Encounters T&Cs

Terms and Conditions

Palms Australia’s Encounter tours are run with the support and engagement of local communities. For this reason, itineraries and activities are subject to change, even after the commencement of the tour. This creates a more fulfilling experience for both local communities and travellers and it is this local community engagement that underpins our terms and conditions.

  1. Inclusions

Your Palms Australia Encounter starts and ends within the country of travel (Thailand, Timor Leste, Kiribati or Samoa). The tour includes all accommodation, transport and most meals within the Encounter period. Your tour includes activities and an expert guide. The exact itinerary is subject to change. Visa costs are included. Travellers to Thailand must obtain their own visa and present receipts for reimbursement.

Palms Australia Encounters do not include international travel to the destination. Travellers are responsible for arranging appropriate insurance for their travel. Palms Australia is not liable for any costs incurred travelling to, or from, the destination of the Encounter, or for any costs incurred in-country prior to or following the Encounter period.

2. Refund Policy

Travellers are required to pay a deposit of $300 to confirm their place on an Encounter tour. This deposit is only refundable in the event that Palms Australia is forced to cancel an Encounter. Palms Australia is not liable for any costs incurred as a result of cancelling an Encounter tour.

Full payment is required no later than 4 weeks from the start date of the Encounter.

3. Medical Clearance, Police Check and Working with Children Check

All travellers are required to complete a medical clearance form confirming they are fit to travel to their chosen destination, a Police Check and a Working with Children’s Check at their own expense.

4. Passport Requirements and Visas

All travellers must have a passport that is valid for at least 6 months from the date of departure. Travellers to Samoa do not require a visa. Travellers to Timor Leste and Kiribati will have the cost of their visas included in the Encounter program. Travellers to Thailand are required to organise their own visas with the Royal Thai Embassy in Canberra prior to travel and contact Palms for reimbursement of the $60 visa fee. Palms will not cover fees charged by third party visa agents.

5. Credit Card Fees

Palms Australia charges an additional 1.5% to payments made via credit card. This charge covers fees issued on the transaction by Stripe, our online payment processor.