When you surf over to a cruise win or cruise giveaways agency's Web site, or call up their 800 number, you may be talking with one of the top cruise-only wholesalers in the country, a local franchisee of a large full-service travel organization, or a very experienced cruise professional at a small traveling agency. Or, it may be a novice operating off of his or her kitchen table.
So, how can you expose the difference and find a good, reputable travel agent or agency -- and steer clear of a bad reservation experience?
Unfortunately, agents tell us that the vacation business is not well-regulated, and just about any person can just print up corporation cards, hang out a shingle and start advertising travel. The bulk of states do not require any form of registration, certification, licensing or client protection measures for travel agencies, although this is beginning to change. Bottom line: It is very important to know who you are dealing with.
Your best bet is to converse to associates, co-workers, family and associates and ask them if they are aware of of a good, reputable, local agent who concentrates in cruise sweepstakes. But here are a little more tips for avoiding cruise travel scams -- and spotting a less-than-legitimate agency and guarding your expense before it's too late.
Paid with a credit card. For your correct protection against either a deceitful seller of travel or possible supplier bankruptcy, always pay out for your cruise fare -- both the primary deposit and the final payment -- with a big credit card such as Mastercard, Visa or Amex. Under the Fair Credit Billing Act, you are entitled to security (via a chargeback of disputed fees to your account) if a dealer fails.
Very important note: This protection may not come into play to those utilizing debit or check cards; it's important to check rules with your issuing bank just before you charge.
Be sure your money is in the appropriate hands. After you've made a payment, examine your credit card or bank statement and make sure that any applicable charges establish straight with the cruise line, not with the travel agency. That way, you'll find out that the cruise line has certainly obtained your money. If you need to make payment by check or money order, it should be made out payable to the cruise line -- not to the agency or to a particular person.
Get appropriate confirmation of your reservation. Ask on getting the real cruise company verification numbers, not just a confirmation number from your corporation. Not only will you then know that your information and money is in the proper hands, but you'll also be able to preserver shore excursions, restaurant bookings and spa appointments (where available) on the cruise line's Web site.
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