CALIFORNIA CONSUMER PROTECTION

Illustration showing a frustrated couple standing under a large white VIP tent at a concert venue, with the tent blocking their view of the illuminated stage and crowd in the background, depicting how Ticketmaster sold premium second-row seats without disclosing the view obstruction

Ticketmaster sold me “great seats” that turned out to be obstructed. Where’s my refund?

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Vincent Manierre paid $475 each for second-row Oasis concert tickets at the Rose Bowl, expecting a clear stage view. A VIP tent blocked one-third of the stage. The tickets were not labeled obstructed view despite Ticketmaster’s stated policy requiring such disclosure. Ticketmaster refused a refund, claiming the event organizer controls refunds but would not reveal who that organizer is. Under Federal Trade Commission rules, selling tickets without disclosing obstructions when company policy promises such labeling can constitute deceptive trade practices.

holland america issues

I paid Holland America for a cruise, but now it wants another $800!

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Greg Rothman thought his Holland America cruise was locked in: a seven-day Caribbean sailing in a veranda stateroom for $650, courtesy of an MGM casino certificate. He pays in full and then books non-refundable airline tickets from Los Angeles to Fort Lauderdale. Hours later, a second invoice arrives — this one demanding another $800 or threatening to bump him down to a windowless interior cabin.