For Immediate Release:
March 10, 2010
Taking a vacation should not be a hasty decision
Consumer awareness can save you money
FREEHOLD, NJ – All the snow and bad weather makes it very tempting to take advantage of one of the “book now” vacation promotions.
Like other big ticket items and purchases, vacation offers are sometimes too good to be true. The Monmouth County Department of Consumer Affairs recommends that with a little planning and research your well-deserved break can be just what you dreamed it would be.
Consumer Affairs recommends that you consider a vacation package:
- Once you sign on the dotted line, you are committed to the terms of the contract. A contract is a legal and binding document. Make sure you read the fine print, and if you are not sure, do not accept anything verbally. Always get your commitment in writing.
- Many contracts cannot be canceled. In some instances, you may be able to cancel your trip but you may not be able to get your deposit back. Identify and understand the contract cancellation clause and the refund policy on all monies paid.
- Be wary of free nights and offers that are “too good to be true.”
If you book a trip and then cancel it, check your credit card bills to make sure no added charges are placed on your account. This may happen if you provided enough information to a company prior to signing up which could enable them to charge your account without your authorization.
Additional information about vacation contracts can be obtained from the Department of Consumer Affairs. The office is open weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The phone number is 732-431-7900, or you can visit the county Web site at
www.visitmonmouth.com.
This awareness effort is part of the county’s participation in
National Consumer Protection Week, March 7-13. This consumer education campaign encourages people to take full advantage of their consumer rights.
“The message of National Consumer Protection Week 2010 is simple: It’s never too early or too late to become a more informed and empowered consumer,” said Freeholder Director Lillian G. Burry, liaison to the county’s Department of Consumer Affairs. “Regardless of your age or financial situation, there are useful lessons to learn about spending and managing money wisely.”
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