GROUP TRIP/RETREAT FAQs
Can anyone apply to join a group trip/retreat?
Yes! here’s how it works: For each BLK GETAWAY trip or retreat, all prospective guests must be 21+ and join the waitlist (a special early access list shared prior to trip/retreat registration launch) or complete our trip/retreat form. If interested, click here to complete the free application form. See our full terms of service here.
Our application process is designed to get to know you and your interests better, ensure you are the right fit for group dynamics and confirm if we are able to meet your needs throughout the trip journey. Note: Access to book trips is based on an “approved” application. Please allow 48-72 hours for a response once your application is submitted. Non-approved applicants will not be allowed to book their elected trip.
Once BLK GETAWAY receives and approves your application form, you will receive a booking link to reserve your spot on the trip (the booking link is non-transferable and is only for you). We encourage you to book your trip as early as possible once you receive the booking link (payment plans are available). Each trip is intimate and only offers a limited number of spaces so act fast!
Do I need to be vaccinated to join a trip/retreat?
Yes! All BLK GETAWAY trip/retreat guests must be fully vaccinated at least 14 days prior to arrival. Proof of vaccination is required and a COVID-19 waiver will be shared with you for reference.
Do I need anything for International Travel?
For International Getaways (including South America, Europe, Caribbean, Asia, etc.), you will need a valid passport. And in some cases will need a visa and/or vaccinations to enter that specified country. We will outline all International travel documentation and vaccination requirements once you book your trip.
Is my trip refundable? What happens if I need to cancel?
Deposits for every trip are non-refundable due to upfront costs we must incur. Minus your deposit, if cancellation takes place 89-31 days prior, 50% of your trip price will be forfeited. If cancellation takes place within 30 days of the trip, 100% of your trip will be forfeited. We can consider making an exception if you are able to book someone to take your place and/or medical and family emergencies with proof.
Can I rejoin my original trip if I cancelled?
If you cancel your original booking with us, you will have 48 hours to rescind the cancellation before you are not allowed to rejoin that particular getaway. Why? Because our trips are extremely intimate and book quickly. We typically have a waitlist of guests that want to join and once your trip is cancelled, we allow the next person on our waitlist to book. If your trip is canceled within thirty (30) days of the trip date, you will have 24 hours to rescind the cancellation before you are no longer allowed to join. As previously mentioned, your original deposit is non-refundable. See our full terms of service here
Can I extend my trip/retreat stay?
You are more than welcome to book your travel to arrive early and/or stay later. If so, please note you will be responsible for the cost of your room at the hotel/resort for those additional days. Feel free to contact us directly if you’d like to make any modifications to your trip and we will try our best to work with the hotel/resort to extend your stay at a modified rate (rate modifications are not guaranteed. Based on hotel/resort discretion.)
Can I travel solo or with a guest?
If you would like to invite a friend, family member, or partner to a BLK GETAWAY trip, they will need to fill out a trip application form and follow the same approval process as you have (if they haven’t already done so)! Once approved or if they are on the waitlist, both of you can work on booking a trip package with room sharing needs that suit you.
If you are traveling solo, and you’re open to sharing a room or suite with another approved, like-minded guest, we can pair someone with you. All you’ll need to do is put your deposit down for the room of your choice, and at check out select “YES, i’d like to be matched with another solo traveler."
Once matched, we will connect you with your suitemate at least 30-60 days prior to the trip so you can get to know each other leading up to your departure.
What if I have more questions or need to make changes to my reservation?
We will do our best to make modifications to your reservations and/or accommodate special requests. Please e-mail info@blkgetaway.com and use “[TRIP UPDATES] “ADD TRIP NAME HERE” to the subject line. Please allow at least 48hrs for a response.
When should I apply for a BLK GETAWAY trip?
You should apply ASAP! Space is limited on our group trips/retreats to create a more exclusive/dynamic experience. The sooner you apply, the sooner we can process your application and share a booking link with approved applicants. If you are a BLK GETAWAY waitlister, you will receive first access to book our group trips days prior to other subscribers and followers.
How do you determine the trip price?
We believe in curating unforgettable travel/retreat experiences that give you the lux VIP treatment without breaking the bank. We continually strive to offer the most competitive trip rates around. We work closely with vendors and agents in coinciding country’s to offer you the most affordable, yet premium, travel experience.
How are you handling COVID-19 health/safety protocols when traveling?
With the state of the pandemic, we are taking the health and safety guidelines in the United States and each country we travel to very seriously. Your health and safety is our top priority. For each trip, we will implement the following guidelines:
If you do not feel well and/or think you’ve gotten coronavirus, PLEASE REFRAIN FROM BOOKING A TRIP WITH US!
