Attorney General Kelly Ayotte announced today that consumers who like to travel should be aware of telemarketing calls, mail or email offers of low-cost, luxury trips which invariably promise more than they deliver. Telemarketing calls or certificates or faxes which congratulate you on “winning” an exotic trip or fabulous vacation for a very attractive price are among the scams trying to separate you from your hard-earned money. Some say you have been “specially selected” for this opportunity.

While some travel opportunities sold over the telephone or offered through the mail or email are legitimate, many are scams. The vacation which you have “won” likely is not free. The cruise ship you are booked on may look more like a tug boat. The hotel accommodations may be shabby, and you may be required to pay more for an upgrade. Some offers may require you to pay more for port charges, hotel taxes or service fees. Choosing a particular destination or scheduling the vacation at the time you want it also may require an additional fee.

Be cautious if you are considering purchasing a travel opportunity. Be wary of “great deals” and low-priced offers. Do not be pressured into buying; legitimate businesses will not expect you to make snap decisions. Ask detailed questions about what is and is not included in the package and ask about cancellation policies and refunds. Contact the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection and Antitrust Bureau to find out if complaints have been filed against the travel business. Get all the information in writing before agreeing to buy. If the answers to your questions are not satisfactory, do not do business with the company.

Attorney General Ayotte urges New Hampshire consumers to be cautious when purchasing a trip or vacation. “Travel is expensive. Do your homework before buying a vacation and don’t let your trip of a lifetime become a disaster of a lifetime.”

If New Hampshire consumers have any questions or wish additional information, they can visit the Bureau’s website at www.doj.nh.gov or call the Consumer Protection Hotline at 1-888-468-4454 (toll free).