Qing C.
Google
1/5 – Unacceptable Experience for Business Class Passengers via Turkish Airlines Layover Program
This was one of the most frustrating and poorly handled travel experiences I’ve had, especially considering we were flying business class and booked our hotel through Turkish Airlines’ official layover program.
On New Year’s Eve, Turkish Airlines changed our hotel reservation from a centrally located hotel in the heart of Istanbul to a hotel in a non-tourist area, without providing any notification whatsoever. We only became aware of this upon arriving at Sofitel Istanbul Taksim.
What is particularly concerning is that we were issued a hotel reservation voucher by Turkish Airlines clearly confirming Sofitel Istanbul Taksim as our hotel, including the exact address. However, upon arrival, the Sofitel front desk informed us that they had never received our reservation. The staff also mentioned that this was not an isolated case, and that they had experienced multiple similar incidents involving Turkish Airlines bookings.
To make matters even more confusing, the Sofitel staff quickly discovered that our reservation had instead been made at one of Sofitel’s other hotels, which was both unexpected and unexplained, given what was clearly stated on our airline-issued voucher.
After discovering the situation on New Year’s Eve, we contacted Turkish Airlines by phone. Although we were able to speak with a representative, he stated that he could not assist with hotel reservation matters and directed us to submit an online feedback form, with a stated response time of 2–7 business days, despite the immediate nature of the problem.
On New Year’s Day, Turkish Airlines contacted us requesting our travel information. We promptly provided all requested details. However, after returning to the United States on January 3, no further response or resolution has been provided.
The lack of communication, accountability, and follow-through turned what should have been a smooth and premium layover experience into a stressful and disappointing one. I would strongly encourage others to think twice before doing business with Turkish Airlines—because even after paying thousands of dollars, you may not receive what you were promised.