Friday, June 13, 2008

Make the Most Out of Traveling With Insurance

If you’re fond of going to adventure trips and taking risks, better take with you a travel insurance. You might as well find a travel insurance suited for adventurous trips. For risky trips, injury can be a common scenario especially if you are not careful. It is much better to take out on single trip policies during holiday adventures and it’s best to ensure that you are covered against a lot factors associated with your activity of choice. There are many companies that have specialized insurance packages best suited for thrill seekers of all ages and abilities. It may be quite expensive but it will be worth your money to save you from any kinds of hassle and financial trouble that can happen during adventure holidays.

There is a 1.4 percent growth in the insurance market because of increase in daily travels. Reasons for the travel raise is the increasing number of cheap airfare, more people that travels to see family and friends abroad and people demanding for more vacations. According to survey, many of us will take more than one holiday a year and 11 percent of traveler population will take 5 or more breaks in a year. With this, annual travel insurance makes sense because it will cover you for an unlimited number of trips. It could also be a good choice if you are planning to take two trips in a year which is cheaper than two single trips. And once you have the annual policy, you don’t have to worry about travel insurance until the next year.

When you buy a trip cancellation travel insurance, you better be sure that the travel insurance pays your claim. So to have it processed immediately and correctly, you ought to follow certain requirements and be aware of every detail in your insurance policy. If ever you get injured in your holiday trip or you get sick for example, for the insurance company to cover you, you should also show them a medical certificate. Everything should be recorded and be ensured. Even receipts for the things you purchase should be kept because you are not sure what can happen next, everything should be recorded because insurance company has certain policies for this as well. You have to keep the copies of your documents before submitting your claim forms.

Fraud in a travel insurance policy is when you lie and exaggerate necessary information for the benefit of having bigger coverage or reimbursing expenses or smaller expenses. But all these can lead to serious matters and big amount of consequences like financial and insurance penalties. You should always be exact when you are being asked of certain information or details, no more, no less. Do not falsify and never exaggerate because not only will it bring you drawbacks but it will also affect all the travel insurance policy holders. You have to be aware of every step you take and the consequences your action can cause you especially in claiming or reimbursing fees.

For children, there are certain companies that offers insurance policy along when you buy policy for accompanying adults. But make sure the small print matches the requirements you need. The travel insurance plan for children normally have age limits and almost all companies offer children insurance only up to 18 years old. And there is also such a thing as annual children’s travel insurance that gives children insurance coverage as they travel alone and independently. The insurance company may put an additional premium for annual children’s travel insurance but it may be the best solution if your children travel independently.

Learn the Facts of Travel Insurance Policies

When one is purchasing travel insurance or any other form of insurance as a matter of fact, get down to the basics and do a little background check on the firm outright. The “About Us” tab usually has enough information to get to know them a bit better than you do and if you find inconsistencies, you can always check with the local trade office or insurance regulatory body to see if the firm is a reputable and registered member. Ask around or check out the testimonial pages to see if there are a lot of satisfied customers. Many of these online firms have affiliation with other insurance firms and groups so check them out too. Remember, when in doubt, better trust your instinct for as they say, “If it smells bad, its probably rotten.”

Keep all receipts and logs of all calls placed tot he provider so you could quote past conversations when having to call again and again. It also allows you to keep track of the progress or lack thereof allowing you to take action when needed. If sickness is the reason for your cancellation, get checked by a doctor at obtain a certification as proof of your sickness. Attach the certification to your claim as proof of your sickness solidifying the reason for your claim. A mere verbal or written claim without certification form a physician can have the provider questioning the validity of your claim. As stated in most trip cancellation policies,

Your provider should also have provisions that include local multi-lingual support allowing you to get support wherever you may be in the world allowing you to file and claim from abroad should it be necessary. With these simple tips, filing for trip cancellations becomes easier and allows faster processing times in the event of the need to use your Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance.

Trip cancellation/Interruption insurance sounds straightforward yet without knowledge in how they work may give you a hard time when it comes to filing claims. Here are some tips that can help lessen the time and disruption to your schedule should you need to file a claim for trip cancellation. First, keep a copy of all documents submitted to the insurance company so any excuses that some or all of the claim’s supporting documents can be verified by you and the provider. Photocopies are better and more presentable rather than handwriting. Next, attach a claims letter that specifies clearly the reason for your cancellation making it straightforward and easy to understand.

