Text / Compiled and reported by the MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team
Many independent travelers use hotel booking websites to find deals and compare prices. Agoda, Booking.com, Expedia, and Hotels.com are among the international platforms frequently used by travelers. However, if you need to cancel your reservation due to personal reasons, weather, political issues, or other unexpected circumstances, you may be charged a cancellation fee, and it can be very difficult to appeal to the service provider. In such cases, travelers’ rights are discounted just as much as the room rates.
International booking websites do not have service centers in Taiwan, so consumers often find themselves with nowhere to turn when disputes arise. (Image source / fringesct)
According to consumer protection officials, between 2014 and July 2016, there were a total of 164 complaints related to bookings made through the four major international hotel booking websites. Of these, 98 cases involved disputes over cancellation fees. Other issues included orders being unilaterally canceled by providers, incorrect pricing on the websites, duplicate charges, and disputes over lowest price guarantees.
Travelers should carefully read the website’s policies on fees and cancellations to protect their own rights. (Image source / stocksnap)
Regarding pricing, apart from Booking.com, which displays room rates inclusive of tax, the other three booking websites may not include taxes and service fees in their listed prices. Cancellation policies also vary. For example, Agoda charges a $15 fee for cancellations. Travelers should carefully read the website’s fee and cancellation policies to protect their own rights.
Remember to read the relevant terms carefully before making a reservation, so your trip can go more smoothly. (Image source / stocksnap)
Consumer protection officials remind travelers that if you book domestic accommodation through an international booking website and a dispute arises, you can file a complaint with the domestic lodging operator. However, if the issue involves a third-party booking for an overseas hotel, it is currently difficult to lodge an effective complaint against the website. Moreover, since these booking websites do not have service centers in Taiwan, travelers may find themselves with nowhere to turn. It is advised to read the relevant terms carefully before making a reservation, so your trip can go more smoothly.