ADVICE

THIS is such a terribly sad event and clearly it would be wrong to speculate on what the causes of death were and who, if anyone, is to blame.

Once the facts are established, then Thomas Cook must take any appropriate action. It did the right thing in moving guests out of the hotel as a precautionary measure.

Steigenberger is owned by Deutsche Hospitality, a highly reputable German firm. I have stayed at another one in Egypt which was scrupulously clean and well run.

But it only takes one kitchen employee with poor personal hygiene to put guests at risk.

There are ways to avoid getting ill in hot countries. Do not eat from a poorly equipped buffet. If the food has been sat out for a long period, ask for something fresh.

Check whether the swimming pool is clean and sanitary. Look around outside eating areas for animals, birds or insects. If there is a lot of activity, consider eating meals inside.

And if you do get sick, report your illness to the hotel and holiday rep.

Clare Campbell, travel law expert at Leigh Day, advises getting evidence if possible, such as photos of, say, undercooked food. Take the names and contact details of other tourists who are sick or can act as witnesses.

Seek medical assistance following any injury or illness, and ask for a copy of your records. Never go on holiday without travel insurance.

If you send original documents to the tour operator always keep a copy and don’t feel pressured into signing anything you don’t understand.

Don’t accept any offers of compensation at your resort without obtaining independent legal advice.

But remember, making fake compensation claims is fraud. There have been instances of guilty holidaymakers being fined or jailed.