Many people fail to realize that most credit cards and health insurance packages already have some form of travel insurance that results is dual coverage and in the end wasted money on double coverage. Verify with your providers so you can use them and apply add-on options with the same providers should they offer them. This makes claims processing easier and faster for you have to deal with one provider rather than two in case of emergencies. If you happened to purchase your vacation package with your credit card, these card companies often include travel insurance free as part of their tie-up’s with travel insurance agents and firms.

UK Travelers would be getting better coverage from travel insurance providers that have been getting rising complaints in recent years due to problems associated with claims processing. The industry has long been fighting regulation by the government saying they are doing just fine on their own. Due to actions of some unscrupulous travel insurance providers that offer ever cheaper packages that don’t stand up to obligations when claims are in the works has prompted due to increasing public outcry to deal with such incidents. The industry has been regulated among all providers but competitiveness has brought about several incidents of fraudulent policies those results in mediation or arbitration. Arbitration is also self-regulated with many saying that it would be as good as saying goodbye to your claims. Further changes are to be implemented along with the new regulation rules regarding all aspects of the industry such as travel agents. Travel insurance used to be offered by specific providers who specialize in the said area yet many problems continue to plague them due to lack of overall understanding of insurance basics

Be Safe and Insured Wherever You Are

So you think having an old age is a big hindrance to your dream of going to your dream country? Think again.

In senior coverage policy, our health has a lot to contribute on determining how much should you pay for the senior travel coverage policy. If you are perfectly healthy despite your old age, you are qualified in getting a cheaper senior travel insurance policy. It is important that you take time to differentiate each policy from different companies and make sure that your choice of plan is the best price that is available in the market. If you are good in researching online or in the papers, you will surely get the best deals ever.

A lot of people love to travel because the opportunity of seeing new things excites them. The reality of not knowing what happens next also contributes to making us feel so excited especially when we are young travelers exploring other traditions and culture of foreign countries.

As we grow older, traveling becomes a bit scary. We worry on the possibilities that things may go wrong and we may not able to survive from it. The medical condition is also a big factor that’s why majority would rather lay in bed to rest than to go out and see the beauty of the world.

A number of factors can determine the total cost of your insurance premium. One of the important factors that you have to consider is the travel guard that you might need in traveling. The coverage deductible, the schedule of paying your premiums and your age are big factors in determining the amount of your student travel insurance premium.

In selecting a plan, it is important that you chose the plan that covers what you really need only. Every plan is different from one another in terms of amount because they vary in coverage.

Nowadays, every insurance company makes an effort to provide the best plans for students in their official website complete with the policies and rates. Contact details are posted too.

Before getting a student travel insurance, you have to know that some offer the travel cost only. Some also include medical coverage but you have to pay an extra fee. Everything depends on how much can you pay. Holiday insurance plans include other coverage such as lost baggage and canceled flights. Other benefits are also offered like theft restitution and reimbursement.

Read your student insurance policy carefully and check if the plan covers the important factors to be covered. See if uncontrollable events like terrorist attacks and natural disasters. Usually, special health expense payments and special lodging benefits will be awarded to you because you are present in these events.

You must keep in mind that when you are traveling using a student insurance, it will have a different benefit and exclusion so don’t expect it to have the same with your parents. It is important that you identify the right plan that can cover the things that need to be covered. You must buy an international insurance plan if you are residing outside Canada or United states.

Students purchasing a regular student travel insurance needs to pay a monthly insurance premium and provide a deductible. Most of these plans cover a medical portion which means that a co-payment will be possibly included.

Movie Lovers, Enjoy Your Visit To Universal Studios

If you are fascinated by the movies and made-in-Hollywood films then a visit to the Universal Studios theme park in Orlando Florida is the golden opportunity to go on thrilling rides based on your favorite movies and to get behind the scenes and see how movies are actually made.

There is a lot on offer at Universal Studios so here is a brief guide to what you can enjoy there.

The first stop for film and movie buffs is probably the Production Central area of Universal Studios. You will find it just beyond the front gates it is a real working film and television production studio. If you are fan of the Shrek series, then be sure to take in the Shek 4D feature. Despite the name it is actually a 3D film, produced in “Ogrevision” and has the standard Shrek cast of Shrek, Princess Fiona, Donkey and Prince Charming.

