"Extra" Taxes

[AlohaPride]

Ok, soooooo.....

I originally paid $3156.84 for our cruise this December.

With the recent sale I have an invoice for $2756.84.

This is a difference of $400.

My TA has just informed me that I will only be receiving $378.80 because of "taxes" on the part of HAL.

This is $21.20 short of $400.

I am confused. If I go on the HAL website, and print out a Pricing Summary for the very same reservations, the total comes out to $2756.84 with $158.84 going to taxes. I would like to know if anyone else has had extra "taxes" taken out of refunds before. I am having trouble with my TA who doesn't seem to want to figure this out for me, as she has expressed her "frustration" with all my changes (even though I have only made one). Oh geniuses of the CC Boards, what should I do?

[hammybee]

Aloha: Are you not sick and tired of your T/A yet?

I don't know about "extra taxes" but if this were my cruise, I would take my business elsewhere. There are so many good T/As out there, including those who sponsor and/ or frequent these boards. Any of them would be delighted to have your business.

Frankly, your T/A sounds like she/he does not deserve your business and by all means, do not make a final payment until you have to, cause you never know, the cost might drop again.

[AZjohn]

Oh Mary,
I have been following your story from the beginning and have just been reading and learned from your experience and what all the other CC members wrote you. I want you to know that I truly feel your pain. But reading your post about getting sick and migraines, maybe It would be best for you to just let it go at this point (just my opinion and know other might disagree). When I get consumed with being taken advantage of from someone or some place, my friends remind me of this question:
Do you want to be right or do you want to be free?
In all sincerest kindness, I will ask you the same question..:)
John

[Navy_Chief]

That's strange, we did a price reduction and it was $400 exactly. Well, either way, the difference should show up on your paperwork. This trip was booked directly with HAL. We started out at 3200 (roughly) per couple and have wound down to 2100 per couple with the free motorcoach tossed in. I'm satisfied at this point and I doubt we'll get any lower than that.

[cruisinjudy]

I just changed our cruise to a later date. On the new invoice it says that effective 2/6/06 HAL has raised the taxes for this cruise.

[serendipity1499]

Ok, soooooo.....

I originally paid $3156.84 for our cruise this December.

With the recent sale I have an invoice for $2756.84.

This is a difference of $400.

My TA has just informed me that I will only be receiving $378.80 because of "taxes" on the part of HAL.

This is $21.20 short of $400.

I am confused. If I go on the HAL website, and print out a Pricing Summary for the very same reservations, the total comes out to $2756.84 with $158.84 going to taxes. I would like to know if anyone else has had extra "taxes" taken out of refunds before. I am having trouble with my TA who doesn't seem to want to figure this out for me, as she has expressed her "frustration" with all my changes (even though I have only made one). Oh geniuses of the CC Boards, what should I do?

Tell the travel agent what the HAL fare is tell her you expect a $400.00 refund with no extra taxes paid..You will have to be firm about it & tell her if HAL wants extra taxes you want it in Writing..Not e-mail from her..

[dakrewser]

Ok, soooooo.....

I originally paid $3156.84 for our cruise this December.

With the recent sale I have an invoice for $2756.84.


If you actually have an invoice, then ask your TA for paperwork on the difference. If all you have is the printout from the website - don't bother with it. Just remember you need a new TA.

[DD]

I'm interested in your opinions on cruiseline taxes. This isn't really in reference to the OP's story, but the thread raised my curiousity on the subject of how you expect your TA to treat you when the cruiseline increases the taxes.

If you carefully read the cruiseline's contract, you'll notice that the cruiseline reserves the right to raise the price if certain taxes increase. People often overlook this point because it doesn't happen that often (or at least in their perception it doesn't). It does happen. The cruiseline notifies the TA that the taxes have increased and it's non-negotiable.

I always feel bad when I have to tell a client that the taxes went up on his/her cruise. Sometimes I try to "eat" the extra tax but I can't always do that. If I don't pass it along to the client, it comes 100% out of my pocket. It's not like the cruiseline won't collect the extra from me. They will.

Do you expect your TA to take a loss when the taxes increase on a cruise? Sometimes it's not a big deal, $2, $3, $4. Other times, it can be $40 pp or more. Do you really think less of your TA when they don't "eat it" on your behalf?

I'm curious as to what you expect from your TA. Are you satisfied if he/she notifies you promptly? Are you only happy if he or she takes the loss and doesn't pass the cruiseline's increase tax on to you? Would you prefer that each and every time you book a cruise, the TA informs you that taxes are always subject to change? (I've tried this last route and it just seems to not only confuse clients, it causes them to distrust me because many have never heard of this concept before and so, therefore, they conclude that I must be trying to take advantage of them).

