Valerie and David Hulme’s anticipated £5,000 holiday to celebrate Valerie’s 60th birthday in Goa, India, turned into a nightmare. The couple flew out for a two-week, all-inclusive vacation but were met with sleepless nights and restricted access to facilities due to weddings and the hotel owner’s birthday celebrations. The couple arrived at the beachfront resort only to be disturbed by loud banging noises at 1am, as hotel staff prepared for a wedding near their room. The disruption continued for three consecutive nights, lasting from 1am to 8am, leaving the couple exhausted and unable to enjoy their stay.
Initially hesitant to complain, Valerie was dismayed to find that the noise persisted, with most of the pool area off-limits due to wedding preparations. Photographs taken show the wedding guests congregating by the pool, while Valerie and David were relegated to their room’s balcony due to lack of space. The couple felt frustrated as the celebrations continued for three days, impacting their peace and relaxation during the holiday. Additionally, the pool area was closed again for the owner’s birthday party, compounding the couple’s disappointment.
Despite attempts by the hotel to compensate, offering a taxi to the airport and a free meal at the restaurant, Valerie found the gesture inadequate for the price they paid and the holiday experience they had. The couple, who have been loyal customers of TUI for ten years, were unimpressed by the £200 compensation offered, deeming it insulting considering the cost of their trip. Feeling let down by the lack of information on private events at the resort, the couple decided never to travel with TUI again.
After relocating to a different hotel in South Goa for the remaining week of their holiday, the couple encountered further challenges, feeling uncomfortable with the constant influx of people using the facilities, including a timeshare office located near the pool. This continual disturbance created a sense of unease for Valerie, who had hoped for a more tranquil and enjoyable holiday experience. Despite their long-standing relationship with TUI, the Hulmes were left dissatisfied and disillusioned by their holiday ordeal.
Valerie’s decision to decline the compensation offered by TUI reflects the couple’s disappointment with the handling of their complaints and the overall quality of their holiday experience. The lack of transparency regarding private events at the resort and the subsequent disruptions faced by the Hulmes highlight the importance of clear communication and customer satisfaction in the travel industry. As the couple reflects on their thwarted celebratory trip to Goa, their story serves as a cautionary tale for holidaymakers seeking a peaceful and relaxing getaway.