June 2, 2006
Buyer Beware
A weekly look at what to watch out for in the world of retail. Figures, case study and tips come from the Consumers Association of Singapore
The world of travel
95 No. of cases filed (January to December 2005)
Top complaint
1. Unsatisfactory services
A consumer paid $6,000 for a travel package. He was told by the sales staff at the travel fair that the departure date could be confirmed within four days. A few days later, he was told by another staff member that the departure date cannot be confirmed until two weeks before departure. He asked Case to ask the company to honour the claims made in the first instance or allow termination with a full refund.
Case sent a letter on behalf of the consumer. The company eventually said the tour had to be cancelled due to insufficient numbers to make a group and a refund was made.
1. Check that a travel company is licensed on the Singapore Tourism Board's website trust.visit singapore.com
2. Consider using accredited travel companies.
3. Put verbal agreements in writing.
4. Consider taking up travel insurance.
5. Get tips on travelling. The National Association of Travel Agents Singapore has a website http://www.natas.org.sg/HTML/TravellerTool_Travelling.asp that provides useful information.
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