Introduction

At Star Bright Lane, we understand that plans can change. This Refund Policy outlines our procedures for refunds and cancellations for the travel services we provide. This policy should be read in conjunction with our Terms and Conditions.

By making a booking with us, you agree to the terms of this Refund Policy. We reserve the right to modify this policy at any time, and changes will be effective immediately upon posting to our website.

Standard Cancellation and Refund Schedule

The following refund schedule applies to most of our travel services, unless otherwise specified at the time of booking:

Time of Cancellation Refund Amount
More than 60 days before departure Full refund minus deposit (usually 20% of total booking value)
59-45 days before departure 50% of total booking price
44-30 days before departure 25% of total booking price
29 days or less before departure No refund

Please note that certain services may have different cancellation and refund terms, which will be clearly communicated to you at the time of booking and in your booking confirmation.

Special Circumstances

2.1 Non-Refundable Bookings

Some promotions or special offers may be advertised as non-refundable. In such cases, no refund will be provided in the event of cancellation, regardless of when the cancellation occurs.

2.2 Supplier-Specific Terms

Some travel suppliers (airlines, hotels, tour operators, etc.) impose their own cancellation and refund policies, which may be more restrictive than our standard policy. In such cases, the supplier's policy will apply, and we will clearly communicate these terms to you at the time of booking.

2.3 Group Bookings

Group bookings (typically 10 or more travelers) are subject to special refund terms, which will be outlined in a separate group booking agreement.

Cancellation Process

3.1 How to Cancel a Booking

To cancel a booking, you must notify us in writing by email to [email protected] or by registered mail to our office address. Verbal cancellations will not be accepted.

Your cancellation request should include:

  • Your full name
  • Booking reference number
  • Date of travel
  • Reason for cancellation

3.2 Cancellation Confirmation

We will acknowledge receipt of your cancellation request within 2 business days and confirm the applicable refund amount based on the cancellation schedule. The cancellation date used to determine the refund amount will be the date on which we receive your written cancellation request.

Refund Process

4.1 Refund Method

Refunds will be processed using the same payment method used for the original booking. For example, if you paid by credit card, the refund will be credited back to the same card.

4.2 Refund Timeline

We will process refunds within 14 business days of confirming your cancellation. However, please note that it may take an additional 5-10 business days for the refund to appear in your account, depending on your payment provider's policies.

4.3 Refund Limitations

Refunds are limited to the amount paid for the booking. We cannot refund:

  • Credit card or payment processing fees
  • Travel insurance premiums
  • Visa application fees
  • Other third-party fees that are non-refundable

Cancellations by Star Bright Lane

5.1 Discretionary Cancellations

In rare circumstances, we may need to cancel a booking due to factors within our control. In such cases, you will be offered:

  • A full refund of all monies paid; or
  • An alternative travel service of equivalent or higher quality, if available.

5.2 Force Majeure Cancellations

If we cancel your booking due to circumstances beyond our reasonable control (Force Majeure), including but not limited to natural disasters, acts of terrorism, civil unrest, pandemic, or government travel restrictions, our liability is limited to:

  • A credit voucher for the full amount paid, valid for 24 months; or
  • A partial refund, after deducting any non-refundable expenses already incurred on your behalf.

5.3 Minimum Numbers Not Met

Some tours require a minimum number of participants to operate. If this minimum is not reached, we may cancel the tour. In such cases, you will be notified at least 30 days before departure and offered:

  • A full refund of all monies paid; or
  • An alternative travel service; or
  • The option to proceed with the tour at a supplemental cost.

Travel Insurance

We strongly recommend that all travelers purchase comprehensive travel insurance that includes cancellation coverage. Travel insurance can provide protection against financial loss in many circumstances where our standard refund policy would not apply, such as:

  • Illness or injury preventing travel
  • Death or serious illness of a close relative
  • Natural disasters affecting your home
  • Last-minute cancellations due to work commitments

We can assist you in arranging appropriate travel insurance or provide recommendations.

Amendments to Bookings

7.1 Amendment Fees

If you wish to make changes to your booking after confirmation (such as changing dates, accommodations, or services), amendment fees may apply. These fees vary depending on the nature of the change and how close to the departure date the change is requested.

7.2 Rate Changes

If your amendment results in a change to the total cost of your booking (such as a different travel date with higher rates), you will be responsible for paying the difference. If the amendment results in a lower total cost, the refund will be subject to the cancellation schedule above.

No-Shows and Early Departures

If you do not show up for a booked service or choose to leave a tour, accommodation, or other service early, no refund will be provided for the unused portion of your booking, unless specifically covered by your travel insurance.

Special Refund Programs

9.1 Flexible Booking Option

For select tours and services, we offer a "Flexible Booking" option for an additional fee. This option allows you to cancel your booking up to 14 days before departure for any reason and receive a full refund minus the Flexible Booking fee.

9.2 Covid-19 Specific Policy

For bookings affected by COVID-19 related issues, we have implemented special refund provisions:

  • If government travel restrictions prevent you from reaching your destination or returning home, you may cancel and receive a credit voucher valid for 24 months.
  • If you test positive for COVID-19 within 14 days of departure (with proof of a positive test), you may reschedule your trip without amendment fees, subject to availability and any rate differences.

This COVID-19 policy is subject to review and may change as the global situation evolves.

Disputes and Complaints

If you believe a refund has been incorrectly calculated or not properly processed, please contact our Customer Service team at [email protected] within 30 days of receiving your refund confirmation.

We will investigate your claim and respond within 14 business days. If we find that an error has occurred, we will rectify it promptly.

Contact Information

For questions about this Refund Policy or to request a cancellation, please contact us at:

Star Bright Lane
1 Saunders Hollow East
Scarlettstad, ME15 0JU
United Kingdom
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +44 518 148 9294