We – Archipelago Choice – are always disappointed to read about scams and fraudsters in our industry, which is why we just wanted to say, all our holidays are 100% genuine and we only sell tailor-made dream activity holidays not nightmares.
After the horror story highlighted by the BBC recently, we want to stress again, your money is safe with us; it doesn’t go into our own pockets, but to the quality and professional service providers we work in our destinations. This includes providers of accommodation, car hire, wildlife guides and great activities such as kayaking and canyoning. Many of these are independent operators too, so you will be helping the local economy by booking your holiday with us – as well as having a great holiday experience.
As soon as you have agreed to pay your deposit or full payment (either by card or bank transfer), you will be sent a certificate that either shows your holiday is bonded by ATOL (if you live in the UK and book a trip that includes flights departing from the UK) or IPP (if you book a trip and live outside the UK).
ATOL (Air Travel Organiser’s Licence) is a UK financial protection scheme set up in 1973 by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and it protects most air package holidays sold by travel businesses that are based in the UK. You can read about who runs it, how and why it was created and how it protects you here.
IPP (International Travel Protection) ensures people travelling with us who are not from the UK are protected too. You can read more about how it protects you here.
We’re also members of AITO (The Association of Independent Tour Operators). This Specialist Travel Association is a group of unique and specialist travel companies. When you book your holiday with an AITO member you are assured of the finest personal service, expert knowledge, and a holiday that is full financially protected. This is because membership requires us to adhere to a code of practice based on quality, service, financial security and sustainability.
So, rest assured we are the real deal and will be with you, from the moment you pick up the phone to talk to us, decide to book your trip, leave the country for an unforgettable experience and return home again.
After all, the 294 reviews we currently have on Feefo can’t be wrong! Unlike other review websites, Feefo is a closed platform, meaning that only genuine customers of the companies using Feefo may leave feedback for the products/services they have purchased.
Come and meet us in our Keswick office (1b Museum Square, CA12 5DZ) in the lovely Lake District, for a chat and a drink (our biscuit tin is always full) and see for yourself how much our team love their job and like to share their passion and knowledge of the Azores, Baja California, Cape Verde, Costa Rica, Cuba, Madeira, Namibia, Portugal and Sao Tome & Principe.