British holidaymakers are feeling increasingly let down by the standards of their trips and are launching complaints in record numbers, a new survey suggests.
Over the past three years, one in 10 British tourists have voiced their disapproval to holiday companies, according to a study by Which?
However, despite thousands complaining to travel operators, fewer than half are left satisfied by the response given for holiday failings. One-third of those polled found it difficult to complain, while half said they felt they had been dealt with dismissively by the company or person to whom they complained.
In response, 8% are now considering, or have already launched, legal action in order to get their voices heard.
“There are people who turn up at their hotel and find half the services advertised aren't there, or that it's been advertised as a five star hotel when it's actually only got two stars," says Joanne Lezemore of Which?
To help turn the tide for disgruntled holidaymakers, advice on how to properly complain has now been released.
Upset customers have been asked to raise any problems as quickly as possible with holiday representatives, obtain and make copies of complaint forms, take photographs as evidence of poor standards and ask for compensation to cover any loss of enjoyment or other financial upsets.
"If you do find yourself in the position of having to make a complaint, then do so as soon as the issue arises, always putting the complaint in writing,” added Which? Chief Executive Peter Vicary-Smith.
"Don't be fobbed off by your holiday company - a bit of persistence can get you the compensation you deserve."