Complain about a product or service

Ramada Plaza - Assorted Complaints

Deborah of Carrollton GA (08/29/08)
I was hoodwinked into buying a vacation. I actually only paid for 1/2 of it. He made it sound wonderful. 3 day cruise, 3 days in Orlando, Williamsburg, Va, Las Vegas and Mexico. I paid an additional $25 for an identical vacation for a friend. I was told the dock for ship was in Port Canaveral because other ports were too far for me to drive and I couldn't afford airfare. I got the paperwork, It was in Miami, a 13 hour trip from my home. Furthermore, I am a single mother who couldn't afford to take this vacation and I didn't so the time came to a close. I couldn't get a refund for the 350.00 I paid.

I lost 350.00, now I am out of work and couldn't take the vacation anyway but I couldn't pay the other half and could get no refund.

Ron of Broklyn NY (08/24/08)
this is for a vacation pkge. down payment from 9/2000 was first solicited via. mail and than sold over then pressure sold on phone and and told i could be put on a payment plan and didnt have to take trip for another year while i dealt with a jab related disibility wasn't able to take trip as well. in 2003 i believed i call to check on the $700. i paid for this pkge and was told that i was given a one shot deal or as before would loose my money. call again about the refund some time later and was offered the same one shot deal

incured interest charges and fees as a result puting a down payment on a charge card which i had to use or would loose this 1 day special-am asking for the money i gave away

Nicole of Oconomowoc WI (08/21/08)
I purchased this so called vacation on 2/27/2007. I had 18 months to book this vacation. I made a call yesterday 8/20/2008 to book the vacation and the specialist told me that either I had to pay $57.00 to extend the package or I would be out the $498.00 deposit. After I told her that I would be contacting consumer affairs she stated that, I should do what I feel neccessary. Instead of being out the whole $498 I went ahead and purchased the extension, and paid an additional $398 to make my reservation for 9/26/2008-10/02/2008, and was told about additional fees that I would have to pay upon arrival.

This is a complete scam, and I think this business should be shut down, and people's monies should be refunded. By the way, I had asked the specialist if I could speak with her supervisor, and she stated that they rarely take a phone call, and she was as high as I could go. What a disaster, but I didn't want to be out of my $498.

Robert of Fort Myers FL (08/19/08)
I sent a check in the amount of $50 to secure a reservation in Orlando,Fl at a Ramada Inn for 7/3 to 7/5/08. The deposit was supposed to be refundable according to company literatue. Despite numerous phone calls and the promise they would make the refund I have not recd the $50.

Robert of Fort Myers FL (08/18/08)
this company has not returned my $50 deposit despite numerous calls since 7/08

David of Aimwell LA (07/30/08)
Checked in 07/24/08 at around 5pm. The next day we noticed that our baby's feet were black on the bottom and discovered that the carpet was causing this. We called the front office. Immediately they named another room that they could move us to. They said that they would send mangement to move us. We called them about 6pm and finally had to call them back at about 6:40 to tell them that we would pick the keys up to the new room and move our things ourselves. The reason was that we had show tickets to Dixie Stampede.

When we returned from the show we tried to get into our old room. We couldn't get in. When we went to the new room all of our things we there except for the clothes that were in the drawers in the old room. We immediately called the front desk and told them. They said that it would be a while before management could bring them because they were busy. We waited and waited. During the wait we tested the carpet. We placed our little one on it -- bare footed. Within thirty minutes her feet were black. The carpet was filthy. Not only was the carpet dirty that would have been bad enough, but a bug was in our oldest daughter's bed. And we killed two bugs in the bathroom. This hotel was horrible!

Back to the clothes -- we never got them that night. We got back on it the next morning. We called the front desk and kept asking for the manager. They did not want to speak to us when they found out who it was. We went down to the front desk. We told them that we would be checking out of the hotel immediately, but we wanted our clothes. They couldn't find them. Someone had taken them. They had rented our old room out. And they had moved our things without our permission. We tried throughout our whole trip to get our things back and to deal with Ramada, however, they feel that they are not at fault. Yet they are the ones that came into our room and moved our things without permission -- things are stolen.

About the clothes that were taken: among those things are 7 T-shirts, Victorian baby clothes on hangers. Plus a cell phone charger. The cell phone charger was in one of my oldest daughter's bags. Someone had to have gone through our things to have found it! Each one of the dress are costly -- from $25 to $45 a piece.

Susan of Harleysville PA (07/24/08)
They have been calling, sometimes several times a day, for the last 10 days. We are on the national do not call list and have made them aware of that. I do not know how they got my number. I did not give it to them. I have asked them repeatedly to remove my number from their list and to stop calling. I do not want to receive any more calls from them.

Shareen of Lawrenceville GA (07/15/08)
This complaint is about 2 packages that were purchased from the Ramada Plaza Resorts. Let me start by saying these trips was sold to me under false information. I purchased the first package a year or so back for 689.00 and wanted to add 2 adults and 3 kids so I called to talk to someone about adding additional people. When I called I spoke with a representative by the name of Karen. After going over what I wanted to do she advised me the cheaper thing to do was to purchase a separate package from the original package I had. She told me she would also give me 2 free Disney tickets if I paid on the package that day.

I gave her a deposit of 398.00 that I was told was my port taxes. The balance of 456.00 was left. I called her a week later to get a few more details of the trip and got another representative that had me very confused about the package. I asked the rep to put me thru to Karen and she told me Karen was busy and she would help me. After almost an hour of total confusion I demanded my money back. She then put me on hold for another 15 minutes and I was connected to Karen.

I told Karen what had happen and she told me the type of package I had the other reps wouldnt understand so I should deal with her only. I told her at that point I wasnt sure anymore. She assured me every thing was ok gave me her supervisors name and number Harry. She told me if I couldnt get her to call him and he would be able to help me. I told her I would be calling in February to pay in full and I didnt want to go thru what had happen that day so could we set a date for her to call me. She then gave me her personal cell number and told me I could call her and she would call me back. I felt sure everything was ok.

I was under the impression the package reservation was for 2 adults, 2 kids with 2 free Disney tickets, free food vouchers, and the hotel which was going to be 12-15 per day taxes, the cruise was paid in full and 100 fuel refund. This package was paid for in full February. The first package I had I added my 18 month old daughter to for 79.00. Harry ended up taking 40 dollars off the price because I paid for an upgrade on the car that I now didnt need because we was renting a van. This package was for 2 adults, 1 infant, hotel that would be 12-15 dollars per night, and the cruise. I upgraded the hotel to the ocean front hotel for 99.00 extra dollars and upgraded my cruise cabin also. Karen was very persistent that I upgrade the 2nd package because we will be at different hotels and I should upgrade. I wasnt will to pay anymore money.

We finalized the details and I thought I had all cost covered. What a joke. The details of this nightmare are as follows: I arrived at the Ocean Front Hotel. This 3 star hotel was horrible. It had Prostitutes at the bar, parking was a nightmare and the tub water took half a day to go down. If this is a 3 star I would hate to see anything below that.

To top it off the taxes was 20.00 per day per room. That was an additional 120.00 paid out that was I expecting to pay no more that 90.00 for. We ended up staying away from the hotel most of the time to keep away from the traffic coming in and out of the bar. We couldnt even find parking due to the locals taking all the parking. The 1st 3 days was unsatisfactory. The next 2 days what would The Regal Empress be like. What another joke.

After finally getting passed all the security points we was informed there will be an automatic 30.00 fuel charge per person. Its 7 of us, 4 adults and 2 kids and a 18 month old. Thats an addition 210.00 that we werent told about. Actually there was also an automatic gratuity charge of 20.00 per person. Now thats 50 per person. We are at 350.00 extra dollars that we werent aware of.

The cruise was surprisingly nice. So the 20.00 for the adults was ok its 20.00 for the kids that I thought was outrageous. And Ramada should tell people that they charge a gratuity fee. I am sure they knew.

Next we go to the Welcome center in Orlando with the impression that this has to get better at least we got the 2 free Disney tickets. Again what a joke to, my surprise I had to pay 50.00 for the tickets that I thought was free. I called the 888 number and spoke with a rep. She told me in my package it specifies I had to pay 50.00 for the tickets. After 15 minutes of me trying to explain to her I never received a package that broke down my trip just a confirmation letter via fax she finally told me Adrian was in a meeting and I should call him back in 10 minutes.

I called Adrian back and he told me I was told I had to pay 50.00 for the tickets. I told him the lines are recorded and I want to listen to the phone conversation that told me I had to pay 50.00 for the Disney tickets because I am 100% sure I was not told that. He then told me the calls are randomly recorded so there was no recorded line. After going back and forth with him for 45 minutes I hung up. This has been the worse trip ever. I took my family and expected better.

I am requesting a refund for 20.00 gratuities, and 30.00 fuel charge I paid for my 18 month old daughter and my 5 year old niece that I wasnt told about. I am also request a full refund for the hotel taxes I was told were going to be 12-15 dollars a night per room that ended up being 20.00 per night, per room, and my package.That is a total of 909.00 dollars.

I hope someone will be in touch with me to rectify this matter ASAP as I will pursue the matter to the fullest. As if I dont have any more to complain about. I called the 888 number to ask how I go about getting the 100 per package fuel charges and to my surprise I have to send in the gas receipts. Well I wasnt told that I would have to do that so I dont have all the fuel receipts. The rep (Lamercie) asked me if I have bank statements. I told her I have some but I was with 2 other adults and we were splitting the cost. We paid for most of the fuel in cash and didnt get a fuel receipt. I told her I have the rental agreement. She told me to send it all in along with this letter. Another disappointment I am enduring.

Teresita of Miami FL (07/07/08)
Dear Sirs, I was very disappointed with my recent stay at the Ramada Inn, Hollywood Beach Resort. I had reserved and rented 3 rooms for the 4th of July weekend. Rooms 779, 715, and 707 were given to me. Originally when I called I was told that the two rooms I reserved first were going to be ocean front. To my surprise, they were not.

First of all the front desk clerk tells me they have no ocean front, only ocean view. None-the-less when I made my phone reservations I was told ocean front and unless the English language has changed to accommodate the large number of immigrants we now have in Florida ocean front is a window that faces the ocean. Not a side window in which you can get a glimpse of the ocean. However, I was corrected at check out and told that ocean side is considered ocean front. I guess my English needs improvement.

Then to continue my dissatisfaction the other ocean front/ocean view room was not available because the people that originally rented extended their stay so my cousins had to be given a different room also not ocean front and at the other end of the long hallway. However, they were promised a 20% discount. Although my discontent continues I feel that at no time was anything done to make my stay a bit more pleasant.

Room 707, where my cousins parents stayed went one day without a/c. and one day with the refrigerator broken.

Room 715 did not get room service their entire stay. They had the same towels for the entire weekend, their beds were made by them, and the room also a bad gas stench. One might consider that dangerous.

Last but not least room 779 had a bathroom clog for two days. I don't understand we are paying $169.00 and the service was pathetic.

To top it off we had asked for an extension which was given to us for an extra $55.00. We were to check out at 5pm. But because by the time the bell hop brought all our stuff down it was 5:15, the front desk clerk reprimanded me as if I was a kindergarten student and she was my teacher and or mother. Give me a break. Take care of your guest before you reprimand them for and extra 15 minutes which was the hotels fault to begin with since their service was so terrible.

