Travel Services Agreement & Booking Terms
A legal agreement between Cultured Compass LLC and the Client.
Welcome
Thank you for choosing Cultured Compass.
Our mission is to create thoughtfully designed journeys that combine exceptional planning, trusted supplier relationships, and personalized service to deliver seamless travel experiences around the world.
These Travel Services Agreement & Booking Terms ("Agreement") establish the legal relationship between you and Cultured Compass LLC ("Cultured Compass") and govern all travel planning, consulting, itinerary design, reservation, booking, package, payment coordination, and related travel services provided by Cultured Compass, whether arranged through WeTravel, direct invoice, Credit Card Authorization, supplier payment links, direct supplier payments, or any other approved booking or payment method.
Because every itinerary we design is unique and often includes reservations with numerous independent travel suppliers around the world, it is important that both parties clearly understand their respective rights, responsibilities, and expectations before travel arrangements are made.
By engaging Cultured Compass for Travel Services after receiving notice of and access to this Agreement, and affirmatively authorizing Cultured Compass to proceed, the Client agrees to be bound by these Travel Services Agreement & Booking Terms.
Acceptance does not require a separate signature unless otherwise specified. Acceptance may be established through documented authorization, approval of a Proposal, submission of payment, online checkout, or other conduct clearly indicating agreement to these terms.
1. Definitions
For purposes of this Agreement, the following definitions shall apply:
Agreement
This Travel Services Agreement & Booking Terms, together with any proposals, invoices, itineraries, booking confirmations, supplier confirmations, destination acknowledgements, credit card authorizations, waivers, policies, amendments, and other written documents incorporated by reference.
Cultured Compass
Cultured Compass means Cultured Compass LLC, an Oregon limited liability company. Throughout this Agreement, "Cultured Compass," "we," "our," and "us" refer to Cultured Compass LLC.
Client
The individual or entity engaging Cultured Compass to provide Travel Services.
The Client may also be the Primary Purchaser.
Primary Purchaser
The individual entering into this Agreement, approving the itinerary, authorizing reservations, and assuming responsibility for payment obligations associated with the reservation.
Unless otherwise agreed in writing, the Primary Purchaser serves as the primary point of contact for all Travelers included within the booking.
Traveler
Any individual for whom Cultured Compass arranges, reserves, coordinates, or purchases travel services under a reservation.
A Traveler may or may not be the Primary Purchaser.
Supplier
Any independent third party providing travel-related goods or services, including but not limited to:
hotels
resorts
vacation rentals
cruise lines
airlines
rail operators
transportation companies
guides
destination management companies
tour operators
activity providers
insurance companies
visa providers
restaurants
event organizers
government agencies
Travel Services
Professional services provided by Cultured Compass, including but not limited to:
travel consultation
itinerary design
destination research
supplier sourcing
travel recommendations
reservation coordination
booking administration
payment coordination
package creation
concierge services
travel documentation
trip management
travel support
Travel Package
A customized combination of travel services assembled and offered by Cultured Compass, which may include accommodations, transportation, cruises, tours, activities, guides, transfers, meals, planning services, and other travel components.
Proposal
A written quotation, itinerary, pricing document, or travel recommendation prepared by Cultured Compass.
Booking
A reservation or collection of reservations requested by the Client and arranged by Cultured Compass.
Confirmation
Written confirmation that one or more Suppliers have accepted and confirmed the requested reservation.
Force Majeure Event
An event beyond the reasonable control of Cultured Compass or its Suppliers, including but not limited to natural disasters, severe weather, acts of government, war, terrorism, civil unrest, strikes, epidemics, pandemics, transportation disruptions, supplier insolvency, or similar unforeseen circumstances.
2. About Cultured Compass & Our Business Model
Cultured Compass is a boutique travel advisory and custom travel planning company specializing in thoughtfully designed journeys, luxury and premium travel experiences, complex itineraries, cruises, group travel, milestone celebrations, and personalized travel consulting.
Unlike online booking platforms or reservation websites, Cultured Compass provides professional expertise before, during, and after reservations are made. Our services extend beyond simply booking travel and include strategic planning, destination knowledge, itinerary development, supplier coordination, logistical planning, and ongoing client support.
Depending upon the services requested, Cultured Compass may act in one or more capacities throughout the planning process, including as:
a professional travel advisor and consultant;
a custom itinerary designer;
a travel package organizer;
an authorized representative acting on behalf of the Client when making approved travel arrangements;
and, where applicable, an intermediary facilitating reservations with independent travel Suppliers.
Cultured Compass is not an airline, cruise line, hotel, transportation company, tour operator, or other travel Supplier unless specifically identified as such in writing.
Most travel services arranged through Cultured Compass are ultimately provided by independent third-party Suppliers operating under their own terms, conditions, operating procedures, and cancellation policies.
3. Scope of Services
Cultured Compass provides professional travel planning and advisory services tailored to each Client's individual travel goals, preferences, and budget.
Services may include, but are not limited to:
destination consultation;
itinerary design;
travel budgeting;
supplier research and selection;
hotel and accommodation recommendations;
cruise planning;
airfare research and coordination;
transportation planning;
private guide and tour coordination;
dining and activity recommendations;
reservation management;
travel document preparation;
travel logistics;
concierge recommendations;
trip monitoring;
assistance with itinerary changes;
post-booking support; and
other travel-related consulting services requested by the Client.
Certain services may be available only as part of a custom travel package or planning engagement.
The specific services included for any reservation shall be those described within the applicable Proposal, itinerary, invoice, or written confirmation.
Cultured Compass does not guarantee the availability of any Supplier, accommodation, transportation, experience, fare, pricing, upgrade, room category, cabin category, seating assignment, or requested service until confirmed by the applicable Supplier.
