Going On Holiday - Beware Of The Scams

Travel scams aren't a new concept. Anyone who regularly enjoys that yearly holiday understands the ins and outs of avoiding scams while traveling. Infrequent travelers are often taken advantage of by rip-off artists looking for their next victim. Holidaymakers must arm themselves with extensive knowledge of the area they intend to visit while planning their travels.

Popular holiday spots like Tenerife and the other Canary Islands are fairly highly populated and less prone to local scams. Many scams travelers run the risk of falling prey to include taxis or other public transportation taking the "scenic route" to and from destinations. Long trips cost more when paid per unit of measure.

Shopkeepers have also been known to increase prices on products or services when they suspect their target buyer is from out of town. Make a few phone calls prior to booking your holiday so you have a good idea of the general price of goods. Any time a shopkeeper is asking a price that you feel is too high, simply walk away.

Airfare, timeshare and holiday rental scams are also very popular ways unscrupulous sellers take advantage of travelers. Many of these scams include the transfer of money via wire transfer, money order, cashier's check or some other form of transfer that does not protect you, the buyer.

Fake timeshare and travel clubs use tracking cookies on their websites to find out exactly what you're planning to buy. They often put incredible packages together at amazing prices so you feel that you're getting a great deal. Unfortunately, many of these travel clubs and timeshare companies are only out for your money, not to make your holiday memorable.

Tips to Avoid Holiday Scams

Look at Maps: Geographic familiarity with the area prevents the likelihood that you will be scammed by transportation providers. Check out some of the locally written articles on a popular Tenerife blog to see what has been happening lately.

Check Prices: Price checking before your trip will familiarize you with the general price of goods and services in the area you plan to visit.

Conversion Rates: Understanding monetary conversion rates goes hand-in-hand with checking prices and being prepared financially for your trip.

Use Credit or Debit Cards: Book as much of your trip as possible using a card or other payment method that protects the buyer against scams.

Unsolicited Contact: Don't book your trip with some random company that contacts you out of the blue. Things that sound too good to be true usually are.

Contact Your Bank: Your bank or financial institution can better protect your funds as long as they know your itinerary. Call immediately if your card or information is compromised.

Traveling to the Canary Islands

The Canaries are among the most popular holiday spots year-round. The climate is mild to warm throughout the entire year. The warmest months are July, August and September and the coolest months are December, January and February. The cooler months may see temperatures drop as low as 59 degrees Fahrenheit but are generally in the low 60s Fahrenheit.

Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands and home to the highest mountain peak in Spain. Many parks and family adventures await visitors who like to plan their trip thoroughly. Whether you plan every nuance of your trip or simply plan to have fun and relax, keep in mind these tips to help you avoid holiday scams.

Article Source: TravelFreeGuides.com

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Tribune produce a travel guide that includes reviews of Algarve villa holidays

by: Mellieha Bay

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