Turkey’s Trade Ministry urged consumers to review package‑tour contracts carefully as demand for early‑booking domestic and international trips increases.
The ministry said complaints often involve hotels not matching their advertised standards, service disruptions and inadequate delivery of promised amenities. Other complaints focus on tour cancellations, late refunds and operators calling off trips days before departure because of low participation.
Under consumer law, travelers may cancel a package‑tour contract at any time before the trip begins. Cancellations made at least 30 days in advance must be refunded in full, excluding mandatory taxes and fees. Operators may apply deductions for cancellations within 30 days if the contract allows it. In cases of force majeure, consumers are entitled to a full refund except for documented, non‑refundable third‑party costs.
The ministry said 33 companies were inspected last year over package‑tour practices, with 30 firms fined more than 38 million lira. Six companies were inspected in the first three months of this year, resulting in more than 8 million lira in fines.
Disputes under 186,000 lira fall under consumer arbitration boards, while higher‑value claims must be filed in consumer courts, where mediation is required before litigation.
The ministry also warned travelers booking online to verify the authenticity of hotel photos and logos, check whether agencies and hotels are officially registered, confirm star ratings through government websites and ensure sellers list full contact information. Consumers were advised to obtain a brochure or information form for any package‑tour or accommodation contract.