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When you surf over to a cruise win or cruise giveaways agency's Web site, or dial up their 800 number, you may be speaking with one of the top cruise-only wholesalers in the region, a local franchisee of a large full-service travel business, or a very knowledgeable cruise expert at a small traveling agency. Or, it may be a novice working off of his or her kitchen table.

So, how can you tell the difference and find a good, reputable travel agent or agency -- and avoid a bad reservation experience?

Sadly, agents tell us that the traveling industry is not well-regulated, and just about any individual can just print up corporation cards, hang out a shingle and start selling travel. The majority of states do not require any type of registration, certification, licensing or client protection measures for travel manufacturers, although this is beginning to change. Bottom line: It is most important to know who you are dealing with.

Your best bet is to discuss to associates, co-workers, relatives and associates and ask them if they know of a good, reputable, local agent who specializes in cruise sweepstakes. But here are a little more tips for reducing cruise travel scams -- and spotting a less-than-worthy agency and protecting your expenditure before it's too late.

Payment with a credit card. For your best protection against either a dishonest seller of travel or possible supplier bankruptcy, always pay for your cruise fare -- both the primary deposit and the ending payment -- with a primary credit card such as Mastercard, Visa or Amex. Under the Fair Credit Billing Act, you are entitled to safety (via a chargeback of disputed fees to your account) if a merchant fails.

Important note: This protection may not apply to those who are debit or check cards; it's critical to ensure policies with your issuing bank just before you charge.

Be sure your money is in the right hands. After you've made a payment, review your credit card or bank statement and make sure that any applicable charges originate immediately with the cruise line, not with the cruise agency. That way, you'll be aware of that the cruise line has definitely acquired your money. If you need to pay by check or money order, it should be made payable to the cruise line -- not to the agency or to an individual.

Get appropriate verification of your reservation. Insist on getting the true cruise company confirmation numbers, not just a confirmation number from your agency. Not only will you then know that your information and money is in the right hands, but you'll also be able to preserver shore excursions, restaurant plans and spa appointments (where available) on the vacation cruise line's Web site.

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