FAQ

CORONAVIRUS FAQ

Coronavirus has taken an unprecedented toll on our lives and especially on our travel plans. We are sure amid all these uncertainties; you might have a lot of questions in your mind.

That is why we have decided to clear the most popular doubts and queries below.

What do I do if  I need to make changes or cancel an upcoming trip due to the evolving nature of the situation?

For any changes in your upcoming trip, kindly reach out to us via email. Despite the present situation, our travel specialists are still working remotely. They will be happy to help you with any requests. You can drop us an email and let us know if you want to make changes, reschedule or cancel your upcoming travel plan.

Rescheduling:

In case you want to reschedule, you can reach out to us via email and send your request in writing. We will happily reschedule your holiday in the same season next year (according to the availability of course). If you want to reschedule your trip to a different season, please note that the quoted price may change based on the season you choose (higher or lower). Also, we would highly appreciate it if you send us a rescheduling request 30 days before the commencement of your trip.

Transfer of funds if you have made the payment in full:

Your money will be transferred to credit, and you can utilise this credit on your next holiday.

If you have made a deposit:

The rescheduling request, in this case, should also be made in writing. Furthermore, your deposit will be transferred to credit and will be utilised on your desired vacation. The balance owing will be due 30 days before the commencement of your rescheduled trip.

Cancellations:

TGIR acknowledges that we are living in unprecedented times. So, if you do not feel confident about the trip and want to cancel, you can do it by sending us an email.

Refunds, in this case, will be done according to our updated cancellation policy. Kindly note that these cancellation charges will be effective from the day we receive your email.

If you have made the payment in full:

Cancellation 59 to 30 days before arrival, will ensure a complete refund.

If you cancel 29 days prior to arrival, a hundred per cent of the tour/service cost will be refunded.

If you have made a deposit:

A cancellation  30 days prior to arrival will ensure a complete refund of your deposit.

We realize that we need to have each other’s back during these challenging times. That is why TGIR won’t be charging an additional fee for the services mentioned above (for cancellation and rescheduling).

Will I face additional charges if I move my booking to a future date?

No, we won’t charge you extra for postponing your trip. However, if the earlier booked properties aren’t available or there is a difference in price (higher or lower, due to season or festival or weekdays or weekends), the following will apply.

• Our representatives will inform you in writing about the change in plans (if any).
• If the new prices are higher, you will have to pay the difference.
• If the prices are lower, the price difference will be reflected in your booking, and you will be notified beforehand.

What are the steps taken by TGIR to ensure my safety?

TGIR has forever been committed to putting our client’s safety first, and we have never failed to deliver. Besides our book with confidence policy, we have been working closely with our travel experts and our collaborators to ensure a hassle-free, safe holiday for you all.

Here are a few things we are working on currently:

Safeguarding you from all the possible issues

TGIR is working tirelessly to understand the situation better in our home country. We are updating us with the condition every day to have a better vision for our future trips.

Also, to ensure safety, we aren’t shying away from making last-minute changes on our ongoing trips. Furthermore, our travel specialists are also working closely with the clients to plan a well thought out itinerary, one which does not expose them to the virus and doesn’t compromise on experiences.

Making sure that our hospitality partners are on the same page as us

TGIR has always taken pride in its collaborations with the top lodging options in India. We are ensuring contactless services, regular temperature checks, and thoroughly sanitized rooms and premises with their help. We are also making sure that masks, sanitizers, and gloves are readily available to our clients.

Planning itineraries to offbeat destinations

We understand that travelling to tourist hotspots during the Coronavirus pandemic and even post-pandemic can be daunting for travellers. That is why our travel experts are working on itineraries that are off the beaten track and are equally imminent in terms of experiences, if not more so.

We are also encouraging our clients to visit boutique properties for one of a kind and safe experience in India.

Equipping our ground support with every tool that can prove helpful for you

From contactless services and super clean commutes to safety gear for all our local guides, we are ensuring that you enjoy your holidays without worries.

Finding ways to help you to navigate the new rules of travelling in India

Our travel experts are working on informational pieces that will help you understand the present and future of travel in India. With our blogs, we are aiming to equip you with all the tools you need for your next trip.

