As the world begins to open up again, many people are excited to finally take the trips they have been dreaming of. However, as Lynne Schrum and her husband David Hall found out, last-minute cancellations can leave would-be travelers out thousands of dollars. In their case, the couple had booked a dream Aegean Sea cruise, which was subsequently postponed to October 2022, so they opted for a tulips cruise in the Netherlands instead. But just as they were getting ready to leave, their trip was canceled due to issues with Vantage Deluxe World Travel, the Boston-based cruise company they booked with.
To avoid finding oneself in a similar position, travel experts advise taking the following steps:
1. Pay with a credit card when making initial travel bookings. While companies like Vantage may offer discounts for paying by eCheck or through a checking account, credit cards provide consumer protection against financial insolvency. Credit card companies can typically dispute charges for services that did not come to fruition, providing a safety net for travelers.
2. Research the company before booking. Before putting down that credit card, it’s important to do your research. Look up reviews on search engines and social media or through the Better Business Bureau. Consider booking with travel companies that have certifications or proven financial stability, such as members of the U.S. Tour Operators Associations or suppliers listed with Trusted FIT Services. Additionally, consider using a licensed, bonded, and insured travel agency that can vet travel companies for you and provide support if issues arise.
3. Be cautious of timing when looking at company reviews. People leave reviews of companies during all stages – have a look at what people have been saying during the pandemic.
With these steps in mind, travelers can work to avoid costly and frustrating situations when planning their trips. However, it’s important to remember that sometimes circumstances are out of one’s control, as was the case for Schrum and Hall. They were among many customers affected by a ransomware attack that left them unable to contact Vantage for at least a week. In such cases, it’s important to remain patient and persistent in seeking a resolution.
Related facts:
– Vantage Deluxe World Travel faced a ransomware attack that left them unable to contact customers for at least a week.
– Travel companies such as members of the U.S. Tour Operators Associations put up $1 million in collateral in the event something happens, giving travelers some extra peace of mind.
– Licensed, bonded, and insured travel agencies can offer customers options with vetted companies or tell you if a company has caused issues in the past.
Key takeaway:
If you’re planning a trip, it’s essential to pay with a credit card, research companies before booking, and consider using a licensed, bonded, and insured travel agency. While these steps can help avoid last-minute cancellations and lost funds, it’s important to remain patient and persistent in finding a resolution if issues do arise.
In conclusion:
Traveling should be a fun and exciting experience, but last-minute cancellations can turn the dream trip into a nightmare, leaving travelers out thousands of dollars. By taking steps to research companies, pay with a credit card and consider using a travel agency, travelers can help avoid this outcome. However, it’s important to remain patient and persistent if issues do arise, as sometimes circumstances are out of one’s control.
