Good tip. Using Google and the other search engines is a good way to find out what people are saying about a company. As is using sites like Facebook and Twitter when you search for their brand names.

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Thanks for the comment! I think part of the problem is that they are too many bonding schemes and there’s confusion amongst consumers. I agree that using brands you are familiar with will not mean your holiday is safe, this point was more towards the scam sites out there which get you to give your credit card details, but don’t book your hotel. It’s risky booking a holiday nowadays and I think consumers need to be more educated – hopefully I can continue to do that but it takes the industry/government to do more, as I am just a small travel blog.

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There are many bonding schemes that travel companies use, not just ATOL, that will protect your money. It’s important that customers ask about the bonding that the company uses, so they are not restricted to only ATOL bonded ones. This will increase choice and you may get a better deal, all with the necessary protection included.

Only booking with brands you are familiar with won’t guarantee non-failure of that company (Globespan?). Your point of looking for contact details and going with your gut instinct is a good one, as there are many smaller/newer companies out there that are well aware of their responsibilities and operate great holidays!

Looking forward to us all having great holidays in 2010!

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The great thing about the web is that people that get ripped off tend to complain about it on the web, and you can be richer for the experience.

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