Forest fires and volcanic eruptions: How to ensure your holiday protection!

Forest fires and volcanic eruptions: How to ensure your holiday protection!

The question of trip cancellation in light of increasing natural disasters is more relevant than ever for vacationers. Ernst Führich, a renowned member in the field of travel law, provides information on how travelers can protect their financial reserves in times of crisis. In an interview with Capital It is recommended to book package holidays as these are particularly protected by the EU Package Travel Directive. This regulation ensures that customers can insist on their rights, as providers are not allowed to deviate from mandatory consumer rights. Exclusion regulations in the terms and conditions do not apply legally and in most cases the customer has the better cards in legal disputes.

Given the current situation, where natural disasters such as forest fires in Marseille and Crete have already led to the evacuation of holidaymakers, comprehensive information regarding traveler rights is essential. Association office reports that in exceptional circumstances, such as political unrest or natural disasters, package holidaymakers have the option to cancel their booking at no additional cost. Individual travelers, on the other hand, are often left high and dry because they are generally not able to make free cancellations unless there is an official warning from the Foreign Office.

Rights of travelers in the event of a crisis

Organizers are obliged to organize the return journey in the event of a crisis and, if necessary, to secure accommodation for up to three days. This means that holidaymakers are not on their own in such extreme situations. In the event of serious illnesses before the start of the trip, travel cancellation insurance can help cover the costs, while international health insurance protects travelers from high medical expenses during their stay.

Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of trip interruption insurance, which can help mitigate additional costs if a trip has to be canceled early. The experts recommend that you do thorough research before your vacation and check your individual insurance policies to ensure optimal protection.

Challenges from weather and climate changes

The increase in extreme weather events and ongoing political tensions are increasing uncertainty in the travel sector. These challenges pose major tasks not only to travelers but also to organizers. In the event of extraordinary events, travelers should immediately contact their tour guide or the responsible consulate. If the booked services are not available, travelers are generally not obliged to pay; However, a lot depends on the goodwill of the providers.

The growing responsibility of the organizers, both for the safety of travelers and for the implementation of possible rescue measures, is becoming increasingly important. Climate change is causing natural disasters to occur more frequently, which is also affecting travel planning. Holidaymakers are therefore well advised to inform themselves early and to select suitable insurance in order to be able to optimally address potential risks during their trip.