Abroad Escape

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

The following terms and conditions constitute a legally binding agreement between you (the “Participant”) and Abroad Escape Ltd, a company registered in the United Kingdom (“Abroad Escape”, “We”, “Us”).

By submitting your online application and paying the deposit, you confirm that you have read, understood, and accepted these terms in full.

1. BOOKING AND PAYMENTS

1.1. Registration & Contract

A contract comes into force as soon as Abroad Escape issues a written confirmation email acknowledging receipt of your deposit. You must be at least 18 years old to make a booking. If you are under 18, parental consent is required.

1.2. The Deposit (Flexi-Deposit)

To secure your placement, a deposit of £200, €200, or $200 per person is required at the time of booking.

  • Nature of Deposit: You acknowledge that this deposit covers the immediate administrative costs of processing your application, creating your profile, and reserving your accommodation with local partners.

  • Refund Policy: Because these costs are incurred immediately, the deposit is non-refundable if you choose to cancel your booking.

  • 12-Month Validity: However, under our Flexi-Deposit promise, if you cancel your booking, your deposit will be held as a Programme Credit. This credit is valid for 12 months from the date of payment and can be used towards any future Abroad Escape programme.

1.3. Balance Payment

The remaining balance of the programme fee is due no later than 8 weeks (56 days) before your programme start date.

  • Failure to pay the balance by this deadline may result in the cancellation of your placement and the forfeiture of your deposit.

  • Any bank transfer fees or transaction costs are the responsibility of the participant.

2. CANCELLATION BY YOU (THE PARTICIPANT)

2.1. Notice

You may cancel your booking at any time. Cancellation must be made in writing via email. The cancellation is effective from the date we receive this notification.

2.2. Cancellation Charges

As we incur costs from the moment you book (including supplier commitments and staffing), the following cancellation charges apply:

Time Before Start Date Cancellation Charge Credit Eligibility
More than 56 days (8+ weeks) Loss of Deposit (€200) YES. Deposit held as credit for 12 months.
29 to 56 days (4 to 8 weeks) 50% of Total Programme Cost NO.
28 days or less (< 4 weeks) 100% of Total Programme Cost NO.

  • No-Show / Early Departure: If you fail to join the programme on the start date or leave the programme early for any reason (including homesickness or personal matters), no refund will be issued.

  • Exceptions: We cannot make exceptions to this policy for personal emergencies, illness, visa denials, or other personal circumstances. You are strongly advised to take out comprehensive Travel Insurance that covers cancellation.

3. CANCELLATION OR CHANGES BY US

3.1. Changes by Us

We aim to operate all programmes as described. However, due to the nature of travel in developing countries, we reserve the right to make changes to the itinerary, accommodation, or project details if local circumstances (e.g., weather, political events, partner requirements) make it necessary. We will provide a suitable alternative of a similar standard.

3.2. Cancellation by Us

In the unlikely event that we are forced to cancel your specific programme (e.g., due to insufficient participant numbers or force majeure), you will receive either:

  • A full refund of all monies paid (including the deposit); OR

  • A placement on an alternative programme of your choice (price differences will be adjusted).

We are not responsible for any secondary costs incurred by you, such as non-refundable flight tickets, vaccinations, or visa fees.

4. INSURANCE (MANDATORY)

It is a strict condition of booking that you must have valid Travel Insurance for the duration of your trip. Your policy must include cover for:

  • Medical expenses and repatriation.

  • Personal liability.

  • Cancellation and curtailment.

  • Adventure activities (if applicable to your programme).

You are solely responsible for verifying that your insurance policy covers the specific activities you will be undertaking.

5. PASSPORTS, VISAS & FLIGHTS

5.1. Flights

Abroad Escape does not organize or sell flights. You are solely responsible for arranging your own travel to and from the destination. We accept no liability for flight cancellations, delays, or missed connections.

5.2. Documents

You are responsible for ensuring your passport is valid (usually for at least 6 months beyond your return date) and for obtaining any necessary visas. While we may provide general advice, Abroad Escape is not responsible for visa denials or changes in entry requirements.

6. LIABILITY & RISK

6.1. Assumption of Risk

By participating in our programmes, you acknowledge that travelling and volunteering in developing countries involves inherent risks (e.g., different standards of hygiene, medical facilities, and infrastructure). You accept these risks voluntarily.

6.2. Limitation of Liability

To the maximum extent permitted by law, Abroad Escape Ltd excludes liability for:

  • Loss, theft, or damage to personal property.

  • Personal injury, illness, or death, unless caused by our proven negligence.

  • Acts, omissions, or failures of third-party suppliers, local transport providers, partner organizations, or host families.

7. CODE OF CONDUCT

All participants must adhere to the laws of the host country and the rules of the local project.

  • Zero Tolerance: Illegal drug use, violent behavior, or inappropriate conduct toward children or staff will result in immediate expulsion from the programme with no refund.

  • You agree to respect local customs, culture, and the privacy of others.

8. MINIMUM GROUP SIZ REAL IMMERSION

8.1. To ensure the best social experience and impact, our ‘Real Immersion’ programs require a minimum squad size of three (3) participants to proceed.
8.2. In the unlikely event that a cohort does not reach this minimum capacity, Abroad Escape reserves the right to reschedule or cancel the departure.
8.3. We will notify you of any such cancellation no later than 20 days prior to the departure date.
8.4. If we must cancel due to low numbers, you will be offered the choice of:
* (a) A free transfer to an alternative date or program of equivalent value.
* (b) A voucher valued at 110% of your paid amount.
* (c) A full monetary refund of all payments made to us.
8.5. Abroad Escape is not responsible for non-refundable flight costs.

8. GOVERNING LAW

These Terms and Conditions and any dispute arising out of them shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of England & Wales. The courts of England & Wales shall have exclusive jurisdiction.

COMPANY INFORMATION

Abroad Escape Ltd
Registered in England & Wales.

Registered Office:
3 Hornton Place
London W8 4LZ
United Kingdom