My SO had a strange, yet similar experience as that reported by Michelle of Puyallup on 1/16/07, only the day before.
As with this prior report, we were promised a free dinner and limo. Ride as well as a $500 shopping spree and trip (and it wouldn't surprise me if it was the same coupons). While we didn't buy, we noted that it was fairly high-pressure (they tried using two salesman when we wouldn't budge). Our sphiel was with Vacation Internationale, which we understand may be affiliated somehow with RCI.
Nevertheless, after doing some checking, we ended up contacting the Department of Licensing's Camping and Timeshare Division (available on-line at http://www.dol. Wa. Gov/business/timeshares/). I spoke with one of the investigators and he was very interested in getting a consumer complaint from us. Because the complaint must be in writing, we were mailed the forms and have since mailed them back in.
Additionally, we noted that whichever entity it was that gave us the prizes likely violated Washington law. The above-listed website contains links to the RCWs. Washington has a law (RCW 64.36.320) which holds timeshare promoters strictly liable for the prizes and gifts which they promise and entitles a consumer to triple damages. Moreover, it's a further violation (RCW 19.170.030 (6) to have charges (whether called taxes, shipping and handling or deposits) on otherwise "free" prizes.
Based on my communications with the DOL, it sounds like they're interested in complaints along these lines. I would strongly advise others who believe if they have meritorious complaints to report them to the DOL.
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