4. Agency Relationship & Authority to Act
The Client appoints Cultured Compass as its authorized travel representative for the limited purpose of researching, coordinating, arranging, reserving, purchasing, modifying, cancelling, and otherwise administering approved travel arrangements with independent Suppliers.
Cultured Compass shall act only within the scope of authority granted by the Client through written instructions, electronic communications, Proposal approval, invoice payment, Credit Card Authorization, WeTravel checkout, or other documented authorization.
The Client authorizes Cultured Compass to:
communicate directly with Suppliers regarding the Client's reservations;
negotiate reservation details where appropriate;
obtain pricing and availability;
secure reservations;
collect payments where applicable;
facilitate payments to Suppliers;
modify reservations when authorized;
request refunds, credits, or exceptions from Suppliers;
and perform administrative functions reasonably necessary to manage the Client's travel arrangements.
Cultured Compass will not knowingly purchase travel services without the Client's authorization.
Authorization may be established through:
electronic signature;
email approval;
text message approval;
approval of a Proposal;
execution of a Credit Card Authorization Form;
submission of payment;
WeTravel checkout;
or other written authorization reasonably relied upon by Cultured Compass.
The Client acknowledges that once Cultured Compass has been authorized to secure reservations, funds may be committed immediately to Suppliers whose inventory, pricing, or availability may change without notice.
5. Custom Package Pricing
Cultured Compass may offer customized travel arrangements as a single integrated Travel Package rather than as an itemized resale of individual Supplier services.
The package price may reflect the combined value of:
itinerary design and professional travel planning;
Supplier research and selection;
reservation coordination;
negotiated or contracted Supplier rates;
destination expertise;
administrative and payment-processing services;
traveler communication and documentation;
risk assumed in assembling or administering the package;
post-booking support;
and the accommodations, transportation, activities, and other travel components described in the applicable Proposal.
5.1 Package Price
The Client agrees to purchase the Travel Package for the total price stated in the applicable Proposal, invoice, or booking page.
Unless expressly stated otherwise, the package price is not represented as the sum of the retail prices charged by individual Suppliers and does not constitute a cost-plus arrangement.
The Client’s payment obligation is based upon the agreed package price and not upon Cultured Compass’s underlying costs, commissions, negotiated rates, or compensation arrangements.
5.2 No Cost Accounting or Supplier-Receipt Requirement
Except where disclosure is required by applicable law, Cultured Compass is not required to provide the Client with:
Supplier invoices;
wholesale or net rates;
commission statements;
internal pricing calculations;
negotiated contracts;
individual cost allocations;
proof of Cultured Compass’s cost for a travel component;
or an accounting of the profit or margin associated with the Travel Package.
Receipts or confirmations issued directly in the Client’s name may be provided when reasonably available and appropriate for travel, insurance, tax, reimbursement, or verification purposes. Such documentation does not require Cultured Compass to disclose its confidential Supplier pricing or internal compensation arrangements.
5.3 Negotiated Rates, Commissions & Margin
Cultured Compass may receive compensation through one or more sources, including:
professional planning fees;
service or administrative fees;
Supplier commissions;
negotiated or wholesale rates;
package margin;
incentives;
overrides;
promotional consideration;
or other lawful compensation arrangements.
Unless otherwise expressly agreed in writing, Cultured Compass is entitled to retain such compensation in addition to the agreed package price.
Any savings, discounts, commissions, rebates, rate reductions, favorable exchange-rate movements, negotiated concessions, or other economic benefits obtained by Cultured Compass through its Supplier relationships belong to Cultured Compass and do not create an obligation to reduce the agreed package price or issue a refund to the Client.
5.4 Confidential and Proprietary Information
Cultured Compass’s Supplier relationships, negotiated rates, commissions, contracts, pricing methods, margins, sourcing strategies, and internal cost information constitute confidential and proprietary business information.
The Client has no ownership interest in such information merely because it relates to a Travel Package purchased by the Client.
5.5 Changes in Underlying Costs
Once the package price has been confirmed and paid, a later reduction in Cultured Compass’s underlying Supplier costs does not entitle the Client to a price reduction, refund, or accounting.
Likewise, Cultured Compass may not increase a confirmed package price solely because its internal margin decreases, except where the increase results from an authorized reservation change, newly imposed tax or governmental fee, currency adjustment expressly permitted in the Proposal, Supplier surcharge, or another circumstance disclosed in this Agreement.
5.6 Required Price Disclosures
Cultured Compass will disclose the total package price and any mandatory charges payable by the Client in accordance with applicable law.
Optional products, upgrades, insurance, processing methods, or additional services may be priced separately when clearly disclosed before purchase.
Nothing in this section permits Cultured Compass to misrepresent the package contents, conceal mandatory charges, or make false statements concerning pricing.
6. Booking Process
Cultured Compass provides customized travel planning and reservation services based upon information provided by the Client. Because travel inventory, pricing, availability, and Supplier terms frequently change, all proposals, itineraries, and pricing estimates remain subject to availability and confirmation by the applicable Supplier(s).
6.1 Travel Proposals
Travel proposals, itineraries, pricing estimates, and recommendations are prepared using information available at the time they are issued.
Unless expressly stated otherwise in writing:
proposals do not constitute confirmed reservations;
pricing is subject to change without notice prior to confirmation;
Supplier inventory may sell out at any time;
promotional pricing may expire without notice;
exchange rates, taxes, fuel surcharges, government fees, and Supplier-imposed charges may change; and
requested accommodations, transportation, experiences, guides, or other travel components may become unavailable prior to booking.
6.2 Authorization to Book
Acceptance of this Agreement and authorization to make specific travel reservations are separate actions.