This was my 4th year staying here because the rates were usually good. But I can assure you it will be my last. The service and treatment was unacceptable. Oh and lets not forget how the clerk did play stupid to try and avoid the 20% discount that was promised on one of the rooms. Although it was noted in the computer she tried to ignore it. It seems to me that someone needs to re evaluate those rooms and consider reimbursing 20% on the other 2 room that also had problems. Thank you

Nanette of Sacramento CA (06/24/08)
I agreed to purchase a vacation package from them for 798.00, but I advise I can only make pymts as I can't afford to pay for the trip up front. The rep agreed to charge my debit card 99.00. After we end the call I check my account and the whole amount of 798.00 was pending on my account.

When I called customer service to complain I was told that I would not get my money back for 72 hrs. Now I don't have any available funds in my account until the hold is released. They refuse to call my bank to release my money immediately, they claim it is against their policy.

I then cancelled the whole vacation and was told I won't get the 99.00 back for 7-10 business days. I told her this is bad business practices and illegal to charge my debit card for an UNAUTHORIZED amount. She said that this is the way their independent contracted sales offices conduct business. They charge the card the full amount and offer you extra perks for the vacation if you pay for it all up front, but if you decline they issue a refund. I told her I was reporting them for FRAUD she said you do whatever you feel like you need to do.

I had to ask for food since we didn't have any and we missed the kids swim programs that they are in for the summer due to no gas. Not to mention the embarrassment from having to accept handouts from friends/family after they heard this horrible story. Oh lets not forget the emotional stress and headaches this has caused.

Marguerite of Waldorf MD (06/18/08)
In May of 2003 I got a call from a rep at Ramada Plaza Resorts herein RPR. The first question the gentleman asked me was if I was still a major credit card holder. I said no, I don't use credit cards. He asked if I had a bank card with a visa or master card logo and I answered yes. He went on to tell me about the vacation plans and suggested it was for myself and husband; in which I said I was single and would be going alone. He then said fine 'you can take the vacation by yourself'. He led me to believe I could take advantage of the offer as a single person. After hearing the details about the vacation I explained that I was disabled. I told the guy that I was a survivor of 6 brain surgeries, 2 major heart attacks, the lost of my right eye and that I was facing more surgery. He included that he was sorry for all I had been through and said 'you could use a get-away and we'll make everything comfortable and handicap accessible for you'.

I asked if it were one of those deals where you are obligated to go and or a time sharing offer. He said 'no'. He then went on to tell me how I could pay in installments because of my fixed income situation. And the payments began. I called RPR in November 2004 because I had to have total hip replacement and my heart problems worsended. I then learned that the vacation was in fact for double occupancy and had to pay for another person. I asked to speak with upper management and was told that was impossible. I was told that I could not ever get what monies I paid to them back and that I had to extend the expiration date; so I paid to extend in order to buy time to figure out what I could do to resolve the matter at hand.

In 2005 I had to have my left knee replaced, 2006 my right knee and learned that medication induced osteoperosis had caused multiple fractures to my spine. I called RPR again to learn that they would not be yielding and return my money and wound up paying for another extension. I asked about the car rental agreement included in the package and submitted that I did not have a major credit card which was required by the sponsoring car rental company/Alimo. I learned more and more that I would not be able to take the vacation as the truths about the package were unfolding. To date, I have gotten reports of the RPR vacation package from 3 family members and 8 friends who all told me RPR would not be able to accomadate my wheel chair escpecially on the ship/boat and how much money I would have to come out of pocket with; the pro's and cons were devistating to say the least.

On today, June 18, 2008 I spoke with a RPR rep by the name of Dale. He advised me that I had paid $494 and had a balance of $902 before I could take the trip. He went on to say that I could upgrade and the balance would then be $398. I told the guy I wanted to opt out and how I felt violated as a consumer inwhich he replied 'the only thing you can do is pay the balance of $902 or upgrade to pay-off balance of $398 and try to sell the 'time share' or transfer it. I replied by saying that I intend to find out what my legal rights are and how best to dissovle my association with RPR without suffering a total lost.

Sheri of Bonnyville OTHER (06/16/08)
my husband answered a call that had basically said ramada ft lauderdale florida (in some shortened form) on the caller id and said i was not home. He was informed by a keisha that i had been choosen to participate in some sort of travel survey. He was told they only choose so many people from our area to participate and we would be contacted via our email address if choosen; at which point he gave her my email address and some sort of promo code.

Surpirse surprise we were choosen to particpate and we had recieved a 5500. vacation package to orlando, vegas and mexico. I was to say the least skepitcal from the beginning and did not answer any of the repeated call the next few days. My husband did answer a call on Saterday and we dicussed the details of the trip that are not like what other people have said. At one point she asked for his credit card number to guarantee the trips and said nothing about charging the card . . . and i asked will anything be charged to the card and the reply was no and nothing was even said at this point beyond 198.00 in fees.

I used to work at hotel front desk and asked that question beacuse i wanted to make sure that it was just to hold the reservations. We then go about confirming details and i get put on hold so she can print the tickets and was about to be transferred to another department to confirm shipping and she comes back on the line saying that my card had insuffiecent funds (which i knew) and then she added that another 698. was also needed. The sales person was nice enough to give a week to clear some room on the cc to put some money down and get the info package sent out.

After reading the laundry list of complaints about this company i told my husband to phone our cc company and stop any payments. it turns out that they tried our card 30 time for amounts ranging from 719. down to 80.0. He then phone the ramada and told them to cancel the vacation package( which they have no record of because the cc would not approve) and that if they did he would dispute the charges and they would be fined. At least we have a leg to stand on here . . . the cc is soley in my husbands name and i was the one who gave the name and number over the phone (he was never asked ti authorize the charge) and i asked if anything was going to be charged to the card and was told no. I can honestly say that for once i am glad that my cc was maxed out and that a recent payment had not yet been processed. I may have saved us a bunch of money.

Pamela of Sacramento CA (06/07/08)
At this point in time I have yet to actually go on my spectacular luxury vacation. Trying to get a reservation specialists on the phone has been more than nerve racking. Keep in mind I get courtesy calls from Gina on a regular basis, however, when returning the call I am told that it is an opportunity to add more exciting travel bonus offers. Then when I explain I'm calling to book reservations I hold for more than 30 - 45 minutes.

So far, I have elected to forego the dream cruise to the Nassau Bahamas because of all the infornation I have received regarding the bogus Imperial Magesty boat I don't think it even qualifies as a ship. I am currently trying to connect with the bonus department representative to book my Puerta Villarta vacation. Did I mention I have had this fabulous vacation package for over a year? Yes, I got jilted into the $198 extend your (port fee) vacation scam. Mind you I booked my AA tickets within 15 minutes on the phone last night. Wanta bet how long it will take before I secure my Mexico resort reservations? So far I have held on three different occassions 30 plus minutes.

Currently I have invested $1000 in this Ramada Resort vacation. This does not include air fare. I will not be taking the cruise or the time alloted in FL (Ft. Lauderdale and Orlando). I have yet been successful in securing my reservations in Mexico. I must secure these reservations 60 days prior to travel date. YIKES!

Mary of Bellevue WA (05/15/08)
I purchased a vacation package from Ramada Plaza Resorts on 1/10/2007 after a call from one of their representatives. Due to family illness I waited until around March or April of 2008 to contact them to see if the package was still available. I was told that it was and that I could have an extension on the package expiration date. Once, I found out that I could still use this package I explain to a male representative name Dennis that I need to confirm travel dates with my daughter who would be traveling with me. It would be trip for my daughter's birthday. He said he could only hold this extension for a few hours but I needed to give my credit card information in order for him to do so. I gave him my credit card information with the understanding that he was not use it until I called him back with confirmation dates of arrival, etc.

I called him back within two hours and told him that I would not take the vacation package and to cancel. He said that my card would not be charged. He was not give an arrival date to start the vacation or authorization to charge my account. On May 14, 2008 I noticed on my April credit card statement two charges from Ramada Plaza Resort, one for $118 and other for $347 both charged on April 5, 2008. I tried to call Ramada that same day but their office was closed.

I called them the next day, Mary 15, to informed them of the incorrect charges. The representative I talked to would not allow me to speak to management to dispute these charges. She said she would handle it. This did not happen. What I got was a preson who argued with me, talked over me, tried to show me what I would loose, and just rude. A second person (a man) got on the line and was just as rude...telling me that I had authorized the charges...would not listen to reason...became very intimidating and raucous. They continue to agrue until I had to disconnect the call. I contact my credit card company and said they would take over and handle these charges with Ramada on my behalf. I was told by my credit card company that those charges would be credited to my account. Thank God I used American Express card. They made me feel like a valued customer.

Kristen of Westland MI (05/08/08)
I almost was duped into this beautiful package they even called my bank on three way to confirm they were a reputable company and would only charge my debit card once. my bank actually laughed and said no way dont do this the man on the line argued with the bank and eventually it was a war against TCF BANK and Ramada Plaza Resorts. i quietly hung up and started searching on the internet wow thank god when something is sounds to good to be true it usally is.

Sheryl of Newburgh, IN (05/07/08)
They called and sold me a vacation package and mis represented it all the way.

I was told it was for 6 people I paid extra for the other 2 so I could take all my kids... then when I went to book it they changed it on me and expected me to pay an additional $700. I had already paid close to that much initially. They said it was for Orlando or Ft. Lauderdale and Vegas it was not if you went to Orlando it was more money. The whole time I got the run around.

Matthew of East Amherst NY (05/05/08)
I purchased this Florida Vacation package for 4 days in Florida and a two day cruise through Ramada Plaza Resorts. The initial representative I spoke with sold me the vacation package with the claim that the initial $698 covered the first TWO passengers.

I am not taking the trip based on the numerous testimonies of dissatisfied customers, and am currently the owner of a $698 book of papers.

Calvin of Adrian MI (05/01/08)
Back in 2006 received a phone call to purchase a vacation package. Cost was 198.00. Received package a week later. Was promised I had three years to use. Didn't see that any where in package details.Anyways, no problems until a few weeks ago. Received a phone call from a man telling my package was going to expire. I proceeded to explain that had three years. He explained that I had only 18 months. I didn't want to argue with him, so I said fine. I then responded,well since this was a deposit can I get my deposit back. He said another department handles that and he would have them call me back. I didn't hear anything back for a week or two. Finally on a saturday, late morning, a really nice New York accented woman called from the same company. Only she acted like I had never been contacted about my trip that was soon to expire.

I almost upgraded like she was trying to pressure me into. She also was shocked that I only paid 198.00.Told me I didn't have a very good package and that I didn't pay all of the fees. She was surprised that I didn't pay 298.00. She said I only had today to save my trip from expiring and when I tried to get the exact date of the cancellation she couldn't tell, it was up to the computer to do it and when it does the trip lost. I told her that I couldn't do the upgrade, but could I call her back later that day. She gave me the phone number to call back. I didn't call. Since that day they have called every day,twice a day. Finally yesterday,4-29-2008 I spoke with RPR. Same pitch about my trip about to expire and pay more for extension etc. I told him if it involved paying anymore money I wanted nothing to do with it. He didn't like my stern no's and hung up on me.

I didn't answer the phone for awhile, I thought it was telemarketers. Caller Id labeled the company name as BESM. Several family members got tired of answering the phone and either getting hung up on or asking to hold and a representative would be right with them. Only economic damage is I am out 198.00 on my credit card plus interest and I didn't get a benefit from it. Relieved that I didn't give them anymore money. Not expecting a whole lot to get done but would like my money refunded. I didn't realize what a scam this was until googling and finding this website. Any help greatly appreciated.

