A traveler’s protection guide

An Italian tourism group has recently put together a handbook that outlines the different ways that tourists can ben scammed while visiting Italy.

More importantly, it also tells about how to avoid to become a victim.

Adiconsum is an Italian tourism association dedicated to defend both consumers and the environment. General Secretary of Adiconsum Simon Grace says that the quality of service is one of the most important factors for the success of the tourism industry in Italy.

Adiconsum set up what is called the “Ten Commandments”, a list of helpful information for tourists in order not to become victims of scams, as well as how to achieve proper compensation in the event of a con or rip-off.

1- Keep the contract of sale of the package that has been signed for the holidays and package brochures.
2- Keep your travel tickets.
3- Safely store any slips or carry-on baggage in case of lost luggage.
4- The accompanying statements present at the time of the package’s sale have been recognized by the courts as testimonial evidence, and can be added to those of other individuals and families who have experienced poor service on site during the holiday.
5- Take photos of places, especially those that do not correspond to the places shown on the brochure.
6- Keep receipts for all expenditures made to remedt the situation of hardship suffered.
7- Whitin 10 days of return, send a letter to the tour operator and/or the travel agency with the preicse and detailed description of the damage and a request for compensation.
8- It is recommended to attach to the copy of the receipts relating to the expenditures incurred. All original documentation must be present only if you decide to sue.
9- In addition to compensation for expenses incurred, it is advisable to also refer to the psycho-physical stress damage that is suffered and the damage from a “ruined holiday”.
10- In the event that the counter party does not accept your complaint, you must take the case to the court.