Direct Line reveals cost of dissatisfaction

Around £200 million has been paid out by British holidaymakers over the last two years to rectify holiday problems when abroad, according to new research from Direct Line Travel Insurance.

The company has also pointed out that many of these costs could be recouped for free using a travel insurance policy, which includes cover for legal proceedings.

Of the 37 per cent of Britons who have recently had their dream holiday ruined, 12 per cent have had to pay extra money for a different hotel or better restaurant.

The study also found that while 44 per cent of holidaymakers felt that they were misled by their brochure when booking, almost two thirds have experienced dirty rooms. A further 13 per cent found themselves in accommodation next to a building site, and the same amount felt that they were given unsafe facilities.

According to Direct Line's head of travel insurance, Chris Price, people generally spend months saving hundreds of pounds for their annual holiday but purchase it after seeing only photographs.

"If disaster strikes while they're abroad it can lead to an even bigger expense," continued Mr Price. "To minimise the risk of holidays being ruined we would advise people to thoroughly research their destination before going: read up on reviews of the hotel you have in mind, look at maps to ensure it is in your desired location and go on recommendations where you can."