Tammie of Simpsonville SC (04/21/08)
Booked a trip to orlando and ft. lauderdale fl. by phone to stay at ramada plaza paid $299.00 which the trip was not worth to begin with. Just called to book the trip and while processing the trip we were told we would have to pay a $78.00 dollar booking fee which clearly was not in our confirmation letter. I asked to talk with someone else about this matter and a male who did not identify himself answered the phone hey baby what can I do for you talk to me. I asked him about the fee and told him it was not anywhere in the letter I had recieved and that I would not be able to pay this and he rudely told me he would not book my trip he told me to read my confirmation and I have and that is not mentioned anywhere in the letter I have in front of me.

The letter states the only thing we would be responsible for is the room tax upon arrival. At the beginning of the phone call when talking with keisha I told her what we paid for the trip and she said you paid $300.00 fior your trip like she was shocked. We booked this trip through Palm Tree Travel out of West Palm Beach , Fl and of course the are out of business. There should be some type of law against this or a way people like my husband and I should be refunded our money since the companies are breaking their written contracts.

I have been reading reviews on the ramada plaza and how so many people have already been through this nightmare. People like this should be stopped. My husband and I work very hard for our money and just wanted a relaxing vacation and now we are out of $300.00. I would love for someone to please contact me, and I hope my story helps someone else in the future to not fall victim.

Elaine of Rome GA (04/21/08)
Following an original phone call soliciting and offering a vacation cruise package this company has constantly called offering upgrades, at a cost, yet stating that you have been specially selected for this offer. We originally participated in the offer but were unable to schedule the trip. The resort company called offering an extension of time of course at another additional cost. Because we had hoped to take this trip we participated also with this offer.

We have now received another phone call stating that we have won the amazing upgrade and an extension of the time for the trip however, they want us to pay the remaining balance of the trip. I stated that we had already extended the time so why was it necessary for us to pay the remaining balance. I was then transferred to a manager who became very rude and beligerent in our conversation. It became so bad that I finally had to hang up on the manager due to the fact that there was no longer a conversation taking place.

Further contact with the Felix sales person did not offer any hope for a resolution of this matter and we are now under the assumption that our pre-paid monies have been forfeited. Throughout this entire process we have been mislead and received constantly changing information.

Pre-payment cost = $798 Time extension payment cost = $150

Karrie of Aurora MO (04/07/08)
In March 2007, I paid $698 and then in Jan. 2008, I paid the final payment of $698. Three weeks later, I looked up the company to find out about the taxes. What I found was alot of unsatisfied customers. I called the company about certain fees that I was unaware of. After a 45 minute conversation with 7 different staff and several different answers, I requested a full refund. I was told, NO!

Note everytime you have a conversation with this company write names, date and time, and numbers down.

Here is what I did. I notified my credit card companies and filed disputes. I then wrote a letter to Daniel Lambert and sent it certified/return receipt. I then filed complaints online with Florida BBB(southeast), Florida Dept. of Agriculture and Consumer Services and the Florida Attorney General.

Within 5 weeks, I had a full refund.

Cheryl of Birmingham AL (03/24/08)
I purchased this vacation packet for my family and I. I was told that I was paying for a three day two night cruise to the Bahamas. After paying $150.00 to extend the cruise because we would not be able to take the cruise before it supposely expired. The salesperson imformed me that I should upgrade to a Cozumel cruise that would cost around the same amount as the Bahamas cruise, but would be for four days and three nights. Made sense to me, so I paid an extra $250 only to find out that the $250 was not applied to the Original packet(Bahama packet supposedly changed to Cozumel) but was applied to a new packet. Doesn't make sense! I had not taken the first vacation, so why would I purchase another packet to let the other expire? Duh! When I called to get some assistance with this matter, I was placed on hold several times without anyone answering my call, I was hung up on twice. The only thing Tiffany,(Specialist) and Lovell McNeil (Customer Service Manager)could say was There is nothing that they could do and I would receive the same response from anyone else in management. They apologized for the poorly trained salespersons. How convenient!, But didn't attempt to accomodate me the Customer.

We are out of approx. $1,000.00

Dennis of Stuart FL (03/23/08)
We made reservations after my husband's first liver transplant. His first surgery was 7/31/06. They told us that we could have an extension of 18 months. We finally made reservations for mar. 31- apr 5, 08. My husband was hospitalized on Feb 11, 2008. Long story short, he had to have a second liver transplant and will not be able to travel out of the country or stay at any questionable hotels due to the fact that he has no immune system and this will be for life. Therefore I asked for my money to be credited back to my visa cards. The expenses that come with a liver transplant are great and I am sure that if this is a legitimate vacation package as they suggest, then we will not have a problem. After going online and seeing the complaint section I know that my husband will never be able to travel with this company. Therefore I am faxing a letter from our Doctors and hopefully that will cover this. If not, I will have to seek legal action.

Doreen of Port St Lucie FL (03/18/08)
I paid $498 down for a cruise and dream vacation and was told when I went to go make reservations in the Orlando area for a hotel, that it was going to cost me another $498 to make the reservations there. They said that I only paid for one person, and the package was for two people; and I would have to pay the $498. Then my cruise trips would be free, of course, and so would be the Las Vegas package. All the other packages also would be free after I pay the expense to get there.

So I am paying $998 for an Orlando vacation that I could pay 1/2 that for. When I asked for a refund, they said I would have to make reservations and attend a part of the trip before I could lodge a complaint; and then it would go to a review board, and they would determine whether our trip was dissatisfying to us in order for us to get our money back. They would also determine how much we would be refunded. So we are out $498 to date because I am not spending another $498 to see if I can get my money back--because we all know I won't.

Jay of Fort Worth TX (03/18/08)
I contacted Ramada Plaza Resorts concerning a $1600.00 credit voucher I received in the mail. I spoke to Shawn, and he told me that this conversation would be monitored for both of our protection. I said that's a good thing because I was recording it as well. The next thing I heard was a dial tone as he hung up on me. My advice to anyone calling this rip off place is to tell them that you are recording the conversation as well as they are. I am sure the next thing you will hear is a dial tone--which is the best thing you can hear.

My ribs hurt from laughing so hard.

Lone of R7, Aylmer, Ontario OTHER (03/15/08)
I purchased a vacation package in the amount of $398.00, through Ramada Plaza Resorts. With my written reservation I was asked to send $118.00 for port fees. Feb. 23, 2008 we drove to Ft. Lauderdale to spend 2 nights at the hotel and then go on a cruise on Regal Empress/Imperial Majesty. I phoned two times prior to departure, just to make sure there were no additional charges and assured me there were none other than $20.00 per person Gratuity = $40.00. Driving to where the car had to be parked, we were charged $24.00. While waiting for passports to be checked, we were told that there was a $30.00 per person fuel surcharge = $60.00. I feel that all these extra charges should have been revealed, after calling them 2 times. I feel that Ramada has really placed themselves in a bad position with the public; but then again, perhaps they don't need the business. Everyone should be aware and cautious of things like this happening. Apparently, I have a hotel stay in Cancun, Mexico, but certainly am not going to use it, terrified of how much it could end up costing me!

Vacation package = $398.00 Reservation port fees= $118.00 Hotel taxes = $24.00 Parking = $24.00 Fuel surcharge = $60.00 Gratuities = $40.00 Feb.24-28, 2008 inclusive ended up costing me a total of $664.00. This was a very costly 4 days! It wasn't even enjoyable.

Sherry of Linden MI (03/14/08)
I recieved a voucher in the mail in the amount of $1,600.  I was told by a person Allen that I would have to come up with $798.00 to pay for trip. I informed him that I did not have the $798.00 to pay for the trip. He continued to pressure me and ask me You cannot afford $798.00? I repeated over and over, no I can not. I finally told him that I was not interested and hung up. He called me about 10 times before I picked up my phone. I talked to him again.

He was pressuring me into purchasing this trip and asked for my credit card number and he would see if he could get it cheaper. He would check with Visa and find out how much they would go down. I gave him my number on my credit card. He then proceeded to ask me what the three diget number was on the back. I explained to him that I was hesitant to give him the number. He assured me that my card would not be charged, that he just needed to verify with Visa.

I put my husband on the phone and two people were talking to him at once. My husband told them thank you for your time but I am not interested. and hung up. Five minutes later, my husband checked our account on line and my card was charged in the amount of $599.00. I only had $1.08 in my account but after they ran my card I was in the negative...In the amount of almost $600.00. My check went through that night and because they charged my account..WITHOUT MY AUTHORIZAION my check was gone and was still in the negative. I called the next day to see what happend. I was hung up on, laughed at. I was informed that they were in buisness for 15 years and little ole' me could not hurt them.

Patrick of Big Pine CA (03/10/08)
They called me and told me I won a cruise, then want credit card info to secure, and charged me $598.00. I was told I could cancel, no charge, within 48 hours. I did and only got back $449.00. They stole $149.00. I have called to get the rest back, unsuccessfully. They lie, cheat and steal.

I lost $149.00. I am just a college student.

Patrick of New York NY (03/04/08)
I sent in a $100 refundable deposit. Decided to cancel and re-schedule my vacation trip for a later date. Requested refund of $100 deposit on December 27, 2007. Was told it takes 4-6 weeks to return it to me. Called again early February and was told by another agent that it takes 7 weeks, not 4-6 weeks. Called back February 20, 2008 and spoke with agent Diane (after 7 weeks had passed) and was told that the check had not gotten to me. They would put in another submission to their accounting department to cut me another check. Was told that I would receive it within 2 weeks, by Wednesday March 5, 2008. Did not receive check as of Tuesday, March 4, 2008. Called back and was told that all they can do is re-submit the request to accounting, and it takes an additional 30-45 days from the date of submission. I then asked to be transferred to a supervisor and was hung up on.

They have illegally converted/stolen my $100 which was not owed to them and was contractually labeled as a refundable deposit. Upon information and belief, they are using this money along with other customer's deposits to invest in some kind of money market account to receive interest on the deposit and are delaying the refund as long as possible on purpose.

Peggy of Seattle WA (03/02/08)
I purchased the 'great' vacation package before checking on line. I still tried to go into this with a positive attitude and enjoy my time. That would have worked better if the hotel in Orlando was not so horrible. The rooms were so dirty I wore my shoes the entire time. There were partiers in the hallway all night, and it was just a dirty awful hotel. We upgraded to the ocean front in Ft Lauderdale (thank goodness) but still found the place to be lacking cleanliness. I asked after viewing my room if perhaps they had made a mistake because the room was not cleaned: witness empty booze bottles in the closet, hair on the sheets and nothing had been vacuumed. We got another room and just gritted our teeth.

The cruise - well, yes, the boat did have a lot of beautiful wood and the food was good. That's pretty much it. Alamo forced, forced, forced upgrades. All in all - people can plan a better vacation on their own at the same price. Oh yeah, they apparently are not affiliated with Ramada Inns, and this agency sells you for $500 to the time share folks. My recommendation - take the loss and try to cancel. We still put a lot out of our own pocket with upgrades, taxes, surcharges, etc. I honestly can say it was the worst planned vacation ever.

Terry of Blaine WA (03/02/08)
I paid them half of the money for a trip for my wife and me for a cruise and free passes for two to Disneyworld. The rest was to be payed 60 days before departure, and it was arranged that I had three years to plan this trip because I was told that I could invite others to go along with us for additional fees but discounted. The prices were to be: KID's 2 yr ($79.00); 12 yr ($98.00); 13 yr & older ($198.00). They were supposed to send me a DVD showing an overview of the ship and the boat and places that the trip included. I told them that this is great because my wife is scared of the water, and I could show her how big the boat is and how nice it would be, that there would be nothing to worry about. My wife was still at work, and we couldn't discuss this before committing to this trip, I was to have statutory period of 7 days after receiving this package with this DVD and reservation forms, etc. While discussing all of these details, it was arranged by Debra Simpson, with the OK of her manager Scott (1-954-485-6031). Neither one of them are there now. Instead of the 18 months to pay the rest, I was to have three years to prepare and invite my guests and be able to pay the rest sixty days before a travel date.

