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The Essentials: Policies, Terms & How We Roll

 

The need-to-knows before you hit “book.” This section covers how we handle your data, what to expect when you travel with us, and the kind of behaviour that keeps the group vibe right.

 

Boring? Maybe. Important? Absolutely.

Privacy Policy

Welcome to It Started with a Trip (“we,” “our,” or “us”). Your privacy matters to us. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and protect your personal information when you visit our website www.itstartedwithatrip.com (the “Site”) and use our services.

1. Information We Collect

We may collect and process the following types of information:

a. Information You Provide to Us

  • When you join a waitlist, subscribe to our newsletter, book a trip, or contact us, we may collect your name, email address, phone number, and relevant travel or payment details.

  • If you create an account, we may store your login credentials.

  • If you complete surveys or provide feedback, we’ll collect your responses.

 

b. Information We Collect Automatically

When you visit our Site, we may automatically collect:

  • Device Information: IP address, browser type, operating system.

  • Usage Data: Pages visited, time spent on the site, and how you interact with the site.

  • Cookies & Tracking Technologies: We use cookies to improve your browsing experience and analyse site traffic. You can manage or disable cookies in your browser settings.

 

c. Information from Third Parties

We may receive information from trusted partners - such as payment processors and marketing platforms - to help us improve and deliver our services.

2. How We Use Your Information

We process your personal data under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) based on the following legal grounds:

  • Contractual Necessity: To manage bookings, process payments, and provide trip-related services.

  • Legitimate Interests: To improve our services, communicate with you, and analyse website performance.

  • Consent: To send marketing communications, where you’ve opted in (you can withdraw consent at any time).

  • Legal Obligation: To comply with applicable laws and regulations.

 

3. Sharing Your Information

We do not sell your personal information.

We may share your data with:

  • Service Providers: For services such as web hosting, payment processing, email platforms, and operational logistics.

  • Travel Partners: Where necessary to deliver booked experiences (e.g. hotels, guides, DMCs).

  • Legal Authorities: Where required to comply with legal obligations or protect our rights.

If we transfer data outside the UK or EU, we ensure appropriate safeguards are in place (e.g. Standard Contractual Clauses).

4. Your Rights Under GDPR

If you are based in the UK or EU, you have the right to:

  • Request access to the personal data we hold about you

  • Request corrections or updates

  • Request that we delete your data

  • Restrict or object to the processing of your data

  • Request your data in a portable format

  • Withdraw your consent at any time

To exercise any of these rights, email us at [insert contact email]. We will respond within one month, in accordance with GDPR.

 

5. Data Security

We use appropriate technical and organisational measures to protect your personal information. While no system is ever 100% secure, we are committed to safeguarding your data and regularly review our security practices.

7. Data Retention

We only keep your personal data for as long as it’s needed to fulfil the purpose it was collected for, including legal, accounting or reporting requirements. If you ask us to delete it, and we’re not legally required to keep it, we will.

 

8. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. Any updates will be posted here with a new effective date. We recommend reviewing this page periodically to stay informed.

 

9. Contact Us

If you have questions about this policy or how your data is handled, you can contact us:

It Started with a Trip
📧 startyourtrip@itstartedwithatrip.com
🌐 www.itstartedwithatrip.com

You also have the right to lodge a complaint with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) in the UK or your local supervisory authority if you believe your data has been misused.

Terms & Conditions

Thanks for choosing It Started With a Trip. We know no one books a holiday hoping to read terms and conditions - but it’s important you know how everything works before your trip begins.

These T&Cs form the agreement between you (the traveller) and us (It Started With a Trip Ltd), so please read them carefully. If anything’s unclear, just ask. We’re happy to talk it through.

1. Booking & Payment

To lock in your spot, we ask for a £300 deposit. The full balance is due 8 weeks before departure.
We offer payment plans if that’s easier for you - just get in touch.

Changing your mind? You’ll get a full refund if you cancel within 10 days of booking (as long as your departure is more than 8 weeks away).

Need to transfer your place to someone else? Email us - we’ll do our best to help.

2. Cancellation & Refunds

We understand that life’s unpredictable. Here’s how cancellations work:

 

Notice Given                      Refund Policy


More than 15 weeks           Full refund

12-15 weeks                        Full refund (less the deposit)

8–12 weeks                         No refund, your welcome to discuss transferring your space to another trip

Less than 8 weeks              No refund

Your deposit is non-refundable after the 10-day cooling off period, unless you cancel more than 15 weeks before departure.

If you can’t travel, we’ll always explore credit or rebooking options where possible - especially if it means keeping your spot warm for a future trip. To cancel a trip, you must contact us in writing.

3. Transferring Your Booking

Can’t make it but want to pass your place on to a mate? We totally get it. Drop us an email at contactus@itstartedwithatrip.com as soon as possible and we’ll see what’s possible.

Here’s how it works:

  • You can transfer your booking to another person up to 14 days before the trip starts, as long as they meet the trip requirements.

  • There’s a £75 admin fee for the switch, plus any non-refundable costs we’ve already incurred (like hotel or activity deposits).

