|
|
|
|
On March 11, 2011, a strong earthquake measuring 9.0 on the Richter scale struck off the northeast coast of Japan and subsequent tsunamis came ashore along the Pacific coast of Japan’s islands. There are ongoing aftershocks and a risk of tsunamis.
The Tokyo region experienced significant shaking on March 11. Travellers should be aware that transportation routes, power and telecommunications systems could be affected in some areas. Travel to and from Narita International Airport may be difficult.
Temporary rolling blackouts in Tokyo and neighbouring areas will occur beginning March 14.
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against non-essential travel to the prefectures of Chiba, Miyagi, Ibaraki, Iwate, Aomori and Fukushima
due to damages caused by the March 11 earthquake and subsequent tsunamis. Sendai City, Fukushima City and Aomori City have been hardest hit.
Reports indicate that the earthquake caused extensive damage to infrastructure. Power and telecommunications have been disrupted. Transportation routes, emergency and medical care, as well as water, food, and fuel supplies may also be affected. Canadians travelling to affected areas should contact their airline or tour operator to determine whether the situation will disrupt travel arrangements. They should also exercise caution, monitor local news and weather reports, and follow the advice of local authorities.
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against all travel within 20 kilometres of the Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant.
Following damage to the Fukushima nuclear power station in Okumacho, Canadians are strongly advised to follow the advice issued by the Japanese authorities and respect the 20 kilometre evacuation zone within the vicinity of the Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant.
for updated information check out www.voyage.gc.ca
|
|
Canadian Passport Holders require pre-approved Visas for UAE
Please note that from 2nd January 2011 all Canadian passport holders travelling to the UAE via airports, seaports or land entry points will require a pre-approved visa. Therefore effective 2nd January 2011 the “visa on arrival” facility will be discontinued for Canadian passport holders.
Emirates will undertake the following activities to inform passengers about this new visa regulation:
1. As of today Timatic is updated and will show the new visa requirement for Canadian passport holders travelling to the UAE
2. The following fact item was added to YYZ-DXB and vv. flights effective 2. January 2011 in all GDS's and distribution systems
CHECK TIMATIC FOR UAE VISA REQUIREMENT FOR CANADIAN PPORT HOLDERS
3. The Reservations Services team checked all PNR 's with Point of Sales Canada as well as any route holding API data with nationality entered as Canada. Once those PNR's have been identified the same fact (as mentioned under point 2 above) will be added.
4. If a PNR that contains the information mentioned in point 3 having an e-mail address, an advisory e-mail will be sent to the passenger / agent
With immediate effect, Canadian passport holders can apply for their UAE visa via www.emirates.com or via all the other visa application channels including Arabian Adventures for bookings made under the Dubai Stopover programme or the Commercial Visa Department. Should you require further details on the above information please do not hesitate to contact the Commercial Visa Department on EKVISA-Outstation@emirates.com and the Dubai Stopover Team on aaekres@emirates.com.
|
|
In 2011, seven ships will embark on their maiden voyages for seven different cruise lines. Six will be new-builds, and one is an existing ship that will be extensively refurbished and renamed. That's not counting Royal Caribbean's Allure of the Seas, which made its debut earlier this month, or the Disney Fantasy, which is set to launch in April 2012.
Below are some highlights of each ship launching in the next 16 months, plus Allure of the Seas. Which I couldn’t omit from my list, since we will be having conference on her in 2011!!!
Allure of the Seas, Royal Caribbean --- December 1st, 2010 --- 5,400 passengers Like its sister ship, Oasis of the Seas, the 18-deck, 5-star Allure of the Seas will feature seven themed "neighbourhoods," including the Boardwalk and Central Park. Unique amenities and activities include a sloped-entry pool and two surf simulators; the Aqua Theatre, an amphitheatre at the stern of the ship; an onboard zip line; a full-size carousel; and the first Starbucks at sea. The bi-level Loft Suites come equipped with LCD televisions, upstairs and downstairs bathrooms, separate vanity areas and floor-to-ceiling windows. The ship's Amber Theatre will feature world-class entertainment including Chicago: The Musical; Blue Planet, a show featuring music, dance and aerial acrobatics; and a specially equipped 3-D movie screen.
Marina, Oceania --- January 22, 2011 --- 1,258 passengers About twice the size of the other ships in Oceania's fleet, the 5.5-star Marina will feature six open-seating dining venues and signature spaces such as The Patio, Horizons and the Grand Bar. More than 90% of accommodations boast private balconies and all have large, marble-and-granite bathrooms, LCD flat-screen televisions and exclusive Tranquility beds. New amenities on the Marina include the Bon Appétit Culinary Center, offering cooking lessons with experienced chefs, and the Artist Loft, providing instructional courses in fine arts. The inaugural sailing of this ship is sold out.