When my wife got home from work that night I told he about the trip that I had planned and that we were going on a cruise. She told me that she was not getting on a boat. I told her to wait till you see the DVD before making your decision. Then some time later the reservation forms came in the mail, and no DVD!. So I called them and explained this and that I would like to cancel. (My wife who is from the Philippines told me that we don't have to go on a cruise; we could just vacation at the resort and go to Disneyworld or Universal Studios and whatever we wanted to do.)

So the priced was reduced from $698.00 apiece to $590.00 for me and $398.00 for her. I wanted to cancel still but we were offered free meals for two as long as it was at the hotel. I agreed and told her I would still like to get a DVD of the cruise so that perhaps I could talk my wife into the cruise. I never recieved the DVD, called a couple of times to see what happened and got the felling I was being brushed under the rug. Frustrate, I just figured that we would just go and have a look around Florida and go to Disneyworld when the time came. Now it must be 18 months later, and they are calling me and telling me that my vacation is delinquent; and I need to pay the balance or lose my vacation, telling me that the full price is due for the cruise. I was trying to figure all this out and asked why they say a cruise, that they never sent the DVD, and tried to explain the agreement I thought we had made. They got snotty. I got mad and told them if they wanted to steal my money amnd vacation, fine, and they said fine--and we both hung up! WHAT CAN I DO?

I'm out $590.00 and am feeling very upset. I had to tell my wife about losing the money and the vacation to Disneyworld--and her having to explain to her niece, sister and her husband, and my son (our potential guests) that the trip is off!

Wendy of Woburn MA (02/26/08)
On Jan.17, 08.at 4:00pm, on Jan.18, 08 at 5:00pm and on Feb.15, 08, I received calls from this number, three calls for which were traced. After receiving the first call, I hung up the telephone, immediately turn the telephone on again and a woman asked for another woman of which name I do not recall. When I informed her that there was no such a person and to not call again because I am disabled and it was not easy for me to get up to answer the telephone, I proceeded to receive at least three more calls from this number, two of which were traced.

When I called the comcast company of which I have services with, they provided myself with the information of where the calls were coming from. I then proceeded to call the Woburn police who suggested that they send an officer to take a report. I declined because I was going to turn in for the evening. I then proceeded the next day to contact the resort, after being on hold for approximately ten minutes I spoke to a woman who put me on hold after I asked for a manager and refused to give her the number I was calling from. She came back on the phone and told me a manager was not available. Since tracing three calls from the same number, which is considered grounds for harassment, I have received yet another call from the same number, which is documented on my digital call log. I have become very distressed and annoyed that these people are insistent on calling my number and would like action taken. Also, I have been registered with the do not call list. I tried to put a block on the number, which I am assuming failed, because the call got through.

I see a therapist and tell her of the constant stress and bereavement that these calls are causing.

John of Surprise AZ (02/25/08)
Recently my wife and I were involved with a vacation package program from Ramada Plaza Resorts that turned out to be one of the worst experiences we have encountered. We are hoping that you can keep other folks from making the same mistakes. In summary we responded to an unsolicited phone call promising a first class deluxe vacation from Ramada Inns for a somewhat reasonable cost of $1,396 complete. The one condition was that we attend a vacation ownership presentation. I used to travel considerably and had favorable experiences with and trusted the Ramada Inn name. I agreed to the proposal.

We were sent a package that on the surface supported what the telemarketing representative had said (knowing what I know now, I can see that the presentation is very vague with details and lets the viewer jump to conclusions). In approximately the September 2007 timeframe my wife and I decided to schedule the trip and called the customer service line. While there was a small wait time on the phone we were processed reasonably quickly. When I called to make my reservations, the operator kept requesting me to upgrade my package. When I questioned all of the upgrades he informed me that I had purchased only a basic package that possibly included regular hotels instead of resorts, inside cabin on the boat, and very few extra amenities. I was very disappointed that a respected name like Ramada was behind this, was told that I could not get my money back and was led to believe that I had to take it. I contacted Ramada Plaza Resorts again to talk with a manager but was told that they would do nothing but charge me a $100 cancellation fee for each booking and still not get a refund. We also followed up with a letter and received no response.

My wife and I decided that we should go anyway rather than lose the $1,396 and expected a standard level of hotel and service. We drove down and arrived at the Ramada Plaza Resort on January 3, 2008. We found the hotel to be very old and run down. We couldn't even get our TV to work for the first half hour after it was turned on. We were not allowed to check in early so that limited the first day for any sightseeing; the second day we were scheduled for and attended a vacation ownership in mid-afternoon so the second day for sightseeing was lost. The third day we were scheduled to sail to the Bahamas so we could not visit any sights. Every time I tried to talk with someone regarding issues I was sent somewhere else to wait in line. When I checked out, I was charged $12 a day in taxes and surcharges. I tried to explain that we were on a prepaid package and they claimed that we were responsible for the charges. They refused to explain what the $8.90 surcharge and resulting taxes were for. My wife and I were very disappointed with the trip at this point in time but felt that the cruise would be good as we have been on three wonderful cruises before.

We arrived at the Sea Port and found the ship to be half the size of a regular cruise ship (the only one of this size) and visually in far worse shape. We tried to call the Customer Service Center at least six times and received busy signals, were on hold indefinitely or if the line was answered, was a voice mail requesting the caller to leave a message. I left my cell number several times. There was a storm scheduled for that evening. My wife and I did not want to go out on the ocean in what we considered a very small boat so we left messages that we had to cancel the remainder of the vacation and left for home.

Our complaint is that we were very misled when we purchased the vacation in good faith and with trust in the Ramada Inn name. We incurred considerable additional cost and time driving from Arizona to Ft. Lauderdale Florida (Automobile, lodging and meal expenses). Every time I tried to contact Ramada Inn Resorts, I was told that I had to contact the Customer Service number. Every time I tried to contact that number I was put on indefinite hold once they find out I have a complaint (I usually give up after 15 to 20 minutes). I leave numbers for a return call and they never call. I can only assume that they are in it for the short haul and trying to take advantage of as many unwary people as possible.

$2500, over a week of driving in a car and considerable stress over the situation.

Michael of Augusta GA (02/21/08)
On Feb. 15th, 2008, I was contacted by a Kassie Miller explaining to me that I had won a discounted trip to Florida. I was told that all I had to do was pay $238.00 and I could schedule my trip. I had until August of 2009 to do so. Caught up in the moment, I preceded to give them my credit card information and was told that the conversation was to be recorded. I had to give confirmation that they could debit my account for the above ammount. I was told that I would receive details in the mail about my vaction. I also asked for an e-mail confirmation but never received one. Later on in the day something was telling me to research the internet about this company and see if this was a scam. That's when I discovered that this was indeed a scam and had been going on for sometime. I proceded to call the company back and spoke with a gentleman by the name of, Phil. I told him I wanted to cancel my trip because I no longer wanted to do business with his company. He kept asking me if I was interested in any other deals they had but under no circumstances could he refund my money back to my account. I was puzzled because I had signed no contracts and had received no confirmation by e-mail or mail. I hung up with the gentleman explaining to him I would contact my bank, the Better Business Bureau, and your Firm. He then told me that he would explain to them the same thing that he explained to me.

I had to cancel my credit card and request a new one. They have my personal info, exlcuding my ssn and birthdate. It's been a real uncomfortable experience. All I want is my $238 refunded back to my account. Any help you can give me in resolving this matter and putting these scam artists out of business would be greatly appreciated. Thank you and have a great day!

Rahul of Brampton OTHER (02/21/08)
I recived a $1600 voucher in the mail from Ramada Plaza Resorts informing me that due to my good credit and financial history I am being awarded with this luxurious vacation and to call the toll free number mentioned above. I called the number and spoke with Drew Mullins at Ramada Hotel. He explained to me that this was a one time offer only which included a 3night stay at a top class resort, all meals paid and includes a cruise on a top class luxorius ship with a large buffet and more perks. Then he passed the phone to a manager named David and David told me that I must pay $798.00 right away because after the phone call I will not get this discount. I was reluctant to pay but he was very persuasive and pushy. He also informed me that I can bring three people with me at no extra cost and in addition to this, a rented car will be provided, again no extra cost. I ofcourse then, paid the money for which I was promised a reciept to my email right away. But I recieved no such thing and the money was taken from my credit card. I fell for this because Ramada is a well known chain of hotels and I wasn't expecting them to be fraudulent. I then went onto the internet and searched for the resort on google, just to see how it looks. But the search result showed me an exact copy of the voucher I recieved and explained how millions have fallen for this fraudulent voucher. I am sure you have recieved many complaints about the same thing before. I have not actually gone on the trip and after discovering its a fraud, I don't plan to. Now they will not even refund me my money. This is absolutely illegal and unfair to run this practise and taking advantage of people who trust Ramada as a recognized hotel. I hope you will help me get a refund.

Tearia of Washington DC (02/12/08)
I have purchased a vacation deal for $398.00 and I have researched this company and think they are a scam. They get you to buy this deal then charge extra fees and and give incorrect information about this package.

Elbert of Van Buren AR (02/11/08)
I booked everything through these people, my flight, car rental everything. My wife is disabled so we told them we would need a wheelchair at the air terminal to take her from our arrival to the connecting flight. It wasn't there and we didn't have enough time to get there so we missed our flight. When we finally got to Orlando we went to the Alamo rental car that I had rented in advance. There was a line of some where between 150 to 200 people in line to get a car and when I called them to find out why I wasn't able to just punch in my rental number and pick up my car they told me I would just have to wait my turn. The reason I had pre paid for all this was so my wife wouldn't be stuck setting in these places.

We finally got to the Ramada and  it was a dump which we checked out of and rented a room at Holiday Inn Express, which was much better place to stay at a cost of $226. On the rental car I was told that I would be able to drop it off at Alamo while we were on the cruise and pick it up afterwards. When we got back we waited at the Port of Miami for 1hr and 30min for a shuttle that is supposed to run every 20 min. When I finally got to Alamo with receipt they had told me to hang onto, I was told that once I brought the car to them I had to rerent another car which I did. By the way the convertible they gave me in Orlando the top wouldn't come down.

We then got our vouchers for the Ocean Point Resort and proceeded there where we checked in. When we picked up the vouchers the man there got me to put up a $100 dollars for dinner cruise tickets and told us that the $100 dollars would be reimbursed when we went the next morning for their presentation. Well we went on the dinner cruise which was decent. When we returned to our Hotel there wasn't any parking anywhere. I circled the lot for two hours. I went inside and asked the lady at the desk where we should park and she just shrugged her shoulders at me. I had my parking pass on my dash which was worthless since they had a club there and all the parking spaces were filled with people in the club. Finally the security guard came outside and told me to park as far out of the way as I could and he would call me when there was a vacant parking space. I did and about one hour later they called and I went down and moved the car.

The next morining we went for our 8:30 appt to listen to the presentation but at 9:40 they still hadn't started. This was when I told them they could keep my $100 because I wasn't going to listen to anymore from them. My wife then told them to write our name down and make sure they never call us again. We left there and went back to Ocean Point Resort and checked out and rented another room elsewhere so we wouldn't have to go through another night dealing with the most irresponsible group it has ever been my misfortune to meet. I spent more money on the worst so-called vacation in my life. If they ever call me again my first call will be to an attorney.

My wife, with a bad heart condition, and I have never been so stressed. I had to go rent rooms that we felt fit to stay in.

