Vacations cancelled for many as another UK Travel Firm collapses

Friday the 13th struck British wanderlust this year, as holiday hopes were dashed with the sudden collapse of Great Little Escapes, a Berkshire-based travel firm. The company, which also operated under names like Your Holidays, Tunisia First, and TheCaribbean.com, ceased trading and officially lost its ATOL licence on Friday 13 June, as confirmed by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).

Around 141 customers are directly affected, but industry sources warn the true figure could stretch further into the hundreds. The timing could hardly be worse, with families across the UK preparing for their long-anticipated summer getaways.

The collapse of Great Little Escapes is just the latest in a string of travel industry casualties. Jetline Travel, a cruise holiday specialist, entered administration in March, while Balkan Holidays, a long-standing UK operator, shuttered in April, cancelling all future trips and leaving many awaiting refunds. Together, the three firms’ downfall in as many months has disrupted thousands of travel plans.

What affected holidaymakers should do:

Wait for guidance – The CAA advises customers not to submit refund claims just yet.
Check ATOL cover – Bookings involving flights are likely protected.
Consult your agent – Travel agents are being asked to await direction from the Air Travel Trust.
Use Section 75 if eligible – Credit card payments may qualify for reimbursement.
Review insurance – Check if your policy covers insolvency-related disruptions.

With sunshine on the horizon and travel excitement building, the collapse of another holiday provider is a sharp reminder to book carefully. As this unlucky Friday the 13th proved, not even holiday dreams are immune to bad omens.