Booking and Cancellation Policy:

U.S. regulations allow you 24 hours to cancel your booking for a full refund. Should you need to cancel for any reason after 24 hours from booking, all payments are final, non-refundable, and non-transferable. No credits will be issued due to the nature of this trip and flights (if applicable) are non-refundable and non-transferable.

It is strongly recommended that you purchase "cancel for any reason" travel insurance immediately after booking to protect yourself in the event of unforeseen cancellations or accidents.

Additionally, securing your international flights is your sole responsibility. Failure to do so in a timely manner often results in higher fares, and Melanated Expats will not be held liable for such increases. Cancellations resulting from delays in booking flights will not result in any credits or refunds.

Melanated Expats reserves the right to cancel or postpone a trip due to extenuating circumstances.

Fees and Payment Policy:

On the 5th day of non-payment, you will automatically be charged a $50 late fee.

• Your booking will be automatically canceled if two consecutive monthly payments are missed. All previously made payments will be forfeited.
• Setting payment reminders is your sole responsibility, as Melanated Expats does not send payment reminders.

Participant Responsibilities:

• As a participant on any Melanated Expats trip, it is your responsibility to ensure compliance with all country, airline, or vendor requirements, including vaccines and other necessary documents. No refund or credit will be issued if you fail to obtain the required documents or if sudden changes in country or airline requirements result in your cancellation.
• All cancellation requests must be submitted in writing via email to info@melanatedexpats.com. Cancellations cannot be made online.

By booking with Melanated Expats, you represent and warrant that you understand and agree to adhere to this cancellation and refund policy. The Company relies on these representations and warranties and will not be liable or required to issue refunds beyond the 24-hour booking window.

Deposits:

Please note that deposits are non-refundable after 24 hours.

Travel Insurance Requirement:

Travel insurance is required to book with Melanated Expats. This ensures your trip is protected in case of unforeseen circumstances.

Failure to Comply with Local Laws Clause: 

Melanated Expats is not responsible for participants' legal troubles or penalties resulting from failure to comply with local laws and customs.

Force Majeure Clause:

In the event of cancellations due to force majeure circumstances, including but not limited to natural disasters, government restrictions, pandemics, or other unforeseeable events beyond our control, refunds will not be issued.

For all other cancellations, refund requests will be subject to review and approval. Any approved refunds may be issued less applicable supplier or processing fees.

Changes in Itinerary Clause: 

Melanated Expats reserves the right to make changes to the itinerary due to unforeseen circumstances. While every effort will be made to provide equivalent services, no refunds or credits will be issued for changes.

Optional Activities Clause: 

Optional activities not included in the itinerary are undertaken at the traveler’s own risk. Melanated Expats is not liable for accidents, injuries, or other incidents that occur during optional excursions.

When planning a trip to South Africa, it's essential to be aware of the visa and entry requirements to ensure a smooth journey. Here's what you need to know:

Visa Requirements:

• Visa Exemption: Citizens of certain countries, including the United States, do not require a visa for stays of up to 90 days for tourism or business purposes. 
• Visa Application: If you plan to stay longer than 90 days or your country is not exempt, you must apply for a visa before traveling. The application typically requires a completed form, passport photos, proof of travel, and payment of a fee. 

Passport Requirements:

• Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure from South Africa. 
• Blank Pages: Ensure your passport has at least two consecutive blank visa pages for entry and exit stamps. 

Additional Considerations:

• Proof of Return or Onward Travel: Be prepared to show evidence of a return or onward ticket.
• Sufficient Funds: You may need to demonstrate that you have adequate financial means to support yourself during your stay.

Please note that entry requirements can change, so it's recommended to consult the South African Department of Home Affairs or your local South African embassy or consulate for the most current information before traveling.  South Africa Government

Vaccinations:

• Routine Vaccinations: Ensure that all routine vaccinations are up to date, including measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, and influenza. 
• Hepatitis A and Typhoid: Vaccinations for hepatitis A and typhoid are recommended, as these diseases can be contracted through contaminated food and water. 
• Yellow Fever: A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required if you are arriving from or have transited through a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission. 

Malaria:

• Cape Town is not a malaria-risk area. However, if you plan to travel to other regions in South Africa, especially northeastern areas, consult a healthcare provider about malaria prophylaxis. 

COVID-19:

• As of recent updates, South Africa has lifted its COVID-19 restrictions. Travelers are no longer required to provide proof of vaccination or undergo testing. However, it's advisable to check for any health forms or additional requirements before travel. 

General Health Precautions:

• Practice standard health precautions, such as drinking bottled or treated water, eating well-cooked foods, and using insect repellent to prevent mosquito bites.

It's advisable to consult with a travel health professional or your healthcare provider well in advance of your trip to receive personalized advice and any necessary vaccinations.