Breana of Antioch TN (02/06/08)
They promised me a luxury vacation package but I've seen complaints and law suits against this company so I don't want to go on the vacation but I had to pay $698 already. I don't want to pay anymore. I lost my money and want to be refunded.

Alison of Fullerton CA (02/02/08)
After a long description of a seven-night, eight day travel package, during which, among other lies, I was told I'd have an ocean-facing room in a beach front luxury resort, an exterior cabin on the Empress Majesty ship with a porthole/window, an arrival date of 3/29/08 in Ft. Lauderdale and a departure date out of Orlando on April 6, etc., I agreed to pay $898. It was a hard-pressure sell because I was told I couldn't think about it and call back later; it had to be paid right then and there. After the call, I researched the package and read literally hundreds of recent complaints about the company, the hotel properties, etc. It was frightening.

Also, I had been told by Alan Harrold that I could book the trip immediately by calling the customer service number he'd provided. That wasn't true. I called every day, twice a day, and they did not have my information until OVER 72 hours after I'd made the payment. The promised dates were unavailable, the ship cabin was NOT an exterior, etc. I had tried numerous times from Tuesday 1/29/08 to Saturday 2/2/08 to cancel, but no one was willing to help me, I was transferred from person to person, and David in Sales finally said no refunds in California, period. That's when I decided to take action. Florida should NOT allow a business like this with hundreds of lawsuits and consumer complaints to stay in business, and the Postmaster General should NOT allow mailings to go out from Ramada Plaza Resorts.

I was charged $898 on my American Express card.

Shawnee of Saint Louis MO (01/31/08)
I just wanted to share my short experience with this company. I purchased this package thinking WOW what a great deal for $798.00! I would get the cruise, Fort Lauderdale, Orlando with free VIP tickets to Universal Studios, Vegas and Puerto Vallarta and have 3 years to use these destinations. I have worked in the travel industry for 12 years and have been on fabulous 'Fam trips'. Well, that night a few hours later, I googled this so I could take a look at the property. I almost CRIED when this is what came up, consumer reports, rip-off reports, class action suits. Needless to say I was mortified and figured I was out of luck since I already authorized this charge. They recorded the conversation and I had to specifically say I authorized the charge.

I called my credit card company to tell them I was scammed by this company and canceled my card, but they said since it was already authorized they couldn't stop it from being posted but closed my account anyway. The next day I called Ramada and was advised my information wasn't in the system yet, so I said GREAT! Cancel it! She said well just because it's not in the system yet doesn't mean you haven't been charged and to call back within 48 to 72 business hours and they would be able to refund at that time. When I called back I told the representative that I was excited about the trip but found all of this horrible information online and that I was advised I could cancel and get a refund. After about a 15 minute speech she advised that they now have a 100% guarantee so if I took my trip I would get all of my money back if I wasn't satisfied. At this point I said I just didn't want to deal with all of this stress and problems that everyone else had and I was terrified to even go on the trip.

Well, she would not give up, so I said I would check with my fiance and call back. She also told me if I wanted I could cancel for a refund. When I called back the lady that was helping me said she wasn't able to refund if the manager already told me no. I didn't know what she was talking about. She said the previous agent transfered me to the supervisor and I was advised they would not refund. I said no, I wasn't transfered to any supervisor. This call took about a total of 1 1/2 hours. FINALLY she came back on the line and said they would refund. Now it has been a week and they refunded my entire $798.00. All I can say for the next person is do NOT wait until you get your information packet in the mail to try to cancel, this is non-refundable. Call IMMEDIATELY after reading these complaints and they will refund. I am so glad I found all of this right away or I would have been in trouble. I am so embarrassed that I even fell for this.

Bijan of Gainesville VA (01/21/08)
My wife received an offer from Ramada Plaza Resort offering a $1600 Vacation discount for a vacation in Florida (3 nights in gold key award winning accommodations in sun kissed South Florida) and round trip cruise aboard Carnival or Imperial Majesty cruise lines to Naussa, Bahamas, two nights of Gold Key award winning accommodations in magical Orlando, Florida, and 7 days transportation by Alamo Rent-A- Car during vacation, 3 days and 2 nights in Las Vegas, and 4 days and 3 nights in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. I was pressured by two salesmen named Keith Preston and Ivan over the phone to buy this one time offered package right then or is not offered anymore. I was reluctant to purchase under pressure but finally gave up and agreed to pay half of the trip additional cost and they offered as an incentive to have an option of 3 years to use it.

A few months later I went on the internet and researched Ramada Plaza Resorts and found out that they have the same offer available. Also, I found out that there are many unhappy people actually taking the same vacation as I purchased and there are law suits against these Ramada Plaza Resorts. I Called Ramada and I talked to Tara Nire, a manager, and I demanded the cancellation of my trip and refund of my money unsuccessfully. They refused to refund my money. I don't want to go to this trip that I hear horror stories about. This morning I got another call from Ramada that I have to send the rest of the money to be able to use this trip within 3 years that originally these people offered to me. I really don't know what to do. I would like to make a complaint to all the governmental consumer protection agencies to register predetory practice and fraudulent practices of this particular entity. 

Rajpal of Toronto OTHER (01/21/08)
I got pressured into taking this vacation. They are saying that to get a refund you have to read in the package. I did not receive package but decided to cancel anyways. I deposited $299 and they refunded $224. I paid $75 for cancellation. And if i want to hear the recording they made on the transaction, and I'm wrong about the refund process they will take all the money and no refund.

Jeremiah of Riviera Beach FL (01/19/08)
I deeply apologize for all of your bad experiences. I'm saddened to say that I worked for the North Palm Beach office. They have a policy that you can't talk about the for two years after you worked for them, luckily, I quit in November of 2005. It pained me to listen to the dreadful stories the customers recounted. I remember closing a sale and saying to a coworker, "These people have no idea of what they're getting into." This was my first telemarketing job at the age of 18. I honestly feel your pain. I knew the hotels were bad. Someone on the phone told me that one of the hotels in Orlando had its signage dangling from the roof outside their room window which was next to the intersection! I'm sorry, I was just trying to pay for school. Never again!

Melanie of Troy MI (01/17/08)
A Ramada Plaza Resorts Travel saleswoman called me and told me that a $698.00 payment was received for a travel package in 2002 on my credit card. Since I have never traveled to their Ramada Resorts in Orlando/Ft. Lauderdale or taken either bonus trips to Las Vegas and Puerto Vallarta she wants me to pay another $698.00 today so that I can still travel and take all three trips. I told her that I never received in the mail back in 2002 any Informational Travel Package regarding the vacation package that she claims that I choose. Even if I wanted to travel through them I can not afford to pay another $698. Therefore, I asked for 100% of my money back and she said that I had to create a new package with the $698 paid as the down payment and that it will expire if I don't apply it today and pay them $698 more.

I feel that it is wrong that I am told that I can not get a full refund for the $698 paid and I should not have to take such a loss with no products or services rendered. At this point, I refuse to do business with this company because of their misrepresentation as well as the current multiple class action suits from consumers, like myself, who have been ripped-off and scammed of their money, in one way or the other, by this company.

The economic/financial consequences that have been incurred on myself from the Ramada Plaza Resorts in Orlando/Ft Lauderdale Vacations equals $698.00.

S. of Aurora CO (01/12/08)
My fiance and I were scammed by Ramada Plaza Resorts in August, just a few weeks before our wedding. We had no time to look at the materials when they came in, and when we did (four months later), we were aghast at the numerous hidden fees and blackout dates. Plus, trying to organize all the vacations they offered looked like a nightmare. Add to that all the horror stories online, and we didn't even want to go. We wanted our money back. I set aside a morning to call Ramada. I spent probably 1.5 hours on the phone with them, getting transferred slowly from person to person (left me on hold for 15-20 minutes at a time) and finally to a supervisor (fourth person I talked to).

The supervisor I finally spoke to insisted that no refund could be given because my money had already been distributed (not my problem, their problem), that I had missed my deadline of 3 days (ridiculous, because the paperwork doesn't specify that this is the only time you can get a refund--it just hints at that), that my state only gave me 30 days to ask for a refund (but he didn't know what state I was in and couldn't tell me the exact policy for my state), that I couldn't get a refund unless I was dead, that there was no cancellations department (untrue, according to multiple reports online), that I needed a good reason to cancel (they don't need a reason, isn't their business, and tell them so). It was a long, draining conversation.

After the conversation, which did NOT result in a refund, I typed up a detailed report, including the name and ID number of every employee I had talked to, and sent it to the Florida Better Business Bureau and the Florida Division of Consumer Services. One week later, I got email from the BBB saying the company would send a full refund. Today, I checked my credit card, and the full amount has been credited back to my account. I'm still planning on sending more information to the Division of Consumer Services and a thank you to the BBB. If I can help put Ramada out of business, I would be delighted. It is possible to get a full refund from this ridiculous company...just be persistent and take notes! Good luck!

Jasmine of Jersey City NJ (01/12/08)
I purchased a vacation from Ramada Plaza Resorts in 2006. I was solicited via telephone. I was told by the salesman that I would have 3 years to use the vacation, as he threw in many additional bonuses. The vacation was in my husband's name. After reading many poor reviews and seeing the 60 Minutes special regarding the promotion, I elected to cancel the trip. I was very upset when I was told, very rudely, that my trip was expired and only for 18 months. I tried to explain that the salesman I spoke with assured me I had 3 years to use the trip. I also let them know that at no time was I ever told by said salesman that my trip was non-refundable. I was then treated very hastily and nastily by first Tiffany #4020, then by her supervisor Laval #4044. They both had a could-care-less attitude.

I asked constantly if there was some way we could work something out or if I could speak to another department or division in the corporation, but was told they were the final answer regarding my issue. I could not believe that they were not willing in any shape or form to work with me and refund some of my trip fee. I left the phone call feeling like I was swindled or taken advantage of. They offered no other solution other then to spend more money and open the trip back up. I should have read every single line in the package sent (impossible). But they are hiding behind the small print and misleading sales pitches to defend their right to keep our money. If I don't take the trip at all I should receive at least a portion of my money back. I've never written in a complaint or review of any service regardless my feelings, but I feel that Ramada Plaza Resorts so blatantly scams and misleads potential customers that something should be said. I'm out $700.

Anthony of Speedwell TN (01/11/08)
We purchased our vacation in April of 2004. We have been trying to take it since then. It is now Jan. 2008. Every time we book or try to book we get told the ship is not sailing or in dry dock. One time we were told that we had good reservations, and when I called to confirm the next day (just to be safe) I was told that there was no available space, and that it had been sold out for at least two months. One time we were within 2 weeks of driving the 1400 miles to the ship and resort, when we got a message on our answering machine stating that the ship was suddenly dry docked--and if we wanted our cruise it would be on another ship going to the western Bahamas instead of eastern which is the ONLY reason we booked with this company in the first place.

When I contacted the company, the only thing that they said they would do is refund our port charges and extend the time we had to take the vacation. We currently have invested $898.00 after the port charges were refunded. We tried to book in Dec. of 2007 for the first week of January and were told that Carnaval Cruise Lines wasn't running a ship on that week but would be back on line after Jan. 2 or 3. On Jan. 11th I tried holding on the phone hearing their sales spiel for almost 30 minutes. The advertised wait time was approx 3-4 minutes. We just want what we paid for or a refund. Is this a Ghost company? They seem to disappear when it is time to make good on their end of the bargain. They refuse to refund our money, and I am tired of scheduling our vacation time around something that isn't available.

Paid $1,196.00; refunded $298.00 = $898.00 which is due back, plus approx 10 hours total time on the phone , stress of lost time on special vacation (for my birthday).

