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Tourism Law

Are waivers signed by tourists legally binding in Georgia?

Waivers of liability are valid but do not absolve the company from liability for gross negligence or intentional misconduct. They primarily serve to confirm the tourist was informed of inherent risks.

What if a tourist damages hotel property?

Under the Civil Code, the person causing damage is liable to compensate for it. Hotels should have clear policies and possibly take security deposits to mitigate this risk.

Do I need a permit for off-road tours?

While general off-road driving doesn't need a permit, driving in Protected Areas (National Parks) requires specific permission and adherence to designated routes. Violations result in fines.

Can I use drone footage for my tourism ads?

Yes, but you must comply with civil aviation rules regarding drone flights (avoiding airports, privacy violations) and respect copyright if using footage created by others.

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Tourism Law: Comprehensive Legal Services for the Tourism Sector

Tourism Law is a multidisciplinary field regulating relationships between tourists, service providers (agents, hotels, carriers), and the state. In Georgia, as a tourism-oriented country, this field is rapidly developing, and legislative regulations are becoming more sophisticated. Tourism law specialists serve both business entities (tour operators, resorts, adventure tourism companies) and individual tourists. Legal support covers everything from safety standard compliance to resolving international disputes. Knowledge of current legislation in the tourism sector is essential for business sustainability and gaining client trust.

What Does This Service Cover?

Specialists on Legal.ge offer full legal services for the tourism industry:

  • Adventure Tourism Regulations: Legal assurance for high-risk activities (rafting, paragliding, mountain tours), drafting safety instructions, and risk insurance.
  • International Partnerships: Signing cooperation agreements with foreign tourism companies and resolving conflict of laws issues between jurisdictions.
  • Investment Projects in Tourism: Legal accompaniment for the construction of tourism infrastructure (hotels, entertainment complexes) and land status changes.
  • Dispute Resolution: Resolving disputes between tourists and companies (poor service, injuries, property damage) in court and arbitration.
  • Consumer Protection: Ensuring company policy compliance with consumer rights protection legislation.
  • Agrotourism and Wine Tourism: Specific regulations for rural tourism development, legal support for grant acquisition.

Common Situations When You Need a Lawyer

In the tourism sector, lawyer assistance is often decisive:

  • Injury During Extreme Tour: A tourist was injured while rafting and demands compensation. The company needs to prove that all safety norms were followed and the tourist was warned about risks.
  • Dispute with Airline: A group tour failed due to flight cancellation, and the tour operator tries to recover damages from the airline.
  • Investment in Resort: A foreign investor plans to build a hotel at a ski resort and needs to obtain permits near protected areas.
  • Complaint from Tourist: A tourist applied to the Consumer Rights Protection Agency because they were placed in a low-class hotel instead of the promised 5-star one.
  • Guide Regulations: The company wants to hire foreign guides and needs to resolve labor and migration issues.

Georgian Legal Framework

The fundamental act of the sector is the Law of Georgia on Tourism. Additionally, the Civil Code of Georgia (law of obligations), the Law of Georgia on the System of Protected Areas (for eco-tourism), and the Air Code of Georgia (for air transport) are important. Regarding adventure tourism, government technical regulations on the safety of specific activities apply. Relations with consumers are regulated by the Law of Georgia on Protection of Consumer Rights.

Process: How Collaboration with a Specialist Works

Working with a tourism law specialist involves:

  1. Legal Audit: Checking the company's activities, contracts, and safety protocols.
  2. Preventive Measures: Preparing liability waiver documents and informed consent forms.
  3. Negotiations: Conducting negotiations with partners and insurance companies to protect client interests.
  4. Representation: Defending interests in court, arbitration, or administrative bodies (e.g., Tourism Administration).
  5. Training: Training employees on legal issues and rules of conduct in crisis situations.

Why Choose Legal.ge?

Legal.ge is the only platform gathering tourism law experts. They understand the specifics of the industry well — be it eco-tourism, MICE tourism, or adventure tours. Our specialists will help you legally structure your business so you can concentrate on creating unforgettable impressions for your guests. Find a trusted lawyer on Legal.ge today.

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Specialists for this service

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