Hotel booking in Spain

Janster1

So this is my scenario - Unable to now go to Spain, hotel refusing to refund, Hotels.com refusing to refund albeit their is a clear statement on their website that 'if the destination is inaccessible we will offer you a full refund or voucher to use at any hotel on our website' (which I have quoted and they keep ignoring). Credit card won't do a charge-back because the hotel have not cancelled (is that right?!), insurance have refused advising us to pursue it with Hotels.com - isn't this what the insurance is for, when we have tried everything else?!!!  We still have Ryanair flights to sort out too so not holding much hope on that one.

bradders1983

The destination isnt inaccessable though. Flights are still going, the reasons why you are choosing not to go on one is absolutely nothing to do with the hotel.

bagand96

Unfortunately, whilst the UK FCO travel advice is not your fault, it's not the fault of the hotel in Spain, or hotels.com either. I can see you don't want to accept a loss, but the hotel will feel the same. 

The full quote from hotels.com is:

B. If you’ve made a non-refundable booking and would like to change or cancel it;

1. No cancellation fee will apply if your booking is in a destination that is considered inaccessible. In that case, we’ll offer you either a full refund or a hotel voucher to be used on our selection of hotel choices. However, you must cancel at least 24hrs before your arrival date.
2. Standard cancellation policy will apply if the destination is considered open for travel and you have chosen to change or cancel your booking for other reasons.

As above, Spain is open for travel. "Considered inaccessible" is a very vague term and open to interpretation. 

Unfortunately this is one of the risks of booking non-package, and choosing a non-refundable hotel rate. 

All that said, I think your insurance company are fobbing you off. Have a read of your policy, if you have cancellation cover for FCO Advice, then they should allow a claim. 

You'll be in the same situation with the Ryanair flights. If they operate, you won't be entitled to a refund. 

rosiesposies

agree with above - the hotel is accessible. you cannot or will not travel. nothing to do with the hotel. 

macman

You are not 'unable to travel'. Bluntly, it's 'disinclination to travel'. As pointed out above, you can only use the insurance route if it allows cancellation on grounds of an FCO advisory for Spain, so check your policy.