Privacy Policy

Privacy Policy for docubuddytravel.com

At docubuddytravel.com, we see privacy as a core part of responsible travel. We understand that you are trusting us with your information when you use our site or book one of our services, and we are committed to handling your data with care and transparency.

We provide services in two ways. We provide our own tours and travel experiences, and we also act as an affiliate travel resource connecting you with trusted partners. When you book directly with us, we manage the information required to organise your tour and stay in touch with you. When you follow an affiliate link, all bookings, payments, and personal data are processed by the external provider. We do not view, store, or manage any personal or financial details for affiliate bookings.

This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, share, and protect your information in line with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and the Australian Privacy Principles.

1. Our Role as a Tour Provider and Affiliate Travel Partner

docubuddytravel.com supports travellers exploring the world through both direct services and affiliate recommendations.

For our own tours, we collect only the details needed to manage your booking, provide updates, support your travel experience, and meet safety requirements.

As an affiliate resource, we highlight reliable third-party options such as economybooking.com, trip.com, localrent.com, Tiqets, and similar partners. If you book through one of these links, your booking is handled solely by the third party. We do not receive or store payment information, identification documents, or booking histories related to these services.

Each external service has its own privacy policy. We encourage you to review their practices before booking. Their policies determine how your information is collected, used, and safeguarded.

2. Information We Collect

We only gather information that helps us provide direct services or improve your experience on our site. This may include:

  • Full name

  • Email address

  • Phone number when booking a direct tour

  • Information shared through enquiry forms, comments, or messages

We do not collect payment details, identification documents, or any sensitive data for affiliate bookings. Those are handled securely by the external provider.

3. How We Collect Your Personal Data

You may provide information to us when you:

  • Book one of our direct tours

  • Sign up for newsletters or updates

  • Contact us by email or through our website

  • Submit feedback or comments

If you supply information on behalf of someone else, you confirm you have their permission and that they are aware of this Privacy Policy.

4. Why We Use Your Information

We use your information to:

  • Respond to questions and provide customer support

  • Manage bookings for our direct tours

  • Send newsletters or updates when you have chosen to receive them

  • Improve the performance and usability of our website through anonymous analytics

You can unsubscribe from promotional communications at any time using the link included in our emails.

5. Advertising and Personalisation Preferences

docubuddytravel.com and selected partners may use browsing data to show advertising that aligns with your interests. You can opt out using:

Using the AppChoices app for mobile devices:

Please keep in mind:

  • Opt-outs apply only to the specific device or browser you use

  • Clearing cookies or switching devices may reset your preferences

  • You may still see advertising, but it will not be tailored to your interests

6. Cookies and Analytics

We use cookies to support essential site functions and improve your browsing experience. Cookies help us understand how visitors use our site and allow us to save your preferences.

We may use:

  • Essential cookies for site operation

  • Analytics cookies to study visitor behaviour

  • Preference cookies to remember settings

You may disable cookies in your browser, but some parts of the site may not function correctly.

7. Third Party Services and Links

Our site includes links to third-party travel providers. Once you leave our website:

  • Their privacy and security practices apply

  • We cannot control or guarantee how they handle data

We recommend reviewing their privacy policies before sharing personal information.

8. Sharing Your Information

We do not sell, rent, or trade personal data. We only share information when:

  • Required by law or regulatory bodies

  • You have given clear consent

  • We work with trusted service providers who support our tour services or website functions

These providers must follow strict privacy and security standards.

9. Data Protection and Security

We use recognised security measures to protect your information. Only authorised team members have access to your data.

Although we work hard to keep your information safe, no online system can guarantee absolute security. By using our site, you acknowledge the inherent risks of online communication.

10. International Data Transfers

Some partners we recommend operate outside Australia. This means your information may be processed or stored overseas.

We work only with reputable partners who follow strong privacy practices, but their own policies will govern how they handle your data. Please review their privacy terms before booking.

11. Your Rights to Access and Update Information

You have the right to access the personal information we hold about you and ask for corrections if anything is inaccurate.

We will respond to such requests promptly and securely. You can contact us at:

Email: info@docubuddytravel.com

12. Updates to This Policy

We may revise this policy to reflect:

  • Legal or regulatory changes

  • Updates to our services or partnerships

  • Improvements to our data protection measures

The latest version will always be available on our website. Continued use of our platform indicates you accept the updated terms.

13. Raising Concerns

If you believe we have not handled your data in accordance with this policy, please contact our Privacy Officer.

We will investigate all concerns and take appropriate action. For security reasons, we may need to verify your identity before addressing certain matters.

14. Opting Out of Direct Marketing

You may opt out of direct marketing from docubuddytravel.com or selected partners at any time by:

  • Using the unsubscribe link in our emails

  • Contacting our Privacy Officer

Opting out does not stop all advertising. You may still see general ads that are not tailored to you.

15. Contact Our Privacy Officer

For questions, access requests, corrections, or concerns about how we handle personal data, please reach out to our Privacy Officer.

Email: info@docubuddytravel.com