By law you are entitled to reasonably suitable accommodation, which must meet certain standards. If it is not, then you may be entitled to claim compensation (including some compensation to reflect your loss of enjoyment of the holiday). You should not delay in making your complaint as many brochures state that a complaint should be made to the tour operator within a few weeks of the holiday.

If you were on a Package Holiday, the Tour Operator is bound by the Package Travel Regulations and in particular sections 4-6. These oblige the Tour Operator to supply exactly what was brochured and if they do not, provided that you have sustained a loss or can show the problems it has caused you may be entitled to compensation.

Alternatively, you may have rights under the Sale of Goods and Supply of Services Act 1980 or potentially a claim for misrepresentation.

Airlines are well regulated. If you are travelling to or from Europe the airline will be bound by the Denied Boarding Regulations (EU 261/2004). Under these regulations they are bound to provide you with refreshments, accommodation and telephone calls if your delays are severe enough. The airline should also supply you with a notice to inform you what you are entitled to. The same regulations deal with flight cancellation and denied boarding. You should bear in mind that it is difficult to qualify for compensation because there are many reasons that a flight cannot operate ranging from security to safety issues.

If you are booked on a Package Holiday you are protected by the Package Travel Regulations. They provide protection in these circumstances. They must offer you a full and immediate refund or an alternative holiday or equal or higher value, or refund the difference if appropriate.

Many holiday companies have a specific clause in their terms and conditions to this effect too.

The best thing to do is get in touch with us when you get back. It is important that the solicitor you instruct knows this area of law because it is quite specialised. We will advise you whether you have a claim in this country or whether you need to pursue a claim abroad. If you do need to pursue a claim abroad then we will arrange for lawyers in that country to act on your behalf, but we will still maintain control of the matter. This way you get our expertise and also local expertise. Over the years we have developed close working relationships with law firms all over the world who understand the need for them to provide us with an excellent quality of service so that we in turn can provide you with an excellent service.

However, you should not delay in contacting us as some countries have rules where you have to notify the other side of your claim within a matter of months.