Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: MONDAY, January 3, 1994 TAG: 9401030069
SECTION: NATIONAL/INTERNATIONAL PAGE: A-4 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: Associated Press
DATELINE: WASHINGTON LENGTH: Medium
"It's a sales gimmick. I don't think I see anything wrong with it," said Bates, now a political consultant in San Diego and part-time rancher in Idaho.
Bates is among a number of Americans who, without any relevant training or qualifications, are getting travel agent credentials that entitle them to huge vacation discounts and VIP treatment.
Bates, a Democrat, said he purchased a card that identified him as a travel agent a couple years ago and was happy to get the discounts.
His name was used by World View International of San Diego in advertisements that said for $495 anyone could become an "independent contractor" and get cut rates.
"In three trips, I saved over $1,000. I'm sold on World View and recommend them to my friends," said the Bates testimonial.
The former congressman, who said in an interview he does not recall paying $495 to World View, said he has no complaint with the travel agency, which claims thousands have paid to become its "independent" agents.
Tim Donlan, who heads World View, did not return repeated calls to his office.
Those who purchase credentials or get them from friends receive no formal training. Travel agencies generally do not require their employees to undergo training.
There is little law enforcement can do to address the problem, says one California prosecutor who has looked into the matter but decided there's no ground for prosecution.
Fearing a black eye to the industry, travel agents trade groups are taking matters into their own hands by developing a counterfeit-resistant identification card aimed at exposing scam agents.
by CNB