[Navy_Chief]

I just changed our cruise to a later date. On the new invoice it says that effective 2/6/06 HAL has raised the taxes for this cruise.

Now that's strange. I went back and reviewed my confirmation/invoice PDFs from HAL. Our original booking was 170.82 in taxes/fees (booking made in September 05) and the re-booking we did in July 06 to take advantage of a big sale for the same sailing shows the taxes/fees at 170.82. So how can there be a tax increase and further, how can HAL raise the tax rate set by the government? That line on the invoice says "Taxes/Fees" so maybe that "Fee" went up but I doubt the "Tax" did.

[Orlandocruiser]

I received an email from my TA in Feb that the nov 10, 2006 cruise which we booked in Jan would have a 12pp tax increase. Interestingly the HAL web site (and our TA's website) still shows the $96 and change tax that they showed when we booked. I thought perhaps this was an increase that would go into effect before final payment was due but since no one has changed the pricing and its only weeks before final payment is due I don't know what to think. It seems unfair to publish a price and then change it without posting the change on their pricing info. Of course we are all chained to the incredibly pro cruiseline cruise contract that comes with our reservation. (BTW they dropped a port after we booked - they haven't informed us of that or refunded a port charge:( )

[albertiger]

stange coincidence....i was booked on Zuiderdam with a $500 deposit and had to change my plans. I am now booked on Noordam and my new invoice shows my deposit reduced to $479.80. No explanation was given by my TA and i guess i just assumed it was a service fee like the airlines charge for changes. I'm going to ask my TA now but it does seem odd that it is exactly $21.20 like the OP.:confused:

[elmorejj]

Wonder if it could be a fuel surtax/fee? and I wonder how this will affect pax who have already paid in full..........jean:cool:

[Stevesan]

Wonder if it could be a fuel surtax/fee? and I wonder how this will affect pax who have already paid in full..........jean:cool:

Judging from previous posts, it's simply added on to your on board charges.

[dakrewser]

Now that's strange. I went back and reviewed my confirmation/invoice PDFs from HAL. Our original booking was 170.82 in taxes/fees (booking made in September 05) and the re-booking we did in July 06 to take advantage of a big sale for the same sailing shows the taxes/fees at 170.82. So how can there be a tax increase and further, how can HAL raise the tax rate set by the government? That line on the invoice says "Taxes/Fees" so maybe that "Fee" went up but I doubt the "Tax" did.
But you don't know which government may have raised fees or taxes, Bob - could be port fees that went up....

[Stakeout]

a-ha....my guess is that the so-called 'taxes' that your T/A is 'skimming' off the top of your refund is actually the difference in commissions they would be losing because of the price reduction..

[KAKcruiser]

I received an email from HAL raising our price around $50 altogether for the 3 of us because of taxes for our January 2007 cruise. This new price is reflected on their web site. So, it might be a legitimate charge.

[ANSalberg]

Are you'all sure this is "taxes" or could it be a fuel charge? There might also be an add-on by your Travel Agency; Airlines are strongly encouraging people to book "On-line" and eliminate the "middle-man". OUR travel agency is WONDERFUL and has come through for us in times of stress/needs -so we WILL remain loyal and book via them no matter what added charges -simply to keep THEM in business -AND, I might add- they are LOCAL TAs

[elmorejj]

If it would be loss of commission, it would be more than $21.20, HAL pays 15%, so that would amount to $60 or so on a $400 reduction.......jean:cool:

[Navy_Chief]

But you don't know which government may have raised fees or taxes, Bob - could be port fees that went up....

I would tend to agree that port fees went up causing the difference. In my case, we haven't seen a change and we are paid in full. Strange how it hits some and not others :confused:

[dakrewser]

I would tend to agree that port fees went up causing the difference. In my case, we haven't seen a change and we are paid in full. Strange how it hits some and not others :confused:

Different ports?

[Navy_Chief]

Different ports?
Nope our itinerary hasn't changed. can't speek for the OP, different sailing than mine, but that would be a likely reason for a fee change.

[dakrewser]

Nope our itinerary hasn't changed. can't speek for the OP, different sailing than mine, but that would be a likely reason for a fee change.

The fees for a port could increase, no need for a port change...

[AlohaPride]

Ok, so my TA finally got back to me, and the difference is going to HER!! The extra money is for COMMISSION!! I'm just racking up the reasons NOT to use a Travel Agent.

