General FAQs

• What is included with FREE MEALS AND HAPPY HOURS?

  FREE MEALS and HAPPY HOURS are included in your Spring Break package in select international destinations if you book with a deposit by October 31st. Typically, the free meal plan consists of 14 meals vouchers (2 per day) to redeem at local restaurants. Vouchers can be used toward entrees offered on a special spring break menu set up by each restaurant. Each meal may require an additional $1 tax and/or $1 tip.

  StudentCity.com also offers additional Happy Hours. These are also located at various restaurants and bars around the city. Upon arrival, you will be given a schedule of where the Happy Hour drinks are offered, at what time, and what specific drinks are included.

  Most meal plans may also be purchased (or replaced if lost) for an additional cost; please see Destination Specific FAQs for prices or by calling 1.888.777.4642

• What is All-Inclusive? How is that different from a standard room?

  Some hotels that StudentCity.com offers may have an All-Inclusive room option, a Standard room option or a combination of both. With an All-Inclusive room option, the cost of your trip includes your meals and drinks at your hotel by showing your All-Inclusive wristband provided to you when you check-in. The Standard room option means that you are only booking a hotel room at that hotel and you will need to purchase your hotel meals and drinks separately while you are a guest. If the hotel offers both room types they will be able to distinguish between guests by assigning different color wristbands which will identify which room type you purchased.

• What if I find a better price for the same package?

  StudentCity.com guarantees you will not find a better value or price than our Spring Break trips, but in the unlikely event that you do find the same Spring Break packages offered for a lower price, we'll not just match it, but bust it by 150% of the price difference. That means that if you find an identical trip for $50 less than ours, we'll give you a $75 discount off that trip. We call that our Price Buster Guarantee. Valid for new bookings only and some restrictions may apply.

• Is travel protection included?

  The optional Travel Insurance is provide by Insure America, a division of Travel Guard, and will be automatically added to your reservation at the time of booking. The cost is $68 for international trips and $39 for domestic trips. Again, this is optional and although it is recommended, it may be cancelled. For more information about what this insurance includes visit: http://www.studentcity.com/docs/Travel_Insurance.pdf

• Is my money protected?

  The Department of Transportation requires that every charter company, including StudentCity.com, protect its clients' trip payments. This means if you are traveling on a charter flight for Spring Break, StudentCity.com protects your payments in part with a surety bond that we have obtained from Capitol Indemnity Corporation, 115 Glastonbury Blvd., Glastonbury, CT 06033.

  All trip payments for charter flight tours are held in escrow at Valley National Bank, 1040 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10018.

• What fees should I know about?

  Airport Fees

  If you are traveling internationally, you'll be charged U.S. and foreign departure taxes and fees in addition to your package price. These taxes and fees vary depending on your departure city and destination, and may change if the government changing the fees between the time you book and the time you travel. Passengers are responsible for any changes in taxes and fees. Tours may also include a processing fee that varies by destination. When you price your trip, all airport fees and processing fees will be on your final price.

  Fuel Surcharge

  StudentCity.com bases prices for each trip on historical fuel cost estimates up to a year in advance, but if the price of fuel goes up between then and now, the DOT requires that every airline charge a fuel surcharge. Due to the volatility of current world events and the highly speculative oil commodities, we have no way to predict what the price of jet fuel would be at the time of travel. All fuel-related increases and/or charges/refunds will be assessed no later than 10 days prior to departure and must be paid by all customers, regardless of whether account is paid in full or not.

  Hotel Fees/Damage Deposits/Security Deposits

  Hotels reserve the right to charge a refundable damage/security deposit that is collected at check in and returned if there is no damage to your room. In many hotels, this can be placed at the time of check in with a credit card, but be prepared to pay cash if the hotel requires it. This will range from $50 to $100 per person. In rare instances, hotels may charge additional gratuities, non-refundable usages fees, etc. either in advance or at check-in. These hotel-specific fees will show up on your invoice if they are collected in advance, or in your trip documents and on our website if you need to pay at the hotel.

  The Oasis Hotels in Cancun, Mexico charge a non-refundable damage fee of $27 per person that will be collected by the hotel upon your arrival.

