FAQs - FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Does the program package include airfare?
No, most adventure travel programs do not include airfare. However, there are ways to get free airfare, check out our TRAVEL 4 FREE page.
What does the program not include, will there be any hidden fees or surprises?
On each program page is a general descrition of what is included in your program. Basically, everything is included, except for food (unless in The V Word Retreat), airfare, travel insurance and transport to and from airport. There will be surprises, but good surprises... such as weekend or day-long getaways camping, mountain biking or sky diving, which will be entirely paid for.
Is tipping expected?
No, apart from the few things listed above, everything is included, so no tipping necessary, unless you want to give a small donation to your volunteer organization but this is not expected.
How many people can I expect to find in a Barefeet Adventures program?
There will never be fewer than five, and never be more than 12.
Will I know ahead of time who my traveling companions will be, or how many there will be?
You will know how many, but you will not know who they are until you arrive at the program office. We are not legally able to disclose people's personal infomation.
Will I know ahead of time who my program guides and instructors will be?
Yes you will. As we get closer and closer to each program date, you will receive a Program Prep Pack, with more detailed descriptions about the program and location. Eg: schedule, equipment list, volunteer projects, teachers involved, local weather stats and a recommended packing list.
Can you arrange my travel visas for me?
We would love to help you out there, but unfortunately it is something that each indivisual must do on their own. As all the programs are less than 3 months, tourist visas are all that is required. Perhaps in the future we will be able to offer other visas. If you need any letters for your consulate or embassy, please let us know.
How much is the deposit for a program? By which dates must the deposit/full amount be paid? If I cancel, will I be refunded by deposit?
The deposit is 50% of the full program cost. This is due 60 days before the date of commencement as we need to have exact numbers and enough time to plan accordingly. The full amount is due 30 days before commencement of the program. The deposit is non refundable. The program cost (minus the deposit) is refundable if you are unable to make it due to some unforeseen circumstance. Basically, payment of the deposit sets you in for a spot, and cancellation is not only expensive and time consuming, but it can change our entire program or plan, especially since our minimum is only five participants. For those of you REALLY wanting to join a program, but struggling to pay the program fees, check out our TRAVEL 4 FREE page.
Can I pay on a payment plan?
This can certainly be arranged. We know how hard it can be to save up by your own accord, when life is so expensive nowadays. We can work out a payment plan with youm so you can pay a certain amount per week, fortnight or month leading up to the payment deadlines. Cancellation is 50% of the total amount deposited, never to exceed the full amount of deposit.
Why is there no airport pick up or drop off?
This is because people are arriving from all parts of the world, and at all times of the day and night. If we find that participants are all arriving in proximity, we will actually do an airport pickup, otherwise you must cab it. Your info pack will include all this information, including how much the cab should cost, and how long the trip will be. We will also give you a piece of paper to give to the cab driver telling him that we know the prices, and we will be paying at the other end, to avoid rip off cabbies. We will estimate your time of arrival and will be waiting for you with a nice glass of ice cold water, a hot chocky or some vino.
If I am not satisfied with the program, can I get my money back?
Unfortunately, programs are not refundable, as they are costly to us, still being a small up-and-coming enterprise. However we do everything to ensure you know exactly what to expect before you embark on an adventure, and we do everything we can to have an open dialogue with you, and listen to any particular advice or requests you might have while on the adventure. We are always available to chat with via skype leading up to the program. We realize they are expensive, and that you might want to chat about it before financially embarking on it.
Can I choose the role I will play on a film, behind or in front of the camera?
You can most certainly tell us beforehand which particular roles you would like to play, and your expectations for the film and your position on it. We do not want you to be disappointed, so open dialogue is necessary before we meet up. Generally, we all share the duties, and each have our hand at a number of positons. On some programs, one films may go into production, while on other programs there may be a few, this is why we need to know early on how many people will be joining us. Usually Melanie C. wil direct or co-direct the films.
Can you guarantee that my film will be seen at festivals?
We can never guarantee anything, but we can practically "assure you" (just another theasaurus term for it!) that your film will be screened at, at least one festival. We cannot guarantee which festival however.
What are the living conditions?
Depending on the country, the housing and amenities will be different. You may be camping on some programs, while in other programs you could be in a fancy schmancy bed and breakfast or local homestay.
