Illness Outbreaks at the Riu Palace Hotel in Santa Maria, Cape Verde

At Holiday Claims Bureau, we have been contacted by a number of holidaymakers who fell seriously ill after staying at the Riu Palace Hotel in Santa Maria, Cape Verde. Recurring outbreaks of holiday sickness have raised major concerns about hygiene at the resort, and we believe it is important to ensure holidaymakers are fully informed of the risks before booking. We are committed to helping those affected pursue a holiday sickness claim and secure the compensation they deserve.

What We Know About the Holiday Sickness Outbreaks

We have received reports from many holidaymakers who experienced severe illness during their stay, with symptoms including vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach cramps, and flu-like conditions. In 2022 alone, an estimated 350 guests fell ill while staying at the hotel. Tragically, in one case, a mother of two lost her life when a pre-existing condition was worsened by illness she contracted during her December stay. Her husband also became unwell on the same trip.

Some of our clients pursuing holiday sickness claims have been diagnosed with salmonella and campylobacter infections. Others have reported ear infections and highlighted unacceptable hygiene practices at the hotel.

We suspect these infections may have been caused by:

• Contaminated food or undercooked meals served at the hotel buffet

• Unsafe or untreated drinking water

• Exposure to unhygienic facilities, such as bathrooms and kitchens

What To Do If You Fall Ill Abroad

If you became unwell during your stay at the Riu Palace Hotel, Cape Verde, and you believe your Tour Operator failed in its duty of care, we can help you make a holiday sickness claim on a no-win, no-fee basis.

To give your claim the best chance of success, we recommend you take the following steps:

1. Seek medical attention straight away.

2. Report your illness to your Tour Representative and/or Tour Operator and request a copy of the report.

3. Document hygiene concerns at the hotel with photos or notes.

4. Keep receipts for any expenses related to your illness.

5. Retain all medical notes or records.

6. Stay in touch with other affected guests who experienced similar symptoms.

7. Contact us quickly for expert legal advice.

Our Commitment to Holidaymakers

We understand just how devastating a ruined holiday can be. As specialists in holiday sickness claims, we work tirelessly to help families secure the compensation they deserve and hold negligent parties accountable.

The shocking reports of illness at the Riu Palace Hotel raise serious questions about hygiene and safety practices. We believe hotels must put guest safety first, and we are committed to ensuring that proper standards are upheld across the travel industry.

Alongside representing our clients, we also push for broader change by working with regulatory bodies. We campaign for stricter inspections, clearer standards, and better transparency across holiday providers — because we want safer holidays for everyone.

Contact Us About Your Holiday Sickness Claim

If your holiday was ruined by illness at the Riu Palace Hotel in Cape Verde or elsewhere, we are here to help you. Our expert solicitors will guide you through the process of making a holiday sickness claim and support you every step of the way.

Contact us today by filling out our online form or calling 0161 813 2131 to speak to one of our specialist holiday sickness solicitors.