Disney Dream, Disney --- January 26, 2011 --- 4,000 passengers The 5-star Disney Dream will be the first new ship for Disney Cruise Line in more than a dozen years. With 14 towering decks, the vessel will build on the style of other Disney ships with an early 20th century design mixed with state-of-the-art technology. One of the technological highlights -- for the first time in the cruise industry, inside cabins will have outside views! Inside staterooms will have porthole-shaped, flat-screen monitors on the wall which will broadcast live views of the sea or port from high-definition cameras mounted outside. Onboard entertainment will include 3-D movies in the Buena Vista Movie Theatre and a cruise-industry first -- the Aqua Duck -- a combination waterslide/rollercoaster. Young cruisers will have the opportunity to interact with Crush from Finding Nemo on cinema-sized plasma screens, and the oversized play area called Andy's Room will allow kids to experience the Toy Story set from a toy's point of view. These features, along with elegant adults-only dining facilities and pools, mean the Disney Dream will offer unforgettable experiences for the entire family.
Carnival Magic, Carnival --- May 1, 2011 --- 3,690 passengers Sister-ship to Carnival Dream, the 4.5-star Carnival Magic will share the distinction of being the largest vessel in Carnival's fleet at 130,000 tons. Featured among the Magic's services and amenities are the Water Works aqua park, the tranquil, kids-free Serenity area and extensive children's and teens' areas with activities for three age groups. Adults will enjoy the huge Cloud 9 spa, as well as the scenic whirlpools extending beyond the ship's beam. Accommodation options include "cove" balcony staterooms located close to the waterline, deluxe oceanview staterooms featuring two bathrooms, and spa staterooms and suites with exclusive amenities and spa privileges.
Adonia, P&O Cruises --- May 22, 2011 --- 710 passengers Formerly Royal Princess, the 3-star Adonia will offer cruisers modern amenities in an intimate, elegant atmosphere. The Crow's Nest lounge offers panoramic views from the front of the ship, and the Curzon Lounge features evening entertainment from cabaret-style song-and-dance shows to classical recitals and concerts, plus an ample dance floor for those who enjoy ballroom dancing. More than 75% of staterooms feature private balconies and all include a TV, radio, hairdryer, mini-refrigerator, safe, tea/coffee making facilities and mineral water on arrival. Adonia is one of only three kids-free ships we represent (the others are P&O's Arcadia and Artemis); passengers must be 18 or older to book.
Seabourn Quest, Seabourn --- June 20, 2011 --- 450 passengers Like her sister-ships Seabourn Odyssey and Seabourn Sojourn, Seabourn Quest will be three times larger than the original ships in Seabourn's fleet, but will carry just over twice as many passengers, ensuring one of the highest space-per-passenger ratios at sea. The 6-star ship will have 225 suites, 90% with full-size balconies. All accommodations boast a roomy, granite bathroom with a separate tub and shower and twin sinks. Public spaces include four dining venues, offering options from casual, grilled food to gourmet tasting menus; six bars and lounges, where complimentary fine wines and spirits flow freely; and the spa, which features a thelassotherapy whirlpool, Finnish saunas, aromatic steam rooms, a gym and an aerobics area. For more ship info,
Costa Favolosa, Costa --- July 7, 2011 --- 3,000 passengers The 4.5-star Costa Favolosa boasts the state-of-the-art Samsara Spa, which houses a wellness center, spa, salon and fitness center. Guests will find a Formula 1 racecar driving simulator, a 4-D cinema, PlayStation gaming stations, pools with retractable roofs and 13 bars and lounges. Kids will enjoy the extensive, age-appropriate activities and a pool/water park area designed just for them.
Celebrity Silhouette, Celebrity --- July 23, 2011 --- 2,850 passengers The fourth ship in Celebrity's Solstice class, the 5.5-star Celebrity Silhouette will feature wireless Internet access, flat-screen televisions in oversized staterooms (85% of which will boast private balconies) and an excellent selection of onboard shops and boutiques. Other amenities and diversions will include the Lawn Club, featuring real grass where guests can relax with a game of croquet or a picnic, as well as several specialty restaurants, including Qsine, featuring out-of-the-ordinary, artfully presented dishes; Tuscan Grille, a steakhouse with Italian flare; and the new Lawn Club Grill, which focuses on the joys of outdoor grilling.
