Money tips: Three fees you don't have to pay (CBC Marketplace)

Originally broadcast January 30, 2015
Seems everyone is watching their money this time of the year. So we reveal three ways to keep your money in your pocket, from a tourist fee you may not have to pay to bank discounts they may not be telling you about to questionable warranties.
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[@anthonymiller5540]

I live in United States but I watch your program and I am just totally involved with it. The background work, in producing of the program, the people involved in making this series is I believe, the most excellent TV program I've ever seen. I'll continue watching thank you so much! Anthony Miller from Tennessee in the USA.

[@mikester314]

Ditto! They should make a similar program for the US. Keep up the good work!

[@PareProductionsChannel]

the businesses should have to pay the destination fee themselves because of the destination that attracts more customers for their business. charge the 3% to the business.

[@YoonJiEva]

Pare Productions in that case they’d just raise the prices by 3%. They’ll always relocate the tax onto the consumer

[@Sulfen]

Eva AK People already assume that they’re going to pay higher prices in destination areas to upkeep it. So that’s a lot better. And the businesses can always fight back and try to negotiate a better system to upkeep the area.

[@nfwolf20]

That wouldn’t make any different...

[@ATGAT]

@@nfwolf20 It would make it transparent to the customer. Price advertised is price paid+tax *and arguably tax should also be included, but at least taxes being added after are consistent per province.

[@khandipwens1955]

That mayor looks so crooked and shady!!!

[@jeffreycarter2548]

Definitely a crook. Just look at him squirm trying to answer those questions

[@johnbrandt2047]

khandi pwens He is!

[@Cam-vz3le]

Reminds me of our CRIME Minister

[@MrThefatheroftheyear]

As if he feasts upon the freshly clipped toenail clippings of newborn infant animals 'n such. And that's at the very least!

[@keithbolton8601]

i thought that he looked a wee bit sleekit too...

[@robertlovesdogs4824]

it's not misleading it's thievery

[@benmoro]

Touristy areas are well known for all sorts of scams.

[@themanager1980]

Everywhere.

[@Pseudynom]

The whole US tax system is a scam. And with that I mean that the tax is being added at the checkout and not included in the labels on the shelf.

[@Linda-zx7lk]

@@Pseudynom 💜 *Same thing in Canada!*

[@macioluko9484]

Yes. Here's a cheap tip: Look at all the tourist laden spots and literally walk two streets off and magically discover some of the most beautiful sights in the city: 20-40% cheaper prices!

[@BeezerWashingbeard]

"It's mandatory?" "It's a fee, yes..." What a non-answer.

[@marcbensen8963]

Because if its truly optional half the people wojldnt pay it

[@bakshimajjhoo6939]

;

[@bakshimajjhoo6939]

;

[@murphine969]

She should be in politics

[@larrystevenson1048]

I was one of the bank customers who benefited from Adele's efforts. Thank you.

[@lh98]

Larry Stevenson You was one of them or you are one of them? Did they take it away from you is that why you said was??

[@WynterKA]

This should be illegal.

[@geordie2652]

Why exactly? Because you can opt-out of a fee it should be illegal? How does that make any sense?

[@StevenVillman]

@@geordie2652 No, he means that the fee should be *_outright_* outlawed *_in the first place!_*

[@stevet5087]

@@geordie2652 ...it’s technically hidden.

[@BellaBella-un8bl]

What’s the purpose of charging bank fees in the first place? I never understood that

[@zerocool160]

IT'S CALLED THEFT.

[@gnarlyrandom3033]

Not really

[@TheSpoonyluvin]

Yep. All taxes are theft. If you don't pay, eventually someone with guns comes to put you in a cage. That's theft...

[@gnarlyrandom3033]

Have you heard of public services? Those all are based upon taxes

[@gnarlyrandom3033]

Even educating people in local schools is based on taxes; without taxes, the world would be a much worse place.

[@TheSpoonyluvin]

@@gnarlyrandom3033 The American government functioned just fine with minimal taxes up until WW1. Now, I pay taxes on the money I make, the money I spend, and then I have to rent the things I want to keep possession of aka property tax. It comes close to stealing half of what I earn. What has that money gotten us? A country constantly at war, an education system that teaches kids what to think and not how to think, and due to their meddling in higher education and healthcare, bankruptcy inducing pricetags for the aforementioned services. To top it all off, we're $23* trillion in debt. Despite being a graduated system, the income tax devastates the middle class. It's entirely geared towards benefiting people that aren't paid on a w2. There's a reason why there's 70,000 pages of tax code. Those loopholes aren't there to help the average American. No, I strongly disagree with you. There would be far less corruption and far more freedom with a government funded by bond sales and donations.

[@ronsmith4325]

I love how that old has-been former mayor was trying to compare pricing between Niagara Falls and Toronto.... Oh gee, lets see... A city with nearly 3 million people being compared to a TOWN with a population of under 100K. Yeah, keep grasping at those straws so you don't lose your cash cow... that will work.

