Terms and Conditions

1. General Provisions

1.1 Acceptance of Terms

By completing a reservation, proceeding with the check-in process, and/or staying at any property operated by Vela Blu Ltd, the Guest confirms that they have read, understood, and accepted these Terms and Conditions (hereinafter referred to as the “Terms”) in their entirety. These Terms are binding for all registered Guests included in the booking.

 

1.2 Scope and Applicability

These Terms govern the contractual relationship between the Guest and Vela Blu Ltd (Company Registration No. [INSERT], hereinafter referred to as the “Host”, “we”, “us”, or “our”), operating the following properties in Malta:

• Vela Blu Boutique Suites – [Address], Gzira, Malta
• Vela Blu The Lyric – [Address], Sliema, Malta

These Terms apply to all reservations made through any channel, including but not limited to Booking.com, Airbnb, our website, or direct communication.

 

1.3 Definitions

• “Guest” means the person who makes the reservation and/or any person staying at the Property during the reserved period.
• “Property” means the specific accommodation unit reserved by the Guest at either Vela Blu Boutique Suites or Vela Blu The Lyric.
• “Reservation” means a confirmed booking for a specified period at one of our Properties.
• “Channel” means the platform or method through which the reservation was made (Booking.com, Airbnb, direct website, email, or other).

 

1.4 Eligibility

The Guest must be at least 18 years of age to make a reservation. By booking, the Guest confirms they meet this requirement and accept full responsibility for all members of their party.

 

2. Use of the Property

2.1 Permitted Use

The Property may be used exclusively for short-term accommodation purposes. Any commercial use, events, parties, or inappropriate activities are strictly forbidden unless explicitly authorised in writing by the Host.

 

2.2 Registered Guests Only

Only Guests whose names are included in the confirmed reservation are permitted to access and stay at the Property. The presence of unregistered persons overnight is not permitted. Subletting or transferring the reservation to third parties is strictly prohibited.

 

2.3 Maximum Occupancy

The number of persons present in the Property at any time must not exceed the maximum occupancy stated in the reservation confirmation. Violation of this rule constitutes grounds for immediate termination of the stay without refund.

 

3. Reservations and Payments

3.1 Booking Confirmation

A reservation is considered confirmed only upon receipt of a valid booking confirmation from the respective Channel or directly from the Host, together with any required payment or pre-authorisation.

 

3.2 Cancellation Policy

The applicable cancellation policy depends on the booking Channel:

• Third-party platforms (Booking.com, Airbnb, etc.): The cancellation policy displayed at the time of booking on the respective platform shall apply. Cancellations must be processed through the original booking platform.
• Direct bookings (website, email, or other direct channels): The cancellation terms specified at the time of reservation confirmation shall apply. These terms are communicated to the Guest prior to or at the moment of booking confirmation.

In all cases, the Host reserves the right to charge a cancellation fee in accordance with the applicable policy. No-shows will be charged the full amount of the reservation unless otherwise specified.

 

3.3 Payment Methods

We accept the following payment methods:

• Credit or debit card (processed through the booking Channel or directly)
• Bank transfer (where applicable)
• Cash payments in exceptional circumstances only, at the Host’s sole discretion

All prices are quoted in Euros (€) and include applicable taxes unless otherwise stated.

 

3.4 Additional Charges

The Guest shall be responsible for any additional charges incurred during the stay, including but not limited to: early check-in or late check-out fees, penalty charges for rule violations, additional cleaning fees, damage to the Property, and any costs arising from a breach of these Terms.

 

4. Check-in and Check-out

4.1 Check-in and Check-out Times

Check-in and check-out times vary by property:

• Vela Blu Boutique Suites: Check-out by 11:00 – Check-in from 15:00
• Vela Blu The Lyric: Check-out by 10:00 – Check-in from 15:00

The Guest must communicate their estimated arrival time in advance. The Host will provide check-in instructions and access details prior to arrival via the designated communication channel.

