Troubleshooting: No such thing as "free" cruise

Q: I think I am entitled to a refund from a company called Your Travel Headquarters, and I need your help. My girlfriend and I recently got a call from the company, saying we had won a free cruise and that we need to remember that day for purchase.

Do not Miss thesis Travel Stories

That 12 products take hassle out of Traveling

Necessity May Be The mother of invention, to travel in, frustration Makes a pretty good midwife. Here are 12 products to make life That loved Easier for travelers. Full story

Gas prices could "spring travel detour plansInside The Las Vegas party machineNo more pretzels? Airlines ditch free snacksYoda, Rocky – Even RoboCop? – Lure tourists

We did, and requested all relevant information about the trip, and how much it would cost and whether there were other costs and expenses. One representative explained that it was a "free" travel promotion and the only thing we had to pay a departure tax was $ 190 and costs we may incur to get the cruise ship port of departure Miami.

I specifically asked, "Is that all?" He replied: "Yes, these are the only expenses and other fees would be applied." According to him, we had 18 months to enjoy the journey, and we needed to pay $ 190 immediately or we give up our prices.

Last month, we decided to book a date, only to discover later that it would cost another $ 550. I told the representative that I wanted to cancel and receive a refund since we've been misled. He flat-out refused, saying: "We have a policy of non-repayment." What should I do? – Michael Mihalik, Harrison, NJ

A: I think you're entitled to a refund, too. I do not remember an unsolicited offer for a "free" cruise promotion that does not include some kind of gotcha clause in it. Yes, the cruise is free but getting there will cost. Or we have to "keep" Cruise with a non-refundable deposit (hey, if it's free, why do you need to pay to confirm?).

Find the latest updates are from this story and more @ msnbc_travel.

Before you agree to book a cruise, maybe you should have done a little work. Your Travel Headquarters, which is based in Batavia, Ill., scored an "F" on his note of Better Business Bureau when you contacted me. Among the problems: complaints of its sales practices, refunds and customer service. Even a quick Internet search would have sent red flags enough to reconsider the $ 190 deposit.

But the representative insisted the book for you in this moment, did not he? These high-pressure sales tactics should also raise red flags. In my experience, those who do not want you looking for an offer or go around to make sure you can not find a better offer has something to hide. Whether an offer of "free" cruise, a division of time too good to be true, or a vacation club with incredible benefits, when they tell you that you need to decide now – execution.

The other problem is how the assurances were made. No other fees? This promise was made by telephone, and if you record your calls, there is no way to hold a representative to this question. Get everything in writing.

Finally – and perhaps most importantly – remember that there is no such thing as a free lunch. Or a free trip, though. If someone offers you a "free" cruise or a stay "free" station, just say "no." Do not think twice. You'll thank me.

I contacted your seat travel on your behalf. He paid your deposit.

More Source:

Judge steps into legal fight as child welfare cases await - News ...
Don't Drop Universal Health Coverage - CBS News
Celebration Cruise Line - Fort Lauderdale, FL
1980s

Related News:

Details :
Submited at Thursday, March 10th, 2011 at 4:00 am on Tips by samantha
Comment RSS 2.0 - leave a comment - trackback

Leave Comment Here...

404 Not Found