Nancy of Hazlehurst MS (01/11/08)
I purchased 3 cruise packages and was told that there was gold key food included at hotel, that the hotel was very close to airport and port, would have an oceanview cabin and rental car (medium size). I called to book and was told that I had a standard package, that to upgrade it would cost me $400.00 more. After I complained, Joyce told me that the sales agency that sold me the package did not tell me all the facts. She stated that it was very expensive in Fort Lauderdale, and to not say anything when I got there and have a bad vacation because it would cause me triple to upgrade then. I stated that I was very frightened about the trip now, especially after her comments when I refused to pay more money to up grade.

Then I got on the net and read all of the horror stories. How can these people just lie and defraud people like that? What can be done? I am a nervous wreck. How do I tell my husband and kids that we have been taken?

Willie of Belleville NJ (01/11/08)
I think they are THIEVES! They are unprofessional. They have not responded to my 40 letters. They scammed me. As a member of the working poor, I only wished to give my family a nice vacation. The package sounded great. But in retrospect, it was an extravagant and foolish purchase. I placed a $698 down payment on the package. I was never able to take the vacation and requested a refund. I have not received ANY response to any of my letters. I would even respect a NO, you will not be getting back your money, as a response. I work. I work hard. I wanted a vacation.

Randy of Rincon GA (01/05/08)
Ramada Plaza Resorts telephoned our house to sell us this one time only vacation offer, where we would receive luxury accomodations, tickets to Disney World, a Carribean cruise, and hotel accomidations in Las Vegas. I asked if this is a time share and they said no. I gladly said yes and purchased their package. I was told to call one month before my vacation and when I did they charged me a $60.00 proccesssing fee and told me that I could not stay the 4 days but only 2 because they were booked. 1 week later I receive a letter saying I was to check in at a welcome center then schedule my tour. I knew they meant timeshare. I called their customer service and they informed me this is not a timeshare it was only a 15 minute tour and then fill a out a form 5 minutes tops. I was relieved because I didn't want to do a timeshare, I did one before and was really aggrivated at the pushy sales pitch.

When my family and I arrived it was then he told me they don't do tours but only timeshares. I argued with him saying I was prommised this was only a 15 minute tour. I felt I have been scammed,  I chose to not do the timeshare and pay for the rooms myself and pay for the Disney Tickets. They lied about everything they were selling. I'm out $440.00 on a scam. I hope you can help me get a refund and also stop this scam from hurting other people.

Sara of Spring TX (12/28/07)
I bought a vacation package about $1,500 that was promised to be a at least $3,000. When I was about to leave for my vacation I decided to Google the package to see destinations and found out there was a scam involved, and it's a whole time share deal. I was not informed of this, or I wouldn't have purchased it. I read pages upon pages of complaints regarding the same vacation package. I decided to cancel my vacation and reported a complaint to the Florida Dept. of Agriculture & Consumer Services to see about getting a refund. They have responded that they can't resolve my complaint and have closed it unsatisfactorily because Ramada Plaza Resorts chose not to reaction is the smaspond to the complaint. Therefore, the Division of of Consumer Services has said to consider filing on claims court or seek advice from an attorney to expore available options for my refund.

My damages are I had requested my vacation time from work but didn't receive my vacation I intended. I ended up losing my vacation money in a time share scam. I don't understand why I would have to pay for a package, then show up to find out that I would have to sit through a presentation to receive a voucher to my hotel--and also have to end up paying for parking and other expenses when I was informed it was all included.

Pierre of Calgary, Alberta OTHER (12/19/07)
I received their promotion in the mail, announcing to me that I was the recipient of a travel voucher valued at $1600 for a vacation and cruise. There has been a lot of negative publicity for these 'great deals' and that most are simply scams to get money out of unsuspecting victims. I Googled the RPR name and found the Consumer Affairs web site in which the sordid history and legal troubles of this company are well documented. I have taken this information and contacted Canada Post by email requesting they investigate this as a possible case of mail fraud and to also look into no longer carrying any mail from RPR. Remember that anything that is too good to be true, usually is. Do not blindly answer these invitations without first doing your homework and saving yourself time, money and much aggravation.

Donna of Newburyport MA (12/14/07)
I get harassing telemarketing phone calls on my cell phone every single day, sometimes up to 2-3 times a day.

I entered my number in the 'Do Not Call Registry' and they paid no attention to that. I'm paying for these annoying pre-recorded voicemails that they keep leaving me.

Laura of Brighton MA (12/14/07)
After researching different peoples' experiences with this vacation package, I realized that this scam is not worth the money I was tricked into spending. I was sent this package because of my positive financial history and when I called to find out more about it, I was not allowed off the phone until I purchased this trip. I spent $698 on this package, and I do not want to waste more money on this scam, similar to others peoples' experience.

$698 was spent on this trip, and after learning about the poor hotels, and hidden fees that were not fully explained, I would like my money back.

Brandy of Kingsport TN (12/03/07)
A man came to my husband's work and said we could get 4 days 3 nights stay in Orlando , Florida for $99.00. My husband called me and I told him it was timeshare. The man said it was not a time share. So I told my Husband ok. Well, I sent in the paper work and I got a book mailed back to me it said that we could have 2 for one cruise. I called and booked it. What they never told us was that we would need passports for a family of 4 and that's $500 we don't have. So I called them back and said I want to cancel the cruise. They hung up on me 4 times and then cancelled the dates and hung up. I called them back about the $475.00 refund. Thay told me no. I lost it. The money stays in house. Then I called them about cancelling the stay in Orlando and they said, no I wouldn't get that money back. I told them I would keep that part of the trip. I asked them about it and they told me it was a timeshare and that we would have to go to.

I lost $575.00. I was lied to, hung up on and treated very rudely.

Samantha of Tralee AL (11/24/07)
I booked a room for a week in november. It was cost $315. On arrival they didn't have records of my reservation but I did, so as an apology they put myself and my friend in the best rooms for the night until they fixed the problem. They put my friend and I in seperate rooms when we had only booked one room. The next day no one had resolved the problem and they said they knew where to find us when they needed us. The week finished with no sign of the hotel people contacting us or resolving the problem. When my friend and I went to check out we had our exact money ready.  Instead of $315 they said we owed them $630! we were shocked and scared as we didn't know German language that well, so explaining that we only had enough money on us for our original price was impossible. Luckily I manage to have enough phone credit to text my brother for help.. what would of happened if we were unbale to pay the money? Would we have gotten arrested?

We suffered embarrassment, and were overcharged for a problem that was not our fault. Our holiday was ruined as we were stuck at the counter with other tourists watching us and it was humiliatiing and we can't afford to pay that much money. I have with me the original price and booking information that I had taken with me and a copy of the price they charged. If I hadn't brought my reservation docket with me, my friend and I would've been stuck in Germany without accommodation. I sent an email complaint to the Ramada a week ago and have not gotten a response.

Dixie of Yorktown IN (11/22/07)
As near as I can tell their are four companies involved with this scam. The people who called me on the telephone, to solicite their trip was Imperial Majesty Cruise lines, however whenever we tried to complain we were told that that wasn't their company it was always the other company,pass the buck! The person who spoke to me on the telephone assured me that this was just a discount vacation and that it required no action on my part except for my money.

I made a special point of asking whether or not we had to listen to anything and was told no! When the pamphlet arrived it said in the fine print we were to listen to a 90 minute sales presentation. I called them and told them that I was definitely told that was not required. I was then told that I shouldn't have been told that and they were sorry, but of course they weren't about to refund my money!

My $299.00 trip resulted in about $2,000. before it was done and the accomodations were sub-standard to say the least. At one point we had to threaten to call the fire marshall to get anything done and then it was just a farce. The hotel should be condemned, and the ship isn't what you would call decent accommodations. The ever flowing food expected on a cruise isn't what you get, and the soft drinks are even a charge item and then they are $2.00 each. Of course you can update your food for $50.00 more.

The porthole that you pay an updated fee for is behind a rollaway bed and is totally unaccessable, of course, without the little bit of light that comes through it, you would be living in a dungeon.

Barbra of Waterbury CT (11/11/07)
I considered purchasing the Ramada Plaza Resort vacation with a certificate I received in the mail. After speaking with the Supervisor who assured me that the package was 100% refundable, I decided not to purchase as my husband did not want to give credit card information over the phone. He wanted me to look further into the package deals as it sounded very fishy to him. I explained this to the supervisor and was told that there is a policy of 1 call per person--that you could not think about it and call back.

After hearing this, I decided my choice to forgo this was a good one. Since that time, I have received multiple daily phone calls from their computer system that automatically dials my number. I once called it back and spoke with someone who said the reason that they were calling was the price had gone down, and they asked if I would reconsider. I again declined and asked for my number to be removed from their system. I was informed that this would take place immediately. Not 30 minutes later, I got another call from the system. That evening, I received 4 more calls. The next day I got 6 more, and so on. The calls have not stopped every day for 1 week. They call 6-8 times per day. Every time I answer the phone, there is no one there. I call back and demand that my number be removed IMMEDIATELY or I would report them for harassment. I spoke with a supposed supervisor who assured me that the number has been removed, and I would not receive any more calls. I still receive them.

Valerie I. Parris of Port Chester NY (10/29/07)
I purchased one of their vacation packages at $249.00 and they wanted $147.00 more back in 2005. I was told then that I had until 2008 to travel. I called up on October 29th 2007 to cancel again but was told that it was past the time for me to get a refund. When you dial the 800 number a recorded message doesn't say who the company is.

I would like to get the $249.00 back. I did call back to ensure that the account was canceled but was told that it was still open. You wait for quite some time before someone answers the phone.

Debra of Bostic NC (10/28/07)
My husband bought this trip as a birthday present in April 2005 and kept it a secret from me until November 2005. He did not realize at the time that my mother would be diagnosed with cancer and eventually pass away after a lengthy battle. During this process, my father developed Parkinson's and has also had to go on dialysis for kidney failure. My family has always been a priority and the trip was put on the back burner.

I have just now started to review the information on the trip and hoping to go after the first of the year. He told me he had paid an additional charge to extend the package. After everything I have read from other customers, I am terrified of taking the trip.

I am in terrible need of a semi-peaceful get away. I know that all trips have problems, but if this is as bad as others say, I am afraid I will end up in the looney bin. Caring for elderly parents for this length of time has me emotionally and physically exhausted. I could really use this dream vacation, but would rather stay home if it is going to be in substandard conditions and one headache after another.

Kasheena of Carrollton GA (10/26/07)
I signed up for a free Ramada Plaza vacation package. They asked for a deposit of $249.00 so that they could send the package out. I gave them a credit card number, and they charged my card. After reviewing the package I mailed back the cancellation form certified mail within three days. I called to check on my refund and was told that I could not receive a refund. I then filed a complaint with the BBB of Florida, and the company replied and said they would refund my card. My refund was never credited.

I have been stressed as well as in an economic hardship.

Holly of Morgantown WV (10/05/07)
I purchased a package from Ramada Plaza Resorts shortly after my engagement (thinking it would be perfect for our honeymoon and next couple anniversaries). Upon purchasing the trip, we convinced them to cut the cost of the trip as well as extend the time of use to 3 years because we are college students who knew we would absolutely not be able to use all of the trips in only 1 1/2 years. We went on our honeymoon to Florida and Nassau. While it was by no means as beautiful as they had convinced us, we were still content.

A few weeks ago we received a phone call from the Florida Ramada company trying to sell us on another trip (which we refused) but first she had said something about our package being expired, which would not have been correct. This led me to call Ramada Plaza Resorts main line and ask questions about our package. They have our package as being expired at the 1 1/2 year mark. I complained and was told there was nothing they could do. I asked for a supervisor and was told that one would call me back.

