TERMS of Use

Last Updated: 19/11/2025

Welcome to Alpha and Omega Encounters (“A&O Encounters”), a ministry and travel service provider offering faith-based tours, including visits to the Seven Churches of Revelation in Turkey, as well as local events and retreats. These Terms and Conditions govern your use of our website at https://ao-encounters.co.za, and any bookings or services made through it.

By using the Website or booking a service, you agree to comply with these Terms and our commitment to the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA).

  1. ABOUT US

Alpha and Omega Encounters offers:

  • Christian tours and pilgrimages, including trips from South Africa to Turkey.
  • Spiritual retreats, conferences, and events.
  • Travel consultation and booking services for the above purposes.
  1. PERSONAL INFORMATION & POPIA COMPLIANCE

We are committed to protecting your privacy in accordance with POPIA. By engaging with AO Encounters, you consent to the processing of your personal information as outlined below.

2.1. What We Collect

We collect the following personal information:

  • Full Name, ID/Passport Number
  • Contact details (email, phone, address)
  • Emergency contact
  • Dietary, medical, or accommodation preferences
  • Travel documentation and visa details (as needed)
  • Payment information (handled securely by third-party processors)

2.2. Why We Collect It

Your information is used to:

  • Complete travel bookings and accommodation arrangements
  • Facilitate visa applications and international travel
  • Communicate event updates and tour logistics
  • Provide spiritual and logistical support for your journey
  • Comply with legal and immigration requirements

2.3. How We Store It

Your information is securely stored on encrypted systems and is only accessible to authorized personnel. We do not retain your data longer than necessary.

2.4. Disclosure

We may share relevant information with:

  • Airlines, hotels, and visa agencies
  • Tour partners and ministry leaders
  • Legal or governmental bodies when required

We do not sell your information.

  1. YOUR RIGHTS UNDER POPIA

You have the right to:

  1. BOOKING TERMS

4.1. Deposits and Payments

  • A non-refundable deposit is required to confirm bookings.
  • Full payment deadlines will be communicated per tour.
  • Payments are accepted via EFT or approved payment providers.

4.2. Cancellations and Refunds

  • Cancellations must be made in writing.
  • Refunds are subject to third-party policies (airlines, hotels).
  • Admin fees and non-refundable deposits will be deducted.

4.3. Travel Insurance

You are strongly advised to purchase travel insurance. AO Encounters is not liable for medical emergencies, baggage loss, or trip cancellations.

4.4. Passport & Visa

Participants are responsible for ensuring valid passports and visa documents. Assistance will be provided but final responsibility lies with the traveler.

  1. WEBSITE USAGE

By using our Website, you agree not to:

  • Misuse or attempt to breach our security systems
  • Use automated tools (bots, scrapers) without permission
  • Share misleading, illegal, or offensive content

We may restrict access to users violating these terms.

  1. COOKIES & TRACKING

The Website may use cookies for functionality and analytics. You may disable cookies in your browser, although this may affect functionality.

  1. INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY

All Website content, including text, images, logos, and itineraries, is the property of A&O Encounters or its partners. Unauthorized reproduction is prohibited.

  1. LIMITATION OF LIABILITY

AO Encounters acts as an agent between the traveler and service providers. While we take every reasonable step to ensure safety and accuracy, we are not liable for:

  • Service failures by third-party providers
  • Travel disruptions, visa issues, or personal emergencies
  • Force majeure events (e.g., pandemics, natural disasters)

Participants join tours at their own risk and are expected to comply with group conduct and host country regulations.

  1. CHANGES TO TERMS

These Terms may be updated occasionally. Any changes will be posted on this page with a revised date. Continued use of the Website indicates acceptance.

  1. CONTACT DETAILS

For questions, data access, or complaints, please contact us:

Alpha and Omega Encounters
Email: info@ao-encounters.co.za
Phone: +27 71 746 5495
Website: https://ao-encounters.co.za
Postal Address: 9 Buckingham Road, Vincent, East London, Eastern Cape, South Africa, 5217