Disney Fantasy, Disney Cruise Line --- April 7, 2012 --- 4,000 passengers Sister-ship to Disney Dream, the 5-star Disney Fantasy is 40% larger than the line's current ships (Disney Magic and Disney Wonder) and in typical Disney style, offers fun for the whole family. Kids will love meeting some of their favorite Disney characters onboard while participating in age-appropriate, supervised activities in the Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab. 'Tweens and teens can chill out in spaces designed just for them. When you're ready for some adult time, parents and grandparents can retreat to one of the kids-free areas of the ship such as the Cove Café, featuring coffee, cocktails and Internet access; the Quiet Cove pool; Palo or Remy, specialty restaurants featuring Italian and French cuisine, respectively; or Meridian, a bar with indoor/outdoor seating that sits between Palo and Remy.
|
|
Mexican Peso
Reports have come out this week that Canadian and US cash will no longer be accepted in Mexico (credit cards and travellers cheques will still be welcomed).
Travellers will want to exchange funds to Mexican Pesos for travel to Mexico as that is now reportedly the only accepted currency. Some reports state that US cash transactions will still be allowed to a maximum of $100 per purchase.
We will continue to follow these reports to verify if any cash other then the Mexican Peso will be accepted and continue to update you.
|
|
GRUPO Mexicana has announced that as a result of the group’s “delicate” financial situation when it changed owners a week ago, compounded by a failure to reach agreements that would allow for the capitalisation of its three airlines, Mexicana Airlines, MexicanaClick and MexicanaLink flights will suspend operations until further notice.
|
|
Transportation Now Restored Between Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit One of TWO BRIDGES Linking Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit COLLAPSED YESTERDAY DUE TO TORRENTIAL RAINFALL Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico, September 1, 2010 –
Marc Murphy, Director of the Riviera Nayarit Convention and Visitors Bureau is pleased to advise that vehicular transportation has been restored between Puerto Vallarta, the International Airport and Riviera Nayarit; Traffic is again flowing in both directions..
Yesterday at 2:30am, one of two north/south bridges just north of the airport was washed out by torrential downpours.
Authorities from the Federal Government as well as the states of Jalisco and Nayarit checked the structure of the remaining bridge and pronounced it sound, again permitting the flow of vehicular traffic between the two tourism regions by 2:00pm yesterday afternoon. The two bridges were parallel, each providing two lanes in one direction. Now traffic in both directions will travel over the one bridge until a second is built, and the bridge will be carefully monitored to assure safety at all times.
“We thank all of the parties who joined together to assure that our visitors did not encounter any travel interruptions and minimal inconvenience. “ said Marc Murphy. “We are happy to report that this situation was addressed and resolved so quickly, making it easy for travelers to visit the beautiful resorts of Riviera Nayarit.”
|
|
Canadians now require passports for Bermuda.
Canadian citizens visiting Bermuda are now required to present a valid passport upon entering the country.
Until now Canadians were the only nationals allowed to enter Bermuda using a long-form birth certificate with valid photo identification as proof of their citizenship in lieu of a valid passport.
This new requirement is effective as of May 1.
|
|
Starting May 1, 2010...
Air Canada will only accept major credit cards for all on-board purchases (Onboard Cafe Bar and Duty Free Boutique).
This will be in effect for every Air Canada Flight (excluding Jazz).
|
|
The volcano shutting European airports is bad news for travellers and airlines.
Weather experts predicted Friday that a volcanic ash causing chaos to air traffic across Europe would affect the region well into the weekend and possibly beyond as the dust cloud continued to spread.
Scientists said it was too soon to predict when the Eyjafjallajökull volcano in Iceland would cease spewing ash, raising the prospect of thousands more grounded flights in coming days.
Prevailing westerly winds are expected to fan the massive plume of dust from an erupting volcano in Iceland further east and north, according to predictions from the London Ash Advisory Center.
By 07:00 GMT Saturday (7 p.m. ET) the cloud traveling at up to 9,000 meters (30,000 feet) is forecast to be covering parts of Russia, Poland, Finland and other East European countries while continuing to affect the UK, Sweden, Norway, Germany, Denmark and Netherlands.
Northern parts of Sweden, the UK, and Ireland, which have begun to reinstate air flights, would remain in the clear for the time being, according to forecasts.
