Thank you, Computravel!

Dear eTNW I refer to my letter (Stranded Honeymooners) that I sent through which you published on your website. I would like to start by saying that I am most grateful to Computravel for a compassionate ex-gratia payment offered to me in partly relieving the financial and emotional burden placed on us as a result of this disastrous honeymoon that was booked through EIH (Exclusive Island Holidays) tour operator. We had planned and paid for our honeymoon and wedding ceremony in the Maldives at Kuredu Island well in advance. We had received our vouchers issued from EIH for our 16 night package at Kuredu. Three days before we were to leave on a Friday evening we got notice that this booking was no longer secure. Karen Carstens the director of EIH offered Taj Exotica as an alternative as it seemed they were responsible although did not acknowledge it. She personally booked our stay and confirmed it with a new set of vouchers. Taj Exotica emailed us that it was in order and that Karen had stated in writing that payment was being made to the island from EIH. This was never honoured after continually promising that payment would be made. Nine days into our stay Taj Exotica was unfortunately now forced to have to bring it to our attention that payment had still not come through after she had continually promised payment. We sadly were held liable by the island. My father very kindly gave me a loan in order to allow us to leave the island as soon as possible so that we would not run up any further costs that we could not afford. I would just like to explain that through my email to eTNW it was not my intention to tarnish Computravel’s reputation in this matter, as they were also victims of this catastrophe. I was only looking for advice on what we were to do in this very difficult situation. Computravel are doing all they can to recover whatever they may be able to. EIH had given documentary evidence that the resort had accepted the booking and the assurance of payment. I hope that EIH may realize that they ended up ruining our honeymoon while leaving a newlywed young couple with a huge debt. I hope that they will ultimately be liable. I thank Computravel for their generous offer in assisting us in our huge financial loss. Yours sincerely, Richard Gibbons