Archive for June, 2009

Tips for General Travel Safety

Traveling can provide some of the greatest experiences of your
life; however it can also be pretty scary if general travel
safety is not followed. Before traveling everyone involved in
the trip should review safety suggestions and mentally prepare
themselves for different situations as well as prepare for
emergencies that might crop up. The following tips will help you
prepare yourself before you begin traveling and save time in
case an emergency occurs.

Safety Tip #1 Photos Always pack recent photos of everyone on
the trip in case of kidnapping or disappearance. This way you
can easily provide local authorities with an immediate photo
rather than waiting for some to arrive from home, which could
waste precious time.

Safety Tip #2 Clothing Always make a mental note what everyone
on the trip is wearing each day. This is needed information in
the event of a disappearance or kidnapping. Also, bright clothes
should be avoided as well as expensive jewelry because these
simply draw attention to you and increase your risk for attack,
kidnapping, or theft. Blending in with the crowd is more
desirable when traveling than sticking out.

Safety Tip #3 Allergies Remember to make note of any allergies
individuals on the vacation might have. When traveling people
easily encounter many foods they are not accustomed to and might
easily have an allergic reaction. Different supplies should also
be on hand like Benadryl or Epipens if necessary. Also,
insurance cards should be carried on vacation and kept in a
secure place in case medical attention is needed.

Safety Tip #5 Travel Itinerary Regardless of whether you are
traveling by plane, train or automobile you should provide a
relative or friend with a travel itinerary including hotels and
general plans for each day. This may seem like a hassle, however
if you are lost or missing it is important for family members to
have an idea of where to start looking for you.

Safety Tip #6 Credit Cards Make sure you have all the
information in your wallet noted on another sheet of paper,
perhaps saved as an email in your inbox that is easily
accessible. This should include names of all credit and bank
cards with their phone numbers as well as any other cards or
personal information you might need to cancel in the event your
wallet is lost or stolen.

Remember, there are plenty of other safety guidelines like
buckling up, washing your hands, and looking both ways before
crossing the street that should always be followed when
traveling as well as the above mentioned safety tips. The best
way to make your vacation successful is to be as prepared as
possible in case something goes wrong. Safety should always be
the number one priority when traveling

Patrick Warner
http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/tips-for-general-travel-safety-2757.html

Travel Insurance Review...

Cheap Travel Insurance

Cheap Travel Insurance:

Who doesn’t want to travel to make the spare time a bit relaxing and rousing? But there are few things which one should bring into notice before stepping out for the journey. Usually holidaying is an opportunity when a person sets to enjoy all dash fun with the family members and the other dear ones. But have you ever imagined about various unforeseen hazards that could play as a spoilsport into your dream holiday. In that situation the extra expenses could make your budget lists to go much higher than the actual ratings.

Hence, it is very much essential for you to have some sort of covering while moving out for the special trip. Cheap Travel Insurance not only offers to you the sense of safety during travelling but also saves heap of money on your trips. Available under various products like single travel insurance, Gap Year Travel Insurance and others, you can choose any availability as per your requirement.

There are many people who adjourn the idea of getting travel insurance because they think it will be a bit tiring process. But this is only a false belief with many people who are not well aware about the ready to use online method where you can shop for the best suited insurance cover for yourself. Cheap travel insurance offers cover for all medical expenses, flight delays/cancellation, loss of important belongings, emergency evacuation, etc and thus makes the journey more comfortable and safe all along.

Various quotes of cheap travel insurance are available in the market and online on the internet. To the best of your convenience what you can do is simply to make a comparative study of all the quotes. As on internet you can get the most efficient tool, which will help you in making the correct decision in selecting the best policy of cheap travel insurance?

To find the best cheap travel insurance cover, visit insurancebookers.co.uk and avail maximum benefits on your policy.

William Catherine
http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/cheap-travel-insurance-104677.html

Guide to Purchasing Travel Insurance for Visitors to Canada

With the strong economy, welcoming culture, great natural beauty and high quality of life, Canada is a popular destination for foreign visitors. Canada in not only a popular vacation destination it has the strongest economy in the G8. The strong Canadian economy means that Canada is a hot spot for business travelers, foreign workers, new immigrants, and international students.

Also, Canada has an aging population which means that the health care system is overburdened. Canada’s health expenses rival the United States as the most expensive in the world.

Also, Canada has an aging population which means that the health care system is overburdened. Canada’s health expenses rival the United States as the most expensive in the world.

Sample medical costs in Canada.

Simple doctor visits cost approximately $150

Ambulance approximately $250

Non-critical hospital stay cost around $3,500 per night

Air ambulance around $20,000

etc.

Medical expenses can become financially crippling. To ensure personal safety, Medical Insurance is highly recommended for all foreign visitors to Canada.

