Cancellation Policy

Important: Our Role in Cancellations

Global Lions is a planning consultancy, not a booking agency. This means:

• We do not hold your payment information or booking details with suppliers
• You book directly with airlines, hotels, and tour operators
• Your contract is directly with the suppliers you booked with
• Cancellation and refund policies are governed by your chosen suppliers

If you need to cancel a booking, you must contact the supplier you booked with directly. We can offer guidance on how to proceed, but we cannot intervene on your behalf.

How to Cancel a Booking

Since you book directly with suppliers, here's how to handle cancellations:

• Check your booking confirmation: Review the cancellation policy stated in your confirmation email
• Contact the supplier directly: Call or email the airline, hotel, or tour operator you booked with
• Have your booking reference ready: This is usually found in your confirmation email
• Act quickly: The sooner you cancel, the better chance of minimizing penalties

General Cancellation Guidelines

While each supplier has its own policies, here are general guidelines you can expect:

• Flights: Cancellation fees depend on fare type. Non-refundable fares may offer zero refund, while flexible fares may have lower penalties
• Hotels: Most hotels offer free cancellation up to 24-72 hours before check-in. Non-refundable rates may charge full amount
• Holiday packages: ATOL-protected packages have specific cancellation terms outlined in your booking
• Tours & activities: Often have strict cancellation windows (24-48 hours) for full refunds

Typical Cancellation Timeline by Supplier Type

Refund Processing Times

If you're eligible for a refund, processing times vary by supplier:

• Airlines: 7-21 business days for refund processing
• Hotels: 3-10 business days depending on booking platform
• Tour operators: 10-14 business days typically
• Credit card refunds: May take an additional 5-10 business days to appear on your statement

If you haven't received your refund after the expected timeframe, contact the supplier directly with your booking reference.

Travel Insurance Protection

We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance for every trip. Insurance can protect you against:

• Cancellation due to illness, injury, or family emergencies
• Travel delays and missed connections
• Lost, stolen, or damaged baggage
• Medical emergencies abroad
• Unforeseen events beyond your control

Supplier-Specific Cancellation Rules

Different types of suppliers have different policies:

• Full-service airlines: Often offer more flexible cancellation options, especially on higher fare classes
• Low-cost carriers: Typically have strict non-refundable policies; changes often incur high fees
• Promotional fares: Usually non-refundable and non-changeable
• Premium/Business class: More flexible cancellation terms with lower penalties
• Hotel non-refundable rates: Full payment required at booking, no refunds for cancellations

COVID-19 & Travel Disruptions

Travel disruptions due to COVID-19 or other events are handled according to supplier policies:

• If an airline cancels your flight, you're typically entitled to a refund or rebooking
• If you choose not to travel due to concerns, standard cancellation policies apply
• Travel insurance may cover COVID-related cancellations depending on your policy
• Check supplier websites for the most current COVID-19 policies and requirements

How We Can Help

While we don't handle bookings, we're here to support you:

• Policy interpretation: We can help you understand the cancellation terms of suppliers you booked with
• Guidance: We can advise on the best way to request cancellations
• Alternative suggestions: If your plans change, we can help you find alternative options
• Insurance claims: We can provide documentation to support insurance claims where applicable

Need Help with a Cancellation?

If you're unsure about your cancellation options or need guidance on next steps, contact us and we'll help you navigate the process.

Mon – Sat: 9 AM – 8 PM