[HeatherInFlorida]

Mary, the same thing would happen with almost any TA unless you were a client of long standing and they decided to "eat it".

This has happened to me and truthfully it didn't bother me. It's the commission difference. She's losing it because the cost of your cruise is less now.

I know how frustrated you are with this agent and can totally understand you'll want to go elsewhere, but she's not doing anything wrong here honestly.

Again, if you had an agent you had used for years ... or for many trips ... they would probably just forget it. But if I remember correctly you have no history with this agent so she really has a right to deduct the commission she would have gotten at the higher rate.

Did I make this too confusing?:confused: I feel like I did:)

[AlohaPride]

Mary, the same thing would happen with almost any TA unless you were a client of long standing and they decided to "eat it".

This has happened to me and truthfully it didn't bother me. It's the commission difference. She's losing it because the cost of your cruise is less now.

I know how frustrated you are with this agent and can totally understand you'll want to go elsewhere, but she's not doing anything wrong here honestly.

Again, if you had an agent you had used for years ... or for many trips ... they would probably just forget it. But if I remember correctly you have no history with this agent so she really has a right to deduct the commission she would have gotten at the higher rate.

Did I make this too confusing?:confused: I feel like I did:)

I'm not mad, and I'm not frustrated about where the money is going. I understand she needs her commission.

What I'm upset about is when I asked her point blank yesterday where the money was going she said, and I quote, "Taxes or something." It has taken me 24 hours to figure out that its going to her commission.

She isn't loosing her commission because I'm paying her the difference from my refund. Had she been open and honest with me, then I wouldn't have had to ask what "extra" taxes might be coming from the refund. Now I completely understand. Again, I just have a problem with not being told the truth as to where my money is going. That's all :)

[RuthC]

I know how frustrated you are with this agent and can totally understand you'll want to go elsewhere, but she's not doing anything wrong here honestly.
I'm not sure I can agree with that. If I were to go to that TA today to book the same cruise/accommodations as Mary, at the same price, then the TA would get the HAL commission. So, she's had to make a change in the original booking---one change!---is it right that she charge for that? If there had been a non-monetary change she couldn't have taken the money. She would have had to let Mary know up-front that there would be a charge to make a change.
This is supposed to be a full-service TA, for heaven's sake! They're not supposed to be nickle & diming everything.

And the thing that makes it appear that she is doing something "wrong" is the fact that she didn't say so in the first place. She made something up and tried to slide out of it. It's only when asked point-blank that she fessed up. She has demonstrated that she can't be trusted.

And that is doing something "wrong".

[elmorejj]

I just don`t see how a TA can "take" money from a customer that doesn`t belong to her unless this was made clear in the beginning. as Ruth said, if someone else books that cruise is she going to say that it was XXX dollars last week and you`ll have to pay me the difference. I think she needs reporting to HAL and the Travel Agents assn.:cool: ......jean

[hammybee]

[/SIZE]
__________________________________________________ _______________

When Ruth C speaks, we all listen.

Mary, please do not judge an entire industry based upon a bad experience with a single agent. ( I am not a T/A)

Perhaps this is a neighborhood business that you wanted to support or maybe it was a referral. But at the end of the day, it's your money and your vacation and this particular T/A has done nothing to warrant your ongoing trust and business. Cruising does not have to be this complicated. There are several agencies that support these boards that have a vested interest in making a cruise the best it can be. They book the CC group cruises and therefore might even be considered stakeholders in our vacations.

Seriously consider taking a deep breath and bring your business elsewhere.

[Navy_Chief]

Well I guess that explains that. Ya know, it would be better all around if the TA said "It's our fee or commission " instead of not being truthful in Mary's case. Shame on the TA for not being truthful!

[AlohaPride]

When I have a problem I listen to my gut.
It usually tells me to eat chocolate.

I couldn't help but laugh as yesterday to deal with my confusion/frustration I went to baskin robins and got rocky road ice cream :D

I really appreciate EVERYONE'S support. It means the world to me. As of now, everything (aside from the $20 going to the TA) is complete. HOPEFULLY there will not be another price drop. If there is one that would bring more than $300 I will DEFINATELY be canceling with my TA - paying the $50 pp/reservation cancelation fees- and taking my business elsewhere. But as of now, I PRAY that there is not another price drop.

I understand that the TA should get the commission for the original price we paid - as she sold the trip. I DON'T understand how HAL is passing on paying that extra commission on to ME instead of paying it themselves. It doesn't really make any sense to me....oh well, I'm ready to just go on my cruise already. I can't wait for this to all be over (the planning that is) :D

[HeatherInFlorida]

Mary, you're absolutely right about her lying to you about what the money was. I missed that part and I apologize. That's underhanded and I would be very unhappy with her. Of course, you already know you don't want to use this TA again.

