Travel Policy
Reservations
Reservations are honored in order of receipt. A specified deposit, per person, per tour is required with a completed reservation form to reserve a place on a tour. Balance of payment is generally due upon receipt of final invoice or as specified by the tour operator. If the program of your choice is fully subscribed when we receive your application, you will automatically be placed on a waiting list and your deposit held or credit card not charged until you are confirmed on your trip. We will contact you if a space becomes available. Meanwhile, if you choose to withdraw from the waiting list, please notify us by mail or phone and your check will be returned or credit card number destroyed. Please note that some tour operators do not accept credit cards for payments. Make a reservation
Cancellations and Refunds
The initial deposit for all tours is refundable with some limitations based on individual tour operator terms and conditions as stated in individual trip brochures. Please read the individual trip's cancellation policy carefully. After this time, tour participants are subject to cancellation policies set by the tour operator governing the particular trip in which they are enrolled. There are no refunds for unused meals, accommodations or other included features. Trip cancellation insurance is offered and is highly recommended.
Please be advised that the California Alumni Association is not a secondary insurer. Refunds, if any, come from the trip tour operator or travel insurance carrier, rather than from CAA.
Travel Safety
At all times, and especially during troubled times, our highest priority is the safety of our travelers. Our second highest priority is their peace of mind. Cal Discoveries and our tour operators, carefully monitor situations all around the world. Our sources of information include:
- The U.S. State Department (speaking directly with country desk experts in Washington, D.C.)
- Major airlines
- Travel industry colleagues at home and abroad
- Academic resources
- UCB contacts on campus and abroad
The U. S. Department of State issues two different levels of travel advice based upon various situations as they relate to the safety of U.S. citizens in foreign countries. We take all public announcements from the State Department seriously. Situations assessed as presenting a lesser risk are designated as "Public Announcements," while those presenting a greater risk are designated as "Travel Warnings."
View the The U. S. Department of State Travel Advisory
View the latest airport security information
Should it ever become prudent for either Cal Discoveries or our tour operators to cancel a trip before departure, every effort is made to fully refund participants. Should it become necessary to interrupt a trip while in progress, our tour operators will assist in every way possible.
Travel Insurance Services
USI Travel Insurance Services is pleased to be the provider of Travel Protection, a plan developed especially for California Alumni and for those traveling with the Cal Discoveries Travel Program. You can protect your travel investment at a very affordable group rate.
Enroll early (within 15 days of paying your trip deposit) for maximum benefits.
Foreign Currency Exchange
Bank of America and the California Alumni Association want you to feel secure when traveling. Bank of America provides foreign currency exchange services that include purchasing and selling foreign currency and Travelers Cheques to Cal alumni and friends.