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Terms & Conditions

IBMT TOURS – GENERAL TERMS & CONDITIONS

PLEASE READ THESE TERMS AND CONDITIONS CAREFULLY. By booking any travel services, making a deposit, or submitting payment to IBMT Tours (“IBMT,” “we,” “us,” or “our”), you (“Passenger,” “Client,” “you,” or “your”) agree to be bound by these Terms & Conditions.

1. RESERVATIONS & BOOKING

  • Booking Procedures: Reservations may be made online at ibmttours.com, by phone at (877) 977-4268, or through a registered travel agent.
  • Deposits: A non-refundable deposit ranging from $250 USD to $450 USD per person (depending on the tour type) is required at the time of booking to secure a reservation.

2. PAYMENTS & PRICING

  • Pricing Basis: All prices are per person based on double/twin room occupancy unless otherwise noted. Single room occupancy requires payment of a Single Supplement.
  • Price Modifications & Currency Fluctuations: Prices are based on tariffs, airfares, exchange rates, and fuel costs in effect at the time of publication. IBMT reserves the right to adjust prices at any time prior to final payment without notice.
    • If the US Dollar devalues by 5% or more relative to local tour currencies, IBMT reserves the right to pass this increase on to the Passenger.
    • If IBMT notifies you of a price increase exceeding 10% of the total land tour price, you may cancel in writing within five (5) calendar days of notification for a full refund of payments made. Failure to cancel in writing within 5 days constitutes acceptance of the price increase.
  • Exclusions: Prices do not include airfare (unless specified), passport/visa fees, travel insurance, personal expenses (laundry, beverages, meals not specified), phone/internet fees, excess baggage fees, tips/gratuities, foreign port taxes, or local bed/tourist taxes payable directly to hotels.
  • Errors: In the event of human, typographical, or technical pricing errors, IBMT reserves the right to correct the error and re-invoice at the correct price or cancel the booking with a full refund.
  • Payment Deadlines:
    • Final Payment: Due as specified on your official booking invoice (typically 60 to 90 days prior to departure depending on the package/cruise).
    • Last-Minute Bookings: Bookings made within 30 days of departure must be paid in full immediately via credit card, certified check, or wire transfer. All bookings must be fully paid no later than 15 days prior to departure.
  • Late Payments: Failure to make final payment by the due date will result in automatic cancellation of your reservation and forfeiture of all non-refundable deposits. A $50 USD service reinstatement fee applies to reconfirm cancelled services, subject to availability.
  • Forms of Payment & Fees:
    • We accept major credit/debit cards, bank wire transfers, direct deposits, and checks (US/Canadian funds).
    • Processing Fees: A 3% merchant fee may apply to credit card transactions where permitted by law.
    • Wire Transfers: Must include an additional $25 USD wire transfer fee.
    • Returned Checks: A $50 USD service fee applies to any returned check.

3. CANCELLATION & REFUND POLICY

All cancellations must be submitted in writing via email to info@ibmtours.com and must include the reservation number, full name, and departure date. Cancellations are effective on the business day received by IBMT. If you do not receive a written confirmation from IBMT within 48 hours, you must call (877) 977-4268 to confirm receipt.

A. General Land Packages & Escorted Tours

  • Deposits: 100% NON-REFUNDABLE upon receipt. (Deposits may be applied as a future travel credit for up to 12 months from the original booking date for a new tour).
  • 61+ Days Prior to Departure: Payments exceeding the non-refundable deposit will be refunded. Date changes requested 61+ days prior are subject to a $75 USD per person administrative fee plus supplier costs.
  • 60 Days or Fewer Prior to Departure: 100% NON-REFUNDABLE. All land services, transfers, and packages are strictly non-refundable and non-transferable.

B. Group Bookings, Cruises, & Special Events

  • Groups & Cruises: Payments become 100% NON-REFUNDABLE between 60 and 90 days prior to departure (as stated on your specific invoice).
  • Special Events / Holiday Sailings: Final payment and cancellation terms may be accelerated and will be explicitly stated on your invoice.

C. Airline Tickets

  • All airfares booked through IBMT are subject to the strict rules, terms, and cancellation policies of the issuing airline. Once issued, airline tickets are 100% NON-REFUNDABLE and NON-TRANSFERABLE.