Ruth, I don't think I explained it well. I had a feeling I hadn't. When you take an amount off the total cost of the cruise, you are lowering the commission for the TA ... in this case by $400. Part of that $400 is her commission (evidently $21.20). So she has a right to that. It would be nice if she'd eat it just for good business, but this woman obviously doesn't fit that description.

A TA could explain it. It's a mathematical thing that I just can't write out, but I've seen it explained and completely understood it. I've used coupons after I've booked and the amount has always been adjusted for the commission.

I'm going to hope that someone smarter than me can explain this.

No matter what, I wouldn't use this TA again either. But it wouldn't be because of the $21.20 ... it would be the lies, etc.

[newmexicoNita]

Let me pop in here now: the $21 isn't worth it for an unhappy client. I am trying to keep up with this entire situation but am getting a little lost. Would I have charged the $21, I doubt it, would my old boss when I worked in the Dallas area? Probably. That is why I like the way I do things now: strict commission, I can do what I want and I want to have happy clients whenever possible. Not always can that happen, some things can't be corrected by an agent and sometimes lousy situations arise, but this shouldn't be one of them. At this stage I wouldn't change agents, but next time find someone who cares about you as much as the almighty buck. There are really good ones out there. NMNita

[AlohaPride]

No matter what, I wouldn't use this TA again either. But it wouldn't be because of the $21.20 ... it would be the lies, etc.

Exactly, I'm tired of pulling teeth to get an answer to my questions...First I wasn't informed about just paying a deposit. Second, she hasn't found good rates. Third, whenever I asked her about something it took forever to get a response, then it was usually followed up with some more questions to pin her down to a clear answer - not to mention her snappy and bad attitude (she even told me she was FRUSTRATED with all the changes I've made)!! I've kept note on EVERYTHING - and I have all the emails. I don't know if I will be following up with her supervisor - not to get her fired, but to tell the company that I will not be able to refer family and friends to their company until service shapes up. Thanks again, Heather, I knew what you were trying to say. I just wanted to clarify the lying part :o

[RuthC]

Ruth, I don't think I explained it well. I had a feeling I hadn't. When you take an amount off the total cost of the cruise, you are lowering the commission for the TA ... in this case by $400. Part of that $400 is her commission (evidently $21.20). So she has a right to that.
Oh no, you explained yourself fine, Heather. I just don't see that the TA has the right to the original commission. Perhaps you are correct that she does. :confused:

Maybe someone on the board who is also a TA will answer that?---

When the price goes down, and you get that lower price for a client already booked, do you "eat" the reduction in your commission? Do you feel you have a "right" to the original amount? Or is that just a cost of doing business?

[RuthC]

Nita, I believe you and I were typing at the same time. And I think you did answer my question, but would you please take a look at it and answer it directly?
Thanks.

[AlohaPride]

Let me pop in here now: the $21 isn't worth it for an unhappy client. I am trying to keep up with this entire situation but am getting a little lost. Would I have charged the $21, I doubt it, would my old boss when I worked in the Dallas area? Probably. That is why I like the way I do things now: strict commission, I can do what I want and I want to have happy clients whenever possible. Not always can that happen, some things can't be corrected by an agent and sometimes lousy situations arise, but this shouldn't be one of them. At this stage I wouldn't change agents, but next time find someone who cares about you as much as the almighty buck. There are really good ones out there. NMNita

I agree. I'm done. Hopefully the prices don't drop again :rolleyes: :p I have a bright Future of vacations a head of me, and one of these days I'll find a TA who will be a TRUE agent :)

[Navy_Chief]

I really wouldn't expect another drop Mary. I think we got all we're going to get. Forget the chump change for now and enjoy your vacation. :D

[hammybee]

[When the price goes down, and you get that lower price for a client already booked, do you "eat" the reduction in your commission? Do you feel you have a "right" to the original amount? Or is that just a cost of doing business? [/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT]
__________________________________________________ ____________

Not being a T/A, I have no idea how commissions work. I am however, a Realtor.

Many times, the buyer and seller agree on price and terms and subsequently, issues arise that cause the contract to become renegotiated. I get paid a percentage of the final $ number, upon closing. If business practice were the same as Mary's TA, I would expect my commission to be based upon the ask price and then would bill my clients for the difference between that and the actual sale price. If this were the case, I would be on the next World Cruise. Granted, the principal amounts of these transactions differ but then again so does the volume. Those T/A's and for that matter, Realtors, looking for customers for life, don't sweat the small stuff.

