What should have been idyllic vacations turned into health ordeals for multiple tourists at the Riu Palace Santa Maria, a five-star resort in Cape Verde, an archipelago and island country off West Africa. Several holidaymakers have joined a legal claim against the resort after experiencing severe food poisoning and ongoing health issues, according to an article in the Independent.
Among the affected guests is Graham Lamont, a 59-year-old training manager from Glasgow. What was meant to be a celebratory family trip following his daughter’s high school graduation became a nightmare when Graham and his wife Josephine fell ill with severe stomach cramps and diarrhea. Months after their May vacation, Graham is still under medical care and has lost over 14 pounds in weight.
Another claimant, Sarah Tootell, a 44-year-old widow from Bury, traveled to Cape Verde to scatter her late husband’s ashes. Her poignant trip was marred when she contracted shigella, a serious form of food poisoning, confirmed by her doctor upon return. Sarah continues to struggle with nausea and eating difficulties weeks after her holiday.
Both families booked their trips through the same holiday provider, opting for what they believed would be luxurious, worry-free vacations. Instead, they encountered concerning hygiene practices at the resort, including the presence of animals near food areas, flies on uncovered dishes, and the reuse of leftover food in different meals.
The issue appears to be widespread and recurring. According to reports, over 300 cases of illness have been linked to the Riu Palace Santa Maria since 2022. This pattern of repeated outbreaks has raised serious questions about the resort’s food safety protocols and the holiday company’s decision to continue sending guests there despite ongoing problems.
A lawyer representing the claimants, expressed concern over the similar experiences reported by multiple clients. “Our clients understandably have many questions of how they came to be so ill and why people are still being sent to the resort, when based on what we’re seeing, lessons don’t appear to have been learned from previous illness outbreaks among guests.”
While potential risks associated with all-inclusive resorts always exist, these seemingly related incidents are a cautionary tale for travelers, emphasizing the need to research destinations thoroughly and consider health precautions even when booking luxury accommodations.
Commenting on this story, one national food safety attorney said, “Unfortunately, what should have been dream vacations turned into ongoing nightmares for these travelers. Although never a guarantee, thoroughly reading reviews from past visitors may help to avoid potential problems.”