By engaging Cultured Compass for Travel Services after receiving notice of and access to this Agreement, and taking an affirmative action indicating acceptance, the Client agrees to the terms governing the professional relationship, as further described in Section 30.
Acceptance of this Agreement does not, by itself, authorize Cultured Compass to purchase travel services or commit the Client to specific Supplier reservations.
Cultured Compass will not knowingly secure reservations or commit Client funds to Suppliers without authorization from the Primary Purchaser.
Authorization to proceed with specific reservations may be provided through:
Written approval of a Proposal, itinerary, or quotation identifying the travel arrangements to be booked;
Payment of a deposit or invoice clearly associated with the proposed reservation;
Completion of a WeTravel or other approved booking checkout;
Execution of a Credit Card Authorization Form;
Email, text message, or other documented electronic communication;
Verbal authorization, where appropriately documented and permitted by applicable law; or
Another affirmative action clearly communicating the Primary Purchaser's approval of the specific travel arrangements.
Authorization may apply to an individual reservation, multiple travel components, or an entire Travel Package, depending upon the scope of the approval provided.
Upon receiving authorization, Cultured Compass may begin securing the approved reservations, committing authorized funds to Suppliers, and taking reasonably necessary actions to preserve pricing and availability.
The Client acknowledges that authorized reservations may become immediately non-refundable or subject to Supplier cancellation penalties.
Material additions, changes, or purchases outside the scope of the original authorization may require additional approval from the Primary Purchaser.
6.3 Reservation Confirmation
Reservations are not considered confirmed until accepted and confirmed by the applicable Supplier(s).
Confirmation that Cultured Compass has submitted a reservation request does not constitute Supplier confirmation.
Certain reservations—including airfare, luxury accommodations, boutique cruises, eclipse inventory, private guides, event tickets, and promotional rates—may become immediately non-refundable or subject to significant cancellation penalties upon confirmation.
6.4 Alternative Accommodations & Substitutions
If a requested travel component becomes unavailable before confirmation, Cultured Compass may recommend comparable or superior alternatives based upon the Client's travel preferences, budget, and overall itinerary.
No material substitution will be confirmed without the Primary Purchaser's approval unless immediate action is reasonably necessary to preserve the overall itinerary and the substitute is substantially equivalent or of greater value.
7. Primary Purchaser & Additional Travelers
The individual entering into this Agreement shall be considered the Primary Purchaser.
The Primary Purchaser serves as the primary point of contact for the reservation and is responsible for communications regarding the booking unless otherwise agreed in writing.
7.1 Authority
The Primary Purchaser represents and warrants that they have authority to request travel arrangements for each Traveler included within the reservation.
The Primary Purchaser further represents that all information provided regarding each Traveler is accurate to the best of their knowledge and that they have obtained permission to provide such information to Cultured Compass.
7.2 Responsibilities
Unless otherwise agreed in writing, the Primary Purchaser is responsible for:
approving itineraries;
authorizing reservations;
approving pricing;
authorizing payments;
ensuring payment deadlines are met;
communicating important travel information to all Travelers;
ensuring Travelers complete required documentation;
notifying Cultured Compass of any changes affecting the reservation.
7.3 Additional Adult Travelers
Each adult Traveler may be required to separately complete:
destination acknowledgements;
Supplier waivers;
travel insurance acknowledgements;
health questionnaires;
electronic signatures;
traveler registration forms;
or other documentation required by Cultured Compass or independent Suppliers.
Failure of a Traveler to complete required documentation may delay, prevent, or cancel that Traveler's reservation.
7.4 Minor Travelers
Travelers under eighteen (18) years of age must be accompanied or otherwise authorized by a parent or legal guardian.
The parent or legal guardian shall remain responsible for all required documentation, permissions, supervision, and legal authority relating to the minor Traveler.
8. Payment Terms
Payment schedules shall be established within the applicable Proposal, invoice, WeTravel booking page, or other written confirmation.
8.1 Deposits
Deposits are due as specified within the applicable Proposal or invoice.
Unless otherwise stated, payment of a deposit authorizes Cultured Compass to begin securing travel services on the Client's behalf.
8.2 Final Payment
Final payment must be received by the due date established for the reservation.
Failure to make payment when due may result in:
cancellation of reservations;
forfeiture of deposits;
Supplier penalties;
increased pricing;
loss of availability; or
cancellation of the itinerary.
Cultured Compass is not responsible for losses resulting from late payment by the Client.
8.3 Accepted Payment Methods
Payments may be accepted through various methods, including:
WeTravel;
Squarespace;
Stripe;
ACH;
wire transfer;
secure payment links;
credit card authorization;
direct Supplier payment;
checks (when accepted); and
other payment methods approved by Cultured Compass.
Additional processing fees may apply depending upon the payment method selected.
8.4 Third-Party Payment Platforms
Cultured Compass utilizes third-party platforms and payment processors to facilitate reservations and payment collection.
Depending upon the reservation, payments may be processed through platforms such as WeTravel, Squarespace, Stripe, or directly through independent Suppliers.
The Client acknowledges that these providers maintain separate Terms of Service, Privacy Policies, fraud prevention procedures, and payment processing requirements that may also apply.
Cultured Compass is not responsible for payment holds, fraud reviews, verification requirements, platform outages, payout delays, or other actions of independent payment processors.
8.5 Returned or Declined Payments
The Client remains responsible for all returned payment fees, declined payment charges, bank fees, administrative costs, and any Supplier penalties resulting from unsuccessful payment attempts.
9. Payment Authorizations & Credit Card Authorizations
Cultured Compass offers multiple methods for authorizing reservations and processing payments in order to provide flexibility and convenience to Clients.
