"I don't typically write reviews about any enterprise, as I consider their perspective and the challenges they face. However, my recent experience with Star Tours UK has compelled me to write my first review, due to the gravity and helplessness I felt in the situation.\r\n\r\nI recently experienced an appalling and highly unethical service from Star Tours UK, that I feel compelled to share, in the hope that potential customers will avoid falling victim to their dubious practices.\r\n\r\nOn March 22, 2024, I booked the Panoramic Europe 5-day trip with Star Tours for myself and my family, scheduled for departure on May 13, 2024 (Invoice No: 338341, Booking Reference: 158599\/ ALIM). I paid an advance of \u00a3765 (approx. \u20b978,000) for the trip (enclosing invoice). Unfortunately, due to unforeseen circumstances, I had to cancel my booking immediately after making it. This cancellation was made well months in advance of the trip's departure date, yet to my dismay, Star Tours refused to refund even a single penny of my payment.\r\n\r\nThis treatment is especially egregious considering my longstanding relationship with Star Tours. Over the years, I have been a loyal customer, having taken their Scotland trip thrice, and my relatives and colleagues have also frequently availed their services. Despite this loyalty, Star Tours showed no consideration or goodwill in handling my situation.\r\n\r\nWhat makes this situation even worse is that their own cancellation policy states that cancellation charges begin at 25% of the total holiday cost only if notice is given 28 days before departure. Since my cancellation was made well months in advance, there should have been no charge at all. Their refusal to refund my advance payment is not only unfair but also indicative of their deeply unethical business practices.\r\n\r\nStar Tours should have considered my request for a refund given the significant notice provided and my history as a loyal customer. Their complete lack of flexibility and empathy is shocking. Furthermore, when I inquired about the refund over the phone, their customer service was negligent and dismissive, showing no intention of assisting me or understanding my predicament.\r\n\r\nIt is also worth noting that friends, relatives, and colleagues who had to cancel similar trips with other travel companies have promptly received their refunds. These companies demonstrated genuine customer-friendly policies and understood the importance of treating their clients with fairness and respect. This stark contrast only highlights the unethical nature of Star Tours\u2019 practices.\r\n\r\nI strongly urge potential customers to reconsider booking with Star Tours. Their lack of integrity, disregard for customer loyalty, and unethical behavior are appalling. At any time, you could find yourself in a similar situation, facing unexpected circumstances, and you deserve a travel company that values its customers and operates with transparency and fairness. Look for genuine, customer-friendly tours and avoid Star Tours at all costs.\r\n\r\nRegards,\r\nMahitosh Satish\r\n(Contact- +91 7907608813)"
