Recently received a call stating that we were selected to receive a free vacation from an entry we filled out a exhibit center. Curious, we called. The vacation and a $20 reimbursement from a restaurant of our choice if we sit through there presentation. Bored, we went.
Sundance presented a very promising vacation package if there were no surprises. Bottom line : 30 vacation weeks for $15, 000 at any of the Sundance owned properties across the U.S. A member fee approximately $350 a year to cover trip taxes and service charges even if no trips are taken that year. You pay a booking fee of $99 for every trip booked. You can offer your vacations weeks to anyone you like. Or invite as many people you like for the booking fee and $30 per night for an extra room as need. Other fees are discussed and still each trip is cheap. WOW!
Not the gullible type. Of course, if you sign up now you get additional weeks and access to a surplus vacation list at dirt cheap.
Still, WOW. Sundance boast consumer awards, major league sports afiliations and support major charities. It did seem pretty simple. At the presentations end were wisked away by our own private consultant without a chance to take our free consolation trip and $20 dinner out the door.
As we sit in a room at our own table and consultant we are getting anxious. The 60 min of our time is now pushing two hours. We turn the offer down graciously. Our consultant asks if we could wait for her supervisor. Just a formality. The supervisor offers a trial package at a much lower price with the option to pick up the rest of the package at alatere date if the trial lives up to our expectations. They show us marketing materials. We fall hook line and sinker. A little nervous and excited we write a check and leave.
That night we start researching the companies associated with our vacation package. Pulled up the consumer award, major league sports and charity site online and yes, they are affiliated. Whew! As we roll along the web, there it is, my worst nightmare. Dozens of Sundance Vacation reviews listing scams, misrepresentation, dirty accommodations, no availability, unable to cancel, uncooperative personnel, the list goes on. Never slept that night.
Made the decision to cancel my check, consult an attorney and notify Sundance that I made a mistake and see what happens. To my surprise when I explained my concerns over all the bad reviews Sundance cancelled our agreement and sent me a confirmation letter.
With all the negative reviews, how could this company still be in business for 19 year? Everyone we have delt with from Sundance were informative, courteous and professional. In no way do we feel that the staff in Rockaway NJ failed to disclose the terms of the vacation package. Just too expensive to take the chance. Hope they are on the up and up and can reverse the poor reputation. Until then, we will keep our money.