9.1 Payment Authorization
The Client authorizes Cultured Compass to process or facilitate payment only after receiving authorization from the Client.
Authorization may be provided through:
electronic signature;
DocuSign;
Credit Card Authorization Forms;
secure online checkout;
WeTravel;
payment of an invoice;
written email authorization;
written text message authorization;
recorded verbal authorization provided by telephone; or
another written or electronic authorization reasonably relied upon by Cultured Compass.
9.2 Telephone Credit Card Authorizations
At the Client's request, payment information may be provided verbally by telephone.
By voluntarily providing payment information over the telephone, the Client authorizes Cultured Compass to use that payment method solely for the travel services approved by the Client.
Cultured Compass may document the authorization through internal records and may subsequently request that the Client execute a written or electronic Credit Card Authorization Form through DocuSign or another secure electronic signature platform for documentation purposes.
9.3 Credit Card Authorization Forms
Cultured Compass may require one or more Credit Card Authorization Forms before processing payments.
Each authorization shall apply only to the transaction(s) described unless otherwise expressly stated.
Separate authorizations may be required for deposits, final payments, airfare, upgrades, itinerary additions, reservation changes, cancellation charges, travel insurance, or other approved travel purchases.
9.4 Direct Supplier Charges
Certain Suppliers may process payments directly.
Where authorized by the Client, Cultured Compass may transmit payment information or completed Credit Card Authorization Forms directly to the applicable Supplier solely for completing approved reservations.
9.5 Booking Methods
Reservations may be confirmed through:
WeTravel;
Squarespace;
supplier booking portals;
direct invoices;
secure payment links;
DocuSign;
Credit Card Authorization Forms;
written email authorization;
or other approved booking methods.
Regardless of the booking or payment method utilized, all reservations arranged by Cultured Compass remain subject to this Agreement unless otherwise expressly agreed in writing.
9.6 Payment Disputes
If the Client believes an error has occurred regarding a payment, the Client agrees to notify Cultured Compass promptly so that the matter may be investigated and, where appropriate, resolved before initiating a payment dispute.
Nothing in this Agreement limits any rights the Client may have under applicable law.
10. Airfare Services
Unless expressly included within a Proposal, airfare is not included within package pricing.
At the Client's request, Cultured Compass may research, recommend, coordinate, or facilitate airfare purchases.
Airfare may be booked:
directly with an airline;
through an airline consolidator;
through a Global Distribution System (GDS);
through an accredited ticketing partner;
through an online booking platform; or
through another approved booking channel.
Airfare pricing changes rapidly and is not guaranteed until ticketed.
Once airline tickets have been issued, changes, cancellations, exchanges, refunds, credits, baggage allowances, seating assignments, schedule changes, and conditions of carriage remain subject solely to the applicable airline's rules and policies.
Cultured Compass cannot waive or modify airline policies.
11. Supplier Relationships
Cultured Compass arranges travel services through independent Suppliers located throughout the world.
These Suppliers include, but are not limited to:
hotels;
resorts;
cruise lines;
airlines;
rail operators;
destination management companies;
transportation providers;
activity providers;
local guides;
travel insurance providers; and
other travel service providers.
Each Supplier operates independently and maintains sole responsibility for its own operations, personnel, pricing, schedules, inventory, safety standards, accommodations, transportation, policies, and performance.
Cultured Compass does not own, operate, manage, supervise, or control independent Suppliers.
Accordingly, Cultured Compass shall not be liable for the acts, omissions, negligence, insolvency, bankruptcy, overbooking, labor disputes, mechanical failures, cancellations, delays, governmental actions, weather events, security incidents, or other conduct of any independent Supplier.
Where reasonably possible, Cultured Compass will advocate on the Client's behalf in seeking refunds, credits, or other resolutions; however, Cultured Compass cannot guarantee that any Supplier will grant exceptions to its policies.
12. Reservation Changes
Travel arrangements frequently involve multiple independent Suppliers with differing policies regarding modifications.
Accordingly, any requested change is subject to:
Supplier approval;
availability;
applicable change fees;
additional airfare;
additional accommodation costs;
increased Supplier pricing;
payment processing costs;
additional planning fees; and
any other costs associated with implementing the requested change.
All requested changes should be submitted in writing.
Cultured Compass will make reasonable efforts to accommodate requested modifications but cannot guarantee that changes will be possible.
Certain reservations—including airfare, boutique accommodations, luxury cruises, eclipse inventory, promotional rates, and private experiences—may be entirely non-changeable after confirmation.
Where a requested modification requires substantial redesign of an itinerary or significant additional planning services, Cultured Compass reserves the right to charge additional professional planning fees, which will be disclosed to the Client before such work is undertaken.
13. Client Responsibilities
Successful travel planning depends upon timely cooperation between the Client, Travelers, Cultured Compass, and independent Suppliers. The Client agrees to actively participate in the planning and booking process and to provide accurate, complete, and timely information.
The Client is responsible for:
reviewing all proposals, itineraries, invoices, confirmations, and travel documents for accuracy;
promptly notifying Cultured Compass of any errors, omissions, or requested corrections;
providing complete and accurate legal names exactly as they appear on government-issued identification or passports;
providing accurate birth dates, contact information, passport information, frequent traveler numbers, emergency contacts, and other information reasonably requested to complete reservations;
advising Cultured Compass of any medical conditions, mobility limitations, accessibility needs, dietary restrictions, allergies, or other circumstances that may affect travel arrangements;
complying with all payment schedules;
obtaining required travel documentation;
complying with Supplier terms and conditions;
arriving at airports, ports, stations, meeting points, and other departure locations at the required times;
monitoring airline schedules and travel notifications after ticket issuance;
maintaining appropriate conduct throughout travel; and
immediately notifying Cultured Compass of any issues that may affect the reservation.
