Christopher Elliott

Christopher Elliott is the founder of Elliott Advocacy, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that empowers consumers to solve their problems and helps those who can't. He's the author of numerous books on consumer advocacy and writes three nationally syndicated columns. He also publishes the Elliott Report, a news site for consumers, and Elliott Confidential, a critically acclaimed newsletter about customer service. If you have a consumer problem you can't solve, contact him directly through his advocacy website. You can also follow him on X, Facebook, and LinkedIn, or sign up for his daily newsletter.

Stockholm may not be shouting about it, but this city is setting a new standard for sustainable living. From museums powered by green energy to restaurants cutting food waste and hotels transforming historic buildings into sustainable havens, it’s a masterclass in eco-friendly tourism. If you want to see what sustainable travel truly looks like, Stockholm is leading the way—quietly, yet powerfully.

In Stockholm, tourism officials ask: How much more sustainable can it get?

October 19, 2024September 28, 2024 by Christopher Elliott

When it comes to sustainable destinations, it may not get much more sustainable than Stockholm.

Tom Kay ordered a mobility scooter from Amazon, only to face a series of frustrating setbacks. First, the vendor claimed the color he wanted was unavailable and refused to cancel the order. Then, the tracking information falsely showed that the scooter had been delivered. Despite his efforts to resolve the issue, Amazon and the vendor were unresponsive, demanding a police report for a product that likely was never shipped. After months of dead ends, Tom finally received a refund for his $2,650 Amazon mobility scooter with a little help.

What can I do about the missing mobility scooter I ordered from Amazon?

October 19, 2024September 27, 2024 by Christopher Elliott

The mobility scooter Tom Kay orders from Amazon never arrived — yet the tracking number says it’s been delivered. Is his $2,650 lost, too?

Satrupa Kagel, an American Airlines frequent flier, booked an award ticket from Tokyo to San Francisco only to discover the day before her flight that American Airlines had canceled her reservation without notice. After spending $3,548 on a last-minute ticket, she sought a refund from American Airlines. Despite months of waiting and no response, she finally got the airline to acknowledge their mistake and issue a full refund, including her miles. This case highlights the challenges of dealing with American Airlines and the importance of confirming your flight reservation.

American Airlines canceled my business class ticket by accident. Can you fix it?

October 27, 2024September 25, 2024 by Christopher Elliott

A day before Satrupa Kagel’s flight from Tokyo to San Francisco, she finds out American Airlines canceled her ticket. Is she on the hook for the $3,548 she had to spend for a last-minute ticket?

Alex and Jaime Passakos experienced a disappointing wedding at Sandals Montego Bay, citing issues like poor hair styling, an ineffective bridal assistant, missed sunset photos, and damaged wedding attire. Most distressingly, their wedding photos and video were of poor quality. The couple initially sought a refund for the wedding portion of their $48,000 trip. Sandals offered a partial refund and a free stay, which was negotiated up after complaints. Ultimately, Sandals increased their compensation offer, which the couple accepted.

My wedding was ruined! What does Sandals owe me?

October 19, 2024September 23, 2024 by Christopher Elliott

Alex and Jaime Passakos say their honeymoon at Sandals was ruined — and they want compensation.

Ever heard of destination dupes? They're like knockoff designer bags—convincing from afar, but disappointing up close. From Atlantic City being pitched as Las Vegas to Buenos Aires as Paris, it’s all a gimmick. Every place is unique, and Windstar travelers know the real joy of travel is exploring authentic experiences, not imitations. So instead of following a TikTok trend, take control of your travel narrative and discover something truly special. In the world of travel, there’s no substitute for the real deal. Don’t get duped.

Planning a trip? Don’t get destination-duped

October 19, 2024September 22, 2024 by Christopher Elliott

If you see a lot of long faces in places like Atlantic City, Buenos Aires or Disney World in Orlando, then you have a good eye. Some of these poor travelers have been destination-duped.

Barbara Glavish thought her valuables were secure on a trip to Kuala Lumpur, thanks to a slash-proof handbag. When two thieves tried to snatch her purse, they were in for a surprise—the bag didn't budge. With pickpocketing on the rise in popular tourist destinations, experts recommend being vigilant and taking extra precautions to protect your belongings. Whether it's using a money belt, specialized travel clothing, or other secure options, keeping your valuables safe is more important than ever when you travel. Don't become a target—take action now.

Pro tips for keeping your valuables safe when you travel

October 19, 2024September 21, 2024 by Christopher Elliott

Barbara Glavish didn’t worry about keeping her belongings safe on a recent trip to Kuala Lumpur. That’s because she was carrying a slash-proof handbag, “so I could worry less about getting robbed,” she says.

Susan Deonier spent over 1,300 hours crafting detailed Amazon reviews, only to have all 654 of them abruptly deleted without explanation. Despite multiple inquiries and letters to Amazon executives, she received no response. Amazon cited a vague violation of community guidelines but offered no specific reason or chance to rectify the situation. After months of frustration, she sought help, and finally, Amazon restored her reviews. This story highlights the challenges of dealing with automated systems and the importance of persistence in getting Amazon reviews reinstated.

Can you help me restore the 654 product reviews Amazon has deleted?

November 1, 2024September 20, 2024 by Christopher Elliott

Amazon has removed all of Susan Deonier’s product reviews from the platform, but it won’t say why. Is there any way to get these comments restored?

Tracy Joselson and her husband booked a Windstar cruise with a promised all-inclusive package, only to find that Windstar later denied the package due to a missing signature from the onboard consultant. Despite months of back-and-forth communication, the issue remained unresolved until Windstar finally reviewed the reservation. With persistence and a little help, the cruise line not only honored the original promise but also added extra shipboard credits as an apology. This story highlights the challenges and rewards of booking directly onboard with Windstar.

Windstar promised an all-inclusive package on my Central America cruise. Now it’s refusing!

October 10, 2024September 18, 2024 by Christopher Elliott

Tracy Joselson and her husband book a Windstar cruise with a promised all-inclusive package. But then the cruise line takes away the package. Can they cancel their cruise?

Darrell Eldridge faced a $3,000 charge from Turo for a blown tire during his rental of a 2021 Dodge Durango. Despite providing evidence of poor tire maintenance, Turo initially upheld the charge. Eldridge took detailed photos, proving negligence in tire upkeep by the vehicle owner. After appeals and advocacy intervention, Turo rescinded the charge. This case highlights the importance of thorough documentation, especially of tire condition, when renting from platforms like Turo.

Turo repair problem: Do I have to pay $3,000 for this blown tire?

October 10, 2024September 16, 2024 by Christopher Elliott

When a tire on Darrell Eldridge’s Turo rental blew out, he was relieved that he didn’t get into an accident. But his relief soon gave way to rage when Turo sent him a $3,000 bill for damage.

Summer 2024 left many travelers regretting their vacation choices. From booking the wrong airlines to overstuffing itineraries, the mistakes were costly. I learned the hard way—overpaying for an airfare that drained my budget. And what about that missed opportunity to visit an iconic spot? With the new iPhone in hand, these regrets could have been avoided with better planning and advice from a travel pro. Don’t let these mistakes ruin your next vacation. Plan smarter for the upcoming seasons.

Summer’s over. What are your top vacation regrets?

October 10, 2024September 15, 2024 by Christopher Elliott

Flying a budget airline. Staying at a bad hotel. Traveling with the wrong people.
Vacation regrets, you may have a few for the summer of 2024. More than a few, actually.