When HolidayTravelWatch was first formed, it was quickly realised that holidaymakers needed a checklist to guide them when they encountered problems. Over the years HolidayTravelWatch has gained invaluable experience which it has endeavoured to share with as many holidaymakers as possible. 

If you do nothing else to prepare for your trip then ensure that you pack the rules!  The rules provide the basis of an action plan should you encounter any difficulties whilst you are abroad, follow these rules and they will form the basis of information that you can use either in resort or when you return to the United Kingdom 

1. Stay Calm – Stay in Control - Complain immediately to the tour operators representative in resort. You must give the tour operator the chance to put things right.
2. Fill out the Customer Services Report form. Make sure you receive a copy. This is not your official complaint.
3. If you are refused the Customer Service Report form - make out your own (2 copies, one for yourself and one for the rep) and get someone to witness it.
4. Do not accept compensation on the spot. Do not sign any document (in whatever language) which may affect your rights, without seeking independent advice! Reserve your position.
5. Get the names, addresses and telephone numbers of other unhappy holidaymakers. Remember, mobilising as a group at the beginning will bond you and your group’s complaint’s together both in the resort and when you return to the UK.
6. Take photographic evidence of complaints. Remember, do not break the law or go into areas without permission.
7. Take video evidence of complaints. Get other holidaymakers to relate their experiences.
8. On returning home - complain within 28 days in writing, keep a copy and send it to the tour operator by recorded delivery.
9. If the tour operator is a member of ABTA, they must abide by the ABTA Code of Conduct and they must acknowledge your letter of complaint within 14 days and reply to you within 28 days.
10. If the tour operator fails to meet the ABTA Code of Conduct, then you can write to ABTA and complain. If ABTA considers it appropriate, they can investigate the matter and will possibly fine their member for breaching the Code of Conduct.
11. Before you go to see or speak to any solicitor to get legal advice, contact HolidayTravelWatch. We can obtain FREE legal advice for you from experts in the field of Holiday and Travel Litigation. If you are not satisfied with the response or reply from the tour operator - then contact HolidayTravelWatch and we will advise and assist you.
12. Never bank a cheque or money from the tour operator unless you are satisfied that you wish to accept it. It could prevent you from taking any legal action in the future. Always take expert legal advice on any offer made to you.

This entry was posted on Wednesday, January 9th, 2008 at 3:27 pm and is filed under Planning Your Trip, Prepare, Travel Advice. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.