[@1588chrissy]

Ron Smith agree! He came across as someone who just might be corrupt

[@Linda-zx7lk]

@@1588chrissy 💜 ABSOLUTELY CURRUPT! *THE DON'T EVEN TRACK THE SO-CALLED TAX MONEY!*

[@karlwjm]

He definitely lined his pockets with some of that money.

[@Livefreeman]

what difference does it make if city population was 100k compared to 3 million people? people shouldn't get scammed regardless of population size. over pricing food and services compared to other cities is a scam

[@camerontaylor209]

But it's a destination!

[@mrvgoat1294]

I love CBC and I live in the USA :D

[@AbhishekSingh-pp1ks]

Same here.

[@tl11rj7x]

me too haha

[@daveem4008]

Well I love CBC and am from KSA

[@Trd2020]

same

[@AngelaShiflet]

Matt Vogt me too

[@MrBeard17]

I was in Niagra Falls and fortunately had the knowledge of their shady "tax". Look at the bill before you pay and ask to remove it. They usually do as they dont want attention brought to it. One place acted tough and said its mandatory.. I said Im not paying into bullshit and put my wallet back in my pocket. The clerk then 'did me a favor and made an exception' before i walked out.

[@Linda-zx7lk]

@Lesbian Amazon Sister 💜 I would to -- *YOU* would *NOT* be *RUDE* by calling *OUT* this *CORRUPTION!* *THEY ARE LYING THIEVES!*

[@jessikapiche6097]

you should have said ''no, i am calling the police...'' just to see the clerk reaction...

[@Robert-zx2df]

Just don't tip

[@Indanao1]

@@jessikapiche6097 Police would treat you like a criminal. It's the way they are training them now days. They are taught to always take the easiest way, and maintain the status quo. As a group, they are not standing for the rights of people.

[@Sandragoldenlee]

I lived in Toronto and occassionally paid for parking and ate in several restaurants. I worked a few summers ago in Niagara Falls and the prices were outrageous. This man knows not what he is talking about.I can understand why he is no longer the mayor Niagara Falls is gouging people left and right. I worked at an Ihop and the average price for breakfast for two was close to 40 dollars and that was just a standard breakfast. Add coffee and juice and you're paying over 50. The TIF is a ripoff and from what I've been reading IHop is refusing to take it off. I am so glad not to be working there anymore. I never ran in to such high prices in Toronto.

[@johndoe-wv3nu]

So glad I didn't bother to take my out of town friends to the falls. I haven't been in many years, don't care if I ever go again.

[@mattjohnston2]

I've had the same experience. Of course TO is expensive, but the Falls are far more so. Anywhere down that strip, anyways.

[@nonono965]

We went to the falls a couple of months ago. Stayed at a nice hotel by the falls. They asked us if we would like to pay an extra 40 dollars for a view of the falls. I have worked in the hotel industry and she was super nice about it until I pointed out all the rooms in that particular hotel were all on one side facing the falls. Nice try hotel.

[@browneyedguitargirl]

When it comes down to it, banks are still businesses. They exist to make money. Often, discounts for eligible people (seniors, students, etc) are found in some of the fine print (or if you ask), but no business has the obligation to save their consumer any money. They have an obligation to their shareholders (in public companies in the USA) to increase profits and the shareholders' dividends. I work retail (not on commission), and we have many discounts (AAA members, teachers, senior citizens, students, employees of the mall, and more), but we are not supposed to suggest these savings to the consumers. If customers ask about the discounts, we happily inform them about additional discounts, and apply any and all that are applicable.

[@13stneilson]

I just stayed at the Oakes hotel in Niagara Falls and they charged an 8% tif fee and when I asked for it to be removed they said it was mandatory.

[@TheKeivan324102334]

you shoulve been like call the police i WILL NOT be robbed, and if its not a real tax you should be good to go

[@debrataylor4806]

All you have to do is ask in advance and if they know that your not happy 2alk away they will get the hint and remove forever

[@kaelaleedaley]

I would consider making a complaint in writing to the Hotel. See if you can get a refund for this payment x

[@laurenrenee2610]

I would call headquarters and complain. Or their local news make a big stink over it so everyone knows that they are adding a illegal tax bet they remove it then

[@zombiasnow15]

Get a lawyer involved. They Will change their mind then!

[@zachcarter6181]

I guess the closet thing we have in the U.S. to Marketplace is: ABC 2020. Marketplace is still better though.

[@aliyahfreeman4347]

It is. I wish we had a network like this in the U.S.

[@triparadox.c]

Your profile picture *failed* to trick me haha XD

[@cameranmanner4701]

Marketplace can investigate large multinational corporations as it doesnt always rely on advertising from them. 2020 is a show financed by corporate ads. I think this is reason why David Horowitz (fight back) ended his program.

