Travel scams generally revolve around amazing deals-the promise of far-off locales for unheard of fares-that turn out to be bogus, hopefully without unsuspecting travelers losing their shirts on phony airfares.
But sometimes they are more serious and can result in an entire family getting cheated out of a reunion and can lead to an arrest.
If you are following the news, these stories could leave a bad taste in your mouth and, if you are planning a trip, you may be wondering how to find a trusted travel agent-one that won't take off with your hard-earned vacation dollars.
One of the best resources consumers can turn to is TravelSense.org, a resource provided by the American Society of Travel Advisors' (ASTA).
The site gives travelers a list of ASTA Verified travel agents.
Not only do ASTA-Verified advisors adhere to a strict code of conduct put forth by the organization, but they are also travel agents who have proven that they possess unparalleled knowledge, professionalism and observe ethical boundaries that are beyond reproach.
TravelSense is a directory where consumers can find agents with special qualifications or specializations, including those focused on family travel, agents specializing in beach vacations, cruise advisors, honeymoon planners and more.
Once you have found a travel agent, it is completely okay to ask qualifying questions before seeking an agent's advice or completing a booking.
Consumers can ask about additional qualifications, such as specializations or certifications. Many agents are specialists in a specific field or niche and receive training and certification from tourism boards, tour operators, hotels, resorts and more.
In addition to ASTA, there are a number of other organizations that trustworthy travel agents are a part of, too.
Many independent travel agents are members of a host agency. Host agencies provide travel agents, especially those with a home-based business, marketing opportunities, promotions for clients, additional training opportunities, access to technology and more.
Travelers looking for a reputable agent can feel confident in advisors associated with organizations such as Cruise Planners, Avoya Travel Agents, CruiseOne, Travel Planners International, Atlas Travel and Technology, Andavo Travel and many more.
Travel agents are also affiliated with other organizations that provide them with support, including IATA, CLIA, PATH, Signature Travel Network, Virtuoso, Ensemble, Travel Leaders Network, Travelsavers and more.
In order to avoid falling victim to a scam, there are a few tell-tale signs to look for, says ASTA.
-Be extremely skeptical about postcard and phone solicitations that say you have been selected to receive a fabulous vacation.
-You should receive complete details in writing about any trip prior to payment. These details should include the total price, including all administrative fees and service charges; cancellation and change penalties, if any; and specific information about all components of the package.
-If you insist on calling a 900 number in response to a travel solicitation, understand the charges and know the risks.
-Walk away from high-pressure sales presentations that don't allow you time to evaluate the offer or that require you to disclose your income.
-Be suspicious of companies that require you to wait at least 60 days to take your trip.
ASTA also recommends contacting the Better Business Bureau, the Consumer Affairs Office in your city or your state attorney general's office if you feel you've been the victim of a scam. Consumers can also file complaints with ASTA for ASTA-member agencies.
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