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DATA PROTECTION PRIVACY STATEMENT
We are committed to ensuring that your privacy is protected. Should we ask you to provide information by which you can be identified via our website or by other means you can be assured that it will only be used in accordance with this privacy statement and relevant Data Protection laws.
Unless we are negligent in exercising our responsibilities then we shall not be held liable for unauthorised access to information supplied by you. We may occasionally change this policy by updating our policy so please check our website for the most recent update.
Who are we?
Argyll Backpackers Limited is a private limited company, registered in Scotland (Company number - SC 411641) and will act as Data Controller for the personal information we collect from you. Our registered office address is Argyll Backpackers, Loch Fyne Lodge, Inverneil, Ardrishaig PA30 8ES. The person responsible for data protection issues is Pamela Richmond (Managing Director), her contact details are:
Address - Argyll Backpackers, Loch Fyne Lodge, Inverneil, Ardrishaig PA30 8ES
Telephone – 01546 603366 Email – info@argyllbackpackers.com
In order to help the Data Controller keep your information up to date registered users may be asked to provide details of any changes in their information at regular intervals.
What information do we require and why?
We will ask for your full name and postal address as well as your contact telephone numbers, email address, gender and nationality (including passport details for overseas guests) –
We need to collect your personal information in order to provide you with the accommodation requested and to establish our rights in relation to that service, as detailed in our terms and conditions page. We will only collect personal information that is needed for the delivery of this service and other legitimate purposes as detailed below.
We will not usually collect any special category data (this used to be called 'sensitive personal data') as defined under data protection law, however we may use health data provided by you to meet your particular needs (for example, the provision of disability access).
Images: Argyll Backpackers may use images in the course of their business within media, print, other relevant publications and social media channels. Before taking any images we will request your prior consent in all instances.
What is our legal basis for processing your information?
Data Protection legislation specifies a number of different lawful grounds for organisations to process personal information; in this instance the lawful basis used by Argyll Backpackers Limited are contractual (processing is necessary for the performance of a contract with you or to take steps to enter into a contract with you), for the legitimate interest of carrying out our business e.g. dealing with correspondence etc. and consent e.g. where you give consent in relation to marketing activities.
What will we do with your information?
The personal information you provide to us will be retained in our record keeping systems, manual and computerised. We will take all reasonable steps to ensure that your information is kept securely in accordance with data protection legislation and guidance.
We may also receive your information from 3rd parties, including:
Each of these 3rd parties has their own privacy policies which are required to comply with UK data protection laws or an equivalent standard.
By submitting personal details to us via our website you are consenting to the use of those details for the purposes of identifying you as a unique user. Your details are securely stored on our CRM System, email database and with our external email management provider, Mailchimp.
We will not use your information about you submitted via our website for any other purpose if you have not indicated that you are happy for us to do so. We will not pass your contact details to any third party for any use – including marketing – without having first received your explicit consent.
We will use the information we collect from you for the following purposes:
Updating or Deleting Your Information
Details of the data we hold on you will be provided to you on request. Any request of this nature should be directed to the email address shown in the first section of this notice.
Any personal data we hold on you will be deleted or updated upon request and any inaccurate or misleading data held will be changed or deleted upon your request.
You have the right to access any of the information held about you by emailing info@argyllbackpackers.com
You have the right to unsubscribe from our database by selecting unsubscribe option at the bottom of any of our communications or by contacting info@argyllbackpackers.com
What about information relating to young people?
Argyll Backpackers welcomes visits from families, youth groups, sports clubs. In order to deliver agreed contracted services and to comply with legislation the following information will usually be provided during the duration of the group stay in order to ensure the necessary arrangements are in place. Information will be restricted to the minimum amount needed and this includes full name, gender, special requirements and nationality.
Where personal data or personal sensitive information has been received:
the information will be stored securely;
* we will not pass these details on to any other organisation, unless agreement has been obtained in advance and providing the sharing is to help deliver the services required;
* we agree to destroy the data securely when the trip and all related matters have been concluded;
* where required when hosting children under 16, Argyll Backpackers must be provided with evidence that consent from whoever holds parental responsibility for the child has been given.
Sharing your information with other organisations
In order to deliver our services, there may be occasions where we will share your information with other organisations such as;
Our email provider organisation with responsibility for the electronic distribution of our updates, promotions, newsletters etc. You will only receive these communications if you have already given your consent to do so and you can choose to opt out of this at any time;
For legal obligations - we may release information to the police or other authorities where we are under a legal obligation to do so (as noted above);
Partner organisations where we may also provide anonymised statistics to reputable third parties, such as Visit Scotland or other relevant agencies i.e. these statistics will not contain any personal information.
Data Transfers
Argyll Backpackers will not transfer any personal data outwith the UK.
How long will we keep your information?
We will retain your information for the periods required by law e.g. for corporation tax and VAT purposes this will be 6 years following the date accommodation was provided. After this period your details will be destroyed using secure arrangements.
We may retain information about customers whose conduct has been anti-social or breached our policies, for the purpose of restricting those customers’ future use of our services.
Automated Decision Making:
No automated decision making is used in providing our services.
Cookies:
The Argyll Backpackers website uses “cookies”. Cookies are small pieces of information which are sent by a website to your web browser and remain on your computer until they are deleted. Cookies are sent by our website to ensure that it does not unnecessarily show you information that you have already seen or have indicated as not being of interest to you. Cookies therefore enable our website to offer you a more personalised service when using our website. You agree to our use of cookies and/or any other data tracking. If you do not wish to receive such cookies from us, please adjust your browser’s settings accordingly although this may restrict your use of the website.
