Seven Tips to Avoid Costly Surprises When Traveling to Argentina

Whether traveling to Argentina or any other country internationally, there are some basic tips which will help you to avoid unpleasant surprises when traveling to other countries.

Buy from a travel agent you know, if at all possible

If you look for professional affiliations for the travel agent, you are less likely to end up with a disappointing vacation, or one which costs a great deal more than you had planned. If an unknown agent wants to sell you a deal on the vacation package, at least take the time to go online and do some checking about the agent.

Verify that the names of the seller and the provider are the same

The point of this caution is to stay away from telemarketers who are only out to sell you the ticket, but take no further responsibility for the success of your trip. Deeply discounted prices or extra amenities may require that you sit through a sales presentation. Be especially wary of faxes, emails or post card promotions received from an unknown seller. Further, don’t fall into the trap of paying for the trip via a courier who comes to collect, or of paying through overnight delivery. This may indicate the seller is trying to avoid mail fraud or wire fraud.

Verify travel details with the agent before paying

Each portion of the details should be verified. For instance, know the name of the hotels or lodging where you will be housed. Specific airline carriers or cruise ships should be spelled out. Check on the need for cancellation insurance, and find out whether the travel business has insurance as well. All this confirmation effort should be done prior to payment.

Pay for your travel plans via credit card

Don’t fall for the scam precipitated by some telemarketing firms and provide your credit card information for “verification” or “confirmation” purposes. By using a credit card, you can dispute some of the charges, at least, with the credit card company.

Don’t purchase long term vacation packages

These terms are often used in marketing time shares or vacation. Buyers are convinced to prepay for 5 years or more. Marketers may not let you know about rising maintenance or upkeep fees, or association dues. There is virtually no resale value for a vacation home such as this,

Learn the buzzwords

You should be particularly aware of luxury dream vacation offers. Only you can determine what is your dream vacation. Make sure you understand what is being promised by the marketer. Also be aware of such terms as “blackout dates” when you can’t enjoy the discounted prices and “subject to availability” may mean you can’t use the accommodations if someone else gets there first.

Avoid instant travel agent offers

Some marketers sell a discount card that promises to provide discounts on everything from cruises to airline tickets to hotels to meals. Be aware that only a travel agent has access to these discount deals, and only the associated industry will make provide the discounts.