The question remains how is the Coronavirus going to effect your travel plans and what can you do about it in the coming days and months ahead. Please know our clients and their safety is always our number one priority and it is always our goal to share with you facts about travel industry warnings and safety issues. We are taking this very seriously and want to advocate for you to get the best possible option for you and your family.
First, know the facts and where to go to get the the most up-to-date information about the Coronavirus and travel warnings. The CDC is the first stop in finding out the most accurate information in this constantly changing environment. You can visit the CDC’s website here for information on what the Coronovirus is, how it spreads, what countries have confirmed cases, travel warnings and frequently asked questions. As of today, the CDC has three levels of travel warnings: Level 1 being low threat, Level 3 being a high threat. Those countries that are Level 3 currently are China, Iran, Italy and South Korea the CDC’s recommendation is to avoid unnecessary travel to these countries at this time. Japan as at a Level 2 warning recommending enhanced precautions when traveling to Japan. A Level 1 warning is now in affect for Hong Kong recommending to practice normal precautions in that area. There are currently no other countries listed with warnings and are not recommending cancelling or postponing travel plans to any other regions. Another resource for you is the World Health Organization website to have a second place for fact-finding and updates with accurate information. We also always point our clients to the State Department’s website for current information on all travel advisories issued for American citizens. It is imperative to arm yourself with the facts so you can make the most informed decisions regarding your families safety when traveling.
What are supplier’s doing to help during this health crisis? Across the board, we are seeing supplier after supplier step up and make accommodations for travelers during this time. Cruise lines and airlines are taking increased precautions such as health screenings before boarding, more detailed and consistent deep cleaning, you can expect buffets to no longer be self-service to limit contact. Some suppliers are also making concessions for travelers by waving change fees and allowing you to change dates of travel without penalty. They understand this is an uncertain time with an ever changing climate and are willing to work with you in most cases.
I have travel insurance, is this going to protect me? Travel insurance will help you if you were to become sick during travel. However, unless you purchased a Cancel For Any Reason waiver on your policy at the time of booking insurance companies are not covering trip cancellations due to fear of a threat caused by the Coronavirus or travel bans. We are recommending to each of our clients booking future travel to purchase a Cancel For Any Reason waiver in addition to their base travel insurance policy.
How can we help you navigate this season? Please be assured as your travel advisors we are always in your corner and looking out for what is best for you and your family. We are here to lead you to the most accurate and up-to-date travel advisories, help you change your travel plans if necessary and help you find answers to your travel related questions. As for now, we are taking normal precautions, using good sense and still traveling to non-effected countries without trepidation. We are looking forward to an amazing high travel season! Now, don’t go licking any door handles!