The good news is that medical insurance is quite affordable. For example, good individual coverage can be purchased for a 40 year old for $3-$5 per day, and an entire family can be covered for under $15 per day.

Canadian insurance companies have developed medical insurance plans for all types of visitors to Canada. weather you are a business traveler, international student, new immigrant, foreign worker, or simply vacationing in Canada, a plan designed to suit your needs is available at an affordable rate.

Business Travelers and Tourists Visiting Canada

Whether you are traveling to Canada for business meetings or vacationing with your family, medical insurance is important to cover the high costs of medical care. Visitor to Canada Emergency medical is available to pay the expenses incurred by sudden and unexpected medical conditions. Coverage is available up to 89 years of age. No medical questions are required but pre-existing medical conditions will likely be excluded from coverage. If you have a pre-existing medical condition please review the medical policy wording closely before purchasing.

Visitors to Canada Emergency Medical Insurance can be purchased at levels of $25,000, $50,000, $100,000, and $150,000. Coverage can be purchased for individuals, couples, or families. Single trip and annual plans are available. If you plan to travel to Canada frequently within a 12 month period then an annual plan will be most suitable.

New Immigrants to Canada

New immigrants to Canada are not eligible for provincial health insurance until they gain landed immigrant or permanent residence status.

Foreign workers in Canada

The Canadian labor shortage has provided ample opportunities for foreign workers to enter Canada on a work visa. Unfortunately, these work visas are normally issued for 6 months minus one day… this is one day before the foreign workers become eligible for Provincial health insurance coverage. This means that private health insurance must be purchased to cover emergency medical costs for the time spent living in Canada on a temporary work visa.

Inpatriate Medical Insurance

Employers can provide medical insurance to foreign workers by purchasing Inpatriate Medical Insurance. Inpatriate Medical Insurance can be purchased for the six month work visa. Inpatriate insurance can be purchased for durations as short as one month for workers who have already arrived in Canada. Coverage can be purchased at levels of $100,000, $500,000, or $1,000,000. Single, Couple, or family coverage is also available. Inpatriate medical Insurance coverage differs from Visitors Emergency Medical Insurance as it provides for non-emergency medical visits.

Visitors to Canada Emergency Medical Insurance

Foreign workers who are not provided coverage by their employers will be required to purchase private medical insurance. Visitors to Canada Emergency Medical Insurance is available for personal coverage for your entire work visa term in Canada. Coverage can be purchased at levels of $25,000, $50,000, $100,000, and $150,000, with the high cost of health care in Canada it is recommended that foreign worker purchase the best coverage amount. Single, Couple, or family coverage is also available.

International Students in Canada

Canada is a world leader in education. Many international student choose Canada for their foreign education destination. Not all international students are eligible for government sponsored health insurance…. and for those who are eligible may have to wait three months before the coverage becomes effective. Also, international students not attending eligible educational institutions will not be covered by the provincial government health insurance plan. Private medical insurance will be required. International students can choose to purchase complete Health and Hospital Insurance or only Emergency Medical Insurance

Health and Hospital Insurance

Provides International Students visiting Canada with complete health coverage. In addition to emergency medical coverage, non-emergency health costs and prescription drugs are also covered up to maximum amounts. Medical coverage of to $1,000,000 is available. Coverage can also be purchased for the students spouse and family while they are residing in Canada.

Emergency Medical Insurance

Similar in coverage as the health and hospital plan but does not cover non-emergency medical and prescription drugs are limited to a 30 day supply. Coverage can also be purchased for the students spouse and family while they are residing in Canada.

Make sure that you are safe and enjoy ‘peace of mind’ during you stay in Canada by purchasing medical insurance.

Ronald Chan
http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-tips-articles/guide-to-purchasing-travel-insurance-for-visitors-to-canada-205964.html

Travel Insurance for Special Needs Travellers

If you have special needs you must ensure that your special circumstances are covered by the policy you choose.

Pre-existing medical conditions
Most insurers do not automatically cover pre-existing medical illnesses or medical conditions. However traveler’s can apply for coverage for their pre-existing illness via an application, which is, then subject to approval and possible payment of a premium. Keep in mind there are illnesses and conditions that will not be covered under any circumstances. Some insurers offer automatic coverage for common illnesses/conditions such as tinnitus, asthma or stable high blood pressure but the onus is on the traveler to check because conditions can apply. For example if you are on a hospital waiting list for treatment for your illness or condition you may not be covered. Sometimes insurers will offer you a policy that excludes claims caused by your condition or they may not offer a policy because of the destination of your travels.

What is a pre-existing medical condition?
In general they are usually defined as any chronic or ongoing medical or dental condition for which you have received treatment or advice within a specified time prior to the policy being issued or any chronic or ongoing medical condition, illness or disease that’s been medically documented prior to departure.

