Released on November 1, 2016
Last year, a Kindersley travel agency went out of business. The closure affected a wedding party and caused many people to miss out on the trips they planned. Many of the customers placed deposits worth thousands of dollars in checks, cash and credit to the agency to reserve their spots.
The Consumer Protection Division of the Financial and Consumer Affairs Authority (FCAA) was able to help some consumers get their money back but others were not so lucky.
Consumers should take three steps to protect themselves in the event something goes wrong with their travel agency:
- Pay with a credit card. It is easier for consumers to get a refund through their credit card provider.
- Minimize or avoid cash or check deposits. It may be more difficult or impossible to get a refund if something goes wrong.
- Do some research, read customer reviews, check with the Better Business Bureau and the Association of Canadian Travel Agencies, and confirm that the agency is well established and has a good reputation within the community.
Contact Consumer Protection Division
The Consumer Protection Division may be able to help consumers who have problems with a travel agency. They can call toll free at 1-877-880-5550 or by email at [email protected].
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For more information, contact:
Matthew Barton
Financial and Consumer Affairs Authority
Regina
Phone: 306-787-6067
Email: [email protected]