CNN meteorologist Brandon Miller said upper-level winds will remain largely from the same direction, from the North and West, over the next 40 hours, bringing ash from the volcano into northern Europe.
|
|
Gap Adventures to resume tour operations on Peru's Inca Trail after April 1 |
|
|
|
Gap Adventures is pleased to announce the resumption of tours to Peru's majestic Inca Trail following April 1, 2010. The trail, which leads to the mountain-top citadel of Machu Picchu, was closed following a series of recent mudslides which rendered the tourist hotspot nearly inaccessible.
"The Inca Trail has long been one of our most popular destinations and I'm thrilled that we can continue providing life-changing visits to one of the world's true wonders," said Gap Adventures founder Bruce Poon Tip. "We're delighted that our trips will help rebuild the local economy and bring a bit of happiness back into the lives of locals after such a difficult period."
Local authorities have stated that both the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu will reopen April 1, 2010. Gap Adventures intends to make every effort possible to operate scheduled itineraries to the region in the immediate period following that reopening date. However, due to limited train service provided by Peru Rail between Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes, there may be slight modifications to itineraries to ensure the safe and efficient transport of passengers to and from the area.
Some of Gap Adventures' most popular Peru itineraries include the comprehensive eight-day Inca Discovery tour (http://www.gapadventures.com/tour/PID/ ) which visits destinations such as Cuzco, the Sacred Valley, the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu, not to mention the 21-day Absolute Peru tour (http://www.gapadventures.com/tour/PHPT/). This far-ranging adventure touches on Peru's high-altitude highlights including the Inca Trail, as well as unforgettable destinations like the Colca Canyon, Arequipa and the Amazon rainforest.
About Gap Adventures
Gap Adventures is a world leader in the adventure travel industry offering small group adventures on all seven continents and beyond to more than 100,000 global travellers annually. The award-winning trips, which focus on culture, nature and active travel, are ideal for those with a sense of adventure - people who want to leave the beaten path and authentically immerse themselves in a local culture or environment to experience the real world in a sustainable manner. Demonstrating its ongoing cultural, social and economic commitment to responsible tourism, Gap Adventures established the Planeterra Foundation, as a way the company and its passengers can give back to the communities visited.
|
|
|
All visitors to Cuba must have medical insurance to enter the country from May 1.
This travel insurance must cover medical expenses with coverage in Cuba. The insurance policy should be purchased in the traveler’s home country but tourists arriving without proper coverage will be required to purchase an appropriate policy from a Cuban insurance company at the airport, port or marina where they arrive.
Travel assistance services in Cuba are provided by Asistur S.A, available 24 hours all year round. All travelers shall present an insurance policy, certificate or traveling assistance card valid for the time they will stay in Cuba.
Here is the list of approved Canadian insurance providers as of April 2:
ACM
ASSURED ASSISTANCE (e.g. RBC)
CANASSISTANCE
DESJARDINS (SIGMA-ASSISTEL)
FOX FLIGHT
GLOBAL EXCEL
HEALTH INSURANCE DIVISION
ICMS-WORLDWIDE EMERGENCY ASSIST (TORONTO) JOHN INGLE INSURANCE
KEEWATIN AIR
MAGNUS POIRIER
MEDICAL SERVICES ASSOCIATION
RBC INSURANCE
|
|
Revised Carry-on Baggage Allowance for Flights from Canada to the U.S. effective April 8, 2010
Air Canada and Jazz advise passengers that following a Canadian federal government policy change affecting cabin baggage on flights to the U.S., Air Canada's standard carry-on baggage allowance will now apply for flights from Canada to the U.S. effective April 8, 2010.
Air Canada recommends that customers flying to the U.S. bring only limited baggage and respect the carry-on limits imposed by Canadian and U.S. authorities.
For details on permitted carry-on items please consult the Government of Canada’s “Update on Canadian Aviation Security Measures” at www.catsa.gc.ca
Effective May 1, onboard purchases (onboard cafe, bar, headsets and duty free) on all flights where Onboard Cafe is served, must be paid with credit card - cash will no longer be accepted.
|
|
The Skyservice charter airline filed for receivership and shut down its operations Wednesday, putting 860 employees out of work.
Citing debt levels and changes in the Canadian vacation travel market, the bankrupt company cancelled flights out of Toronto's Pearson airport Wednesday, "as well as all remaining flights scheduled to depart Canada during the balance of the season in April," the company said in a release.
The company flies on behalf of other tour operators from numerous Canadian airports to sun destinations across the Caribbean.
The company has cancelled all remaining outbound flights from Canada. No further flights were scheduled to leave out of numerous Canadian destinations anyway, now that the busy March Break travel season has passed in most regions — but many Skyservice passengers may not yet have completed their return legs.