D. Specific Policy Update – Israel Tour Programs

Due to regional security conditions, the following terms apply specifically to IBMT Israel tour programs:

  1. Weekly / Guaranteed Departure Tours: Passengers may elect to:
    • Transfer 100% of monies paid to a future departure date valid through December 31, 2027; OR
    • Receive a full refund of monies paid, less a $300 USD per person administrative fee.
  2. Group Bookings: Clients may transfer monies paid to a future departure date through December 31, 2027, or contact IBMT directly. Specific group contracts may dictate alternative terms.

4. TRAVEL DOCUMENTS, PASSPORTS, AND VISAS

  • Passenger Responsibility: Passports must be valid for at least six (6) months beyond the conclusion of your travel. It is the Passenger's sole responsibility to obtain all required visas, permits, entry/exit clearances, and health certificates prior to departure.
  • Disclaimer: Information provided by IBMT regarding passport/visa requirements applies solely to US and Canadian citizens unless otherwise stated. IBMT is not liable for boarding denials, entry delays, or deportation caused by improper documentation. No refunds will be provided for unused services due to documentation issues.

5. TRAVEL INSURANCE

IBMT TOURS STRONGLY RECOMMENDS THAT ALL TRAVELLERS PURCHASE COMPREHENSIVE TRAVEL INSURANCE. Insurance should cover trip cancellation, interruption, medical expenses, emergency evacuation, and baggage loss. IBMT is not liable for costs, medical fees, or cancellation losses incurred by uninsured passengers.

6. REVISION FEES & AMENDMENTS

Any change requested on a confirmed reservation (including name updates, date shifts, or service removals) will incur a $75 USD per person fee, plus any supplier penalty charges.

  • Name Changes: Name changes on airline reservations are generally treated as full cancellations and re-bookings by airlines, subject to current availability and airfare rates.
  • Deviations: Any custom itinerary change from the published tour program incurs a $150 USD per person deviation fee, plus applicable air and land cost adjustments.

7. AIR TRANSPORTATION

  • Independent Carrier Rules: Air transportation is provided by independent commercial airlines. Flight schedules, routings, and seat assignments are under the sole control of the carrier and subject to change without notice.
  • Schedule Changes & Missed Connections: IBMT is not responsible for airline schedule changes, flight delays, cancelled flights, lost baggage, or missed connections. Any fees or replacement airfare costs are the sole responsibility of the Passenger.
  • Baggage Fees: Checked baggage policies and fees are set directly by each airline and are not included in IBMT package prices unless specified.

8. ACCOMMODATIONS & MEALS

  • Hotels: Standard rooms (twin or double bedding) are provided unless an upgrade is purchased. Hotel check-in is typically after 4:00 PM and check-out is before 12:00 PM. Air conditioning in international properties may differ from North American standards and is controlled by local property policies.
  • Substitutions: IBMT reserves the right to substitute hotels or cruise vessels with properties of equal or higher standard without notice or price adjustment.
  • Meals: Included meals are specified in each itinerary (set menu or buffet). Beverages are generally not included. Special dietary requests must be submitted in writing at least 72 hours prior to departure; IBMT will make reasonable attempts to notify suppliers, but special requests cannot be guaranteed.

9. TRANSFERS, SIGHTSEEING, & UNUSED SERVICES

  • Airport Transfers: Guaranteed up to one (1) hour past the scheduled flight arrival time. If delays occur due to flight interruptions, customs, or lost baggage, the Passenger must arrange independent local transport at their own expense. Transfer fees are non-refundable.
  • Unused Services: No refunds, credits, or exchanges will be given for any unused tour features, including missed transfers, unused hotel nights, meals, rail passes, or sightseeing tours, regardless of the reason for non-participation.

10. PASSENGER CONDUCT, ACCESSIBILITY, & SAFETY

  • Group Harmony & Removal: IBMT reserves the absolute right to decline, accept, or remove any individual whose behavior is deemed disruptive, aggressive, dangerous, or incompatible with the safety and enjoyment of the group. All costs associated with removal and early return travel will be borne entirely by the Passenger, without refund.
  • Passengers with Disabilities / Special Needs: Escorted tours are fast-paced and require significant walking over uneven terrain. International facilities, transportation, and buses are not subject to the US ADA and may lack ramps or accessibility equipment.
    • Passengers requiring physical assistance must disclose their needs in writing prior to booking and must travel with a qualified companion capable of providing all necessary aid. Tour staff (guides, drivers) are strictly prohibited from providing personal physical assistance.
    • Service animals cannot be accommodated on international escorted tours.
  • Minor Travelers: Passengers under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Minimum age for escorted tours/cruises is 4 years old. Minors traveling with one parent or a legal guardian should carry a notarized letter of consent.