[Navy_Chief]

Well here's the thing, honesty is the best policy. It doesn't matter what business your in. If a guy working for me goes out to the Data Center Floor and reboots the wrong server, telling me you did that makes all the difference in the world. I'm not going to fire a guy who is willing to tell me the truth that he made a mistake. I expect nothing less from a TA telling me "I can do that but there is a fee attached" yet in Mary's case, the TA flat out lied. I would not do business with that TA again. I appreciate the folks on the boards who are TAs for a living but the bottom line is to be honest if you want to keep the business. (I'm not implying that dishonesty runs in the business)

[LAKNARF]

Hammybee is correct. Commission is an amount based on the amount of the sale. The exact same thing happened to me about 2 years ago on X. I had a Captains Club discount of $50 that was applied after the payment. I believe that $6.50 was deducted from the refund sent to me by X. Somehow they sent the $6.50 to my TA. This was the first time we were using this TA. I called her up explained the situation,she said that she felt the $6.50 was hers(silly woman). A few months later we saw her in a store and she wanted to know when we were going on our next cruise. I told he we have 2 more booked.................elsewhere. Silly woman

[HeatherInFlorida]

Laknark, exactly. That was the same in my case. It was a $50 coupon after the fact and I got the credit of all but $8.20.

That's why they ask you to present all discount offers, coupons, etc., up front so they can build it all in and give you the bottom line figure after they've taken their commission. So if it's before the fact they can say your price is $1000 (they've already added in their commission) minus your coupon of $50 equals $950.

Over dinner, this was eating at me and I think I can say it better now (let's hope!!!:) )

When a TA quotes you a price for a cruise, they have already added in their commission on the total amount of that cruise. When we say, "oh but look, HAL shows the price going down" or "I have a coupon now", that brings the price down but they haven't been able to take their commissin off that amount.

So an agent like Nita, who wants to keep her clients and make them happy, will forego that $8.20 or $21.20 or whatever. Good business. But a nitpicker TA is going to say "Okay fine, but I want my cut of your discount".

Any clearer? I promise I give up now.:D

[newmexicoNita]

Laknark, exactly. That was the same in my case. It was a $50 coupon after the fact and I got the credit of all but $8.20.

That's why they ask you to present all discount offers, coupons, etc., up front so they can build it all in and give you the bottom line figure after they've taken their commission. So if it's before the fact they can say your price is $1000 (they've already added in their commission) minus your coupon of $50 equals $950.

Over dinner, this was eating at me and I think I can say it better now (let's hope!!!:) )

When a TA quotes you a price for a cruise, they have already added in their commission on the total amount of that cruise. When we say, "oh but look, HAL shows the price going down" or "I have a coupon now", that brings the price down but they haven't been able to take their commissin off that amount.

So an agent like Nita, who wants to keep her clients and make them happy, will forego that $8.20 or $21.20 or whatever. Good business. But a nitpicker TA is going to say "Okay fine, but I want my cut of your discount".

Any clearer? I promise I give up now.:D
Thanks Heather; here is an example of what sometimes happens: a client contacted me about 9 months ago; it was a referral from someone else and neither of them even live in NM. Anyway she wanted a particular cruise even knew the date. There were 2 cabins involved: I booked what she wanted. It was an inexpensive cruise with a small commission but it was a rather easy one and I knew what I was doing: After booking she told me she had a discount of $150 per person because of a problem she and DH had on the same ship last summer. Ok, we applied the coupon; then she had a 2 cat upgrade because of being a frequent passenger on the line. Final amount for a week long cruise $499.00 for two. I would never enter my mind to adjust the coupon so I could get a little more commission> After sending a small gift to the cabin you wouldn't want to know what I will make on this one. The other cabin booked was normal. Do I regret doing this? NO; sometimes you get easy ones that are suites with very handsome commissions, sometimes you do well to make $30, but every client deserves (that doesn't look like it is spelled right?) the same treatment. Now that I have patted myself on the back I think I will go and talk to DH for awhile. LOL

[Cruiseoften]

There are two sides to every story and we’re only hearing one! Seems to me we’re dealing with an inexperienced, and understandably very excited (impatient), first time passenger dealing with an equally inexperienced TA.

I can’t fathom that full payment was insisted on – booking in July for a December cruise, many travelers (ourselves included!) :) would be figuring out how to save enough for the balance payment due some time mid-September! HAL (the line we travel with most) will without question allow at least 7 days before even the Deposit need be made…. that's the time to think things through, research and ask questions before making a commitment.

It appears that the quoted price was not a ‘one shot deal' about to expire that very day.

I wonder if a CC was used? What does the statement show? If a check, payable to the Agency was handed over, I have to wonder if only the deposit was sent to HAL - the balance could well be in the agency’s bank account!

Somewhere in this long ‘thread’ it says the TA was ‘frustrated’ – can’t say I’m surprised when the passenger is checking with HAL staff in efforts to get things changed (in case the TA wasn’t looking after it!), changing air plans etc. :rolleyes: :eek:

Better I think, that I say no more. There are just too many “ifs and buts” – besides, I’m in Canada and the ‘game’ is in the US……. the rules are different.

[DD]

a-ha....my guess is that the so-called 'taxes' that your T/A is 'skimming' off the top of your refund is actually the difference in commissions they would be losing because of the price reduction..

I can't even begin to tell you how unethical that would be and I find it hard to believe that any decent TA would do that. Taxes are taxes. They belong to governmental authorities, not your TA.

[DD]

Oh no, you explained yourself fine, Heather. I just don't see that the TA has the right to the original commission. Perhaps you are correct that she does. :confused:

Maybe someone on the board who is also a TA will answer that?---

When the price goes down, and you get that lower price for a client already booked, do you "eat" the reduction in your commission? Do you feel you have a "right" to the original amount? Or is that just a cost of doing business?

When the price goes down, my commission goes down. That's life. It's not usually all that drastic. I only get a % of the commission the agency earns so I'm not nickle and diming the client over a couple bucks. It's a cost of doing business. Sometimes it's a once-and-done easy sale and you could say it's easy money for doing a job that I love. Other times the client has a gazillion questions and requires tons of hand holding and the price drops a couple times and I end up doing more work for less money. That's life...can't take it out on the client.

[DD]

When a TA quotes you a price for a cruise, they have already added in their commission on the total amount of that cruise. When we say, "oh but look, HAL shows the price going down" or "I have a coupon now", that brings the price down but they haven't been able to take their commissin off that amount.

No, that's not true. Let's say the price from the cruiseline is $1000 per person including all taxes and fees. If a client buys directly from the cruiseline, the client will pay the cruiseline $1000. If a client buys from a travel agent, the price will be $1000 per person OR LESS if the TA is discounting.

We don't add the commission onto the total. It's already in the total. How much of that commission the agent is willing to give back to the client in order to earn his/her business, is up to the agent and the agency for which he/she works.

What you're talking about does exist in some areas of the travel industry. It's called net pricing or something similar where the TA buys the product at net (cost) from a wholesaler and then adds on a commission to cover the cost of the TA's services. That would be extremely extremely rare in cruising (and would most likely come from an obscure cruiseline rather than one of the majors).

[fcorey]

Well here's the thing, honesty is the best policy. It doesn't matter what business your in. If a guy working for me goes out to the Data Center Floor and reboots the wrong server, telling me you did that makes all the difference in the world. I'm not going to fire a guy who is willing to tell me the truth that he made a mistake.

Chief does that also apply to someone who was curious and pushed that big red button on the wall???:D

AlohaPride, I think that you have been very patient and restrained with someone who seems a bit shady. I was not too sure about using an online TA, I used one, not listed on CC, but headquartered not too far away in Rhode Island. Only reason for that was if things...were difficult, I could always drive over to their HQ/office/storefront. The recent price reductions and a room change later, they havent charged me any additional fees, have always been direct, and responsive. For that reason I wouldnt hesitate to use them again. They have earned my business. However, that being said, I'd like to find a local TA near me. Firstly to support a local business but also because when you have problems you have an experienced allie who will help you resolve things. I am so glad that these experiences havent soured your desire to cruise and I wish you a great trip.

[HeatherInFlorida]

No, that's not true. Let's say the price from the cruise line is $1000 per person including all taxes and fees. If a client buys directly from the cruise line, the client will pay the cruise line $1000. If a client buys from a travel agent, the price will be $1000 per person OR LESS if the TA is discounting.

We don't add the commission onto the total. It's already in the total. How much of that commission the agent is willing to give back to the client in order to earn his/her business, is up to the agent and the agency for which he/she works..................).

DD, I didn't say you add the commission into the total. You misunderstood. I said the commission is built into the quoted rate. Let's say HAL is charging $1000 on their website. I might come to you and you'll say the rate is $900. Built into the $900 is your commission of $50 give or take.

