I watched a YouTube video the other day about 8 elderly Aussies who signed up for a 50-week tour through Europe by bus.
The glossy brochure explained that they would see Europe’s best sights, enjoy cozy accommodations, and be served by a friendly crew.
What they got was the exact opposite.
Boris Tunis and his son David operated this particular bus tour, and they offered their passengers anything but cozy accommodations.
The only way for the eight passengers to shower was to at public restroom sinks or in rivers under bridges. For some time, the bus operated with no headlights. There was no heat on the bus in sub-zero temperatures.
When passengers complained, they were told to “get lost,” or that they were “in breach of contract.” When the passengers asked where they were going that day, they were told to look at a map.
No one got their money back.
What was supposed to be the trip of a lifetime turned out to be the nightmare of a lifetime.
(if you’re interested in watching the video for yourself, click the following link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pGII4jpEGq8)
We all love a good travel horror story, but none of us wants to be on the receiving end of one.
I did some research on common travel scams (so I never have to be the recipient of one) and found this helpful list of action steps:
According to the Federal Trade Commission:
- Don’t sign or pay until you know the terms of the deal. Get a copy of the cancellation and refund policies before you pay. If you can’t get those details, walk away. Say “no thanks” to anyone who tries to rush you without giving you time to consider the offer.
- Do some research. Look up travel companies, hotels, rentals, and agents with the words “scam,” “review,” or “complaint.” See what others say about them before you commit. Also, check that the address of the property really exists. If the property is located in a resort, call the front desk and confirm their location and other details on the contract.
- Don’t pay with wire transfers, gift cards, or cryptocurrency. Dishonest travel package promoters might tell you to pay in one of these ways, but that’s a sure sign of a scam. If you pay with wire transfers, gifts cards, or cryptocurrency and there’s a problem with what you paid for, you’ll lose your money, and there’s likely no way to track it or get it back.
Another way that you can avoid travel horror stories is by having quality travel insurance on your side. This is something we offer at Martin and Associates – and most find it a small price to pay for the peace of mind it brings.