11. TOUR CANCELLATION BY IBMT

  • Minimum Group Numbers: Escorted tours rely on a minimum number of participants. IBMT reserves the right to cancel any under-subscribed tour up to 60 days prior to departure.
  • Remedies for IBMT Cancellation: If IBMT cancels a tour due to low enrollment, IBMT will offer an alternative travel date or a full refund of the land package price only. IBMT is not liable for non-refundable airline tickets, visa fees, or independent travel expenses incurred by the passenger.

12. FORCE MAJEURE & LIMITATION OF LIABILITY

  • Force Majeure: IBMT shall not be liable, nor deemed in breach of these terms, for failure or delay in performance caused by events beyond its reasonable control, including but not limited to: Acts of God, war, acts of terrorism, civil unrest, strikes, government restrictions, epidemics/pandemics, regional conflicts, extreme weather, or natural disasters.
  • Independent Suppliers: IBMT acts solely as an agent in booking accommodations, transportation, sightseeing, and other travel services provided by independent third-party suppliers. IBMT does not own, manage, or operate these suppliers and assumes NO LIABILITY for personal injury, property damage, loss, accident, delay, or irregularity caused by any act, omission, or negligence of any third-party supplier.
  • Maximum Liability: Under no circumstances shall IBMT’s total liability to any passenger exceed the total amount paid by the passenger to IBMT for the land tour package.

13. CLAIMS & DISPUTE RESOLUTION

  • Notice of Claims: Any claim, dispute, or customer service complaint regarding a tour must be submitted in writing to IBMT within 30 days of the completed travel date (15 days for river cruises). Claims submitted after this window will be deemed waived and time-barred.
  • Governing Law & Jurisdiction: These Terms & Conditions and any disputes arising hereunder shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the jurisdiction where IBMT Tours maintains its principal place of business, without regard to conflict of law principles. All legal actions must be brought in the courts of that jurisdiction.

Acceptance of Terms

Payment of a deposit or full balance serves as your explicit legal confirmation that you have read, understood, and unconditionally accepted all terms, conditions, disclaimers, and policies outlined above.

TestimonialsTestimonials

We went on a church group to the Holyland with IBMT Tours and had a great trip, everything was planned for us perfectly. There was over 123 people in four different bus groups and things went smoothly, I thought it was going to be hectic with that many people in the group but IBMT did a wonderful job and made sure the buses did not go convoy, every bus had its own time table and itinerary for the day, our guide Dani was so knowledgeable and loving. We love you IBMT and we will recommend you guys. Thanks for everything you have done for us.

For years, it had been a deep desire of mine to lead a group of pilgrims to the Holy Land.  I’m not sure how it happened (perhaps the grace of God), but I ended up working with Israel Biblical Mission Tours (IBMT) and specifically Ornan Sharaby.   Because I had never led a group like this before, I needed guidance.  Ornan and his team were wonderfully helpful.  They answered all my questions, and never seemed irritated when I called or emailed with what some might have considered a “Silly question.”  Then, when it was close to departure time, I had some apprehensions.  Ornan assured me that he had taken care of everything.  On the day of our departure, we (a group of 27) had no issues whatsoever.  As predicted, everything was “Taken care of.”  The flight experience was good.

Upon our arrival in Israel, the bus and the guide were waiting for us, took us to our Hotel, and we slept well.  We departed on our experience the next morning. 

As we progressed day by day, my wife and I were extremely pleased (as was the entire group).  Every detail of our trip was laid out, and we were treated so very well by everyone.  We experienced no difficulties at all.  It was truly better than we had anticipated.  My compliments to IBMT, and to Ornan and his team.  I simply cannot imagine things going any better.  Our itinerary was wonderful, our bus, and driver were phenomenal, and our guide was friendly, fun, and extremely knowledgeable.  They all made sure that we had an incredible Holy Experience…and we DID!

Every single member of our trip was overwhelmed with the experience, and went out of their way to tell me that their Holy Land Pilgrimage exceeded their expectations. 

Finally, on our last day in Israel, our driver and our guide, expressed their appreciation to us, and made sure that we arrived at the airport on time, and then our guide took up to the right place and helped us get checked in. 

I therefore, with no trepidation whatsoever, very highly recommend IBMT and Mr. Ornan Sharaby when you plan your Holy Land experience.  You could not be in better hands.

Sincerely,
Pastor Stan Patterson
Church 213  Covington, Georgia

This was an incredible tour of Israel with IBMT Tours and I loved the additional trip to Petra as well. We had a very knowledgeable guide from Israel who gave us an extensive explanation of everything we saw in Israel. All of the hotels I stayed in were great with comfortable beds and wonderful buffet breakfasts!!

