Holiday Woes - To pay or not to pay

charlottelbish

I was due to get married in November, however due to the pandemic, our wedding has been postponed. I've tried to contact Last Minute to see what our options are for our honeymoon which was booked for November to New York (considering our government has advised against non essential travel and US rules), however LM are stating I need to pay the final balance (which is due in October) and if the flight is cancelled, we will get a full refund. However, I'm concerned that the flight might not be cancelled (US citizens can still travel back to US) and then we have lost all our money. LM said it's not their rules, it's the airline and hotel policy rules. Airline have said I can move the flight, still waiting to hear back from hotel directly but LM have been no help whatsoever, I would have thought they would help what options available or try to help reschedule. They have said legal action will be taken if I don't pay the final balance (is this true?) and I'm just not sure what the best option is. I don't mind losing my deposit, but if I pay the balance and the flight still goes ahead (but we advised not to travel and also US still have their restrictions for UK nationals) then I feel like I won't be entitled to a refund. Anyone in a similar situation? 

[Deleted User]

You're subject to their cancellation terms.  They can certainly take legal action if you don't pay what is owed. 

Reschedule what you can and take the hit on what you can't.  Don't worry about other people in a similar situation - they can make their own arrangements.

[Deleted User]

yes, unfortunately if you don’t pay the balance the agents can take legal action because that is what you agreed to.  Up to you if you want to take the chance and call their bluff. 

I actually don’t think LH are being unhelpful as such. It is very much in the hands of the airlines to decide if a flight is going ahead.   Also in the hands of hotel whether they will refund or rebook you if they are open for business. 

If, however, you have booked a “package “ holiday and the hotel is closed for business at the time, or one flight cancelled even you should be entitled to a refund of all components.   Like everyone else, nobody can give definite answers on what will happen and agents will only tell you how it stands “today”.  Which in your case is, you owe them money!   Sorry, not being harsh just realistic.  

jon81uk

If it is a package then you should be better off as Ted says above.

Otherwise you will need to claim on travel insurance if you cannot get refunds.