Greetings,
My son’s college baseball team advanced in the playoffs on April 30, 2024 to play Indian River State College in Fort Pierce on May 3-5, 2024.
On Wednesday morning, May 1, 2024, I looked on line for a hotel a friend in the area had recommended …. Capt. Hiram’s Resort in Sebastion, FL. I located a number I assumed was directly to the resort … [protected] and called at 10:17 am cdt. The representative identified themselves as Capt. Hiram’s reservation’s. After, providing my trip details, I was advised this location was unavailable and I was offered a property “next door”. Later learning it was about two miles away. This location was Sportsman Lodge also in Sebastion. We had other parents booked at Capt. Hiram’s so proximity was an issue for me. I proceeded with the booking criteria asking repeatedly if I could cancel. Each time, I got a response regarding a refund option. After, being assured that a refund would be available, I booked the reservation. This feature added an additional fee that was unknown to me at the booking. I was only provided a total amount of $509.22. My confirmation number was H8378896.
Within an hour, my wife learned that the team had secured a much more convenient hotel for the parents and families of the team.
I looked at my confirmation email and proceeded with the refund request. This was handled by a third party (Protecht Inc.) During the refund process it was only then I was provided with a specific list of valid reasons. Relocation was not among them. I sent three separate emails asking for a phone call to discuss, but only got a couple of rejection emails.
The next day, I spoke directly to Sportsman’s Lodge and was told they were unable to help. They had run into this before. I let them know I would not be staying there so they could book my room. The lady at the desk was very apologetic and even gave me a follow up call later in the day. Only then, did I learn, I had been booked by an outside booking agency. The booking email address on the receipt was [protected]@m.expediapartnercentral.com. Leading me to believe this company is an Expedia affiliate.
After speaking with Sportsman’s Lodge, I was provided a new phone number, [protected]. I called this new number and was able to formally cancel my reservation but again declared Non-Refundable on my receipt.
Upon my return, I went to my bank and signed a “payment dispute” notice. Not sure, if that will help or not.
On May 16, 2024, I spoke extensively with Sportsman Lodge manage Angela Augenstein. She was able to determine that this failed booking was indeed handled by Expedia. He correspondence offered a full refund was authorized.
In summary, I was badly misled about my options to cancel or at least obtain a refund. I was not told I was dealing with a third-party booking agency, when I thought I was speaking with Capt. Hiram’s resort. I was not told the refund privilege was available at an additional charge. I am a regular traveler and have never run into a situation like this. I have called the original booking phone number trying to get additional details on the company to file this complaint. Even today I was told by Representative Gerry (sp?) that the company did not have a name.
One more thing. The booking company charged me $509.22, while booking directly with Sportsman Lodge was only $286.72.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
David Clay
[protected]
Addtionally,, to the provided documents, I am trying to determine the actual company name and address to offer the Better Business Bureau
Claimed loss: 509.26
Desired outcome: Full Refund
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my email address is david.clay3020@gmail.com
Cell number [protected]
David Clay
David, this is outrageous. You've been deceived and taken for a ride by these booking agents. Here's what you need to do: Don't let them off the hook. Start by contacting Expedia directly, since it appears they were involved in this mess. Demand an immediate refund and make it clear that you won't back down until you get your money back.
Follow up with your bank about the payment dispute. Push them to escalate the issue and recover your funds. Don't take no for an answer. Make sure every communication is documented, every email saved. If Expedia or the booking company continues to stonewall you, take it up a notch.
Consider legal action if necessary. Speak to a lawyer about your options. These people need to know they can't mess with you and get away with it. Stay relentless and don't let them get away with this scam. Your hard-earned money deserves better treatment. Fight until you get what you rightfully deserve.