Fun and Sun Getaways Travel Discount Wholesaler I purchased a vacation package from Fun and Sun Getaways. Boy, was that the biggest mistake of my life. They were quick to take my money and wouldn't return it when I cancelled the purchase. Hallandale, Florida

Back in February 2012, I purchased a vacation package with Fun and Sun Getaways.  They assured that I would get my money back if I cancel within a specific timeframe.  I did just that and they now claimed I must "Dispute" the charge with their merchant, Discount Travel Wholesalers.

Fun and Sun Getaways said my money is now in the merchant's hand and they no longer work with this merchant, Discount Travel Wholesalers.  Fun and Sun Getaways gave me the merchant's telephone #.  But of course, they wouldn't help me when I contacted them.  They said I must contact Fun and Sun Getaways as they only speak to distributors and other merchants and not with the customers directly.

Their policy stated 14-20 buisness days for refund to be posted on my bank statement.  I patiently waited and waited.  When I contacted Fun and Sun Getaways, first they said they have not refunded my money because there is a $75 charge which I disputed.  Fun and Sun Getaways said as soon as I accept this $75 charge for cancellation, I will get my money back.

A month later, I called Fun and Sun Getaways to inquiry of my refund.  They then said my money is with the merchant, Discount Travel Wholesalers, and that they are no longer working with this merchant.  Fun and Sun Getaways had the audacity to email and advise me to have my bank dispute the charge to get my money back.    

I went to my bank, Bank of the West, and submitted a request for the dispute.  Bank of the West turned around and informed me that my claim is too late.  Therefore, they would not be able to file the dispute for me.   They claimed that their debit policy stated that any dispute must be done within 60 days from the purchase/transaction date.  Sadly, it is now over 5 months.  

I am so frustrated and not sure what I can do about this whole situation.  I only wish these companies be punished for their scam.  I did learn two things:  One was that Fun and Sun Getaways and their merchant, Discount Travel Wholesalers, are scammers; two is never to use a debit card as a replacement for a credit card for any purchase or transaction as the debit card doesn't not afford me the same protection as a credit card would.