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In 2025, Holiday Claims Bureau reported that it was representing British holidaymakers in claims for bed bug bites on holiday after they returned from RIU Touareg in Boa Vista, Cape Verde. Guest accounts described painful bites, disrupted family stays and concerns about the hotel’s response.
What Guests Reported on TripAdvisor
The report included these two accounts from TripAdvisor reviewers:
Sylvia’s Account: Bites and a Room Move
Sylvia, who travelled with her two-year-old son, reported bites across her arms and what she described as an allergic reaction. She said she woke during the night to see a bed bug feeding on her, killed it and took it to reception in a tissue.
Although she was moved to another room, Sylvia felt that the response had not resolved the problem. She described spray treatments as temporary and ineffective.
Martin H’s Account: Photos and the Hotel’s Response
In a review posted in April 2025, Martin H reported that his family had suffered bed bug bites. He said they photographed numerous insects on the bed’s headboard.
According to Martin, nothing had been done when the family returned that evening. He also said he had spoken to other guests experiencing similar problems.
Holiday Claims Bureau’s 2025 Update
During 2025, HCB reported increasing complaints about painful bites, allergic reactions, room conditions and the response to pest problems. Its September update said enquiries had continued into August and that the team was helping affected holidaymakers pursue claims.
For broader information about claims in the destination, see our information on Cape Verde holiday claims.
What to Keep If Your Stay Was Affected
If you experienced a similar problem, keep a clear record of your own stay:
- Booking details: travel dates, accommodation name and room number.
- Photos or videos: what you found in the room and any visible bites.
- Your complaint: messages to the hotel or travel provider, the response and details of any room move.
- Treatment and costs: medical notes, prescriptions and receipts you already have.
Our Bed Bug Evidence Checklist and Timeline provides a place to organise these details. You can ask for an assessment without having every item.
Separate Bed Bug Claims With Published Outcomes
HCB has also published these separate outcomes from cases at other hotels in Tenerife:
- Kate Salter’s £3,500 bed bug settlement after her Tenerife holiday.
- Emma and John’s £4,000 Jet2 bed bug claim: £2,000 each following their Tenerife holiday.
Each result reflects that client’s circumstances. It is not a promised payout for another claim.
For information about eligibility, evidence and how to request an assessment, read about compensation for bed bug bites on holiday.