What ages are most of your barefeet adventurers? All ages. It doesn't matter, you are as young (or old) as you feel. We are all in this together, kid. The more diverse a group, the more we can learn from one another. Especially when filmmaking. In the real world, let me tell you something kid, Spielberg ain't no spring chicken, and Dakota Fanning ain't barely old enough to vote, yet they have made a few films together. That is the nature of a film-set, and the nature of art in motion. That being said, we will at some stage offer specific programs to krazy kollege kids and the fabulous and 50+ crowd.
Will I own the rights to the film/s produced?
Barefeet Films owns the rights to all the films produced on the Barefeet Adventures programs. However, this does not prevent you from using the film on your resume or showreel, or submitting it to festivals, competitions and film events, as long as we are kept in the know.
Will you be able to write me a recommendation, after I complete a program?
Yes, we will most certainly be able to write you a recommendation based on your work performance, learning skills and general interaction with cast and crew. We can tailor it to whatever your needs might be, but we will always be truthful.
If I have my own equipment, surfboard, skateboard etc., can I bring it?
You most certainly can. Please tell us beforehand, so we can decide with you whether we will use your equipment or ours. As for skateboards and surfboards, please let us know as well, so we can decide if you still want the free gifted skateboard and surfboard hire. using your own equipment, does not change the program costs unfortunately.
If I do not want to volunteer, make a film, or do the workshops within a program, is this possible?
It is highly recommended that you volunteer, for two reasons. Firstly, it will inspire you in your filmmaking or other artistic project by getting you more in touch with the local culture and people. Second of all, we are an ecotourism travel company, and we believe in giving back to the communities we travel to. Volunteering can be a lot more fun than you imagine, you can work with people the same age as you, you can teach them your skills, make a film with them, surf with them, the possibilities are endless. The program costs do not change if amendments are made. Now for the workshops, those are recommended to everyone, however they are not required if you are already a pro. However even if you are a pro it is recommended that you attend them so you can see how we work in comparison to you. PLus, we may be working with equipment you are not familiar with. As for not wanting to make a film. The retreat participants are not required to make a film, however all the other programs do recommend that you do something creative, if not making a film. This can be art, writing, photography, dance, and the list goes on. Just contact us, and we will work with you if you really truly want to make amendments to the program
What happens if I get injured/sick and have to go home early, do I get my money back?
Unfortunately we don't do any reimbursements, however if you get the travel insurance which we will recommend in your info pack, you will be reimbursed by your travel insurance if your claim is accompanied by a medical certificate, and proof of travel. So there really is nothing to lose. We recommend you getting your insurance before you make your deposit, in case injury or illness prevent you from going, and you will be able to make a claim for the deposit with your travel insurance crowd.
What if something severe happens (a natural disaster or crime) and the program is cut short, will I be reimbursed?
Unfortunately we don't do any reimbursements, however your travel insurance will cover you for such incidences.
Can I recommend someone as instructor? Or myself as instructor? I would like to work for you, how do I go about this?
Yes, most definitely. We like to hire people from the program country, or people who are especially skilled or have a name for themselves in their area of expertise. Please send you info through to us, through the TRAVEL 4 FREE page.
Are there age restrictions for any of the programs?
Do you cater to the 50+ crowd?
No there are NO age restrictions what-so-ever. Creativity carries no age. You are as young as you feel. The activities we partake in, are only as strenuous as you want them to be.
Must I have experience in film or anything in particular, before taking on a program?
No experience is necessary. As with working in the real world, you will work with people of all levels of experience. We give you training if you are a newbie, we have pro filmmakers on board and their knowledge and eperience is impressive. If we have a lareg number of recruits, we might divide them into 2-3 groups based on level. All films are quality assured, so all you pros out there, do not fret!
Can I arrive before or stay after my program dates? Will I be able to stay in the same accommodation? If I would like to stay in different accommodation to the one offered on the program is this possible?
Yes, this can be arranged. We will likely be able to get you a reduced rate, based on your participation in the program. You can stay in different accommodation, but this is generally not recommeded as the program is all about social activity and being a real team. This is not to say that you will have no privacy. Private rooms are always available.
How much luggage should I bring? What should I bring?What clothing should I bring? What are important things to remember before I travel?
Do not fret dear travelers! Once you have paid your program deposit, you will receive the program booklet with all the information you require. From what to pack, basic phrases to learn, local temperature estimates, and a comprehensive list of all other important travel info. Plus, we are here for you whenever you want to chat. See our contact page.
let me help you prepare. find your destiny based on your budget.
it doesn't just take money to travel. preparation is like cash.