At least 100 holidaymakers who fell seriously ill at the Rixos Sungate hotel in Antalya, Turkey, are threatening legal action against TUI. Fourteen families tested positive for salmonella, E. coli and campylobacter after returning from the five-star resort, their lawyers said.
Dominic Brackley, from Leighton Buzzard, said his six-year-old daughter Vdara was so ill he feared she might die. “We put her in an ice bath to bring her temperature down. She wasn't drinking and we were really worried,” he said. Another guest reported that his party of 16 was diverted from the hotel due to the outbreak.
Anthony Laird, from Hornchurch, was hospitalised in Turkey and later at Queen's Hospital in Romford after falling ill. He described the local medical centre as “a merry-go-round” with people queuing with the same symptoms. TUI paid his medical bills, which he said was unusual.
Liam Garnett from Manchester said he saw food served uncovered, dirty cutlery, and cats in the restaurant. He claimed chefs were smoking in fire exits and not washing their hands. His family spent five days sick with stomach problems.
Solicitor Jatinder Paul of Irwin Mitchell said the cases appear to have a “very common source” and involve a “bacterial outbreak caused by low hygiene standards”. He said court proceedings would begin if the matter cannot be resolved amicably.
TUI initially denied the allegations, stating hotel tests showed no signs of food-related sickness. It suggested the symptoms were from a viral infection transmitted through pool use. Later, without confirming an outbreak, TUI said it was assisting guests with medical bills and reiterated that customer health and safety is its utmost priority.