We also use a third party service, Google Analytics, to analyse the use of this website. Google Analytics generates statistical and other information about website use by means of cookies, which are stored on users' computers. The information generated relating to our website is used to create reports about the use of the website however only processed in a way which does not identify any individual. Google will store this information however we do not make, and do not allow Google to make, any attempts to find out the identities of those visiting our website. Google's privacy policy is available at: http://www.google.com/privacypolicy.html
Your consent:
There is a notice on the home page of our website which describes how we use cookies and which also provides a link to our Privacy Policy. If you use this website after this notification has been displayed then this will be regarded as providing your consent to our use of cookies for the purposes described in this Privacy Policy.
Your Rights:
When you provide your information to us you are entitled to exercise a number of rights (see full details at www.ico.org.uk), including –
To withdraw consent at any time if the lawful basis stated above is consent (not applicable in this case).
To lodge a complaint with the Information Commissioner (contact details below).
To request access to your personal data (please see contact details above).
To data portability, where the legal basis stated above is consent or contractual.
To request rectification or erasure of personal information as far as the legislation permits.
Complaints:
If you have a complaint in relation to the handling of your personal information or if you want to exercise any of your rights under data protection law you can do this by using the contact details noted above.
Although we ask that you allow us the opportunity to resolve any issues initially, you may prefer to lodge a complaint directly with the Information Commissioner at –
Wycliffe House, Water Lane, Wilmslow SK9 5EF.
Terms and Conditions for Guests at Argyll Backpackers Limited
COVID-19
Advice on Covid-19 has constantly changed and guests are advised to keep up to date with current rules and guidance, with reference to the Scottish Government guidelines at www.gov.scot before travelling. Guests are also advised that in terms of any current guidance, some Hostel facilities may not always be available throughout your stay.
We have introduced a range of measures to help reduce the spread of the disease – further details can be found here.
1. GENERAL
a. Argyll Backpackers Limited (the company) reserves the right to alter these Terms and Conditions at any time.
b. The conditions relevant to any booking are those detailed in the version issue of these Terms and Conditions which is current at the time of that booking.
1.1 Business Structure
The company is limited and registered in Scotland, Company Number SC411641
The registered office address is Loch Fyne Lodge, Inverneil, Ardrishaig PA30 8ES
1.2 Definitions etc.
a. Argyll Backpackers the Hostel and the Company means Argyll Backpackers Limited
b. Infant, Children and Young Persons; An infant is a child under 3 years of age; a child is an individual aged between 3 and 11 years; a young person is an individual aged between 12 and 18 years.
c. ’Sole Use’ is defined as a booking which enables a Guest to hire the whole Hostel for exclusive use. No other guests can then use the Hostel at the same time, and the guest has full use of all Hostel facilities including self-catering kitchens. This option requires all bedrooms/beds to be paid for even if not needed by the Guest's Group. The 'Lead Person' is responsible for their whole group, including electricity costs, (readings taken at start & end of stay). NB: towels not included.
d. A 'Group' booking is defined as an organised group of 4 people or more, not booking as per 'sole use' or 'units', but as per room.
e. Private 'Unit' for Family/Small Group/Group refers to a booking for 9 or a max of 13 people. This option is for bedrooms within the main building being booked beside eachother, whereby forming a private ‘Unit’, with use of a 'Common-room’ and self-catering kitchen; the 'unit' then has it's own entrance. These can be booked as follows:
i) 3 rooms (9 guests) form ‘Unit 1’; with use of the s/c kitchen + Common-room' lounge/dining area; or
ii) 5 rooms (13 guests) form ‘Unit 2’ (all ‘main building’ bedrooms); with use of both the s/c kitchen + Common-room' lounge/dining area.
Other guests may be about the car-park and outdoor areas, (just like in a hotel situation), but only if (i) is booked will they share inside common areas. The kitchen area for (i) is at the opposite end of the room for the 2 other inside rooms that may be occupied. Guests in either of our 2 outside 'Dorm' rooms are then on a ‘Room Only’ basis, as they have microwaves.
iii) Our 'Wee Snug' Hostel with a double and twin bedroom (4 guests) on the 1st floor can also be booked.
f. Individual(s); a booking for an individual is for a guest(s) aged 18 or over in either a private room or ‘dorm’ bed (when available).
g. Guest / Guests means any individual(s) aged 18 years or over, who makes or is making a booking with Argyll Backpackers Ltd, or utilises Argyll Backpackers Ltd hospitality services.
h. The Lead Person is the guest nominated to represent and take responsibility for a Small Group or 'Sole use' Group of Guests. This person must be at least 18 years old and will be the point of contact for all correspondence and will also be the primary contact for the group within the Hostel during the stay. The Lead Person must reside at the Hostel for the whole period of the booking. The Lead Person is responsible for the payment of the booking, the safety of their group and the general housekeeping of the Hostel booking during their stay. The Lead Person will be liable for any damage to the property. The Lead Person will be made familiar with the fire alarm procedures and is expected to evacuate the premises in the case of fire alarm and to notify the fire service and Warden immediately.
i. The Warden is the Owner/Director of the Company (Pamela Richmond) or such other person appointed by the Warden to undertake this role
1.3 Contract
a. All bookings are made subject to these Terms and Conditions and the person placing the booking is 18 years old or over, undertakes that he/she has the full authority to do so on behalf of all persons on whose behalf they are making the booking and confirms that all persons are aware of and accept these Terms and Conditions.
