How to get a refund from a hotel in Portugal

Julesbda

Life__Goes__On said:

What method of payment did you use?

Method of payment is Mastercard - US Dollar card . 

Julesbda

Alan_Bowen said:

Now we have some facts, if you used a UK based credit or debit card, ask for a chargeback, if the card is a US or Bermuda card then that law would apply which none of us I suspect are experts. I know there is the Fair Credit Act in the US which allows for refunds within 120 days of making payment for services that are not delivered, you would have to argue that the promise of a free cancellation was the service not delivered in this case. But you suggest Mastercard has already refused, see if there is an appeal procedure as I do not see any other way out for you. 

 Thanks , Yes we paid over 4 months ago so seem to be out of luck . I was surprised that the credit card company wouldn't get involved as clearly they are not giving the service I paid for . I will try the appeal procedure . Thanks very much . 

Julesbda

dgp1000 said:

In Italy special legislation has been passed and you are only entitled to a voucher. It’s possible the Portuguese Government has done the same in order to protect their hospitality industry. After all the hotels are open and it’s not their fault you can’t get there. You may find a ‘force majeure’ clause in the booking conditions you could try.

dgp1000 said:

In Italy special legislation has been passed and you are only entitled to a voucher. It’s possible the Portuguese Government has done the same in order to protect their hospitality industry. After all the hotels are open and it’s not their fault you can’t get there. You may find a ‘force majeure’ clause in the booking conditions you could try.

Thanks I will have a look . They seem to be simply saying they are having a hard time with covid 19 etc and all suffering which of course we all are sadly . They hasn't mentioned yet any law similar to Italy so unless they pay up I will have a voucher I can use in 2 years time ( we have something else next year ) and hope I get my 7,000 USD worth of hotel in 2022 !! … thanks for your help . much appreciated . 

missile

I would pursue your card company. 

Julesbda

missile said:

I would pursue your card company. 

 I will try again - many thanks . 

macman

You need to press for more details. Ask your card company why they declined. Under what procedure did you ask them? Is there the equivalent of chargeback or S75 available in Bermuda?
Have you made a formal demand to the hotel for repayment? Basically in the form of an LBA, quoting the 30 day clause, and giving them 7 days to refund you, or legal action will commence without further notice?
You can pursue both of these solutions simultaneously.