Visit Florida has warned that UK consumers are being misled by bogus travel promotional companies masquerading as the state's official tourism bureau. The tourist office stressed that it does not "sell or solicit" travel packages over the telephone or engage in "high pressure tactics" to sell Florida holidays. A statement added: "Consumers are never required to make any form of payment to enter or win a Visit Florida sponsored or endorsed promotion or sweepstake. No other entity officially represents the states, even if they are using a name that sounds like they are." Visit Florida cautioned consumers not to give their credit card details to anyone unless they are absolutely sure the vendor is credible and reliable. "If in doubt, always check the credibility of a vendor before providing financial or personal information," the statement added. The tourist organisation recommended that holiday packages be booked through and ABTA or ATOL-bonded company to ensure passenger protection is in place. Visit Florida warned that bogus firms operating from the state will not respond to direct consumer complaints. Instead people should contact the Florida Department of Agriculture Division of Consumer Services – www.8000HELPFLA.com - which has the power to shut down such companies. Report by Phil Davies

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USER COMMENTS

Lisa Schreier Director, Timeshare Insights 27 September 2005, 17:19:57 GMT trial memberships are scams I paid $3000 for a trial membership and signed contract with Millennium Vacations International, only to find that the funds went to a resort named Brockwood Hall in UK. Have tried to get refund and accommodations as per contract to no avail. My best advice stay clear of this business from the UK operating out of Orlando Florida, so be warned.   Charlie Biehn 14 September 2005, 19:31:24 GMT Mortgage payments I feel somewhat sorry for anyone that gets conned out of their money. But in this day and age why on earth she would even talk to a time-share peddler while on holiday is beyond me. I'm sure the seller was a 'really nice guy' that you 'trusted'. They all are, until they are found out and then they are rats. I'm sure that by lying on a document it is/will be used against you should this ever get to a courtroom. Anything that looks too good to be true is.   SEAN HARTE 13 September 2005, 12:22:02 GMT FLORIDA BAD EXPERIENCE I am pleased with you comments ref:bogus companies operating in Florida. My wife visited Florida 2003 with my son.She was approached by a company Westgate Resorts (time share)she was pressurised in to signing agreements etc for a property ,SHE WAS FORCED TO LIE about her martial status~to say that she was single to qualify, paid several thousand dollars and is been harrassed every since for mortage payments, service fees etc..can we do anything about this.??. Thank YOU Sean Harte