Failure to provide timely information or complete required documentation may result in delays, additional costs, cancellation of reservations, or the inability to travel. Cultured Compass shall not be responsible for losses resulting from incomplete, inaccurate, or untimely information provided by the Client or any Traveler.
14. Travel Insurance
Cultured Compass strongly recommends that every Traveler purchase comprehensive travel insurance covering, at a minimum:
trip cancellation;
trip interruption;
travel delay;
baggage loss or delay;
emergency medical expenses;
emergency medical evacuation;
accidental death and dismemberment;
personal liability, where available; and
other coverage appropriate for the destination and planned activities.
Travel insurance is not included unless expressly stated in the Proposal or itinerary.
When available, Cultured Compass may facilitate access to travel insurance offered by independent insurance providers. Cultured Compass is not an insurance company and does not underwrite, administer, interpret, or guarantee any insurance policy.
The Client is solely responsible for reviewing policy terms, coverage limits, exclusions, pre-existing condition requirements, eligibility requirements, claim procedures, and cancellation provisions before purchasing insurance.
The Client acknowledges that declining travel insurance may expose the Client to significant financial loss in the event of cancellation, medical emergency, travel disruption, supplier insolvency, natural disaster, political unrest, or other unforeseen circumstances.
Where travel insurance is offered and declined, Cultured Compass may require the Client or each adult Traveler to execute a written Travel Insurance Declination Acknowledgement.
15. Passports, Visas, Entry Requirements & Health
Each Traveler is solely responsible for obtaining and maintaining all documents required for travel.
These may include, but are not limited to:
passports;
visas;
residency documentation;
vaccination records;
health certificates;
parental consent documentation;
customs declarations;
electronic travel authorizations;
proof of onward travel; and
any other documentation required by government authorities, transportation providers, or Suppliers.
Unless otherwise advised by Cultured Compass in writing, passports should generally remain valid for at least six (6) months beyond the completion of travel and contain sufficient blank pages for entry and exit stamps. Entry requirements vary by destination, nationality, and individual circumstances, and it is the Traveler's responsibility to verify current requirements before departure.
Cultured Compass may provide general information regarding passport, visa, health, vaccination, customs, or entry requirements as a courtesy; however, such information is provided for informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as legal, immigration, medical, or governmental advice.
The Client acknowledges that government requirements may change without notice and agrees to verify all applicable requirements with the appropriate government authorities prior to travel.
Cultured Compass shall not be responsible for denied boarding, denied entry, deportation, missed travel arrangements, additional expenses, or other losses resulting from incomplete, expired, inaccurate, or missing travel documentation.
16. Destination-Specific Acknowledgements
Certain destinations, activities, or travel experiences may present elevated risks due to political conditions, health concerns, environmental factors, remote locations, adventure activities, or other circumstances.
For such travel, Cultured Compass may require one or more Travelers to execute additional destination-specific acknowledgements, waivers, or assumption of risk documents.
These acknowledgements supplement this Agreement and are incorporated herein by reference.
Egypt Travel Acknowledgement
The Client acknowledges that travel to Egypt involves unique risks that may include, but are not limited to:
political instability;
terrorism;
civil unrest;
heightened security measures;
transportation disruptions;
extreme temperatures;
infectious disease exposure;
differing medical standards;
infrastructure limitations;
government actions; and
other risks associated with international travel.
The Client acknowledges that Cultured Compass has encouraged review of current travel advisories issued by the applicable government authorities, including the U.S. Department of State (or the equivalent authority for non-U.S. Travelers), prior to confirming travel.
The Client voluntarily elects to travel to Egypt with full knowledge that travel conditions may change before or during the trip.
Changes in travel advisories, government recommendations, political conditions, or perceived safety concerns do not automatically entitle the Client to cancel, modify, or receive refunds outside the applicable Supplier cancellation policies and this Agreement.
Each adult Traveler may be required to separately execute an Egypt Travel Acknowledgement prior to departure.
17. Cancellation Before Supplier Confirmation
Cultured Compass begins performing professional planning, research, consultation, itinerary development, supplier coordination, and administrative work immediately upon engagement.
These professional services create value independent of whether travel ultimately occurs.
Accordingly, if the Client cancels the travel engagement before Cultured Compass has confirmed reservations with any Supplier, the Client shall be entitled to a refund of monies paid less a non-refundable Professional Planning, Processing & Administrative Fee of One Thousand Dollars (US $1,000) per cancelling Traveler, together with any third-party payment processing fees that cannot be recovered.
This fee represents compensation for professional services already performed, including consultation, itinerary design, supplier sourcing, reservation coordination, pricing negotiations, administrative work, and other planning services, and is not intended as a penalty.
If the value of professional services already performed exceeds the amount paid by the Client, Cultured Compass reserves the right to invoice the Client for any unpaid balance, subject to applicable law and any written fee agreement between the parties.
18. Cancellation After Supplier Confirmation
Once Cultured Compass has confirmed one or more reservations with independent Suppliers, the reservation becomes subject to the cancellation policies of the applicable Supplier(s), in addition to this Agreement.
The Client acknowledges that many travel services—including luxury accommodations, boutique cruises, private guides, event tickets, airfare, eclipse inventory, and other limited-availability experiences—become partially or entirely non-refundable immediately upon confirmation.
Cancellation requests must be submitted in writing by the Primary Purchaser.
The effective date of cancellation shall be the date written notice is received by Cultured Compass.
