1. Acceptance of Terms

Welcome to Bangladesh Local Guide, operated by Syed Iftakharul Haque (“we,” “us,” “our,” or “the Guide”). These Terms of Service (“Terms”) constitute a legally binding agreement between you (“you,” “your,” or “Client”) and Bangladesh Local Guide.

By booking our services, contacting us for inquiries, or using our website bangladeshlocalguide.com, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Terms and our Privacy Policy.

If you do not agree to these Terms, please do not use our services.

2. Services Description

2.1 Scope of Services

Bangladesh Local Guide provides comprehensive guide and personal assistance services in Bangladesh, including but not limited to:

• Tour Guiding: City tours, sightseeing, cultural experiences, historical site visits
• Translation & Interpretation: English, Bengali, and Hindi language services
• Transportation Coordination: Airport pickup, driver arrangement, vehicle booking
• Business Support: Factory visits, meeting interpretation, supplier sourcing
• Shopping Assistance: Market navigation, price negotiation, quality verification
• Food Tours: Restaurant recommendations, menu translation, culinary experiences
• Emergency Assistance: 24/7 support for medical, legal, or safety situations
• Photography Support: Location scouting, permit acquisition, model coordination
• Personal Assistant Services: Visa assistance, accommodation booking, task coordination

2.2 Service Customization

All services are customized to meet your specific needs, interests, and schedule. We create personalized itineraries based on your requirements and provide recommendations based on our local expertise.

2.3 Service Availability

Services are available throughout Bangladesh, with primary coverage in Dhaka, Chittagong, Sylhet, Cox’s Bazar, and Sundarbans. We operate year-round, with some destinations subject to seasonal accessibility (e.g., Sundarbans closed during monsoon season).

2.4 What’s NOT Included

Unless specifically agreed upon, the following are NOT included in our service fee:

• Transportation costs (vehicles, fuel, drivers)
• Accommodation expenses
• Entrance fees to attractions, museums, or national parks
• Meals and beverages (for both client and guide)
• Visa fees or processing charges
• Travel insurance
• Personal shopping purchases
• Tips or gratuities (appreciated but optional)

3. Pricing and Payment Terms

3.1 Service Rates

Our pricing structure is simple and transparent:

3.2 Payment Methods

We accept the following payment methods:

• Cash: US Dollars (USD), Bangladeshi Taka (BDT), Euros (EUR), British Pounds (GBP)
• Bank Transfer: International wire transfer to Bangladesh bank account
• Digital Payments: PayPal, Western Union, MoneyGram

3.3 Payment Schedule

Payment timing depends on the length of your booking:

• Short Bookings (under 4 hours): Full payment at the start of service
• Full-Day or Multi-Day Bookings: 30% deposit to confirm booking + 70% balance at tour start
• Extended Bookings (week or longer): 30% deposit + daily or weekly payments as services are rendered

3.4 Currency and Conversion

All prices are quoted in US Dollars (USD). If paying in other currencies, the exchange rate will be based on the prevailing rate at the time of payment. We can assist with currency exchange at fair market rates.

3.5 Additional Expenses

You are responsible for reimbursing reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred on your behalf, including:

• Transportation costs when traveling together (fuel, parking, tolls)
• Entrance fees to attractions when the guide accompanies you
• Accommodation for the guide during multi-day tours outside Dhaka
• Meals for the guide during full-day or multi-day services

All expenses will be discussed and approved in advance. We provide receipts for all reimbursable expenses.

3.6 No Hidden Fees

There are no hidden charges, booking fees, service charges, or surprise costs. The quoted rate is the final rate you pay for our time and expertise.

4. Booking and Confirmation

4.1 How to Book

To book our services:

1. Contact us via WhatsApp (+880 1897-785210) or email (contact@bangladeshlocalguide.com)
2. Provide your travel dates, interests, and service requirements
3. Receive a customized proposal and pricing confirmation
4. Confirm your booking with deposit payment (if applicable)
5. Receive final confirmation with meeting details and contact information

4.2 Booking Confirmation

Your booking is confirmed when:

• We receive your deposit payment (for multi-day bookings), OR
• We send written confirmation via email or WhatsApp (for short bookings)

4.3 Advance Notice

We recommend booking at least:

• 24 hours in advance: For short services (airport pickup, single-day tours)
• 3-7 days in advance: For full-day or multi-day tours
• 2+ weeks in advance: For complex itineraries, permit-required destinations (Sundarbans, Hill Tracts), or peak season (November-February)

Last-minute bookings are accepted subject to availability. Emergency services are available 24/7 for existing clients.

4.4 Itinerary Changes

Itineraries can be modified before or during your tour based on:

• Your preferences and interests
• Weather conditions and safety concerns
• Attraction closures or unexpected events
• Time constraints or schedule changes

We accommodate changes whenever possible at no additional charge (assuming the total service time remains the same).

