you may face during your journey.

All clients must possess a valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity beyond the return date. Nepalese visas can be acquired either from the Nepalese Consulate in your home country or upon arrival at Kathmandu Airport. The visa fees are as follows:

• USD 30.00 or the equivalent in foreign currency for a 15-day Tourist Visa with Multiple Entries.
• USD 50.00 or equivalent for a 30-day Tourist Visa with Multiple Entries.
• USD 125.00 or equivalent for a 100-day Tourist Visa with Multiple Entries.

For most nationalities, E-Visas are available through the Government website: https://nepaliport.immigration.gov.np/on-arrival/IO01

The itineraries or programs mentioned may be subject to change without prior notice due to unforeseen circumstances beyond our control, such as weather hazards, landslides, political unrest, road blockages, avalanches, sudden sickness, and more. We are open to customizing the program based on clients' interests. In the event of trip cancellation due to unavoidable circumstances like war, natural disasters, political unrest, adverse climate, etc., Ethic Himalaya Treks & Expedition P. Ltd will be pleased to offer an alternative trip of similar standard. We will hold the reservation for your next trip, but not for longer than one year.

Before departure, if there is a major change in the itinerary affecting at least one day in five, we will inform you as soon as reasonably possible. You may choose between accepting the change, getting a refund of the money paid for the land portion of the trip only, or accepting an alternative tour offered.

After departure, we reserve the right to modify the itinerary due to local circumstances or events beyond our control. In such emergency situations, any additional costs incurred for necessary itinerary alterations will be borne by you. Please be aware that we are not responsible for any incidental expenses resulting from changes in the itinerary, such as visa fees, vaccinations, or non-refundable flight costs.

To secure your booking for Nepal Trips, a non-refundable deposit of USD 500 per person per trip is required. Once this deposit is received, your booking will be confirmed. In case your booking is made within 30 days of the departure date, the full amount is due at the time of booking. The remaining balance can be paid before or upon your arrival in Nepal prior to the trip's departure. The non-refundable deposit should be sent to the Company or its designated Agent. If the deposit amount differs from what is specified in this clause, the company will inform you during the booking process. You can make the booking deposit through bank transfer or by using a Credit Card (Visa or MasterCard). Detailed instructions for payment can be found on the provided booking form.

For trekking, tours, climbing, expeditions, or any other trips in Nepal, the final payment can be made upon your arrival in Nepal. Various payment methods are accepted, including bank transfer, travel checks, cash, or Credit Card (Visa or MasterCard). However, please note that there is a 4% surcharge applicable to all card payments, including deposits, final balances, trip extensions, and other miscellaneous purchases. So, if you choose to pay by card, keep in mind the additional surcharge.

We maintain the right to adjust pricing rates, as displayed on our marketing materials and website, under certain circumstances or when influenced by external factors beyond our control, such as fluctuations in exchange rates or government actions. It's important to note that domestic flight fares may also change due to increases in fuel prices. We make every effort to present current and accurate prices for our treks and tours.

Once you have paid the deposit, your trip is confirmed, and the remaining fees are due 90 days before the trip's start date. If you decide to cancel your participation, the following cancellation charges will apply:

• More than 45 days before departure: Deposit will be retained.
• Between 45 to 31 days before arrival: 30% of the total tour price.
• Between 30 to 14 days before arrival: 40% of the total tour price.
• Between 14 to 09 days before arrival: 70% of the total tour price.
• Between 08 to 02 days before arrival: 80% of the total tour price.
• Less than 48 hours before arrival: 90% of the total tour price.

We reserve the right to cancel a trip up to 56 days before departure, considering Clause 14. We may also cancel a trip prior to departure if it becomes unfeasible to operate the planned itinerary due to factors like terrorism, natural disasters, political instability, or other external events. If we cancel your trip, you have the option to transfer the amounts paid to an alternate departure date or receive a full refund. In cases where the cancellation results from external events beyond our reasonable control, refunds will be adjusted for any unrecoverable costs. Please note that we are not liable for any incidental expenses you may have incurred in relation to your booking, such as visas, vaccinations, travel insurance excess, or non-refundable flights. Different cancellation conditions may apply to specific trip styles, and your booking consultant will inform you of any variations if applicable.

If you intend to transfer from one trip to another or transfer your booking to a third party, you must inform us at least 30 days prior to the planned departure date. A fee of USD 200 per person per change will be applied, along with any additional charges imposed by hotels, ground operators, or airlines. If you notify us less than 45 days before the departure date, the cancellation refund policy will be applicable. Transfers to a third party are allowed only if the transferee meets all the requirements for the trip, and transfers to another departure are permissible within the current validity period.

Modifications to other arrangements associated with your trip will incur an administration fee of USD 200 per booking per change. This fee is in addition to any charges levied by hotels, ground operators, or airlines. No amendments can be made to your booking within 10 days of departure.