Cancellation penalties may include:
forfeiture of deposits;
Supplier cancellation fees;
non-refundable airfare;
non-refundable accommodations;
planning fees;
administrative fees;
payment processing fees;
taxes or governmental fees that cannot be recovered; and
any other non-refundable amounts imposed by Suppliers.
Cancellation of one Traveler within a shared reservation may also affect pricing applicable to the remaining Travelers.
19. Supplier Refunds, Credits & Client Advocacy
Cultured Compass will make reasonable efforts to advocate on the Client's behalf when requesting refunds, credits, waivers, exceptions, or other accommodations from independent Suppliers following a cancellation or travel disruption.
The Client acknowledges, however, that all refund decisions remain solely within the discretion of the applicable Supplier.
Cultured Compass cannot guarantee that any Supplier will approve a refund, credit, or exception to its published policies.
If Cultured Compass receives refundable monies from a Supplier on behalf of the Client, such amounts will generally be remitted to the Client after deduction of:
the applicable Professional Planning, Processing & Administrative Fee;
any additional earned professional planning or consulting fees;
non-refundable payment processing fees;
bank charges or wire fees;
administrative costs incurred in processing the cancellation;
and any other amounts expressly identified as non-refundable under this Agreement or the applicable Proposal.
Unless otherwise required by law, commissions earned, planning fees, consulting fees, itinerary design fees, and other compensation earned by Cultured Compass for services already performed are non-refundable.
The Client acknowledges that recovered Supplier refunds may be substantially less than the total amount originally paid and, in certain cases, no Supplier refund may be available.
Where a Supplier issues a future travel credit rather than a cash refund, Cultured Compass will communicate the applicable terms, expiration dates, transferability restrictions, and other conditions provided by the Supplier. Cultured Compass is not responsible for the issuance, expiration, redemption, or value of Supplier-issued travel credits.
20. Client Advocacy
Cultured Compass is committed to providing professional support and reasonable advocacy on behalf of the Client throughout the planning, booking, and travel process.
When an issue arises involving a Supplier, reservation, payment, cancellation, travel disruption, or requested accommodation, Cultured Compass may, as appropriate:
communicate with the applicable Supplier;
request corrections, refunds, credits, waivers, upgrades, or policy exceptions;
assist with documenting the Client’s concerns;
coordinate alternative travel arrangements;
provide available information regarding Supplier policies;
and use commercially reasonable efforts to support resolution of the matter.
The Client acknowledges that Cultured Compass does not control independent Suppliers, insurers, financial institutions, payment processors, government authorities, or other third parties. Accordingly, Cultured Compass cannot guarantee that any third party will provide a refund, credit, waiver, upgrade, compensation, policy exception, or other requested resolution.
Client advocacy is a professional service and does not create an obligation for Cultured Compass to personally fund refunds, replacements, accommodations, or other compensation owed or denied by an independent Supplier.
Cultured Compass may require payment of additional professional service fees where a post-booking matter requires substantial work beyond the services included in the applicable Proposal, including extensive itinerary reconstruction, prolonged claims assistance, or management of issues not caused by Cultured Compass. Any such fee will be disclosed before the additional work is undertaken whenever reasonably practicable.
21. Force Majeure
Cultured Compass shall not be responsible or liable for any failure, delay, interruption, modification, cancellation, or inability to perform caused by events or circumstances beyond its reasonable control.
Such events may include, without limitation:
severe weather;
hurricanes, earthquakes, floods, wildfires, volcanic activity, or other natural disasters;
epidemics, pandemics, quarantines, or public-health emergencies;
war, invasion, terrorism, civil unrest, political instability, or military action;
governmental orders, border closures, visa restrictions, or changes in entry requirements;
strikes, labor disputes, or transportation shutdowns;
airspace closures;
utility, telecommunications, or internet failures;
cybersecurity incidents;
Supplier insolvency or cessation of operations;
airport, port, rail, road, or infrastructure closures;
mechanical failures;
changes in law or regulation;
and any other event that could not reasonably have been prevented or controlled by Cultured Compass.
A Force Majeure Event does not automatically entitle the Client to a refund.
Refunds, credits, rebooking options, or other remedies arising from a Force Majeure Event remain subject to:
the terms of the applicable Supplier;
the terms of any travel insurance policy;
amounts actually recovered from Suppliers;
and the cancellation and refund provisions of this Agreement.
Cultured Compass may make reasonable adjustments to an itinerary when necessary to address a Force Majeure Event, protect Traveler safety, preserve the essential character of the trip, or comply with Supplier or governmental requirements.
Any additional costs arising from such adjustments—including replacement accommodations, transportation, meals, airfare, extended stays, or itinerary changes—shall be the responsibility of the Client unless paid by a Supplier, insurer, or other third party.
22. Assumption of Risk
Travel involves inherent risks, including risks that cannot be eliminated even through careful planning.
These risks may include, without limitation:
illness, injury, disability, or death;
infectious disease exposure;
foodborne or waterborne illness;
accidents involving aircraft, vehicles, vessels, trains, animals, or recreational equipment;
crime, theft, assault, terrorism, or civil unrest;
natural disasters and severe weather;
altitude, heat, cold, terrain, wildlife, and environmental hazards;
limited or delayed access to medical care;
unfamiliar laws, customs, and cultural conditions;
communication and infrastructure limitations;
and negligence or misconduct by independent Suppliers or other third parties.
The Client and each Traveler voluntarily assume the ordinary and reasonably foreseeable risks associated with their chosen destination, itinerary, transportation, accommodations, activities, and travel services.
The Client is responsible for evaluating whether each Traveler is physically, medically, and emotionally capable of participating in the planned travel.
Cultured Compass may provide general destination or activity information but does not provide medical, legal, security, or emergency-management advice.
Nothing in this Agreement is intended to waive liability that cannot legally be waived under applicable law.
