Expedia slated for holiday bookings, despite lockdown
SNP Westminster leader takes aim at travel firm
Last updated 30th Apr 2020
Travel firm Expedia is facing criticism for still taking holiday bookings despite the lockdown and government advice against non-essential travel.
Ian Blackford MP contacted Expedia after concerns were raised with him by a hotel in his Highland constituency which continues to receive bookings from tourists through the website.
The SNP Westminster Leader said the travel website's policy of continuing to take bookings - and leaving it to hoteliers to determine on the arrival of the guest whether they had a legitimate reason for travel - was completely unacceptable.
Mr Blackford said that while accommodation should be available for essential workers, hotels are concerned that Expedia are allowing bookings, leaving the hotelier to Police the situation.
Other travel websites such as Airbnb and Booking.com have suspended all holiday rentals following a campaign led by Mr Blackford and significant pressure on the companies from SNP MPs and MSPs.
Mr Blackford's repeatedly warned against unnecessary travel, but particularly to tourists travelling to communities where there are geographical pressures.
Commenting, Ian Blackford MP said: "To advertise and let holiday properties during the lockdown is not only irresponsible, it is dangerous - it is putting lives at risk.
"Tourists being able to make a booking and turn up at a hotel is not good enough. This is not good corporate practice and Expedia must stop taking bookings on their platform for the period of the lockdown.
"A Highland hotel has told me how worried they are about the holiday bookings they continue to receive from Expedia, bringing holidaymakers to a rural community despite the threat of Covid-19.
"Expedia has told me they will continue to take bookings and allow the hotelier to determine on the arrival of the guest whether they have a legitimate reason for travel. This is not acceptable. Whilst it is right that accommodation is available for essential workers, hotels offering such facilities are themselves concerned that Expedia are allowing bookings to be made that the hotelier has to police.
"Travelling to a rural area not only increases the risk of infection for local people, but it puts pressure on local amenities and healthcare.
"What is important is that we save lives - tourism will return when it is safe to welcome people. The inaction by Expedia to suspend all bookings is reckless and they must reconsider their position."
We've contacted Expedia for a response.
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