Dear Brother Ornan and Brother Thomas,

We, KBCUSA had a wonderful time with IBMT Holy Land Tour in November 2014. It was really great joy for our group, the members of Karen Baptist Churches USA. You have fulfilled our great expectation to visit the Holy Land. We all appreciate for your well arrangement for excellent hotels, Tours and the tour guide and the drivers as well. Especially we appreciate for your kind arrangement from Canada even we were on the Tour in Israel and the warmly and kind assists of Mr. Thomas Portmann who taking care of us as his family. We really enjoy the trip with IBMT. And this year, we will be going to Israel with your Tour again. I would like to invite you to visit and present about the upcoming tour at our KBCUSA annual meeting which will be held in Buffalo in July 23-15, 2015. We expect about 500 people at the conference. 

Thanks and God bless you.

My trip to the Holy Land Israel

It is a dream trip is a desired journey, but God is the one who knows when your turn is and when is your time. Since I was at a young age I always wanted to know the world. I thought where Jesus was born, my love for God and my faith; it grew and grew inside of me and with it to know the steps of Jesus. I dreamed about knowing of what I have always heard where Jesus was born, where the Angel Gabriel came to the Virgin Mary and to know where Jesus was born and suffered so much on his way with the cross. Well my dream came true and even more because I received a wonderful grace of the Lord that I know that everyone that visit those distant and blessed lands of the lord receive with open arms and those who seeks him receive his blessing if you come with open heart. It happened I went in the search of my heart to have an encounter with the Lord and I found it, I meet where he walked, where he suffer, where he celebrated his last dinner even where he was born and was happy healing the poor and those who knew of him.

One day my daughter Paloma tells me Mom go to Holy Land, go to Israel she said because she knows that in my heart I knew that I had this thirst the one that it will not heal with any water only with the water that only the Lord knows how to take away. I stared at her and I said to her ok Paloma I want to go, she stood up like guided by the Holy Spirit and immediately started to make arrangements. I still did not understand that God used her so that I can go in search of him, that he had plans for me.

She like the Sheppard contacted Mr. Ornan at Holyland Tours and it was the best decision since we wanted to find the right person to do a religious tour, but I turn up short because it was not only a religious tour with the content discipline and knowledge of the history that our tour guide made this experience masterly

I know that everything was prepared by this gentleman, the attention, the good service offered by Mr. Ornan, and after arriving to my first destination Tel Aviv I was to be reunited with my group and to begin our crossing it was something wonderful a trip that I will never forget and without being afraid of being wrong with my age 47 years old it was the best trip I ever had.

1. The places we visit like Caesaria, Haifa Acre, Tiberías. Capernaum, Banias, Nazareth, Beit Shean, Jerusalém and Massada. These where places that where impregnated in my heart and specially the Old City where I had the divine experience with the lord, where I felt that God touched my heart where I felt that I was not there by accident that I was in this place because God had a plan for me.

I invite everyone that have not yet been to visit these holy places and the land of God to go, to give yourself this wonderful gift because this will change your life and heart, we know how we arrive but we do not know how we will leave. It is so that I assure you that if you arrive with your hearts open and are willing to let god fill you with love you will receive his blessing not only for yourself but for your family as well, give yourself this gift and let god heal you and blessed your heart and give yourself the opportunity to Walk in the Footsteps of Jesus

Dear Thomas:

It was my intention to write to you upon returning from Israel, to tell you how awesome and wonderful the tour turned out to be.

Thomas, I am still in awe of the modernity and beauty of Israel , even though I know that my level of enjoyment and excitement there could have been much less were my cousin and I not fortunate enough to have the intelligence, knowledgeable and dedicated tour guide that Doron Kaufman was / is. I took a total of 1,750 photos; I will be making a photobook from them.

About our guide Doron — He was always pleasant (smiling) and caring, the best tour guide I have ever experienced. His impartation of what he knows about Israel is in its own ilk and he made every trip seem special.

It will interest you to know that I’ve been selling Israel to all my friends, work colleagues and family, telling all how safe I felt under the guidance of your representative and for them to be sure to book a trip there at some time via IBMT Tours’ Thomas Portman. I also encouraged each to ensure t that their tour guide be none other than Doron Kaufman.

So, until my next trip to Israel and with warmest wishes and kindest regards.

5/5
Call: 1.877.977.4268

IBMT Holyland Tours

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