Non-existent accommodation, unexpected charges, cancellations without the right to a refund of the advance amount are some of the conflicts that can arise after contracting the summer holidays. To avoid losing money or falling into a scam, it is recommended to take several aspects into account before making the disbursement for the reservation.
Hotels and rental apartments are the preferred accommodations for Spaniards, according to a study by the Organization of Consumers and Users (OCU). However, sometimes all that glitters is not gold, especially when the reservation is made online. Sometimes what is advertised on the internet is far from reality or, what is worse, it does not even exist.
For this reason, it is always advisable to look for platforms or travel agencies with good references, "the same as for the hotels or apartments that they offer on their website". It is also convenient to compare the reviews and comments of other travelers on different websites. "Take into account the proximity of the publication date and the type of traveler," they add from the European Consumer Center (CEC) in Spain.
All caution is little when it comes to avoiding that the reservation of an accommodation ends up being a devastating experience. "By system, it is wary of too good rentals, at a bargain price, since there could be nothing behind it," warns the OCU. An effective way to verify the veracity of the ad is to make sure that the photographs are real and correspond to those of the building where it is located. "To do this, you can enter the accommodation address in an image search engine and check if the images match those advertised," they advise from the CEC.
Regarding the price, "further notice will allow you to enjoy better prices," they assert from the consumer organization. However, it is advisable to prioritize reservations with flexible or free cancellation. In addition, it must be taken into account that the price of the accommodation may include additional services to the stay, so it is recommended to check the conditions of the chosen rate. Nor should it be overlooked that booking at the establishment itself, instead of doing it with intermediaries, "is usually cheaper", they point out from the CEC.
Likewise, choosing accommodations located outside the historic centers and the most touristic areas can save money. “Contact directly with the hotel or the owner to check the information on the price, cancellation conditions, services and accommodation regime that appears on the online reservation platforms. The charges for the service of the platforms may increase the price offered directly by the establishment”, they warn.
Another detrimental factor for the pocket is to fall into a trap of social engineering. A technique that is used to pressure and manipulate the consumer, forcing him to make an impulsive or hasty purchase decision. To avoid stinging on this technique, you must always be wary of expressions such as "last chance", "unique opportunity" or "only one room available". "If in doubt, contact the establishment or owner," they insist.
In any case, it is convenient to save the advertising brochures or the screenshots of the web. "Advertising is linked to the contract and the services must correspond to it", they maintain from the OCU.
One of the main fears of travelers is whether they would recover the money paid for the reservation in case of cancellation. From the CEC they explain that "although there are no harmonized rules on cancellation, the establishment can penalize the consumer with a charge in these cases." Therefore, it will be necessary to pay attention to its cancellation policy and find out if you have the right to a refund or partial refund of the money. In addition, in the event of cancellation due to extraordinary circumstances (force majeure), it will generally be a court ruling that determines whether you are entitled to a refund. "In any case, it is always recommended to inform the hotel at least 24 hours before the planned date of arrival," they add.
When paying the amount of the reservation, you must make sure that the payment gateway is secure and that it will be made with a URL that begins with "https://" the icon of a lock or key. “Pay preferably with a credit card to be able to recover the money in case of fraud or with an exclusive recharge card for online payments. Avoid direct transfers (Western Union, Worldremit, Worldplay or Moneycorp), payments with free or open Wi-Fi networks and close session at the end of the reservation ”, warn from the CEC.
And, finally, in the case of having chosen the air means to travel to the destination, consumer organizations warn of "unexpected costs" that cheap flights often entail, for example, supplements for luggage or the "plus" for choosing a seat. In case of cancellations or long delays in the flight, it must be taken into account that the company has the obligation to compensate the affected passengers.