23. Limitation of Liability
To the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, Cultured Compass shall be responsible only for direct losses caused by its own proven negligence, willful misconduct, or material breach of this Agreement.
Cultured Compass shall not be liable for the independent acts, omissions, negligence, misconduct, insolvency, delay, cancellation, or failure of any Supplier, payment processor, insurer, government authority, transportation provider, or other third party.
To the fullest extent permitted by law, Cultured Compass shall not be liable for:
indirect, incidental, consequential, exemplary, punitive, or special damages;
lost profits, lost income, lost business opportunities, or loss of enjoyment;
emotional distress or inconvenience;
missed connections or unused portions of travel;
loss, theft, or damage to baggage or personal property;
personal injury, illness, disability, or death caused by independent Suppliers or inherent travel risks;
or additional expenses caused by delays, cancellations, schedule changes, or events beyond Cultured Compass’s reasonable control.
Except where prohibited by law, the total aggregate liability of Cultured Compass arising out of or relating to a particular booking shall not exceed the greater of:
the professional planning and service fees actually paid directly to and retained by Cultured Compass for that booking; or
One Thousand Dollars (US $1,000).
Amounts paid to or held for independent Suppliers, insurers, governmental entities, or payment processors shall not be considered fees paid to Cultured Compass for purposes of calculating this limitation.
This section does not limit liability for fraud, willful misconduct, or any liability that cannot legally be limited.
24. Billing Disputes & Chargebacks
The Client agrees to carefully review all invoices, receipts, statements, payment schedules, and transaction confirmations.
If the Client believes that a payment was unauthorized, duplicated, incorrectly processed, or otherwise disputed, the Client agrees to promptly contact Cultured Compass and provide a reasonable opportunity to investigate and address the matter.
Nothing in this Agreement waives or restricts any lawful right the Client may have to dispute a billing error with a card issuer, bank, payment processor, or governmental authority. Consumers may have statutory rights regarding credit-card billing disputes, and this Agreement should not be interpreted to eliminate those rights.
The Client agrees not to knowingly characterize an authorized transaction as fraudulent merely because:
the Client later decides not to travel;
a Traveler voluntarily withdraws;
a Supplier denies a refund;
a reservation is non-refundable;
a trip is modified or disrupted;
or the Client is dissatisfied with a Supplier’s services.
In responding to a payment dispute, Cultured Compass may provide the card issuer, financial institution, payment processor, Supplier, insurer, or other relevant party with documentation reasonably necessary to demonstrate authorization and services performed, including:
this Agreement;
signed Credit Card Authorization Forms;
electronic signatures;
invoices and receipts;
payment records;
itinerary and Proposal approvals;
emails and text communications;
Supplier confirmations;
cancellation policies;
traveler registrations;
planning records;
and evidence of services performed.
If a payment is reversed, withheld, or charged back and the transaction is later determined to have been validly authorized, the Client remains responsible for the unpaid amount, together with any non-refundable Supplier obligations and reasonable third-party fees incurred by Cultured Compass, to the extent permitted by law.
25. Privacy & Electronic Communications
Cultured Compass collects and uses personal information reasonably necessary to plan, reserve, administer, and support travel.
This information may include:
legal names;
birth dates;
contact information;
passport and identification details;
loyalty-program information;
emergency contacts;
dietary, mobility, accessibility, or accommodation needs;
payment authorization information;
and other information required by Suppliers or government authorities.
The Client authorizes Cultured Compass to disclose relevant personal information to Suppliers, insurers, payment processors, technology providers, professional advisors, and governmental authorities when reasonably necessary to provide the Travel Services, complete authorized transactions, comply with legal obligations, or protect the rights and safety of the parties.
The Primary Purchaser represents that they have permission to provide personal information concerning each additional Traveler.
Cultured Compass will use commercially reasonable measures to safeguard Client information but cannot guarantee absolute security of information transmitted or stored electronically.
The Client acknowledges that information may be processed or stored by third-party providers located in the United States or other countries and may be subject to the laws and privacy practices applicable in those jurisdictions.
25.1 Electronic Communications
The Client consents to receive booking-related communications electronically, including by:
email;
text message;
electronic signature platform;
WeTravel;
secure client portal;
online invoice;
and other electronic communication methods used by Cultured Compass.
Electronic communications may include proposals, invoices, payment reminders, confirmations, itinerary updates, waivers, travel documents, cancellation notices, and other information relating to the booking.
The Client is responsible for:
providing accurate contact information;
monitoring email, text messages, spam folders, and booking platforms;
promptly reviewing electronic documents;
and notifying Cultured Compass of any change in contact information.
The Client may request paper copies of electronically delivered documents, although reasonable printing, shipping, or administrative fees may apply.
26. Photography, Video & Client Content
Cultured Compass will not publicly use identifiable photographs, video recordings, testimonials, or personal travel content featuring a Client or Traveler for advertising or promotional purposes without permission.
Permission may be obtained through:
a separate written release;
an electronic consent form;
email approval;
a social-media message;
or another written authorization.
Where permission is granted, the Client authorizes Cultured Compass to use the approved content for the purposes and within the channels described in that authorization, which may include:
the Cultured Compass website;
social media;
newsletters;
printed marketing materials;
presentations;
and promotional communications.
The Client represents that they have authority to grant permission for any content they submit to Cultured Compass.
Permission to use content may be withdrawn prospectively by written notice. Withdrawal will not require Cultured Compass to recall or destroy materials already printed, published, distributed, or incorporated into completed marketing materials before receipt of the withdrawal.
Independent Suppliers, tour operators, guides, photographers, resorts, cruise lines, or activity providers may maintain separate photography or media policies. Cultured Compass is not responsible for the photography practices of independent Suppliers.
