Holidays in Italy and Spain during drought: Holidaymakers have this right

Southern Europe is in a state of emergency. In many holiday countries there is extreme drought and lack of water. In countries such as Spain, France or Italy, which are particularly hard hit, there are already restrictions on water consumption in some regions. But what does that mean for vacationers?

In Barcelona and some parts of Catalonia already have a water limit: no one can fill their private pool with a maximum of 230 liters per day and person. Among other things, the irrigation of public and private green spaces and the cleaning of streets with drinking water are prohibited. Read about this: Drought in Spain: no water from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m

In the summer, there could also be restrictions for hotels in the event of extreme drought. Tourists could then empty out on vacation in Italy or Spain Pools stand. have a shower could only be shortened. But what legal entitlement do travelers have if no pool is available at short notice? Lawyer Malte Hotes, who specializes in travel law, answers the most important questions.

Drought: what claims do vacationers have if the pool or shower cannot be used?

“In case of a package tour If a pool or a shower fails, there is a lack of travel,” says Malte Hotes. It is important that every holidaymaker reports the defect directly to the travel agent. This can be done both in the tour operator’s app and by e-mail Hotel staff is not enough, explains Hotes.

If the Pool empty or the Shower cannot be used, this is not just considered a “mere inconvenience”. According to Hotes, vacationers could be entitled to compensation in the form of a reduction in the price of the trip. The amount depends on the extent of the impairment.

Can the holiday be canceled in extreme heat?

Here, too, it depends on whether this travel shortcomings develop. “If the impairment is significant, the traveler can withdraw from the trip or alternatively cancel the trip,” says lawyer Malte Hotes. This could give rise to a claim for a full or partial refund of the travel price.

However, heat in itself is not a travel defect that entitles the holidaymaker to break off the stay. “This should only be the case if the special heat would qualify as an unavoidable extraordinary circumstance,” says Hotes.

Also read: Holiday apartments in Venice should be restricted

Do travel providers have to inform about heat restrictions in advance?

Yes. If travel providers are aware of the travel deficiencies, the travel provider must inform its customers as a matter of principle, says the specialist. This includes any restrictions drought in vacation areas.

Can holidaymakers receive compensation for lost holiday enjoyment?

Travel law expert Hotes does not believe that holidaymakers have a right here. Especially not when it comes to official ones arrangements that forbid the hotels to fill up their pools, for example.

Also read: Drought prospects: What holidaymakers can expect in Spain

Self-selected hotel or holiday apartment: What applies?

Ob vacationersPeople who book their accommodation such as a hotel or holiday home themselves are also entitled to a price reduction, depending on the holiday country. “Here you should contact a lawyer in the respective country,” recommends Hotes.

So far it says from the drought countries from the official side that hotels do not have to fear any restrictions. Pools should continue to be filled, showers should continue to be possible. However, Spain is expecting a new visitor record in 2023, with extreme temperatures at the same time. (os)

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