Affiliated Sites - terms and conditions

Posted on 19/09/2021 10:08 by Peteno8

Having been a member of the Club for over 50 years I have made almost exclusive use of the Club owned sites rarely using Affiliated ones. However I decided to visit a AS site in Cambridgeshire. I am familiar with the terms and conditions of the Club relating to payment and cancellation. This site wanted full payment up front, not a problem. But, I discovered, it also has a draconian or some might say hard nosed commercial cancellation policy. Because of a medical emergency requiring a trip to local A & E department in the middle of the night I decided to cut short my holiday and return home. I informed the Affiliated site 3 days before my arrival date to be told you have cancelled within 14 days so you forfeit the payment, There was not even a hint of sympathy or empathy  just a 'that's it attitude'. Whereas I appreciate it is my problem I do wonder at the cost implications for  a large family or party booking, for say a week or a fortnight, The club site wardens, where I was staying, were most sympathetic even through they carried out the club policy as I left that one early to.

So what have I learned from this experience - to appreciate the Club we are so fond of and to avoided Affiliated Sites unless I can be sure not to have an emergency within 14 days of arrival - not so easy in your late 70's.

As they say in the commercial world 'Caveat Emptor' - let the buyer beware!!!!

 

Posted on 19/09/2021 13:49 by eurortraveller

Peteno8,  Sorry to read of your night time misadventure. Are you OK now?

But don’t give up on affiliated sites, privately owned sites, independent sites and CLs - there’s so much choice out there. But in case of future emergencies buy an annual travel insurance - firms like Staysure sell them for UK only, for all Europe, or for Worldwide - just as you wish.

Posted on 19/09/2021 11:48 by Takethedogalong

Agree, we use a lot of AS Sites, and know they are different in many ways. We completely accept the difference in terms and conditions. It’s harsh in the OP’s case, as of course a medical emergency of any kind can mean a loss on fees paid, but then holiday insurance might become prudent in the future. It’s usually standard practice for cottage and hotel bookings, even in UK.

There appears little doubt now that the Club is willing to give up on one of its USP’s, and is going down the route of deposits upfront. As yet, Members remain in ignorance of whether or not deposits might be refunded within a given timescale, with proof of an emergency. I for one doubt it, I think deposits will be retained. I wouldn’t be surprised if the Club actually started selling holiday insurance for UK visits as well.
The Club blinkers are coming off, and the commercial enterprise whip is in hand, all we need now is details of the runners and riders, and the date of the big race start. 

Posted on 19/09/2021 14:25 by Navigateur

If The Club is really thinking about it they will offer cancellation insurance along with each new style booking. Something like the present terms for a mere £xx additional fee per booking.

Posted on 20/09/2021 09:02 by young thomas

Agreed, while onsite at one of our favourite commercials, we had to move a subsequent booking slightly. All done in the office with a smile. Took about 1 minute. No hint of any 'punishment'.

back there again for New Year.

Posted on 20/09/2021 08:24 by peedee

Never fear Peteno8, it is not all as bad as some would have you believe, not all commercial sites have such draconian terms and are so hard nosed. Just check out the term before you make a commitment to avoid the types you have encountered.

peedee