Refund Policy
Last Updated: May 17, 2026 | Version 2.0
Global Lions is an independent holiday-planning consultancy. We help you plan, you book directly with our trusted suppliers.
Refund Policy Overview
Since you book directly with suppliers, all refunds are subject to the terms and conditions of the airline, hotel, or tour operator you booked with. Global Lions does not handle bookings or payments, so we cannot process refunds directly.
Important: Our Role in Refunds
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
- Refunds must be requested directly from your chosen suppliers
If you need a refund for 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.
Refund Eligibility
Refund eligibility depends entirely on the terms and conditions of the supplier you booked with:
- Airlines: Fare type determines refundability - flexible fares may be refundable, promotional fares often non-refundable
- Hotels: Standard rates often have free cancellation windows, non-refundable rates offer no refunds
- Holiday packages: ATOL-protected packages have specific cancellation terms outlined in your booking
- Tours & activities: Often have strict cancellation deadlines for refund eligibility
Supplier-Specific Refund Rules
Different types of suppliers have different refund policies:
- Full-service airlines: May offer refunds on higher fare classes, often with cancellation fees
- Low-cost carriers: Typically non-refundable; may offer credit for future travel
- Promotional fares: Usually non-refundable and non-changeable
- Premium/Business class: More flexible refund terms with lower penalties
- Hotels - flexible rates: Free cancellation up to 24-72 hours before check-in
- Hotels - non-refundable rates: Full payment required, no refunds
Refundable Bookings
Flexible fares and standard rates may be refundable according to supplier terms. Cancellation fees may apply.
Non-Refundable Bookings
Many promotional fares, low-cost carriers, and special rates are non-refundable once booked.
Refund Processing Times
If you're eligible for a refund, processing times vary by supplier and payment method:
- Airlines: Typically 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
- Bank transfers: 3-7 business days depending on your bank
If you haven't received your refund after the expected timeframe, contact the supplier directly with your booking reference.
Planning Fees
Important: Our holiday planning fees are non-refundable once we've completed your custom itinerary. These fees cover the time and expertise invested in researching and creating your personalized holiday plan. If you're not satisfied with our initial proposal, we offer a full refund of the planning fee before work begins.
This policy is clearly communicated before any planning work starts.
Important Note
Global Lions does not handle bookings or payments, so we cannot process refunds directly. All refunds must be requested from the suppliers you booked with. We can provide guidance and help you understand supplier policies, but we cannot guarantee refunds or intervene on your behalf with suppliers.
How to Request a Refund
Check Your Booking
Review your booking confirmation to understand the supplier's cancellation and refund policy.
Contact the Supplier Directly
Reach out to the airline, hotel, or tour operator you booked with using your booking reference.
Request Refund
Follow the supplier's process for cancellation and refund requests.
Track Your Refund
Monitor your bank statement or credit card account for the refund. Follow up with the supplier if needed.
Travel Insurance Protection
We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance for every trip. Insurance can protect you against cancellation costs when:
- Illness, injury, or family emergencies prevent travel
- Travel delays or missed connections
- Unforeseen events beyond your control
- Supplier insolvency
Without travel insurance, you may lose the full cost of your holiday if you need to cancel, even if you booked directly with suppliers.
Need help understanding refund policies? If you're unsure about your refund eligibility or need assistance interpreting supplier policies, contact us and we'll help guide you through the process.
Need Help with a Refund?
Our team can help you understand supplier refund policies and guide you through the process.
Mon – Sat: 9 AM – 8 PM
Global Lions is an independent holiday-planning consultancy. We help you plan, you book directly with our trusted suppliers. Refunds must be requested directly from the suppliers you booked with.