Along with poor, tired, overstudious souls awaiting paradise and those endless dreamy plans of basking in the sun with no deadlines, are those vacation packagers awaiting your dollars! The pitch... endless fun in the sun! Well, it might be amazing, that is until you receive your final payment notice, after that inexpensive down payment to hold your spot in heaven.
There are several companies that target campuses all over the states, from high schools offering senior grad packages, to college spring breaks. Some companies are legitimate -- some are not.
Here are some tips to help make that much anticipated trip your dream vacation.
before you book
Choose your location wisely. Make sure you won't be vacationing in land mines, on toxic beaches, storm damaged areas, or in some vast wasteland touted as the next Riviera.How long has the company you are choosing to purchase your package from been in business? Check recommendations if you can. How are the accommodations? Is it a chartered flight or a major airline? Meals provided? What was the food like? By all means, check the National Travelers Association or Better Business Bureau for filed complaints.
What exactly will you get for your money? Don't just look at that colorful brochure and general information insert. Ask for the exact contract you will be signing and scour the details. Look for hidden costs. Late processing fees, hotel security deposits... there will be some!
Again, I can't stress this enough, get all the information up front. I read in one brochure that they'll provide you with your current account status (and here's the snag) and additional trip information. Okay, what is that? Find out ALL the information beforehand.
Is there lost baggage insurance provided by the vendor? Travel delay reimbursements? Emergency medical coverage? How much is included? Does this include dental? How much medical transportation coverage is there? Are there 24-hour assistance services?
after you book
Check your local and national newspapers for reports on the area you will be traveling to. Look for civil unrest, government and monetary issues, traveler's warnings and alerts, and storm watches. Make sure the deposit or portion of the paid trip is fully refundable under these conditions.Make sure you know your deadlines on payments and cancellation policies. Some companies offer cancellation insurance. Trust me, it's worth it!
Factor in all taxes for both arriving to the country and departing. Certain governments change fees on a whim.
Will there be chaperones? How many? Okay, I know what you're thinking, but consider this; they aren't there to get you into trouble, but to get you out of it! What does the company of choice require from their chaperones? Are they CPR certified? Lifeguard certified? Medically trained for emergencies? Basically, if they have to, can they apply a Band-Aid?
Try to place all travel transactions on a credit card. If there are disputes, a credit card company will go after the vendor for the recovery of fees you have paid. If you don't have a credit card available, think twice. It is far better to have family or friends book the trip for you, than the potential of a defunct company with your money.
make sure to consider...
Traveling abroad? Check the exchange rate before you leave. Then shop around for your exchange rate both here and abroad. Each foreign exchange is like a bank, and rates and fees may vary.Passports will be required in other countries. You can find information online and a downloadable application at http://travel.state.gov/passport_services.html.
When leaving the country on Party Plane USA, have all mandatory paperwork in order. Insurance policies, travelers insurance, notarized letters from your parents or guardians (only if under 18), passport, visas, contact numbers at your destination, contact numbers in case of emergency (family members, neighbors, politicians... no, seriously).
Stop in at your destination's consulate. Know where the American Consulate and Embassy are in the foreign country of choice.
Play it safe and have a great time! Say hello to paradise...
Some of the coolest Spring Break locales
Cancun: Great nightlife, beautiful aqua waters, fun, fun, fun! Try staying at the Melia and Sheraton, they tend to cater to spring breakers with additional organized events! Check out http://www.yourvacation.com/spring_b.html.
Cozumel: The island across from Cancun. Basically, it goes off.
Fort Lauderdale: Still a great place to go, despite all the rumors and laws recently passed. Check out http://www.citysitesetc.com/Springbreak/.
Wollongong, NSW-Australia: What a cool name and great place to visit. Not only is it a great place to break for spring, but it's also great for surfing. An amazing place to experience something new!
Panama City Beach: Places to stay include The Trade Winds Motel, Carabelle House B&B and Pineapple Beach Resort. Check out http://www.yourvacation.com/spring_b.html.
Resources:
Hotel Reservations
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