  Every hotel in South Padre Island will charge a partially non-refundable damage fee, fee varies by hotel. Please check with the hotel before you go down for details.

  Change Fees

  Changes are no problem as long as our suppliers can accommodate the request. We can't make any guarantees, but we do promise to make every effort on your behalf. There is a per person fee, minimum $30, for changing a reservation in any way once StudentCity.com has received the deposit. Adding customers to an existing reservation is NOT considered a change. Change fees will be applied for, but are not limited to the following situations: name changes, hotel changes, destination changes. These additional fees will appear on your final price after change has been made.

  Fuel Surcharge

  StudentCity.com bases prices for each trip on historical fuel cost estimates up to a year in advance, but if the price of fuel goes up between then and now, the DOT requires that every airline charge a fuel surcharge. Due to the volatility of current world events and the highly speculative oil commodities, we have no way to predict what the price of jet fuel would be at the time of travel. All fuel-related increases and/or charges/refunds will be assessed no later than 10 days prior to departure and must be paid by all customers, regardless of whether account is paid in full or not.

  Cancellation Fees

  Once your place has been confirmed, you must submit your cancellation in writing. Unless you have purchased the Comprehensive Travel Protection Plan, Reservations are non-refundable. We get you the best deals by purchasing non-refundable specials with our suppliers, and apologize that we are unable to reimburse you, unless you are covered by a StudentCity.com Travel Protection package and are withdrawing due to medical reasons. Also, since hotel rooms are rented by occupancy, if you do cancel your trip, your roommates will need to make up the difference of your fee (they'll have to absorb your part of the bill.) In order to avoid losing out on a ton of money, we recommend that you find somebody to take your place.

  Cancellation and fees are subject to the following schedule:

  
  1. 61 days or more prior to your Final Payment Due Date (FPDD): Cancellations received in our office 61 days or more prior to your FPDD will be assessed a fee of $250, or required initial package deposit, whichever is greater, plus any transportation (airline, bus, ship, etc.) and/or attraction-imposed fees (park passes, ski tickets, etc.).
  
  2. 60 days or less; up until your Final Payment Due Date (FPDD): Cancellations received in our office 60 days or less (up to your FPDD) will be assessed a fee of $325, or required initial package deposit, whichever is greater, plus transportation (airline, ship, bus, etc.) and/or attraction imposed charges/fees (park passes, ski tickets, etc.).
  
  3. After your Final Payment Due Date (FPDD): Cancellations received in our office after your FPDD will render all movies previously paid to be non-refundable, unless you have purchased the Travel Protection Insurance Plan.

• Will I have a direct flight?

  You are not guarenteed a direct flight.

• On which airline will I fly?

  This depends on which flight option you choose. You may choose a preferred airline when you book your trip, usually for a fee in addition to our standard package price. Otherwise, we utilize many different charter and scheduled airlines, including, but not limited to, Air Jamaica, American, US Air, Jet Blue, AirTran, Continental, USA3000, Miami Air International, and North American Airlines.

  All charter airlines are subject to the same maintenance rules and inspections put forth by the FAA. In some cases you will be flown on a scheduled airline or in seats that we have purchased through a charter airline not listed above.

  All flight info will be posted to your online account no later than 3 weeks prior to departure.

• On which kinds of planes will we fly?

  Aircraft types vary by carrier, but most routes are flown by Boeing 727, 737, and/or 757 aircrafts that carry anywhere from 150-225 passengers. Some connections may utilize smaller aircraft on shorter routes.

• What if I miss my flight?

  If you miss your flight on the inbound route, you will need to contact the airline immediately and try to fly standby on another flight. Also, you will need to check the status of your outbound (returning) flight. Most times the airline will automatically cancel this, especially if you purchased a second ticket through another airline.

  If you miss your return flight, you must go to the airport immediately and contact the carrier to find the next available flight. You will be responsible for paying all fees that may apply.

• What if my flight is delayed?

