FAQ for Providers

Answers to common questions for current and future Service Providers on Holistic Travel Plan (HTP).

1. What does it cost to list my service?

HTP offers two pricing models, both beginning with a 4-month free trial:

📆 First 4 Months – Free Access
All new providers receive 4 months of free access — no subscription fees and no commissions. This allows you to onboard, list services, and receive bookings without financial risk.

💳 After Free Trial – Two Options:

1. Flat-Rate Subscription (billed annually)
   
   • €5/month (€60/year total)
   • No commission on bookings
   • Best for providers with consistent bookings or who prefer predictable costs.

1. Commission-Only Model

1. • 8.5% per confirmed booking
   • No monthly fee
   • Ideal if you’re just starting or want to pay only when you earn.

You can switch between models at the end of each billing cycle.

2. How does pricing evolve over time?

Starting from Year 2, subscription pricing will adapt based on your average monthly income from the previous year on the platform:

Flat-Rate Subscription (Year 2 Tiers):

• €5/month if your average monthly revenue last year was up to €129
• €9.90/month for €130–€189 average monthly revenue
• €12.50/month if your average monthly revenue exceeded €190

This tiered structure ensures fairness — as your income grows, your contribution adjusts.

Commission-only providers will continue at 8.5% per booking unless they opt into the flat-rate model.

HTP will notify you of your earnings tier annually and automatically update your subscription settings.

3. Do I need a website to use HTP?

No. Your profile on HTP can act as your digital presence. You’ll get a personalized profile with booking and messaging tools.

4. How do I improve visibility on the platform?

• Complete your profile fully, including photos, values, and sustainability practices
• Keep your availability up to date
• Respond quickly to messages and reviews
• Enable real-time calendar sync
• Add toxin-free and regenerative features to your listings

5. Can I list more than one service?

Yes. You can list multiple services across any of the 10 categories. Each one is managed from your provider dashboard.

6. Will HTP help promote my services?

Yes. Your listing may appear in:

• Newsletters and featured categories
• Conscious travel themes and seasonal spotlights
• AI-powered suggestions to clients (when available)

7. Can I update my service after it’s published?

Yes. You can change text, pricing, images, availability, and sustainability indicators anytime from your dashboard.

8. What if I need help onboarding?

We’re here for you. Contact us at providers@holistictravelplan.pt or visit the Help Center for tutorials and support.

9. Is there a custom plan for NGOs, cooperatives, or seasonal providers?

Yes. HTP can evaluate tailored pricing for providers with unique needs. Email providers@holistictravelplan.pt to discuss options.

10. How does the booking process work for providers?

When a traveler books your service:

• You receive a notification via email and on your dashboard.
• You can accept or reject the booking (if your service is set to manual confirmation).
• Once confirmed, you’ll see booking details and can message the client directly.
• Payment is processed through HTP and transferred to your account based on our payout schedule.

11. When do I receive payouts?

Payouts are made 3–7 days after the service has been completed, to ensure quality and allow time for potential disputes or feedback. Providers can choose to receive payouts via bank transfer or other available options in their region.

12. What happens if I cancel a booking?

Frequent cancellations harm user trust and may lead to reduced visibility or temporary suspension. If cancellation is unavoidable:

• Inform the client as early as possible.
• HTP will refund the client fully, including platform fees.
• Our AI assistant may suggest alternatives to the client (when available).

13. Are there any forbidden practices on HTP?

Yes. Providers must:

• Not accept bookings outside the platform to bypass fees.
• Not misrepresent services or sustainability claims.
• Not copy content from other providers without permission.
  Violation of these terms may lead to suspension or removal.

14. Can I request help with writing or editing my listings?

Yes. HTP offers optional onboarding assistance, including:

• Editing your service descriptions
• Optimizing your profile text for visibility
• Uploading photos or videos
  Email providers@holistictravelplan.pt to request this support.

15. Will I get reviews from clients?

Yes. Clients are invited to leave reviews after each booking. Reviews improve your credibility and help future clients feel confident about your service. Providers can also respond to reviews directly.