Making sure you aren’t alone, and we are with you 24/7

TGIR promises you 24/7 customer support. We promise to give you extra attention and time during these challenging times.

Planning a robust action plan in case of emergencies

TGIR is following and often exceeding, the latest official advice from public health authorities relating to COVID-19. Still, we are also pre-preparing ourselves for emergencies that may come our way.

We have successfully worked on robust procedures to deal with any sorts of emergencies on our trip.

Ensuring that we give you a no-hassle refund

If you want to cancel or reschedule your trip, our representatives will happily do so without asking any questions.

All you will have to do is to write us an email, and we will initiate your refund. However, to claim refunds, you will have to reach out to our team 30 days before your arrival.

What is TGIR’s book with confidence policy?

Our easy book with confidence policy allows travellers to book a spot on the trip with an easy 30 percent deposit. The balance owing will be due 30 days preceding the commencement of that trip.

As per this policy, we give you the freedom to book and rebook up until a month before your arrival.

What if I have already booked a tour that departs in 2021?

Presently, tours booked for 2021 are scheduled to run as planned. TGIR believes that India will soon open its doors to international travellers, so we are looking forward to 2021 with optimism.

With that being said, if you are uncertain or aren’t feeling safe to venture into this journey, you can always reschedule the trip. For this, kindly drop us an email at least 30 days before your arrival.

Can my tour get cancelled? If so, what will happen next?

Like we told you, TGIR looks forward to 2021 with optimism. However, we do not know what the future holds for us. We are monitoring the situations closely, and if we feel that it is in our client’s best interest to cancel or postpone the trip. Don’t worry, we will notify you ahead of time.

Unless we have told you otherwise, you can assume that the tour will continue to operate as scheduled.

What if I face any issues during the tour?

Like we told you, TGIR promises to be at your service all time every time. All the help you need will always be a call/ message away. Our response team is very robust, and a solution to your query will be immediately offered. We meant it when we said we have your back!

What general health and safety protocols should I expect from TGIR moving forward?

The Grand Indian Route’s safety and health protocols are highly inspired by that of the World Travel and Tourism Council, the World Health Organisation, and The Indian Government. The protocols are along the line of the following.

• Thorough sanitation, disinfection, and deep cleaning of coaches and private vehicles.
• Sanitization of high-frequency touchpoints.
• Pre allocated seating plan for a medium-sized group.
• No physical contact with the driver or any of TGIR’s representatives.
• Finding a less crowded time for access to venues, hotels, and restaurants.
• Suggesting restaurants that endure sanitation and hygiene.
• Distinguishing high-risk areas and avoiding them.
• Handling a smaller group size, which is already TGIR’s area of expertise.
• Monitoring clients’ health from time to time and taking their temperature every day.
• Providing our clients with immediate transfer services in case of emergencies.

Other FAQs

What are the safety protocols that I will have to follow while touring India?

When travel does begin again, follow the following safety protocols:

• Keep your hands clean and avoid touching your face, eyes, and mouth (or your food!) if you haven’t washed or sanitized your hand.
• Wear masks at all times and do carry a pair of gloves with you to avoid contact.
• Keep your distance with people.
• Keep a good stock of hand sanitiser and wet wipes with you. Use them to wipe tray tables, armrests, headrests, and other potentially frequently touched places to help prevent germs.
• Avoid street food and eat at restaurants that follow the hygiene/safety protocols.
• Eat healthily and sleep well to help your immunity system do its job.
• Avoid travelling to crowded areas. The last thing you will want is to put yourself or others in harm’s way.
• Avoid consuming raw or undercooked meat and eggs.

For more details and updates, please refer to the official WHO guidelines.

What happens if I get sick?

If you develop a fever or symptoms of respiratory illness, our representatives will help you connect with a healthcare professional. They will determine whether you need to get tested for COVID-19 or not. If you take a test and test positive, we want you to stay indoors to save everyone else in harm’s way. Our travel counsellor will contact you for further evacuation procedures.

Even though we will help you in the entire process, you won’t be eligible for a full or partial refund.

How can I contact The Grand Indian Route if I have any questions – or want to book or rebook a trip?

Want to connect with us directly? Drop us an email at experience@thegrandindianroute.com.

You can also fill up a form on our contact us page to reach out to us.