[markousha]

That's interesting.

Here is what CO said:
I understand that the delay was, at best, very frustrating and truly regret that you were disappointed in our response. As Continental Airlines is a US flagship and not an EU Community carrier, and the delayed flight originated in the United States and not in an EU signatory state, European Regulation EU261 is not applicable.
While I realize that the application of our policies has not provided you with your preferred outcome, please be assured that we appreciate your business and we understand that you have a choice of carriers when you fly. Although I must respectfully decline your request for additional compensation, please be advised that your comments have been documented and submitted in a report that is made available to our senior management for internal review.

I fear he's right as under 261/2004, "The protection accorded to passengers departing from an airport located in a Member State should be extended to those leaving an airport located in a third country for one situated in a Member State, when a Community carrier operates the flight."

What de you think?
Or do you mean I should remind them that the second leg originated from a EU member state? But, the thing is the first leg (Houston-London) was late, and that caused the connection problem (London-Nice). Looks like this one can't be under 261/2004. I think it was overbooked and the delay was a good thing for CO. So, they put me on another one (London-Frankfurt-Nice) without anyone knowing and obviously telling me - second **** up. They finally sent me on a London-Munich-Nice. Total delay to final destination was 6 hours.
I'm not familiar with regulations and laws in general. I'm not sure what to do.