Ever had a day that just doesn’t go your way? Stuart Sommerville did, and it involved a 12-hour, 512-mile round trip from Scotland to Wales, all for nothing! Stuart, a journalist, made the long drive from Biggar to the Travelodge in Llandudno, keen to attend the 80th anniversary of the Victory over Japan parade. It was more than just an event for Stuart; his family roots run deep in Llandudno with a cherished image of his mother from VE Day and his grandfather honoured in the Home Front museum there.
But his plans hit a snag when he arrived at the hotel, only to find his room had been double-booked. Despite being a regular visitor and having booked his room in advance, he was left with no option but to turn back after a fruitless search for alternative accommodation in a town buzzing with summer visitors. Travelodge did offer him a refund, and an alternative room in Colwyn Bay, but Stuart, frustrated and tired, declined.
The whole debacle left Stuart on the road back to Scotland by nightfall, with a detour through Wigan due to M6 closures. His wife, Caroline, voiced her dismay online, sparking offers of help that came too late.
Though Stuart’s love for Llandudno remains undiminished, this experience put a damper on his latest visit. Travelodge has since apologised and refunded him, even though the incident has left a bitter taste.
Have you ever had a travel mishap like Stuart’s? Share your stories or just drop a 🛣️ to show your road trip sympathy! 🚗💨