 

4.2 Early Check-in and Late Check-out

Early check-in and late check-out are subject to availability and may incur additional charges. Requests must be made in advance through the official communication channel. The Host reserves the right to decline such requests based on operational requirements.

 

4.3 Unauthorised Late Check-out

Check-out times must be strictly respected. Unauthorised late check-out may result in additional charges, particularly where it interferes with cleaning operations or the arrival of incoming Guests. The Host reserves the right to charge up to one additional night’s rate for significantly late departures.

 

4.4 Identification

Upon check-in, all Guests are required to present a valid government-issued photo identification document (passport, national ID card, or driving licence). This requirement is mandated by Maltese law for all accommodation providers.

 

4.5 Key and Access

The Guest is responsible for the safekeeping of all keys, access cards, or access codes provided. Loss or damage to access devices may result in a replacement charge. Keys and access devices must be returned at check-out.

 

5. House Rules

5.1 General Conduct

Guests are expected to maintain a respectful and considerate attitude towards other guests, neighbours, and staff at all times. The Properties are located in residential areas, and Guests must respect the quiet enjoyment of all residents.

 

5.2 Smoking Policy

Smoking (including electronic cigarettes and vaporisers) is strictly prohibited inside all rooms and indoor areas of the Properties. Smoking is only permitted in designated outdoor areas where applicable.

 

If smoking is detected inside a room or indoor area, the Guest agrees to pay a penalty of €250.00 to cover the costs of deep cleaning, deodorisation, and potential damage to furnishings.

 

5.3 Noise and Disturbance

In accordance with Maltese law and in respect of neighbouring residents, Guests must observe quiet hours between 23:00 and 07:00. Guests must maintain appropriate behaviour at all times, especially during nighttime hours.

If a Guest causes noise or disturbance that affects other guests or neighbours during nighttime hours, a penalty of €150.00 will be applied. Serious or repeated disturbances may result in immediate termination of the stay without refund.

 

5.4 Pets

Pets and animals of any kind are not permitted at any of our Properties. Service animals may be accommodated upon prior written approval from the Host, subject to applicable law.

 

5.5 Parties and Events

Parties, events, gatherings, and any form of entertainment that may cause disturbance are strictly prohibited at all Properties.

 

5.6 Cleaning and Waste

Guests are expected to maintain a reasonable level of cleanliness throughout their stay. This includes proper disposal of waste in the designated bins, reasonable tidiness of shared and private spaces, and responsible use of kitchen facilities where provided.

Excessive mess, improper disposal of waste, or leaving the room, kitchen, or common areas in unacceptable conditions may result in an additional cleaning fee charged to the Guest.

 

5.7 Prohibited Activities

The following activities are strictly prohibited at all Properties:

• Use of the Property for any commercial or illegal purpose
• Use of candles, incense, or any open flame
• Tampering with fire safety equipment, security devices, or structural elements
• Removal of any furnishings, equipment, or items from the Property
• Any activity that may endanger the safety of Guests, staff, or the building

 

6. Damage Protection and Security Guarantee

6.1 Guest Responsibility for Damage

The Guest is fully responsible for any damage caused to the room, furniture, equipment, fixtures, or any other part of the Property during their stay. Any damage will be charged according to the actual repair or replacement cost, including labour and administrative costs where applicable.

 

6.2 Obligation to Provide a Security Guarantee (Vela Blu The Lyric)

At Vela Blu The Lyric, access to the Property is conditional upon the Guest providing a security guarantee. The Guest must choose one of the following options:

6.3 Option A – Damage Waiver (Non-Refundable Service Fee)

The Guest may opt to pay a non-refundable Service Fee of €25.00 (the “Damage Waiver”). By selecting this option, the Host waives the right to seek compensation from the Guest for accidental and unintentional damage to the Property or its furnishings, up to a maximum amount of €500.00. The Service Fee constitutes consideration for this waiver and for the administrative management of the service.