[@annakats1482]

thought it was a piece of hair and i tried to swipe it off

[@zombiasnow15]

I love watching 2020

[@achristian7015]

I would refuse to pay it, period! If they do not want my business, I can go elsewhere.

[@thedougman2008]

This is similar to banks. I used to work with a bank for customer service. A lot of the things that i had to tell customers "no" for, were actually a "yes" if the customer asked for a manager, but I am not allowed to tell them that. There were cases where people sad and needed the money and I tried to infer that they needed a manager, like "There is nothing that 'I MYSELF' can do". Some people would catch on, but others would just be sad and hang up. Trying to infer like i had done could have gotten me a warning.

[@fuckthisbs]

well what were those things? You can say it now

[@pokah1111]

This is true, just tell the restaurants you're a local and they remove the fee's. Park for free, ETC.

[@alexisknows6513]

pokah1111 ...we would drive down to the falls more often , but cost of parking is getting out of hand at most hotels ,plus the surprise fees just make you wonder if city hall is on the take

[@simplelifed7523]

I tried to ask to remove DMF from a hotel in Calgary. They refused and insisted they have to, is that right?

[@danburch9989]

I have never purchased an extended warranty plan in all the years I've bought products. In my experience, I would have never been able to collect because the item failed after the warranty period or was so out of date that the warranty was useless. And as the video points out, replacements are not new but refurbished. I would recommend that consumers take the money they would have spent on warranties for computers, TVs, DVD players, and everything else and put it into their own "warranty fund cookie jar". That would pay for repairs or replacements of failed products. And if it doesn't fail, that money could buy a newer model when the time comes.

[@Phlegethon]

The guy that says the tif isn’t sneaky looks like the sneakiest guy with his cheap suit and mustache and haircut

[@PlanetXtreme]

knock-off monopoly man

[@mozeby1975]

He’s a politician = sneaky.

[@l1a2g3e4r5]

One thing that makes me mad about this is that the neighbourhoods around the tourist area are completely run down. The city should look into updating the surrounding areas

[@BenyikFamilyFun]

We went to Niagara recently and due to the extraordinary extra taxes/fees/whatever they want to call it, (not to mention $19 at IHOP for breakfast of 2 eggs, bacon and a pancake - for 1 person! and $250 a night for a no more than mediocre hotel with $20 for parking ) and the fact that yeah I can easily find comparable in Toronto or many other places... in future we will be looking for an alternate "destination". I hope all Niagara visitors see this report.

[@normalperson26]

Benyik Family Fun BFF same thing happened to me . niagra is big scammer place

[@orangeradishneo]

well when people only come during the summer, they need to offset costs of running their business. everyone who lives in the area knows the struggle with unemployment in the winter. it's a tourist attraction people have been coming to see for a LONG time, that's not going to change. there's plenty of hotels for like $100 a night if you don't come during freaking new years or a long holiday weekend in the summer, and do a little research... that's the same with literally every other hotel, flight, cruise. higher demand = higher prices. the crowne plaza a few years ago was sold out for MONTHS straight. get a hotel away from the tourism area, get out of the hiltons and sheratons, go down lundy's lane, grab an adventure pass for the family, it includes bus passes which run every 10 minutes in the summer for all niagara parks attractions. even out to queenston. it'll take you down lundy's lane with less crowded places to eat, and cheaper too. literally everything you buy within walking distance of the falls/river/whirlpool will be overpriced. if you do a vacation right it can be done cheaply.

[@megashani91]

@@orangeradishneo exactly, everyone knows tourist areas have a spike in prices. in jamaica if i go to montego bay i try my best not to need/want anything. a mint sweetie maybe be $5 in kingston but $20 in montego bay

[@etrnlygr8tful]

Its crazy how that guy defend the fee is not under handed...they label it as a tax, to people they'll think it is mandatory? It is a robbery without using a weapon, just a receipt. It's not a matter of additional $3 to the bill, but 3% of the bill & that makes a huge difference. There are some countries in Europe who tries to trick their customers especially tourists about charging you condiments, like salt & pepper that are on your table or even charge you that you did not even order or include a dish you thought is part of your meal till you look @ your bill. Look @ what happened to FS now with their under handed business dealings..KARMA is REAL. As for banking, I bank with credit union.

[@ivandiablo8282]

etrnlygr8tful well scratch off niagara falls off my list of places to go - charge extra to people already visiting an spending $$ in your town ? underhanded to say the least !!

[@djp411]

"my god, it's only 3% for goodness sake"... Hey shady mayor... give me 3% of everything you spend...

[@supercooled]

Extended warranties are a sham across the industry. It's only a matter of time when food industry will offer it too in case you feel the runs and want your money back.

[@zombiasnow15]

It's disgusting how banks and stores go out of their way to keep important information from you(the person that has been loyal to them for a lifetime).