  In the event of a flight delay, please be patient and understand that everyone involved is working to get each traveler to his or her destination as quickly and safely as possible. If you leave the tour, make long distance phone calls, or incur expenses, regardless of reason, you will not be reimbursed. Flight delays are unfortunate, but are an inherent risk in air travel. As a result of recent changes in US D.O.T. regulations, air carriers/tour companies are no longer required to provide any compensation (i.e. meals, accommodations, missed vacation time and features) unless a delay is more than 48 hours. If you have purchased comprehensive travel protection, which has provisions for flight delays, please contact Insure America upon return to the USA.

• Can I purchase air-only or use frequent flyer miles?

  Yes, StudentCity.com does offer an air-only option to our destinations, as well as a hotel-only option if you would like to purchase your own flight. We do not accept frequent flyer miles, but if you wish to use them, you have the option to book hotel-only and book your own flight. Please call us at 1-888-777-4642 so we can help you set up these options.

  If you are looking for airfare to a destination we do not offer check out the deals for student airfare through StudentUniverse.com

• When do I get my travel documents?

  Travel documents will not be made available until passengers have made a full payment and accepted the customer agreement online (simply click “I Accept” online when prompted).

  For itineraries that do not require paper airline tickets, you MUST print your travel vouchers by accessing your account on our website; NOTHING WILL BE MAILED TO YOU. If you have provided us with an email address, email notification will be sent to you, your group leader, travel agent, or StudentCity.com Campus Representative when your tickets are ready, usually 5-14 days prior to departure. StudentCity.com is not responsible for undelivered or misdirected mail or email.

• How much luggage should I bring?

  Please note that many airlines now charge a fee for checked baggage. Please contact your airline carrier directly to see if you are subject to checked bag fees. StudentCity recommends that you can avoid most baggage fees by packing light and only checking one piece of luggage. Typically, airlines allow each traveler to bring 1 piece of luggage at no charge. Checked luggage should measure no more than 62 inches and have a maximum weight of 44 lbs; carry on bag must be able to fit under the seat in front of you.

• Do I need a passport?

  The Departments of State and Homeland Security now require US citizens to have a passport for international travel. So if you are traveling to any of our Mexico or Caribbean destinations, you will need to obtain a passport prior to departure. More info on how to get a passport.

• What if I will not be 18 years old at the time of my trip?

  You must be 18 to travel with StudentCity.com during our college Spring Break weeks. If you are traveling during a high school spring vacations week you should be following the guidelines set for you with our high school division at GradCity.com. If you are in college at age 17, the U.S. government requires students under the age of 18 traveling with us to provide a notarized letter from both your parents/legal guardians permitting you to travel outside the U.S. (Both parents must sign and the letter must be notarized even if they are separated or divorced. In the event that one parent is deceased, you will need a notarized letter from your living parent along with a copy of the death certificate for your deceased parent.)

  Download a pre-written "Minor Authorization to Travel Letter" now!

  Remember, if you don't bring the right documentation to the airport you won't be allowed to board the plane and we'll, unfortunately, have to forfeit your entire trip!

• What if I am not a U.S. citizen?

  If you are not a U.S. citizen, it is your responsibility to contact your local consulate and secure the necessary documents needed to travel to your chosen destination.

  If you don't bring the right documentation to the airport you won't be allowed to board the plane and unfortunately, you'll have to forfeit your entire trip.

• Do I need any shots to travel out of the country?

  According the Center for Disease Control (CDC,) you will not need shots for travel to any of our current destinations. For more information, visit the CDC website at http://www.cdc.gov/travel/destinat.htm.

• What happens if I register now but I am late in paying for the trip?

  If you are late paying for your trip after final payment you will be assessed a late fee and will be subject to cancellation. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this policy, please contact Customer Service at 1-888-777-4642.

• What if I have to cancel or change my reservation? What is your refund policy?

  Changes are no problem as long as our suppliers can accommodate the request. We can't make any guarantees, but we do promise to make every effort on your behalf. There is a per person fee, minimum $30, for changing a reservation in any way once StudentCity.com has received the initial deposit. Adding customers to an existing reservation is NOT considered a change. Change fees will be applied for, but are not limited to the following situations: name changes, hotel changes, destination changes. These additional fees will appear on your final price after change has been made.

