Bridget Heekin

Review of Overseas Travel

I've taken 6-7 trips with OAT. I've enjoyed them u...

I've taken 6-7 trips with OAT. I've enjoyed them until the last trip - to "Ancient Kingdoms." It was was horrendous. I should have been prepared, given the fact that I received a survey to complete BEFORE I took the trip, and subsequently a letter regarding my future trip AFTER I returned! Seems the infrastructure at OAT is deteriorating!!!!

Almost 50% of the time was "free time - on your own." The guide was lazy and solicitous, blatently requesting high ratings regarding facilitation and contributions, when in fact his participation was minimal (although the local guides were excellent). I called OAT after my return to advise them of the significant difference in quality of itinerary and guide, to be dismissed and offered a minimal credit in an attempt to placate me. I pursued it further, to the executive level, again to be dismissed as having a "difference of opinion" from other travelers. I explained that frequent discussions among travelers during the excursion was of the disappointment in all aspects of the trip. Despite being a frequent traveler with OAT, aware of past performance and trips to Africa, Greece, Turkey, Russia, the Adriatic, Japan, I was dismissed as "arbitrary.".

I was so appalled by the response, and so disappointed with the quality of service and responses by OAT that I have vowed NEVER to travel with them again. Loyalty and constructive recommendations regarding recent failures is of no value, or consequence.

Good bye, OAT. Never Again! Buyer beware!!!!