27. Governing Law & Venue
This Agreement shall be governed by and interpreted in accordance with the laws of the State of Oregon, without regard to conflict-of-law principles.
Subject to any mandatory consumer-protection, small-claims, or jurisdictional rights that cannot lawfully be waived, any legal action arising out of or relating to this Agreement or the Travel Services shall be brought in a state or federal court having jurisdiction in the Oregon county in which Cultured Compass maintains its principal place of business at the time the action is filed.
Each party consents to the personal jurisdiction of such courts.
Nothing in this section prevents either party from pursuing an eligible claim in small-claims court or seeking temporary or emergency equitable relief where appropriate.
Attorney drafting note: Insert the intended county by name once counsel confirms the proper venue language. Oregon statutes contain default venue rules, so counsel should verify that the contractual venue provision aligns with those rules and any applicable consumer protections.
28. Severability
If any provision of this Agreement is determined by a court or other authority of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable, that provision shall be enforced to the maximum extent permitted by law or, if necessary, severed from the Agreement.
The remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect.
Where legally permissible, an invalid or unenforceable provision shall be interpreted or modified as narrowly as necessary to most closely reflect the original intent of the parties.
29. Entire Agreement
This Agreement, together with the applicable Proposal, invoice, payment schedule, itinerary, Credit Card Authorization Form, Traveler Acknowledgement, destination-specific acknowledgement, Supplier terms, and any other document expressly incorporated by reference, constitutes the entire agreement between the Client and Cultured Compass concerning the applicable Travel Services.
It supersedes all prior or contemporaneous oral and written discussions, representations, proposals, understandings, and agreements relating to the same services, except where expressly preserved in writing.
If a conflict exists between documents, the following order of priority shall apply unless expressly stated otherwise:
Any subsequent written or electronic amendment mutually accepted by Cultured Compass and the Primary Purchaser;
The applicable Proposal or booking-specific terms;
This Agreement;
Any incorporated exhibit or acknowledgement;
The applicable Supplier terms.
Supplier terms shall continue to control matters exclusively within the Supplier's authority, including its own cancellation, refund, transportation, accommodation, operational, and service policies, subject to applicable law.
29.1 Amendments & Modifications
This Agreement may be amended or supplemented through written or electronic communications, revised Proposals, updated booking terms, or other documented agreements mutually accepted by Cultured Compass and the Primary Purchaser.
A separate handwritten or electronic signature is not required for an amendment to become effective unless expressly required by applicable law or the parties.
Acceptance of an amendment may be demonstrated through:
Written or electronic confirmation;
Approval of a revised Proposal or booking arrangement;
Acceptance through an online booking platform;
Payment made in response to an amendment clearly identifying the revised terms;
An affirmative instruction to proceed after receiving notice of the proposed amendment; or
Other documented conduct clearly indicating agreement to the amended terms.
Any amendment must be communicated to the Client and accepted through a legally sufficient method before becoming binding.
Silence, failure to object, or continued use of services alone shall not automatically constitute acceptance of a material amendment.
29.2 Changes to Website Policies & Future Engagements
Cultured Compass may periodically update its general website policies, standard service terms, and Booking Agreement for future engagements.
Unless otherwise mutually agreed or permitted by applicable law, changes to the standard Booking Agreement shall not retroactively modify the material pricing, payment, cancellation, refund, or liability provisions governing an existing confirmed booking.
Updated terms may apply to new engagements or future reservations when appropriately disclosed and accepted.
29.3 No Waiver
Failure by either party to enforce any provision of this Agreement shall not constitute a waiver of that provision or the right to enforce it in the future.
Any waiver shall apply only to the specific circumstances for which it is granted, unless otherwise expressly agreed.
30. Acceptance of Agreement & Engagement of Services
30.1 Acceptance Through Engagement
A separate handwritten or electronic signature is not required to accept this Agreement, except where expressly required by applicable law, an independent Supplier, or Cultured Compass for a particular service.
By engaging Cultured Compass for Travel Services after receiving reasonable notice of and access to this Agreement, and taking an action that clearly indicates acceptance of its terms, the Client agrees to be bound by this Agreement.
Such actions may include:
Requesting or authorizing Cultured Compass to begin professional travel planning or itinerary development.
Approving a travel Proposal, itinerary, or quotation.
Instructing Cultured Compass to secure, modify, or administer travel reservations.
Submitting a deposit, planning fee, or other payment in response to a booking request incorporating this Agreement.
Completing an online booking or checkout process that clearly incorporates this Agreement.
Confirming acceptance by email, text message, or another documented communication.
Otherwise expressly agreeing to proceed with Travel Services after being informed that doing so constitutes acceptance of this Agreement.
Mere website browsing, submitting an initial inquiry, or requesting general information does not, by itself, constitute acceptance of this Agreement.
30.2 Opportunity to Review
Cultured Compass will make this Agreement reasonably available to the Client before requesting acceptance.
The Client is encouraged to review the Agreement carefully and ask questions before proceeding.
30.3 Electronic & Written Communications
The Client agrees that electronic communications, documented booking instructions, online checkout records, and other affirmative acts may serve as evidence of acceptance where permitted by applicable law.
The absence of a separately signed document does not, by itself, invalidate an otherwise properly formed agreement.
30.4 Additional Documentation
Cultured Compass reserves the right to require separate signatures, acknowledgements, payment authorizations, or waivers for certain reservations, destinations, activities, or Supplier requirements.
30.5 Binding Effect
Once validly accepted, this Agreement governs the applicable Travel Services and remains effective throughout the planning, booking, travel, and post-travel service process, subject to its terms and applicable law.