May 7, 1996
(Government Services and Lands)

Trade Practices Division of Government Services and Lands warning consumers about vacation offers that appear in the mail

Have you received an official looking notice in the mail suggesting you are eligible for a vacation down south?

Offers of fabulous vacation packages which arrive in the mail may sound very appealing, but John Downton, Director of Trade Practices with the Department of Government Services and Lands, is advising consumers to check out the facts before planning their holiday.

According to Downton: "Many of these offers are not what they appear to be and a "Notice of Entitlement" or "Official Notification" for a vacation package does not mean you have won a prize. Such notices are frequently sent to consumers in this province from agencies outside the country. Offers for vacations in holiday resorts such as Florida and the Bahamas sound enticing, especially when they include a cruise, luxury accommodations, and other features. However, it is important to carefully read the details of the offer and know the conditions which apply. For instance, many of these vacation package offers include hotel accommodations but not airfare to Florida."

Downton cautions consumers: "If you receive an offer in the mail for a vacation package at what appears to be a low price, ask about all details before paying out money. If you do not ask specific questions about additional charges, you may find that when the trip is over, you have expenses you did not expect."

There are several types of notices which are sent to consumers, but according to Downton, such offers are generally similar in nature. Consumers are usually required to respond to the offer by telephone, at which time they must decide whether or not to purchase the vacation package. Because it appears to be such a good deal, consumer sometimes authorize charges to their credit account without taking the time to consider the deal.

Most offers state that they include a cancellation policy which provides a full or partial refund for cancellations within a specified period of time. However, according to Downton, some consumers have complained to officials at the Trade Practices Division that they either could not get a refund or could only get a portion of their money back when they realized the true cost of the trip.

Many of these vacation offers originate from American based firms. Because they are outside this country, there are limitations on the ability of Canadian authorities in attempting to assist consumers obtain redress.

Downton suggests that consumers ask the following questions before agreeing to any unsolicited offers:

• What exactly is included in the package? Be sure to ask if transportation is included in the price.
  
• What is the refund policy?
  
• What is the cost in Canadian dollars?
  
• Will all of the details be provided in writing before any payment is made?
  
• Are the arrangements guaranteed as stated in the large print in the notice?

"It is the consumer's responsibility to find out all the details in advance," cautions Downton. Consumers can protect themselves by seeking advice from a consumer affairs officer with the Department of Government Services and Lands who will be familiar with this type of offer. Consumers should also comparison shop by checking with local travel agencies to compare prices, details and service. It is much easier to deal with a local travel agency if you have any complaints about the vacation than it is to deal with someone outside the country.

"Remember," said Downton, "if an offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is."

Contact: Trade Practices Division, Department of Government Services and Lands. Carol Furlong (709) 729-4196, St. John's; Nellie Osmond (709) 637-2445, Corner Brook; or Carl Tessier (709) 256-1019, Gander.