2024-07-09
Vacation Disaster

I’m sure when you envision your dream vacation, the last thing you want to deal with are problems that potentially infringe on your good time. Even though technology is beneficial when it comes to booking vacations and getaways, it’s important to stay up-to-date on the latest scams circulating the travel industry.

Taxi Drivers

Depending on the country you’re visiting, some taxi drivers are paid a fee for bringing in guests. A lot of drivers will tell tourists that a specific location is no longer in open and then they’ll recommend an alternate location. However, they’re providing this bogus information because the place they’re taking you to will pay them for your attendance. Be sure to research the areas you want to visit and confirm their status.

Time Share Representative

Time share representatives can seem like sales vultures. Most of these people will entice tourists by offering them a free gift and/or a free vacation. You’ll have to sit through an entire speech about the resort or hotel they’re advertising and listen to pitch after pitch. It’s important to stand your ground and just say no to their false promises.

Groupon Getaways

Groupon Getaways can be an excellent way for tourists to get the most bang for their buck, however it’s important to pay attention to the fine print. There are a lot of exceptions to many of the vacations the site is selling. Whether there are specific days of use, time frame of use or vouchers that must be followed exactly as stated. Be sure to read everything and make sure you’re not wasting your money on vacation that isn’t doable for your schedule.

Free Wi-Fi

Many people will connect with the option of free wi-fi with no reservations because the last thing they want to do is be bothered with overage charges. However, when someone connects to a wi-fi network they’re essentially giving someone access to their personal information. If you’re not connecting to your own router, that is password protected, it’s best to stray away from public wi-fi networks – even if they’re offered by reputable resorts and hotels.

Concierge Calls

When checking into a hotel or resort, most establishments request the traveler to keep a credit card on file just in case other charges need to be charged. Therefore, the concierge service would never call your room to provide services and request your credit card information to be provided during the call. If you’re giving your account information to an individual, be sure see the person face-to-face and confirm that they are a legitimate employee.

Whenever you’re traveling, it’s important to stay attentive to the instances that are going around you. Never provide your personal information with random people and always ask for proof that you are dealing with real employees and staff. Be sure to keep your belongings close by at all times and stay mindful of the area you’re visiting.

more from beliefnet and our partners