  Once your trip has been confirmed, you must submit your cancellation in writing to customerservice@studentcity.com. Unless you have purchased the Comprehensive Travel Protection Plan, reservations are non-refundable. Since hotel rooms are rented by occupancy, if you do cancel your trip, your roommates will need to make up the difference of your fee (they'll have to absorb your part of the bill.) In order to avoid losing out on a ton of money, we recommend that you find somebody to take your place. Please read your Tour Participation Agreement for more details on the Cancellation Policy or refer to the "What fees should I know about?" section of the FAQs.

• Can I transfer my booking to someone else?

  In most cases, yes, you may transfer your booking to someone else, free of charge, if you have not yet placed your initial deposit. There will be a name change fee added to the new reservation for this transfer once the initial deposit has been made. If flights have already been purchased, you may be assessed an additional fee from the airline, or not be able to transfer your booking to someone else. Please contact us at 1.888.777.4642 if you are looking to do a name change on your trip, and we'll do our best to accommodate your needs.

• Will random people be put in my room?

  No. You are responsible for finding your own roommate(s). Should any or all of your roommate(s) cancel, you will be responsible for the increased price due to occupancy changes prior to departure.

• How can I pay for my trip?

  StudentCity.com accepts checks and money orders, as well as Visa, MasterCard and Discover. You may make credit card payments on our secure website or by calling our office 1.888.777.4642. For checks and money orders please send them to:

  StudentCity.com
  Reservation Department
  8 Essex Center Drive
  Peabody, MA 01960
  

• Are hotel deposits required?

  Hotels reserve the right to charge a refundable damage/security deposit that is collected at check in and returned if there is no damage to your room. In many hotels, this can be placed at the time of check in with a credit card, but be prepared to pay cash if the hotel requires it. This will range from $50 to $100 per person. In rare instances, hotels may charge additional gratuities, non-refundable usages fees, etc. either in advance or at check-in. These hotel-specific fees will show up on your invoice if they are collected in advance, or in your trip documents and on our website if you need to pay at the hotel.

  The Oasis Hotels in Cancun, Mexico charge a non-refundable damage fee of $20-$50 per person that will be collected by the hotel upon your arrival.

• Tell me more about the events.

  StudentCity.com organizes tons of events for the popular travel locations, combining local flavor with our own high-energy party style. We'll organize theme nights at local clubs, open bar specials, beach parties, and contests. We also line up more celebrity hosts and entertainers than any other tour operator. You can visit our Celebrity Page to get updates on the locations, events, and celebrities and where they will be for Spring Break.

  In addition, every StudentCity.com traveler receives special status at our partner restaurants and clubs at our destinations that feature dinner parties and meal plans. Your free StudentCity.com wristband will get you deals and entrance into StudentCity.com activities.

  For even better deals you can buy a CityPass™ that will get you into the most popular exclusive parties, events, and activities at a highly discounted price. This is available at our most popular Spring Break destinations. You can either buy at the time of booking (which is the easiest) or at any time before you leave, both online or by calling 1.888.777.4642.

  You can also purchase the StudentCity.com CityPass on location at your Welcome Orientation; however, as packages do sell out, we strongly recommend buying before you leave.

• Does StudentCity.com supply chaperones?

  No, StudentCity.com views its student travelers as responsible adults. Our expert staff will be on location at our events to assist you and on call 24 hours a day.*

  In addition, staff will provide all travelers with a complete orientation upon arrival. We'll tell you what to do in case of emergency, how to find our staff, and other important information to ensure maximum safety and fun.

  In some locations, StudentCity.com partners with other tour operators who will provide you with various types of orientations and assistance. You should check with a Customer Service representative at 1.888.777.4642 to find out exactly what is available at your location, or check the destination page on the website.

  * For most destinations. Exceptions do apply.

Affiliate FAQ

• Who is StudentCity.com?

  StudentCity.com is the largest provider of college Spring Break vacation services in the United States. Our mission statement is to "Help students organize and promote trips which enable them to celebrate youth through travel." StudentCity.com sells more Spring Break trips than any other provider in the industry. StudentCity.com is owned by First Choice Holidays, one of the largest publicly-traded travel companies in the world. StudentCity.com has been operating continuously since 1989.