"Skyservice Airlines and the receiver are committed to winding up the business in an orderly and responsible manner," a company release said. On Wednesday morning, an unnamed secured lender of the company appeared at the Ontario Superior Court of Justice to petition receivership for Skyservice, and a receiver has been assigned to handle the insolvency. The receiver will work with the company and other tour operators to resolve customer and employee issues "promptly."
The closure will result in the loss of 860 jobs. Former employees of the Montreal-based company have confirmed to the CBC that employees were all paid full wages and vacation pay before the shutdown. It's not yet clear what sort of impact the shutdown might have on fliers and consumers, but so far all sides are promising no one will be stranded.
Operating a fleet of 17 planes, Skyservice normally runs 25 flights a week out of Pearson airport in Toronto alone. Founded in 1986, Skyservice was acquired by Vancouver-based hedge fund Gibralt Capital Corp. in 2007.
Refunds possible
MasterCard Canada and Visa Inc. both issued statements Wednesday, reminding customers of their longstanding general policy to refund purchases for customers who do not receive the goods and services they paid for, such as any scheduled Skyservice flights.
Both companies advise customers to contact their card issuer with receipt and ticket information to begin the refund process.
|
|
Important notice
Given the tragic news concerning the earthquake that shook Haiti January 12, our suppliers would like to share the latest information regarding their destinations in Haiti’s neighbouring country, the Dominican Republic.
The tour operators are in contact with their teams in the Dominican Republic. No passengers or resorts have been affected by the natural disaster in Haiti. Airport and hotel infrastructures in the Dominican Republic’s tourist regions have not been touched by the incident and continue to function normally. Operations in the country are unchanged, with flights operating on their regular schedule.
The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center issued a tsunami alert, but this alert was later cancelled.
We will keep you apprised of further developments as more information becomes available.
January 18, 2010
|
|
New Lifetime Deposit policy lets passengers postpone trips indefinitely at no extra charge.
Toronto, December 3, 2009 - Understanding that travel plans change and sometimes need to be delayed, GAP Adventures has once again listened to traveller feedback and established an innovative new level of customer service and flexibility designed to ensure that travellers who need to cancel will be able to find another time to take their next, great life-changing adventure.
In an adventure-travel first, passengers forced to delay a departure will now retain their initial deposit with GAP Adventures for life. The no-questions-asked Lifetime Deposit policy allows passengers to save their initial deposits with GAP Adventures for use at a later date.
Under the new policy, deposits are also transferable. The original passenger may transfer that initial deposit to another traveller of their choosing at no additional charge. Those feeling generous can even donate their deposit to the non profit Planeterra Foundation - GAP Adventures will then match the value of the donation. For full details, call Dream Away Travel at 204.223.9886.
|
|
The U.S Transportation Security Administration [TSA] has introduced a Secure Flight Program which requires airlines to collect additional data on flights traveling to, from, or via the United States. This programs will eventually be expanded to include all routes which fly over the United States. As of November 10th, you will be asked to provide the following information:
1. Full names as they appear on government issued photo identification
2. Gender
3. Date of birth
Failure to provide this information could result in airport delays or denied boarding.
More Info: http://www.tsa.gov/what_we_do/layers/secureflight/index.shtm
|
|
Travel Insurance Coverage as a Result of H1N1
Frequently Asked Questions – November 2009
1. Can I cancel my trip because I am afraid of contracting H1N1 when travelling?
RBC Insurance® travel insurance products have been designed to provide a wide range of coverage for a variety of situations but “fear of travelling” is not covered under our travel insurance policies.
2. Can I cancel my trip because I have contracted H1N1 or a flu-like illness?
RBC Insurance trip cancellation insurance provides coverage for a wide variety of situations. Cancelling a trip as a result of contracting H1N1 or a flu-like illness would be considered an emergency medical condition and the policy holder would be eligible for the reimbursement of the non-refundable portion of their prepaid travel arrangements, subject to the terms and conditions of the policy. Quarantine resulting from H1N1 or a flu-like illness would also be covered. Confirmation of illness or quarantine from a physician is required.
Please note that the policy holder must have purchased appropriate travel insurance coverage prior to exhibiting any flu-like symptoms to be eligible for reimbursement.
3. Can I change my travel dates because I have contracted H1N1 or a flu-like illness?
RBC Insurance policy holders wishing to change their travel plans because they contracted H1N1 or a flu-like illness will be able to update their travel insurance for equivalent coverage, at no extra cost, to reflect their new travel dates provided that the length and cost of the trip remains the same.
