Attorney General's News Release

July 13, 1999

Nixon files suit against Robin Leach and two travel service companies for bogus vacation offers

Independence, Mo. — Attorney General Jay Nixon filed suit today against two travel services companies and their spokesperson, television personality Robin Leach, for misleading consumers into believing they had won or were entitled to free vacations.

The Florida-based companies National Travel Services, Inc. and Ramada Plaza Resorts, Inc. sent travel certificates to consumers in Missouri and other states leading them to believe they had won free or reduced-cost cruises and trips to Florida and the Caribbean. Consumers were told to call a toll-free number to claim their prize. If they called the number, consumers were told they must pay hundreds of dollars for the cost of accommodations and asked to provide their credit card numbers.

Consumers that paid between $350 and $700 per person for the vacation packages were told the packages were valued between $3,000 and $4,000. The packages were worth far less than consumers paid for them and "cruises" often turned out to be day-trip ferry rides with "Las Vegas-style" bingo. The travel services did not tell consumers the packages did not include airfare, taxes and other hidden expenses, and that the consumer would be required to attend a time-share presentation.

Robin Leach, former host of "Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous" appeared on brochures and in videos distributed by National Travel Services. Mailings from Ramada Plaza Resorts also beared the seal of the American Society of Travel Agents, which the company was not authorized to use.

"Companies use celebrities because consumers often trust these high-profile people," Nixon said. "It's disappointing to see someone like Leach use his celebrity to help defraud consumers and it will not be tolerated in this state."

Nixon is seeking a permanent injunction against the companies and Leach in addition to restitution, penalties and court costs. Eight other states have filed suits against the travel companies. Six of those states are also suing Leach.

Missourians with complaints concerning National Travel Services or Ramada Plaza Resorts should call the Attorney General's Consumer Protection Hotline at 800-392-8222.

Inquiries from consumers should be directed to consumer@ago.mo.gov or 1-800-392-8222 (from within Missouri) or 573-751-3321 (outside Missouri).

All media inquiries should be directed to Press Secretary John Fougere.

E-mail      Phone: 573-751-8844         Fax: 573-751-5818