5. Cancellation and Refund Policy

5.1 Client Cancellation

You may cancel your booking under the following terms:

• 7+ days before service: Full refund of deposit
• 3-6 days before service: 50% refund of deposit
• Less than 3 days before service: No refund (we have blocked other bookings for your dates)
• Same-day cancellation or no-show: No refund, full payment due

5.2 Emergency Exceptions

Cancellations due to the following circumstances will be handled with flexibility:

• Medical Emergencies: Full refund with medical documentation
• Flight Cancellations: Full refund with airline confirmation (if beyond your control)
• Natural Disasters: Full refund or rescheduling without penalty
• Political Unrest/Safety Concerns: Full refund or rescheduling
• Family Emergencies: Case-by-case evaluation with documentation

5.3 Rescheduling

You may reschedule your booking:

• One free rescheduling if you provide 3+ days notice
• Additional rescheduling subject to availability and may incur fees
• Rescheduling to different season/destination may require price adjustment

5.4 Guide Cancellation

In the rare event we must cancel your booking, you will receive:

• Full refund of all payments made
• Assistance in finding alternative guide services
• Compensation for any non-refundable expenses you incurred due to the cancellation

We will only cancel in extraordinary circumstances (serious illness, family emergency, force majeure events).

5.5 Weather-Related Adjustments

If weather makes planned activities unsafe or impossible:

• We will suggest alternative indoor or weather-appropriate activities
• You may reschedule affected portions without penalty
• Partial refunds may be provided if no suitable alternatives exist

Bad weather alone is not grounds for full cancellation if alternative activities are available.

6. Client Responsibilities

6.1 Valid Documentation

You are responsible for ensuring you have:

• Valid passport (6+ months validity)
• Appropriate Bangladesh visa or visa-on-arrival eligibility
• Any required permits (we can assist with obtaining these)
• Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
• Necessary vaccinations and health documentation

6.2 Accurate Information

You must provide accurate and complete information regarding:

• Dietary restrictions and allergies
• Medical conditions affecting activities
• Mobility limitations or accessibility needs
• Emergency contact information
• Special requirements or preferences

6.3 Respectful Behavior

You agree to:

• Treat the guide and local people with respect and courtesy
• Follow local laws, customs, and cultural norms
• Dress modestly, especially at religious sites
• Refrain from illegal activities, substance abuse, or behavior endangering yourself or others
• Respect Bangladesh’s conservative culture and religious sensitivities

6.4 Safety Compliance

For your safety, you must:

• Follow the guide’s safety instructions and recommendations
• Stay with the group during tours (if applicable)
• Inform the guide immediately of any health issues or concerns
• Keep valuables secure and follow basic travel safety practices
• Drink only bottled water and follow food safety recommendations

6.5 Timely Communication

You agree to:

• Arrive on time for scheduled pickups and meetings
• Respond promptly to guide communications
• Notify the guide immediately of flight delays or schedule changes
• Keep your phone accessible for guide contact

6.6 Right to Refuse Service

We reserve the right to refuse or terminate service if you:

• Engage in illegal activities
• Exhibit threatening, abusive, or inappropriate behavior
• Endanger yourself, the guide, or others
• Violate local laws or cultural norms egregiously
• Fail to pay agreed-upon fees

No refund will be provided if service is terminated due to client misconduct.

7. Guide Responsibilities

7.1 Professional Service

We commit to providing:

• Knowledgeable, professional guide services
• Accurate information about destinations, culture, and history
• Punctual arrival for all scheduled services
• Respectful, courteous treatment at all times
• Clear communication in English, Bengali, and Hindi

7.2 Safety Priority

Your safety is our top priority. We will:

• Assess and minimize risks during all activities
• Provide guidance on safe practices and areas to avoid
• Respond promptly to emergencies and health issues
• Maintain 24/7 availability for urgent situations
• Coordinate with medical, police, or embassy services when needed

7.3 Local Expertise

We leverage our local knowledge to:

• Recommend authentic, high-quality experiences
• Negotiate fair prices on your behalf
• Navigate language and cultural barriers
• Access locations and opportunities unavailable to independent travelers
• Provide insider knowledge and hidden gems

7.4 Confidentiality

We maintain strict confidentiality regarding:

• Your personal information and travel details
• Business discussions and commercial information
• Private conversations and personal matters

We will not share your information with third parties except as required for service delivery or by law.

7.5 Limitations

While we strive for excellence, we cannot guarantee:

• Wildlife sightings (Sundarbans tigers, etc.) – nature is unpredictable
• Perfect weather conditions
• Attraction availability (sites may close unexpectedly)
• Third-party service quality (hotels, restaurants, transportation providers)
• Visa approval (we assist but don’t control immigration decisions)

8. Liability and Disclaimers

8.1 Assumption of Risk

You acknowledge that travel in Bangladesh involves inherent risks, including but not limited to:

• Traffic accidents and transportation risks
• Health issues (food-borne illness, tropical diseases, heat exhaustion)
• Natural disasters (floods, cyclones, earthquakes)
• Wildlife encounters in natural areas
• Petty crime and theft
• Political unrest or civil disturbances

By using our services, you voluntarily assume these risks.

