Hobbit Travel closing unfortunate, says Bursch Travel president

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The recent announcement by Twin Cities travel company Hobbit Travel, has been all over the media and the Internet.

Fred Bursch, president of Bursch Travel American Express in Alexandria, reacted with this statement: “It is unfortunate that this announcement was made right before the busy holiday travel season. I have known the owners of Hobbit for almost 30 years and this is a sad day for them and their employees.”

Bursch, a former national officer with the American Society of Travel Agents, continued, “It is important that the traveling public not compare Hobbit with most other travel agencies. Hobbit was known for risky, financial speculation by contracting far in advance for charter flights and airline seats. They were caught with long-term commitments when the economy slowed down.”

Travelers booked with Hobbit should contact the cruise line, tour company or airline to verify the status of their booking. If their booking was paid for by credit card, the travelers may dispute the charges under the Fair Credit Billing Act. If the traveler purchased travel insurance, any financial default by Hobbit may be covered by the travel insurance.

Bursch Travel American Express operates 13 offices in the Upper Midwest and has been serving travelers for more than 53 years. While 2009 resulted in a significant decrease in operating revenues, the company reports positive financial success for the most recent fiscal year.

Bursch added, “Our employees took wage and hour cuts that allowed us to manage our business prudently during this most recent down-turn. We are now poised to continue in business for the next 50 years!”

Tags: hobbit travel, business, travel, bursch