What steps need to be taken if the booked tour is canceled due to bad weather?
February 21, 2023 | 40,00 EUR | answered by Alwin Hohenwarter
Dear Travel Law Attorney,
My name is Robert Gallenberg and I recently booked a tour that was canceled due to bad weather. I had been looking forward to this trip for a long time and was understandably disappointed when I received the news that the tour could not take place.
The tour was organized by a tour operator who informed me that due to the bad weather, there were safety concerns and the tour had to be canceled. I understand that my safety comes first, but I am still disappointed that I did not have the opportunity to experience the tour as planned.
Now I am wondering what steps I need to take to get a refund or book an alternative tour. Am I entitled to a refund for the canceled tour? Or can the tour operator offer me an alternative tour that takes place at a later date?
I am unsure of how to proceed in this situation and would appreciate your expertise and support. What options do I have to get my money back or book an alternative tour?
Thank you in advance for your help.
Sincerely,
Robert Gallenberg
Dear Mr. Gallenberg,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding the canceled tour due to bad weather and your questions about your rights as a customer in this situation. It is understandable that you are disappointed, but your safety is of course the top priority.
In terms of the refund of the costs for the canceled tour, there are certain regulations that you should be aware of. According to German travel law, you generally have the right to a refund of the costs already paid if the tour is canceled due to unforeseeable circumstances such as bad weather. In your case, if the tour operator had to cancel the tour due to safety concerns, it is considered such an unforeseeable circumstance.
The tour operator is usually obligated to refund the amount you have already paid. Therefore, you should contact the tour operator immediately and request a refund. If the tour operator refuses to refund the money, you can take legal action and consult a travel law attorney to assert your rights.
Regarding the possibility of booking an alternative tour, it is important to check if the tour operator offers you such an option. Sometimes tour operators offer alternative dates or tours that take place at a later time. In this case, you may consider this option and discuss the possibility of rescheduling with the tour operator.
It is advisable to document all communication with the tour operator in writing to have evidence in case of disputes or legal disputes. Additionally, you can contact consumer protection agencies or specialized travel law attorneys for further assistance and advice.
I hope this information helps you and that you are able to successfully assert your rights. If you have any further questions or need legal assistance, I am at your service.
Sincerely,
Alwin Hohenwarter
Travel Law Attorney
