TERMSANDCONDITIONS

Introduction

These Terms and Conditions ("Terms") govern your use of the website [www.themeadowguesthouse.co.za] and any bookings or services provided by The Meadow Guesthouse ("The Meadow," "we," "us," or "our"). By accessing our website, making a booking, or staying at The Meadow, you agree to be bound by these Terms, which form a legally binding agreement between you (the "Guest" or "you") and The Meadow. The Meadow is committed to complying with the Consumer Protection Act 68 of 2008 ("CPA") and other applicable South African laws. These Terms are drafted in plain language to ensure fairness, transparency, and reasonableness. If any provision is found to be unfair or unenforceable under the CPA or other laws, it will be severed, and the remaining Terms will remain in effect. We may update these Terms from time to time to reflect changes in our practices or legal requirements. We will notify you of significant changes by posting the updated Terms on our website and revising the "Last Updated" date above. Your continued use of our services after such changes constitutes acceptance of the updated Terms. If you do not agree to these Terms, please do not use our website or services.

Reservations and Bookings

• The Meadow accommodates a maximum of 8 guests and is rented as a whole unit only (no single-room bookings).
• Bookings are made through our website using the Inn Style booking system. All bookings are subject to availability and confirmation.
• Only booked and registered guests may stay overnight. Additional guests must be approved in advance and may incur extra charges.
• Rates are quoted in South African Rand (ZAR) and may change without prior notice. However, once a booking is confirmed, the agreed rate will be honored.
• A reservation is only considered confirmed upon receipt of the required deposit (see Payments section below).
• We reserve the right to refuse or cancel bookings at our discretion, subject to CPA requirements, and will provide a full refund in such cases unless due to your breach of these Terms.

Under Section 17 of the CPA, you have the right to cancel any advance reservation or booking, subject to reasonable cancellation charges as outlined in our Cancellations & Refunds section.

Payments and Deposits

• A 50% deposit is required to secure your booking.
• The remaining balance is payable no later than 7 days before arrival, unless otherwise arranged in writing.
• Proof of payment should be emailed to info@themeadowguesthouse.co.za.
• Payments can be made via bank transfer, credit card (through our booking system), or other methods as specified.
• All bank charges or transaction fees incurred by The Meadow will be for your account.
• Failure to pay the balance on time may result in cancellation of your booking, with retention of the deposit as a reasonable cancellation fee, in line with CPA guidelines.

Cancellations & Refunds

Cancellations must be made in writing via email to info@themeadowguesthouse.co.za. Our cancellation policy is as follows:

• 30 days or more before arrival: Full refund of the deposit.
• 15–29 days before arrival: 50% of the deposit refunded.
• 14 days or less before arrival: Deposit is non-refundable.
• No-shows or early departures: No refund of any payments made.

These charges are intended to be reasonable and cover our administrative costs and potential loss of revenue, as permitted under the CPA. We may, at our discretion, offer refunds or rescheduling in exceptional circumstances. In addition to our policy, you retain your rights under Section 17 of the CPA to cancel bookings, subject to fair and reasonable penalties. Suppliers are entitled to request reasonable advance deposits and charge reasonable cancellation fees.

Check-in & Check-out

• Check-in time: From 14:00 (2:00 PM).
• Check-out time: By 11:00 (11:00 AM).
• Alternative times may be arranged on request, subject to availability and possible additional fees.
• Late check-out without prior approval may incur charges equivalent to one night's stay.

Accommodation Rules

To ensure a pleasant stay for all, guests must adhere to the following house rules:

• Guests: Only registered guests are permitted. The property accommodates a maximum of 8 guests.
• Smoking Policy: Smoking is strictly prohibited inside the house. Designated outdoor areas may be used, but guests must dispose of waste responsibly.
• Pets: Pets are not allowed, unless by prior written consent from The Meadow. If approved, additional cleaning fees may apply.
• Respect for Property: Guests are required to respect the property, furnishings, and the quiet atmosphere of the farm. Excessive noise, parties, or disruptive behavior is not permitted.
• Failure to comply with these rules may result in immediate removal from the property without refund, and you may be liable for any damages or additional costs incurred.

We promote responsible tourism and ask guests to conserve water and electricity, in line with South African environmental guidelines.

Responsibility & Liability

• Stays at The Meadow are at guests’ own risk. The owners and management will not be held responsible for any injury, illness, loss, theft, or damage to personal belongings, vehicles, or property.
• Parents and guardians are fully responsible for supervising children at all times, including around any water features, animals, or farm areas.
• Any breakages, damage, or loss to the property caused by guests will be charged to the guest at replacement cost, plus any administrative fees.
• We are not liable for circumstances beyond our control, including but not limited to weather conditions, road closures, power outages, water shortages, natural disasters, or force majeure events.
• Guests agree to indemnify The Meadow against any claims arising from their stay, except where negligence on our part is proven.
• While we take reasonable precautions, we recommend guests secure their valuables and obtain appropriate insurance.

These limitations are subject to the CPA's provisions on liability, which prohibit exemptions for gross negligence, willful misconduct, or certain statutory liabilities.

General Provisions

• Governing Law: These Terms are governed by the laws of the Republic of South Africa. Any disputes will be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the South African courts.
• Entire Agreement: These Terms, together with our Privacy Policy and any booking confirmation, constitute the entire agreement between you and The Meadow.

By booking or staying with us, you confirm that you have read, understood, and agree to these Terms and Conditions.