While it is much easier today to research and plan a vacation on your own now, it does take a lot of time to navigate through the multitude of choices. Maybe you want to have a travel agent do all the work for you? While most travel agencies are reputable and guide consumers honestly and competently, there have been cases where consumers have paid for tickets that were never received. Follow the following steps before selecting a travel agency:
Find out how long the agency or tour operator has been in business and whether there are any complaints or legal action against the merchant.
Check to see if the agency is a member of these trade associations:
• The American Society of Travel Agents at www.asta.org
• The United States Tour Operators Association at www.ustoa.com
• The Association of Retail Travel Agents at www.artaonline.com
When paying for travel, pay with a credit card rather than by check or cash. Certain “chargeback” protections apply to credit card purchases. For more information on choosing a travel agency see the Federal Trade Commission’s website:
www.ftc.gov/bcp/menus/consumer/shop/travel.shtm
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