16. Are there any content guidelines I must follow?

Yes. All content (text, images, videos) you upload must reflect HTP’s ethical and moral values. This includes:

• Respecting cultural diversity, gender, and spiritual beliefs
• Avoiding explicit, offensive, misleading, or exploitative content
• Ensuring truthfulness in your descriptions and claims (especially about sustainability or health)
• Not infringing on copyrights or using unauthorized media

HTP reserves the right to review and remove any content that violates these standards.

17. Can I pause my listings temporarily?

Yes. If you’re going on retreat, traveling, or taking a break, you can pause your listings from your dashboard. This keeps your profile active but hides your services from search results until you reactivate them.

18. Can I offer services only during specific seasons?

Absolutely. You can define availability for specific months or dates in your calendar. HTP supports seasonal providers like surf schools, harvest experiences, or nomadic retreats.

19. Is there a minimum commitment to stay on HTP?

No. You’re free to join and leave at any time. However, consistent availability and engagement are key to building client trust and improving your visibility on the platform.

20. What types of services can I list?

You can list services in any of the 10 main categories: Accommodations, Food, Activities, Beauty, Therapies, Retreats, Teacher Trainings, Transportation, Events, and Local Markets. Each category supports regenerative, toxin-free, and holistic practices.

21. Can I manage multiple locations or branches?

Yes. If you offer services in multiple locations, you can either create separate listings or request a multi-location provider setup. Contact us at providers@holistictravelplan.pt for guidance.

22. Do I need insurance?

HTP strongly recommends that providers have liability insurance, especially for physical activities, therapies, or retreats. In some countries or categories, proof of insurance may be legally required.

23. How are services verified?

HTP does not perform physical audits, but we do review every listing for coherence with our sustainability and ethics guidelines. Users can flag suspicious listings, and we reserve the right to request documents or proof of claims (e.g., certifications or testimonials).

24. Can I collaborate with other providers?

Yes! We encourage partnerships. For example, a retreat leader can collaborate with a local chef or yoga teacher. You can mention collaborators in your listing or co-list experiences as long as all parties are registered.

25. Can I share special offers or discounts?

Yes. You can create discount codes or special offers during onboarding or from your provider dashboard. These may also be featured in newsletters or AI suggestions (when live).

26. What kinds of sustainability practices should I highlight?

You can highlight toxin-free cleaning products, use of renewable energy, local sourcing, waste reduction, water conservation, support for biodiversity, permaculture elements, or circular economy practices. The more transparent and authentic you are, the better you’ll connect with conscious travelers.

27. Will I be able to track my performance on the platform?

Yes. HTP will offer an analytics dashboard (in development) showing views, bookings, client engagement, and AI-powered suggestions for improvement. You’ll be able to optimize your listing and strategy over time.

28. Can I upload videos to promote my services?

Yes. Video uploads are encouraged and can greatly increase client trust. You can introduce your service, share a virtual tour, or explain your sustainability values. We recommend natural, honest footage that reflects your offering authentically.

29. Can I offer free or donation-based services?

Yes. If your project is based on community exchange, reciprocity, or donation-based models, you can set pricing accordingly. Just be sure to explain your philosophy clearly in your listing so clients understand what to expect.

30. How do taxes work for earnings on HTP?

You are responsible for declaring your income according to your country’s tax laws. HTP may provide annual summaries to help with reporting. We recommend consulting a local accountant if you’re unsure of your obligations.

31. Can I list a service even if I’m just starting?

Yes. As long as your offering aligns with HTP values and you’re ready to receive clients, we welcome emerging projects. You don’t need to be a large company or have years of experience — heart-centered, ethical services are at the core of our platform.

32. What if a client requests something outside my scope?

You’re always free to say no. HTP supports providers in setting clear boundaries and only offering services they feel comfortable with. You may refer the client to another provider if appropriate.

33. Will HTP help me tell my story?

Yes. We encourage you to share your journey, values, and local impact through your profile. In the future, we’ll offer storytelling templates, video interviews, and blog features to elevate your visibility and authenticity.

34. Can I co-host experiences with other HTP providers?

Yes. Co-hosting is welcome and even encouraged — especially if it enhances the guest experience. You can list joint events or cross-promote each other’s services through your profile and network.