The Damage Waiver entitles the Guest to a Fast Check-out procedure, whereby the Guest may vacate the Property without waiting for an inspection by the Host’s staff. The Host shall conduct an inspection within 4 hours of departure and in any event before the arrival of the next Guest.

 

6.4 Option B – Refundable Security Deposit

Alternatively, the Guest may opt to provide a refundable security deposit of €500.00, pre-authorised on the Guest’s credit or debit card. The deposit shall be released within seven (7) calendar days following the Host’s post-departure inspection, provided no damage or breach of these Terms is identified. The release shall be processed on the same card on which the pre-authorisation was made.

 

6.5 Exclusions from Damage Waiver Coverage

The Damage Waiver (Option A) does not cover and the Guest remains fully liable for:

• Damage exceeding the €500.00 threshold (the Guest is liable for the excess amount)
• Damage caused intentionally (wilful misconduct) or through gross negligence
• Theft or removal of objects, furnishings, or equipment
• Violations of specific House Rules, including: smoking indoors, unauthorised pets, or the need for extraordinary cleaning due to negligence
• Damage to linen and textiles: Permanent damage to bed linen, towels, and other textiles caused by indelible stains (makeup, hair dye, ink, or similar substances) or improper use is excluded from the Waiver. Such costs shall be charged in accordance with the replacement price list available at the Property, or deducted from the security deposit (Option B)

 

6.6 Damage Protection at Vela Blu Boutique Suites

Vela Blu Boutique Suites operates without a Damage Waiver or security deposit system. The Guest is directly and fully responsible for any damage caused during the stay. The Guest expressly authorises the Host to charge the credit or debit card on file for any repair or replacement costs arising from damage caused by the Guest.

 

6.7 Authorisation for Additional Charges

By accepting these Terms, the Guest expressly authorises the Host to retain the credit or debit card details provided at the time of booking or check-in, and to charge said card for any amounts relating to: damage not covered by the Damage Waiver, damage exceeding the €500.00 threshold, penalty charges for rule violations, additional cleaning fees, and any other charges arising from a breach of these Terms. The Guest shall be notified of any such charge together with supporting evidence.

 

6.8 Condition Report and Burden of Proof

The Guest is responsible for reporting any pre-existing damage or defects within two (2) hours of check-in by sending photographic evidence through the official communication channel (WhatsApp or email). In the absence of such a report, the Property shall be deemed to have been delivered in perfect condition.

 

6.9 Damage vs. Wear and Tear

The Damage Waiver and security deposit apply exclusively to damage caused by the Guest. The Host is solely responsible for ordinary maintenance and natural wear and tear of materials, fixtures, and furnishings (e.g., burnt-out light bulbs, structural defects not caused by the Guest).

 

7. AI Concierge Service (Roy)

7.1 Nature of the Service

The Host provides an AI-powered virtual concierge service known as “Roy”, accessible via WhatsApp and/or other messaging platforms. Roy is designed to assist Guests with general enquiries, local recommendations, check-in instructions, and common requests related to their stay.

 

7.2 Limitations and Disclaimer

Roy is an automated artificial intelligence assistant. While designed to be helpful and accurate, Roy may occasionally provide incomplete or inaccurate information. The Host does not warrant the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information provided by Roy. Guests are encouraged to verify critical information independently or contact the Host’s human staff for complex or urgent matters.

 

7.3 Escalation to Human Staff

Roy is programmed to identify situations requiring human intervention and will escalate such matters to the Host’s staff. Guests may also request to speak with a human representative at any time by asking Roy to connect them with the team.

 

7.4 Data Processing

Conversations with Roy may be recorded, stored, and processed for the purposes of service improvement, quality assurance, and operational management. For full details on data processing, please refer to our separate Privacy Policy.