[@bbushong67]

If a business wishes to contribute to THEIR fund for tourism, they should charge enough to cover those contributions, and not hide it behind an official looking 'fee'. The people are NOT paying for a better service; these companies are paying for things that increase THEIR revenue, but give the customer nothing. This is similar to the 'tourist' taxes in the US that get tacked onto hotels. City sales tax, county sales taxes, AND state sales taxes are added on first, THEN they add on even more, that local citizens don't pay. This is the same thing, except in the US, they're TAXES, approved by elected officials and bureaucrats, and they only apply to visitors (who have no say in the process). The excuse is that everybody does it, so why shouldn't everybody else... The best reason is that it's criminal and immoral to hide taxes and bilk people who are contributing to their economy in the first place.

[@sissiezelinski6679]

Ha ha ha ha! Those were great excuses... "This is a destination..." (isn't everywhere you choose to visit a destination??) "Do you know how much it costs to go to Toronto???"(We're justified because somewhere else is more expensive) "The government is aware, so that makes it not sneaky....." (Head shaking..)

[@systematic101]

Extended warranties are almost never worth it. You are pretty much always better off not getting the warranty and just paying to get it fixed if it breaks. Also, it's your fault you didn't read it. It was only 5 pages.

[@baronvonlimbourgh1716]

Warenties should be mandatory. Here everything has a minimum 2 year warrenty on it. If it breaks they fix it or replace it. And if it is a product that you reasonably can expect to last longer then 2 years you often still have a case to get a discount on the repair after the warenty ends. It's called coulance.

[@thomaslam6821]

Thanks for the information. If I ever go there...I know what to do with these scammers!

[@mikeallenma78]

"But, Toronto charges more!" gtfo Like a little kid.

[@runningfromabear8354]

I wanted to yell through the screen: "You're not Toronto!"

[@whosnkn]

I'm not speaking on behalf of anyone other than myself. I think the extended warranty part is a bit misleading because it only shows how it's offered by one company. I work in retail and we are instructed to be up front on what it covers and doesn't(If it's covered by damage or not). We do our best to listen to our customers to see if the warranty would benefit them so we can explain the value. We explain if within the first year, they have to go through the manufacturer in the first year then come to us. (Example Apple/Beats etc). Warranties aren't for every product or a customers situation, but in some cases they are. I'm sure someone will read this and say "of course you are defending warranties, you are a salesmen". But I look at the bigger picture. I'd rather be up front, honest and try to help someone find a product that is going to fit their needs and make them feel like they bought exactly what they came in to buy, then remember me for my help and come back to buy something else from me. I'd rather have those kind of customers than the ones who come back saying, you sold me a piece of crap laptop, tablet, etc. One of the best things you can do, is listen to someone and then ask questions about their lifestyle, so you can make the judgement call. I've sold many devices that normally I would recommend a warranty, but if they tell me they are a student in their last year of a University course and just need something to get them by, there is no point. But if they are a family, with pets and kids, I usually mention it, because we offer warranties that cover water and screen damage. For buyers what you need to ask is what does it cover. Damage coverage is always an added bonus, but if things like your battery, the power adapter and say other services that are offered over the 3 years like 1 free cleaning each year. That all alone would cost over 200$ just if you went to a computer shop. Then with the coverage of anything happening to it, ie harddrive fails, screen stops working, it's all covered. Everything has to make sense, and if the sales person is too pushy, don't buy it. Do yourself a favor and take the time if you have a moment to listen to the person selling you something, if they are asking questions that make sense (like do you have pets? Well our warranty covers damage or how often do you replace your cable for your phone? well if it breaks we will just give you a new one any time it breaks.) But the one situation I want most people to be aware of is when purchasing a monitor or TV. A LOT of monitor and TV manufacturers will only cover a product if it has say more than 14 dead pixels, in some cases warranties with a retailer will take a monitor or TV with just one dead pixel if they cannot rub it out or run RGB tests to try and fire it. Just remember, that not all manufacturers warranties are going to cover you as well. Once again, I'm not saying all warranties are worth it; however, please go into a purchase with an open mind as in some cases, they can save you money.

[@NaneelQueenOfDarknes]

Love you market place

[@cathyanderson8197]

......Comcast, famous for its "fees".

[@heidis6210]

Cathy Anderson so is direct tv!! They charge a sports fee and we don't even watch sports like seriously not at all so why do we have to pay it?

[@samuelgrahame3617]

"this is a destination" no kidding

[@Nimaoghanian]

Hilton Niagara didn't remove this ridiculous fee even after I asked and talked to the supervisor. That's significant amount... #Hilton #NiagaraFalls #HiltonNiagaraFalls

[@vijujg]

I faced the same at Hilton Calgary

[@jordandapup6595]

Why was fine print ever invented?