35. Are there rules around offering spiritual or transformative practices?

Yes. If your service involves altered states (e.g., breathwork, fasting, plant medicine, energy healing), you must clearly communicate risks, contraindications, and boundaries. HTP requires ethical facilitation and informed consent to protect both clients and practitioners.

36. Can I list services that are only available on certain dates?

Yes. You can define specific availability for events, workshops, or seasonal offerings. Use your dashboard to set custom dates and ensure clients see only what’s bookable.

37. Do I need any legal documents to register?

Not necessarily. For most categories, HTP asks for a Declaration of Responsibility affirming that your service complies with local regulations. In some cases (e.g., accommodations in Portugal), legal registration like an RNAL number is required.

38. What categories can I publish in?

HTP currently supports 10 categories: Accommodations, Food, Therapies, Retreats, Beauty & Wellness, Transportation, Activities, Teacher Trainings, Local Markets, and Events. You may list services in one or more if relevant.

39. Can I pause my listings if I go on a break?

Yes. You can unpublish a service or mark it as unavailable temporarily. This allows you to take holidays or breaks without needing to delete your profile.

40. Can locals book my services?

Absolutely. HTP is not only for international travelers — local residents can also use the platform to discover services near them. Be sure to include this in your service description if your offering is particularly community-oriented.

41. Will there be a mobile app for providers?

HTP is fully mobile-responsive, and a dedicated app is planned in the future. In the meantime, you can manage everything from your phone browser, including bookings, messages, and profile edits.

42. Can I respond to client reviews?

Yes. You can publicly respond to client reviews, adding context or thanking them. This helps build trust and shows prospective clients that you’re engaged and professional.

43. How do I know if my service is a good fit for HTP?

If your offering supports well-being, regeneration, inclusivity, and respect for culture and nature — it’s likely a great fit. If you’re unsure, contact us at providers@holistictravelplan.pt and we’ll help you assess alignment.

44. What support is offered for digital accessibility?

HTP is working to meet high accessibility standards. In the future, tools will help you indicate whether your service supports people with limited mobility, neurodiversity, or other needs — making your listings more inclusive.

45. Can I offer bundle packages or experiences?

Yes. You can combine services — like lodging + food + activity — into a single offering. Just be sure to describe clearly what’s included, the total price, and how clients should prepare.

46. What ethical standards are expected from providers?

HTP is built on integrity, respect, and conscious practices. As a provider, you are expected to:

• Treat clients and collaborators with kindness, honesty, and respect
• Provide accurate and transparent descriptions of your services
• Respect local traditions, ecosystems, and cultural boundaries
• Never discriminate based on gender, race, nationality, sexual orientation, ability, or religion
• Operate in alignment with HTP’s 5 Holistic Travel Principles

47. Are there any types of services not allowed on HTP?

Yes. Services that involve unethical behavior, cultural exploitation, unsafe health claims, or any form of abuse or discrimination are strictly forbidden. HTP may remove listings and suspend accounts that violate these guidelines.

48. Can I post spiritual or ancestral practices?

Yes — as long as they are offered with authenticity, respect, and informed consent. Misusing sacred traditions, making unverifiable spiritual claims, or imitating Indigenous practices without permission is not allowed.

49. What if a client behaves unethically?

HTP has a reporting system for both providers and clients. If someone acts inappropriately, you can report them to the platform. If needed, HTP may investigate and take action, including banning users who do not align with platform values.

50. Can I promote political or religious beliefs in my listing?

You may share your values if relevant to the experience, but aggressive promotion, conversion attempts, or exclusionary language is not allowed. Listings must remain inclusive, respectful, and accessible to diverse audiences.

51. How does HTP handle sensitive topics like nudity or intimacy?

Offerings such as nude yoga or tantra must be clearly described, respectfully presented, and aligned with ethical standards of safety and consent. Misleading or exploitative presentations will not be tolerated.

52. Are providers responsible for informed consent?

Yes. If your service involves physical, emotional, or psychological intensity (e.g., fasting, breathwork, rituals), you must clearly inform clients of potential risks, ask for consent, and respect boundaries at all times.

53. What happens if I violate HTP’s ethical policy?

HTP may warn, suspend, or permanently remove any provider who violates core ethical standards. Repeat or serious violations (e.g., abuse, manipulation, discrimination) will lead to immediate removal and may be reported to authorities if necessary.

54. What does “Cultural Empowerment” mean on HTP?

Cultural Empowerment means uplifting local voices, honoring traditional knowledge, and supporting place-based economies. HTP encourages providers to share authentic cultural experiences that are community-led, respectful, and regenerative.

55. Can I offer cultural experiences even if I’m not a local?

Only if you are deeply connected with the local community and offer the experience in partnership with locals. You must ensure that the knowledge shared is not being appropriated or misrepresented. Transparency about your role is essential.

56. Are there guidelines for offering Indigenous or traditional knowledge?

Yes. You should:

• Have direct permission or collaboration with knowledge keepers
• Avoid imitating or selling sacred traditions without involvement of the community
• Clearly explain the origins and context of the practices you are offering
• Give credit and, when appropriate, share benefits with the local community

57. How can I show that my service empowers local communities?

In your profile or service page, share:

• How locals are involved or benefit from the experience
• Whether your offering supports local artisans, guides, farmers, or storytellers
• What steps you take to protect traditions and avoid commodification
• Any partnerships with cooperatives, elders, or local NGOs

58. Can I list language, dance, or cooking classes?

Yes — if these offerings:

• Come from a place of cultural respect and not exoticization
• Are led by locals or in collaboration with them
• Encourage connection and learning, not performance or stereotype
• Support cultural preservation and pride

59. Does HTP verify cultural credibility?

HTP relies on trust, transparency, and community feedback. However, the platform may request clarifications if a listing seems inappropriate or misleading, especially regarding sacred or Indigenous practices.

60. Why is cultural empowerment part of HTP’s values?

Because true regeneration includes social and cultural regeneration. By empowering communities, honoring traditions, and giving voice to those often excluded from mainstream tourism, HTP helps travel become a healing force — not just for nature, but for people and their stories.

61. What does “toxin-free” mean on HTP?

“Toxin-free” refers to spaces, products, and services that avoid harmful chemicals, pollutants, synthetic fragrances, pesticides, heavy metals, endocrine disruptors, and artificial additives. It reflects a commitment to health, safety, and ecological integrity.

62. What kinds of services should be toxin-free?

Any service can include toxin-free elements — especially:

• Accommodations (no mold, VOC-free paints, natural bedding, etc.)
• Food services (organic, local, pesticide-free)
• Beauty & therapy offerings (natural oils, herbal treatments, no synthetic chemicals)
• Activities & retreats (safe environments, non-toxic cleaning, eco-friendly gear)

63. How do I show my service is toxin-free?

Use your listing to explain your practices, such as:

• Using certified organic or natural products
• Avoiding artificial fragrances and chemical cleaners
• Choosing local, low-impact ingredients or materials
• Maintaining clean air and mold-free spaces
• Providing allergen-conscious menus

You can also upload images or optional certificates to reinforce credibility.

64. Is certification required to list as toxin-free?

No. Certification is optional — but encouraged when available. Transparency is key: clearly describe what makes your space or service toxin-free, and avoid exaggerated claims. HTP will offer a toxin-free badge in the future to verified listings.

65. Can I still list if I’m working toward becoming toxin-free?

Absolutely. You can explain your current efforts, such as:

• Phasing out harmful products
• Seeking local suppliers or organic farms
• Renovating spaces to meet toxin-free standards
  HTP supports progress and transparency, not perfection.

66. What are examples of misleading toxin-free claims?

Avoid stating you are “toxin-free” if:

• You use chemical air fresheners or synthetic oils
• Your space has mold or uses conventional pesticides
• You serve food with artificial additives without disclosure
• You make vague claims without specific examples

HTP may request edits or remove listings that make unsubstantiated claims.

67. Why does toxin-free matter for travelers?

Because conscious travelers often have sensitivities, health concerns, or ethical reasons to avoid toxins. Toxin-free services promote wellness, deepen trust, and differentiate you as a truly holistic provider. It’s not a trend — it’s a lifestyle commitment.