 

7.5 No Contractual Authority

Roy does not have the authority to modify, waive, or create contractual obligations on behalf of the Host. Any commitments, price changes, or modifications to the reservation terms must be confirmed in writing by the Host’s authorised staff to be binding.

8. Liability and Disclaimer

8.1 Guest’s Property

The Host shall not be liable for any loss, theft, or damage to the Guest’s personal belongings, luggage, vehicles, or any other property brought to or left at the Property, except where such loss or damage is caused by the Host’s proven wilful misconduct or gross negligence.

 

8.2 Interruptions and Force Majeure

The Host shall not be liable for any disruption to services, utilities (including water, electricity, internet, and air conditioning), or access to the Property caused by events beyond the Host’s reasonable control, including but not limited to natural disasters, government actions, strikes, pandemics, technical failures by third-party providers, or any other force majeure event.

 

8.3 Third-Party Services

Any recommendations, referrals, or arrangements made by the Host or by Roy for third-party services (restaurants, transport, activities, etc.) are provided for convenience only. The Host assumes no responsibility for the quality, safety, or outcome of any third-party service.

 

9. Enforcement and Remedies

Failure to comply with these Terms and Conditions authorises the Host to take any or all of the following actions:

• Apply penalties and charges as described in these Terms
• Charge the Guest’s credit or debit card on file for additional costs relating to damages, extraordinary cleaning, or rule violations
• Terminate the Guest’s stay immediately in serious cases, without refund
• Pursue legal action for the recovery of any outstanding amounts or for damages suffered

The Host shall endeavour to notify the Guest of any charges and provide reasonable supporting evidence. However, the Guest’s obligation to pay arises from the occurrence of the relevant event and is not conditional upon prior notification.

 

10. Website Terms of Use

10.1 Intellectual Property

All content on the Vela Blu Ltd website, including but not limited to text, photographs, graphics, logos, and design, is the property of Vela Blu Ltd or its licensors and is protected by applicable intellectual property laws. Reproduction, distribution, or use of any content without prior written consent is prohibited.

 

10.2 Accuracy of Information

While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information on our website, including property descriptions, photographs, and pricing, the Host does not guarantee that all information is complete, current, or error-free. Photographs are for illustrative purposes and actual furnishings or layouts may vary.

 

10.3 Availability and Pricing

All rates and availability displayed on the website are subject to change without notice. A reservation is only confirmed upon receipt of an official booking confirmation from the Host.

 

11. General Legal Provisions

11.1 Governing Law and Jurisdiction

These Terms shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of Malta. Any dispute arising out of or in connection with these Terms shall be submitted to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of Malta.

 

11.2 Entire Agreement

These Terms, together with the reservation confirmation and any property-specific information provided at check-in, constitute the entire agreement between the Guest and the Host in relation to the accommodation and apply for the entire duration of the stay. No oral or written representations made prior to or at the time of booking shall form part of this agreement unless expressly incorporated herein.

 

11.3 Severability

If any provision of these Terms is found to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable by a competent authority, the remaining provisions shall continue in full force and effect. The invalid provision shall be replaced by a valid provision that most closely reflects the original intent.

 

11.4 Amendments

The Host reserves the right to amend these Terms at any time. The version of the Terms in force at the time of booking shall apply to that reservation. Updated Terms shall be published on our website with the date of the last revision.

 

11.5 Waiver

The failure by the Host to enforce any provision of these Terms shall not constitute a waiver of the Host’s right to subsequently enforce that or any other provision.

 

11.6 Language

These Terms are drafted in English. In the event of any translation, the English version shall prevail in case of discrepancy.

 

12. Contact Information

Vela Blu Ltd.

73, Triq Sir Frederick C. Ponsomby, Gzira, GZR 1070
C91535

Email: info@velablustays.com

Phone: +356 77839999

For urgent matters during your stay, please contact us via WhatsApp or speak with Roy, our AI concierge, who can connect you with our team.