Worst Travel Scams

These are a particularly evil strain of the bait-and-switch prices that bedevil the entire travel industry. You're quoted a low rate for a resort hotel—say, $90 a night. But when you arrive, you're told there's a mandatory $19.95 "resort fee" that includes many items that ought to come with your room, like the beach towel, TV, and use of the exercise equipment. Why break it out like this? Because it makes the room look cheaper, mostly. Try wiggling out of one by claiming you don't use the exercise facilities or visit the pool, and you'll be informed the fee applies to everyone. Hotels in Las Vegas and Hawaii are the worst offenders. Always ask about the resort fee before you book, and if there is one, try another place. You don't want to do business with a scammer.