Holiday "Win" - Advice & Help needed

DorsetDave2

I now have "won" 2 holidays which on the face of it appear to be free for the basic package.Reading the small print though is confusing and I wonder if anyone has any knowledge of whether this is a bargain or not.

I have given the details of the Holidays below but I should add that I "won" these holidays when I got the rub off panel cards and had to send away for a code. (I should add I wasnt mug enough to ring the premium rate phone lines they list - but I read through the small print and sent away by post.)

Both of the holidays are issued in the form of a "Complimentary Holiday Certificate"

Holiday 1 is for a 5 day break to Switzerland and Austria for 2 people and the certificate is issued by European and Universal Holidays. Whats included is return travel on a coach from Dover;Ferry crossing;Twin Accomodation(4 nights)and an English speaking Tour Guide. It says optional half board meal plans are also available.They require a £75 refundable deposit per person.

Holiday 2 is a City Break in Paris.Same company as above . Similar conditions as Holiday 1 with excursions optional and £50 refundable deposit per person. There is a "special package" for £65 of "Three breakfasts and Half Day Paris City Tour plus Lunch and Two evening meals at Hotel"

Would be grateful for any advice etc. Am I protected in any way for instance(cant see ABTA or ATOL accreditation)(I can take out my own travel insurance it says.)

Thanks

David

jonesMUFCforever

It is a con pure and simple.
By the time you have 'paid' all that they want (or you will be offered dates at an impossible time for you and from an inconvienient departure point) you could have booked it ourself much much cheaper. (don't forget you lose your deposit if you can't go!!)

barjam_2

my brother won one of these (similar) a couple of years ago he ended up having to pay extra for things then once it was all sorted the company phoned up and cancelled his dates and told him to ring back with other dates when he did they had gone bust:mad: i told him from the start not to trust them but! each to their own:rolleyes: and he didnt even bother trying to get his money back either .....lesson learnt an all that