Category: travelclub

Are You Road Trip Ready?

by hotelsetc, posted in business travel, discounted travel, holiday travel, Home, travel, travel club, travel tips, travelclub

When it comes to “getting away from it all,” many Americans are skipping the pricey trips abroad and opting to enjoy the many amazing, closer-to-home sights from the comfort of their own vehicles.

If you’re planning a getaway, remember that road trips can be tough on cars, and few things turn a vacation into a nightmare quicker than breaking down in the middle of nowhere. So, before you load the car and take off, make sure that your vehicle is in tip-top condition.

A pre-trip inspection as part of an overall maintenance program can give you peace of mind and help prevent costly repairs.

Inspect and repair, if needed, the following:

Radiator and cooling system, including the water pump, fan, and thermostat

Brakes, brake pads, and brake linings

Battery and cables

Belts and hoses

Engine oil and oil filter

Wiper blades and washer fluid

Tire pressure and overall tire condition (including the spare).

Most importantly, don’t leave on a long trip with your car’s “Check Engine” light on.

The Check Engine light appears when your vehicle’s On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) computer detects a problem. According to several state Air Pollution Control Districts, the Check Engine light is designed to limit air pollution, as well as alert drivers to a condition that can waste fuel, shorten engine life and result in potentially expensive repairs.

If the light does come on, a quick check of your vehicle’s service manual can often identify the problem and a course of action.

Those who take their car to a mechanic often find that technicians use a diagnostic tool to scan their vehicle and access trouble codes at a cost of $55 to $100.

A new automotive tool, with a Web site, lets consumers run their own diagnosis, enabling them to verify the mechanic’s assessment.

Called CarMD, the tool provides a basic overview of probable problems with the car’s electronic and emissions-related systems. It incorporates the same basic technology as tools used by mechanics but is said to cost less and can be operated by anyone. A green light indicates that all systems are “go,” a yellow light signals a possible problem and a red light mean there is a current problem and service is required.

For more in-depth information, simply plug the tool into your personal computer and turn it on. It will connect to the company’s Web site and provide a comprehensive report on your vehicle’s health, including possible problems, estimated fixes and repair costs.

Enjoy your trip and remember don’t leave without your Hotels Etc. membership in the event you need a hotel at up to 75% off or need automotive discounts, we have you covered.

private label discount programs

Charleston South Carolina Hotels – Your Complete Travel Guide.

by hotelsetc, posted in business travel, discounted travel, holiday travel, Home, Hotels Etc Travel Club Blog, travel, travel agent, travel club, travel discounts, travel tips, travelclub

Where do you like to trip off to for a quick getaway? I think we all have those places that we enjoy time and time again. Those timeless spots that somehow draw us back every year, or even a few times a year. I know I have a few locations that irritate my fancy regardless of the season. One of those retreats is Charleston, South Carolina. This is one of the classic cities left in America. So if you’re looking for something like LA or Las Vegas, this old-world southern town is certainly not it. The first time I visited this city was in 95. I can even recall the first time I laid eyes on the wonderful paved streets. The historic district had a certain incomparable burn to it. My wife and I stayed at a cozy inn that provided complimentary wine and cheese in the night hours. That’s so cool I’ll never forget that hotel. Speaking of lodging, these days you can acquire Charleston South Carolina hotels via the Internet. Times sure are a hanging.

If Charleston, South Carolina is a place you’ve never been, then I suggest you give it a shot. With the variety of Charleston South Carolina hotels at your fingertips, it’s rather easy to plan a two-week vacation or a simple weekend trip. There are a number of facilities to choose from. Since this fine city sits in a coastal state, great seafood and hush puppies are easy to come by. Enjoy a carriage ride through the historic district, or check out the nightlife and fine ales. When you venture off to Charleston, a whole new world is at your disposal. One of the greatest attractions for me was the haunted tour. I encountered this exciting adventure the second time I visited. Like Savanna, Georgia Charleston also provides a tour of its ethereal history
This can be a blast.

Are you searching for Charleston South Carolina hotels well, if you’ve wised up and turned to the World-Wide Web for guidance, then I would suggest some good research? The key factors when browsing for Charleston South Carolina hotels or any hotels for that matter is the quality of the rooms, the price, and the location. If you can find them all, then you’re golden. Your search for Charleston South Carolina hotels is made simple and suitable with the Internet. Plan that perfect
trip today.

How To Simplify Your Life And Travel The World

by hotelsetc, posted in Home, travel, travel club, travel discounts, travel tips, travelclub, vacation, vacation club, vacations

Tired of the constant stress of your life? Are non-stop phone calls, faxes, email messages, and meetings driving you crazy?

You’re not alone. Studies show most people are stressed to the breaking point. They also would love to simplify their lives and travel the world.