b. A contract for the supply of accommodation and (where applicable) other related services will be formed when the Company accepts a booking or (if earlier) starts to provide the services.
c. All guests are expected to have made arrangements for their own travel insurance.
d. If any of these terms and conditions or any provision of a Contract with you are determined to be invalid, unlawful or unenforceable to any extent, such term, condition or provision will to that extent be removed from the remaining terms, conditions or provisions which will continue to be valid to the fullest extent permitted by law.
e. Any person making a booking and or staying at Argyll Backpackers Ltd is deemed to agree to be bound by all of the terms and conditions herein.
f. Argyll Backpackers reserves the right to revise and amend these terms and conditions from time to time. All guests will be subject to the terms and conditions in force at the time of booking, unless any change is required to be made by law or if we notify you of the change to these terms and conditions before we confirm that your booking has been made.
2. ENQUIRIES, BOOKINGS & PAYMENTS
2.1 General
a. Please note that we do not operate a 24/7 office/reception, but any enquiries to check availability or make a booking can be made by phone on:- 01546 603366 or 07786 157 727 between 10:30-12:00 & 15:00-17:00 hrs. Outwith these hours, please clearly, leave your details on the messaging system to enable us to return your call. Alternatively enquiries can be made 24/7 via email at argyllbackpackers@sky.com with details of your requirements. We will usually reply within 24 hours.
Or, you can even check our on-line diary and complete your booking via the website 'Book Now' link.
b. All transactions with Argyll Backpackers are in pounds sterling (GBP).
c. To secure bookings made in advance, full payment (100%) of the total cost of the stay is payable prior to arrival – this condition applies to individual(s), group / family bookings. Payment can be made by via Freetobook (or alternative system) & Stripe (or current online payment system), or Bank Transfer.
d. No booking is confirmed until you receive email/text confirmation from Argyll Backpackers Hostel.
e. No booking fees are charged for guests booking directly with us e.g. in person, by telephone or email. Additional costs may be incurred if bookings are made via relevant online travel agents.
f. The maximum duration of any stay at the Hostel is 7 consecutive night per person per visit, though ‘Essential/Contract Workers’ excepted if they have a permanent UK address.
g. The price for accommodation, (and other services if applicable), is displayed within the Hostel and on the Hostel’s website; www.argyllbackpackers.com. Argyll Backpackers reserves the right to change prices without notice at any time. The price payable is the price in force at the time of booking.
h. When you have made a reservation directly via the Hostel (ie: not Freetobook), you will be requested to confirm your booking by means of a 100% payment, (50% for unit/group or sole use bookings) of the total cost. If the deposit is not received within 24hrs of the reservation, then the rooms/bed spaces will be made available for other bookings. In every case, the balance due / full payment must be made prior to arrival.
i. Bookings may be changed, subject to availability, provided at least 7 days notice is given for an 'INDIVIDUAL' booking; or at least 14 days notice in the event of a 'FAMILY/SMALL GROUP/GROUP' booking; or at least 1 month notice in the event of an EXCLUSIVE/’SOLE USE’ booking.
j. Full payment (100%) is required for individual bookings.
- A 50% Deposit is required for ‘Group’ and ‘Exclusive/Sole Use’ bookings.
- Please see Terms and Conditions 3 & 4 below.
2.2 Payment Methods
Argyll Backpackers will accept payments by the following methods:-
a. In person at Argyll Backpackers by cash or online at the Hostel by bank transfer or C/C via 'Stripe'.
b. Online using the booking system (e.g. Freetobook) and the bank merchant service used by Argyll Backpackers at that time or by bank transfer, all shown on our website.
3 INDIVIDUAL OR SMALL GROUP BOOKINGS
a. An Individual Booking or Small Group booking is any booking for nine or fewer people (e.g. a family). For Small Groups, all arrangements with the Hostel including booking and payment, check-in and check-out arrangements, will be the responsibility of the Lead Person.
b. Individual Booking or Small Group bookings can be arranged and paid for as detailed at 2.1 and 2.2 above. All bookings must be paid in full before check-in.
c. On or prior to arrival all guests (i.e. individuals/each member of the group) are required to complete a registration form, (during Covid-19, from 9th June 2021, this included names of any accompanying children. From April 2022 we reverted to only requesting information as per our pre Covid Registration Forms, but this may change with Scot Gov ruling). Guests who are not British Commonwealth citizens, or British protected persons or citizens of the Republic of Ireland, must supply Passport Number or Certificate of Registration or other documentation establishing their identity and nationality.
Any guest who does not complete a registration form will be ineligible to their stay and will not be entitled to a refund.
d. Individuals and small groups can normally check into the Hostel from 16.00 hours to 18.00 and 20.00 to 21.00 hours, after which time the bed(s) can be resold (unless we have agreed a different check-in time). Guests arriving before 16:00 hours may not have access to their rooms until 16:00 hours.
e. On departure, guests are expected to strip bed linens, open their window and vacate their room(s) by 10:30 hours. Late check-out of bedrooms will incur a charge equivalent to an additional night’s stay for each guest. Early ‘self check-out' can be arranged in advance the night before with the Warden. Early / late check-in, or early / late check-out cannot be guaranteed, however, every effort will be made to accommodate your request, but only if agreed by the Warden and the times are reasonable.
Once a guest has checked-out of their bedroom, they are welcome to use the 'common room & kitchen areas' (but not their bedroom) until midday free of charge.
