Is this Internet holiday advice up to date?

Random Number

2007-09-03 18:41:08

Hello.

I've been reading the "Be Safe - Not Sorry" guide on this site I was wondering whether some of the information is still current or could perhaps be qualified:

"Do not book your holiday from the television or from a newspaper or from the Internet."

"We strongly advise that you do not book goods or services using the Internet but use the Internet solely for research purposes and Always use A REPUTABLE TRAVEL AGENT."

Is it not the case that when booking a package holiday through the website of a travel agent (Thomson, Thomas Cook etc.) you get the same protection as when you book in one of their branches?

Lots of people now book car hire over the Internet without trouble and I found it a lot cheaper than using a travel agent.

I'm not looking to criticise the authors, but is this information still valid or am I misreading it?

Cheers.

Wizard

2007-09-03 18:46:51

it was updated earler this year by our solicitor, she is offering the safest advice she can

wizard

jethro58

2007-09-03 20:16:34

I use the INTERNET to research the product that i want and usually do book it over the INTERNET.

MarkJ

2007-09-04 14:51:14

Please do remember though that anybody with a little knowledge could set up a website pretending to be a travel agent with flashy logos and the like. Much easier than physically opening up a shop on the high street.

Perhaps researching the company you are just about to book up with and parting your good earned money with might be wise.

Mark

fwh

2007-09-04 15:39:24

I posted this one a while back.

You can use the internet to check these companies. Whilst not a guarantee, it should be part of the process where you have no knowledge of who they are.

Many people do of course post on HT asking if anyone has any knowledge.

http://www.holidaytruths.co.uk/viewtopic.php?t=68836

The tip about only a Credit Card NOT a Debit Card applies at all times.

fwh

Random Number

2007-09-04 18:03:17

My point wasn't really about giving money to companies that have a website but that you have never heard of. I fully admit that could well be risky.

It was more that the advice gives the impression that it isn't safe to book Skytravel, Thomsons, Thomas Cook, My Travel, Airtours etc. etc. from their websites, when surely this is just as safe as travelling to a physical branch?

Again the car hire example I was thinking of was somewhere that loads of people seem to use quite happily such as http://www.economycarhire.com/

Cheers.

Kath

2007-09-04 19:49:37

We will put your points across to Ros Fernihough, and if she feels the need to amend the booklet, then I am sure she will.

Thanks

Kath HT Admin

Help And Assistance

Post a Reply

Help And Assistance

Post a Reply

Get the best deals!

from our cruise, ski and holiday partners