Is there a way to get my money back if my trip was canceled due to Covid-19?
January 22, 2023 | 45,00 EUR | answered by Ralf Schlittmaier
Dear legal team,
My name is Christine Neumann and I have a question regarding travel law in relation to the Covid-19 pandemic. Some time ago, I booked a vacation trip which unfortunately got cancelled due to the current situation surrounding the Coronavirus. I have already made a deposit and now I am wondering if there is a way to get my money back.
The situation is as follows: I had planned the trip far in advance and was really looking forward to it. Unfortunately, the travel agency had to cancel the trip due to government restrictions and travel limitations related to Covid-19. I understand that the situation is difficult for all parties involved and that the agency is not at fault for the circumstances. However, I am now faced with the question of whether and how I can get my money back.
My concerns are that I have lost my money and now face a financial loss. I have already spoken to the travel agency but have not received a satisfactory answer so far. Therefore, I am reaching out to you to find out if there are any legal options to reclaim my money.
So my question to you is: Is there a legal basis or legal options to get my money back if my trip was cancelled due to Covid-19? What steps can I take to protect my rights as a consumer and receive a refund?
Thank you in advance for your help and support.
Kind regards,
Christine Neumann
Dear Mrs. Neumann,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding travel law in relation to the Covid-19 pandemic. I understand your concerns and will gladly provide you with as much detailed information and legal options as possible on this topic.
First and foremost, it is important to know that the situation surrounding the Covid-19 pandemic poses a special challenge for many consumers and travel organizers. Many trips had to be canceled due to government restrictions and travel limitations, which can lead to financial losses for both parties.
In your case, since your trip was canceled due to Covid-19, as a consumer you generally have the right to a refund of the amount already paid. This is based on the legal provisions of travel law. According to § 651h BGB (German Civil Code), as a traveler, you are entitled to a refund of the travel price if the trip cannot take place or is canceled.
It is important that you first contact the travel organizer and request a refund of the amount already paid in writing. If the organizer refuses to refund you the money, you should seek advice from a travel law attorney to explore your legal options and potentially take legal action.
There is also the possibility that the travel organizer may offer you a voucher or rescheduling for a later date. However, you are not obligated to accept such an offer if you prefer a refund of the amount already paid.
Overall, it is important that you uphold your rights as a consumer and not settle for an unsatisfactory response from the travel organizer. Utilize your legal options and seek advice from a travel law attorney to get your money back.
I hope this information is helpful to you and I am available for any further questions you may have.
Sincerely,
Ralf Schlittmaier, Attorney