A week and a half later, with no word from the company, I called again. I got through to a supervisor who was insistent that there was absolutely nothing they could do for me because I do not have a confirmation number regarding the extension. I explained that I did not know I needed one because it was supposed to be part of the entire package in which my trip number would serve as my confirmation. After arguing and being put on hold multiple times, I was still told that the only thing I could do is purchase another year for almost $90. I told him that was not an option and that we would not have purchased the trip if we were only to have 1 1/2 years to use it. The conversation ended with him saying there is nothing more he can do.

We paid well over $1000 for the package which was to cover many more trips and now we will not be able to use those trips without paying for more time.

Adam of Ottawa, Canada (09/14/07)
I just had to say that as I read all the complaints and horror stories about the RPR and in general these 'vacation deals'that while I agree that this is probably the 'norm' - we had a really good time (so far - still 2 'mini-trips' left to use...) with our Orlando/Lauderdale/cruise portion. We got a great car (paid small amount for an upgrade), not bad hotel(Orlando) and great resort(FtL) and the Regal Empress was a great ship for the 2 nights (food was wicked good!). So I have no doubt the majority find it a nightmare but it occasionally does come off well. I just hope for the same for the other two mini-trips!

I would not get myself 'into' one of these deals again. We already have several weeks of time shares so we don't need to lose 3 hours of our lives listening to the sales pitch. But it has been 'good' for us. And I was in fact surprised (and maybe tempted) by the deals on time shares (esp the foreclosures) that they were offering....

Jeanne of Rochester NY (08/21/07)
Like so many others I too fell for this vacation of a Lifetime The brochures and DVD they sent can't possibly be the same place. the Ramada in Ft.Lauderdale was old and dirty. The odor in the hallways was nauseating. The floors were stained and the bathtub didn't drain.

The Ramada in Orlando was almost as bad. This time the bathtub drained but we had to wait the best part of an afternoon before we had a useable toilet.

The cruise was okay except there again it cost quite a bit more than we were told. $15 a day for parking as well as gratuities and tips for services not rendered. The best of all was the free car. It came to over $400.

The consequences are that I will be paying for this vacation of a lifetime for a long time to come. If i had any idea that the brochures were so far from the truth I would never have been so foolish.

Trista of Center Point TX (08/20/07)
I just wanted to thank all the people who published stories about their vacations. I received the same offer in the mail and I thought it sounded like a good deal. I decided to research this company online, and I am so glad I did that. The people that published their horror stories saved me from a (trip) I could certainly not afford. Thank You!

Darren of Mableton GA (08/19/07)

Like many others on this site, I received a voucher in the mail for $1600 in early Aug of 07 and I called the 800 number to see if this was for real or not. I spoke with a representative name Erica who tried to convince me to buy this vacation package for $698. She transferred me to a sales clerk who convinced me that if I upgraded to a $798 package I would be getting a much better deal. He made the offer sound very nice so I agreed to buy it.

I called the next day to cancel and finally got through to another aggressive sales clerk who immediately asked me what happened. I told her about this site and she tried to brush it off as nothing major. She requested that I view the DVD that was sent to me in the mail before I decide whether I wanted to cancel. I then informed her that based on the responses on this site, I was fully aware of the 3 day period that I have to cancel and that by the time I received the DVD and vouchers in the mail, that 3 day period would be long gone. Her only response was, that's not true.

She transferred me to the cancellation department and even THIS woman from this department tried to give me a sales pitch. I immediately cut her off, told her that I wasn’t interested, and just want my refund. She graciously complied, verified my card number, assured me that the full amount will be recredited to my card on the next billing statement, and then gave me a refund confirmation number. Four days later, the full amount of $798 that I paid was recredited to my Visa. I just want to say thanks to yahoo, this website, and you guys for saving me from these creatures.

Cascenta of Bel Air MD (08/19/07)

I work at the White House as a systems engineer. I have stayed at countless Ramadas, where as my job requires traveling, and I have always been pleased. After I had paid in full I asked a representative were there any other expenses I would have to pay and he reassured me that the only other expense I would be responsible for would be the gratuity on the ship. Upon arrival at the Ramada Plaza Resort Ft. Lauderdale, I was absolutely horrified at the condition of this hotel. The staff was not well maintained they were rude and had no knowledge of the surrounding areas or the hotel. The hotel hallways had a disgusting stench of filth. The pool was over crowded, unkept, and reeked of urine.

The hotel room itself was old and unclean. The bathroom floor was unclean as well as the tub. The wallpaper was peeling and looked to have dirt in every crevice. The floors were riddled with untreated stains that looked to be Petri dishes for fungal bacteria. If all this was not bad enough the comforter had stains from God knows what and holes. The mattress was hard, thin and sunken in. The window, which was unable to be opened, had what looked like mold all around it. We had driven for 16 hours and were too tired and to scared to go get another hotel.

The cruise was no better. The pool was disgusting and depleted. The color of the water was always green and it was never full. The rooms were incredibly small. My family which consist of 4 members was provided with a room that had two stationary less then twin size beds, one pull down bed and a roll away bed that had no space to be unfolded. There was not enough space for the four of us. We are experienced cruisers and we know the rooms are small but this was ridiculous.

When we went to settle our bill I was irritated to find yet another charge that I was not made aware of and required to pay. I personally do not feel as though as the crew members of the ship earned the gratuity I was forced to pay.

Doug Cottrell of Ottawa, Canada (08/08/07)
This is just after 4 helavious hours being bounced between every sub-organization and contractor Ramada uses - all of who contradict each other and then point (and forward) the call between each other. Lots, lots more but far more than I can possibly enter here.

Frustration, threats, immense waste of time, loss of deposit 1200 CDN. Abuse. Slander and Libel. It is just endless.

Alice of Winter Park FL (05/29/07)
First I was solicited on the phone and they were charging my credit card and the they called again with a better price. I was told that I would havea choice of Universal pass and a Disney Pass instead I received a voucher for Sea World pass voucher. And ten I noticed on the package I received thwy still wanted me to pay another $118 dollar when I reserved the trip. I have called several times and they keep me holding forever. I just want my money back as I can't afford to give them any more money and beside why should they profit from me and I don't get anything at all. I am a single mother and I can't afford to just throw money away.

Michael of Largo FL (05/19/07)
I bought 3 Orlando Vacation packages from Vision Marketing & Associates, Inc. in August 2005. The packages were described as 3 nights accommodation at the Ramada Plaza and 2 Universal Studios 2-day tickets, at a cost of only $99.00 each. I booked 2 packages for 13th November 2006.

When we checked in at the Welcome Center in the Ramada, we were told that we had to take the time-share tour to qualify for the hotel rooms and the Universal Studios tickets. This requirement was not part of the original offer, and I refused.

Since it was in the evening, and the manager was not there, we were given hotel vouchers for the first night only, and told to see the Welcome Center manager the next day. I saw him next morning, and what a horrible experience that was!

This nasty little scumbag, Philip, was rude and offensive. His job was not to welcome Ramada's guests, but simply to make sure every body went on the time-share tour. I again refused, and we paid the hotel direct for our rooms for the second and third nights (only $40.00 per night!).

The original packages were paid for by credit card, so I disputed the payment on the grounds that the services paid for were not delivered. Mastercard refunded the full amount for all 3 packages, and confirmed a few weeks ago that my claim was successful.

Kerrie of Cibolo, TX (05/09/07)
My nightmare started in September 2004 when I took the bait for a week in Florida and a cruise to the Bahamas. The price seemed right (later figured out that I could have booked the whole thing cheaper on my own and not had to worry about sitting through a timeshare).

They insisted I had to take advantage of this offer then or it would be lost forever.   I agreed and they had someone read off a rambling for about five minutes, talking so fast I could barely understand them.  I was told I could book the second half of the trip within 18 months and pay the second half at that time.

I was continually harassed by the customer service dept, trying to pressure me to pay for the second half of my trip.  My husband and I were both Active Duty Military and didn't have a lot of leeway with leave.  Then my husband got orders to a 2-year school in TX, so it would be three years before we could take this vacation.

The CSR informed me that they had a special deal for military members that would extend our vacation for 8 years, plus he would upgrade the cruise, as long as I purchased the second half of the vacation.  This was a lie.  The CSR I spoke to tonight said the best they could do was extend me another 15 months, plus I had to pay an extra $200 for the cruise upgrade.  No refunds.

I am currently out about $1600.

Michelle of Gray LA (05/08/07)
In the early part of 2004 I received a package saying I won this wonderful vacation package. I was told it was a $3500 value I was getting for only $698 and I had to have someone else purchase a ticket for the same price. We were told we had 18 months to use the vacation. Things happened and we were not able to go. When I called I was told I could reserve my tickets for another 36 months for an additional $200. Since the tickets included so many trips I agreed. I believed I purchased a trip to the Bahamas,Las Vegas, and two trips to Mexico.

When I called 60 days in advance to reserve my trip to the Bahamas I was told for $200 more I could get a picture window for better view. I had to pay $149 each for boarding fees and I would have to pay the taxes on the room. Since we drove our own vehicle we also had to pay for parking. The reservations were from 4-2 until 4-10. We were told we had to arrive on 4-1 the itinerary would be mailed to us. One week before we had to leave still no itinerary so I called for David. I was assured he would overnight the package and he even gave me directions to the hotel.

It's time to leave and still no package. So we just pray that when we get there everything is arranged. When we arrive the hotel is pretty far from the beach but it wasn't bad. When we check into the welcome center we find out we are going to Cozumel instead of the Bahamas and we do not have a room for the extra days we were promised. Well it's too late to do anything now so we figure we can go to Bahamas some other time.The lady at the welcome center was very nice and she found us a room. It was also far from any beach.

The experience was not as bad as some but it was not what we were told we were getting. When we returned home I tried calling RPR and was on hold for 45 minutes. when I finally spoke to some one they said they didn't know any David Richardson and there was nothing to be done about the cruise. I asked about the itinerary and was told oh it was never sent. If the itinerary had been sent we would have know to bring the proper clothes for dinner with the captain (which we missed). I'm afraid that we will not be able to enjoy any of the other trips and this one was definately not worth the $2000 we spent.

Anthony of Washington DC (05/06/07)

I paid $1,670.00 for a vacation package I have not taken. I have been paying for extensions since 2003 because this company will not give me a refund. I have heart disease and a pace maker. This experience has caused me an over night stay in the hospital and I now owe the hospital. I need some closure to this situation now!

Denise of Vancouver, WA (05/06/07)
WE GOT A FULL REFUND IN TWO WEEKS! Here's what you do: File a complaint with the Florida Dept of Agriculture and Consumer Services. You will receive a packet in the mail to fill out and return. You need a copy of the voucher you received from Ramada. A copy of your credit card statment or bank statement showing how much you paid and then go to this website and every other one you can find and print out as many pages of complaints you can find. Send all this back.

I had a full refund of my $698.00 in two weeks of returning the packet of information!

A of AK (05/05/07)

I wanted to say that I have received a voucher for a fabulous Florida vacation and Caribbean Cruise. I was looking for some information on Ramada Plaza Resort and, oddly enough, when I Googled it this website came up. Long story short, voucher going into the shredder! Thanks for tips!

Olufemi of Laurel, MD (04/27/07)
I am one of the many that was scammed by Ramada Plaza Resorts. I bought the trip for $698 in April 2004.  I received a call from a Ramada rep on 11/9/05 that my vacation was going to expire and I needed to pay an extra $87 to extend the trip.  In the process I was persuaded to upgrade my trip to $898.

