Technology has come a long way and we are now able to book our own travel with just the click of a button from a phone. You may be thinking, “what do I need a travel agent for? I can do this myself”.
But did you know that your trip is not protected if you don’t book through an Ontario registered travel agency?
If you book with a TICO (Travel Industry Council of Ontario) registered travel agent, whether it’s in person, over the phone or online, you are protected. And this protection applies, regardless of where the traveler lives. As stated by TICO, “if a consumer purchases travel from an Ontario-based agency – even if he or she does not reside in Ontario – he or she is covered by the Ontario Compensation Fund”.
As a consumer, you have some rights under the Travel Industry Act including:
-protection for any travel services you paid for and did not receive during or before the trip because of the bankruptcy or insolvency of a:
• travel agent or travel wholesaler (such as a tour operator) registered in Ontario
• an airline or cruise line
-it may also cover reasonable replacement costs you must pay to complete a trip such as:
• transportation
• accommodation
• meals
A TICO registered travel agent is also required to provide you with information that is often overlooked such as any travel warning or advisories, and visa requirements for any destinations you’ll be visiting.
To book travel, click here
Independent agent operating under Narat Inc. TICO# 50015192
*Information from: Consumer Protection Ontario. Booking A Trip: Your Rights. https://www.ontario.ca/page/booking-trip-your-rights (Retrieved January 28, 2018)
Tina Ware 