Travel Question of the Day: Simon Calder on how to complain about online travel agents
Have a travel question that needs answering? Ask our expert Simon Calder
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Q Is there a regulator that the general public can contact to make a formal complaint about online travel agents?
Annie Maguire
A Sadly, no. In the olden days - say 20 years ago - it was very difficult for British holidaymakers to book other than through UK-based companies, which were almost invariably members of the trade association, Abta. So in the event of a problem, you always had recourse to Abta. The internet has meant there are far more companies competing for your money. In theory that’s a great development, promising better value for travellers. In practice, though, many holidaymakers fall foul of online travel agents who may not have the traveller’s best interests at heart. Many agents are based abroad, and a significant number outside the EU - making any kind of legal claim difficult. A travel ombudsman is sorely needed, but meanwhile it’s a question of “buyer beware”. While I sometimes use online travel agents that have been recommended by other travellers, generally I prefer to book face-to-face or on the phone with agents based in the UK.
Every day, our travel correspondent Simon Calder tackles readers’ questions. Just email yours to s@hols.tv or tweet @simoncalder
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments