Linda |
Sep 13th, 2000 06:07 PM |
Oh boy, you've hit on a subject that really gets me going. <BR> <BR>Not only do hotels overbook (and I'm seeing increasing numbers of posts where this has happened), but the tour/package providers contribute very heavily to the problem. <BR> <BR>Last year we booked (and paid for) out trip to Barbados over three months before our planned departure date, assuming that early booking (and payment) would ensure getting the accomodation that we wanted (silly, silly me). I sat in my TA's office and listened while he "booked" our trip with the vacation tour rep. <BR> <BR>Two weeks before departure, I E-mailed the resort directly to confirm that all was as planned. I was horrified to learn that the resort had never even heard of us (they finally got our booking 2 days later). I learned that this is quite common procedure. The vacation providers take your info (and your money) and then generally book in large blocks a week or so before departure dates. So, in spite of doing all you can to guarantee that your trip is what you planned and paid for, you may not be any better off that someone purchasing a 'last-minute deal' at half the price. <BR> <BR>As well, some resorts reserve their premium location rooms for visitors not booking through package deals, while the blocks of rooms overlooking the all-night disco/the dumpster/whatever go to the package people. After all, they already have your money, while the other guests probably won't be paying the bill in full till they check-out, putting them in a better bargaining position. <BR> <BR>This sucks. <BR> <BR>Tour/package providers should have to book with the resort as soon as they get your money. Why don't they? <BR> <BR>What other industry exists where you have to pay in full for goods and services well before they are provided, with no guarantee that you will get what you have paid for? (And having to forfeit your money if you don't like it?)Imagine ordering a custom-made suit and paying for it, only to be told on delivery day that they took too many orders and you'll just have to make do with an off the rack number that's the wrong colour and too small and, by the way we're going to keep all your money for the custom job anyhow. <BR> <BR>I read a posting in the Sympatico travel forums from a lady that had her wedding absolutely ruined in this way, which prompted me to post an open letter to travel agents and package providers on the subject - so far no responses. <BR> <BR>Sorry for venting, but for many people, travel is not a once a year thing, but a once-in-a-lifetime occurence for which many sacrifices have been made and it's heartbreaking to think that all their efforts have about as much importance as the ordering of a cheese sandwich. <BR>
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