[@Perforated611]

+Jordandapup Lawyers, they run the damn world, and they know they HAVE to mention all the bad stuff by law, but there is no lawful mandate for how small or difficult to find that fine print really is.

[@shaneebahera8566]

+Jordandapup its easier to miss and also harder to read.

[@howardfortyfive9676]

What one REALLY needs is a MAGNIFYING GLASS.

[@preciousj6931]

I love MARKET PLACE, I live in the US and I have learned alot from a Canadian channel than many US SHOWS...SMH

[@vansykhounnoraj9854]

Market place

[@HowardBaileyMusic]

Poor Future Shop...they are no longer...well except for half of them that will re-open with a Best Buy sign above their front door. As far as "Purchase Protection" fees are concerned they exist at Best Buy too. Make sure you know what it is you're getting for the extra cash. Don't ignore them though. It's especially important to look into the extra protection when you're buying certain products and specific brand names. Some companies do not have very good warranty packages or customer service. For instance, if you buy an ASUS product and something goes wrong with it you will be responsible for the cost of shipping the item to the nearest repair outlet which just might be on the opposite side of the country from where you live. If they decide the problem is a result of your mishandling you will be responsible for the parts and labor and the return freight as well. All combined the endeavor can be so expensive you'd be better off buying an entirely new replacement item yourself. In this instance you would be better off to have purchased the extended warranty through the store (if in fact there is no fine print relinquishing responsibility should you be at fault for the damage). Also...read online reviews regarding the product you're looking to purchase. Some are cheaply made and are extremely easy to break. The companies who build them can easily say that you are at fault for nearly any damage because you forcefully mishandled it. You can easily find yourself with a void warranty and no matter what is wrong with it after that point you will be out of luck. Summary: do not buy tech toys on a whim. Do your research, find the best product and best warranty and you likely will not need an in-store extended plan.

[@fredsack6797]

[@pete3050]

if ran a company like the way our gov't runs this country you wouldn't be in business very long

[@s0hail1]

*CBC NEWS IS BEST FOR GIVING US TRUE INFORMATION*

[@Shermanbay]

Your show is very interesting. A tax similar to the TIF was implemented in Door County, Wisconsin, a few years ago. It is 5.5% of all short-term lodging (under 30 days stay) and is mandatory, just like sales tax. The way it was sold to the municipal governments (who had to approve it) was to portion about 40% to the towns for ANY general fund use, with 60% going to a tourist agency for advertising and promotions. This makes it an ideal tax; the voters who created it and benefit from it (locals) are not the people who pay it (non-voters, tourists). As far as taxes go, this is perfection!

[@JoseMendoza-qd5po]

the former mayor is feisty😂😂😂

[@earthling1984]

We have super high taxes where I live in the USA... But this... Really?

[@TacoEqualsFtw]

+flunk77 Just because a nation's national debt increases does not mean it's not highly taxed. USA's debt problem is a spending problem, not a revenue problem. Revenues have remained consistent over decades.

[@Ranillon]

+Shoahshana Goldberg-Shekelstein Yes, it technically doesn't automatically mean that, but in fact in the case of the US it DOES mean that. Compared to other first world countries taxes in the US are among the lowest. Of course, people in other countries also get a lot more for their taxes so it's a fair trade-off. Point is that this lie about the US being overtaxed is just a tactic of business and conservative/libertarian ideologues to give them leverage to keep the US government giving them giant deals which they want the average citizen to pay for.

[@flipphoneproductions8404]

+flunk77 it depends on where you live

[@goku546686]

+flunk77 also that national dept is actually just mo ey being stored for a nuclear war.. if they didn't save for that... well we'd be a thriving economy...

[@goku546686]

+goku546686 USA is the biggest liars when it comes to its economic stability... but I'm gunna get shot for saying this.... but ppl need to know America is evil and lies and keeps taxpayer money in their pockets.. goodbye guys fight America no this abomination of a government.. the old America is dead... UK Ireland allies of America, the government is not a democracy, it's turning against us... we the people suffer, help us. our government is too broken I've seen its lies. the US government... needs to be replaced.

[@rdtaylor8585]

CBC Keep up the awesome work that you guys do, we need this very much for all Canadians

[@hexcrown2416]

I regularly get extended service plans, not necessarily from all places but ones that promise over the counter replacement of the product with a new unit, or with in store credit equal to the cost of the device when purchasing it. Those ones are quite worth it because within the 2 or 3 years there is a chance something happens and when it does you essentially can get an upgrade over the counter for just the cost of the warranty. I've upgraded quite a few devices over time with this type of plan and I will keep supporting that kind.

[@luisalfonsoalba9730]

As bad as Mexico is, you do get senior discount at 60 automatically without requesting.

[@LSSYLondon]

TIF - tourism infrastructure fee DPF- Destination productivity fee DMF- destination marketing fee Do not pay them. It is not a tax. You don't have to pay it.

[@PlanetXtreme]

This is such an awesome news segment. Great info!