4. If I contract H1N1 or a flu-like illness while travelling, will my travel insurance policy cover me?
RBC Insurance policy holders who contract H1N1 or a flu-like illness while travelling are eligible for medical coverage under our medical insurance policy, subject to the terms and conditions of the policy. If they are unable to travel home and have purchased the appropriate travel insurance coverage, trip interruption benefits can provide coverage for the costs of accommodations, meals and transportation.
Please note that if a written formal travel warning regarding H1N1 was issued by the Canadian government prior to the policy holder’s effective date of departure and they chose to travel to the affected country, region or city where they contracted H1N1, they would not be covered.
5. If I didn’t purchase travel insurance at the time I booked my trip, can I now purchase travel insurance because of my concerns of contracting H1N1?
RBC Insurance travel insurance can be sold at any time prior to the departure date.
Please note that the policy holder must have purchased appropriate travel insurance
coverage prior to exhibiting any flu-like symptoms to be eligible for reimbursement.
6. If I am unable to get the H1N1 vaccination due to line-ups or choose not to get the H1N1 vaccination before my travel date, can I cancel my trip because I am afraid to travel and get a flu-like illness?
RBC Insurance travel insurance products have been designed to provide a wide range of coverage for a variety of situations but “fear of travelling” is not covered under our travel insurance policies.
7. What happens if I am denied boarding at the airport as a result of exhibiting flu-like symptoms?
RBC Insurance policy holders who are denied boarding as a result of exhibiting flu-like symptoms are eligible for benefits, subject to the terms and conditions of the policy, as long as they receive confirmation from a physician that they contracted H1N1 or a flu-like illness.
Please note that the policy holder must have purchased appropriate travel insurance coverage prior to exhibiting any flu-like symptoms to be eligible for reimbursement.
8. What happens if I reach my destination and I am denied entry as a result of exhibiting flu-like symptoms?
RBC Insurance policy holders who reach their destination and are denied entry as a result of exhibiting flu-like symptoms are eligible for benefits, subject to the terms and conditions of the policy they purchased, as long as they receive confirmation from a physician that they contracted H1N1 or a flu-like illness.
Please note that the policy holder must have purchased appropriate travel insurance
coverage prior to exhibiting any flu-like symptoms to be eligible for reimbursement.
9. If I get the H1N1 vaccination and exhibit side effects before my travel date, can I cancel my trip?
RBC Insurance trip cancellation insurance provides coverage for a wide variety of situations. Cancelling a trip as a result of side effects to a vaccination would be considered an emergency medical condition and the policy holder would be eligible for the reimbursement of the non-refundable portion of their prepaid travel arrangements, subject to the terms and conditions of the policy. Confirmation of illness from a physician is required.
Please note that the policy holder must have purchased appropriate travel insurance
coverage prior to obtaining the H1N1 vaccination to be eligible for reimbursement.
10. If I get the H1N1 vaccination and exhibit side effects from the vaccination while travelling, am I covered?
RBC Insurance policy holders who exhibit side-effects while travelling are eligible for
medical coverage under our medical insurance policy, subject to the terms and conditions of the policy. If they are unable to travel home and have purchased the appropriate travel insurance coverage, trip interruption benefits can provide coverage for the costs of accommodations, meals and transportation.
Please note that if a written formal travel warning regarding H1N1 was issued by the
Canadian government prior to the policy holder’s effective date of departure and they chose to travel to the affected country, region or city where they contracted H1N1, they would not be covered.
11. If I get the H1N1 vaccination within the pre-existing condition exclusion period and I contract H1N1 while travelling, will I still be considered stable as defined in the policy?
RBC Insurance policy holders who have received the H1N1 vaccination or any preventative vaccination in the pre-existing condition exclusion period will still be considered stable provided that all other terms and conditions in the policy are met and as long as any other pre-existing medical conditions are stable.
12. Can I cancel my trip if a government warning is issued regarding H1N1 for a country, region or city I am travelling to?
RBC Insurance travel insurance products provide coverage for a wide variety of situations, including cancellation of a trip as a result of a travel warning. As long as a written formal travel warning is issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade of the Canadian government advising Canadians not to travel to a country, region or city, policy holders wanting to cancel their trip as a result of the travel warning are eligible for cancellation coverage under the appropriate RBC Insurance travel insurance policy.
Please note that the travel warning has to be issued by the Canadian government after the policy holder purchased travel insurance and has to be in effect on their departure date for the coverage to apply.
|
|
OFFICIAL WARNING: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against non-essential travel to Mexico, due to an outbreak of human swine influenza.