Universal also combines standard roller coasters with film themes. An example of this is the Revenge of the Mummy ride. The Universal Studios website describes it as follows: “Plunge into total darkness as you face fireballs, scarab beetles, and an army of warrior mummies on a psychological thrill ride totally unlike anything that's come along in the past 3,000 years!” If that sounds attractive, then be sure to get on this ride.

If you are a science fiction fan then Universal Studios is the right place for you. The Terminator series was a scary look at the near future and the Terminator attraction at Universal Studios and the Terminator 2: 3-D Battle Across Time is sure to thrill fans of the film series. Universal claims that is one of most technologically advanced of theme park rides, on this planet.

Speaking about planets, would you like to help the Men in Black protect the Earth from alien threats? If so then do not miss the Men in Black Alien Attack ride. Universal created 120 creepy alien “species” for this attraction, and you get to ride in a six-passenger vehicle that is “armed” with laser guns. When you get in the vehicle you will chase the aliens through the streets of New York City and it is up to you to protect the planet by zapping the aliens.

One of the biggest blockbuster hits of Universal Studios in Hollywood was Jaws, and in Orlando Jaws is brought back to life in a thrilling ride. You get to face the three-ton monster in a flimsy boat and it is sure to get your adrenaline pumping.

There is of course, lighter entertainment at Universal including plenty of outdoors shows. The Blues Brothers Show and the tribute to comedy queen Lucille Ball are two very popular attractions at the park. And if you are looking for entertainment, then be sure to stay around for the night clubs, restaurants and concerts at the CityWalk area of this theme park. CityWalk combines dining, shopping and entertainment venues all in a compact and fascinating “downtown” area adjacent to the other attractions of the park.

Spring Break Trips - Cheap Packages For 2009

Spring break trips are a must for college students. Everyone in high school needs to experience prom, and every college student must experience spring break. It's not only a tradition, but one of the most memorable elements of college life.
The problem is that most students are on a tight budget. How do you go on spring break and save a few dollars at the same time? There are many packages out there to choose from and it can get confusing at times.
First, try to eliminate spring break packages that include airfare. They typically inflate the price of the trip considerably. Obviously, it's impossible to eliminate airfare if you are traveling to a destination overseas that is many miles away. If you have decided on a spring break destination like this, then you have probably already excepted the fact that you will be paying at least a thousand dollars for your spring break vacation. This would include trips to the U.S. Virgin Islands, Turks and Caicos, and islands in the Caribbean well below the Bahamas. Please note: There are many Bahama cruises that depart from Florida. You do not need to take a plane to this spring break destination.
Second, try to pick a package that includes inexpensive hotels. You don't need to stay in a dump, but there are many very nice hotels for those on a budget. Also, it's important to remember that the main concentration of spring breakers will be in three star mid-range hotels.
A little extra time spent researching the best options can guarantee you the best spring break 2009 possible.
Almost every spring break destination offers rental homes and villas for spring break trips. College students hardly ever consider this option. One reason for this is a lack of advertising on behalf of those individuals renting their homes. We see many spring break ads that include hotel accommodations in a four or seven night package, but they usually do not include a rental home, town house, or vila.
Yes it's true most home owners would not allow groups of loud and rowdy college students in their homes for four or seven nights each week in March. There are, however, many that do allow spring breakers during March. Most rental homes are more expensive than your typical hotel room due to the fact that they have more square feet among other things. This would normally be one of the main reasons students do not add them to their packages. This is not as big of a factor during spring break because many college students will be sharing the same unit. This cuts the price down significantly and allows them to have a much more private and spacious area in which to spend their spring break vacation.
Their is always on thing to consider with any package. You are not going to be with all the other spring break students if you rent a house or villa. Chances are your typical spring breaker will be in a hotel.
When you begin thinking about the best destinations for spring break 2009 consider the above. It's only an option, but an option that you probably have not thought of before.