[@StarAnnasDream]

All discounts kick in at 65 in USA. Some at 62 That's not just banks....but insurance, utilities,phone, etc On your statement it will show in blue highlights " You are now @ retirement discount rate. Congratulations!"

[@jimmydaboss96]

Ive pushed to have my TIF fee removed at the falls and have been refused many times. ive been told its mandatory.... b$

[@RywokastDarkstar5000]

i would offer to pay the bill without the fee and if they refuse my money thats their problem, they can call the cops and try to explain that they tried to scam me :)

[@jimmydaboss96]

Rywokast honestly it wasn’t worth the time or effort to fight the Marriott. Just paid the $30 something :(. Managers were even involved with no success after 30 min or arguing. Not worth wasting more time or ruining my getaway

[@naremis]

Anyone want to list the three fees ?

[@giancarlorosa4729]

Tourist Fees Warranties Bank Fees

[@Scottsdaleofficesteve]

Optional Tourist Fees that you can have removed from your bill Warranty plans which are typically corporate upsell items and have deceptive legal that doesnt even cover u properly Unnecessary bank fees that you dont have to pay bc u are eligible for it to be removed but rarely do they automatically have it removed

[@macc240038]

I've taken my family to Niagara falls on the Canadian side twice and I won't go back. The restaurants are a rip-off. One even charged me $-15 to park in their parking lot to have the privilege of eating at their establishment. The hawkers promise you the world to come in and eat. I have never seen skimpier portions in my life. And we waited 45 minutes for a small bowl of spegetti .After we left the restaurant I had to take my family to Burger King immediately to eat a second time. The next night we drove out of the immediate tourist area to a so called buffet. It consisted of plastic tables lined up with stainless steel trays of plain iceburg lettuce. A tray of chick peas poured right out of the can , no dressing, nothing. In addition about 4 other trays of plain food that was rediculously unappetizing. We were astonished at what they were passing off as a buffet. So I am not surprised at the latest ripoffs they are attempting to perpetrate on the public. Don't go there.

[@kittyanya]

We have a service plan at our store. Over $250 item has a service repair deal. If they can't fix it, they'll send a check for the exact amount you paid for. Under $250 is an auto replacement check for the exact amount you paid for, no repair time.

[@sonohrina2012]

I’ve always paid no fees to my bank cuz i do my research and get them waved since 18 years old

[@bouchracanada5381]

Adri C can you explain.pleaase how can we not pay bank fees?

[@RywokastDarkstar5000]

@@bouchracanada5381 easy.. open an account that has no fees or go to a credit union that has no fees lol

[@NVAfilm]

I remember being told to lie about the warranty at Bestbuy. My manager wasn't very good person. Bestbuy still is a good company.

[@NickR..]

Best Buy tried to oversell my mom by around $1000 (US, we're in 'Murica) around 3 months ago.

[@NVAfilm]

that's not right. be careful they don't train very well

[@danielforget9311]

I never had any problems with Staple and if you wish an additional warranty, it is at the fraction of crooked Future shop. I know how warranty works, the seller get more money on the warranty than the electronic device, not the case at Staple (unless it has change). At a French Canadian TV station, there is 2 program similar to Market place, and almost every year Future shop is part of there program !!! At the price they charge for warranty, they could give a better service (although the seller probably get 75% commission unless the manager keeps a lot)

[@de_stroyed]

Honestly, if you want actual warranty, NCIX is Canada's largest retailer. They also legit replace parts on your custom PC, or replace the device itself if under warranty. Have nothing but good things to say about them. Not to much about my experience in Future Shop and Best Buy, though.

[@ronsmith4325]

Haha that's hilarious. "BestBuy" and "Good Company" in the same sentence. The same good company that tries to sell $150 HDMI cables to senior citizens who just want to watch television.

[@patsycav]

A man who lived across the street from a bakery had remarked to a neighbor how he enjoyed the wonderful aromas that wafted his way from the bread and cakes, etc. Word got around and one day, he received a bill from the owner of the bakery. It was for the cost of enjoyment provided by the bakery. Life is full of hidden fees. We don't always have to pay them.

[@pessimism056]

My travel to Niagara Falls is also optional - and the fee presentation is enough to make me never travel there again.

[@leemahay6742]

I feel so angry like I have been scammed

[@axelolson9314]

if the establishments just charge an extra 3% and then the establishment "donates" that 3% toward the tourism fund then they could avoid this whole issue. not that I want pay more :)

[@amongstourselves6203]

i found out from a friend that works a best buy that they have 2 warranties but they only show you one. the first one they push on you is a warranty where you have to send it to the manufacturer and the second one is they exchange it in store but they never tell you about that one you have to ask for it, and i have seen lots of people get screwed over. plus they tell you that you get a discount on your warranty then they say it doesn't work and put it towards your item so they upsale you on a warranty

[@eternaldarkness3139]

One of the worst mistakes I've made in my life... Climbing Clifton Hill in a standard transmission car. It's steep, and stop & go traffic. Parked at the top, and could barely walk. 25 years later, I still vividly remember what it was like. On the brightside, parking (or anything else) didn't cost an extra 3% for no apparent reason.

[@jamesdempster1187]

I never get a Service plan with anything I buy. Just something about them I never trusted

[@mam362]

they wouldnt sell it if it didnt make more sense for them than it did for the customers

[@RywokastDarkstar5000]

everything is a scam... how could they offer something if it wouldnt be beneficial to them? they are a business, theyre only purpose is to make money lol

[@mam362]

take home message: read the fine print

[@jansa940]

in many areas of Latin America, it is a very common practice (and mandatory fee), it is called the Gringo Gouge. Tourists pay one fee (higher amount), residents payer a lower fee, even for places like museums. Many restaurants don't list the price, they will just try to charge whatever they can get out of you.

[@owenoulton9312]

Calling it a tax is more than misleading - it's a lie and should be prosecuted as fraud.

[@excess_wrx]

Restaurant tips are fees you don't have to pay. Optional.

[@highstreetkillers4377]

You should though. Waiters make less than minimum wage and pay income tax on tips even if they get none

[@shadows_assassin3131]

HighStreet Killers Tips are the reason WHY waiters/ waitresses get paid less. It allows companies to top the wages up and let them pay less.

[@FawziBreidi]

Tips are their salaries. We call them Tips. No tips are not optional until you the day come and waitresses get paid decently.

[@reginarubinsztajn202]

G-WR [e-mail]

[@rockroyaltymc]

tips are not mandatory... if you're not getting paid well, stop working at the resturants... if enough people do that restaurants will be forced to pay decent wages

[@vsetkoumiera7683]

OMG !! The tourists commissioner/Ex mayor guy was a Snake !!! That "tax" feathers his pockets no doubt, maybe should buy himself a better hair piece!!

[@largebiff1743]

1. I took a virtual tour of Niagara Falls and didn't pay a fee. 2. NEVER buy extended warranties. If the warranty isn't good enough then shop elsewhere. 3. Keep a minimum balance, don't pay extra for gold cards and you don't have to wait until you are 60 or 65.

[@jrivera007]

Excellent tips! I love Marketplace 👍😎

[@9augustine]

What about ATM fees that charge $3 to get YOUR money if it's not your branch. What a rip off! An automated rip off!

[@mr.meeseeks1352]

+9augustine they gotta keep the ATMs and their servers online though. I think it should be much less. Here in Finland some banks don't have it and some banks have like 20 cents per use.

[@MommyKiller1]

No one that runs an atm wants freeloaders from other banks, if it was free and I had a bank I would make TD or RBC do all the work for me

[@VaultTec30000]

+9augustine no its not...ATM fees are kinda a different case...you are using another bank's service, charging you is pretty reasonable.

[@bbushong67]

+flunk77 Or the customer could (gasp) just go to a bank and withdraw their money during business hours. It's a convenience thing, and it costs money, especially outside of their own network.

[@isodorengankam4967]

+ungratefulmetalpansy the network cost fees to create, employees need to be paid. If you want to withdraw money from an atm for free go to your bank. Most third party ATMs are independent companies by the way. They tell you what it costs, if you don't want to use the service there are ways around it. They are a business and are charging for their service

[@bonzie321]

I have a 6% off tourist coupon I made on my printer. 😅😅😂

[@10Mandeep01]

Wow. you guys are doing a FANTASTIC Work. Many thanks.

[@katwoo8876]

Thx marketplace about the tourist fees at Niagara Falls! Helps a family here! 😃

[@07chilj]

thats shady as all get out

[@boomblab23]

he looks like doctor oz

[@maureenb7399]

Terrific information!

[@MaybeRelatable]

Market place should expand the program worldwide. Why limit such a great informative program only in Canada.

[@jadepaulsen1674]

how the hell is ripping off tourists charging them more TOURISM IMPROVEMENT?

[@yiweizhu9327]

i've been scammed by this fee before...

[@RB-fx4xo]

Thank you marketplace I wish I have known this before spending my money those unassasery bills!!

[@TheChadOlson]

As far as the warranties go, I think they definitely can vary depending on who is offering them. One point they fail to make is that after 2 weeks to a month, if you have an issue with your device and have no extended warranty, you need to typically deal with the manufacturer directly, which can mean out of the way service centres, or having to ship products in for repair yourself, sometimes at a cost to you at least one way.

[@johnrogers2826]

The former mayor guy is perfect for that city. Sleazy, creepy and lowbrow.

[@MirekHeikkila]

Sounds sketchy AF since it's not MANDATORY.... geez.. Tourists don't pay it and spent $ on something else! :)

[@askewniverse2411]

I love marketplace I hope they keep doing these videos

[@jamaicasky]

i am going to be definitely watching all my bills a little closer..... and disputing any extra sneaky fees

[@ajetz2883]

fees you don't have to pay: tips in U.S restaurants.

[@ajetz2883]

yeah i do get a lot of crap for it from my friends. But i usually tip while in big parties because the waiters actually do some work. The problem is the U.S tipping culture has ruined the work ethic of waiters. Most (not all) waiters nowadays don't put in any effort into customer service and provide mediocre service just because tips are guaranteed. The consumers are getting ripped off in this case. Instead of paying for your $30 bill + 6 (20%): $36, you could pay $32 if the restaurants simply increase the price of food and pay their employees themselves.

[@mrnoodle10000]

liar liar pants on fire

[@de_stroyed]

Hi there, 9 year old.

[@mrnoodle10000]

:))))))))))) YUP

[@martalepecka5708]

Great, get off life

[@mrnoodle10000]

:)))))))))))) YUP

[@roxcyn]

John Koslowsky - "You are about to enter the court room of Judge Judy..." 😂

[@arizonabarb51]

Good to know the other tips, thank you.

[@ClaireWill71uk]

Won’t be going, until these fees are removed. As international traveller, it’s a beastly practice.

[@computer5272]

There's literally nothing wrong with that extended warranty at all. You signed the document, you didn't read it, it's your fault, you had the information and you signed off on it.

[@computer5272]

ClaymoreGreen How about, *read the document you are signing.*

[@computer5272]

ClaymoreGreen What's deceptive about a document that you signed which has the exact terms laid out in plain English?

[@ale347baker]

+Computer The document is super long and the wording is not often plain Engilsh. Get it?

[@matthewa2894]

+Computer most people don't read long complicated terms of service agreements, and businesses know that. and they often aren't particularly easy to understand either.

[@computer5272]

Matthew A So again I ask; why you would sign something you don't understand? It's your problem if you signed it without knowing what it contained.

[@FoodOnCrack]

"Hey Canada" Ok i guess i will leave now because i am not in/from canada...

[@rae0521]

I haven't been to Niagara Falls for 50 years or more. I'm absolutely APPALLED by what I see on the video. They've turned it from a place of beauty and wonder to "Cash Grab Coney Island Carnival" Canada style. You won't find me there ever again. It's nothing but a tourist trap. And the Falls, while impressive, are most certainly not the most spectacular on the planet. Just a lot of water falling and making mist. Big whooop!

[@teacupsweetpea9077]

Went to Visions and purchased a TV with a 5 Yr. warranty. At the end of the term, if your Visions Full Coverage Extended Service Plan was not required for repairs, the premium paid can be applied to your next purchase up to a maximum of 50% of the new purchase price

[@PhrontDoor]

I would feel like a complete douchenozzle standing before a camera (or any sentient audience) and pseudo-rationalizing the fee as 'this is a destination, look at the...' Yes, Niagra is a touristy spot. The tourists ALREADY spent extra MONEY going to a clearly 'middle-of-F!n-nowhere' place. The reason Niagra is somewhere they go, is because of the location -- so charging 'extra' for it is like adding an EXTRA fee to peanut butter so they can recoup the fee of the peanuts. Part of any sensible business plan is to charge a price for the goods/services which allows a profit after you've factored in the location, and expenses... If they need that 3ish%, over that price, then they are clearly utterly incompetent.. OR -- more likely, it's a scam!

[@Grimenoughtomaketherobotcry]

You fail to take into account the "organized crime factor". They've had their hands in everything since the casino was built.

[@MemoriesDestroyUs]

i just turned 19 and i got a letter in the mail saying that i no long can use the youth account at TD which was free and that they will be starting to charge me bank fees a month after my birthday automatically..

[@Redsoxking]

Go in and chat with someone

[@johnjeffrey3127]

+MemoriesDestroyUs Yeah...I am sure you signed something (or your parents did) that outlined when the account would need to be transferred to one that isn't offered to "youth"...It may suck..but in your case I think they are being fair since the account is not for adults over the age of 19... Look on the bright side..you can now purchase alcohol legally..so have a beer and welcome to adulthood! :-)

[@MemoriesDestroyUs]

+John Jeffrey lol true but i live in manitoba so i could legally buy beer a year ago when i turned 18 ;)

[@johnjeffrey3127]

MemoriesDestroyUs Ahh..sorry bud..I didn't factor that in, my bad...

[@isodorengankam4967]

You can get a student account for free if you are going to post secondary studies

[@globe255]

7:50 It's a fee that any tourist has to pay. Has to pay? That's mandatory? It's a fee yes. Here you should follow up and say: But I can choose not to pay the fee right?

[@evagervais3895]

i found out about this when we went to Niagara after a meal, my husband talk to them and they took off the fee. the hotel we stayed at charged us the tourism tax as well.