USTOA offers help

The United States Tour Operators Association and member companies say they are coming to the aid of travelers affected by the bankruptcy of Far & Wide Travel Corporation. Travelers whose deposits or payments for future travel with Far & Wide were made by credit card are advised to contact their credit card company, suggested USTOA President Bob Whitley. Travelers whose credit card companies will not reimburse them or those who paid by check or cash are eligible to file a claim for reimbursement through the USTOA $1 million Consumer Protection Program. To further assist affected travelers, more than 35 individual USTOA member companies have offered to honor Far & Wide deposits paid, or to provide other assistance. Some companies have offered to try and duplicate original Far & Wide itineraries for passengers, while other USTOA companies will evaluate traveler arrangements on a case-by-case basis. Because of various conditions, Mr Whitley urges travelers to check with each company individually. Claims must be filed by December 31 of 2003. Other details are available on the USTOA Web site: www.ustoa.com.