The Year of the Snake’s Spring Festival is just around the corner, and many citizens can hardly wait. Besides going back home to visit relatives, quite a few are already planning their travel routes—either joining a tour group or going on a self-driving trip—to unwind after a year of stress. What should you keep in mind when traveling during the Spring Festival? On the 28th, the Municipal Tourism Bureau issued a 2013 Spring Festival Golden Week travel alert for citizens’ reference. Meanwhile, the Municipal Tourism Supervision Team accepts tourism complaints 24 hours a day at 12301.
Check the travel agency’s qualifications before going abroad
Travel agencies operate under an administrative licensing system. Those organizing tours abroad must have the proper outbound tourism business qualifications. Many travelers choose to visit Europe, America, Southeast Asia, and other destinations during the Spring Festival. When signing up, be sure to inquire about and verify the agency’s business qualifications to avoid disputes.
Don’t be fooled by “low-price tour packages”
During the Spring Festival, many tourism businesses run enticing ad campaigns for their routes. Some agencies use “low-price tour packages” as a marketing gimmick but add paid activities or shopping stops along the way. Travelers should view such offers rationally.
When inquiring about travel products, carefully ask about “package pricing structure, additional paid items, and shopping arrangements,” and objectively assess your expected expenses.
Clarify the details of your package tour contract
Before departure, tourists should sign a travel contract with the agency and read it thoroughly. Make sure all details are clear, including information about the local receiving agency, itinerary sequence, accommodation and dining standards, scheduled time for visiting included attractions, and liability for losses caused by force majeure.
Don’t get so caught up in fun that you become a target for thieves
With large crowds during the Spring Festival, while enjoying the holiday, make sure to keep cash, mobile phones, cameras, and other valuables safe, and don’t give thieves a chance. Travel agencies and tour guides should also properly safeguard luggage that passengers can’t carry with them and leave in the tour vehicle. Before leaving hotels or getting off the tour bus, double-check to ensure nothing is left behind.
Don’t get mesmerized by gold and diamonds
Based on previous complaints and disputes, some tourists tend to shop impulsively overseas, buying large amounts of gold, diamonds, jade jewelry, and only later realize the high prices, requesting refunds. Additionally, when shopping, keep invoices and other evidence safe. If you can prove that purchased items are “counterfeit or substandard,” you can seek legal recourse.
Keep your distance while skiing to avoid collisions
In winter, many tourists opt for leisure activities like hot springs and skiing, but may not be aware of their potential risks. On one hand, travel agencies should clearly inform customers about unsuitable participants and safety precautions. On the other hand, before signing up, tourists should honestly disclose their health conditions based on the agency’s inquiries. Especially for skiing, follow the instructions of resort staff, choose slopes that match your skill level, and maintain a safe distance from others to avoid accidents.
For road trips, monitor weather conditions and beware of smog
Recently, the Ministry of Transport announced that during the 2013 Spring Festival, tolls will be waived for small passenger vehicles on national expressways. Many travelers may opt for “self-driving tours.” With more vehicles on the road, air quality could worsen. The Tourism Bureau reminds travelers to check weather forecasts before departure and try to avoid routes or destinations with severe weather such as smog, rain, or snow.