1. Choose a travel agent which belongs to a recognized trade association such as the Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA).
2. When booking always check that the details on the invoice are correct and match any descriptions in the brochure.
3. You have extra protection if things go wrong and you have paid by credit card. The credit card company are jointly liable with the tour operator to sort things out.
4. Although taking out holiday insurance is a wise precaution, you don't necessarily have to buy it through the travel agent. Shop around for the best deal.
5. If you have a valid complaint about your holiday when in the resort, talk to the "rep" straight away and allow them the opportunity to put matters right.
6. If the complaint is not resolved whilst in the resort, you need to fill in a complaint form at the time and follow it up with a letter to the tour operator when arriving back home.
7. If your complaint is a serious one, tell the tour operator you want compensation and indicate what you feel would be a reasonable amount.
8. You may need to produce evidence such as photos or statements from other holidaymakers to back up your claim.
9. Usually you have to be prepared to write to the holiday company more than once before they are willing to offer you any compensation.
10. If the matter is still unresolved, you will need to consider whether to take the matter to arbitration or to the small claims court.
Any consumer advice or queries contact Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06.
