The things people usually ask us before their first conversation with IKOU — grouped so you can find yours quickly.
General
What is IKOU Holidays?+
A travel experience studio, not a traditional agency. We design journeys around the emotion you're chasing — rest, celebration, reconnection — rather than just booking a destination.
What's the difference between IKOU Originals and IKOU Boutique?+
Originals are pure-access experiences you can't book elsewhere — village stays, tribal communities, places we've earned access to ourselves. Boutique is our list of personally vetted commercial properties — real stays we've slept in and would happily return to.
What is "The IKOU Way"?+
Our six-step process behind every journey: Listen, Create, Curate, Prepare, Experience, Remember. It's how we go from your first message to a trip that actually feels like you.
Where are you based, and where do you plan trips to?+
Our studio is in Bengaluru, India. We plan journeys across India and a growing list of international destinations — see Where We Go for the full list.
Planning & Booking
How do I start planning a trip?+
Fill out the enquiry form on our IKOU Studio page and tell us a little about who's travelling and why. We'll get back to you within 6 hours to schedule a discovery call.
How far in advance should I book?+
As early as you can, especially for Originals, since access is limited by nature. Exact timelines depend on the destination and season — we'll walk you through it on your discovery call.
When's the best time to travel?+
It depends entirely on where your story takes you. We factor seasonality — weather, crowds, festivals — into your specific itinerary during the Listen and Curate stages, rather than giving generic month-by-month advice.
Can you plan for families, honeymoons, or corporate offsites?+
Yes. Just tell us in the enquiry form — honeymoon, family trip, milestone celebration, corporate offsite, or anything else — and we tailor the pace and experiences accordingly.
On the Trip
What happens when I land?+
A free local SIM card and a basic welcome kit are waiting for you at the airport, along with recommendations for Indian food nearby if that's what you're craving.
Do I get a local guide?+
Yes, a free local guide is included as part of how we design our journeys — someone who actually knows the place, not just a script.
What support do I have while I'm travelling?+
Daily check-ins on how you're doing, morning and evening touchpoints, and unlimited help with photos and selfies along the way. We stay privacy-first, but we're never out of reach if you need us.
Are kids looked after too?+
Yes — from carrying strollers to the smaller everyday things that make travelling with children easier, it's built into the service, not an add-on.
Payments, Changes & Trust
How does payment work?+
Payment structure varies by trip and supplier. We'll walk you through exact terms clearly, in writing, before you confirm anything — no surprises.
What's your cancellation policy?+
This depends on the hotels, flights, and local operators involved in your specific trip, since their own terms vary. We'll share the exact policy for your itinerary before you book.
Do you arrange visas or travel insurance?+
We can guide and coordinate with specialists where needed, but we recommend arranging your own travel insurance directly for full coverage.
Is my personal information kept private?+
Yes — see our Privacy Policy for exactly what we collect through this site and how it's used.
How else can I reach you?+
Email hello@ikouholidays.com or call +91 974 127 1010. Our studio is in Bengaluru, India.
Holidays