A fee of £10.00 per guest will be applied, when prior arrangement/availability has been made to check-out of bedroom between 10:30 & 15:00hrs (ie: day use of bedroom & Hostel facilities).
f. Hostel Staff will only be available between 09:00-10:30 for departures, and 16:00-18:00 & 20:00-21:00 for arrivals. Only those guests who have paid in full and made prior arrangements for a ‘late arrival’ will be checked in between 21:00-23:00. After these times check-in will only be at the discretion of the Warden and may be by a pre-arranged 'self check-in' method only. Any guests who have not paid in full or pre-arranged a ‘late arrival’ will be considered to have cancelled their booking at 21:00, therefore all bed spaces booked under the Lead Person may be re-sold after 21:00 and no refund will be issued.
g. Guests are expected to leave their room and the Hostel in an acceptable state (i.e. clean and tidy with all kitchen items used, properly washed/dried and put away in their original cupboards; all rubbish placed in the appropriate bins).
Guests should open their window, strip linen from their beds (eg: duvet cover, fitted sheet & pillow cases), and place all linens on the bed ready for collection by Staff.
If beds/rooms etc. are left in a condition not deemed to be appropriate by the Warden then an extra cleaning fee may be charged (minimum of £25.00).
A charge of £150 will automatically be made to the 'Lead Booker's' card for the necessary replacement costs for any 'soiled bedding', towels, carpet, furnishings and décor caused by, but not limited to: vomit, urine, faeces, food & drink stains, or cigarette burns. If damage greater than £150 is found, further charges will be made to recover total damage costs.
Argyll Backpackers will also CHARGE THE FULL RATE for all room/bed nights made unavailable as a result of any such damage and incidents cited in this condition.
h. Bookings for stag or hen parties will not be accepted and any attempt to book or arrive as equivalent groups will forfeit the booking(s) and all monies paid.
4 GROUP AND EXCLUSIVE USE BOOKINGS
4.1 Group/Unit Bookings
a. Group/Unit bookings are any bookings for 9 people or more guests.
b. Group/Unit Bookings and Exclusive 'Sole Use' bookings can be arranged and paid for as detailed at 2.1 and 2.2 above. All bookings must be paid in full before check-in.
c. It is a mandatory requirement that groups including children have a minimum ratio of 1:10 adults to children.
d. For all group bookings, Argyll Backpackers must receive a full guest list (per room name), anticipated arrival time and details of any special requirement at least 1 week (7 days) prior to arrival. Only then, unless the 'Lead Person' arrives first, will this enable group members not actually arriving together as a 'whole group', to be checked-in to their room(s), before the rest of their group arrive.
e. Every group is required to have a leader, regarded as the Lead Person, who is responsible for making and paying for the booking and is the main point of contact before, during and after the stay.
f. On arrival and prior to check-in/entering the Hostel (if not already emailed as above), the Lead Person will complete a registration form listing the names of all guests & allocated rooms, this list is also required for compliance with Fire Safety Regulations and Insurance Company.
Guests who are not British Commonwealth citizens, or British protected persons or citizens of the Republic of Ireland, must supply Passport Number or Certificate of Registration or other documentation establishing their identity and nationality.
Any guest who does not complete a registration form will be ineligible to complete their stay and will not be entitled to a refund.
g. The Lead Person is required to be resident within the Hostel throughout the duration of their booking and will be the contact person for our team members. The Lead Person must be aged 18 years or over.
h. For all group bookings, Argyll Backpackers must be provided with a direct mobile telephone contact with the Lead Person whilst travelling, and a contact email address provided at least 72 hours prior to arrival.
i. Check-in is from 16.00 on the day of arrival; however you may be able to drop off luggage before then, please contact the Hostel for details.
j. On departure, guests are expected to strip bed linens and vacate their room(s) by 10:30 hours. Late check-outs will incur a charge of an additional night.
k. Hostel Staff will only be available between 09:00-10:30 for departures, and 16:00-18:00 & 20:00-21:00 for arrivals. Only those guests who have paid in full and made prior arrangements for a ‘late arrival’ will be checked in between 21.00-23.00. After these times check-in will only be at the discretion of the Warden. Any guests who have not paid in full or pre-arranged a ‘late arrival’ will be considered to have cancelled their booking at 21.00, so that all bed spaces booked under the Lead Person may be re-sold after 21.00 and no refund will be issued.
4.2. 'Sole Use' / 'Group/Unit' Bookings – additional conditions
a. Argyll Backpackers ’Sole Use’ bookings enable a guest to hire the whole Hostel for their exclusive use. No other guests can use the Hostel at the same time and guests will have full use of 7 bedrooms, and all facilities including the self catering kitchens. Please note, there is no such thing as part 'Sole Use'. For smaller groups this would be as per 'Unit' detailed separately.
b. The Hostel is available for 'Sole Use' for stays of 2-7 nights, by a single group on a self-catering basis. Bookings may be accepted for a maximum of up to 23 guests, (a z-bed can also be added to one of the 4 bedded rooms if required). All bed linens are supplied, but not personal towels.
c. 50% of the full cost of the total hire period is payable at the time of booking if more than 1 month prior to arrival, with the balance paid 1 month prior to arrival. Bookings made within 1 month of arrival have to be made in full (100%). In addition, 7 days prior to arrival, a 'Good Housekeeping Deposit' of £500 must be paid by Bank Transfer only, although this is refundable (via Bank Transfer) on departure if everything is left in the same condition as found on arrival, minus logged/noted electricity readings/costs.
