Viva Azteca Hotel, Mexican holiday travel claim settled
Background
06/06/2006
Guests at the Viva Azteca Hotel, Mexico reported a series of health and hygiene problems during the summer of 2003. Holidaymakers were struck down with gastric illness following a serious breach of quality standards. Food in the self-service restaurant was left uncovered and was often undercooked; animals including lizards, cats, flies and birds were seen in the eating area; and crockery & cutlery was frequently dirty. There were also complaints about the state of the swimming pool as litter was seen floating in it.
At one point so many people were taken ill the hotel was barely able to cope.
Action
Despite voicing their concerns many holidaymakers found the tour representatives unhelpful. Lesley Rose and her husband Alan both became ill during their holiday to celebrate their 25th wedding anniversary. Mrs Rose realised the seriousness of the outbreak when she saw how many other guests were complaining to the reps in the foyer.
Back in the UK 127 holidaymakers contacted Irwin Mitchell to complain about the appalling standards in the hotel, and the lack of assistance from UK tour operator My Travel. We brought a group legal action on behalf of the holidaymakers against My Travel.
Settlement
Mr and Mrs Rose from Ferryhill, County Durham have now reached the end of their two-year legal battle for compensation. The couple have been awarded approximately £7,000 damages.
The majority of the other holidaymakers have now also agreed settlements with My Travel, although there are some cases where it has not yet been possible to agree the level of compensation and therefore court proceedings will follow.
Irwin Mitchell lawyer, Suki Chhokar, specialises in legal cases involving overseas travel claims and illness. Dealing with this case he outlined the severity of vomiting, diarrhoea and severe stomach cramps suffered by the victims. Although many have now fully recovered, around ten people were so badly affected that medical experts believe they will never make a full recovery.
Can we help you? If you think you or someone you know has a claim, visit our accidents and illness abroad section..