If the insurer does agree to cover you it is recommended you get it in writing. There may be an additional premium. Also check the excess in relation to a claim relating to the pre-existing condition. If you cannot get travel insurance for your condition it is still important to get travel insurance for other claims.

Pregnant Women
Most policies will cover pregnant women on application but you might be charged an additional premium for prior complications.

The cut-off point for coverage during pregnancy varies from 26 weeks to ‘no time limit’, with 26 weeks being the norm. Many policies cover unforeseen complications of the pregnancy during that time period, but they don’t all cover the medical costs of a premature baby.

Some charge an additional premium. Policies do not cover full-term birth. A few policies don’t cover you if you buy a policy and depart on your journey without knowing you are pregnant.

Older Travelers
Most of the policies offered have special conditions for older travelers. Some will require the payment of an extra premium while others will not offer cover after a specific age such as 75.

Most will require a medical assessment; some will charge a higher premium or extra fee. Others have no fee but have an extra excess for medical claims.

Adrenalin Seekers & Adventure Travelers
It is very important to check what activities you are covered for and more importantly what activities you are not covered for. Most amateur sports are covered however there are many exclusions. Exclusions can include mountaineering using ropes, base jumping, running with the bulls, snowboarding and professional sports. All product disclosure statements will outline the specific ‘adventures’ which are covered. Be aware that an extra premium may apply and read the conditions.

Single Parents traveling with children
If you are a single parent or adult traveling alone with several children most policies will cover the children for the single premium. However, some only allow cover for two dependent children travelling with one parent. It is important to check the age limits for children traveling with one parent.

Duo policies
These are policies that enable two people to travel together under the same policy. Make sure you check the restrictions because some may only allow you to travel with a spouse or family member others may require you to have the exact itinerary whereas others may allow you to spend 50% of time together.

Working while overseas
Working and traveling is a cost effective way of financing your trip. However some policies don’t cover you for manual labor or an accident that has happened while working. Policies that do provide cover usually don’t charge an additional premium but a few do.

As always make sure you check and double-check what you are buying. It is very important to understand the conditions and restrictions found in the product disclosure statement before you travel. It is essential for you to check all the small print on your policy before you make a decision. Read many policies carefully before making a decision and make sure you understand exactly what you are covered for and more importantly what you are not covered for.

Australia Travel Insurance wishes you a wonderful and safe journey.

Dtm
http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/travel-insurance-for-special-needs-travellers-54788.html

7 Good Reasons For Travel Insurance

For thousands of years, risks have been shared during times of tragedy. The first formal insurance company, Lloyd’s of London, was formed in 1769 and their principal concept remains today – to gather the premiums of clients as a pool of resources to return to clients who experience unexpected but covered events. So, that is the secret really, plan for the unexpected and make sure you’re covered, especially when you’re travelling. Whether your trip is a quick one or a round the world cruise, there are many good reasons for travel insurance. Here are just 7:

Medical Emergencies: If you fall sick or are injured during your travel, your travel insurance will give you financial coverage.

Flight Cancellations: If your flight is cancelled or delayed then your travel insurance should help. Depending on the cover available, a room for the night and even alternative travel home can be included.

Pre-existing Medical Conditions: Even if you have a pre-existing medical condition and it flares up while you’re on vacation, as long as you’ve advised your travel insurance company prior, you should be covered.

Damage or Loss Of Personal property – What are you going to do when your luggage gets stolen? Yes, it happens, all the time. There are organised gangs that work in airports doing just that. Guess what? You need travel insurance.

Loss of Cash or Traveller’s Cheques – You’re in a foreign country far from home. You either lose, or have stolen, your entire holiday fund. You’re going to need help and quick. Again, travel insurance is a must.

Emergency Evacuations – What with global warming and economic pressure more and more holiday destinations are being built in potentially dangerous territory. Who would have wanted to be in Thailand on that Boxing Day? Travel insurance will help if you have to get out quick.

Car Crash – It can be very difficult driving on the wrong side of the road in a strange country. Accidents happen.

Okay, there you have it. 7 good and solid reasons why you need travel insurance the next trip you make. The other alternative of course is to not take out travel insurance, or to stay at home. Now, there’s an idea. But seriously, as always when taking out insurance, especially Travel Insurance, read the fine print. Importantly, find out before you go what is excluded, not just included. So, always read the fine print. For example, accidental coverage is not provided in case of drunken driving, driving under the influence of narcotic substances etc. Exclusions are also provided for accidents during risky sports like bungee jumping, car racing, scuba diving, white water rafting, flying (except as passenger in regular airliners), gliding, skiing, bike racing, diving, mountaineering, windsurfing etc. The list goes on (insert for your favourite potentially dangerous sport here). That means in case of accidents in these situations the insurance company is not liable to pay any amount to the insured.

Allen Jesson
http://www.articlesbase.com/non-fiction-articles/7-good-reasons-for-travel-insurance-121230.html