Imagine living on a remote tropical island, enjoying the warm sea breeze, local food, and an easy-going atmosphere. You do this while earning a good income, doing the work you enjoy, and all in a far more relaxed way than you work now.

While this might sound like a scene from a movie or the online offer from a get-rich-quick scheme, simplifying life and traveling the world is rather easy to do — IF your know-how.

Dr. Otto Weizman developed just such a system. Dr. Weizman spent most of his life traveling the world, not as a tourist but running a global business. Over the years he became tired of living out of a suitcase and meeting continuous deadlines. Life was interesting, even exciting, but the stress and demands of business left him tired and frustrated.

Weizman began working out a simple system for anyone who wants to get away from it all and work somewhere else in the world. Based on the vast store of tips and techniques he had learned in his travels, Weizman was able to see opportunity in ways most travelers didn’t even know existed.

1. Start by simplifying your life. Weizman correctly felt the huge onslaught of advertising messages we get every minute of every day is the source of much of our stress. Get off junk mail lists, email lists, and make sure your phone number isn’t on call lists.

2. Rest assured you CAN do the kind of work you love just about anywhere in the world. If you think a person like you could only work in your current country, remember that almost every industry is now truly global. It’s a fair bet there are workers just like you in dozens of desirable locations around the world.

3. Don’t worry about “dropping out” and not being able to stay in touch. Dr. Weizman showed you can stay completely connected via phone, email, and fax even from the most remote desert island. The Internet cafe is a fixture in almost every country of the world. Cell phones are now ubiquitous. If you WANT to be in contact, you will.

4. Keep in mind money flows differently in other countries. Credit cards work well in most places, but take some time to get to know how local residents handle financial transactions. They’ve had the advantage of what method is most reliable, most acceptable, and most economic.

Above all, don’t ever feel like you’re trapped in your current situation. Anyone who takes the time to learn how can freely travel the world, enjoying wonderful destinations, while still earning a good income doing what they love. Most important thing is to always keep your eye open for travel discounts.

by hotelsetc, posted in discounted travel, holiday travel, Home, travel, travel club, travel discounts, travel tips, travelclub

Want to go to a new exciting place, but don’t have anyone to tag along? There may be times when you have to travel alone in a foreign land. Whether just for fun or on official business, you have to take safety measures. Traveling alone need not be lonely. It could be fun in more ways than one. Don’t be reluctant to travel just because you’re on your own. Just remember these things:

*Plan ahead
Research and read about the place you’re heading to. Know where are the nearest hotel, restaurant, and such. Make reservations too, if possible. That way, your travel is on a good start.

*Take a city map
You better study how to read maps. Needless to say, these can guide you where you are going, especially if it’s the first time you’re going to that place. Relying too much on the cab driver is not a good idea.

*Learn the language
Just study the basics and the most common things you’re likely to ask a local. Learn it before you arrive.

*Hide your valuables
Put your guard up. Don’t invite muggers to come and get you. Don’t wear too much jewelry outside the streets. Use inexpensive accessories.

*Dress appropriately
Check what the locals wear on a given time of day. You don’t want your clothes screaming you’re a tourist. The lesser attention you draw to yourself, the better.

*Don’t be afraid to ask for directions
It would be okay to ask someone for directions, but be sure you are going to choose who to ask. You can ask a waiter in a restaurant, or the receptionist in your hotel. Just be sure you get all the information. Asking from a complete stranger outside is not advisable.

*Bring some cash
Take just enough. Traveler’s checks and credit cards are good, and it could be your primary mode of payment, but you might want to keep a few extra dollars in your pocket with local money.

*Enjoy your self
Well, you are traveling, so make the most of it. Make friends with a local. Talk to somebody over lunch in a café. Get the addresses of the friends you make to send them a thank you card. Maybe next time, you’d be their host.

Traveling alone can be your best experience. With solo traveling, you will definitely learn more about your self and what you can do. Try it. It would be fun!

Keep in mind using travel discounts will help you save a ton of money.

Are You A Victim Of Telemarketing Travel Fraud?

by hotelsetc, posted in business travel, discounted travel, holiday travel, Home, travel, travel agent, travel club, travel discounts, travel tips, travelclub

Hello…you have been specially selected to receive our SPECTACULAR LUXURY DREAM VACATION offer!

Have you ever been tempted to sign up to win a “free” trip at a fair, trade show or restaurant? If so, you may get a phone call, letter, unsolicited fax, email or postcard telling you that you’ve won a vacation. Be careful. It may be a “trip trap.” The vacation that you’ve “won” likely isn’t free. And the “bargain-priced” travel package you’re offered over the telephone or Internet may not fit your idea of luxury.

While some travel opportunities sold over the phone or offered through the mail, the Internet or by fax are legitimate, many are scams that defraud consumers out of millions of dollars each month.

The word “offer” can be a clue to hidden charges. When you get the phone call or place the call in response to a postcard, letter, fax or Internet ad, you also get a sales pitch for a supposedly luxurious trip – one that you could pay dearly for.