So what I was saying was that you wouldn't tell me the cost was $850 + $50 commission. But if HAL then brings the price down by $400, your commission (for this portion of the cost) has not been built in. That's the part I was referring to.

Nita, you are a wonderful TA and I have gained a whole new respect for you. Obviously you are a proponent of the belief that we have to spend money to make money. Works almost every time ... enough so it's worth it.:)

[lvtotrvl1]

As a TA myself, I would never have taken the commission back, however, after reading through the posts and the past OPs posts, I do believe there are two sides to every story, and we are only hearing one.

When the price goes down on a cruise, the commission lost is normally so small, why would a TA want to lose a customer over , let's say 21.00? It really doesn't make sense.

There are great TA's out there, and unfortunately there are some that should not be in the business....these TA's won't last. It's unfortunate that TA's on the board for the most part are constantly put down because of a few bad apples.

[newmexicoNita]

As a TA myself, I would never have taken the commission back, however, after reading through the posts and the past OPs posts, I do believe there are two sides to every story, and we are only hearing one.

When the price goes down on a cruise, the commission lost is normally so small, why would a TA want to lose a customer over , let's say 21.00? It really doesn't make sense.

There are great TA's out there, and unfortunately there are some that should not be in the business....these TA's won't last. It's unfortunate that TA's on the board for the most part are constantly put down because of a few bad apples.
Thanks lvto.

Nita

[MercedMike]

I am having trouble with my TA who doesn't seem to want to figure this out for me, as she has expressed her "frustration"

WELLLLLLL --

Whatever you do about the extra charge -- the next thing to do is to vote with your feet and FIND A NEW TA!!!

;o)

Mike

[DD]

DD, I didn't say you add the commission into the total. You misunderstood. I said the commission is built into the quoted rate. Let's say HAL is charging $1000 on their website. I might come to you and you'll say the rate is $900. Built into the $900 is your commission of $50 give or take.

So what I was saying was that you wouldn't tell me the cost was $850 + $50 commission. But if HAL then brings the price down by $400, your commission (for this portion of the cost) has not been built in. That's the part I was referring to.

We're probably on the same page. You did say "added in" though:

Quote:
Originally Posted by HeatherInFlorida
When a TA quotes you a price for a cruise, they have already added in their commission on the total amount of that cruise. When we say, "oh but look, HAL shows the price going down" or "I have a coupon now", that brings the price down but they haven't been able to take their commissin off that amount.

I wanted to make sure that no one thought that we add commission on top of the price that the cruiseline charges. It's never going to cost you MORE to go through a travel agent (unless you have a poor travel agent).

[HeatherInFlorida]

We're probably on the same page. You did say "added in" though:

Quote:
Originally Posted by HeatherInFlorida
When a TA quotes you a price for a cruise, they have already added in their commission on the total amount of that cruise. When we say, "oh but look, HAL shows the price going down" or "I have a coupon now", that brings the price down but they haven't been able to take their commissin off that amount.

I wanted to make sure that no one thought that we add commission on top of the price that the cruiseline charges. It's never going to cost you MORE to go through a travel agent (unless you have a poor travel agent).

DD, hate to nitpick (but it's my nature;) ); actually I said when the TA quotes a price they have "already added in" the commission (meaning it's included in the quote).

In the end, I've never known a time that it wasn't cheaper to use a TA, not more. But you're right ... we're on the same page:)

[gizmo]

In the end, I've never known a time that it wasn't cheaper to use a TA, not more. But you're right ... we're on the same page:)

LOL. ;) This happened to my brother. He talked to a local brick and mortor TA and got some prices. Called Carnival, and they were cheaper for the same ship, date, and cabin so he booked with Carnival.

Eventually he transferred it to a well known internet TA and got better prices then another reduction and a real upgrade (better cabin, larger balcony).

[avalon1025]

Cruise fare and port charges are relatively stable, govt fees change daily and weekly. They can move by a few $$ or by $10-$20pp based on when you make your resevation. I all has to do the with ports being visited and the timing of the booking. Back off your T/A they have no control over govt fees imposed by the cruise lines. Be happy you saved money in total.

[AlohaPride]

There are two sides to every story and we’re only hearing one! Seems to me we’re dealing with an inexperienced, and understandably very excited (impatient), first time passenger dealing with an equally inexperienced TA.

I can’t fathom that full payment was insisted on – booking in July for a December cruise, many travelers (ourselves included!) :) would be figuring out how to save enough for the balance payment due some time mid-September! HAL (the line we travel with most) will without question allow at least 7 days before even the Deposit need be made…. that's the time to think things through, research and ask questions before making a commitment.

