IQ: Consumer Education at Educators

IQ Fifty Plus Guide

Travel and Leisure

Travel Deals & Scams

Traveling should be fun and carefree but all too often the “good deal” doesn’t turn out to be much of one. How can you keep the fun and carefree in your travels? Do your homework up front and then be prepared for the unexpected.

If you're planning to visit Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean or other location in the Western Hemisphere, be aware that there are new passport requirements. The first phase applies to air travel only and took effect on January 23, 2007. The second phase will apply to all travel and may take effect as early as January 1, 2008. The FindLaw.com article, New Passport Requirements: The Basics, has more information.

Are you an AARP member? If not, you might consider joining. The travel discounts available to members—airlines, automobiles, cruises, entertainment, hotels and lodging, vacations and tours—are worth checking out.

Traveler Tips: How to Gear Up for a Great Trip has tips from the FTC to help you avoid unpleasant and costly surprises.

TravelSense from the American Society of Travel Agents has Travel Tips, Consumer info, descriptions of Destinations, and a Community forum.

Before You Buy a Tour from FindLaw.com has questions to ask and suggestions to follow.

Travel Agents FAQ from FindLaw.com provides answers about working with a travel agent.

Travel Scams

Some “deals” are actually scams. These resources will help you avoid various scams.

Travel Scams FAQ from FindLaw.com provides answers to some common questions about travel offers and timeshares.

Travel Fraud: Go to Paradise, Not the Cleaners from AARP describes several phony deals.

Driving Overseas? Steer Clear of Bogus International Driving Permits from the FTC describes what an International Driving Permit is and how to get an official one.

BBB Warns of Deceptive Travel-Related Promotions describes typical "too-good-to-be-true" travel deals and how to avoid being taken in by the promoters.

 

 

IQ Fifty Plus Guide is prepared by Remar Sutton and Associates and licensed to Educators Credit Union. Copyright 2007. All rights reserved.


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