8.2 Limitation of Liability

To the maximum extent permitted by law, Bangladesh Local Guide and Syed Iftakharul Haque shall not be liable for:

• Indirect, incidental, or consequential damages arising from our services
• Injury, illness, or death resulting from activities undertaken during tours
• Loss or damage to property (luggage, valuables, equipment)
• Third-party actions (hotel errors, restaurant food quality, driver negligence)
• Force majeure events (see Section 9)
• Acts of God or natural disasters

Our total liability in any circumstance shall not exceed the total fees you paid for our services.

8.3 Travel Insurance

We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance covering:

• Medical emergencies and evacuation
• Trip cancellation and interruption
• Lost or stolen belongings
• Personal liability
• Adventure activities (if applicable)

We can provide recommendations for reputable travel insurance providers, but we are not responsible for insurance claims or coverage.

8.4 Third-Party Services

We arrange services with third-party providers (hotels, restaurants, transportation, activity operators) on your behalf. While we select reputable providers, we are not responsible for their actions, errors, or service quality. You contract directly with these providers, and any claims should be directed to them.

8.5 Medical Disclaimer

We are not medical professionals. Any health or medical advice provided is general guidance based on experience, not professional medical opinion. Consult your doctor before travel for personalized medical advice, especially regarding vaccinations and pre-existing conditions.

9. Force Majeure

Neither party shall be liable for failure to perform obligations due to events beyond reasonable control, including:

• Natural disasters (floods, cyclones, earthquakes, tsunamis)
• Pandemics or epidemics (COVID-19, etc.)
• Political unrest, riots, or civil disturbances
• War, terrorism, or military actions
• Government restrictions, curfews, or travel bans
• Strikes or labor disputes affecting transportation
• Severe weather making travel unsafe

In force majeure situations:

• Services may be postponed, modified, or cancelled
• Refunds will be provided for services not rendered
• We will work with you to find alternative solutions when possible
• Neither party is liable for losses caused by force majeure events

10. Intellectual Property

10.1 Website Content

All content on bangladeshlocalguide.com, including text, images, logos, and design, is the property of Bangladesh Local Guide and protected by copyright law. You may not reproduce, distribute, or use our content without written permission.

10.2 Client Photos and Testimonials

By using our services, you grant us permission to:

• Use photos taken during tours for marketing purposes (social media, website, brochures)
• Share your testimonials and reviews (with attribution)

If you prefer not to be featured in our marketing, please inform us in writing. We will respect your privacy preferences.

10.3 Client Content

You retain all rights to photos and content you create during tours. We encourage you to share your Bangladesh experiences on social media and tag us (@bangladeshlocalguide) so we can celebrate your journey!

11. Dispute Resolution

11.1 Good Faith Resolution

We are committed to customer satisfaction. If you have any concerns, complaints, or disputes:

1. Inform the guide immediately during your tour so we can address issues in real-time
2. If unresolved, contact us in writing within 7 days of service completion
3. We will respond within 48 hours and work toward a fair resolution

11.2 Mediation

If we cannot resolve the dispute directly, both parties agree to attempt mediation before pursuing legal action. Mediation costs will be shared equally.

11.3 Governing Law

These Terms shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of Bangladesh. Any legal disputes shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts in Dhaka, Bangladesh.

11.4 International Clients

For clients from other countries, we recognize that Bangladesh law may differ from your home country. We aim to resolve disputes fairly and amicably, respecting both local and international norms of service provision.

12. Changes to Terms of Service

We may update these Terms from time to time to reflect:

• Changes in our services or pricing
• New legal requirements or regulations
• Improved practices based on customer feedback
• Clarifications or corrections

When we make changes:

• We will update the “Last Updated” date at the top of this page
• Significant changes will be communicated via email to existing clients
• Changes apply to bookings made after the update date
• Existing bookings remain subject to the Terms in effect at the time of booking

Your continued use of our services after Terms are updated constitutes acceptance of the new Terms.

13. Miscellaneous Provisions

13.1 Entire Agreement

These Terms, together with our Privacy Policy and any booking confirmations, constitute the entire agreement between you and Bangladesh Local Guide regarding our services.

13.2 Severability

If any provision of these Terms is found to be invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall continue in full force and effect.

13.3 Waiver

Our failure to enforce any right or provision of these Terms shall not constitute a waiver of that right or provision.

13.4 Assignment

You may not transfer or assign your rights or obligations under these Terms without our written consent. We may assign our rights and obligations to a successor or affiliate.

13.5 Language

These Terms are written in English. If translated into other languages, the English version shall prevail in case of any conflict or discrepancy.

13.6 Independent Contractor

Bangladesh Local Guide operates as an independent contractor. Nothing in these Terms creates an employer-employee, partnership, joint venture, or agency relationship between us and you.

14. Acknowledgment and Agreement

By using Bangladesh Local Guide services, you acknowledge that:

• You have read and understood these Terms of Service in their entirety
• You agree to be bound by these Terms and our Privacy Policy
• You have had the opportunity to ask questions and seek clarification
• You accept the risks and responsibilities outlined in these Terms
• You are booking services voluntarily and with full knowledge of the terms

Thank you for choosing Bangladesh Local Guide! We look forward to making your Bangladesh experience exceptional. Your trust in us is valued, and we’re committed to exceeding your expectations at every step of your journey.