What options do I have if my package holiday does not meet my expectations?
July 15, 2024 | 45,00 EUR | answered by Sophia Breitwieser
Dear travel lawyer,
My name is Otto Riedmüller and I recently booked a package holiday that unfortunately did not meet my expectations. I booked a week's vacation on a sunny island to relax and leave behind the stressful everyday life. However, I had to realize that the hotel is in poor condition, the food is of inferior quality, and the beach near the hotel is heavily polluted. This has greatly affected my holiday experience and I feel disappointed and frustrated.
My concern now is that I have paid a lot of money for this trip and did not receive the services that were promised to me at the time of booking. I wonder if there are legal options to improve my situation and possibly receive compensation. What steps can I take to assert my rights as a consumer and make my dissatisfaction with the package holiday known?
I would be very grateful if you could provide me with some possible solutions and legal steps that could help me to claim a refund or at least receive adequate compensation for the disappointing trip. Thank you in advance for your support and advice.
Sincerely,
Otto Riedmüller
Dear Mr. Riedmüller,
I understand your disappointment and frustration that your package holiday did not meet your expectations. It is important to know that consumers like you are legally protected when booking a package holiday. In case of defects or non-fulfillment of the contractually agreed services, you as a traveler have various rights and options to claim compensation or a refund.
First and foremost, it is important that you report the defects or problems with the booked package holiday to the local tour operator or the local representative of the tour operator immediately. Document all defects and inconveniences in writing and request appropriate remedy. The tour operator is obliged to provide the agreed services and ensure that you can enjoy the booked trip in a suitable quality and as agreed.
If the tour operator is unable to rectify the defects or offer you appropriate compensation, you can take further steps. You have the right to a price reduction if the services provided do not meet the agreed standards. In severe cases, you can even withdraw from the travel contract and demand a refund of the travel price.
If the tour operator is unwilling to address your complaint or take appropriate measures, you can contact a consumer protection center, legal support, or mediation bodies for travel law. These institutions can help you enforce your rights and, if necessary, take legal action to obtain appropriate compensation.
It is important that you carefully keep and document all relevant documents, such as contract documents, booking confirmations, photos of defects, and all communication with the tour operator. The more evidence you can provide, the better your chances of enforcing your rights as a consumer.
I recommend that you contact the tour operator as soon as possible with your concerns and document all steps in writing. If you need further legal support, I am at your disposal.
I hope that my information is helpful to you and wish you success in enforcing your rights as a consumer.
Sincerely,
Sophia Breitwieser
Attorney specializing in travel law