• What is the StudentCity.com Affiliate Program?

  The StudentCity.com Affiliate program allows you to place links to the StudentCity.com site on your website. When a student books a Spring Break package through your link and unique rep code, you will earn revenue. An affiliate is a person or company that places a StudentCity.com banner, text link, or other form of trackable StudentCity.com advertising on their website. As on online affiliate, your only responsibility would be to maintain our link on your website.

• How much can I earn?

  You can earn up to 7% of each trip booked through your affiliate rep code. With an average trip cost of $800, and the average group size of six, the earning potential is unlimited. Studies have shown that 37% of all college students travel on Spring Break, and with ten million college students in the United States, the market is huge. Example: 50,000 college students visit your website each month. 37% of which are potential Spring Breakers, If only .5% click on the StudentCity.com link and ultimately book a trip, that will equate to 92 students. With an average group size of 6, the total number of travelers would be 552. At an average trip price of $800, the earning potential is over $30,000! Affiliates are also compensated $5 per trip for all Reps referred to StudentCity.com through your website.

• What is a "trip"?

  A trip is one package booked for one person, paid in full. Commission is based on the base price, and any applicable peak week charge and/or departure city add-on. Commission would not be paid on foreign departure taxes, fuel surcharges, processing fees, insurance plans, meal plans, party packages, or any other optional add-ons.

• What is Spring Break?

  Spring Break is one week off of classes in college during the spring semester. Each school typically has one week off sometime between the last weeks in February through the end of April. It is estimated that over 3.7 million students will travel somewhere during this period, making it one of the biggest travel periods of the year.

• How are my sales tracked?

  StudentCity.com has developed a real-time tracking website. You can login at any point and track your sales and commission. Each person that links to our website through your website will be cookied with your unique affiliate code. Once a student books a trip, it will be displayed on your tracking station. You will be sent your login information upon approval of your application.

• How do I earn commission?

  Commission is paid on paid-in-full trips. Our final payment date is January 3rd. 80% of our trips are booked prior to this date. Once a customer has paid-in-full, you earn commission on the sale, even if the customer cancels later.

• How do I sign up?

  Click here to fill out our application. If after review your site meets our terms and conditions, we will send you everything you need to get started.

• How will I be paid?

  You will be paid via check no later than April 30th, 2008. You may also have the option to be paid in January, after our first final payment deadline.

• Why StudentCity.com?

  We're the biggest, the best, and the most reliable Spring Break company on the planet. You will be joining our growing network affiliates across the country. We offer a very competitive commission rate and a tracking cookie that lasts for 5 years. Most websites allow cookies to expire after 30 days; however, we feel that if they found StudentCity.com through YOUR website, then you should receive credit no matter when they book their trip!

• What happens next?

  Once your apply, your application will be reviewed. If approved, we will contact you via phone or email and discuss the next steps. We will generate your unique Rep code, tracking website, login information, and all necessary advertising links and banners.

• What does it cost to join?

  Nothing! It's absolutely free to join.

• Who is eligible to become a StudentCity.com Affiliate?

  Any company or individual can fill out an application, and we will accept a wide variety of sites into our program. However, we do reserve the right to refuse any site that does not comply with our terms and conditions.

• Can a website outside of the United States join?

  Yes! We have a growing international interest in American Spring Break tours. If you feel that you have the market, you are more than welcome to apply to be an affiliate.

• How do I use StudentCity.com links?

  Upon approval of your application, we will send you customized links. Simply place these on your website where they will be seen by your visitors. You don't have to do anything else!

• How do StudentCity.com cookied links work?

  Every time someone clicks a link to our webpage, their computer will be cookied with your website's unique rep code. The cookie will be active for 5 years. When a customer that found us through your website books a trip, that reservation and all of the travelers in the reservation will be credited to you as long as the cookie isn't cleared from their computer. Also, any customer that requests information from us will also be cookied. Once we contact them and book their trip, our system will automatically apply your rep code to the sale.