A German tourist has been awarded almost €1,000 after struggling to find sunloungers for himself and his family during a holiday on the Greek island of Kos. The man, who paid more than €7,000 for the trip in 2024, told the Hanover district court that despite waking up early each morning to search, he could never secure loungers due to other guests reserving them with towels.
The court ruled last month that the family of four was entitled to €986.70 in compensation, finding the German tour operator responsible. The man had already received a partial refund from the hotel but pursued further action, arguing that neither the hotel nor the operator enforced rules against 'towel blocking'. He said his children were forced to lie on the concrete.
The case highlights the so-called 'towel wars' common at European resorts. The judge stated that while holidaymakers accept limited availability, the tour operator must ensure a reasonable ratio of sunbeds to guests. The operator was held liable under strict German package travel laws, which treat the hotel as an agent.
The court noted that holidaymakers should not have to remove others' towels, and the tour operator is obliged to prevent such conflicts. No law specifically governs towel reservations, but general etiquette deems them unacceptable, with some hotels removing towels after 30–60 minutes.
