Although one is far more likely to encounter incompetent travel agents than scam artists, it's important to be on the lookout for a con. The best way to avoid being fleeced, if you don't have an established relationship with a travel agent, is to pay for your cruise with a credit card, from deposit to full payment. That way, if an agency goes out of business before your cruise departs, you can cancel payment on services not rendered. An agency that doesn't accept credit cards may be a bad apple. Also be wary of any agency that wants an unusually high deposit (check the cruise brochure). To avoid a disreputable agency, make sure the one you choose has been in business for at least five years. Check its reputation with the local Better Business Bureau or state consumer protection agency before you pay any deposits. If a cruise price seems too good to be true, it probably is. It could mean the agency is desperate to bring in money and may close its doors tomorrow. So be wary of agencies that claim they can beat any price.
To sum up, here are some do's and don'ts when working with an agent:
- Do keep an open mind.
- Do consider an agent's suggestions for different options.
- Do get any price quote in writing with all the details.
- Don't succumb to high-pressure sales tactics.
- Don't book a cruise on the spot -- wait a day.
- Don't book with an agency that offers you inexplicably low prices
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