The Fixer: Turkey travel worries

Have you been left out of pocket due to poor service or sharp practice? Do you have a money problem that won't go away?

It can seem impossible to get a fair result when you are battling a financial issue alone. But never fear! The AOL Money Fixer is here to help.

Dear Fixer,

My partner and booked a package holiday to Bodrum in Turkey some months ago. We are due to go early next month.

However, with all the political problems in the country, and the high number of terrorist attacks, we are getting more and more worried about how safe we will be while we are there.

We do not have travel insurance in place. Could we take out insurance and make a claim if we decide not to go? Or is there any other way we get our money back?

G Potter, Liverpool

Dear Ms Potter,


You cannot legally take out an insurance policy just so you can make a claim in this way, which is why it is always a good idea to take out travel insurance when you book a holiday in case you need to make a cancellation claim.

In this case, however, travel insurance would be unlikely to help you anyway as most policies exclude costs associated with political instability and terrorism.

When it comes to other ways to cancel and get your money back, meanwhile, it is worth pointing out that the Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) is not currently advising Britons to avoid travel to Turkey - unless they are planning to visit specific areas located along the border with Syria.

The company you booked your holiday with is not, therefore, obliged to offer you a refund if you cancel.

Bodrum is located a long way from the areas considered to be most dangerous. But if you feel unhappy about travelling there, it is worth contacting the tour operator you booked with to see if you can wangle a refund or change your destination.

I would also advise taking out travel cover should you decide to go ahead with your trip to Bodrum or another destination, as it is the best way to protect yourself and your belongings while you are away.

The Fixer

Whatever your financial problem, write to themoneyfixer@aim.com and The AOL Money Fixer will get on the case.

Turkey in Turmoil
Turkey in Turmoil

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