The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) is tracking an outbreak of human swine influenza (flu) with deaths in Mexico. Since March 18, 2009, clusters of cases have been reported in multiple regions in Mexico. Most of the cases involve previously healthy young adults between 25 and 44 years old. Some health care workers have also been affected. Mexico is currently experiencing a late influenza season that began in early March 2009. Canadians already in Mexico should monitor local news bulletins and follow the advice of local authorities. Travellers should also contact their airline, tour operator or travel agent to verify travel plans. T
he PHAC recommends that travellers follow the same precautionary measures as with seasonal influenza. These include receiving a seasonal flu vaccine, washing your hands often, covering coughs and sneezes, and staying home when ill. Canadians who have recently travelled to Mexico and who develop symptoms of influenza or severe respiratory illness, especially high fever are advised to seek medical attention immediately. For more information, please see the PHAC Travel Health Warning and information page on human swine influenza.
|
|
Will your travel plans take you across international borders? Here's what you'll need to get in.
Planning to travel to the U.S. in the near future? Remember this date: June 1, 2009. That's when the last phase of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) comes into effect and restrictions at the border will get even tighter.
After May 31, a birth certificate and driver's license won't be enough to get you into the U.S. at land and sea entry points. A Certificate of Indian Status or Certificate of Canadian Citizenship won't be accepted either. Instead, you'll have to present a WHTI-compliant document when you cross the border.
So what are your options? Passport Best for: People who plan to travel internationally. According to Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada (DFAIT) it's " the only reliable and universally accepted travel and identification document available to Canadians for the purpose of international travel. " In other words, if you've got a passport, you're set to travel just about anywhere -- including the U.S. Process: It starts by filling out paperwork, gathering your I.D., getting a photo and finding a friend or family member to serve as your guarantor. You can send in your application via courier registered mail, or submit it through a receiving agent (i.e. designated Canada Post outlet or Service Canada location). You can take your application to your local MP's office and have staff check it over and mail it for you. If you're worried about mailing your birth certificate -- or want to cut the waiting time in half -- you can go to the nearest Passport Canada office instead. Some provinces only have one or two, so expect some travel time.
Cost: The fees depends on size: 24 page passports cost $87 for adults, $37 for children ages 3 to 15, and $22 for children under 3. The cost for 48 page ones are slightly higher at $92, $39 and $24 respectively. Photos are extra, and there are additional fees for optional services like the $20 fee for Canada Post Receiving Agents, or "Express" or "Urgent" processing service ($30 and $70). Beware: If you don't have one yet -- or need a renewal -- do it now. Last time US entry requirements changed there were nasty backlogs of several weeks at application centres on both sides of the border. Hopefully, passport offices will be better prepared this time but the only way to avoid trouble is to apply or renew well in advances. Even at the best of times, passports can take two to four weeks to arrive. (Current processing times are posted here). For more information and forms, see www.voyage.gc.ca.
|
|
Announcement
Wednesday, April 15, 2009 Conquest Vacations Inc. announced today the cessation of its tour operations effective immediately.
Customers who are booked and paid using cash/check through a travel agency are requested to contact their respective agency who will assist you with respect to a refund or claim.
Customers who have booked and paid for their future travel using a credit card, should contact their credit card issuing institution for a refund.
Conquest Vacations regrets the inconvenience caused to the passengers due to cessation of its operations. Unfortunately this has been a result of overcapacity and price war among the major tour operators, unrealistic and unreasonable demands by the credit card processing companies, credit squeeze and economic turmoil in recent months making it impossible for companies like Conquest to continue in business even after weathering many storms over the past 37 years.
|
|
David planned a trip from Ontario to Clearwater, Florida. Unfortunately, just three days into his trip, he suffered severe abdominal pains. He was rushed to a hospital, where he received surgery for appendicitis and was then transferred to a local hospital for additional care. After five days, David was able to travel home. The total cost of his claim was $33,243.38. His government health insurance plan covered $3,047.89, his insurance travel policy covered the rest.
Case after case continues to underline the need to purchase travel insurance for any trip outside your home province, what ever the destination and however brief the trip may be.
Without that valuable insurance, wisely purchased before leaving home, David would have faced crippling expenditures. Despite this example, a recent survey showed more than 26% say they have never taken out travel insurance for travelling outside North America.
The survey further showed that 39% of respondants say that they don't buy special insurance because they are covered at work and another 20% refuse because they are covered by a credit card.
People who do not buy travel insurance for any of those reasons may well be travelling under a false sense of security. Government health plans, and even some employee health plans, may not be in full effect when travelling outside the home province.
