HOUSTON – A concierge allegedly failed to warn Rodney Engle that a hiking adventure in French Polynesia could be dangerous and now Engle wants more than a million dollars in damages from the hotel that recommended the activity.
Engle filed suit against Conrad Hotels & Resorts (Hilton Worldwide) and Woodlake Travel Services on May 11 in Harris County District Court.
According to the lawsuit, Engle consulted with Woodlake Travel Services for a “dream vacation” to celebrate his 20th wedding anniversary with his wife. They ended up staying at the Conrad Bora Bora Nui in French Polynesia.
After checking in, the couple sought ideas from the concierge for activities and were directed to a company for a hiking adventure.
“On the date of the hiking trip, rain had been falling. Mr. Engle and his wife were led on a steep climb using ropes to pull themselves up,” the suit states. “The hike was so difficult that the guide was forced to use a machete to cut walk paths for the Engels to traverse.”
On the way down the path, Engle fell and slid down the mountain. He then dropped an additional 10 feet, landing on his back.
Engle alleges the defendant companies negligently failed to:
- Provide proper safety equipment;
- Provide properly trained guides; and
- Warn him of the risks.
Engle is suing for his past and future pain, medical expenses, loss of earnings, disfigurement and impairment.
Houston attorney Loren Klitsas represents him
Filed in Harris County District Court, case No. 2020-28767.