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When you surf over to a cruise win or cruise giveaways agency's Web site, or dial up their 800 number, you may be speaking with one of the top cruise-only wholesalers in the country, a local franchisee of a large full-service travel company, or a very skilled cruise expert at a small traveling agency. Or, it may be a novice operating off of his or her kitchen table.

So, how can you tell the difference and find an excellent, reputable travel agent or agency -- and avoid a bad reservation experience?

Unfortunately, agents tell us that the travel company is not well-regulated, and just about any person can just print up corporation cards, hang out a shingle and start marketing travel. The majority of states do not need any type of registration, certification, licensing or client protection measures for travel agencies, although this is beginning to change. Bottom line: It is important to know who you are doing business with.

Your best bet is to converse to associates, co-workers, family and associates and ask them if they know of a good, reliable, local agent who specializes in cruise sweepstakes. But here are a little more tips for avoiding cruise travel scams -- and spotting a less-than-reliable agency and guarding your expenditure before it's too late.

Payment with a credit card. For your better protection against either a dishonest seller of travel or potential supplier bankruptcy, always pay for your cruise fare -- both the primary deposit and the final payment -- with a main credit card such as Visa, Mastercard or Amex. Under the Fair Credit Billing Act, you are entitled to safety (via a chargeback of disputed fees to your account) if a retailer fails.

Important note: This protection may not apply to those who are debit or check cards; it's important to verify rules with your issuing bank just before you charge.

Be sure your money is in the correct hands. After you've made a payment, review your credit card or bank statement and make sure that any applicable charges originate immediately with the cruise line, not with the travel agency. That way, you'll understand that the cruise line has surely acquired your money. If you need to pay by check or money order, it should be made payable to the cruise line -- not to the company or to an individual.

Get appropriate confirmation of your booking. Ask on getting the true cruise company verification numbers, not just a confirmation number from your agency. Not only will you then know that your information and money is in the right hands, but you'll also be able to preserver shore excursions, restaurant plans and spa appointments (where available) on the cruise line's Web site.

Cruise Sweepstakes:Just How You And Your Entire Family Members Can Evade Cruise Travel Scams
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