January 2007 they called me again saying that my trip is going to expire so I paid them another $87.  In total they have charged my credit card $1072 and I was told I would still owe $298 when I call to reserve my trip.

Keisha of Santa Clarita CA (04/25/07)
I received a phone call in August of 2005 with an offer for a great deal on a vacation package to Florida. They wanted $650.00 down payment over the phone & $650.00 prior to leaving on the trip. I gave them the $650.00 over the phone via my credit card.

A couple of weeks later I received a package with a bunch of vouchers in it and no contact information. I have since been trying to contact this company with no luck. I looked them up via a search engine today and all that came up were over 10 web sites dedicated to complaining about this trip that they are calling a scam. I would like to get my monies back if possible and have no idea how to do it.

I lost $650.00 for nothing!

Sarah of Alexandria, KY (04/17/07)
My husband received an offer in the mail today from Ramada Plaza Resorts.  We, thinking Ramada was a reputable name, thought it was legit, so he called and talked to them for half an hour.  Then they dropped the catch - pay $698 now and $698 on your trip.

When he told them he would talk to me and call back, they said that the offer wouldn't be there if he hung up.  Then they asked for his credit card.  At that point he knew it was a scam.

While he talked to them, I was searching the name to see if I could find any complaints and I found this site. I told my husband to tell them we couldn't afford $1,396 for a trip and that guy told my husband to "get a better job" and hung up on him!!

Lovely huh!

Marty of Lake Worth FL (04/10/07)
WOW, I cant believe what Im reading. I wish I read these complaints before we left on our Ramada Plaza Getaway. We asked several times before leaving if this was a time share hooked package and were told no every time. I found it fishy that we had to check into a welcome center and not directly into the hotel.

Sure enough, when we arrived in Orlando our hotel vouchers were not released until we went on the time share tour. Basicaly kicking us out into the street, or pay full price, or tour the time share to recieve the benifits of our package, no way around it. We innitially gave a $50 deposit that Ramada asked for, which we had no problem with. When we arrived they also asked us for an additional $40 deposit that we would get back after the tour, also $24 for taxes and services, all of which was news to us.

After moaning about the scam to the welcome center assistants, I quickly relized we were getting nowhere fast with these people and proceded to go to the Hotel. At the Hotel desk I mentioned my frusrations to the front desk employees and they laughed telling me they hear about this complaint on a daily basis.

At this point I was so upset I didnt want anything to do with Ramada or this time share obviosly, I walked back to the welcome center and was able to get my $40 and $24 deposits back and checked out 15 minutes after I checked in. I ripped up the package and left it on the front desk. My wife, 16 month old son and I drove to Ocala (one hour away) to stay with relatives. I wont even mention the filth of the Hotel or the plans we made around this package. Believe me, this is only half the story.

Lisa of Bardonia NY (04/10/07)
Vacation was horrible. Hotel room had huge roaches, many of them, smelled bad. My daughter got sick probably from this or food poisoning. Had to rush her to the local hospital at three in the morning the first night. The room we switched to was not much better at all. We asked the security guard to check for roaches, because we were scared out of our mind, but he and no one else seemed to care.

We went down to file a complaint. Room 443 has roaches, extremely large and many of them. No one was surprised, in fact, the gentleman in Welcome Center said that there have been many complaints about roaches in the rooms.

There is no housekeeping after 10:30 at night, so we had to move our own luggage and check the room ourselves. We couldn't even do this thouroughly because my daughter got so sick and I had to attend to her. Spent the night in the hospital which was almost a bittersweet relief because we didn't have to be in that hotel, even though I was worried sick about my daughter. Couldn'teven move to a different hotel the next day because she was so sick.

The following day was the cruise, which was just as horrific. Ship was terrifyingly small and OLD!!!!! Not at all as advertised. Food was substandard, I even tried to upgrade hoping it would be better, but still tasteless. Buffets offered very little selection and you had to pay for even a glass of water, which is ridiculous. Needless to say, the ship had nothing to do on it at all. Entertainment was bingo, and we could not even understand the people running it. Any other entertainment was not quality, and I am a musician, I know.

I am out $1700 dollars.

Ruth of Highland Mills NY (04/07/07)
Confirmed vacation over phone. Authorized payment of $340.00 down and payment of $116.00 per month. Rec'd package and decided to cancel. They told me in the package that if I canceled within 3 days, I would be given Full refund of deposit. Instead, I was treated very cruel and they're deducting $87.00 from my deposit amount of which is illegal as stated (Full Amount of $349.00 should be refunded) They said within 2-3 days my bank will be credited, so far I haven't rec'd a credit issued to my card. Also, I would like the full amount as stated in package, NOT Less $87.00 penalty charge. I'm disabled on a fixed income and can't just give money away.

Lisa of Greenfield TN (04/04/07)
I contacted these people after a patient told me he had a wonderful time on one of these trips. I was mad after talking to them, why I even went ahead and fell for it is way beyond my comprehension. I have been all over the world, to get scammed just infuriates me. I have demanded a refund, and been promised many many things, which are lies. I have news for these idiots, you reap what you sow. I will not put up with this. If I don't get my money back I will drive to their headquarters and demand my money in person. This is unreal! I cannot believe this!!!

They have promised to refund most of my money and now amazingly, I cannot get in touch with customer service, suddenly nobody is available to talk to me. I won't give up. Even if I have to drive from Tennessee to Florida, they don't know me. Nothing stops me. I will not be cheated out of one nickel. I don't need an army I am someone who refuses to be screwed over, that is why I am divorced. If I wanted to get screwed over I would still be married. Now yall have a good day!

I am out $500 for nothing absolutely nothing. I have already requested a refund and been denied.  

Joseph of San Antonio TX (04/04/07)
Got a travel voucher from them about a trip to the Bahamas and credited to me the sum of $1,600. I tried calling the above phone number to inform them I neither negotiated this trip nor am I interested. I am writting to inform Mr. Daniel Lambert who signed the voucher that my name should be removed from whatever source they got it. I am not interested in any trip nor in any amount credicted to me.

Darlene of Abilene TX (04/03/07)
I just received in the mail today a credit voucher for $1600.00 for a Florida/Tropical Caribbean Cruise Vacation Package. I was really excited when I read over it but at the same time very skeptical because it sounded too good to be true. I wanted to do some research so that I was fully prepared and new what to expect when making my phone call tomorrow to the 1-800 # to claim my family's dream vacation. I searched the internet for the cruise ships and hotels and found them to be very beautiful. Who wouldn't get excited! After I looked at the pictures, I came across this site.

Thank Goodness for this site. I read 23 pages of complaints regarding this same package and how so many people were ripped-off, scammed, and bullied into something that they thought was their dream come true. The results of that one phone call created for some families the feelings of a shattered dream and for others it caused great physical, emotional, and monetary distress. I am so grateful that I did not fall victim for this scam but I am very sorry for those who did not have the opportunity to see this site before throwing themselves out to those wolves. Thank you again!

Maya of Kansas City MO (04/02/07)

When I received a letter in the mail about the Ramada Plaza Resorts I called the toll-free number and talked to a salesman who tried to smooth talk me into purchasing the package deal. Well, he did. After talking on the phone with this man (James) for about thirty minutes I reluctantly gave him my credit card number. After I got off the phone with him I wanted to see a picture of the cruise ship and got online only to find out that the whole package deal didn‘t exist.

I called them back to ask questions about the trip and when I got on the phone with a supervisor, who at the time didn't know that I had already paid for the trip. When I asked him questions about the trip he tried to pressure me into paying him money by saying things like, you've never been to Florida? So this could be a very exciting trip for you.

When I refused to give him my card number he changed his tone and basically hung up on me. I called my bank immediately and they reversed the payment. I changed my card number because frankly I think these people are crazy. After I called a third time a very nice salesman answered my call. He sounded really confused when I explained the situation to him. I told him to Google who he was working for. I think my story freaked him out a little.

Tiffany of Rapid City MI (03/30/07)
After receiving a vacation getaway $1600 package offer, I called the customer service and set up to make payments which were automatically debited from my bank once a month. $698 total. After having a baby, I am unable to attend the dream vacation that I have placed my money on. I have contacted Ramada Plaza - which tells me to call customer service-who gives me the Account Supervisor. I receive a call back and am told I need to contact their cancellation department. I call the cancellation department who says refunds can not be made. Although, the vacation package only says, once the vacation has been scheduled, you have 3 days to cancel with a full refund. I haven't even scheduled anything yet! I haven't even paid for more than myself. There was no contract, nor was their any legally binding verbal agreemenet that took place. I am very upset and would like a refund. I have two small children and a good 60 years left in me and I can tell you, I will not be using anything that has anything to do with Ramada Plaza Resorts in those next 60 years!!

Felipe Marambio of Montreal, Canada (03/29/07)
I received a travel voucher from Ramada Plaza Resorts, by mail, for $1600 as a result of my responsible financial history. My first thought was how would anyone other than my bank, here in Montreal, know of my financial history? The only history I have in Florida is having paid a speeding ticket I got in December 2006. And when we went to Florida that time we stayed with a friend of my girlfriend's. A free $1600 for a trip with a bunch of great details (Award-winning accomodations, Round-trip cruise to Nassau, among others) just seems too good to be true.

Terry of Olathe KS (03/27/07)
Total vacation a big rip to get you to buy time-share. Specifically, scheduled a vacation from 3/17/07 to 3/24/07. On 3/16/07 realized it needed one more night called to add one more night and they charged my credit card $108.00 for the hotel and 1 more day of a sub-compact rental car. When I went to check out at the rental car (Budget) they said I still owed the $28.75 for the extra day - Ramada had not paid them. Also all the extra charges ended up at $102.40 for the free rental car. The remaining $77.75 was supposed to be for the 1 extra night at the Ramada Westgate in Orlanda. However, their rate was only $49.00.

The rest of the trip was terrible also. They should have paid us to stay in the Ramada on Commercial Ave in Ft. Lauderdale, it was such a dump. The faucets fell off the wall every time you turned on the shower etc. They cruise ship was the same - terrible. I was talked into the $100 upgrade for an outside room so that I wouldn't get as seasick. Some people did get an upgrade to the sundeck. We were in M45 - the only difference between ours and the room 4 ft away was a small porthole that you could look out of if you stood on the bed.

Again, there were a lot of other charges that were not mentioned. $10/person per day fuel charge, $19.50/person/day tax, $12.00 to park. We were also charged $12.00 per night on $49 hotel room (25%?) You had to go to time share meetings that were supposed to be 90 minutes. One was almost 3 hours and the other 5 hours.

Mainly, I just want the $159 back for the car, difference in hotel and upgrade charge. But after being hung up on by 4 different people at Ramada International I don't think that is going to happen

Bob of Davidsonville, MD (03/21/07)
The most arrogant and useless people that I have ever dealt with. Both parties hung up on me while I was trying to get the system straigntened out. They are not delivering anything that they have promised and lie about everything. They sell you a bait and switch package. I think that the US Dept of Justice needs to investigate this group.

I am trying to get my money back that my wife paid them for this trip.

Erin of Brooks Canada (03/20/07)
I think I have been scammed. After 2 hours on the phone today, crying and frustrated I finally looked on the internet for help...and guess what these guys should be jailed. I called today to book my trip and got the run around, 11 people I talked to, they HAD THE WRONG NAME on my identifying code. I was so frustrated and starting to feel sick to my stomach that I asked for my money back, NO was my answer, but I could pay $58 more for an extension....get me once shame on you, get me twice shame on me.

So of course I said 'no you will not be getting anymore money from me, not until I get to see if these trips are worth it'. I live in Canada, I will be pissed righ