b. In the event that you instruct third party contractors to operate within our premises i.e. caterers, disco firms, bar services or other, you must ensure that they possess all relevant insurances, qualifications and licenses as required. Copies of these should be provided to Argyll Backpackers for reference 7 days prior to the start of your rental period.
c. ‘Sole Use’ bookings can be for any number of guests up to the maximum number of 24. Fire Regulations and Insurance Company require that Argyll Backpackers know the actual number of people in your group, which should be confirmed to Reservations one week prior to your arrival date. This list will also be used to register all guests as they arrive at the Hostel.
d. 'Unit' bookings can be for any number of guests up to the maximum number of 13. The booking process for 'Unit' use bookings requires that the names of all individuals using the Hostel during your stay should be provided to the Warden by the Lead Person at lease 48 hours prior to check-in. This list will also be used to register all guests as they arrive at the Hostel, as well as for Fire/Emergency.
e. Argyll Backpackers will not permit conduct or activities which could cause an offence on racial, political, sectarian or religious grounds, or which could constitute a threat to public order. Similarly, Argyll Backpackers will not accept bookings for events which may bring them into disrepute.
f. Non Resident Guests:
i) The hostel is operated on a ‘residents only’ basis for the security/comfort of our resident guests and for Fire Register and Insurance Company Requirements.
ii) Residents are discouraged from inviting any non-residents into the Hostel, but may only do so with the permission of the Manager/Duty Warden, and the non-resident(s) is/are restricted to the ‘Common-room’ area only, and not under any circumstance, any of the bedrooms, even if you booked a 'private room'.
iii) Non-resident guests must not enter before 18:30hrs and must leave the building by 21:30hrs. (NB: unless by prior agreement with Manager/Duty Warden).
g. Minimum period for exclusive use at Christmas Festive Season is 3 nights.
h. The cancellation policy for 'Private Unit' / 'Sole Use' bookings is:-
i) 1 calendar month or more prior to date of arrival, 50% of total monies paid will be refunded
ii) 14 days-1 calendar month prior to date of arrival, 20% of monies paid will be refunded
iii) 13 days or less prior to date of arrival, no refund will be made.
5 CANCELLATIONS
5.1 These following conditions are applicable to Individual and Small Group bookings only; NOT to 'Unit' / 'Sole Use' bookings (see 4.2h above)
5.2 Cancellations must be confirmed by email and will be subject to the following terms:-
a. within 7 days or more prior to date of arrival, 50% refund of monies paid will be refunded
b. between 3 to 6 days prior to date of arrival, 10% refund of monies paid will be refunded;
c. 2 days or less prior to date of arrival, no refund will be made.
d. in the event of any reduction to the original number of guests a booking has been made for (no matter the reason), only if Argyll Backpackers are notified in writing at least 7 days prior to date of arrival and, only then if at all possible, will we move the booking to a smaller occupancy room to enable a 25% refund in the rate difference. Otherwise, the original booking will still apply at the full cost.
5.3
In the unlikely event that Argyll Backpackers has to cancel a booking, they will make every effort to offer an amended or alternative booking or a refund of monies paid. If for any reason Argyll Backpackers has to make a significant change (i.e. a change that would materially affect the guest’s trip) to the Hostel once the guest’s stay has started, the guest is obliged to accept any reasonable alternative. Argyll Backpackers will cancel a booking/stay, without refund, if any member of a party behaves unreasonably or causes offence to other Hostel guests, employees, neighbours or external service providers. This also applies if there is any damage to property or goods within the Hostel or Hostel grounds.
6 HOSTEL FACILITIES & THEIR USE
a. Dorm rooms are normally for single-gender occupancy, unless the whole room is booked by one group, all private rooms can be single-gender or mixed-gender.
b. Argyll Backpackers reserves the right to amend room allocation prior to the time of arrival.
c. Guests will usually be able to access their allocated room(s) from 16:00hrs but this may be delayed subject to operational constraints. Guest(s) must check out of their room(s) no later than 10:30hrs unless otherwise agreed by the Warden.
d. Bed linen and microfiber towels are provided (not towels when Group/Sole Use') at the Hostel (ordinary towels may be hired) as/when available. Guests are not permitted to use their own bed linens, sleep sheets or sleeping bags without the consent of the Warden.
e. Whilst every effort is made to ensure appropriate security at the Hostel, Argyll Backpackers is not responsible for visitor’s property, which includes but is not restricted to luggage or bicycles. In particular, cyclists should provide their own bike locks.
f :-
(i) The Hostel has marked parking for 7 vehicles with an additional 1 disabled parking space as well as space for motorbikes;
(ii) Motorists should drive forwards towards main building door (marked ‘Private’), then reverse park (as per the Highway Code advice), into a numbered bay, (which is 2.4mtrs wide), between marked arrows and red & white reflectors on the perimeter fence; this then enables unrestricted manoeuvrers to easily enable re-joining the main road. If vehicles are not properly parked, the owner/driver will be asked to re-park appropriately, with help if required.
(iii) Vehicles should not at any time block or be left across the entrance to the Hostel, the adjacent side road, or our neighbour's privately owned grassed area opposite the entrance, or on the A83;
(iv) Guests must turn off engines of their vehicles/motor cycles whilst stationary within Hostel grounds.
