Plan ahead to avoid a holiday accommodation nightmare

Spring has sprung and the holiday season is well and truly upon us. I do hope you have a wonderful summer getaway!

- MARTYN JAMES

But what if your holiday turns out to be... a bit rubbish? Sadly, a lot can go wrong with hotels and apartments when you travel. So here's my guide to your rights and what to watch out for when booking.

ACCOMMODATION FAILS

It's every traveller’s nightmare. You turn up at the hotel to find a building site.

From major renovations to a half-finished new hotel, nothing kills the holiday vibe faster than a chorus of drills and clouds of brick dust.

If your holiday accommodation is not as advertised then you can demand a full or partial refund.

That includes unfinished or missing essentials, like restaurants, all-inclusive services or swimming pools and spas.

It's vital to speak up straight away though. Contact the holiday firm that you booked the hotel through and ask them to find you alternative accommodation of a similar standard.

You can potentially ask for a refund for the days you lost due to hotel switching and any downgrades.