A dream Christmas holiday to Turkey turned into a devastating nightmare for one UK family, leaving them severely ill and over £25,000 out of pocket. What was meant to be a luxurious escape became a story of filth, food poisoning, and financial ruin.
A Dream Holiday Turns Sour
Charlotte Bradbury, 32, booked what she believed would be the trip of a lifetime for her family through TUI. The promise of a five-star resort in Turkey was meant to deliver festive magic and unforgettable memories. However, upon arrival at the Rixos Premium Belek in Antalya, the dream instantly shattered.
The family was allegedly shown to a room that was far from the advertised luxury. Charlotte describes encountering 'black mould' on the walls, 'dirty bedding', and a general state of filth that made the room uninhabitable.
Illness and Abandonment
The situation rapidly deteriorated from bad to worse. Charlotte claims the entire family, including her young children, fell violently ill with suspected food poisoning. 'We were all being sick,' she reported, highlighting the sheer misery of their experience.
Despite pleading with TUI representatives for help, reassurances, or a change of accommodation, the family felt utterly abandoned. Their complaints about the unacceptable conditions and their worsening health were, they claim, met with indifference.
A Financial Catastrophe
Forced to take matters into their own hands, the Bradbury family made the desperate decision to cut their losses and flee the resort. They booked into a clean hotel at their own expense and paid for emergency flights back to the UK.
The total financial impact of the disastrous trip has been crippling, amounting to a staggering £25,000. This includes the lost cost of the original holiday and the thousands spent on emergency accommodation and flights.
Seeking Justice
Now back home, the family is left dealing with the aftermath of the ordeal and is demanding answers and compensation from TUI. A spokesperson for the travel giant stated they are investigating the claims but are 'disappointed to hear this account' as they 'expect all our hotels to maintain high standards'.
This story serves as a stark warning for British holidaymakers seeking winter sun, emphasising the importance of thorough research and knowing your rights when a long-awaited holiday goes horribly wrong.