It's important to understand the limitations of these coverages and fill in the gaps. It's also important to remember that health insurance plans often don't offer insurance benefits such as baggage and personal effects, flight and travel accident, and cancellation and interuption insurance.
So...if you are planning to rely on this type of coverage, check the following:
-Is there a deductible and is it an amount acceptable to you?
-Will medical expenses be paid up front? If not, do you have the cash or credit card limit to meet the cost?
-Does coverage included air ambulance transfer home, with a private nurse?
-Is there an emergency phone line staffed by multi-lingual staff which can be used from where you are traveling?
It is amazing that people will spend hour after hour choosing the right destination, the right hotel and the right tour to meet their travel needs but often spend so little time considering travel insurance.
|
|
Air Canada Vacations is taking the growing Gay and Lesbian Market into their mainstream product line-up. Phase 1 of the launch is working with their existing partners. Phase 2 is expected to roll out with new partnership and relationships for gay and lesbians. Have a look at their new micro website below and call me to confirm your booking or to get your travel advice! More Info: http://www.aircanadavacations.com/en/ideas/activities/interests/Gay-and-lesbian-travel
|
|
WestJet will soon offer passengers a new pillow and blanket kit which, for a small fee, will help “enrich their travel experience.” Starting Dec. 1, pillow and blanket kits -- complete with a travel pillow, fleece blanket and convenient carry bag -- will be available for purchase on all WestJet flights.
According to officials, the ability to purchase a pillow and blanket kit will offer guests the peace of mind that comes from knowing that both the pillow and blanket are brand new, allergen-free, breathable and washable, and can be used over and over again. The comfort kit will cost $7 in flight, and also includes a $5 coupon that can be used towards the purchase of a CleanBrands product through their online web site. Reusable blankets will still be available on all WestJet flights for guests to use at no charge. (http://www.westjet.com)
Source: Travel Press Daily
|
|
A big factor in booking via the web or through a travel agent is price. You can get a better price for a trip if you do the research and make the booking yourself. Right? Not necessarily. In one recent survey, the results found that agents found better prices for airlines fare 96.3 per cent of the time, with an average savings of about $80 per ticket. The victor here? The consumer. And when it comes to the battle of agents versus the web, the result is the same. Consumers have the choice of who will handle their travel arrangements. And that’s a good thing.
*****
A great travel consultant is like a great hairdresser or mechanic. Once you find one you like, you will follow them anywhere. There are some things that many of us will not compromise on and travel is absolutely one of those things. If you are an experience traveller, or this is your first time leaving home...you want to be sure it is the trip you want or even better than expected. As your travel consultant, we spend the time to make sure that you get exactly what you want, with no surprises. We have no hidden fees, you will be told upfront what you are paying and believe honestly is the best policy. We continually educate ourselves throughout the year by attending training seminars with our preferred suppliers and we build strong relationships with those suppliers. So, if you should require any pre or post travel assistance, then you are their highest priority. Dream Away Travel TPI is independantly owned and operated and we are available 7 days a week either by email or phone. We have no quotas to meet and will treat every inquiry with the same quality, whether it be an around the world cruise or a one way flight with Westjet. We value you as our customers and hope that you will tell everyone you know about our service. The best compliment we can receive is your referral.
We want to be your travel consultant.
|
|
More visitors came to Israel in 2008 than in any year since the independent State of Israel was founded in 1948. "This is the first time ever more than 3 million tourists came to Israel in a single year," said Arie Sommer, Israel's Tourism Commissioner for North and South America, "and this underscores Israel's attractiveness to travelers of all nationalities, faiths, ethnic backgrounds and interests." The United States is Israel's number one source of tourism, with the United Kingdom, Russia and France the runners-up.
|
|
Effective December 15th, all Skyservice Airline check-in counters will now be closing 60 minutes prior to flight departure time.
All passengers travelling onboard Skyservice are required to be at the airport 3 hours prior to flight departure time.
|
|
Dec 4, 2008 - Security measures have been increased at all major airports in India. We recommend that passengers arrive at the airport 3 hours prior to travel as security checks are longer than normal.
Nov 30, 2008 - The siege has ended and police regain control of Mumbai. Authorities continue their investigations on this week's attacks.
Nov 26, 2008 - There have been several shootings today in Mumbai, India. Seven tourist sites including train stations, restaurantes and two 5 star hotels have been affected. Initial reports advise that 78 people have been killed and many more injured.
Continue to monitor this page for updates...
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