All confirmed travel guests are required to sign a COVID-19 agreement prior to departure and be fully vaccinated at least 14 days prior to arrival
Most countries require tourists to take a COVID-19 test at least 24hrs prior to arrival. We will communicate our destination COVID-19 guidelines in our operational emails to confirmed guests at least 60 days prior to departure
Hotels are following strict COVID-19 health precautions including cleaning all common areas throughout the day, social distancing tables/chairs in restaurants, covering any open food and refreshments, etc.
Upon arrival, all guests will receive a complimentary face mask and sanitizer for added safety
All guests are required to wear a face mask in common areas and we will work to follow social distancing rules when/if applicable
If we anticipate any red flags or health/safety issues surrounding our travel destination, we will immediately reach out and share updates with confirmed travel guests
What happens if the pandemic or a natural disaster interferes with our trip?
We’ve worked with all vendors, travel companies, and hotel partners to include a Force Majeure clause into our travel agreements. Meaning, should a pandemic or disaster interfere with our group trip, we will move our travel to a later date or discuss reimbursement options.
Once I book my trip, how will you communicate travel updates and documents?
All updates, guides, travel requirements, etc. will be sent and shared electronically via email. Shortly after we receive your payment we will send you your initial confirmation e-mail with preliminary next steps. Final guides and documents will be sent via email no later than 30 days prior to the departure.
What’s included in a group trip package?
Please refer to the current getaways page to see our current trip offerings. We’ve listed all accommodations and inclusions in the “What’s Included” section of the trip package page. When a trip is listed/available, each package page will outline what’s included, what’s NOT included, and package options. During the trips, if you choose to go on any additional excursions outside of the scheduled BLK GETAWAY activities, you will be responsible for those costs, reservations, and transportation.
Will we have any downtime during the group trips?
We build leisure/downtime into ALL BLK GETAWAY trips/retreats! This downtime will allow you to reflect on the relationships you’ve created, what you’ve learned, explore the town like a local, and process how you want to make moves going forward.
How are your group trips different from others?
We specialize in curating experiences that are fulfilling, push you out of your comfort zone, and encourage you to tap into your hidden potential and talents. Our group trips are more than a vacation, it’s your chance to grow and thrive:
Bonding with other like-minded BLK GETAWAY guests who are both successful and ambitious
Trips hosted in intimate groups of 15-20 guests to ensure you receive a holistic experience
Getaways to coveted national or international destinations where we Identify areas of cultural relevance and integrate them into our travel journey
Thematic programming and adventures tailored to your needs and interests
Luxury white-glove services and experiences include transportation, meals, cocktail parties, concierge support, premium gifting on-site, exclusive tours and demos, etc.
Do I need to book my own flight?
Yes! You are responsible for booking your own flight to and from the getaway destination
Once I book my trip, what’s next? When will I receive details (i.e. itinerary, payment updates, etc.)?
Upon booking, you will receive a welcome message with general trip details. If you opted for a payment plan, you will also receive payment reminders
As the date of the trip approaches over the next few months you will receive emails on specifics relevant to your trip including your itinerary (final itinerary/schedule shared at least 30 days prior to departure), COVID-19 waiver, COVID-19 health/safety measures, preference requests including meals, adventures, activity interactions + a welcome guide that includes: what to bring, currency requirements, weather updates, and more!
You will also be invited to a TRIP CHECK-IN CALL—group zoom call hosted by Delisha Fields, founder of BLK GETAWAY, at least 30 days prior to our departure. The call will be used to answer any outstanding questions, meet other trip guests, and get hyped for our getaway!
Are there any age restrictions I should keep in mind?
Our trips appeal to a wide range of black millennials around the globe who love travel, have ambitious careers, and want to bond with like-minded people so they can thrive! To travel with BLK GETAWAY you must be at least 21 years of age at the time of purchase. You should expect to join a group of millennials on each trip within the 25 - 40 year-old age range.
Is my spot guaranteed when I book online?
Only those that receive a direct booking link will have the option to book the trip. Once the trip is booked and your deposit is paid, your spot is reserved. We also update our website and share e-mails with the number of remaining spots we have available. If you’d like a friend/loved one/family member to join, they must apply here first.
Should I purchase Travel Insurance?
Travel insurance is not mandatory however we HIGHLY recommend you do purchase when booking your flight, particularly during this health climate/or if you have a pre-existing condition(s). If you choose to do so, we suggest that you add “cancel for any reason” or “cancel for work reasons” to your policy.
Should you have any further questions about travel insurance, the policy, cancellation terms, etc. We suggest you use the below tool to choose the best insurance that suits your needs.
IS TIPPING INCLUDED IN ANY ACTIVITIES/EXCURSIONS THAT WE DO?
Tips are not included in the tour price and tipping is entirely at your discretion.