The salesperson may ask for your credit card number to bill your account for the travel package. Once you pay, you receive the details of the “package,” which usually include instructions for making trip reservation requests. Your request often must be accompanied by yet another fee. In addition, many offers require you to pay upgrade costs to receive the actual destinations, accommodations, cruises or dates you were promised. Some offers may require you to pay more for port charges, hotel taxes or service fees.

See a pattern developing? New charges are being added every step of the way. You may never get your “bargain” trip because your reservations may not be confirmed or because you must comply with hard-to-meet hidden or expensive “conditions.”

Telemarketing travel scams usually originate out of “boiler rooms.” Skilled salespeople, often with years of experience selling dubious products and services over the phone, pitch travel packages that may sound legitimate, but often are not. These pitches usually include:

Oral Misrepresentations. Particular schemes vary, but all fraudulent telemarketers promise you a “deal” they can’t possibly deliver. Unfortunately, you won’t know it until your money’s gone.

High Pressure/Time Pressure Tactics. Scam operators often say they need your commitment to buy immediately or that the offer won’t be available much longer. They typically brush aside questions or concerns with vague answers or assurances.

“Affordable” Offers. Unlike fraudulent telemarketers who try to persuade people to spend thousands of dollars on an investment scheme, fraudulent travel telemarketers usually pitch club membership or vacation offers in a lower price range. The offers sound reasonable and are designed to appeal to anyone who is looking for a getaway.

Contradictory Follow-up Material. Some companies may agree to send you written confirmation of your deal. However, it usually bears little resemblance to the offer you accepted over the phone. The written materials often disclose additional terms, conditions, and costs.

How To Protect Yourself

Unpleasant surprises can ruin a vacation, especially when they cost money. That’s why it pays to investigate a travel package before you buy. But it can be difficult to tell a legitimate sales pitch from a fraudulent one. Consider these travelers’ advisories:
Be wary of “great deals” and low-priced offers. Few legitimate businesses can afford to give away products and services of real value or substantially undercut other companies’ prices.

Don’t be pressured into buying. A good offer today usually will be a good offer tomorrow. Legitimate businesses don’t expect you to make snap decisions.
Ask detailed questions. Find out exactly what the price covers and what it doesn’t. Ask about additional charges. Get the names of the hotel, airports, airlines and restaurants included in your package. Consider contacting these businesses directly to verify arrangements. Ask about cancellation policies and refunds. If the salesperson can’t give you detailed answers, hang up.

If you decide to buy, find out the name of the travel provider – the company that is getting your reservations and tickets. This company usually is not the telemarketer.
Get all information in writing before you agree to buy. Once you receive the written information, make sure it reflects what you were told over the phone and the terms you agreed to.

Don’t buy part of the package – the airfare or hotel stay – separately from the rest. If the deal is not what you expected, it may be difficult to get your money back for the part of the package you purchased.

Don’t give your credit card number or bank information over the phone unless you know the company. One easy way for a scam operator to close a deal is to get your credit card number and charge your account. Sometimes fraudulent telemarketers say they need the number for verification purposes only. Don’t believe them.

Don’t send money by messenger or overnight mail. Some scam artists may ask you to send them a check or money order immediately. Others may offer to send a messenger to pick up your payment. If you pay with cash or a check, rather than a credit card, you lose your right to dispute fraudulent charges under the Fair Credit Billing Act. If you charged your trip to a credit card, you may dispute the charges by writing to your credit card issuer at the address provided for billing disputes. If possible, do this as soon as you receive your statement. In any case, the law gives you up to 60 days after the bill’s statement date to dispute the charge.

Check out the company before you buy. Contact the Attorney General in your state or where the company is located to see if any complaints have been lodged against the travel firm or the travel provider. Be aware that fraudulent businesses often change their names to avoid detection.

If in doubt, say “no.” Trust your instincts. It’s less risky to turn down the offer and hang up the phone.

Be sure to research the company to determine if there are any complaints and how long they been in business.

Where to Complain

Several organizations can provide additional information and help you with complaints.

Your state Attorney General or the Attorney General in the state where the company is located probably has a division that deals with consumer protection issues.

The American Society of Travel Agents, Consumer Affairs, at 1101 King Street, Alexandria, VA 22314, may be able to mediate your dispute with an ASTA member.

The FTC works for the consumer to prevent fraudulent, deceptive and unfair business practices in the marketplace and to provide information to help consumers spot, stop, and avoid them. To file a complaint or to get free information on consumer issues to call toll-free, 1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357); TTY: 1-866-653-4261. The FTC enters the Internet, telemarketing, identity theft, and other fraud-related complaints into Consumer Sentinel, a secure online database available to hundreds of civil and criminal law enforcement agencies in the U.S. and abroad.