(v) Blue badge motorists may use the disabled parking bay beside the access ramp (close to metal staircase);
(vi) Guests who keep their dog(s) in their vehicle should ensure that they have appropriate access to air and water;
(vii) All leisure equipment should be secured / locked in situ;
(viii) There is a covered, secure bike area for cycles as well as cycle racks;
(ix) Cyclists should securely fit their own lock/padlock and all removable items should be stored in their room. No cycling shoes to be worn within any inside area of the building, and under no circumstance should bicycles be stored in corridor or bedrooms.
(x) Argyll Backpackers does not accept responsibility for loss or damage to vehicles, motor cycles or cycles within the Hostel grounds and these are left at the premises wholly at the owner’s risk.
g. The self-catering kitchen comprises of 3 individual areas, (which can be separated to enable 2x ‘Unit’ if/when required). Each area has it’s own double hob, kettle, toaster & sink. A tower unit holds an array of microwaves, mini oven/grills. Each room has it’s own lockable cupboard with crockery, cutlery, glasses & teatowel. Other than during any 'sole use', or 'private unit' bookings within the main Hostel, the 2x ‘Outside Bunk Rooms’ can have access to the main Hostel 'common-areas', but they also have kettle/mugs, cool-box & microwave in each (but no crockery/cutlery, please bring your own).
h. Outside areas have 5x 4 person table/bench sets, 2x bar tables/seating, plus a purpose built Fire Pit/BBQ with log seating around it. There is also a covered outside seating area by the 2 outside rooms.
i. Argyll Backpackers is a non-smoking property and under Scottish law it is an offence to smoke anywhere within the Hostel. Therefore, smoking/vaping is not allowed inside any part of the Hostel building and is permitted only in designated areas outside the Hostel. The ashtrays provided should be used and no cigarette waste/butts should be left on the Hostel grounds.
Argyll Backpackers reserves the right to impose a maximum on-the-spot fine of £50.00 for non-compliance. The individual or lead guest, as relevant, will be responsible and charged accordingly if anyone in their group smokes in bed/bunk rooms or any internal 'common area'.
The use of illegal drugs is strictly prohibited in and around the Hostel grounds at any time. If the Warden suspects that a person is in possession of illegal drugs, the police will be asked to attend.
j. We want you to be able to enjoy a relaxing time, and as our nearest pub is 2 miles away, guests are permitted to bring/consume their own alcohol, but should drink and behave responsibly to take account of all other guests. Guests under 18 will not be permitted to drink alcohol on the premises and proof of age may be required.
k. The use of candles and camping stoves, fireworks, paper lanterns and other hazardous items within the Hostel and grounds is strictly prohibited at all times.
l. Guests found to be contravening the above policies will be asked to leave the Hostel and will not be eligible for a refund.
m. If, a guest feels that there are reasonable grounds for a complaint then this should be notified to the Warden immediately so that, if possible, appropriate action can be taken during their stay. No complaints will be considered after departure unless they were raised at the time of the guest’s stay.
7 GUEST CONDUCT
a. Inverneil is a small, quiet, countryside hamlet, and as such, noise travels easily. It is therefore the responsibility of each guest to ensure that his/her behaviour does not detrimentally affect the safety, comfort and enjoyment of other guests and/or the local residents of Inverneil. This obviously includes, respecting other guests and their property, no shouting, revving of vehicle engines or banging of car doors and not entering neighbouring private property, land or gardens.
b. Guests are required to give due consideration to the collective needs of others in the Hostel, to take due care of the facilities provided and to respect the shared environment. In the interest of maintaining community relations, Argyll Backpackers expects all guests to refrain from any activity likely to antagonise the local community or bring the Hostel into disrepute.
c. When using any equipment from the self-catering kitchen, guests must promptly & properly wash, dry and put away all items that they have used. Similarly, they must leave toilets and showers in a clean hygienic state, ready for other guests use (i.e. ‘leave things as you would expect to find them yourself’).
Guests must not take food belonging to other guests. A wall shelf & a rack in the fridge marked ‘free food’ is available for anyone to use or add to and there is adequate space for storing personal food.
d. Any guest displaying unacceptable behaviour (of any form) will be asked/told to leave the Hostel and will not be entitled to a refund. In appropriate circumstances the police will be asked to attend.
e. Guests staying more than one night should ensure that they make up their allocated bed each morning, store their luggage under their bed or in the units provided & keep the room tidy at all times during their stay. In shared 'Dorm rooms' this is so that the area and unoccupied bed(s) are available for new guests, and to enable staff to clean the room. Prior to checkout, guests must strip/fold their used bedding (duvet cover/sheet & pillow cases) and leave these on their bed (not the floor) ready for collection by staff. This ensures staff know which beds are available to re-allocate to new guests. Please note, only 'Dorm' rooms are cleaned daily and 'private' rooms after check-out. All rooms are checked daily to enable replenishment of toilet rolls and shower tokens as required. All 'common' areas are cleaned daily, unless 'Sole Use' has been booked.
f. In normal circumstances the Warden (or another designated person) will either be on site or be contactable in the event of a guest wishing to report any disturbance or misconduct by other guests.
g. Departing guests must remove their belongings from their room and check-out by 10:30hrs. After this time guests may, if available, store their luggage in an area designated by the Warden but all possessions must be removed from the bedroom by that time to allow for 'change-over'.
