Feature Details
- Frequency: 1/wk
- Release date: Tuesdays
- Moves with art: No
- Moves with multimedia: No
- Available: International, U.S. & Canada
The Travel Troubleshooter
Christopher Elliott, National Geographic Traveler's ombudsman, NPR commentator, consumer advocate and travel industry critic, writes "The Travel Troubleshooter," a straight-talking, reader-friendly advice column for travelers. His weekly Q&A takes a reader problem and follows it through to the industry officials. He also offers advice on navigating the ins and outs of questionable hotel deals, airline come-ons and mystery cruise-ship surcharges.
The Travel Troubleshooter Samples
Want an airline to change? Then speak with a million voices
When it comes to customer service, travel companies constantly push the limits with fees, surcharges and onerous policies.
Insurance didn't cover my cruise
When Christine Rehak cancels her cruise after her husband's death, she assumes her travel insurance will reimburse her vacation. Q: I am hoping you can help me get a refund for a cruise that my husband and I booked last June with Princess Cruises.
Would a US Airways-American merger be good for travelers?
If it happens, the expected union of US Airways and American Airlines could be one of the last big legacy airline mergers, if not the last one.
Hey, what happened to my points?
When Jonathan Govias tries to transfer 6,000 points from one frequent flier program to another, they go missing. Q: I'm having an issue with Points.com I thought you might be able to help resolve.
A chaotic computer switch in United-Continental merger
At United Airlines, they called it the "cutover." But some United passengers referred to what happened in March as something else: chaos.
Insurance wasn't required -- how about a refund?
When Todd Ramsdell's wife rents a car from Budget, she's told insurance is required. Q: My wife rented a car at the Orlando airport from Budget recently. She reluctantly accepted the loss-damage waiver. Can you help us get our money back?
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