It appears that the quoted price was not a ‘one shot deal' about to expire that very day.

I wonder if a CC was used? What does the statement show? If a check, payable to the Agency was handed over, I have to wonder if only the deposit was sent to HAL - the balance could well be in the agency’s bank account!

Somewhere in this long ‘thread’ it says the TA was ‘frustrated’ – can’t say I’m surprised when the passenger is checking with HAL staff in efforts to get things changed (in case the TA wasn’t looking after it!), changing air plans etc. :rolleyes: :eek:

Better I think, that I say no more. There are just too many “ifs and buts” – besides, I’m in Canada and the ‘game’ is in the US……. the rules are different.

First of all, I HAVE told the whole story. You can read other postings about this particular TA and see that I have remained constant in the fact that she is not being helpful/honest.

Secondly, full payment WAS insisted. I was told that she could hold the booking for 6 days and then payment was due. Did she clarify that payment meant only a deposit? No. She said payment and sent me an invoice for the full amount. It never occurred to me that some people would make plans when they didn't know they would be able to fully pay for said plans a head of time.

It does appear it wasn't a one shot deal. But I was told by my TA AND by HAL that it was a weekend special. Yet another reason I feel duped. I can even post the emails from HAL and my TA saying it was a special - if you would like? Seeing as you don't seem to trust me anyways.

If you absolutely need to know, I used a debit card. $3156.84 was taken out for the first booking (according to my bank statement). My second invoice shows that my new charge will be $2756.84. Sooo...obviously I was expecting a refund of $400. When my TA told me my refund is going to be $378.80 I asked what was happening with the $21.20. I didn't demand the money be returned, I just keep meticulous notes and wanted to file into these notes exactly where my money was going.

And yes, HAL did take the money directly from my account.

I don't know about changing Air plans....I've asked for a refund, and this is a full service TA. I expect her to do her job. However, as she wasn't working on a Saturday I took it upon myself to ensure the special would apply when she called on Monday. I have the freedom to call who ever I want. If my TA is "frustrated" that I've been following up...then she needs to learn how to do her job in a timely manner. I have emailed her and gone DAYS without contact on many occasions. If I weren't following up with HAL I wouldn't have anyway of knowing the ACTUAL HAL policies.

I find it funny that you can feel for the TA's frustration, but not the frustration of the "inexperienced, and understandably very excited (impatient), first time passenger." I told my TA I had never cruised. You would think that a GOOD TA would have taken my DH and I under her wing and informed us of everything.

I have been nothing but forthcoming in EVERYTHING that I have posted. I take your sarcasm and questioning as an insult to my intelligence.

BTW, if you look up this company with the BBB, you will find they have complaints of the same nature as mine. Guess I'm not the only "inexperienced, and understandably very excited (impatient), first time passenger "

As I have said before, I'm VERY grateful to those on the CC Boards who have shown nothing but support. I have learned so much from this experience. My Original Post was a simple question asking about taxes because I wanted to know if anyone had had a similar experience. about a day and a half later I found out the truth of the so called "taxes" and immediately posted those results. I have held nothing back.

[HeatherInFlorida]

Mary, don't worry about it for a second. Yes, you were completely forthcoming and upfront about everything and Cruiseoften arrived late and seemed to feel a comment was necessary.

Also, Cruiseoften is in Canada and as stated, things may be different there.

I hate to see you so upset. Just because you're new to cruising doesn't mean your TA should have been so obtuse. This whole thing was terribly handled and no one could see it any other way.

But as you say, you've learned a lot. There's nothing in this world like a "life lesson", right? You live, you learn . Chalk it up. The next time around you'll be here giving advice to the next guy.:)

[AlohaPride]

But as you say, you've learned a lot. There's nothing in this world like a "life lesson", right? You live, you learn . Chalk it up. The next time around you'll be here giving advice to the next guy.:)

Thanks, Heather! I am actually really grateful I learned all these lessons on our first time out.

I can't wait for the day I can give advice to the next guy :D I love being able to help, and feel that I've only been receiving help thus far. :rolleyes: I actually can't WAIT to get my docs, go to NY, take our cruise, and then come back to the boards with TONS of info - and a GREAT review :D

[obriendan]

Mary,

I think you made you case very well and stated the facts clearly!

And of course, we expect TONS of info on Hawaii in October!:)

[newmexicoNita]

Mary,

I think you made you case very well and stated the facts clearly!

And of course, we expect TONS of info on Hawaii in October!:)
Not only a full report, but please don't let this sour you on travel agents. NMNita