Any late check-out, not agreed prior with Warden/Owner, will incur a charge of an additional night.
h. There is no rigid curfew, but guests are expected to keep noise to a minimum between the hours of 23:00-07:00hrs in consideration of other guests. All main Hostel bedrooms have keypad locks, please remember your code and do not disturb Warden/Owner after 23:00 to let you in. The 2 outside bedrooms have keys. Although at times the main doors maybe locked between 23:00-07:00hrs, any guest(s) wishing to return after 23:00hrs, should please advise the Warden in advance stating their intended time of return, in order to make arrangements for entry. Exceptions for 'Unit' and 'Sole Use' as their Lead Person will be provided with a key for their door.
i. The hostel is operated on a ‘residents only’ basis for the security/comfort of our resident guests and for Fire Register as well as Insurance Company Requirements.
On that basis all guests, no matter on which booking arrangement, are discouraged from inviting any non-residents into the Hostel, but under certain circumstances may do so only with the permission of the Warden, and that the non-resident(s) is / are restricted to the ‘Common-room’ lounge area only.
Under no circumstance, are non-residents allowed access to any of the bedrooms, even when the guest has booked a 'private room'. If this is not adhered to, then the non-resident and the booked guest will be asked to leave, and no refund will be made.
Non-resident guests must not enter before 18:30hrs and must leave the building by 21:30hrs. (NB: unless by prior agreement with Manager/Duty Warden).
Argyll Backpackers is a quiet hostel that encourages all travellers be them solo, couples, families or group/friends, therefore we will not tolerate any irresponsible, threatening or drunken behaviour. Anyone found to have acted inappropriately (eg: disturbing other guests (or our neighbours), or putting their safety at risk; damaging any Hostel or neighbouring property; extreme drunkenness; * making undue mess (inc. vomit) and not properly cleaning it up and sanitising the effected area(s)...will be banned. In extreme circumstances, we may even call the police and/or pass your details onto other accommodation providers within our hostelling associations.
Our local cleaning company charge £30 per hour, (more for any non-standard cleaning), which in the case of * above, you will be liable for; plus until appropriately re-instated, you'll be liable for the full cost of any rooms that are un-usable due to your actions. Further, for any guest(s) requesting a refund due to being disturbed by your irresponsible behaviour, you will be liable to pay for their accommodation.
j. Books, games and all other recreational materials in the 'Common-Room' which are marked “Property of Argyll Backpackers Ltd” should not be taken away, as these are for the benefit of all guests. A small selection of books are available in the ‘swap library’ - if a guest wishes to take one away, then they should replace it with a book of their own.
9 EQUALITIES
9.1 General Issues
No guest will be discriminated against on the basis of race, nationality, gender, age, status, occupation, religion etc. Where an individual’s circumstances may lead to special accommodation or catering requirements, then the guest must notify Argyll Backpackers at the time of booking and certainly with at least of 72 hours prior to arrival so that appropriate adjustments can be applied, if possible.
9.2 Guests with Disabilities etc.
a. If you, or any of your party has any disability, medical condition or special needs, which may require specific facilities, this must be notified to the Warden when you make your booking and certainly with at least 72 hours advance notice. Argyll Backpackers will try to ensure that your requirements are met wherever possible.
b. Argyll Backpackers cannot provide assistance with walking, eating or other personal needs. If a guest needs this type of assistance then they must be accompanied by someone/Carer who can take care of their needs. In the case of group bookings, it is the responsibility of the group leader to ensure that all special needs requirements are identified and communicated to the Warden.
9.3 Children and Young Persons
a. Guests with infants are responsible for bringing a travel cot and all other related equipment. Guests travelling with infants must notify the Warden at the time of booking to ensure that suitable accommodation is available, as not all rooms can accommodate a cot.
b. Groups with children and young persons (i.e. under 16s) will be required to book and pay for a whole room, to enable as per the number in their group. They will be accommodated in designated family rooms, where available. Young children can share accommodation only with their parents/guardians (i.e. families with young children must book and pay for a full room nearest their group size, as children are not permitted to share with strangers, even with parents/guardian present).
Depending on the age/size of the children, it may be possible for 2 children to sleep (head/toe) in a lower bunk as they are euro sized (90x200cm). The Warden will make the final decision as to whether this will be permitted.
c. Due to the height of our custom made adult sized bunk beds, children under the age of 10 years are not permitted to occupy upper bunks, except in the triple bedroom (‘Jura’) where the minimum age for the upper bunk is 6 years. Guests travelling with children should notify the Warden at the time of booking to ensure that suitable accommodation is available.
d. From the age of 12 to 15 years, young people must be accompanied by a parent/guardian and may be accommodated in a single gendered shared room along with the parent/guardian and other guests, at the discretion and responsibility of the parent/guardian. The young person/people, the parent/guardian and the other occupants of the room must all be of the same gender. Guests travelling with young persons should notify the Warden at the time of booking to ensure that suitable accommodation is available.
e. Guests under the age of 16, even when accompanied by their responsible adult who is staying in another room away from the young person, are not permitted to stay alone in a shared 'Dorm' room with other 'unknown' guests.
f. All children and young persons under the age of 16 who wish to stay at the Hostel must be accompanied by a responsible adult (over 18 years of age; proof of age may be required).
g. Guests travelling with children and young persons should notify the Warden at the time of booking to ensure that suitable accommodation is available.
h. Young (but responsible) adults aged 16 to 17 year old are more than welcome to stay on their own in any room, including shared (but not mixed) dorms. However, the cardholder making the booking must be over 18 years and will be held fully accountable for the young adult.
