Unforgettable experiences for a lifetime
Answers to most of your questions
About Travel Buddies بالعربي
Who are you?
Who Travel Buddies بالعربي areTravel Buddies بالعربي is a community for travellers and people who love exploring. We are based in Egypt, but the community pulls in people from all over through our trips and events, inside Egypt and abroad.
Are you a company?
Legal entityFrom the start we have focused on the community and on doing this differently from everyone else. To operate properly and legally, we are a registered company in the Arab Republic of Egypt.
What do you mean by admins?
Our teamIt comes from the way English words get used in Egyptian Arabic. The admins are the people who organise the trips and run things inside the community.
Staying in touch
Do I need Telegram to take part?
Yes. Telegram is how we communicate during a trip or an outing, and all the details go to the group for that trip.
Can I share the Telegram group link with someone else?
No. The link is for you only, and can be passed on only with an admin’s approval. That keeps the group private and the numbers manageable.
Signing up
Why does my information need to be correct when I sign up?
So we can actually reach you, quickly. Double-check your phone number and email address in particular.
What happens after I sign up?
You will get two emails: one confirming we received your registration, and a second with either the Telegram group link for those accepted, or a note that you were not accepted this time.
What if no email arrives after I sign up?
Check that you entered your details correctly, and look in your spam folder.
Acceptance and dates
When will I hear if I have been accepted?
We email everyone who is accepted within 24 to 72 hours of registering.
How do you choose who goes on a trip?
It depends on how many places the trip has and what that particular activity needs. Priority goes to people who registered early and filled in their details properly.
Can the dates or details of a trip change?
Yes. Dates, budget or the plan itself can change, and we will tell you in the Telegram group.
Trip details
Where do I find the details of a trip?
The initial details go out on all our channels, but mainly here on our site and in the Telegram group.
The full details are posted in the Telegram group for the people going.
Is there a schedule for the trips?
Yes. Schedules are announced in advance with the dates and times.
Here on our site and in the Telegram group.
How places on trips are booked
How do I book a place on a trip or an outing?
Register first by filling in the form for that trip.
If you are approved, you will be invited into a Telegram group with the others who were accepted.
You pay a deposit to confirm your place. Priority goes by who pays.
How is priority decided?
Say a trip needs 12 people and 100 apply:
A set number are accepted initially, for example 30.
24 of them join the Telegram group.
The first 12 to pay the deposit get the final places.
How is a booking confirmed?
By paying the deposit after you join the Telegram group. Places are allocated in the order people pay.
During the trip
What should I bring on a trip?
Bring your own essentials: phone charger, power bank, clothes for the weather, and a small first aid kit.
How do I make sure the trip is safe for me?
Follow the instructions in the Telegram group for that trip or outing, and do not hesitate to check any detail with the admins before you act on it.
Payment and refund policy
What payment methods can I use?
Right now: InstaPay, Vodafone Cash, bank transfer, cash and online payment.
Instalments are coming soon. The options for each trip are confirmed when that trip is announced.
Can I get a refund if I cancel?
Yes, as long as you cancel before the cutoff date set for that trip or outing. After the cutoff, a refund may not be possible.
How do I request a refund?
Message the admins by email or in the Telegram group. Include your booking details and the reason you are cancelling.
Is there an admin fee on refunds?
An admin fee of between 5% and 10% of the total paid may apply. You will be told the exact figure when you submit your request.
Can I cancel after I have paid?
Yes, within the cancellation policy. Cancel before the cutoff and you are entitled to a refund under the terms. Cancel after it and a refund may not be possible.
Safety and ground rules
What are the rules for taking part in the group?
Keep it civil. No mockery, no bullying, and no posting things that do not belong here, such as ads, without the admins agreeing first.
How do I avoid being taken advantage of or scammed?
The group is not responsible for arrangements members make between themselves. Take the usual care when dealing with others: check who you are talking to, and avoid paying up front without some guarantee.
What do I do about a member who behaves badly?
Abuse, bullying or inappropriate language gets the person banned from the group. Tell the admins straight away.
Can we discuss politics or religion?
No. Political and religious debates are not allowed in the group.
Can I post photos or content from elsewhere?
Yes, but credit the source so there are no copyright problems.