Summer Beach Tips to Keep Your Family Comfortable and Safe

When I was 16, it was June and we had just moved to Florida. I was so excited I could picture that golden tan I was going to get. I remember distinctly my father's words as we headed off to the beach with our towels and radio in search of the perfect tan. "Be careful this Florida sun is stronger than you're used to, you need to have something on with at least an SPF of 15 at all times, 30 is better but I'll be realistic, and reapply it often." We rolled our eyes as we left but took the bottle he held out to us. Guess what; it turns out he was right. The first time I was ever consciously aware of the heat from the Florida sun was years later. Fast forward to ten summers; I was on a plane heading home to Central Florida from New York, sitting in a window seat with my arm resting on the window 'sill'. I was wondering how much longer to Orlando when the pilot came on telling us to look out the window to see Cape Canaveral, it was also at that moment I noticed that my arm, still on the sill, had gotten considerably warmer. The truth is that much of Florida's climate is considered sub tropic so the sun is stronger here than the rest of most of America.
Here are some of the best tips to remember when headed to the beach this summer:
First of all follow a doctors advice - Use Sunscreen. They have everything from SPF 2 to SPF 60 but what does SPF mean and what does it do? SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor and is calculate in minutes - the number of minutes it takes unprotected skin to turn red compared to protected skin. You get 10 minutes for every number meaning an SPF of 2 gives you twenty minutes of protection in the sun before fair skin starts to turn red, if you have darker skin it varies.
Always make sure children are well covered, they have sunscreens made specifically for kids that now come in convenient sprays so you can get it on them quick and let their squirming bodies go play in the sand. For the rest of us protection still comes in lotions, oils and gels, there are even lighter versions for your face and ones that protect your skin from the UV rays too. When applying sun protection let common sense rule, reapply it after you've been swimming or if you've been sweating, like after playing volleyball. When you start to feel your skin getting hot cover up or it may even be time to go in. A good hat will also keep the sun off your face.
Another wonderful shade provider can be Umbrellas. They are popping up more and more on the beaches these days, they come in all shapes and sizes and are very useful in keeping the sun off of you. They are great for families with small children and for people who like being on the beach but don't want to get much, if any sun.
Beach chairs are also making a comeback, again in all shapes and sizes, some come with carrying cases and umbrellas attached, you can even get ones with cup holders and foot rests if you'd like to really stretch out without being in the sand. They have short ones that sit right in the surf sand and ones that are taller and better in the looser sand more up shore.
Many Florida beaches have lifeguards on duty, if you have small children with you it is recommended that you take advantage of this service and frequent these beaches. Lifeguards stations are dotted along the beaches and easy to spot because a lot of them are brightly colored. Lifeguards are trained in CPR, basic first ad and normally have a direct line to police and emergency services. What if you go to a beach that doesn't have a lifeguard and find yourself in an emergency situation? Fortunately in this day and age there are people with cell phones everywhere but you should always carry some small first aid kit with you or at least in your car and know where the nearest help is located.
Two of the most common emergencies on our beaches seem to be jellyfish stings and rip currents. You can tell when you've been stung by a jellyfish because the affected area will start to burn or will become itchy, it can turn red and may swell up or get bumpy. Seeking medical evaluation is preferable depending on the severity of the sting but if none is readily available there are things you can do. First of all remove all tentacles that you can see but be sure to protect yourself from getting stung while doing this, also don't rinse the area with fresh water, this may release more toxins and cause a further reaction on the area, use salt water or don't rinse at all. White vinegar will help decrease symptoms too, it is also recommended that the person be given either acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain, barring any allergies, always be sure to ask about allergies. Immobilize the area to keep the toxin from spreading and keep the person as still as possible. Have them sit or lie down until help arrives or help them to a waiting car for transport to further medical care.
Rip currents are, unfortunately, somewhat common in this area. Rip currents, simply defined are areas of water rushing back out to sea from the shore and are especially prevalent on windy days. The best way to free yourself from a rip current is to swim parallel to the shore. The worst thing you can do should you find yourself trapped in a rip current is panic, this uses up your breath and can cause you to drown. Remain calm and, if there is one near, try to get the attention of a lifeguard. If there is no lifeguard near swim along the shore until you feel the pull is gone, keeping in mind you can escape so try not to panic.
Ever go to a beach and see one of those little colored flags flying? Hopefully you have. These flags are meant to be a way for swimmers to know what, if anything, is going on in the water so even if you go to Florida beaches that doesn't have a lifeguard you can still be safe in the water. Here are the colors commonly used and what they generally mean:
Green - Conditions are favorable for swimming, low hazardYellow - Medium HazardRed - High HazardPurple - Marine pests presentRed Over Red - DANGER. Water closed to public use
When you get to the beach, if there is a hazard flag flying and a lifeguard nearby, you can ask for more details.
So go, enjoy the beach, and be safe out there.