10 DOGS
a. Dogs are currently welcomed foc at the Hostel including bookings for exclusive use and events, subject to the specific terms and conditions in this section.
b. Dogs must be exercised outwith the Hostel grounds and their owners must immediately clean up after them (the Warden can provide information on local dog walking route).
c. A maximum of 2 small dogs (with the prior agreement of the Warden), will only be permitted in private rooms i.e. not in shared/dorm rooms occupied by individuals not booked with the dog owner.
d. Dog owners must provide all bedding and dishes for their dog, and dogs are not permitted in the kitchen, on beds, seats or other furniture. They are allowed into the 'Common-room' as long as no other guest objects, so please ask first.
e. If any dog displays aggressive/unmanageable behaviour, it will not be permitted access to the Hostel.
11 ACCURACY OF PUBLISHED INFORMATION
a. Argyll Backpackers exercises reasonable care and due diligence when producing electronic and printed materials on Hostel facilities and local attractions. It is the responsibility of the guest making the booking, that they have read/noted the room and facilities are suitable to their requirements. However, Argyll Backpackers reserves the right to revise, update or make obsolete some or all of the contents without obligation to notify any person of such changes; (b.& c).
b. Despite these precautions and procedures errors, omissions or discrepancies may occur in the preparation of promotional material and information documents (electronic and printed), and Argyll Backpackers accepts no liability for loss or damages incurred due in part or in whole to such errors.
c. In particular, any maps and photographs displayed in Argyll Backpackers printed and electronic materials are for illustrative purposes only.
11 LIABILITY
a. Every person on hostel premises shall, at all times, be deemed to be there at his/her own risk. He/she shall have no claim against Argyll Backpackers Ltd in respect of any accident which may occur, or injury, damage or loss how so ever caused, except in so far as the injury, damage or loss is caused by the direct negligence of Argyll Backpackers Ltd.
b. Subject to para (c) below, Argyll Backpackers Ltd does not accept liability for death, sickness or injury to any guest or for the damage to the property of any guest however sustained or caused, except when directly attributable to Argyll Backpackers Limited.
c. It is the responsibility of each guest to ensure that their belongings are secure at all times. Rooms 1-5 have digital key pads, and keys are available for the outside 'Dorm' rooms 6 and 7 (for a refundable deposit of £5 each), when booked for private use.
d. Under current legislation “a hotel proprietor may, in certain circumstances, make good any loss or damage to a guest's property even though it was not due to any fault of the proprietor or staff of the hotel”.
The limitations of this liability are stated as for hotels, not actual hostels, but may and only if agreed by the Hostel Owner/Director:
i) It extends only to the property of guests who have engaged sleeping accommodation at the hostel;
ii) It is limited to a maximum of £50.00 for any one article and a total of £100.00 in the case of any one guest (proof of purchase will be required), except in the case of property which has been deposited for safe custody with the Owner/Director/Manager/Duty Warden;
iii) It does not cover motor cars, motor bikes, cycles or other vehicles of any kind, or any property left in/on them, or horses or other live animals.
This statement does not include an admission either that these provisions apply to this hostel or that liability thereunder attaches to the proprietor of this hostel in any particular case.
e. Argyll Backpackers will not be responsible for failure or improper performance when:
f. Argyll Backpackers is not responsible for any arrangements a guest makes with external providers whilst staying at the Hostel.
g. For other unforeseen internal operational reasons, Argyll Backpackers may occasionally be forced to change or cancel one or more of the guest’s booking dates. In such cases, every effort will be made to contact the guest in advance, using the contact details supplied at the time of booking or during any subsequent communication.
Argyll Backpackers Ltd cannot accept any liability where the booking could not be fulfilled due to circumstances which we could not, not even with due care, have foreseen or avoided.
h. Whilst everything will be done within reason to attend to repairs to the property, or any furniture, equipment or facility that may be faulty or fail during a guest’s stay, no guarantees will be given and no refunds will be granted should any breakdown occur and not be immediately rectified.
i. Argyll Backpackers maintains standard public liability insurance cover. If you require details of the cover in advance, this can be obtained from the Owner/Director on request. Guests are not covered by our insurance for personal injury, damage or theft of property whilst in the Hostel, or public transport delays/cancellations. Guests are advised to ensure that they are covered independently for such events. Argyll Backpackers strongly recommends personal travel insurance, including cancellation insurance.
12 DATA PROTECTION
As required by current UK Data Protection law, Argyll Backpackers complies fully with all requisite policy and procedures in relation to the collection, storage, use and disclosure of information provided to us. A copy of our Privacy Notice is available on our website but can also be provided on request.
13 GOVERNING LAW
The contract between Argyll Backpackers and the Guest, and any matters arising from it, will be governed by Scottish Law. Scottish Courts will have exclusive jurisdiction to deal with all disputes.
14 FIRE SAFETY/EMERGENCIES
A member of staff is on call at all times for emergencies only. Out of Hours, their telephone number is on the corridor Notice Board, plus outside of the Main Door, there is also the door bell connected to the Owner's accommodation. The Group Leader is ultimately responsible for their group and in the event of an evacuation, must ensure that they have a full list of individual names for a Roll Call.
At no point should any guest interfere with any Fire Safety/Emergency equipment, including but not restricted to covering any Smoke Detectors or Emergency Lights.
15 Force Majeure:
Argyll Backpackers Ltd cannot accept any liability where the booking could not be fulfilled due to circumstances which we could not, not even with due care, have foreseen or avoided.
Events may include but are not limited to war, threat of war, civil commotion or strife, hostilities, strikes or other industrial dispute, natural disaster, act of god, terrorist activities, technical problems with transportation, closures of airports, ports and/or ferries, quarantine, epidemics, weather conditions, government action or other events outside our control.