The Bishop's Stortford Flyer Magazine Bishops_Stortford_Flyer_Jul2018_For_Web | Page 23

Travel The Feature Flyer

Judith Bates , manager of Premier Travel in Bishop ’ s Stortford , advises how to land the best deal for your summer holiday without falling victim to fraudsters

FREE Wine with Premier Travel Holiday bookings !*
We look forward to it all year : a much-needed escape to warmer climates where we can relax by the pool
Judith Bates and enjoy the sun on our face .
Holidays are one of the biggest purchases we make , so the last thing you expect is your airline ticket to never arrive or that the great value accommodation you ’ ve booked doesn ’ t exist . Unfortunately , this happens all too often to those on the search for a great deal for their annual summer holiday .
Last year , a massive 4,700 people were a victim of a travel-related scam . According to a report by Action Fraud , scammers are setting up bogus websites and posting fake adverts for hotels and self-catering holiday properties online and on social media . People parting with their hard-earned cash are lured into buying airline tickets that never show up .
I ’ ve seen first-hand the damage caused by holiday fraud – it can have a massive impact on health , emotional well-being and finances .
With fraudsters increasingly targeting peak holiday periods such as summer , when demand is higher
and availability limited , it ’ s even more imperative that you keep your eyes peeled and don ’ t get lured into something .
There are measures you can take to protect yourself while grabbing a bargain at the same time . Do your research ; check the company is reputable and seek advice from a travel firm if you ’ re unsure . If in doubt , don ’ t book – if a deal seems too good to be true , it probably is !
It ’ s not always true that booking lastminute ensures you the best deal . If you ’ re looking for a summer bargain , it can be better to book as soon as possible to snap up the widest choice of accommodation and flights at the best value . Be flexible with departure airports – selecting an airport that ’ s slightly further away can save you money .
All-inclusive holidays are a popular option for families and if you ’ re restricted to a budget , this type of break is perfect as you won ’ t need as much spending money when you arrive . And always check the validity of your passport if travelling last-minute - it ’ s so easy to get caught out .
The company you ’ re booking through should be a member of recognised travel authority , such as ABTA , as you will benefit from services including financial protection and pre and
post-booking support if anything goes wrong .
If the worst does happen , a travel professional will have your back . Flight cancelled ? No problem , a travel agent will get you a seat on the next available flight . Not sure how to apply for a visa ? You don ’ t need to worry as they will arrange it for you .
Like a doctor , a travel professional will ask the right questions , listen to your answers , understand your worries and offer expert advice to guide you
Don ’ t forget to mention the Flyer when booking !
in making one of the most important decisions of the year – how to spend your invaluable free time .
There are no do-overs for a holiday gone wrong .
You can save up to £ 100 off your holiday at Premier Travel when you mention the Flyer .
For more information on the latest summer deals call Premier Travel in Bishop ’ s Stortford on 01279 838010 or visit : www . premier-travel . co . uk .
Please mention ‘ The Flyer ’ when responding to advertisements THE FLYER | JULY 2018 23