Press releases
16 October 2006
Don't Get Burnt Booking Your Holiday Online
There are lots of websites offering fantastic holiday bargains for those that are seeking a break in the sun this summer. But following recent police investigations into a potential fraudulent online holiday website, Unbeatable Holidays.com, Consumer Direct East Midlands is warning local people to think carefully when booking their holidays online to avoid the pitfalls.
Sara Barry, Consumer Direct East Midlands Manager says: 'Many people get a good deal booking their holiday online and have a great time. However, I would advise people to do some research before they book and make sure they know what to look out for. As with buying anything, it often pays to shop around.'
Follow these Consumer Direct East Midlands tips before you book a holiday online to protect yourself from disappointment:
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Look for an approved logo when booking a holiday online so you can be confident of fair treatment if things go wrong. Choose travel agents and tour operators who belong to a trade association that has a code of practice. Look for ABTA (Association of British Travel Agents) or AITO (Association of Independent Tour Operators).
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If you are considering booking a holiday with a company you haven't heard of before, do some online research with holiday review websites first.
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Think about paying for your holiday with a credit card, even it is just the deposit. It may allow you to claim against your credit card company if something goes wrong.
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Read any terms and conditions carefully.
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Keep a record of all details, transactions and confirmations that you receive.
If after booking your holiday you are concerned that the company may have gone out of business or isn't a reputable trader, Consumer Direct East Midlands has this advice:
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Contact the company to try and clarify your booking or to get them to put things right first.
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Check to see whether your flight is booked with the airline.
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Check if your accommodation is booked with the hotel.
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Contact your credit card company to see if you may be able to make a claim with them instead of the tour operator.
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If you have paid by other means i.e. debit card ask about the chargeback service and if by cheque, if it has not cleared place a cancellation on the cheque.
If you are concerned about a booking with Unbeatable Holidays.com or are having problems with any holiday company you can call Consumer Direct East Midlands for clear, practical advice on 08454 04 05 06 or visit www.consumerdirect.gov.uk.
