Travelfast International Inc

Located in San Mateo, Travelfast International Inc. operates as a travel agency with a very distinct and specialized focus. Publicly, the company is better known by its brand name, Mango Tours, which has carved out a significant niche in the tourism market, primarily concentrating on vacation packages and travel services to the Philippines. This specialization is a double-edged sword for potential clients; it offers deep expertise for a specific destination but limits options for those looking to travel elsewhere. The company has been in business for over four decades, suggesting a long history and established relationships within its area of focus.

Services and Specializations

Mango Tours, the operational name for Travelfast International, presents itself as a premier tour operator for travelers heading from the United States to the Philippines. Their offerings are comprehensive for this destination, including international flights, hotel bookings, and complete tour packages. They frequently advertise exclusive promo deals and claim their flight prices are often cheaper than booking directly with airlines. This can be a major draw for the Filipino-American community or anyone planning a detailed trip to the archipelago. Their website showcases a variety of customized travel itineraries, from beach holidays to cultural tours, indicating a deep knowledge of the destination. The agency also provides services for travel to other parts of Asia and Europe, but their primary marketing and expertise are clearly centered on the Philippines.

The Positives: Strengths and Potential Benefits

For individuals planning a trip to the Philippines, using a specialized agency like Mango Tours has clear advantages. The agents' focused knowledge can be invaluable for navigating the complexities of multi-island travel, understanding local customs, and finding accommodations that suit specific needs. The company's longevity in the market suggests a stable operation. Furthermore, the business notes a wheelchair-accessible entrance, which is a crucial consideration for travelers with mobility needs. Their claim of offering exclusive travel deals and competitive pricing on booking flights is a significant selling point for budget-conscious travelers.

Points of Concern and Criticisms

Despite its specialization, prospective clients should be aware of several critical drawbacks. The most immediate is the extremely limited operating schedule of the San Mateo office. Being open only on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM makes in-person consultations and timely phone communication very difficult for people with conventional work schedules. This restricted availability is a significant operational hurdle for customer service.

Furthermore, customer feedback raises more substantial concerns. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) gives the company a B- rating, citing a failure to respond to two complaints filed against the business. A review of public complaints reveals recurring themes that potential customers should carefully consider during their travel planning:

• Communication and Accuracy: Several clients have reported receiving incorrect information from agents, leading to serious travel disruptions. Issues have included wrong advice on visa requirements, which resulted in travelers being stuck at airports for hours, and misinformation about included services like airport shuttles.
• Pricing and Hidden Fees: Some customers have alleged they were significantly overcharged for flights and hotels, discovering later that they could have booked the same arrangements for much less online. There are also reports of agencies attempting to charge re-issue fees for airline-initiated schedule changes, a practice that airlines themselves may not require.
• Customer Service in Crisis: When flights are canceled or emergencies arise, some clients have found it difficult to get adequate support. The structure of booking through a third-party agency means the airline will direct the customer back to the agency for any changes, and if the agency is unresponsive or unhelpful, the traveler is left with few options.
• Service Fulfillment: Complaints mention paid-for services, such as airport transportation, not being properly arranged, leading to further frustration and unexpected costs upon arrival at the destination.

Conclusion and Recommendation

Travelfast International Inc., operating as Mango Tours, occupies a specific and potentially valuable space in the agencies of travel and tourism sector. Its deep focus on the Philippines makes it a compelling option for first-time visitors or those planning complex itineraries who would benefit from specialized knowledge. The promise of competitive travel deals is attractive.

However, the considerable downsides cannot be ignored. The restrictive office hours are a practical inconvenience. More seriously, the pattern of customer complaints regarding misinformation, pricing, and inadequate support during travel disruptions is a significant red flag. Potential clients should weigh the benefits of their specialized expertise against the risks highlighted in customer reviews. It is highly recommended to verify all information independently, get detailed written confirmations of all bookings and inclusions, and compare their pricing against direct airline and hotel rates before committing to one of their vacation packages.