A study of travel disputes from the legal viewpoint

Abstract

Recently, due to economic growth, the people of Taiwan have become increasingly attentive to the quality of life. Engaging in leisure, as opposed to working, is one way of enjoying life and the first choice for many Taiwanese is to travel. Domestically and overseas, a dramatic rise in the number of tourists is evident during the holidays, and tourist businesses are flourishing. Even so, travel disputes are common, largely because of misunderstandings between travel agents and consumers. The consumer, however, is the disadvantaged party, since, having paid for the trip, or having paid a deposit, he or she is subject to the agency fulfilling its part of the agreement. When a consumer complains, the complaint may go unanswered, and it is difficult for the consumer to know what is available by way of legal redress. This study aims to provide consumers with ways of dealing with travel disputes, using real examples and legal explanations. Its purpose is to help consumers navigate the difficult waters of travel complaints, so that they can enjoy their trip knowing that they will receive the service they paid for.

Key words: leisure activity, travel dispute, tourism and recreation