Help! I think I'm being ripped off by a Travel Agency!

[Diversteve]

I booked a flight to NZ with a reputable company or so I thought(They are quite well known) I was quoted a fare for a return in 11 months for myself and my girlfriend. I agreed the sum �1610 over the phone and was also e mailed the itinerary and fare. I paid the full amount over the phone and as far as I was aware, that was it. 3 hours later the agent rang me to say she'd made a mistake and I could have a refund because it was only for 6 months max stay.... Now my question is.. am I right in thinking my old A level law still stands? I.e. A contract is based on offer and acceptance. Since I have accepted and paid for what was quoted over the phone AND e mailed to me IN WRITING are the company not required by law to cover any additional cost to their accepted quote. Please advise so I can go all guns Monday am!!

[cupra]

It may hinge on wether a payment was taken from you - you say you paid over the phone but do you know if the payment was debited from your (I assume) credit card? If it was then you will be in a good position!

[Diversteve]

Yes, the full amount was taken out of my bank account on Saturday. I have an itinerary in writing with the price. So...... is it a case of "Offer", "Acceptance" and the "Consideration" being my �1610 fully paid. My 'law' is a bit rusty I'm Afraid!

[gilf]

As with many similar examples, I would say in law you are correct but its going to be a fight to get it in your favour. Its all well and good quoting laws but companies don't tend to respond.

[Diversteve]

Just to keep you updated Cupra, I spent Sunday brushing up on my Contract Law. And you are correct, The fact that money was taken from me was "Consideration", and the final part of a legally binding contract. As of this am, I got my flight for the value I paid for and an apology to boot. And, gilf, it's surprising what A level law can do when you Quote laws correctly. And you'll find most companies employ salesmen and not legal students and value their reputation. Thanks for your...er ..'help'. And thanks again Cupra!

[cupra]

Well done, Diversteve! It's refreshing to hear the Travel Agency playing fair and giving you the flights (I hear of dozens of problems with travel companies on the local BBC radio consumer show), so a well done to them as well!

[gilf]

No problem, I make a mental not to not bother answering your questions in the future.

[Diversteve]

Doh! Gilf, what have you just done! now go run at the nearest wall.