Privacy Policy
Version 1.0 Effective Date: [Insert Date]
1. Introduction
This Privacy Policy explains how [Platform Name] (“we”, “us”, or “the Platform”) collects, uses, stores, and protects personal information of users who access or use our online marketplace. The Platform exists to connect travellers seeking adventure and alternative tourism experiences with independent tour organizers and service providers. We respect user privacy and process personal information only for legitimate purposes related to operating the Platform, facilitating communication between users, and providing marketplace services.
2. Our Role in Data Processing
The Platform acts as an intermediary marketplace connecting travellers and independent organizers. We do not sell personal information, provide personal data for advertising purposes, or share user information with unrelated third parties. Personal information is primarily processed to enable communication and transactions between users who are directly involved in a potential or confirmed booking.
3. Information We Collect
We collect information that users voluntarily provide when creating accounts, submitting booking requests, communicating through the Platform, or using marketplace features. This information may include:
- name or preferred name;
- email address;
- telephone number;
- preferred communication method, including messaging applications;
- information provided in messages or booking requests;
- account information.
4. Information Collected From Organizers
To maintain marketplace reliability and reduce risks such as fraud, overbooking, or misleading listings, we may request additional information from Organizers. This information may include:
- identity information;
- business information;
- registration details;
- professional qualifications;
- licenses or permits where applicable;
- insurance information;
- information related to offered Tours.
This information is collected for verification, trust, safety, and marketplace quality purposes. Verification information is not intended for public display unless explicitly stated and agreed.
5. How We Use Personal Information
We use personal information for the following purposes:
- creating and managing user accounts;
- connecting Travellers with Organizers;
- processing Booking Requests;
- sending booking confirmations and notifications;
- facilitating communication between involved parties;
- preventing fraud, misuse, and marketplace abuse;
- maintaining security and reliability of the Platform;
- improving Platform functionality.
6. Sharing Information Between Travellers and Organizers
The primary purpose of the Platform is to connect Travellers and Organizers. When a Traveller submits a Booking Request, relevant Traveller information may be shared with the Organizer responsible for the requested Tour. When a booking is confirmed, relevant Organizer contact information may be shared with the Traveller. This exchange of information is necessary to allow the Traveller and Organizer to communicate and complete arrangements related to the Tour. We do not share personal information with persons or organizations that are not directly involved in the relevant booking process, except where required by law.
7. Payment Information
The Platform does not process or store complete payment card information or banking details. Payments may be processed through independent third-party payment providers, including services such as Stripe, PayPal, or other licensed payment processors. Payment providers process transactions according to their own privacy policies, security standards, and legal obligations. The Platform may receive limited transaction-related information necessary for operating the marketplace, such as payment status, transaction identification, or confirmation of successful payment.
8. Legal Basis for Processing (GDPR)
Where applicable under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), we process personal information based on:
- performance of services requested by users;
- legitimate interests in operating and securing the Platform;
- prevention of fraud and misuse;
- compliance with legal obligations;
- user consent where required.
9. Data Retention
We retain personal information only for as long as necessary for the purposes described in this Privacy Policy. Retention periods may depend on:
- the nature of the information;
- legal requirements;
- security and fraud prevention needs;
- ongoing disputes or obligations.
10. Data Security
We take reasonable technical and organizational measures to protect personal information from unauthorized access, loss, misuse, or disclosure. However, no online service can guarantee absolute security, and users should also take appropriate measures to protect their own accounts and communications.
11. Third-Party Services
The Platform may use trusted third-party services necessary for operation, including:
- payment providers;
- hosting providers;
- email delivery services;
- security services;
- analytics or technical services.
Such providers may process limited information necessary to provide their services.
12. User Rights
Depending on applicable law, users may have rights including:
- access to personal information;
- correction of inaccurate information;
- deletion of personal information;
- restriction of processing;
- objection to certain processing activities;
- withdrawal of consent where processing is based on consent.
Users may exercise these rights by contacting us using the contact details provided below.
13. Children’s Privacy
The Platform is not intended for users who are below the minimum legal age required to use online services in their jurisdiction. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children without appropriate authorization.
14. International Data Transfers
Because the Platform may connect users and organizers from different countries, personal information may be processed or transferred internationally. Where applicable, we take reasonable steps to ensure appropriate protection of personal information.
15. Changes to This Privacy Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time to reflect changes in our services, technology, or legal requirements. The updated version will be published on the Platform with a revised effective date.
16. Contact Information
If you have questions regarding this Privacy Policy or wish to exercise your data protection rights, please contact: Alternatours.com
Email: info@alternatours.com
End of Privacy Policy