Can I cancel a trip if the security situation at the destination deteriorates?
April 6, 2023 | 40,00 EUR | answered by Fred Kock
Dear travel law attorney,
my name is Isabel Beck and I have a question regarding the cancellation of my planned vacation trip. Some time ago, I booked a trip to Turkey, which is scheduled to take place in two months. However, I have concerns due to the deteriorating security situation in the region, especially because of political unrest and terrorist activities.
I have already researched on the internet and found that the Foreign Office is warning against travel to certain areas of Turkey and is identifying an increased security threat. Since I will be traveling alone, I am very worried about my personal safety and I wonder if it is possible to cancel the trip without incurring high cancellation costs.
I booked the trip through a travel agency and have already made a deposit. Now I am wondering if, due to the deteriorating security situation, I have a right to cancel free of charge or if I should consider alternative solutions such as rebooking to a different destination.
I kindly request your legal assessment regarding the possibility of canceling my trip due to the security situation at the holiday destination and possible courses of action available to me. Thank you in advance for your assistance.
Sincerely,
Isabel Beck
Dear Mrs. Beck,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding the cancellation of your planned vacation trip to Turkey due to the deteriorating security situation in the region. This is indeed an important issue in travel law, as the safety and health of travelers are of utmost priority.
First and foremost, it is important to know that as a traveler, you generally have the right to cancel a trip if there is a "valid reason." A valid reason exists when the trip is significantly affected due to unforeseen circumstances, such as political unrest or terrorist activities at the destination. In your case, since the Foreign Office warns against travel to certain areas in Turkey and identifies an increased security risk, this could be considered a valid reason for canceling your trip.
If you booked the trip through a travel agency, you should first check the contract terms to see if anything is regulated regarding cancellation due to security concerns. Often, tour operators offer goodwill arrangements in such cases, allowing for a free cancellation or rebooking. It is important that you contact the travel agency as soon as possible and express your concerns regarding the security situation in Turkey.
If the travel agency does not offer a free cancellation or rebooking, you may seek legal assistance to enforce your rights. An experienced travel law attorney can help you assert your claims and potentially obtain a refund of the deposit already paid.
In any case, I recommend that you promptly seek a solution for your trip cancellation to minimize potential costs and ensure your safety. If you have any further questions or need legal assistance, I am at your disposal.
Best regards,
Fred Kock
Attorney specializing in travel law
