Vacation Tip

Planning a vacation? Be sure you get what you pay for. The Federal Trade Commission issues the following warnings:

• Be wary of "bargain" vacation offers on postcards and certificates. Hidden charges can add up.
• Adopt a "no-surprise" travel policy. Get the total cost in writing and know what it includes before you pay. Get the names, addresses and telephone numbers for the lodgings, airlines and cruise ships you'll be using. Don't accept vague terms like "major hotels" or "luxury cruise ships." And call to verify your reservations.
• Walk away from high-pressure sales pitches that don't give you time to think or plan.
• Give bank or credit information only to businesses you know and trust. Never give unsolicited callers your bank account or credit card number, and never send money by overnight express.

Source: Consumer Alert: "Traveler's Advisory: Get What You Pay For," Federal Trade Commission, Bureau of Consumer Protection, March 1997.

Federal Trade Commission - www. ftc.gov
American Society of Travel Agents - www. astanet.com

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