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Heat wave in Europe: Travelers need to pay close attention now!
Heatwave in Europe: What travelers need to know about package holidays, from cancellation options to travel entitlements.
Heat wave in Europe: Travelers need to pay close attention now!
Europe is currently facing a severe heat wave. High temperatures and forest fires affecting many regions, particularly in Spain and the Mediterranean, are affecting the holidays of paying travelers. The extreme weather conditions not only lead to concerns about health, but also uncertainty regarding travel rights.
How Mercury According to reports, holidaymakers in popular destinations suffer from temperatures of up to 40 degrees Celsius. These extreme values can be both unpleasant and dangerous to health. However, there are only limited options for travelers to cancel their bookings free of charge.
Right to travel in heat and defects
The legal framework is clear: heat alone does not constitute a reason for a free cancellation of the trip Travel reporter explains that high cancellation fees can also apply if travelers have not chosen flexible options. The ADAC has also made it clear that neither the organizer nor the provider are responsible for the weather conditions. However, travelers can cancel their package holiday at any time, incurring cancellation costs.
An important detail concerns defects on site. A defective air conditioning system in the hotel room can be considered a travel deficiency. Holidaymakers should report such defects immediately to secure their claims. If defects are not remedied, the travel price can be reduced by 10 to 20 percent, depending on the duration of the defect. Defects should also be documented and discussed with the tour guide on site.
Special circumstances, special regulations
Particularly serious circumstances, such as forest fires, may allow for free cancellation. Travelers have the right to cancel their booking if the trip can no longer be carried out as usual due to such circumstances. However, fear of forest fires alone is not enough to trigger a cancellation. Only if a fire breaks out near the holiday destination can the contract be terminated and the return journey will be at the organizer's expense.
For travelers who want to avoid high temperatures, Nordic countries, mountain regions or coastal areas in particular offer alternative travel destinations. These options guarantee more bearable climate conditions and a relaxing time for vacationers.
It is worth taking the various legal aspects into account when planning and booking trips. Travelers are encouraged to also check the Federal Foreign Office's Safe Travels app and local weather services to stay up to date on possible dangers and current travel warnings.