  • Both you and the person taking your place will need to confirm the change in writing and agree to the same terms and conditions.

If you’ve got someone in mind, just let us know - we’ll talk you through the steps.

4. What’s Included

Our trips include:
✔️ Handpicked boutique stays
✔️ Guided activities & experiences
✔️ Full-time trip host/guide
✔️ All in-country transport

What’s not included:
❌ Flights
❌ Travel insurance (mandatory)
❌ Some meals (because local food deserves exploring)

5. Changes to the Trip

Sometimes, the unexpected happens - weather shifts, political unrest, transport hiccups. If we need to adjust the itinerary, we’ll replace anything with an equivalent or better experience where possible. We’ll always keep you informed.

We also reserve the right to swap out accommodation, activities, or guides if needed - you’ll still get the same high standard we promise.

6. Travel Docs & Insurance

You’re responsible for:

  • Your passport, visas, vaccinations

  • Making sure they’re valid and up to date

We don’t check documents - that’s on you.

Travel insurance is a must. Your policy must cover cancellations, medical emergencies, and the types of activities we do.

7. Health, Accessibility & Fitness

Our trips involve a mix of activity - think walking tours, boat days, swimming, hikes, and the occasional quad bike or zipline. You definitely don’t need to be super fit, but a general level of mobility and comfort with group travel will help you enjoy the experience fully.

If you have any health conditions, injuries or accessibility needs, please tell us before you book. We’ll do our best to support you - and let you know honestly whether the trip will be a good fit. Ultimately though, it’s your responsibility to decide if a trip is suitable for you.

If you’re unsure, get in touch. We’d rather talk it through early and make sure everyone’s set up to have an amazing time.

8. Liability & Responsibility

We work with vetted local suppliers and partners. While we do everything to ensure the trip runs smoothly, we’re not liable for delays, cancellations, or issues caused by third parties.

You’re responsible for your belongings and personal conduct at all times.

9. Cutting Your Trip Short

If you decide to leave the trip early for personal reasons, we won’t be able to offer a refund for the parts you miss. We’ll help however we can to support you in making new arrangements, but any extra costs will be your responsibility.

If you have to cut your trip short due to illness, injury, or emergency - this is where your travel insurance comes in. We strongly recommend getting cover that includes trip curtailment.

10. Group Behaviour & Conduct

We want every trip to feel safe, respectful, and inclusive. That means:

  • Treating fellow travellers, hosts, and locals with respect

  • Being mindful of cultural norms

  • Zero tolerance for discrimination, harassment, or disruptive behaviour

If anyone’s behaviour puts the group at risk, we reserve the right to remove them from the trip without refund. In this case, they’ll need to make their own arrangements home.

11. If We Cancel or Change Your Trip

We only cancel if we absolutely have to - for example, due to unforeseen circumstances (natural disasters, travel bans, etc.).

If we cancel, we’ll offer:

  • A full refund

  • Or a transfer to another departure/date

  • Or a credit for a future trip

We’ll work with you to make it right.

12. Complaints

If something’s not right during your trip, please speak to your guide as soon as possible - chances are, we can fix it on the spot. We want you to have the best time, and we’ll do everything we can to make that happen.

If you’re still not satisfied, you can email us at [insert email] after the trip. We ask that you get in touch within 28 days of returning, so it’s still fresh and we can properly investigate. We take all feedback seriously - It helps us get better.

10. Legal Bits

  • These terms are governed by UK law.

  • You must be over 18 to book.

  • By booking, you confirm that all info you give us is accurate and that you agree to these terms on behalf of everyone in your booking.

 

Got questions?

Email us anytime at startyourtrip@itstartedwithatrip.com. We’re real humans behind this brand, and we’re always happy to help.

Code of Conduct

Code of Conduct

We’re all about creating unforgettable group adventures with good energy, mutual respect, and zero drama. Here’s what we expect from everyone on our trips - so we all have the kind of experience we signed up for.

 

Respect the Group

This is a shared adventure - not a solo show. That means:

  • Be kind, inclusive, and open-minded. Everyone’s here for a good time.

  • No discrimination, harassment, bullying, or aggressive behaviour - ever.

  • Respect people’s space and privacy. Some need solo time, and that’s cool.

Be a Good Guest

You’re representing us - and yourself - in every place we go. So:

  • Be respectful of local customs, communities, and environments.

  • Ask before snapping pics of locals.

  • Treat accommodation and transport like it’s your own.

Time Matters

We keep things relaxed, but when it’s time to move, it’s time to move.

  • Be on time for departures and activities - it keeps everything running smoothly.

  • If something’s up and you can’t make it, let your guide know.

Know Your Limits

We love a margarita at sunset, but we also love a functioning group.

  • Drink responsibly - this isn’t a hen/stag do.

  • Drugs are a hard no.

  • If your behaviour impacts the group experience, we may ask you to leave the trip - and cover your own onward travel.

Speak Up

If something doesn’t feel right - about the trip, the group, or anything else - tell your guide or get in touch with us directly. We’re here to help.

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