68. What does “slow travel” mean on HTP?

Slow travel emphasizes quality over quantity. It invites travelers to stay longer in one place, build relationships with locals, and move mindfully through destinations — minimizing stress, maximizing meaning, and reducing environmental impact.

69. How can my service support slow travel?

You can:

• Encourage longer stays with discounted weekly/monthly rates
• Offer immersive activities rooted in local culture or nature
• Create quiet, restorative spaces for rest and reflection
• Provide tips for exploring nearby on foot, bike, or public transport
• Promote off-season stays to reduce overtourism

70. Do I need to offer transportation to align with slow travel?

Not necessarily — but you can support it by:

• Highlighting how to reach you by train, bus, or bicycle
• Providing shuttle or shared transport from central hubs
• Suggesting low-emission options like carpooling or walking trails

If you do offer transport, eco-friendly vehicles or shared rides are a plus.

71. How does slow travel benefit the planet?

By:

• Reducing transport emissions
• Lowering pressure on local resources
• Supporting smaller, community-based businesses
• Helping to preserve natural and cultural heritage

It’s a key step toward regenerative, not extractive, tourism.

72. What’s the difference between low-impact and sustainable?

“Sustainable” means maintaining balance over time. “Low-impact” is about minimizing harm — including waste, noise, energy use, and carbon emissions. All low-impact efforts contribute to overall sustainability, especially in travel.

73. Can I highlight my slow/low-impact features on my listing?

Yes. You’ll be able to:

• Select “slow travel” and “low-impact” as features during onboarding
• Describe how you reduce energy, water, and waste
• Upload photos or videos that show your practices in action
• Be featured in AI-curated journeys for conscious travelers (when live)

74. What if I’m not fully slow or low-impact yet?

No problem. Start by:

• Offering suggestions for local walks, workshops, or stays
• Reducing single-use items or plastic packaging
• Collaborating with nearby providers to reduce client travel
• Sharing your commitment openly on your listing

HTP values honesty and progress — not perfection.

75. What does “regenerative” mean on HTP?

Regenerative tourism goes beyond sustainability — it actively contributes to healing ecosystems, strengthening communities, and creating a positive legacy. It’s about leaving a place better than you found it, while supporting the land and the people who live there.

76. How can my service be considered regenerative?

You don’t need to be perfect — but you can start by:

• Using permaculture or agroecology principles
• Rewilding, planting trees, or supporting biodiversity
• Offering education around local ecosystems
• Sourcing food, materials, or services locally and ethically
• Partnering with community or conservation projects

77. What types of services are most aligned with regeneration?

Any service that:

• Restores soil, water, or air quality
• Preserves cultural or ancestral knowledge
• Promotes circular, community-based economies
• Encourages nature connection and stewardship
• Avoids extractive, mass-tourism models

This could be a regenerative farm stay, a conscious hike, a community food project, or even a retreat center designed with ecological intelligence.

78. Can I still list my service if it’s not fully regenerative?

Yes. HTP supports providers at every stage of the journey. Just be transparent — and share what you’re doing or planning to do. There’s space for everyone who acts with intention, honesty, and care.

79. How do I describe regenerative features on my listing?

During onboarding, you’ll be able to:

• Select regenerative practices you follow
• Upload relevant photos or certifications
• Share your story and values in the service description
• Tag local partners or community projects you support

HTP also plans to integrate a badge system to recognize regenerative impact.

80. Are there tools to help me become more regenerative?

Yes. The platform will:

• Provide inspiration and case studies from other providers
• Offer optional educational content and onboarding tips
• Connect you with aligned professionals or networks
• Use AI (when active) to suggest ways to improve your ecological and social footprint

81. Why does regeneration matter in tourism?

Because tourism can either degrade or restore. When done well, it:

• Heals degraded landscapes and ecosystems
• Brings revenue to local guardians of culture and nature
• Fosters understanding and reciprocity between visitors and locals
• Empowers providers to live with purpose and alignment

Regenerative tourism is a path toward climate resilience and deeper human connection.